5 Places To Buy Woodworking Tools
If you are new to woodworking and wondering where to find some tools, or you’re an established woodworker and trying to expand your collection, I am hope to provide some helpful places that you can buy woodworking tools and woodworking machines.
Estate Sales
Estate sales are first on the list simply because they can be the easiest place to buy tools. Estate sales occur when someone passes away and their family decides to sell their belongings (estate) in efforts to obtain some income. Estate sales can be very affordable, or very expensive. Sometimes the family is wanting to sell tools and machines at a very high price as they are wanting to make as much money as possible. On the contrary, the surviving family may just be wanting to get the loved one’s belongings gone as soon as possible to reduce sadness and bad memories. I have found that the elderly men that passed away and had lots of tools have surviving spouses that are more interested in “cleaning out” rather than seeking a profit. Now, this is not the time for you to take advantage of someone in the way of getting “too good of a discount”, but is a way to find tools at affordable prices. Many of these tools you will find are older tools and are really well built.
Craigslist
Craigslist is still a great way to find used tools. While Craigslist is not nearly as popular as it used to be, there are still tools available for a great deal. Much of the older generation still use Craigslist in a way that everyone used to, and the older generation usually have older tools. These older tools may need some work or minor repair, but are built with very high quality parts and components. Keep an eye out on Craigslist because even though tools and woodworking machines may not be as prevalent on the site, when they do pop up, it may be the perfect chance for you to find a great deal!
eBay
eBay is similar to Craigslist, it used to be super popular but has sort of declined in traffic. However, eBay is still a great way to find used tools and machines because frankly, some people still know eBay as the only place to sell their used items, even in today’s times. eBay is also beneficial in that you can find both new and used tools. eBay also allows the option of shipping. While shipping costs will be high for large and heavy items, it is an option you could pursue.
New Tools
Buying new tools is probably the most “all-natural” way of purchasing, but can be the most costly. New tools are almost always going to be more expensive than buying used, but does have some positive aspects. When buying new tools you are able to guarantee the condition of the tool or machine and are able to potentially obtain a warranty on the machine. Places to buy new woodworking tools or machines include WoodCraft, Rockler, Lowes, Home Depot, and local shops. Each of these stores allow you to visit the location and physically see and touch the tool before you decide to purchase. This has it’s own set of benefits as you can truly see if the machine or tool is something you need and if it is going to suit your needs prior to making the purchase.
Friends & Family
Buying from friends and family is probably one of the less risky places to buy, and possibly the cheapest. If you’re a woodworker, chances are there is a close friend or family member that originally inspired you to get started in the craft. They may have extra tools or machines they are willing to gift you at little to no cost to help get you started. If they see that you are continually pursuing the woodworking hobby, they may be willing to sell you their used tools so that they can purchase newer models.
Whether you need a specific machine or exact tool, I hope this list of 5 places to buy woodworking machines will help you in your tool-purchasing journey!