It depends a lot on the shop. Depending on competition and market, they may not have the volume of turnover that permits buying in quantities that will allow similar pricing. The big box will always be able to buy in bulk, thus better costs. I try to frequent the local sporting goods, pro shop, hardware, etc. Since the closest big box is about a half hour away, it is almost always cheaper to go local for one or two items (just based on gas prices).