Reading your OP, I don't really get a sense of what your requirements are, (hobby, agriculture, industrial) or how long you need your toolsets to last. Having been a heavy equipment field mechanic for over 50 years, supplying my own tools and truck, if it's long term investment, you will find it's brands that serve the industry. In no particular order, Proto, Williams, SK Pro etc. Because I live and work rural, I generally went with Proto so I could get 24 hr delivery from Grainger.
Short term, say you're 60 yr old, for hobby, I'd go with Northern Tool or Harbor Freight, their upper end brands are not that bad for casual use.
Straight hobby tools, like gun stuff, you probably know more than I do.
