Balancing Tool Quality and Budget as a Tradesperson

Hey folks, I’ve been mulling over this for a while and would love your take. As a forensic investigator, I’m used to relying on precise equipment, so I get how important quality tools are in any trade. But when you’re trying to stick to a tight budget, how do you decide where to splurge on the good stuff versus where you can save a bit? Do you have any tips for spotting tools that offer solid performance without breaking the bank? I’m curious about your experiences and what’s worked for you in the long run.