This is a time when most woodworkers are working under a tight budget, so naturally getting new woodworking tools can cost more than one can usually afford. The ultimate question now, is, should you buy used woodworking tools? The general opinion concerning used thing is not the most highest and sets a point of logical doubt. This article will show you how you can buy used woodworking tools, by doing a little research and keeping an eye out for good bargains.
It comes down to how thoroughly you have checked the tools. Used equipment for sale online may have prices that are a lot lower than what you will get for new ones. The best option is to get them from a colleague or any local shop, where you can check out the tools in person. This helps in reducing chances of your money being wasted over a fraudulent deal. If this is not possible, only then should you go for online purchases. Keep in mind, used tools may not be the most durable ones, but can mostly work for the money you pay for them. Comparing prices is another important thing that should be kept in mind when you are planning on, going for used woodworking tools.
Comparison charts of used woodworking tools. Do not pay more than this prices.
Where to Look:
Where you should start looking depends on what it is that you actually need. If you are just getting started in the woodworking game and are not very fussy over the kind of tools you want, the best place to go shopping for used woodworking tools are estate sales and garage sales. Usually when some people start woodworking, they buy tools that do little more than collect dust and take up space in your work area. It is best to use your money to buy something that you will actually be using, instead of wasting it on something that will probably never come in handy. But, when the same kind of person is selling those hardly used woodworking tools, it is absolute bliss for the buyers. You are likely to find an almost-new band saw or radial-arm saw or smaller tools like a jigsaw or a belt sander. Keeping an open mind is the key when visiting these sales, as you may have to go through a lot of junk to find a useful bargain.
If it is a specific tool that you are looking for, you should give classified ads in newspapers a shot as well as making a reasonable search online. You can search by using keywords for a drill press or table saw that you need, together with the mortising attachment that you desire.
Stick to What You Know:
There are a many cheaper tools that are manufactured under different name plates on the market. Many of them are built in particular for buyers on a tight budget. While they may be appealing and a perfectly sweet deal from the outset, it is often hard to align them properly and to make cuts that require a higher degree of precision. Miter saws are an excellent example. There are many kinds of miter saws that are sold for under $150 that look apparently shiny and offer a useful bargain. But it turns out to be a complete waste of money when that same miter saw cannot not hold a precise miter or bevel angle when cutting trim boards or crown molding.
If possible, you should stick to the brand names you are aware of having good reputations in the woodworking industry. When you need replace a power switch or to service a tool you bought, it is more likely that you will be able to get the parts or service that you require on a renowned brand tool and not on a knock-off.
Why are they selling?
Everyone has a hard time letting go of things that are a part of their favorite hobby or can help them monetize their skills. So, it makes you curious, why would somebody be selling their used woodworking tools? If you come across a tool that seems like it would be a perfect for your needs, you should to ask the seller the reason behind selling the tool. It if possible that the tool is being sold off because the owner bought it in at an impulse and thought he would get around to using it later or it might be being sold after the death of someone who used to enjoy woodworking but is no longer with the seller. There is a possibility of finding out what potential problems there might be with the tool, this way you know whether it is worth your money or not.
Testing the Tool:
Common sense dictates that you should never buy any equipment, without trying it out first. This can be difficult when the tool you need is at a distance from your shop, or if the seller has a first come first served deal going on. But resist the urge to buy it immediately, no matter how provocative the deal, do not buy it through the phone, email or without having tested the tool first.
When you do get your hands on the tool, make sure to check all used woodworking tools for any possible damage and be thorough about it. Check all parts and accessories, be sure they are in working order as well as all of the proper operation of all safety features. You should also ask for owner’s manuals or documentation that may have been given with the tool, these can help you in learning how to use the tool. Do not hesitate in asking if you can try out the tool and use it just for a little bit. You can also bring along a few pieces of stock, so that you can be sure that the tool you are buying is suitable for your needs.
Negotiating Prices:
After testing the tool and making sure that is worth your money, you can negotiate a price that is suitable for both you and the seller. You can bring any possible deficiencies, such as dents or signs of abuse. This can help you reach a more amicable price.
