> So how should I do to properly test all old instruments and tubes that I buy 
> to check that they are safe, free from harmful radiation, is there any 
> reliable equipment that don't cost an arm and a leg that I can use at home?

The BWP34 ones mentioned before are probably the most cost effective.  Here's 
Elektor's version:

https://www.element14.com/community/servlet/JiveServlet/previewBody/41953-102-1-229709/Elektor%20Radiation%20Meter.pdf
 
<https://www.element14.com/community/servlet/JiveServlet/previewBody/41953-102-1-229709/Elektor%20Radiation%20Meter.pdf>

Maxim describes a fairly reasonable one here:

http://pdfserv.maximintegrated.com/en/an/AN2236.pdf 
<http://pdfserv.maximintegrated.com/en/an/AN2236.pdf>

If you want to use an actual GM tube, there are kits available, like this open 
source one ($40 and up):

https://sites.google.com/site/diygeigercounter/buy-the-kit-1 
<https://sites.google.com/site/diygeigercounter/buy-the-kit-1>

Or this commercial offering ($30):

http://www.goldmine-elec-products.com/prodinfo.asp?number=C8600

For those, you'll have to source the tubes separately, or buy (more expensive) 
options including tubes.

None of these options will give you lab-grade accuracy, but are completely fine 
for checking things to see if they're radioactive or not.  For the curious, my 
go-to Geiger counter is the Black Cat Systems GM-45, with a very sensitive 
"pancake" style GM tube, but that thing is more expensive at $349.

- John

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