Quote Originally Posted by Mike Blue View Post
Japanwoodworker - Home - The Japan Woodworker Catalog

Hida Tool & Hardware Company

Either place has a spectrum of cost/quality. But, even the low end stuff is made by craftsmen. I have not been disappointed by any tool purchased from either place.

Now, as to small tools for the size shop you describe... Shop Small Hobby Tools & Miniature Tools from Micro Mark

If you hate me after showing you that last link, I understand. They are oriented toward hobby-ists. The tools are really pretty good despite their size. I have way too many things purchased from these guys. I hate the guy that gave me my first catalog from here. He's one of my best friends. As soon as I see their catalog in the mail it goes straight in the trash. Opening it costs money.
The low end stuff is not made by craftsmen, they are factory made. The craftsmen stuff is pretty expensive.
For example my first kogatana was a $20 from JWW, it bent in ~2 months, and I trashed it. I found out later that it was a stamped blade not forged. My current forged kogatana is made by a smith, it cost several times more and is still considered low end.