Holy Hannah, did this thread get STOOPID! Racism? Grow up! And tell me, oh great seer of things I cannot, if it's incorrect to call stuff made in China "Chinese", what the he// may we call it?
Like it or lump it, there are many reasons that "Stuff Made In The People's Republic Of China" is inexpensive, and yes, of lower standards that domestic products. These reasons, and the results are indisputable. They pay MUCH lower wages to employees. Many of their materials are not as refined. Their "safety standards" pale in comparison to ours. Thier quality control is much lower. They don't have the same, massive union bodies demanding insane wages and benefits. The list goes on and on. This does not make me racist, this makes me informed. Stop being such a politically correct pushover, and wake up and smell the coffee.
The reality of it all? Caveat Emptor, or "buyer beware". If all you can afford is a cheap HF clone, go for it. Know that it's not built to the same standards as a GX, and there is a fairly good chance of a truncated lifespan. Fortunately, here in North America (I can say that, right?) we have warranty protection, and a critical failure is most likely to occur within the warranty period. Companies that specialise in importing "Stuff Made In The People's Republic Of China" generally seem to be more than generous with exchanges and returns. Princess Auto is amazing. If you can or will buy a GX, or Briggs, or whatever you wish, go for it. A lot of pockets will be lined, MOST of them for our benefit.
As for cars, it won't happen anytime soon. Our safety standards pretty much guarantee it.
PS- You'll notice I positively reference the Japanese-made GX a couple of times. Kinda pees out the old racism campfire, don't it?
