Custer Hardware Store Shopping Guide
Why You Should Visit
- Extensive Selection: You’ll find a surprisingly wide variety of hardware items for a smaller town store, making it a one-stop shop for many needs. I even found specialized items like plumbing o-rings for RVs.
- Local Expertise and Friendliness: The staff is consistently praised for their helpfulness, friendliness, and local knowledge. They go the extra mile; I saw them cut plastic pipe to my exact specifications for my motorhome.
- Locally Owned and Operated: Supporting a family-owned business is a plus for many shoppers. The employees are often residents of Custer.
- Convenient Location: It’s conveniently located just one block off Main Street in Custer.
- Generally Positive Customer Service: Most experiences highlight excellent customer service, with staff members readily assisting customers in finding products and answering questions. I personally experienced a warm greeting upon entering the store.
Why You Might Consider Alternatives
- Pricing: Be aware that prices are higher than in larger cities like Rapid City. I experienced this firsthand when pricing lumber; it was considerably more expensive than at Lowe’s in Rapid City (e.g., a treated 2x4x8 was $14+ compared to $8.17 at Lowe’s). You might save 30-40% by shopping elsewhere for some items. Prices also appeared higher than at Ace Hardware.
- Inconsistent Product Knowledge: While generally helpful, staff expertise can be inconsistent. I experienced an instance where incorrect advice regarding o-rings resulted in a second trip to the store. Basic internet searches could have easily prevented this.
- Checkout Discrepancies: I observed a difference of approximately $2.50 between the register total and the credit card machine total, although this was ultimately resolved in the customer’s favor.
- Phone Service: Expect potential difficulties reaching them by phone; one review reported being abruptly hung up on.
