Hey all. I'm completely new to the forum, I've been reading for a few days, and I'm completely new to the use of crampons and ice axe's and the like. I've never climbed ice or went scrambling. But I do want to learn, and I do want to try some new things in regards to climbing/hiking. That said, I found a pair of crampons in my area for $20 on craigslist.

The 'owner' really has no details about them, except that they're in 'good condition'. Is it worth taking em up for $20? even if they suck, i only lost $20 right?! These would be my first crampons, and who knows, maybe I'll give the guy $20 and they'll be a heckuva pair of crampons!!! And when I say no details, i mean NO details (straps or anything). Is there anything about crampons that I might see upon checking them out that would tell me theyre not even worth using?? Like I said, I'm completely new to crampons.

No information? Get a picture at the bare minimum (and post it here). You could get 1960 crampons with no straps and no front points, spend $30 on neoprene straps, and after a few uses you'll be out buying something lighter and better.

In the last few months, someone posted a link to military crampons that sold for about $20/pair.

For $20, like MoapaPk says, you could end up with 1960's era points or worse, hobnails. In that case, I'll buy em from ya!

If they're gonna be your first pair, but something fairly decent from the get-go. You can easily find something under $100 that aren't too aggressive.
In saying that, it might be a good idea to put "ice" out of your head...at least for the time being. Concentrate on easy to moderate snow slopes instead.
Once you start talking ice, crampons are only the tip of a 'very large iceberg' of understanding & knowledge you better have firmly in place before you strap up.

I'm beginning to think anything with the word, 'Craigslist' means beware.
Send me a PM if you want to talk about crampons (points) and the intricacies of types and using them.
I'd be happy to help ya find something that won't break the pocket-book!