[srjones]

I haven't read most of the 181 posts on this thread, but I'll add my list. My rule for value and happiness is that if the cost of buying the tool at HF is less than 2x the cost renting a tool for 1 day AND if I get more than two full days of work out of it, I'm happy. (The 2xR rule)

1. Rotary hammer drill. About $60, takes standard SDS bits. I've drilled many holes in and through concrete. It's more than paid for itself.

2. Utility knife. $0.99 Basically the same one you'd find elsewhere for $3-4. Since I'm usually losing/misplacing these, it never hurts to have a bunch around. The 2xR rule doesn't apply here.

3. Concrete vibrator. $79.99 -15% coupon. Another item that I won't be renting anymore, and I can easily use on small jobs.

4. Chainsaw sharpener. $29.99. 3+ years and still going strong. This thing is amazing and has easily paid for itself. It's a low power consumer too, so I can run it off a 300W cheapo inverter.