Hogwarts Wand Sources After Ollivander's Closure: A Comprehensive Guide

With the closure of Ollivander's, one might wonder where the students at Hogwarts obtained their wands. This article will explore the various avenues students and witches/wizards might have taken to acquire their magic sticks, including the possibility of trading up, alternative wand makers, and the buying habits of the wizarding community in Britain.

The Allure of Used Wands

The question of obtaining a wand after Ollivander's closure naturally leads to the consideration of used wands. Throughout the Harry Potter series, many characters frequently mention choosing wands that reflect their adult interests and tastes. One notable example is Ron's wand, which he inherited from an older brother. This raises the possibility that trading up for a new wand could be a common practice among witches and wizards.

The idea of trading up suggests that there might be a market for second-hand and used wands. HBP (Half-Blood Prince) even alludes to the continued operation of other less-known wand makers who provided adequate wands to witches and wizards in Britain. These shops, while not as prestigious, offered viable alternatives for those seeking a wand without the need to visit Ollivander's.

Competing Wand Makers in Britain

It is mentioned in HBP that other wand makers continued to operate after Ollivander's disappearance. This competition, although not explicitly stated in Books 6 and 7, played a significant role in the wizarding community. These shops, while not as renowned as Ollivander's, catered to those who were satisfied with adequate wands rather than the prestigious Ollivander ones.

The book also hints that Gregorovich, from Durmstrang's region, might be the only other known wandmaker in Britain. However, the reliability and skill level of Gregorovich's wands are uncertain. Wandlore is indeed a complex and nuanced field, and the quality of wands varied among different makers. As Ollivander was an old wizard, it is plausible he needed to prepare an apprentice to take over his shop in the future.

Harry's Perspective and Community Reaction

Harry's observations and the statements of other characters provide additional insights into the situation. In HBP, a Weasley (possibly Arthur) mentioned that if you wanted the best, you should go to Ollivander's. This could imply that even amid the scarcity of Ollivander's wands, the community still revered the quality and craftsmanship of his wands.

However, the availability of alternative wands meant that students had more options. Hermione, for example, suggested that nearly-equal wands could be the best choice for students, reflecting the reality that not everyone would prioritize the prestige of an Ollivander wand over practicality and personal preference.

Conclusion

While Ollivander's closure marked a significant change in the wizarding community, it did not leave students without options. The market for used wands, the operation of other wand makers, and the practical considerations of wandlore all played roles in providing the magical community with the necessary tools for their daily magic. Understanding these sources of wands helps us appreciate the broader landscape of the Harry Potter universe and the evolving nature of its magical traditions.