What To Look Out For When Buying Pre Owned Tools

1. What To Look Out For When Buying Pre Owned Tools

2. If you’re setting up a DIY workshop at home, you might be tempted to buy pre-owned tools to combat the cost of buying new ones, which can quickly add up. While this can be a great way to save some money, there are a few things to be aware of when doing so. Things to be aware of before buying pre-owned tools It can be really helpful to understand the basic uses of the power tools you plan to buy, and to know which tasks they should and shouldn’t be used for. Fortunately, there is plenty of information online and in magazines to help you arm yourself with this knowledge, and many sites selling tools online include detailed descriptions of each product that they sell. You can even call into your local store and discuss the different brands and models with the staff there.

3. What you should look for in specific tools Once you’ve got sound knowledge about the tools you would like to buy and how they work, you’ll be much better placed to know whether the pre-owned tools you find are going to be able to fulfil your needs. For starters, when it comes to power tools, you need to know whether they work when plugged in or with a fully charged battery, and used hand tools should be in good condition, too, especially the ones with blades.

4. Let’s take a closer look at pre-owned hand tools: Hand tools: Take time to carefully inspect any used hand tools that you buy, and check for signs of rust and corrosion, cracks or any other damage that might prevent the tool from being used safely and with good effect. If the tool has any moving parts, check that these move freely and as they should.

5. Bladed tools: Bladed tools are most commonly used for woodworking tasks, and when buying such tools, it’s important to check the blade edge. If a blade hasn’t been sharpened properly, it will almost certainly affect the edge the user is working on, and some indicators of an improperly sharpened blade include marks from a grinder, or a bluish discoloration hinting that the steel may have been overheated at some point. While tools with damaged blades can be repaired, you’ll need to weigh up the cost and inconvenience of this before making your purchase.

6. What you definitely shouldn’t invest in, however, are chisels that have become shortened due to years of being ground down. Power tools: Firstly, look closely at the plug and cord of any pre-owned power tools you plan to buy, and check for signs of fraying, exposed, or loose wires; in some instances, wires might even be taped up. if you see signs of this, pass them by, and damaged plugs are a big no-no, too. If the plug is in good condition, be sure to test it before buying.

7. Because batteries don’t last forever, even rechargeable ones, it’s important that you check how long the battery of a used power tool will run for before buying it. Batteries aren’t cheap, so if you need to buy a new one, it might be better to invest in a new power tool. If you’re buying pre-owned cordless power tools, it’s essential that you only do so from someone who can tell you its age. When you do run a used power tool, listen out for any strange noises and take note of how it feels when you’re holding it. If it feels wobbly, this could mean that a blade or shaft is loose, and if the motor vent looks damaged or emits any smoke, this is a definite warning sign.

8. Lastly, check the housing of the tool for any missing screws or parts, and other signs of damage such as cracks. If you’re going to be using a tool a lot, it might be better to invest in a new, branded one, but if you’re a casual DIYer or on a very tight budget, pre-owned tools can be a good alternative, provided you follow the advice given above.