TRISTAN - That was Donald T. that had that good price on the V61s from his Canadian distributor. And 50 Bucks to mount them is ROBBERY. I think $10/each is more than enough. Like Matt said, couple tire irons or BIG screwdrivers is all that's needed to mounth them, and some dish washing liquid for lubricant.
RYAN, KENDELL - From talking to several mechanics, when they first start working and filling out their toolbox, or like My one Buddy, who was also a "tool-a-holic" the payroll deduction for tools was almost half their pay check.
There was a time 20-25 yrs ago My local Sears store got real difficult to deal with about replacing tools. But it was the local store's problem. Current store, you walk in with whatever is broken, salesman helps you find the new one, prints you a "no charge" reciept and your on your way.
The fact that the major tool companies market tools direct to mechanics thru the local salesmen who run delivery routes is the BIG selling point. New purchases, returns, etc all handled at the same place, same time every week.
Dad used to have an "Independent Tool salesman" visit him about every 3-4 months. ALL brands of brand name stuff plus WIX oil filters. Dad didn;t buy that many tools, but We used WIX filters in everything!