Originally Posted by cruentus
That's one reason. Mac and Snap-On also make a lot of auto repair specialty tools that are not available at Sears. The Mac and Snap-On dealers also offer easy payment plans for tool purchases.
That's a good point. There are specific automotive tools that Sears regular hardware stores don't carry and may not even be available from their specialty tool catalog. Sort of like Sears doesn't carry cone wrenches or bottom bracket tools.
BTW, I've never broken a Craftsman tool while working on a bicycle.
Neither have I. The only Craftsman tool I've ever broken was a 14 mm socket while removing a very reluctant manifold bolt. Sears replaced it without question.