"Maybe instead of a strict timeline, consider how specialized or expensive the item is?"
That's a solid point. I've found that a rigid timeframe doesn't always work well, especially with niche tools. Sometimes I stumble upon an old drafting compass or specialty ruler I haven't touched in ages, and suddenly it's perfect for a tricky design detail. Maybe a better approach is periodically reviewing your supplies and asking yourself: "Can I realistically see myself needing this again?" rather than strictly counting months. Just my two cents...
"Can I realistically see myself needing this again?"
Yeah, that's pretty much how I handle it too. Had an old adjustable triangle gathering dust for years—almost tossed it—but then a renovation project popped up and it was a lifesaver. You just never know...
I get the logic behind tossing stuff you haven't touched in ages, but honestly, I've regretted it more than once. My rule of thumb now is: if it's specialized or pricey to replace, I keep it around. If it's cheap and easy to grab at the hardware store, then sure, toss it. Had a laser level sitting idle for years—almost sold it online—but then suddenly had a drainage issue pop up and it saved me hours of headaches. You just never know when these things come in handy...
"Had a laser level sitting idle for years—almost sold it online—but then suddenly had a drainage issue pop up and it saved me hours of headaches."
Yeah, learned this the hard way myself. Had a high-end tile cutter gathering dust after a bathroom remodel—figured I'd never use it again, sold it off cheap. Fast forward a year, wife decides we need custom backsplash in the kitchen. Ended up renting the exact same model for nearly what I sold mine for... Lesson painfully learned: specialized tools are worth the storage hassle.
I get the logic, but honestly, sometimes holding onto specialized gear just isn't worth it. Had a top-of-the-line paint sprayer I kept around "just in case." After five years of tripping over it in the garage, finally sold it. Sure enough, next year had a painting project—but renting turned out cheaper and easier than maintaining and storing that beast all those years. So yeah, it's a gamble either way... guess I've learned to accept the occasional rental fee as part of the deal.