I picked up a group of older chisels and other hand tools for $50 CAD. The chisel stamps appear to include several Sheffield makers, and some may be quite old. Does that sound like a decent buy, assuming they need some sharpening?
Was $50 CAD a good price for these old chisels?
Asked by f8x
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That sounds like a strong price if the chisels are usable and the blades are not badly damaged. Older Sheffield tools have a good reputation, and the rest of the tools in the lot add value too. The exact condition matters more than the age stamp, though.
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For $50 CAD, I would be pretty pleased with the bundle. Even if a few pieces need reshaping or a proper sharpening, that can be worthwhile if you are comfortable doing the work. Just check for deep rust, cracks, and enough blade left to sharpen.
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The scoop-edged tools could be a nice bonus if you have a use for them, since unusual profiles can be harder to find secondhand. They are not automatically useful to every woodworker, though, so I would judge the purchase mainly by the condition and types of tools you will actually use.
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One small caution: dates inferred from old logos and handle shapes can be uncertain. I would not pay extra just because a tool is thought to be pre-1900. At this price, the practical test is whether the edges can be restored and the tools suit your work.
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