The sad part to me is that it really doesn't matter whether or not you hate (or don't hate) companies like Walmart and HF, they're here to stay. With everything being outsourced nowadays, there simply isn't a choice between buying a high quality (USA or European, for example) version , and a low quality "China" version of the same item. What's on the shelf is what you have to choose from, and everyday that passes makes for slimmer "pickin's."

My coworker bought a HF TIG welder in the late 80's that was made in Sweden, he used it for 20 years on a regular basis at home, and was able to keep it working until a main component failed. I bet you can't even find a Swedish girl working the register at HF, let alone a product there that is made in Sweden! Same with Walmart and the Pyrex bowl I bought 15 years ago that says "Made in the USA" right on the bottom. It's not that way at either of those stores now!

I am happy that forums like this one bring together the common goal of building and repairing things ourselves! Lots of good ideas and input on here, in a calm environment. Mention China or the "E-word" on the Miller forum and prepare to duck and take cover!