don’t forget to check your local Craigslist, and
http://www.ganoksin.com/gnkurl/1qw will search more Craiglists for
you. Use general search terms “jewelery, jeweler, dental, festival,
show, ProPanel, tent, etc.” - try misspelling same, and search often.
Check the bottom of Ganoksin, SNAG, local jewelry and beader groups
and stores - I’ve picked up quite a few handy tools for 1/2 price -
even if shipped, cheaper than new. Also, call Rio customer service
and ask for a list of their discontinued and closeout items - last
time I was there (2 years ago) there’s a section in the waiting area
chock FULL of ionic cleaners, kilns, hand tools, etc. either demo’s,
returns or ?? (I picked up an electric soldering machine for 1/2
price simply because the instructions were VHS instead of the newer
DVDs.) They keep a typed list of these items (4-5 pages when I was
there) and will email it by request.
When buying used, get pictures of item before paying/traveling for
it, and request a recent pic of the item working, if it’s a torch or
other mechanical tool, or have the person selling demonstrate it. Not
guaranteed, but helps to cut down on buying broken tools with no
recourse. I’ve had very good luck with used tools and display items -
although I have not yet tested my $1600 Carlisle glass torch I picked
up for $550 while visiting CA. The biggest danger is buying stuff you
don’t need, simply because it’s 1/2 price and ‘you’ll need it
someday’ - my forming stakes, kiln, sand-blaster, glass blowing
equipment ALL fit into this category - but I’ll get there! You might
make a list of things that are first priority - the beginners kit
from Rio will provide you with an idea of the basics you’ll probably
need.
One last suggestion - if there’s a specific tool that you want, try
calling the manufacturer and politely requesting if they have any
returns, demos, etc. I picked up my Flourish tent for a significant
discount this way - someone returned it because of 2 pinholes it
took me months to locate (now sealed and invisible). Also google the
name of the tool and the phrase ‘used’ or ‘for sale’ to see if
anyone is listing it in a forum not covered here.
Good luck and happy tool hunting,
Sam Kaffine