Originally Posted by Wordbiker
Box wrenches, screwdrivers, torque wrenches, calipers, fluids, degreasers...all stuff with much cheaper counterparts in the local hardware store,
Frame polishes, shop stools, tape measures, files, allen keys, torx wrenches, hammers...look at a tool board in your LBS and see how many of those tools are things you already have that are just branded items.
There are some very specific tools like spoke threaders and such that truly are bike specific, but those are shop tools and not something the average Joe needs in his toolbox.
For most people you really only need to buy a crank puller, a cassette tool, some chain whips (you might even be able to make those) and a spoke key. Most everything else is allen keys or torx wrenches. You might need a few of the very thin 13/14/15 open end wrenches for hubs, too, but that pretty much covers the bulk of home repairs. What can't you do with those and the sockets and screw drivers you probably already have in the garage for your car?
Now, if you have some shiny, flashy rides in your quiver, then the amount you spend on additional tools will be small in proportion to the money needed to feed your habit. If you start to talk about wheels by the set (and have to actually unzip a couple of wheelbags to find the particular set your looking for) then the cost of a truing stand and a tension guage isn't so outrageous.
OR, if you're like me, having more tools on your toolboard at home makes it easier to justify all the time you spend puttering in the garage to your wife. Whenever you sense her approaching, you can put down your beer, pick up a Phil Wood BB tool (circa 1990) grab whatever is sitting on your bench and start muttering under your breath. Most likely the wife will beat a hasty retreat and you can go back to the beer you had in your hand and that oh so precious respite.
How can you put a price on that?