Are Stewmac Tools Overpriced?

When it comes to Stewmac guitar tools, you get what you pay for. Unfortunately, it can be hard to know what that is. In this video, I try to break it down. Help support this channel and get something in return. Visit www.eguitarplan... and buy a guitar or tool plan.

[@asterisk606]

I think a few of the generic tools and hardware are definitely highly priced, because they know people will pay it, but I think their custom tools and jigs are fair enough because of the reasons you described. You look at another top luthier supply company in Crimson Guitars, and they have equally as good, if not better in certain cases (like the fret spacing rulers), tools than Stew Mac but still at a lower price including shipping from the UK and the difference used to be even more pronounced before Crimson did sweeping price increases a few months ago. 8" levelling beam StewMac: $60 shipped 8" levelling beam Crimson:

[@cool555breeze]

My dad bought a new impact wrench in '73 for $300 ($1,839 in 2021). I asked him why he would spend so much money for an air wrench, when you could have bought one from Sears for less than $50. He said he would never have to buy another one. As of last year (2020), it was still in use!

[@laurendelosreyes9615]

Mostly yes. Especially if you factor in the shipping prices.

[@IGLESIASVEGA]

Yes, yes they are. Roll credits.

[@stevewilliams846]

And a serious butt rape for shipping.

[@troybradley8647]

They are not too bad with 50 dollars for a year of free international shipping they save time and are guaranteed accurate personally I love stewmac but will save money on tools where accuracy is not as important such as screwdrivers and bits

[@Caballeroscuro78]

But what about the tools that aren't specifically for luthiers? Such as a caliper, a good quality one is around $40 , the stewmac's $62.95. Feeler gauges $5 to $12 average price, stewmac's $ 23.97. 🤭. I bet all is good quality but come on.

[@ashscott6068]

But those are GUITAR calipers. You know, because there's a guitar on the packaging

[@melodicdreamer72]

@@ashscott6068 You're not going to get through to Marco. He seems like the guy I was trying to explain why I turn my amp to 11 just the other day. He just isn't going to get it.

[@juliachild9377]

StewMac calipers are definitely overpriced; they're also super-cheap caca.

[@walterhambrick8705]

I used to be an automotive technician. Your analogy comparing Stew Mac to Snap On is spot on. What guitar users want is the price of Craftsman tools and want Snap On quality. It will never be. You do get what you pay for.

[@gutsrage9616]

Thank you someone gets it

[@williambartholomew5680]

Snap-On quality is hit and miss, can't go wrong with any of their sockets but screwdrivers seem to be really problematic. And their warranty system is truly dreadful - you have to hunt down one of the guys in the delivery trucks (which is a huge task in itself unless they regularly visit you at a mere once per month) and once you do you have to convince them to do a warranty exchange like it comes out of their wage. Versus Craftsman where should you break or wear out a tool (even if used not for its ontented purpose) you get a new one from any store dealer like Ace Hardware really quick and hassle free besides driving to the local hardware store. My other shot at companies like Snap-On is they get too bent up on "strength" so all their tools are far more bulky than they need to be. A 1/2" combination/box wrench doesn't need to be 3/8" thick with a 1" diameter head, can't access the tight spots Craftsman & Pittsburgh can at the cost of having unnecessary strength - that 1/2" open wrench does NOT need to hold up to 180ftlbs because that exceeds the fastener's ability lol

[@JasonTHutchinson]

StewMac is one of many luthier suppliers. My advice is to shop around and make an informed decision before purchasing from them. Many of the tools they sell can be purchased just about anywhere else. And no, don't be scared that the quality is going to be bad just because it doesn't have Stewart MacDonald stamped on it.

[@ScutMonkey]

Don't be scared, but be aware that it is frequently the case that cheaper tools are cheaper for a reason. The stuff I've gotten off Amazon just because it's cheap is almost universally garbage.

[@JasonTHutchinson]

@@ScutMonkey Exactly, that's why I say to make an informed decision when buying tools. Many of the StewMac tools are just a gimmick.

[@lyndelguitars9478]

I'm pretty much the hobbyist type you mentioned in the beginning of your video. I work on one or two guitars a month and build maybe 4 or 5 guitars a year. And it's all just for fun. That being said, I pretty much agree with what you had to say about Stew Mac. You do get what you pay for and their specialized luthier tools make life so much easier and I suspect will last much longer than knock offs. I have found in my 60 years of life that trying to save money in the short term often costs you more in the long term. I do buy standard tools locally for example a reamer as things like that do just fine for the times you need them. As for shipping, I do their yearly membership program (I think it's around $40 per year) and as much as I buy from them, it's well worth it. Kind of like Amazon Prime. Anyway, great video!

[@sihall1975]

It's interesting reading the comments. a lot of people seem to think to think they're overpriced but I'm inclined to agree with you, particularly the tools they've developed and made themselves. That said, they do charge a lot for general woodworking tools that you can buy elsewhere for much less money. It's a bit like wood. If you don't buy it from a specialist luthier supplier, it's generally much cheaper. as soon as it's 'guitar' wood, the price goes up!

[@gtr1952]

I've spent a lot of $$ on 'specialized tools' at SM over the years. The best kept secret is flea markets, antique thingies and such. I have a large collection of antique tools that are far better than anything off the shelf today! They may need a little referb and/or repair, but are very good value for not much $$. JMHO --gary

[@patsox2004]

He's not talking about general woodworking tools. Those wre convenience items for those that don't have and are too lazy to shop.

[@sihall1975]

@@patsox2004 yeah, that's my point. Glad you agree

[@naegleriafowleri2230]

even those are overpriced plus shipping is retarded

[@homebuiltshop]

I completely agree with you. They are very pricey overall, but I've never purchased a tool from them that I didn't appreciate the quality and usefulness. If you do very much guitar work, their tools tools are totally worth the price. I too prefer double sided tape to the CA method. Its a handy trick if you don't have the double sided tape but I try not to run out of double sided tape. Great video and well said.

[@juliachild9377]

So if you knew that StewMac was charging a markup of let's say 85%, you wouldn't care because you like the quality? Selling quality goods doesn't give a retailer a license to price gouge.

[@gutsrage9616]

@@juliachild9377 isn't that the typical markup for everything we buy 🧐

[@TheJeffcurran]

Your Snap-On/Matco analogy is spot on. I work on guitars, and I spent many years working in car shops. Tools make the difference. By the way, I bought your Green Dragon guitar a few years back.

[@HighlineGuitars]

I remember the Green Dragon. Do you still have it?

[@eworcustomguitars]

I agree that tools and other supplies from stew Mac are expensive but everything I’ve ever bought from them has been of excellent quality

[@lesscobrandeau2451]

For a hobbyist type, I can hardly ever / never "ju$tify" any SM purchase. For people who are more on the pro / do it for a living types it is a must. I would love some good tools but I make do pretty well as needed.

[@mattliebenau9083]

Chris, I agree. I have no issue using “other” tools but I have tried some Amazon tools that were, at best, iffy. Any StewMac tools I have are lifetime tools and the rare times there was an issue they’ve taken care of it, no questions asked.

[@leibama59]

Right, when they are in stock they will send you another one. Waiting months for replacements currently

[@samstone562]

I wish Stewmac would start a “prosumer” line of tools for folks who are not luthiers but need to work on their own instruments. I don’t need SnapOn quality for my personal guitars, but do need the tools.

[@RC-xi1xb]

Like my luthier instructor told me; “StewMac has done all the homework for you!” I have a lot of StewMac tools and everyone has functioned as designed!

[@ronmorey3475]

For precision and measuring tools, I try to always go with Stew Mac. I’ve never felt disappointed in their quality. Their Z Files are the best!. For the more primitive, less precision tools (I.e. hammers, arbor press, vises, etc.), I usually go to Harbor Freight and/or modify what I already have.

[@troybradley8647]

You hit that one right on the fret bro.

[@jatna77]

It is their shipping that is brutally high for someone who only buys a few tools from them, once every few years.

[@michael_caz_nyc]

I just purchased their Rough Fret Smooth + Shine Set (Jan 2022). I did 2 of my guitars and my bass in 2 hrs = they all feel like Custom Shop and play like butter - so for me, it's worth it.

[@HighlineGuitars]

Very nice!

[@Iazzaboyce]

The 'StewMac luthier refuse sacks' are a bit pricey - but you can use them at home too.

[@markdayneowalla]

One of their products that didn't live up to expectation is their Dremel router base. I threw mine away after it gouged deep scratches in the back of an instrument I was routing a binding channel on. The screws holding the thing together loosened from the vibration of the Dremel. Worse than useless. On the other hand, I bought their curved brace carving chisel in like... 2003 and it is still one of my most used chisels. A fine quality tool, worth every penny.

[@johnepavek]

There is sooooo much more cost involved in running a business than the fixed price of a particular product. Everything from the R and D cost that you mentioned to the cost of having it sit in your warehouse till it’s ready to sell. And SM pays all those costs so that we can have tools at our disposal that luthiers 50 years ago could never even conceive of. One reason I want to keep them in business is so they can keep innovating and bringing us cool and useful tools!

[@leibama59]

I am sorry but what R&D are you speaking of? They mostly rip off ideas that other luthiers give them, they are not developing microchips or new AI/ML algorithms or working with any exotic materials that require that much spent on R&D. Hence the stupid files they are charging 90$ each for. They are the fret files they already had, they just cut off the handle. Just like one of there customers suggested. You want to argue something else, like they pay there people well, great. R&D I don't believe. Bottom line they charge to much, we are only starting to get more merchants out there and hopefully they can put stew mac in check. Check out there "Trade Secrets Books" People share all there ideas with them.. then they turn it into a tool. I ordered them when I got my membership, they were cheap and laughed the whole way thru.

[@walterrider9600]

thank you Chris . yes back in the mid 70s i paid lots for a tool . i still use it now days too . yup old geezer . however breaking the price down per yr it was cheap.

[@sleepyhorndog6004]

It really depends on the tool in question. They have some very application specific items designed to speed up workflow in high volume shops. However, there are a lot more options these days for common/basic tools. I have some from StewMac, Crimson, Hosco, etc. I even have a couple that were made/modified by myself. You really just have to do some digging and see where the best value is for your needs with each tool purchase.

[@Chemcaster]

All good points here. The prices begin to make sense when you consider the work that goes into bringing some of these tools to market. I think that the majority of sticker shock at StewMac originates from the broadness of their customer base - they market their products to the seasoned luthier as well as the weekend warrior. For the luthier, purchasing a quality tool is a necessary a cost of business. That reliable tool will be used for a long time in repairing and/or manufacturing quality instruments. For some weekend warriors (myself included), we want to work on a hobby without totally blowing out the budget, and looking at StewMac's prices for a tool that may only be used once in a while can be overwhelming. For me, it's about learning and enjoying myself, not the brand name on my tool set. That being said, I do own several of StewMac's tools as well as some from places like Philadelphia Luthier Tools, and I've always been happy with the quality and utility. I also own some cheaper tools from places like amazon that have stood up to my light use. If these do end up breaking or wearing out and I feel that I will use them a lot, I will upgrade to better quality when that time comes. Thanks for the video!

[@ponynose4987]

I love Stew Mac. Their specialty tools are very high quality, and if you pay a little extra to join the premium level, shipping is free. And it’s fast, especially compared to LMI. Whom I also love. The membership also gets you discounts on books and plans, which makes it even more worthwhile. Their customer service is top notch, too. I believe in Stew Mac!

[@michaelgarner4200]

Yes, free shipping with membership is a good deal. I don't think I would consider buying a cast iron vice if I was paying freight! Also the discount on books. I believe that one difference between the serious hobbyist and someone who has a casual, passing interest in building and repairing guitars is how they gather information. Someone who buys a thick book and reads every page then keeps the book as a reference will learn more than they will get from KZbin. The scholar/craftsmanship (and woman) will appreciate higher quality tools such as those available at Stew Mac and consequently, that person will be willing to pay for higher quality tools , supplies,and information.

[@emilong]

That fretboard mask sounds awesome. I wonder if they could make them more easily with laser cutters now...

[@mysticphilosopher7777]

Hosco (Japan) makes great tools and often are less expensive than stew mac. Philadelphia luthier also has good stuff that is less expensive. However, some stewmac tools are really worth it. For a shop Stewmac is the way to go, but i just do it as a hobby, working on my own guitars...

[@thefreese1]

The biggest reason is that they have a lifetime warranty.. and even on tools that tend to break easily ,like tiny inlay bits... they may sell a good quality bit from a high end company that will cost you $25 elsewhere, and stewmac will sell the same exact tool by that same manufacturer for $45 or $48 . But the first time you have to replace it, you've saved $5 , and the second time and everytime there after you replace it you've saved $25. Some some of their tools they will actually loose money on, but still live up to the warranty because they know you'll buy more tools that they won't loose money on .... Also , they will sometimes send you something for free that you need and not even charge you.... maybe you bought a guitar kit and didn't want an ebony headstock plate they might offer to send you a rosewood, or other type , for free, shipping included. Little things like that add up and are a sign of a good business. Where other companies will nickle and dime you and heehaw around in a circle trying to weasel out of a $10 dollar mistake, on their part, as if it were going to break the company.

[@emal2170]

Yes, plus shipping.

[@THRobinson]

Their custom tools are hard to determine if overpriced or not because no comparison, but where equal quality tools are available elsewhere I find StewMac to be over priced, plus the shipping to Canada is the nail in the coffin.

[@yiranimal]

I really like PhiladelphiaLuthiers. Mostly great quality and much cheaper. Moreover for some strange reason I never get charged duty and taxes coming across the boarder, even with orders over $200! Might have something to do with the declaration. ;)

[@gilmarriner3011]

It’s just that living in Europe the shipping costs are highly prohibitive but, there’s nothing better

[@wishingwells6051]

Stewmac, the company that charges you $100 for a tool that cost them $5 to make. Then they tack on $10 shipping on top. Gives the impression that they are really trying to squeeze every penny out of their customers and this is why people don't like them.

[@MixingGBP]

9:54. Hmmm I’ve never before heard anyone say the CA and tape trick was sketchy.

[@fretted]

The customer service and warranty on Stewmac tools are what really keeps me coming back. I have a ton of Stewmac tools! If I ever have a problem, they always handle it!

[@HighlineGuitars]

Great point!

[@blackbirdpie217]

There are brands who stand behind their products and put their name proudly on them. Some offer well made tools sourced through independent manufacturers. LMI, Elmer, Rockler, Elevate tools, but it's true Stewmac has reliable quality. Seems though they compete with themselves, like the expensive nut slotting files I have, they now say their new types are Soo much better, and they are Sooo much more expensive, too. They already got me on the first ones that were at that time, Sooo good. Just wait, I'll bet you new ones are on the drawing board right now.

[@ricksrealpitbbq]

I’ll admit, I’m not a fan of high pricing unless it’s warranted. The problem I have is that the R&D costs are being recouped over and over. I do buy from stewmac and even have the free shipping membership. But I research every tool I’m looking for these days. Speaking of fret crowning, Baroque makes a fret crowning file that beats anything offered by stewmac. When I see a fret slotting jig from one company at just over 100 dollars and the identical jig at stewmac for 250.00 which one should I buy ? In all fairness stewmac does have tools you can’t find anywhere else. But everyone no matter if your company is as big as Gibson, or you only make one guitar for yourself, everyone has a budget. It makes no sense to pay for the “name”. I enjoy all your videos Chris. However I’d like to see you encourage people to do their research and read reviews on everything you want to purchase. Then make that decision of who gets your money. I wonder what percentage of stewmac tools are 100% American made.

[@jeffscarff1655]

I agree about the recouped R&D. The same fret crowning file I bought in 2001 for $35 is now over $90. And it hasn't changed, except if you read the reviews, it sounds like it's not as "crowned" as it used to be, and they are using different suppliers. It doesn't sound like they are looking for the "best" supplier, but perhaps the "cheapest", too.

[@Cruiseangel72]

Yes and they over change for shipping

[@davidmcgrew3837]

I machine most of my own tools except for certain things of course. The fret puller was expensive as hell so I just bought one at harbor freight, same with the screwdriver set.

[@bobsfirst1]

I like there prices but there shipping charge on single small items is a purchase stopper

[@ndill1597]

Very honest and well put. Thanks

[@HighlineGuitars]

My pleasure!

[@TarynnElizabeth619]

Without a doubt, I agree with you completely. You get what you pay for, for sure! Just curious, I see a neck on a table to the left of your left hand, and I see a guitar body in front of you on another table. Are you building an Ibanez style guitar?

[@HighlineGuitars]

It's my Apollyon design from a few years back. It's a custom build for a client.

[@Zane_Doe]

Are they prohibitively expensive? Yeah, sometimes. Are they overpriced? I don't really think so. My experiences with knockoffs has been hit or miss, but I've never been disappointed with a StewMac version of a tool. That being said, I do hate that cold feeling that comes along with the realization that I'm gonna need to place a StewMac order. And in all honesty, they could charge less for shipping. It's really just a way to encourage customers to sign up for the subscription based shipping program. Which is kind of a crummy strategy to rope people into a subscription service. I've also had good luck looking for alternatives with LMI or Philadelphia Luthier Supplies. They carry pretty good quality stuff for a considerably cheaper price, and reasonable shipping. Recently bought a 23.5" sanding beam from LMI. After taxes and shipping, it was half(-ish) the price of the comparable beam on StewMac.

[@livingroompickersclub6358]

Finding a comparable tool elsewhere doesn't necessarily mean that tool is a knock off.

[@HighlineGuitars]

And there are some who will argue that you know who sells tools that are knockoffs.

[@stevehandley8649]

There is an adage "buy cheap, buy twice". I'm not the target market for SM, being "just a guy fettling guitars and building the occasional one", so for my purposes, SM are expensive. But expensive is not the same as overpriced. I see tools that SM have obviously developed to make an onerous process easier or quicker. For me, they're not worth it, but if I had deadlines to hit, or if I were building and shipping many guitars, making the process quicker or simpler all adds to the bottom line, and those expensive tools pay for themselves. Then there's quality and longevity. If I build 3 guitars a year, and buy a tool that's good for 6 guitars worth of use, I'll replace it every 2 years, and that's ok for me. Imagine the same tool if I build 3 guitars a month - that's one every 2 months (or a bulk order and storage). Even as a hobbyist, I'd rather spend my time building guitars than ordering tools.

[@guitardude4700]

They sure the hell seem like it. I always go to other websites to try to find the same thing

[@DavidRavenMoon]

I was just thinking of that fretboard masking thing. It was too expensive!

[@user-eu3mn6ss5l]

I have many StewMac tools, and many generic Amazon tools. The StewMac tools I have are better quality than the generic tools. I wouldn't generalize - some of their tools are laughably overpriced (the Nut and Saddle Sander), and some are reasonably priced and fantastic (fret end file.). You just have to judge them case by case. My expensive StewMac diamond crowning file does a far better job than my Amazon generic fret crowning file. It was a lot of money but it's definitely better.

[@washaconte3956]

Well... i have seen the pain in the face of people breaking stewmac tools doing SS frets, so i dont believe they are long lasting for every situation. They do overprice the mayority of their products. The worst way of thinking i have seen is the "you get what you pay for" it really piss me off. That way of thinking make people buy a white shirt with a nike logo for 70$ instead of the same thing for 3$ without the logo. There are other brands withthe same offer ( and quality) for less. In my case i buy an ibanez RG, the first 2 years it was ok, then because of wood quality it when downhill... a friend Ibanez Gio plays better and is still going ... i get what i pay for uh?

[@leibama59]

Amen to the Stainless Steal fret tools. Yet all of there reviews are 4 star and above??

[@jnburcher]

I had the same thoughts on the fret masking tape. I never got a chance to try it and then it was gone.

[@30smsuperstrat]

The shipping yes ridiculous! I find buying them indirectly can reduce this cost.

[@falcongunner33]

They really get ya with the shipping. I don't typically buy tools from StewMac, but I do buy luthier supplies. $9.99 for a tiny purfling strip is gouging.

[@gilmarriner3011]

I agree. I‘ve tried some Amazon tools and have gone back to StewMac once those tools either broke or just didn’t give the correct result of have the right tolerance.

[@gutsrage9616]

You can only say if one tool is better than the other when you have actually tried them cheaper tools I let people borrow and learn with

[@alexbasson]

I've always felt that a better quality tool paid for itself-in terms of longevity, quality of the work I'm able to produce, ease of use, and the fun I have using it. The question to me is: Are Stew Mac tools really better quality? It sounds like you think the answer is yes.

[@juliachild9377]

Honestly, I don't think StewMac's quality matches their prices.

[@Shutupletstalk]

Great video! I'm just starting out with repair and enjoying it. Started with some cheap Amazon tools and realized I'm having too much fun to keep using junk 😅. Just bought a Fret Guru crowning file and a leveling beam! Excited to use them.

[@fjb5894]

Absolutely overpriced! I never understood why they don’t lower prices to get a flood of buyer’s like me? For the rich only. 👎

[@HighlineGuitars]

LOL. Rich people don't do this sort of work. They pay people to do it for them.

[@fjb5894]

@@HighlineGuitars Excellent point! Still working on building my CNC based on plans I bought from you. Still in Okinawa but moving to Erie, CO when done here.

[@HighlineGuitars]

@@fjb5894 Still In Okinawa. Sounds like a good title for a blues song. I like Erie. Close to everything without being too close.

[@davedupuis2069]

Besides the high quality of their tools, Stewmac does an incredible job at customer satisfaction. If you aren't happy with the way a tool or product performs they will take it back without question with a full refund. Try that with your ebay purchased tools.

[@melodicdreamer72]

No doubt. From what I have seen their customer service is absolutely top notch. I've read way too many of their reviews and find they will also just send out replacements if there is an issue with the tool. My only personal experience was a package that got lost in the mail around the holiday season. Customer service made it right pretty quickly.

[@arrakeen20]

I don’t really think so

[@flintdavis2]

YES!

[@wilhelmrogue1]

Good info,, agree with alot of it..

[@NoUploadJustComment]

What about the obscene shipping prices?

[@BobbyCulpepper.srv3fender]

I got one of their fret pullers, when I got it it looked identical to the ones you buy at harbor freight, jaws chipped first use, they gave me a refund, got some from jescar

[@HighlineGuitars]

Harbore Freight sells fret pullers?

[@Raven-ep6pq]

After buying from StewMac I’ve never been disappointed of their service and the quality of their tools. If an item comes in damage or sent the wrong item they replace it with a new tool right away and in many cases well let you keep the wrong tool they sent you.

[@juliachild9377]

Doesn't mean they don't overprice their items.

[@Raven-ep6pq]

@@juliachild9377no one is twisting your arms to buy them so what are you bitching about. It’s more or less the same things with doctors, would you rather pay more for a doctor that has studied at a top university or would would take a doctor from the worst schools with your health?

[@ericctheartofnoise8613]

I have bought both and simply said. You get what you pay for.

[@xNinj4xHD]

Not only are they way over priced, build quality on certain tools is absolutely disgusting for the price. The japanese fret slot cleaner worked for about 3-4 frets until the whole blade slid out of the cheap handle. $50+ dollars for the tool not including shipping. “Highly specialized” is a stretch

[@HighlineGuitars]

I assume you told them the problem you had and they sent you a new one.

[@xNinj4xHD]

@@HighlineGuitars Yes, but again, $50 dollar tool. Also, sometimes we can't waste time waiting around for a replacement tool from across the country. At this price point, this should never happen. Hopefully I get more than 3 frets out of this new one, just got it today.

[@markcollins3424]

Yes. Without a doubt, they are.

[@HighlineGuitars]

Are they though? Check out their warranty and think about the tools we use that are prone to wear out.

[@markcollins3424]

@@HighlineGuitars here are some price examples: notched straightedge $114, one z file $114, lemon oil (4 Oz) $21. All very high for what they are. Or an apples-to-apples comparison-dremel 4000 kit. Stewmac price $121 + shipping. Home Depot: $74.50 w/ free shipping.

[@HighlineGuitars]

@@markcollins3424 20 years from now when your tools are worn out and need to be replaced, will Home Depot replace them no questions asked? Stewmac will.

[@peterrebhahn1113]

I watched the video. Sorry, I am unconvinced. Yes, StewMac tools are expensive. They just are. Now, 'expensive' and 'worth it' are two different things. This KZbinr said something smart when he pointed out that people who, like me, think they are expensive are probably not the intended customer. If you make your living building or working on guitars then expensive may well be worth it. But I think there is a certain amount of hogwash (i.e. apologetics) in the video as well. "Research and development." Really? With the exception of electronics there is not much on a guitar that has not been there for hundreds of years. I seriously doubt files, fret rockers, chisels, soldering irons etc. are the subject of much or any "research and development." There probably is very little in the shops of acoustic builders today that would not be recognized by the original C. F. Martin.

[@karllongbottomguitars9192]

I've bought many things from stewmac and have never been disappointed. Do I buy standard tools (feeler gauges etc) from them, no I buy them locally. Specialist tools of any form cost it's as simple as that, luthiers tools that I have purchased else where have often been cheap crap. Factor in buying something twice and it doesn't seem that expensive after all. Also stewmac customer services is second to none

[@jukejointjack]

Stew Mac makes a quality product imo.

[@sambeguely1132]

i can attest to this, pretty much everything I have got via ali express has been a big disappointment

[@SnifferCustoms]

What makes Stew Mac tools even more expensive, is when I buy cheap knockoff tool to save money, then have to go back and buy proper tool at Stew Mac to replace it. 😂 I am only amateur, fake guitar shop (no profit), make around 1 guitar per year (but modify/maintain many guitars for me and others), and know buying best tool FIRST time is best value. There are many other suppliers for tools and parts that I use as well, but Stew Mac is best place to start when I need something. Complaint about shipping cost?? Get StewMax membership for free shipping...especially awesome when you need many small parts like screws, knobs, expendables, etc, in small quantities...and you need them FAST. Very worth it for me, personally! 😈

[@davidclink2032]

Tried live comment but failed. Great video. Greg Voras recommended LMI IN A class. I see acoustics on your rack. Not sure you build them but would watch even though I never built one. Tools are unique and precision is everything. Been to Gibson, Martin, and Taylor factories and was humbled. Their solid bodies are also amazing as is PRS, but not as daunting as acoustics.

[@HighlineGuitars]

I've built acoustics, but they aren't my main interest. Maybe in the future, I'll go back to them.

[@Nabotics]

I haven’t watched the video yet, but yes.

[@frostedhead]

I love Stewmac products! if you can't afford them then you either have a failing shop or your don't have a good paying job.

[@spiccolirocks3580]

I think you use what is high quality and specialized for your needs! I'm a carpenter and most of the tools I use cannot be bought at Lowe's or HD! I buy tools that are high quality, comfortable for me and are going to last! By it once and have it for years if you take care of it or buy it over and over again! Doing things over and over and getting the same results...The definition of insanity!

[@thebutton7932]

some general Luthier tools can be bought elsewhere for less, that do the same job, BUT there are a heap of tools jigs etc you WONT find in other stores, that are absolutely essential, to do the job. For specialised tools, they are top notch

[@DavidRavenMoon]

Back when I started there wasn’t any specialized lutherie tool vendor. I remember getting the first StewMac catalogs which was mostly banjo related. For many years (all through the 90s) it was only StewMac and Luthier’s Mercantile. I have StewMac tools I bought 35 years ago, like my fret bender. Still works great. Good tools aren’t cheap. Snap-On aren’t cheap either. And StewMac designed and invented a lot of tools the knock offs imitate. Everything you said is spot on!

[@juliachild9377]

A tool doesn't have to be expensive just because it's "good." There's also a big difference between fairly pricing and overpricing an item. Quality and longevity aren't justifications or rationalizations for paying well over a fair price for an item.

[@dickdastardly2560]

ABSOLUTELY OVERPRICED AND RIDICULOUS SHIPPING!!!!!

[@tedk2814]

I saw a SM advertisement on my FB feed which included square gummy erasers . Correct me but I was amazed at the price, I believe 5 erasers for somewhere around $50. Maybe they have some type of pumice in them but wow, then shipping costs on top of that. I think the biggest reason I don't purchase small items from SM is due to shipping costs and I know if I planned on multiple future purchases I could "pay" upfront for shipping but I'm a hobbyist. China, on the other hand, is benefiting from free shipping the USA has afforded them for many years. Long ago when China was poor, the WTO decided we should supplement their shipping and the E-packet came along a bit later. The US postal service supplements China's industry with cheap shipping and its way past time to discontinue the practice but I guess too much money to be made by all involved in trade with Communist China. Did you ever want to ship a defective product back to China? Shipping was free on purchase but it cost $45 to mail it back. The only thing I ever got from China that lasted more than a week was the Chinese Virus!! Love your channel, subscribed and watch every episode. thanks Ted in Sebastian,Fl

[@HighlineGuitars]

Hobbyist vs Professional. It's sort of like buying stuff from McMaster-Carr or Granger. Expensive, but geared toward professionals and not necessarily hobbyists.

[@jim4596]

Stewcrack is what they were smoking when they came up with the prices of their tools.

[@HighlineGuitars]

How old are you?

[@timeWaster76]

If something is over priced don't buy it

[@sargelegg6679]

They are not overpriced they are expensive.

[@2bikemikesguitartopics145]

YES,that's me

[@tahampton25]

I get that some of their custom luthier tools are exclusive and can charge whatever they want. But $30, on sale, for lacquer thinner worth $10 is an absolute joke. But the principle of charging $20 for $5 heat shrink is why I'll never buy anything from them

[@brettbailey6780]

We all need to remember their Lifetime guarantee. A $200 crowing file being replaced for free, for the rest of my life, is worth the price many times over.

[@persiangulfmariner8673]

I've noticed a very noticeable qualitative difference not just between StewMac and cheap Chinese knock-off tools, but is applicable to just about everything. I've bought Chinese crap and regretted it but have yet to regret buying something from StewMac or any other reputable manufacturer.

[@BLBlackDragon]

Good timing, for me. I'm starting to play around with guitar building, and trying to figure out where to buy tools has been... well, a bit of an adventure. Knowing that Stewmac is geared more towards the professional luthier explains the price difference nicely.

[@Aleklawa]

I am from Brazil, the exchange its about R$ 5,50 per each USD, Plus import charges and fees, it is impossible to buy from StewMac, so everythings are comming from China, the prices are afordable, however they are Increasing on the International freight..today I was quoting a telecaster body ,,,the international freight more expensive than body !!!

[@deadprivacy]

Shipping from china is in a huge backlog . Post covid all the containers are backed up month.

[@OnAir21]

Answer: Mostly yes, unless you make a living as a luthier and/or guitar tech.

[@paulcarter5117]

Everything they have is over priced and the shipping, well that another thing. Needed to get a couple of neck shims and the shipping was just about as much as the shims. CROOKS!!!

[@HighlineGuitars]

I would agree with you if Stewmac was like all other luthier tool companies. However, there is one crucial difference: www.stewmac.com/customer-service/lifetime-promise/

[@jacobbrown1690]

What drives the cost lol. PROFIT

[@dalgguitars]

Matt from Texas Toast Guitars says the same thing.

[@HighlineGuitars]

Matt knows his stuff.

[@chinacat3978]

Also worth mentioning that their customer service is second to none. I'd ordered a set of locking tuners but a set of tele style tuners turned up. A second attempt had a similar result. The third got it right and they told me to just keep the incorrect ones. I was also impressed when a guitar kit I'd ordered got to Australia in 7 days despite covid. All orders I've placed have been just as slick. Great service.

[@hheidrick]

Snap on,and Matco tools are way over priced also. I wouldn’t pay the price for those tools either. Because I can get credit and the truck has it on hand? No thanks. I would love to buy more Stew Mac tools, but the shipping alone is ridiculous! I know you made your own buffing wheel, and pickup winder. I look at Stew Macs and say “ No way am I paying that price! Then add the shipping OMG. Don’t get me wrong I would love to own more Stew Mac tools but to steep for me. Oh the free shipping for $ 40.00 a year membership. I’m not biting that. I would think that if they kicked down the prices a little and free shipping on orders over a certain price.( with the exception of over weight and large items) they would have more buyer’s. Just my opinion

[@jwandhistools]

For those that say they sell you a $5 tool for $100, please provide links for the same quality tools for less. I am serious. Those $5 fret files on ebay, are pure garbage. I found a set of Hosco nut slotting files for about $60 set, which are great. But still, not the same quality as the stewmac stuff. That is about as close as I have gotten. Their finishing supplies are excellent, and the same prices are other places. Pay the $39 year for stewmax membership, and you don't pay shipping.

[@leibama59]

I'll list more tomorrow, they are way over priced for so many things its insane.

[@josephclark5965]

Anyone that has ever been involved with wholesale material and production, knows this isn't an accurate comparison. Every original company has R&D. Snap-on, Dewalt, Makita, etc., average between 300 and 900% profit margin. Stewmac is hitting 3000% to 5000% (sometimes above) and that's the main reason their niche is so small. Plus, many of their sales aren't original, their copies of long invented tools. Buying bulk and reselling 3M for profit, isn't a favor, 🙄, it's standard wholesale - retail. Are they a lot better than cheap knockoffs? Of course! Is 5000% profit "just necessary"? Lol, no. There's a happy medium where you produce a good tool and sell it at a fair price. If they ACTUALLY were doing the same as the other companies you mentioned, only 2,3 to 4 times the cost, insted of 10, 20, 50 times the cost, people wouldn't be talking about how expensive they are.

[@HighlineGuitars]

I am going to forward your comment on to Stewmac for a response. Should be interesting.

[@josephclark5965]

@@HighlineGuitars Works for me, especially $100 nut files😅. But if you do like working with them and want to do them a favor, may want to mention that I'm a former employee for a component supplier. A heads up that at least 1 item can be fact checked, might avoid any umm, unintentionally misleading public remarks. FTR, I have nothing against Stew Mac. Making a successful business model with that profit margin, is as pro capitalist as it gets. Just not going along with misleading people that extravagant costs are necessary. Following your example, their "Dewalt" needs a Black and Decker line. One were the file works "well" but runs more in line with production costs. There's a serious need for an entire Epiphone - ish line of luthier tools to fill the gap between China pot metal and Stewmac. Talking to you, young entrepreneurs.

[@leibama59]

Read there Tools of the Trade books. They do there R&D from customer comments and customer ideas. My cousin is a machinist with a CNC in his basement. Regular folks and different companies send him CAD files and he makes tons of protypes on the weekend as a side business.. Prob the same thing sew mac does. Its cheap when it comes to R&D. They deal mostly with metallic tools, not many exotic metals and no computer or software R&D. Anyone that thinks there R&D is anymore than some recent college grad sending CAD files to a CNC machinist is crazy. They don't need anything else. Its cheap now a days to do that. They talk to there customers alot, hence so many people defending them. They ask them for ideas/improvements. You think they are being nice, they are R&Ding off of you. Nothing wrong with it, give your customers what they want. Just don't charge them through the teeth. O and also don't censor your comments on your web page! I purchased alot of Stew Mac Tools that I should have got elsewhere, calipers, gages, files, cutters, paint supplies, all bc of there rep. Payed way way to much. THat rep is partly because they censor the crap out of there reviews. They have done it to me because it wasn't a 4 or 5 star review. Then give a BS reason for not posting it. Just hope they take care of there employees with the piles of $ they make.

[@71supa]

Are they expensive? Sure, yes. Most stewmac tools attempt to solve a common problem in lutherie, are almost indispensable, and last forever; you get what you pay for. Some of their jigs and such I can easily make myself and would never spend money on. It's about knowing what to buy when you know you need it. And speaking from my own professional experience in the tech world, there is nothing more frustrating than spending tons of time and money developing a good product and then some reverse engineering house in China makes a piece of junk copy of it to make a fast buck, piggybacking on your R&D efforts. Don't buy cheap knockoffs of niche market products, it's antisocial. And in the very rare occasion that I've been unsatisfied with a tool, stewmac has always made it right without an argument.

[@hobertgordon7465]

They have an extreme mark up

[@HighlineGuitars]

Do you know what it is? I'm curious to know.

[@saltyscorpion2151]

Maybe 10 or 15 years ago they were worth it. Now they get a lot of the standard tools from China. plus they kill you on shipping. There are other quality tools, that are not Chinese knock-offs available for midrange prices.

[@HighlineGuitars]

All tools are coming from China. What matters is whether a company like Stewmac maintains a level of quality through communication and inspection, which adds to the cost.

[@saltyscorpion2151]

@@HighlineGuitars That is not correct. Check out Project Farm who tests all kinds of tools. You'll see that tools come from all over the world including the US, Germany, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Canada, etc. Most of these are much better quality than the stuff out of China. Another question I have is why is StewMac not marking the country of manufacture on either the tool or the packaging. More and more of their tools are not marked. Don't get me wrong, some of their tools are still top quality, but some are no better than the knock-offs

[@leibama59]

@@saltyscorpion2151 Highline, can you send Pops question over to Stew Mac. Ask specifically about the fret tang nippers origin of manufacture. Thanks