[ProllyInfamous]

Really depends on the item/product, but for example I only purchase uniterruptable power supplies from CostCo, because if it breaks I can get a new one immediately without shipping fees.

For hard drives, I usually wait for OfficeMax sales/coupons, and then stock up.

Sometimes I have to drive to Atlanta (about three hours, round trip) but there are some incredible electronic parts stores in huge cities.

Regardless of what/where I purchase, I always open items inside the store (before leaving, near the customer service desk) because I have literally had "new" items contain hazmat returns (e.g. a "new" septic pump, a la feces).