I'm definitely partial to this store so my review will definitely be influenced by my bias towards local, small, independent businesses. Anyone who has ever met the owner, Dan cannot deny the fact that his absolutely magnificent store front is not only a staple in the community, but I'd go so far as to say it's a landmark that everyone local or visiting should stop in at least twice.
Dan himself has an infectiously positive attitude, ready to deliver a highly memorable experience and always with a smile and a thank you. He's very active within the business district and I'd definitely accuse him of doing way too many helpful things for his neighboring businesses and community.
In addition to the devotion he has for running the finest hardware store this side of the globe (a slight exaggeration), Dan himself can be found performing acts of service such as clearing snow from sidewalks, mowing lawns, performing repairs and he even sourced PPE for the local rescue squad during the supply chain shortages that followed the pandemic shutdown. (Sorry Dan, I know you hate taking any credit for that.) All testament to his character and perhaps a nod to the town's slogan: "Hometown Friendly."
I met Dan briefly when my wife and I were renovating our first storefront for her boutique. I needed a simple tool and he was conveniently located so I stopped in and was absolutely shocked by the abundance of tools, hardware and other collectibles available. The place is bursting at the seams and you could easily get lost in there for an hour and still not see everything. We're currently renovating our new storefront and every time I need something, no matter how small or specific, somehow he has it on hand.
My final note is on the Get a Grip storefront and the curb appeal of his sidewalk displays. It's hard to miss this place passing through downtown Washington. Seasonal items and holiday decor are continuously updated and I love the year-round "Santa's Workshop" located in the backroom - very nostalgic. While it may not be for everyone, its presence alone contributes to the overall vibrancy of the downtown shopping experience. As a neighboring small business, we are tremendously grateful for Dan and what Get a Grip brings...
   Read moreI have been to Get a Grip twice now, the first time in the middle of a crisis where my phone died in my business, as a new business with a whole new phone system, it was a huge inconvenience for me to have it die within a few months of opening, I called over to Get a Grip and Dan ran a new phone straight over hooked it up and got it running in a matter of seconds, when I asked how much he said, we can work that out later. The second time, I was looking for a present for a girlfriend (friend who is a girl) of mine, he has a great selection of primitives and antiques so finding something was not hard...choosing what to get was! Thanks for all of the great inventory and personal care. If you have not visited this store, you must...The owner (Dan) is stupendous and the guys and gals working are helpful and knowledgeable. Just an excerpt of the review before me, Something is only worth what another person is willing to pay...get over yourself, not everything that...
   Read moreMy favorite place to buy vintage/used tools (and more đ)! I've been coming here for a few years now and I always leave with something. Dan and staff are friendly, helpful, and always willing to talk tools.
I live two hours away, and will still head up just to look around.
In my experience, they always go the extra mile to help out customers & make sure you leave with what you want at a fair price.
In response to the review about masks...I was in the store today (3/31) and everyone was wearing a mask and keeping a safe distance. I have no connection or affiliation to this business other than being a satisfied customer.
Get a Grip and More is a true gem. Preserving history, and a call-back to times past where you can browse, shoot the breeze, and have a nice time.
Whether you're looking for vintage/used tools, antiques, or general oddities....it's a...
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