The expression "you'll know it when you see it" is certainly apt when it comes to quality garden tools. You may not be able to describe the materials or the construction methods used in the creation of the tool but you would definitely know instinctively if it was of superior value and craftsmanship. The crap tools are easy to identify by the identifiable seams, obvious welding work and inferior materials like plastic and thin sheet metal.
So do you know what to look for when it comes to shopping for quality garden tools to use in the maintenance of your home and yard? The answer boils down to the materials used in its construction as well as how well it is put together.
Testing your Metal
Many quality garden tools have metal parts and it is the type of metal used which drives the price as well as quality of the product. For example, tools mass produced and marketed by discount mass merchandise stores and even popular home improvement stores may carry tools with tubular or stamped steel. This basically boils down to the cheapest construction possible and often this metal is painted on with an epoxy to supposedly protect it from rusting. The only problem is, the paint easily chips off exposing the metal to the elements and will therefore rust.
What you should really look for in quality garden tools is forged steel, particularly stainless steel that has been polished. While this type of material will be almost twice as expensive, you can count on any tool made from this stainless steel to be corrosive resistant and last for a lifetime. Of course, stainless steel alone will not make a quality tool as the construction is just as important.
Construction
Quality garden tools made with stainless steel is a good thing and what is even better is when good craftsmanship is used in its construction. The metal of the tool should wrap around the handle part all the way with proper coverage of course provided by a wooden handle or even fiberglass. A direct bolt to the handle using forged metal is another way to ensure that construction is solid and will last for your lifetime.
Next, you want to get a feel for quality garden tools in terms of their balance and weight in your hand. The best tool in the world will do you no good if it becomes too heavy to lift part way through your task. Easy of maintenance, storage and how well they clean up are additional items of consideration when choosing quality garden tools. All in all though how long the tool lasts as well as how well it gets the job done is the true testament to quality garden tools.