Rob’s Hardware: A Shopper’s Guide

Why You Should Visit

• Extensive Inventory: You’ll find a surprisingly wide selection of items, including essential hardware supplies, a large gardening section, plumbing parts, nuts and bolts, a unique craft section with yarn and sewing notions, and even hard-to-find, old-time items. The store is described as “very well-stocked” and having “almost everything.” One shopper even noted they had a “ton of really unique items.”
• Convenient Location & Hours: Rob’s offers the convenience of a local hardware store, eliminating long drives to larger towns like Ellsworth or Bangor. It’s also open all weekend.
• Competitive Pricing: In some cases, prices are comparable to or even lower than big-box stores. One reviewer noted that prices were “often on par with other ‘big box’ places,” and sometimes even “a little cheaper.”
• Exceptional Service (Sometimes): While some experiences were negative, others highlight above-and-beyond assistance, even for small purchases. Many reviews praise the exceptional and accommodating service.
• Equipment Rental & Repair: Rob’s offers rental and repair services for yard equipment like mowers and tillers.

Why You Might Consider Alternatives

• Inconsistent Customer Service: Be aware that customer service can be inconsistent. Some shoppers have had positive interactions, while others experienced unprofessional and unhelpful staff. One instance involved an inaccurate price quote over the phone, and another described unhelpful service during a return.
• Pricing Inconsistencies: While some items are competitively priced, others might be more expensive than at other stores. High prices on some houseware items were specifically mentioned. In one case, a propane tank was quoted at $180 over the phone, but actually cost $240 in-store.
• Bulk Purchasing Considerations: For large-quantity purchases, the cost-effectiveness of buying from Rob’s might be lower than driving to Bangor or Ellsworth.
• Return Policy Issues: The return policy might be restrictive. A shopper experienced difficulty returning a defective sump pump and only received store credit instead of a refund.
• Potential for Uncomfortable Experiences: At least one review describes feeling watched and judged while shopping, suggesting an unfriendly atmosphere.