Kev said:
I often think about this topic in terms of "tradesman v's craftsman". A craftsman would typically care for his a tools ... a tradesman could look after his tools, but often not.
Here in Oz you'll see rusty tools careless thrown into the back of utilities. You won't see this with the guys that care about their tools - they're clean, packed away and secure.
BTW Garry, I'll see your OCD and raise you an ECD. There's one thing worse than obsessive and that's excessive! [embarassed]
You know, it's kind of funny. I used to be somewhat surprised when I sold a bunch of my existing tools being replaced by Festool's...and my heavy machinery being upgraded. I sold generally via craigslist, and when people came over to look, they always have this "I can't believe the condition" look on their faces. Never had anyone leave without the item they came to see.
Now, I understand. I've been dropping in on yard and garage sales when I see them in my area, and I am absolutely stunned by the terrible condition of the woodworking tools and other machinery I've seen at these sales. I have YET to see a single item that I would pay money for at ANY sale! Unbelievable! Massive rust, pieces missing, clearly dropped, so dirty you don't want to even handle, and prices beyond comprehension. [doh]
I'm not a craftsman nor a tradesman. I'm a simple hobbyist who tries to take care of my equipment. After all, I've spent a ton of $$ on them, and I don't get how some people can spend that kind of money, and then just let them deteriorate to the level of not being usable at all. I feel the same about my photography equipment. OCD, anal, whatever...but well worth it in the end!
Could be a byproduct of being a professional pilot as well. We don't fly things that don't work, or look like they're ready to fall apart! [eek]
