I'm due for some new metric hex bit sockets. My current one (Proto "Challenger" brand) are showing wear. I think Proto has a lifetime warranty, but not sure where the nearest retailer is. In the sake of retail science, I plan to buy Craftsman brand and see if they'll warranty the worn edges. Realize it may take many years for me to conclude this experiment, so be patient.

Also, note that KMart and OSH sells Craftsman tools too. I suppose you can return to those locations for warranty. KMart does not stock all Craftsman tools, but if they have hex wrenches, I doubt the average KMart employee would know much about tools.

When I've returned tools to Sears in the past, the clerk would say "go get one that is equal to this one" and the clerk would just toss the old tool into a bucket under the counter. I'd return and he ring me up as a no cost sale. I've noticed (in my experience), the clerk would hardly even look at the old tool, and gave a quick glance at the new tool. I assume as long as it was of the same rough dimensions and weight, the clerk was satisfied.

"My friend" broke a 1/2 breaker bar once (think 4' steel fence post on the end) and the clerk said something like "Wow, how'd that happen?" I just shrugged my shoulders, and left the store with a new breaker bar. Oh for the record, I was just returning the obviously abused tool for my friend.