Excellent thread! I'll chime in here too:
Black and Decker 4" Angle Grinder - I once swore off B&D but this was the most inexpensive trigger handled angle grinder I could find. (I don't like the thumb switches at all) Lots of power and has taken a beating. 8/10
Black and Decker 1/2" Corded Drill - After the sucess with the angle grinder, I bought the 1/2" drill in the same line. (the orange/black ones) Again, no complaints at all for the price. (I think they are putting some thought into these designs now) 8/10
Mastercraft Professional Series Wrenches - Only available in Canada I think, but these rule. I like them better than my Craftsman and my Jet wrenches. Quite affordable too! 10/10
Mac Tools Spot Blaster - This is a little toploading sandblaster that holds 2lbs of sand. Its messy, but it is really inexpensive and works great on small parts and large... (but you have to refill it often) 8/10
Mastercraft Small Pliers - I bought a set of spring loaded pliers, meant for small projects like computer assembly, etc. These things are one of the most used tools I have, great for small stuff, and deceptively strong. (a set comes with side cutters, end cutters, needlenose, and curved needle nose... all minature) 9/10
Craftsman Screwdrivers - Tried and true handle design that won't slip when you are covered in oil. 9/10
6" Bench Vice - Not brand specific, but after toiling with my dads 4" bench vice for years we got a robust 6" one, and what a huge difference. Get the best vice you can afford. 10/10!!
As always, I'd only buy hand tools that are guarenteed for life. Nothing is worse than breaking a wrench, because it usually means a nose, or knuckle as well.