SBH wrote:
What is the general consensus regarding the purchase of reconditioned tools
vs. new? Yes, I know new is new but I see most, if not all, manufacturers
offer the complete warranty and incentives with a reconditioned tool as you
would a new. Of course, name brand is a consideration, therefore, let's
assume it's a name brand item such as Dewalt, Ridgid, Delta, Bosch, PC,
Milwaukee, Makita and so on. but not interested in Ryobi, Craftsman, Stanley
and Skil, though, they may have some higher end tools, I prefer what the
pros use. Therefore, would you purchase a reconditioned tool?



Depends on what it is, what the discount is, and where you buy it. I'd
never touch a reconditioned from a civilian outlet like Big Lots,
because it is most likely a service return that may or may not have been
properly repaired. But from the manufacturer's own 'factory outlet' (if
I was sure it in fact was such), probably. Mostly depends on how much of
a price break, on how expensive a tool. On a hundred-dollar tool, I
won't risk my time for ten bucks discount. If it is several hundred, and
the discount is a hundred, it looks like a better gamble. A key factor
to consider is the risk if it fails- is this for personal or hobby use,
or do you use it to put bread on the table, and customers will be
standing there tapping their foot if it fails? Not always a deal
breaker, if you KNOW you can immediately run out to the Borg or Sears
and buy a replacement if needed, and write it off to the luck of the draw.

All of the above applies if you are buying tools for yourself. If you
are providing tools to a crew, best to regard them as consumables, and
buy 'good enough'. More will grow legs or get abused to death, than have
actual quality failures. IMHO, 'must provide own tools' (other than real
high-dollar specialty tools) is the way to go with mobile employees.
Gives them an incentive to treat them well and keep track of them, even
if you have to pay the employee a little more.

--
aem sends...