Djoser in #Brussels refused to exchange a defective tool 1 day after purchase. Heads-up folks. The tool was sold in tamper-evident packaging and the defect was not discoverable until after it was opened. The staff gave these reasons for refusing the return:

1. “There is no guarantee on tools”
2. “How do we know that you did not use the tool and break it?”
3. “We have no contract directly with the tool maker. We buy from a 3rd party. You can ask the manufacturer directly for a replacement.”
4. “It’s normal for the tool to have an inconsistent movement”; me: “can you prove that by showing another one operating inconsistenly?” Djoser: “no, we will not open one up”

I think point 1 is probably correct. I almost never see a #warranty on tools. This makes it extremely important to buy tools from a shop with a reasonable return policy in case the tool is broken out of the box. Point 1 makes point 3 somewhat moot, but it’s worth noting that (I think) #EUlaw requires merchants to handle warranty claims on behalf of customers. I don’t think it’s generally legal for a shop to force you to deal with the maker directly.

The tool started operating more consistently the more I used it. So maybe it just needed to be “broken-in”. It’s still flawed and has some inconsistent movement but it may be good enough for my use so in the end I need not press the issue. Regardless, buyer beware. The tool could have been wholly dysfunctional garbage and #Djoser customers are forced to eat the loss.