Written by Chris Rodenius | 19 April 2008

In this article, I will talk about the best way to go about shopping for any type of power tool(this will probably even work for just about anything you would want to buy online). If you are shopping for a new power tool, then you probably are in need of said tool, and you should therefore have some idea of what type of tool you are looking for.

1. The first thing you should do is get a piece of paper, so you can make a list.
2. Now you want to come up with a budget. Once you have a maximum price set, you should write it down and stick with it. The last thing you want to do is go out looking for a $50 tool and come home to an angry wife after you spent $200.
3. Write down what you expect out of the tool in order of importance. You might only be able to get half the features you want, to stay within your price range. This is where you will have to compromise on features, or you will have to increase your budget.
4. Its time for research. You obviously have access to the Internet if you are reading this, so now is the time to visit all the manufactures websites. Find the tools you are looking for, make sure they have the features you need, then write down the model numbers. You might even find out a tool has other features you didn't think you needed.
5. Go to Amazon and check the model numbers to see if they are within your price range. Amazon might not be the lowest price, but they will give you a good idea on what the tool is going for. Adjust your list of tools.
6. Here is where I come in. Read other peoples reviews. If its not on Tool-Rank.com , then do a search on the Internet, its not hard. In the search box type "manufacture, model number, review" and hit enter. Ex. "Makita BHR240 review" Read as many reviews as possible. Now its up to you to make some judgement calls. Adjust your tool list again.
7. Lets go shopping. Always remember, if something looks to good to be true, it probably is. If you find a tool online that is way under priced, go to resellerratings.com and do a search on the website. There, you will find a review on the online store. A lot of times stores will lead you to believe that you are buying a complete tool package, but then try to sell you the accessories that should have already been included. I like to stick with well known online tool stores like Amazon, ToolBarn, Rockler , etc. They are not always the lowest, but they are reliable. STOP. Don't buy anything yet.
8. We need coupons. Head over to the deals forums , and see if we have any coupons or deals on the tools you are looking for. You might even find a rebate for a free tool with purchase. My local tool store has a 20% off sale twice a year, so I try to save all my tool purchases for then. If you don't need the tool right away, wait and try to find a deal.
9. Take you list of tools, find the best deal you can possibly find, then buy. Just don't buy the whole list. :)
10. Now that you own your new tool, be sure to test it out for a while, then submit your review. This is how you can make Tool-Rank.com a better place.