Saving money, regardless of whether you’re a rookie or a professional, is going to be a top priority if you’re in the woodworking business. Not because it’s so expensive necessarily, but only because in this craft, there are so many legit financial shortcuts you can take that will leave you with a decent piece of self-made furniture at a fraction of the price of a store-bought one. Consider the price, sales conditions and the supplier very carefully.
There are numerous options when it comes to looking for good tools. Where should you look?
It’s always a great thing to save money on used equipment but also crucial not to do so indiscriminately. Don’t simply buy the cheapest, and don’t buy the first used item you find on the internet. In fact, the internet is possibly the best place to shop as you’re not limited by geography which means your powers of research are markedly enhanced. On the other hand, direct human interface is also helpful and this you can find at second hand shops. Never forget to check the price of a used tool with that of a new one.
The tools of the professional woodworker must work harder and therefore need to be tougher. They are more expensive than hobby tools but in both cases it is necessary to shop around and consider the options of new vs. used tools.
Tools that don’t work or only work partially aren’t a good investment, so if you’re going to be buying used tools, you must buy them from a place that sells used tools professionally. Your standards will be easier met this way as the quality description of the item will more accurately reflect the reality, if the seller is reputable and knowledgeable enough to know what they’re selling.
What tools must you buy to get the job done?
What used tools should you buy without running risk of getting yourself some rubbish? The age of the tools don’t necessarily matter since they could have been reconditioned. The motor could have been replaced, making the machine almost as good as new.
If the original motor is still in and the machine is older than 15 years, it might not be a good idea to buy it. With a very much-reduced life span the machine would not last long anymore and you would have thrown away your money. That’s the last thing you want, so don’t dazzled by the low price. Bear in mind that the tool should last a long time, so its quality shouldn’t be marginal.
The next issue is the availability of spare parts. Can the blades be sharpened any further, or need I buy a new set – and will that set be readily available on the market, at a good price?
It is always good practice to compare different makes. If you want to buy a circular saw for example, you could compare a Dewalt with a Makita saw of similar specs.
You’d need to ensure the possibility of a 14-day money back guarantee. You shouldn’t need to be burdened with a tool that stops working after a short time. A seller refusing to give such a guarantee is not honest. It’s generally a rule that sellers of new tools give your money back and offer free shipping.
Before choosing any tools visit Woodworkingplanspro.net for tips and listings of new and pre-owned equipment from trustworthy manufacturers and suppliers.