Is This a Good Deal?

[crokett]

Assuming I were go look at these

http://raleigh.craigslist.org/tls/610825552.html

What would I be looking for as to whether they were worth it? I'd want to be able to use these, not just look at them. Would I be happier with a modern all metal plane?

[Knottscott]

It's always nice to have a nostalgic piece like that if you have a need for their specific capability, but those a bit on the expensive side IMHO. They're made for specific contours, so they won't replace a typical block or bench plane. I bought a thumbnail plane much like the one pictured for $10 last summer, and it's in great shape.

[jackellis]

A bit on the expensive side.

[Uncle Cracker]

I'd pass...

[crokett]

I'll pass. Thanks fellas.

[Pappy]

Good decision, David. Going price should be $10-15 each unless they are perfect. Tops then at $25. Consider them collector pieces, only.

[cabinetman]

Some tools being priced on the high side might be worthwhile to have if you can afford the expense, and they get used. Having to earn my living with tools, my decision is sometimes based on if I need the particular tool when it's available and not wanting to wait for a similar one for a future purchase with the possibility of a lesser price.
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[crokett]

Is there a reason I should not offer less for these? I am mostly interested in the rabbeting plane. I would use them not just look at them. Are wood planes in general inferior or harder to use than metal?

[jackellis]

I don't know whether wood planes are generally easier or harder but I tried using one I picked up at a garage sale for 3 bucks. Cuts like a dream once you have the iron adjusted correctly. For some reason, it's lots sharper than any of the irons in my metal planes (which means I have some serious sharpening to do).

[rnelson0]

Offer $25, walk away if you don't want em. It can't hurt to counter.