I've bought some high quality brand name precision tools on Ebay for a fraction of their original price, but there's always a risk of getting something that's damaged or way out of calibration. I just bought a small spirit level, used for setting things up square and level on a machine or assuring that several parts that are being machined are oriented the same way on a holding fixture. It's 4" long, and made of heavy cast iron, Starrett brand, and only cost me about $20.00, shipping and all. Of course, I'll check it for accuracy before I trust it to be used on a real project.
Jerry

"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt!
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway
Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!