Which Is Better, Cheaper or Last Longer
 

My father was a cheap buyer; that is, he bought cheap stuff because it didn't cost as much. As a result, most stuff he bought wore out or broke pretty quickly. I remember having a collection of toy parts that had been purchased and died this way. Maybe that's why I can put stuff together pretty good, lots of childhood practice.

Anyway, I bought an XLR Water Cannon from Water Blaster Inc. several years ago, and it is one of the best toy buys I've ever made. The thing is nearly indestructible, and it shoots so far that other water cannons, like super soaker, can't keep up.

I've out-blasted people at lakes, pools, the ocean, on boats, across streets, and it is definately top of the line when it comes to water cannons. Water Blaster Inc. even gives a lifetime guarantee - if one ever breaks, they replace it free.

So what do you all think: is it better to buy the best, or buy what is cheaper. Let me know.

I think in the long run you're always going to fall somewhere in the middle.

Usually the most expensive thing is not ENOUGH better to justify the cost. You want to balance how much you're willing to spend with how long you'd like the item to last.

I find this is especially true for things like shoes and beds/mattresses.

Thanks for the reply, Rexplode.

Do you think added values like the lifetime guarantee make a difference in the decision making process of buying a toy like water blasters, or no?

I only use Super Soakers.

Why only super soakers? Are they different from the water blasters?

Oh definitely quality makes a huge difference but it's down to what you can afford, really. Like I'll usually try to purchase the best that I can afford with anything that isn't a consumable keeping in mind all other factors that would affect my personal definition of afford. :]

I understand about affordability completely. I wasn't trying to say in the thread that a person should spend outside of their means.

I'm curious though; The water cannons from waterblaster.com are pretty affordable, in my opinion. The bigger XLR is only $20 and comes with a lifetime guarantee. That's pretty affordable, considering that I just spent the same amount at Taco Bell for 3 people (okay, I had an extra 5 Layer Beefy Burrito myself:)). But are you saying that most people would find the XLR too expensive, or that others out there find better quality somewhere else. Not to make this a commercial for the XLR, really, but it seems like superior construction to me so far. I just got back from the lake last weekend and used it for everything from blasting passing boats to carrying life preservers staff-like back to the truck. I'm quite impressed.