My interest in hand tools started at the beginning of the pandemic. Unfortunately that meant I couldn't look for cheaper tools at in person events and eBay isn't a good place for deals, just availability. Are there flea markets or other places in the NC area that could have people selling hand tools? I've been to Cooks Flea Market in Winston Salem but I don't know where to look for others.
Where to look for hand tools in person?
- Thread starter Slowbad
- Start date
Estate sales are the best. Most are losers but every once in a while you find one that has a great selection.
It depends on what you're looking for.
If vintage user quality tools then junk shops and flea markets, especially ones with outdoor stalls. And the rattier the junk shop is the better your chances of finding one cheap.
I rarely buy anything at an "antique" shop and only once or twice at an estate sale.
Usually stick to my hard cap of $25 for planes... A little more for harder to find types. I also don't buy anything made after 1947.
Almost all of these tools came from flea markets and junk shops....
If vintage user quality tools then junk shops and flea markets, especially ones with outdoor stalls. And the rattier the junk shop is the better your chances of finding one cheap.
I rarely buy anything at an "antique" shop and only once or twice at an estate sale.
Usually stick to my hard cap of $25 for planes... A little more for harder to find types. I also don't buy anything made after 1947.
Almost all of these tools came from flea markets and junk shops....
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I’m near Winston and have some tools for sale.
Damn! My shoulders hurt just looking at all that.
Saws, a plane, yankee drill, misc
Consider adopting a go/no-go qualifier. If the plane iron has no rust or rust pitting then the plane could be considered.
Estate sales are hit or miss. Mostly miss, but if you don't go fishing, its guaranteed that you won't catch fish.
Estate sales are hit or miss. Mostly miss, but if you don't go fishing, its guaranteed that you won't catch fish.
Lost in Time Antique Mall in Winston-Salem (Marketplace Mall on Peters Creek Pkwy) occasionally has some decent stuff. I've also bought a few things from a place in Kernersville called Cooper's Vintage Village on Hwy 66.
If you can, take a look at what Mike has for sale
If you can, take a look at what Mike has for sale
No wonder why I can't find any. COLLECTORS!
Antique malls, flea markets, estate sales, horse trading with fellow tool hoarders, y’all know who you are, and at one time eBay. I also recommend the Mid Western Tool Collectors Association. going to one of their events can cause convulsions and spontaneous dickering, and a disruption in household cash flow. But what a way to go.
I have a NCWW member visiting today... he's leaving with a few tools from the collection.
No wonder why I can't find any. COLLECTORS!
Had a great time at it too! I'll post a few pics when I'm settled at home for the evening.
For OP: it's worth getting to know the people near you for many many reasons. You may not leave with tools but most are willing to teach you and let you use them for a project. At least in my experience.
It was a great time indeed. I made a new friend, got to talk shop, gave a little instruction, cut myself....... Awesome morning.
Check out the Midwest Tool Collectors Association (MWTCA). We have a chapter in NC and there is normally a swap and sale session before/after each meeting. The meetings rotate around the state. A large get-together happens most years at the September meeting in Raleigh.
Thanks everyone for the heads up of where to look. Right now I’ve got most of my basics covered for hand tools. I’m specifically looking for a rabbet/moving fillister plane and a plow plane or combination plane.
Mike, I’ll PM you soon about taking a look at what you have for sale.
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Mike, I’ll PM you soon about taking a look at what you have for sale.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Steven,
I PM'ed you - I have a #78 that I am getting ready to sell... it is tuned-up and ready to work.
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