Coastal Tool & Supply: A Shopper’s Perspective
Why You Should Visit
- Extensive Selection: You’ll find a stunning amount of in-stock tools, including professional-grade options and contractor models not always available at big-box stores. They carry brands like DeWalt (including the DCD996P2 3-Speed Hammerdrill Kit, made in the USA), Makita (such as rebar wire tiers), and offer a wide range of accessories. The store itself is vibrantly organized by brand, making browsing enjoyable. They even carry budget-friendly options.
- Competitive Pricing: Prices are often lower than Amazon, Walmart, and other big-box retailers. I’ve consistently found deals on items like the Dewalt 3-beam pocket laser (DW089K). They also offer special ordering at competitive prices.
- Exceptional Customer Service (from some): Many shoppers rave about the knowledgeable and helpful staff. Aaron McFarland is specifically mentioned as outstanding and extremely helpful. One shopper even recounted how the staff went above and beyond to ensure they received a Christmas order quickly. Another detailed how staff helped resolve a vacuum hose clog and source replacement parts. In some cases, they are accommodating in shipping arrangements to apartments or other locations.
- Convenient Online Presence: Coastal Tool maintains a website and sells on Amazon, offering the same or better pricing as their brick-and-mortar location. Online orders are typically shipped quickly (even without expedited shipping) with free standard shipping available to some locations, and even include a follow-up call to confirm delivery details.
- Warranty and Repair Services: They are knowledgeable about tool repair warranties and even assisted in repairing tools that were considered decommissioned.
Why You Might Consider Alternatives
- Inconsistent Customer Service: While many praise the helpful staff, some shoppers have reported encountering grumpy, unhelpful clerks, especially when picking up online orders. This experience can range from minimally helpful to actively unhelpful.
- No Discounts Despite Advertising: The store’s signage advertises discounts, yet some shoppers report that the prices are not discounted from what one finds elsewhere.
- Limited Hours: The store hours might not be convenient for everyone.
