Martin Hardware: A Shopper’s Guide

Why You Should Visit

• Exceptional Key Services: You’ll find a highly skilled in-house locksmith, Ray, capable of handling even the most challenging key and lock situations. They also make keys quickly and efficiently, even for specialized items like Corbin custom motorcycle seats. I found their key-making services far more affordable than national chain alternatives.
• Hard-to-Find Items: The location offers a surprising selection of unique and difficult-to-source items. For example, I was able to find metric carriage bolts for a Honda lawnmower and closet door parts, unavailable at other stores.
• Helpful and Friendly Staff: Many employees consistently receive praise for their helpfulness, friendliness, and willingness to assist with various projects. The staff actively goes above and beyond to help customers find exactly what they need. This personal touch was refreshing.
• Quality Products and Reliable Service: The store has built a reputation for carrying quality products and standing behind its sales and repairs, a testament to its long-standing presence in the community (nearly 70 years!).
• Extensive Tool Rental Selection: The store boasts a great rental tool selection, making it a one-stop shop for various home improvement and repair projects; a true landlord’s dream.
• Quick Service for Glass Cutting: While there was an issue with pricing discrepancies on a glass-cutting job (discussed below), the actual service was quick and the staff was otherwise decent to work with.

Why You Might Consider Alternatives

• Inconsistent Customer Service: Be aware that the customer service experience can vary significantly. While many report friendly and helpful interactions, others describe encountering rude and unfriendly staff, particularly involving returns and manager interactions. One employee’s emotional distress caused by the owner’s treatment was deeply disturbing to witness.
• Return Policy Issues: The return policy seems subjective and inconsistently applied. Returns are reportedly handled with difficulty, especially for higher-priced items or when mechanical failure occurs shortly after purchase. One instance involved a lawnmower malfunctioning within an hour of purchase, where the return was refused.
• Pricing Discrepancies: While services like glass cutting are quick, you should confirm pricing before work commences, as there have been instances of significant price discrepancies between phone quotes and in-store charges.
• Management Behavior: Multiple reviews highlight the potentially unprofessional and rude behavior of the manager (Kendra and Katie). This behavior includes mistreating employees and showing a lack of customer empathy when dealing with returns and issues.