Chain prices

[s219]

So I was picking up some extra transport chain today at lunch, and I noticed quite a disparity in pricing. Some of this may be inflated prices at Northern Tool, which I have noticed a bit over the years. I was there to pickup some chain binders on sale, and at least those were a good deal ($22 each for ratchet binders).

Anyhow, they had 20' of 5/16" chain for $53, or the same length in 3/8" chain on sale for $57, both with hooks on the ends and in a cheap little plastic case. This was grade 43 chain, unplated. The prices seemed high to me, so I went over to Lowes where I had to buy some other stuff.

Lowes had 20' of 5/16" chain for $39, grade 70, plated (yellow chromate). Also with hooks, but no case (just a flimsy pouch). I ended up buying two of them, since this seemed like a real good price to me for a better grade of chain.

So is Northern super high-priced on this, or am I nuts?

 

[George2615]

Seems to me that Northern is a little high priced for grade 43 chain. Hard to say about Lowes whether its chain from China or not. If it is Gr. 70 from China you could have got a better deal at Harbor Freight.

 

[JB4310]

So I was picking up some extra transport chain today at lunch, and I noticed quite a disparity in pricing. Some of this may be inflated prices at Northern Tool, which I have noticed a bit over the years. I was there to pickup some chain binders on sale, and at least those were a good deal ($22 each for ratchet binders).

Anyhow, they had 20' of 5/16" chain for $53, or the same length in 3/8" chain on sale for $57, both with hooks on the ends and in a cheap little plastic case. This was grade 43 chain, unplated. The prices seemed high to me, so I went over to Lowes where I had to buy some other stuff.

Lowes had 20' of 5/16" chain for $39, grade 70, plated (yellow chromate). Also with hooks, but no case (just a flimsy pouch). I ended up buying two of them, since this seemed like a real good price to me for a better grade of chain.

So is Northern super high-priced on this, or am I nuts?

I think it's just that Lowe's has a good deal on their chain. 30 years ago chain cost more than it does today.

I think Lowe's is made in USA too, I bought a twenty footer from Lowe's and cut it in half and put the plated hooks on to make 2 lengths.
Also found the same 5/16" x 20' G70 chain at Harbor freight for $24. with a coupon, I don't usually use 5/16 chain much, I prefer 3/8, but for that deal I just bought it.

JB

 

[Sterff]

I don't know where you are located but, check with your local tractor dealership if you are near one. I just bought two 5/16 USA 25' chains for $35 each. They were on sale though.