So who makes premium tools? Well the name that springs immediately to mind is Snap-On. They are one of the largest tool manufacturers in the world. they make tools in a variety of areas that are geared toward professional users. Quietly, they own other companies that make professional grade, an DIY type tools. Other large premium US tool manufacturers include Matco (Danaher tools) and Proto (which is a division of Stanley). Outside the US, there are a number of premium tool manufacturers including Facom, Hazet, Stahlwille, Heyco, and others. Many US tool users are unfamiliar with these European brands, but they are very highly regarded around the world. Facom tools are generally regarded as among the best in the world and are tool supplier to Ferrari's racing teams. Hazet are the tool supplier to the Porsche Factory and Porsche racing as well as the BMW factory and their M racing teams. Stahlwille are factory suppler to Mercedes Benz. Heyco are used by a number of German auto manufacturers as well.
How about good tools. Well the best known is Craftsman. At one time, Craftsman tools were considered premium tools, but thanks to Stanley Tools winning the Craftsman contract and destroying the good name by moving production overseas and using inferior steel, they can no longer be considered premium. Danaher tools has now got the Craftsman contract and the tools are far better than under Stanley, but not up to the old standard. Still not bad though and reasonably priced. Kobalt Tools from Lowes are a very good alternative to premium. They have all the features of the premium tools but are made from less than premium steel. If you are looking to get into excellent tools on a DIY budget, you need look no farther. Husky tools sold at Home Depot are made by Stanley. They appear to be reasonable tools at fair prices, but I much prefer the Kobalt Tools from Lowes which are manufactured by a division of Snap-On. There are other manufacturers in this group, but these are the largest and the ones you should consider first.