Looking to save some money on your next tool purchase? Consider reconditioned or re-manufactured. These tools, for whatever reason, were returned to the manufacturer for repair, with some type of defect or missing part(s) or maybe it didn’t perform like the customer expected. They can not be resold as new.  These tools differ from those being sold as used because they have been checked over, fixed and brought  back to manufacturers standards. Used tools are just that, used. You really don’t know what your getting when you buy used. You’ll be taking a much greater risk that it will not perform as expected or it won’t last. Also, used tools typically don’t include any type of warranty. However, if you’re at a yard sale some Sunday afternoon and you see a power tool that looks in pretty good condition, try it out right there if you can. Never pass up a good deal!  Especially if the price is dirt cheap. You may also be tempted to buy tools at your local pawn shop. Don’t! Most of those tools have been abused. I would never recommend buying from pawn shops.

Refurbished,re-manufactured or reconditioned tools can be bought at substantial savings through reputable companies like CPO Tools, Tool King, or even on Amazon. When deciding on your tool, find out as much about it as you can. Best thing to do is read reviews and customers comments of those who have purchased the tool in question. Next, get a first hand look and feel by going to your local big box store or hardware outlet. Take note of the price and then compare the same item on one of the above companies website. If you find the same item, at reasonable discount ( 20%-40% less then retail ) then it would be a good choice to go with the refurbished/remanufactured source. Don’t forget to include all shipping and handling charges as well!

I think that you will find buying reconditioned, re-manufactured, or refurbished tools will allow you to get a better, higher quality grade of tool for a much lower price then if you bought it new. As a professional cabinet maker, I know that the tools I buy and use for cabinet making must be built to withstand daily use, be of high quality, and perform as expected.

Here’s one example comparison for the Bostitch U/CPACK300 3-Tool and Compressor Combo Kit.

Bostich CPACK300 3-Tool Combo Kit

Clamps

There is no more important piece of equipment in a cabinet shop then clamps! It’s a safe bet that the cabinetmaker your buying a gift for has clamps. The thing here is it’s never enough! Cabinetmakers never have enough clamps and can always use more, always! The best and most common sizes that are used routinely are the 6″, 12″, and 24″. The Bessey company produces a top quality clamp in a variety of sizes, styles, and functionality. This is the only brand I use or recommend. Watch video or read my post on these clamps.

Kreg Pocket Hole Jig

Kreg Jig Master System

This may seem redundant because I’ve already posted on the Kreg Jig but I believe this tool should be a gift to consider. Not that expensive, it will add many more options to the cabinetmaker when considering assembly of cabinets. It allows face frame joinery without the use of bar clamps. Also, this type of construction can be applied to many situations and help the cabinetmaker in a variety of areas. See video and more comments in my post on the Kreg Jig.

Read my posts on other tools for cabinetmaking. Any one of them would make a great gift for the cabinet maker in your life.

Merry Christmas and happy holidays to all.