Took me 4 months to find a decent vintage level at flea markets...

I started hunting for an old Stanley level back in June because my modern plastic ones kept getting bent. I hit every flea market and thrift store within 30 miles of downtown Portland like twice a month. Found a few levels but they were either warped or missing the vials completely. Finally scored one at a random garage sale in Beaverton for $8. The guy said it was his grandpa's and it sat in a toolbox for 30 years. Straight as an arrow after I cleaned it up. Anyone else waste way too much time hunting for one specific tool at bargain spots?

2 comments

2 Comments

mitchell.lee15d ago

Drove out to a farm auction in Hillsboro last October and stood in the rain for two hours just to bid on an old Stanley 98 level. Had like 15 other guys there who clearly wanted it too. Ended up going for $45 which felt like a lot but I saw the exact same one on eBay later for $120. Mine has a tiny dent in the top edge but the vial is perfect and it checks dead flat against my table saw. Worth every minute honestly.

alice26915d ago

Snagged a vintage Disston handsaw at a similar auction, totally soaked but got it for ten bucks.