My tool strategy seems to be working out nicely with the better half. The used 520 purchase was discussed and approved, sorta quid pro quo for a couple of goodies that she wanted and got. The sub-$50 bargains from Craigslist are mere targets of opportunity .. those are not worth elevating to the level of the spousal radar screen.
But my wife, like most women, absolutely loves bargains! Yea, I know that they are likely to fall for fake ones, but that's a whole different matter. When I saw a nice clean Pro Planer on Craigslist the next town over for just $225, I told the wife what a new one cost, and mentioned that it would be indispensible in building her a new scrapbooking table. So she urged me leave work early and go snap it up!
And just tonight, a $20 Forstner-bit extension purchase was enthusiastically approved, albeit retroactively, because I could use it to make a new computer-chair pedestal, instead of spending $100 plus on a new chair. (The emerald ash borers, together with my trusty old Husquevarna chainsaw, provided ample hardwood or this project.)
Good communications = happy wife, good tools!
And just this weekend, the wife got addicted to eBay for scrapbook supply bargains. I set her up with an eSnipe account, she saved 60% on her first purchase, and had a blast doing it. Like I said, the ladies love bargains.
