Found a killer deal on a 3/4" drive socket set - too good to be true?

Hey folks, was browsing Craigslist and stumbled on a vintage 3/4" drive socket set from an estate sale. The guy's asking $150 for a complete set with ratchet, breaker bar, and sockets from 1" to 2". Looks like it might be 70s-era Craftsman. The tools seem a bit rusty but nothing looks cracked. Should I jump on this? Seems like a steal for garage restoration projects.

Will, that does sound promising! Old Craftsman stuff is usually solid. Before you buy, check if the ratchet still clicks smoothly - sometimes the pawls wear out. Also, see if there's any pitting under the rust. If it's just surface rust, a vinegar soak and wire brush will clean it up nice. I restored a similar set last year and it's now my go-to for stubborn truck lug nuts.

$150 for a full 3/4" set?? That's insane if it's complete! New ones run $400+. But be careful - make sure all the sockets are there and the drive square isn't rounded off. Ask if he'll take $120 cash. And check if it's actually Craftsman - some old brands look similar but aren't as good. If it's missing pieces, walk away unless he drops the price a lot.

Honestly, I'd pass. Vintage tools are cool but you never know how they've been treated. For a bit more money, you could get a new DeWalt 3/4" set with warranty. I've had my DeWalt set for 8 years and it's never let me down. Plus, no rust to deal with! But if you're set on vintage, at least make sure it's USA-made Craftsman - the older ones are better quality.

Thanks everyone! Rick, good call on checking the pawls - I'll test the ratchet action. Wendy, I'll definitely negotiate - the ad says "or best offer" so I'll start at $100. Dan, I hear you on warranties, but there's something about restoring old tools that I enjoy. I'm going to check it out tomorrow - will update if I get it!