Who Should Buy Used Machine Tools?

For hobbyists or other individual purchasers, used machine tools can be the right choice. Whether to buy new or used depends on what you need and what you're buying the equipment for, among other things. Here's a quick, general guide to who should buy used and who should buy new.

If you have been considering woodworking or metalworking as a hobby but haven't had much practical experience, used machine tools are a great choice. You'll save a considerable amount of money over new equipment if you buy used, so if you change your mind later, you won't have invested as much in the hobby. If you decide to sell the equipment, the price drop won't be as severe as it would be from new to used. Also, newer equipment may have more features and options, but people new to the craft will probably not be working on projects that will require more advanced machinery.

If you need the power that machine tools provide, but don't have as much to spend, then used is also better. Buying used allows you to get the functionality of CNC fabrication machines without the large expenditures. It's also a good way to get the extra equipment you might need to turn your hobby into a business on a budget.

If you've been working professionally for a while, or just have the money to spend, then new machinery may be the right choice for you. Buying new means having many more options. A new machine is also more likely to include more robust features. A new machine also comes with a warranty, which means you can return it if something goes wrong. If you just don't feel comfortable buying equipment that isn't under warranty, then you should buy new.

There is more to consider than whether the equipment is used or new, of course. Where you buy your used products can make a big difference. When you buy used at an auction or direct sale, you have no guarantees that what you're buying will be as advertised. Buying from used dust collectors and used machinery dealer or retailer, on the other hand, is more like buying new.

There is also the option to buy refurbished used metal working tools, which is in a different class entirely. Refurbished equipment has been used before, but it has also been restored by a professional. This option is the middle ground option as you'll get machinery that works like new machinery but at a lower cost.