I usually buy based on what type of hook I'm looking for. Brands don't matter as long as the style is right. If I'm not happy with that brand I will try another and if I like that style/brand I'll stock it up in all the sizes I think I'll use. I have mostly TMC hooks as they seem to be the most popular brand stocked in my area but I have some Daichii hooks I got on sale as well as some partridge hooks. Funny thing though, a lot of the hooks I really like seem to always be the discontinued ones... like the TMC 205bl... if anyone has any they don't want, I'll take em...LOL