I did take my lawn mower to them for repair and blade sharpening last year. Worst service ever! Took them over 2 weeks to let me know that the engine was shot and beyond repair. And that was after I stopped in 5 times asking about it.
I am a magician and do by some of my supplies at the Ace. They have a nice selection of rope that I pefer over Home Depot. They also have Harness rings, which Home Depot does not. I have fun at their bag sale too. And they always have a sale table with stuff I might need so i buy it.
Well, the thing about Ace hardware stores is that they're franchise stores. Each store has an owner. They do vary from store to store, no doubt. I guess I have a good one here.