Old Snap-On tools provide both collectible entertainment and practical assistance for mechanical needs. Snap-On tools have been in production since the 1920s, with some rare models fetching thousands of dollars from collectors looking to complete their historic sets. However, you might make a bit of a mistake if you pay big money for some types of Snap-On tools; people who are not aware of these difference can learn of them the hard way when trying to collect old tools.
Markings Tell the Age
Old Snap-On tools come with specific markings on handles or cast metal, detailing the tool's year of production. However, the marking incorporates a company code rather than an obvious description. Thus, without a tool chart, a collector or mechanic will be hard-pressed to guess the year of manufacturing. Fortunately, old charts still exist thanks to tool fans who have made them available electronically on the Internet (see the Swedish Wrench link in the References section for an example).
The Government Tool Loophole
Snap-On produced a significant number of tools for the federal government. However, because they were produced for a public agency, Snap-On did not back such tools with a lifetime warranty if they broke. Such benefits existed for retail customers. The mark old Snap-On tools carried signifying their year also detailed whether the tool was made for the government or for retail use. Buyers who know to look for such marks can save themselves from collection boondoggles and loss of hard-earned cash.
Tool Collecting
If starting old Snap-On tool collecting, beginners should limit the scope of their collection goals. The best approach involves picking a specific category of tools and concentrating on completing that set instead of trying to grab every Snap-On tool made. Collecting Snap-On socket wrenches, for example, provides plenty of ground for a beginning collector to work on. Building friendships and networks with other collectors and antique tool dealers can also prove helpful in locating a tool model you seek.
Where to Find Old Tools
For those planning to look on their own, a variety of sources list Snap-On tools. The easiest resources tend to be auction websites. Just searching and checking auction search engine regularly will quickly produce tools to go after. Garage sales don't produce as many quality tools as they used to, but estate sales may produce an entire set if you're lucky. Dealers also carry specific brands of used Snap-On tools and will be quite willing to add good, local customers to their call list. Finally, Snap-On tool collector clubs can produce trade opportunities for collectors and tool lovers, depending on how close you are to the club members.
