Many tools don’t lose much utility after they’ve been used a couple times. Think of your classic hammer… after a few strikes, it’s pretty much the same right? That’s why, as you go to stock your toolbox, consider turning to used tools.
Many hand tools have lifetime warranties. Craftsman, a brand owned by Sears, is famous for their Craftsman lifetime warranty that transfers owners. This makes buying used tools an even safer bet.
Craigslist
Tools are often heavy, which means you will end up paying more in shipping than you save in buying used, which makes local Craigslist sites very very useful. Craigslist has a special section in their “For Sale/Wanted” section for “Tools,” so search for your tools in that category.
When you search, start specific and move backwards. If you really want a Ryobi Compound Mitre Saw, search for that and be sure to select “entire post.” If there are no results, remove the brand name. Compound Mitre Saw. If there still are no results, check back in a few days.
When buying on Craigslist, be smart about your transaction to avoid being scammed. Only hand over cash after you’ve seen the item and it matches the condition you expected. Test it if you can, to make sure it’s in good working order (or broken if that’s what you were looking for). As always, be careful in selecting a meeting location and time. 99.9% of the time you’ll be OK, but it pays to be vigilant.
In addition to finding the tools themselves on Craigslist, you can use it to find local garage sales.
Yard, Garage, Estate Sales
Yard, garage, and estate sales are also a great place to find used quality tools because the cheap stuff often breaks down before they get that far! Much like with Craigslist purchases, you want to be able to determine quality before you buy the item and that’ll be easier if the sale occurs outside the owner’s home (where there are electrical outlets). Stick to hand tools and you can almost never go wrong.
Pawn Shops
You can think of pawn shops are permanent garage sales, where people bring in their goods in return for a short term loan. Pawn shops aren’t the seedy businesses they’re often made out to be, they’re often very nice and have a wide selection of used tools for sale. If there’s a particular item you’re looking for, call ahead to see if they have it. Pawn shop owners are very knowledgeable about their stock and the condition of various items, because it’s used as collatoral on loans!
Habitat for Humanity ReStore
Habitat for Humanity runs ReStore resale outlets that often sells building materials, supplies, and tools at a big discount. In addition to used materials, they also sell some brand new products but the real bargains can be found in the used sections. These tools are often donations to Habitat for Humanity so in addition to getting a great deal, you’re helping out a good cause as well. Check this page to find a location near you.
You should be able to get almost any used tool you need through one of those methods.
(Photo: furryscalyman)
Jim is the principal editor of Home Tool Review team. 