If your husband is into tools you could ask him which is better, to get a Craftsman or the most inexpensive one he can find. If he says the inexpensive ones then tell him next time you will go get them for him. Toys really suck when you're trying to do an adult job. Whatever he's into compare it to sewing. Hunting, well maybe he can use a BB gun then, fishing how about a Zebco rod with the closed reel used by people who only fish once or twice. You get the idea. You could offer to consider it your Christmas and Birthday gift(s). Someone suggested just going and getting without him knowing and asking for forgiveness after the fact - wow not a good idea. My ex did this and I resented it every time. If he can't trust you with money how can you expect him to trust you with other parts of your life? If you each have your own account then fine but if you share one then choices for bigger ticket items for either of you should be shared.