The short version
- Typical range: £20 – £150
- Biggest single factor: condition — see the table below
- Category: Tools & DIY
- Cost to sell on WishThrift: nothing, at any price
What a used tool set is worth by condition
Condition does more to the price than anything else. These figures are worked from the top of the range for tool sets, so treat them as a starting point and adjust for the specifics of yours.
| Condition | Typical price | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| New with Tags | £150 | Unused, tags or seals intact |
| Like New | £127 | Barely used, no visible wear |
| Good | £97 | Light signs of use, complete and working |
| Fair | £67 | Heavily used, or a described fault or missing part |
| For Parts | £37 | Not working or incomplete, sold as seen |
These are the five grades WishThrift listings use, and sellers set the grade themselves — see what each condition grade means. Figures are shown in pounds as a reference point. On WishThrift prices display in your own currency, and sellers set their own asking price.
What raises the value of a tool set
- Complete sets with every piece present
- Recognised makers offering lifetime guarantees
- Chrome vanadium and hardened steel construction
- Original case with intact fittings
What lowers it
- Missing sockets and bits, which buyers count
- Rounded sockets and worn spanner jaws
- Surface rust from damp storage
- Cheap unbranded sets, which sell for very little
How to work out what yours is worth
- Lay the set out in its case and check for gaps
- Inspect socket edges for rounding
- Photograph the full set in the open case
Once you have those three answers you can place your own tool set on the table above with reasonable confidence. If it sits between two rows, price it toward the lower one — items priced honestly sell faster than items priced hopefully.
Ready to sell it? Listing on WishThrift is free, there is no commission, and you keep the full amount you agree with the buyer — see how selling works or create a free account.
Frequently asked questions
Do hand tools hold their value?
Very well. Quality hand tools last decades, and sets from makers with lifetime guarantees hold value particularly strongly.
Does a missing socket matter?
More than sellers expect. Buyers count the pieces against the case moulding, so state clearly what is missing.
Is surface rust a problem?
Light rust cleans off easily and does not affect function. Deep pitting does, and should be photographed.
More value guides: tools & diy guides · all value guides · browse live tools & diy listings.