Save Money on Tools with E-bay, Craftsman Club, and Harbor Freight
If you're like me, you want more tools than you can afford to buy. Some of these hand tools may not even get used all that often but they are simply nice to have. There are several ways to build a nice power tool collection without spending a lot.
Discount Tool Shops like Harbor Freight Tools or Online Auctions like E-bay are a great way for buy tools.
Discount Tool Stores
One way to save money on tools is to shop a discount tool store or liquidator. Harbor Freight Tools loosely fits into this category.E-bay
E-bay is a great place to look for tools. While off name brand shopping on ebay can be tricky, the brand name tools are available and for a substantial savings. Used Craftsman hand tools can be as much as 50% off retail price. Power tools can also be bought for great deals. Just make sure you read each description carefully and that the E-Bay seller has a good feedback history. Also be sure to take into account the shipping charges. Most hand tools are fairly heavy and what can be saved on E-bay in cost can be quickly lost in shipping charges.
E-bay is also a great place to look for harder to find or more specialized tools such as machinery tools.
Used Tools - Estate Sales, Yard Sales, Auctions, Thrift Stores
Used tools can be a tremendous value. Often nice quality used tools can be found at your neighborhood yard sale, moving sale or estate sale. Estate sales can be some of best places to find tools that are in great shape for a good price. Don't be afraid of older looking hand tools. They are probably made better than anything you will find on the market today.
Clearance
Clearance sections are another way to save money on hand tools and power tools. Almost every Sear's has a clearance section in their Craftsman tool department. The shelf is typically in the back and is not always marked. The stock varies from one store to the next and tends to change every few days. The clearance items range are usually Craftsman tools but can also include brands like Dewalt and Milwaukee. They may have been put on clearance because of some minor damage, customer returns, used tools, display models, or close outs. The items should be carefully inspected for unacceptable damage but good deals are often readily available.
Tool Store Mailing Lists and Clubs
Both Craftsman and Harbor Freight Tools have money saving clubs and discount mailing lists. Member receive notice off special sales. The Craftsman club offers special sale prices every few months. Harbor Freight Tools has both e-mail and postal mailing lists that have money saving coupons.