Practically Classics Forum

Other than chrome tools being easier to clean, is there a difference between chrome tools (in this instance, 1/2" drive extension bars) and raw steel ones?

raw steel rusts easier?

If you buy tools with cheap chrome you will regret it when it peels off and cuts you to ribbons.

jimmyybob wrote:If you buy tools with cheap chrome you will regret it when it peels off and cuts you to ribbons.

Totally, what he says. Unplated tools made from high quality steel are so hard to find these days, but are out there. Secondhand Facom, Britool, Sykes and King Dick are still cheap at boot sales & roups and I'm frequently guilty of picking up tools at these sorts of venues.
It's enormously satisfying to watch many of the students at work building up their tool collections this way too, rather than taking on endless credit with the Proto van woman, though she does have a fantastic soft-jawed self grip wrench and knows how to use them it.

JPB wrote:

jimmyybob wrote:If you buy tools with cheap chrome you will regret it when it peels off and cuts you to ribbons.

Totally, what he says. Unplated tools made from high quality steel are so hard to find these days, but are out there. Secondhand Facom, Britool, Sykes and King Dick are still cheap at boot sales & roups and I'm frequently guilty of picking up tools at these sorts of venues.
It's enormously satisfying to watch many of the students at work building up their tool collections this way too, rather than taking on endless credit with the Proto van woman, though she does have a fantastic soft-jawed self grip wrench and knows how to use them it.

Totally agree, older tools are much better value.
I try and get either britool or snap-on myself..some older kamasa stuff is good too

Kev

i buy what i can afford..

When i was little and me mum (gone now ) took me to the dentist , if i was good and didn't scream as the rubber gas mask went on, i got a treat...like an Eclipse magnet..(still have it!) or a Dinky toy ..
I came out the dentist last week , and there was the Snap On van ! I bought myself a 1/4 drive ratchet...it's lovely
2 teeth out and a denture 250 for that, and 1100 for the bridge in 6 months !

If it's a quality tool , the raw steel is usually so well alloyed /refined it's almost a stainless anyway

you deserve a complete toolbox! im off to see the dentist in june, im really not looking forward to it

I know , i aways nearly die of fright.

zipgun wrote:I know , i aways nearly die of fright.

When they give you the bill?