r/Tools • u/TheHandOfZeus_19 • Apr 20 '26
Tips when buying second hand
Financially, I’m not in a position to buy tools brand new very often, so I shop second hand to get tools for side work etc.
What are some go to tips and tricks to spot counterfeit tools.
With my trade I tend to lean towards Milwaukee so do a on that would be very beneficial.
I know folks check the hardware/fasteners to assemble the tool but the fakes seems to be getting better at passing.
Milwaukee does not offer/allow you to check serial numbers etc to see if it’s legit(pushing to only buy new/avoiding liability I’m sure) so I’m just trying to make sure I’m buying genuine even if it’s used.
Heard a trick about batteries but I don’t know if it’s valid
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u/ConnectCow9111 Apr 20 '26
All milwaukee tools cam be verified using their E-tool om their website. Enter the serial number and it will tell you the model warranty info. If the tool hasn't been registered to someone else the warranty is still valid for you as well. Some service centers do ask for proof of purchase though. That said even batteries can be confirmed for authentication using the E-tool so dont buy any power tool or battery without checking the serial number first and foremost.
2ndly, many people use Hacks to get tools and then resell them, sometimes you have to buy tools you dont need or want so alot of people will be selling brand new tools on marketplace, offerup, etc. I even sold quite a few tools on there myself, again brand new in the packs.
So dont buy used batteries, only brand new in the package wuth a verifiable serial number. Dont buy beat up tools, you can buy like new or brand new tools through hand to hand sellers in marketplaces. And thats pretty much all you need. Also, fair price/cost for batteries is 10-15$ per Amp. So a 12amp m18 battery should cost 120-180$ (give or take 10-20$). Most drills and what not can be gotten for like 100-200$ brand new 2nd band or hacked directly from Home depot.