MOTM

> 2) Heat gun

One warning: I bought one from Jameco and I don't particularly like it. It
smokes when used on its higher setting, which I find disconcerting.

> Also, I tried buying some stuff from Sears, and I'm not sure if I should
> return it before I open it up because since I haven't started building yet and
> I don't know what the difference is between quality tools and crap.

The Craftsmen brand sold by Sears used to be very good, and the set of
crescent wrenches that I bought from them a year or two ago (not for MOTM
work) seems fine.
 
> Can 
> anyone suggest something specific in the way of chain nose pliers and diagonal
> cutters for MOTM type work?
 
For cutters or pliers, Xcelite makes great stuff. Get a pair of cutters that
have the narrow blades and flush cutting for trimming leads on PC boards. Go
to www.jameco.com and search for Jameco #146712. I've built about eight MOTM
kits with these. 

Got a good temperature-controlled soldering iron?

And yes, as everyone says, the $2.95 lead bender is a must-buy.

--Adam