Found a Snap-on 1/2" Drive Click Torque Wrench at a Yard Sale - Too Good to Be True?

Hey folks, so I was at this yard sale over the weekend and I spotted a Snap-on 1/2" drive click torque wrench, model TQTR100, in a case. The guy wanted $50 for it. I couldn't believe it. I know these go for $300+ new. It looks used but not abused. I tested the click with a socket and a piece of pipe, and it seems to click at the setting. But I'm not sure if it's calibrated. Should I grab it? I'm a plumber, I don't use torque wrenches much, but for that price, I might use it on my car. Any thoughts?

Dude, $50 for a Snap-on? That's a steal! Even if it's uncalibrated, you can send it in to Snap-on and they'll calibrate it for like $50-60. So you're still way ahead. I've had mine for 15 years and it's still spot on. I'd snatch that up before someone else does. And remember, it's a tool you can pass down to your grandkids. Just don't use it as a hammer! lol

I'm with Hank on this. But as a precision freak, I'd also check the ratchet mechanism for any slipping or signs of abuse. And test it against a known accurate torque wrench if you can. Some auto parts stores will let you use their torque tester. Or just buy a cheap beam-style one from Harbor Freight to cross-check. If it's off by more than 4-5%, it might be worth recalibrating. But even if it's off by a bit, for $50 you can't go wrong. Just don't rely on it for head bolts or anything critical until you know it's accurate.

I'd say go for it. I found a similar deal once on a Craftsman torque wrench at a pawn shop, and it's been great for my weekend projects. Just remember to store it at the lowest setting to keep the spring tension off. And if you do use it on your car, check the specs – you might need a bigger range for axle nuts. Also, does it have the calibration cert? Sometimes people sell those tools with the original cert. If not, you can still get it calibrated. I'd buy it and never look back.