On 8 Nov 2005 23:46:42 -0800, wrote:

How do you guys rate the two suppliers against each other. In terms
of price, product line, availability, and customer service?

Thank you for your input,

J James

There is a Fastenal store just north of the town I work in, one in the
town I live in and another just south of here. Occassionally I wish I
could buy the two or three of what I need instead of a box of 50 or
100 but I have to admit everything I have bought from them gets used
eventurally.

MSC I sort wish they would slow down their rapid delivery. Just
kidding of course but they really spoil us and when we have to deal
with other companies we expect (but don't usually get) the same
lightening service.

McMaster-Carr Excellent service and selection. I have gotten a
number of items there I was not able to find anywhere else.

I am building the Ben Fleming designed EDM unit and have had to order
from a variety of on line sources and believe me some of those sites
ain't pretty. We are sooo spoiled by MSC and McM!

I try to deal with local folks whenever possible and a favorite place
is Piela Electric in Preston, CT Any bearing problem can be resolved
there and they are a Grainger outlet also.

Speaking of Grainger. I wanted to order a submersible pump for the
EDM. Went on line and the web site says they are strictly wholesale.
I remembered that there is a Grainger store in Waterford, CT and
bopped on down there after school one day last week. The counter guy
said no problem and the pump was there next morning. Good enough for
me and now I have a new place to go and poke around and buy things I
probalby could get along without.

Errol Groff

Instructor, Machine Tool Department

H.H. Ellis Technical High School
643 Upper Maple Street
Danielson, CT 06239

New England Model Engineering Society
www.neme-s.org