Restoring old chrome tools vs. replacing with stainless worth it?

[edgeandmeasure484]

I just got my hands on this old toolbox filled with vintage hand tools, and let me tell you, it's a treasure trove. A lot of them sport some peeling chrome and even a few rust spots. Before I dive into restoring them, I've been thinking, would it be worth re-chroming these old beauties, or should I just go for some stainless steel replacements for the long haul?

 

[Mr. Handyman]

Clean them up and keep them!!! Replacements won't have the same feel or character, and stainless... may I just say... isn't always tougher. Too bad we have that schema. IDK what generation gaslit us lol.

 

[Niloc]

Be nice to know what sort of tool you are talking about. Stainless steel is good for making some new tools like parts of the Chinese hand planes.

 

[mumlikebenny]

Re-chroming is expensive and often not worth it unless the tools have sentimental or collectible value, you're better off removing the rust with some vinegar or electrolysis, then protecting them with a light oil or wax.