Did someone say mechanic? lol
I havent shopped for a compressor in a long time. Its funny you ask for mechanics, because most will tell you that you need some crazy 5 horse 80 gallon compressor to use air tools, which is wrong.
The biggest thing to look at when shopping for one is the CFM @ 90psi and the tank size. All cheaper compressors are going to be single stage and be noisy, but they should last a LONG time under light duty like a home garage.
The 33 gallon craftsman at sears seems to be good for the money. Compare it to the 17 gallon they sell, and for just a little more money you get a much better compressor in the 33 gallon.
There may be better deals to be gotten on the internet, but then you gott pay shipping, and thats not gonna be cheap for one of these things. I would compare prices and specs of compressors at sears, home depot, lowes, and any other place you may have locally.
As far as I know, theres isnt much of a difference in pump quality in consumer grade compressors at the lower price ranges. I have used craftsman, husky, and camble hausfeld small compressors, all with no issues.
Again, the most important spec for running automotive air tools like an impact gun, air ratchet, etc.. is the CFM @ 90psi and the tank size. Get the largest CFM and tank size your budget will allow you, and you wont be disappointed.
If you have any other questions or particular models you were looking at,just let me know Howard.