Buying Used Drills: Smart Second-Hand Purchases

Introduction

Power drills are essential tools for both DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors. However, quality drills can be expensive, leading many to consider purchasing used models. Buying second-hand drills can be an excellent way to save money while still acquiring a reliable tool, but it requires knowledge and careful inspection to avoid costly mistakes.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about buying used drills, from determining if it’s worth it to knowing exactly what to look for during inspection. Whether you’re a budget-conscious homeowner or a professional looking to expand your toolkit economically, this information will help you make informed decisions when purchasing pre-owned drilling equipment.

Is Buying Used Drills Worth It?

The question of whether buying used drills is worthwhile depends on several factors, including your budget, intended use, and comfort level with second-hand tools. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you decide:

Financial Considerations

Used drills typically cost 40-70% less than their new counterparts, representing significant savings. For example, a $150 professional-grade drill might be available for $60-90 on the second-hand market. This price difference makes used drills particularly attractive for:

– DIYers on tight budgets
– Beginners who aren’t ready to invest in premium tools
– Professionals needing backup tools
– Those who require a specialized drill for limited use

Quality and Durability Factors

Many professional-grade drills are built to last for years of heavy use. Brands like Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Makita are known for their durability, making their used models potentially better investments than new budget brands. As one tool enthusiast on Reddit noted: “A used high-end drill often outperforms and outlasts a new budget model, even with some wear already on it.”

Environmental Impact

Purchasing used tools contributes to sustainability by:
– Extending the useful life of existing products
– Reducing manufacturing demand and associated environmental impacts
– Keeping functional tools out of landfills

As one Facebook Marketplace buyer mentioned: “Beyond the financial reasons, I like the environmental aspect of buying used and the ease of machine repair on the older tools.”

What to Look for When Buying Used Drills

Knowing what to examine when considering a used drill can mean the difference between finding a bargain and wasting money on a tool that’s near the end of its life.

Brand Reputation

Not all drills are created equal, and brand reputation matters significantly when buying used. Professional-grade brands known for durability include:

– Milwaukee
– DeWalt
– Makita
– Bosch (Professional line)
– Hilti
– Festool

These brands typically use higher-quality components and more robust construction, making them better candidates for second-hand purchase than budget brands like Ryobi, Black & Decker, or Harbor Freight tools, which are designed with more limited lifespans.

Age and Model Considerations

When evaluating a used drill, consider:

– Technological advancements: Newer models often have better battery technology, more efficient motors, and improved features
– Availability of replacement parts: Older models may have limited parts availability
– Battery compatibility: For cordless drills, ensure replacement batteries are still manufactured

Signs of Abuse vs. Normal Wear

Learn to distinguish between normal wear and potential abuse:

– Normal wear: Light scuffs, minor paint wear on contact points, slightly worn chuck jaws
– Potential abuse: Cracked housing, bent shafts, excessive heat damage, missing parts, heavy impact marks

Used Drill Inspection Checklist

When examining a used drill in person, use this comprehensive checklist to ensure you’re getting a functional tool with reasonable remaining life:

Physical Inspection

– Examine the housing for cracks, especially around screw holes and battery connections
– Check that all screws are present and tight
– Inspect the chuck for smooth operation, ensuring it opens and closes properly
– Look for signs of repair, such as different colored plastic or excess adhesive
– Test the weight balance – it should feel solid without loose internal components

Operational Tests

– Run the drill at various speeds to check for smooth acceleration
– Listen for unusual noises like grinding, clicking, or whining
– Test the directional switch (forward/reverse) functionality
– Check for excessive vibration or wobbling when running
– For hammer drills, test the hammer function for proper operation

Battery and Charging System (For Cordless Models)

– Check battery charge retention
– Inspect battery contacts for corrosion
– Test the charger functionality
– Verify battery installation and removal is smooth
– Ask about the battery’s age and charging history

Chuck and Bit Holding

– Test the chuck’s ability to grip bits tightly
– Check for wobble when a bit is installed
– Ensure the chuck key works properly (for keyed chucks)
– Verify the chuck opens to the stated maximum capacity

Inspection Area	What to Check	Red Flags
Motor	Smooth operation, consistent speed	Burning smell, excessive heat, irregular speed
Chuck	Grips bits firmly, opens/closes smoothly	Wobbling bits, stuck mechanism, excessive play
Housing	Intact with normal wear marks	Cracks, missing pieces, signs of impact damage
Batteries (cordless)	Holds charge, connects securely	Swelling, corrosion, fails to hold charge
Cord (corded)	Intact insulation, secure connection	Fraying, exposed wires, loose connection

Best Places to Buy Used Drills

Where you shop for used drills can significantly impact both price and quality. Here are the most common sources for second-hand drills, with their respective advantages and disadvantages:

Online Marketplaces

Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and eBay offer wide selections of used drills:

– Advantages: Large selection, competitive pricing, ability to negotiate
– Disadvantages: Limited inspection before purchase, potential for misrepresentation, no warranties

As one Reddit user noted: “Facebook Marketplace can be hit or miss. I’ve found amazing deals on barely used professional tools, but you need to be quick and know what you’re looking for.”

Pawn Shops

Pawn shops frequently stock used power tools:

– Advantages: Immediate availability, ability to inspect before purchase, some offer limited warranties
– Disadvantages: Often higher prices than private sales, variable quality control

Estate Sales and Auctions

These can be treasure troves for used tools:

– Advantages: Potential for significant bargains, often well-maintained tools from serious users
– Disadvantages: Competitive bidding can drive up prices, limited time for inspection

Tool Reconditioning Retailers

Some retailers specialize in refurbished tools:

– Advantages: Professional inspection and repair, often include limited warranties
– Disadvantages: Higher prices than private sales, limited selection

New vs. Used Drill Price Comparison

Understanding the potential savings can help you decide whether buying used is worthwhile for your situation. This comparison shows typical price differences between new and used drills across different quality tiers:

Drill Type/Quality	Average New Price	Average Used Price	Typical Savings
Entry-level cordless (12V)	$50-100	$20-45	50-60%
Mid-range cordless (18-20V)	$120-180	$50-90	45-60%
Professional cordless (18-20V)	$180-300	$80-150	45-55%
Corded drill (standard)	$60-120	$25-50	50-65%
Hammer drill (professional)	$150-350	$70-180	45-60%

Pros and Cons of Buying Used Drills

Pros of Buying Used Drills

– Significant cost savings (typically 40-70% off retail price)
– Access to higher-quality tools within a limited budget
– Environmental benefits through reuse
– Potential to find discontinued models with desirable features
– No depreciation hit when you’re the second owner
– Older professional models may have more metal components than newer equivalents

Cons of Buying Used Drills

– No manufacturer warranty (unless purchased from authorized dealers)
– Unknown history and potential hidden problems
– Batteries in cordless models may have reduced capacity
– Outdated technology compared to newer models
– May require immediate maintenance or parts replacement
– Limited recourse if the tool fails shortly after purchase

As one Reddit commenter pointed out: “For one, you will not get any warranty whatsoever nor after-sales service unless purchased from authorized dealers or straight from the company.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do drills typically last?

Professional-grade drills from reputable manufacturers can last 5-10 years with regular use and proper maintenance. Budget brands may last 2-5 years under similar conditions.

Are cordless or corded drills better to buy used?

Corded drills are generally safer used purchases as they don’t have batteries that degrade over time. When buying used cordless drills, battery condition becomes a critical factor that can significantly impact value.

What’s a fair price for a used drill?

A fair price typically ranges from 30-60% of the original retail price, depending on age, condition, and whether all original components (case, charger, batteries) are included.

Should I buy a used drill if I’m a beginner?

For beginners, a used drill can be an excellent starting point if you’re on a budget. However, consider buying from a source that allows thorough inspection or offers some recourse if the tool fails.

Is it better to buy a used premium brand or a new budget brand?

A used premium brand (like Milwaukee or DeWalt) often provides better performance and longevity than a new budget brand at the same price point. The build quality and durability of professional tools typically surpass entry-level options even after some use.

Conclusion

Buying used drills can be an excellent way to access quality tools at significantly reduced prices. With careful inspection and knowledge of what to look for, you can find reliable second-hand drills that will serve your needs for years to come. The key is to thoroughly examine any used drill before purchase, prioritize reputable brands known for durability, and understand the trade-offs between saving money and accepting potential risks.

For occasional DIYers, buying used drills presents minimal risk with substantial rewards. For professionals who depend on their tools daily, used drills can still be viable options, particularly as backup tools or for specialized applications. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your comfort level with used equipment, your budget constraints, and your ability to properly evaluate a tool’s condition.

Whether you choose to buy new or used, investing in quality tools that match your needs will always be the most economical choice in the long run.