What should you do with Grandpa’s tools? For many people the first answer would be to trash them. That may not be the best option though. Many older power tools are more rugged and durable than their modern counterpart. Take each of the power tools for a test run first. Do they still work? If they do, then can you use them for yourself? If you do not have a circular saw, but Grandpa’s works, keep it for yourself. If you already have the same tool, is Grandpa’s better? If so, then trade them out. If your tool is good, how about seeing if someone in the family might want his tool. It is both a memento and a practical item that someone could enjoy.
If the tools are not in working order, can they be fixed easily? Often, a new power cord and a good cleaning can make many power tools perform like they were new. If the tool just needs a new blade or bit, those are cost effective ways to get more life out of it. Take a few minutes and see if you can salvage an older power tool.
If you find that there is no home or hope for an older power tool, then there are a few options. One is to find one of the multitudes of hobbyists who love to play with these relics. Many people find great pleasure in taking them apart and rebuilding them. By donating the tool, the parts can be recycled into other pieces. It helps to reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills. Another way to have it reused is to find an industrial artist. These people take pieces of old machinery and make sculptures and art work with them. If you have a local arts community, you may find people happy to accept your donation.
What if you cannot stand to part with them? But, you cannot get them to work? Try to recycle them into your own home. These old tools can be displayed on a shelf as a memento of your grandfather. An old belt sander could be used as a door stop in the work shop. Pieces and parts can be put together for your own art installation. Get creative and see what you can do to reuse an old piece of history.
– Professional Power Tool Guide
