I used to really like Northern though there's not one close to me, I usually stop in when I am near one but I have definitely seen a decline in the last decade and don't make much effort anymore. The greatest thing about HF is the warranty when it comes to hand tools. I don't do the kind of wrenching that demands "tool truck" quality (nor do a lot of people that own nothing but that but it's their money), so being able to walk into my store that's 8 miles away with a broken tool and walk out with a replacement like the good old days of sears craftsman probably weighs heaviest in my decision to buy their tools. I've probably spent a couple grand in hand tools over the last 6-8? years there and only had one need for a return, so I'd say that math is pretty good. I'm using them too, not slugging on them with hammers but I'm not bolting together 2x4s, either. My boxes are probably 75% HF and a few Gearwrench, and the other 25% Craftsman, blackhawk, and proto, the latter 3 all a minimum of 20+ years old or more.