From what I've seen yes.. .( the torque wrenches not necessarily the breaker bar)... although I do have all three of the Pittsburgh torque wrenches and have no problems with them the ICON has a much better quality feel and works great I also have OEM tools 1/2 inch torque wrench that is a lot like the Pittsburgh torque wrenches but cost a little bit more.. my point is if it works there is no reason to replace it unless you like the tool to feel a little more refined.... as far as performance the Pittsburgh stuff works so why would you pay twice as much for something that may not be 2 to 3 times better?
Rg I don't have these in my local Harbor freight store yet but I will tell you this the og pro breaker bar broke twice on me once doing an alignment and the other time on a rusted on bolt on a lug but that was seized I definitely like you views at the end of this video I wish my harbor freight would keep up slow as crap otherwise I could give you some better input who knows they might have new items by new years ,2020 lol way to work man love the videos
Hey man I enjoy your no BS videos. Vanadium and Chromium are added to steel to make it harden better. Vanadium is also added to high speed steel to reduce abrasion. And only because you asked: vuh-nay-dee-um.
I have the Canadian version of the cheap one, identicle to the old Pittsburgh with the different end. The drive will shear long before the bar breaks, takes about 5' of pipe and my fat ass jumping
I work at a harbor freight and if someone is looking at the icon breaker bars i tell them to save money and get the pittsburg. The torque wrench by icon is really so i tell people only if youll use it a lot because it is worth it over the cheaper ones harbor freight has. Overall though i will save they tool quality has when up a lot since i started there part time and i work full time as a tech so I use these tools and they work great. Not everything though and i steer people away from somethings. But 99% of the tools i use from there are awesome.
I tried 2 Pittsburgh ratchets a 1/2 inch and a 3/8 I’ve used the crap of them so far, now I’m not a professional mechanic just a home guy but so far I’m impressed with the durability. I just bought a flex head ratchet breaker bar at Lowe’s that I just used on a heavy brake job and I am happy with that too I put a good load on that and it held up I was worried about stripping the ratchet teeth.
They are decent ratchets for sure I plan on doing a ratchet comparison soon and talk about what I like and don't like about them. Thanks for watching I appreciate it.
Redemption Garage I tried them because of the soft handles I couldn’t grip on my old craftsman’s anymore. The extra gear teeth are nice for tight spaces, as you already know I’m sure.
I'm with you on buying some of the harbour freight stuff but I've been buying tool truck stuff for 25 yrs and have never seen them turn anyone away. I'm not saying it doesn't happen but I've bought truck brands from pawn shops and flea markets and turn them in with no problems. Like I said that's just me. Great video,keep up the work!
Like I said man it really just depends on the driver but snap ons warranty states that it offers a lifetime on products purchased from an authorized snap on distribution channels. So they technically are saying warranties won't transfer. Like I said though it all depends on the driver. Thanks for commenting and giving your experience I really appreciate it.
What's even more crazy on the prices is that they often have $14.99 coupons for that pittsburgh bar or you can use 20% off anytime. 20% coupons are no good on the ICON branded tools. Read the 20% coupon. It's on there.
...I have found that a lot of times, the pin on the flex head is the weak point on a breaker bar..usually, if anything breaks or distorts, it will be likely be the pivot pin....
I don't care who's name is on a tool as long as it gets the job done. For me HF has done good for me. Between HF tools and youtube I saved myself thousands fixing my own stuff. I saved money and learned something too. When I go into HF stores I am like a little kid. Lol
I agree. I have said the same things for a long time. But that Snap-On kool-aid is some toxic juice. I had a guy arguing with me in garage journal about buying only USA tools and his signature said “ Sent from my IPhone X”
@@truckerpeterose I love using USA made tools supporting the American industry but if I see something made in Taiwan for a 1/10th of the price as to Snap Off, Mac, Cornhole, Matco and it has the same fit and finish I'll take them any day of the week and if I'm buying foreign made tools I'll stick to Germany, Japan and Taiwan I don't like tools from mainland China mostly due to geo-political reasons but tools from the mainland are crap compared to Taiwan
I broke the Pittsburg one with a pipe & 2 people I took it back they asked do you want your $ back or do you want another one & they never asked for receipt I said damn right I'll take another tool I've got a bunch of HF tools & that's what I'll continue to buy
They asked me the same thing and I said "do I look like I want my money back? That's the best damn breaker bar I ever had it just didnt like the last job."
I have the Pittsburgh, $14.99 with coupon or on sale. It can't be beat. I haven't used it for anything yet that I didn't feel it couldn't safely remove the nut, but I've only used it for my personal use on my vehicles and on the farm. If I were going to use one professionally, I'd not be one bit afraid of using the Pittsburgh. I haven't used the Icon, but I'd probably upgrade to it eventually.
I have to warranty the Pittsburgh torque wrench a lot. My first one was awesome. Recently, I'm glad it stopped falling apart. Sorry. Thinking about torque wrenches and here's a breaker bar video. I did buy their huge breaker bar and it does great under severe abuse.
@@DENicholsAutoBravado I've got a couple of their torque wrenches too, but I have a Craftsman I rely on for more accuracy requirements. I got it when a sears store was closing. Got it for $35.00. I didn't really need it but I also bought the 3/8 drive torque wrench for the same price.
@@dannyo6699 I'm still needing a 3/8 for when a measurement is too low on the 1/2 but to high for my quarter. Technically they do it, but they're less accurate at the extremes.
@@DENicholsAutoBravado Agreed. They do have their target torque ranges they work best for. I'm usually using mine to torque wheel lugnuts, which the 1/2 works best for, or oil drain plugs, which the 3/8 would be best for.
If the Icon torque wrench is longer or measure higher than 150 ft lbs then I need one. 150 is fine for trucks but lots of suspension components are supposed to be more. Edit: more like a few are higher. Usually wheel bearings. But sometimes they're supposed to be hand tight.
Doesn't matter what dealer you buy your tools from they have to warranty them. If they give any problems contact the main company. They will replace it, I've had to do it when I stoped buying Cromwell tools.
Thanks for doing this comparison. I would NOT pay the premium to get the Icon. The Pittsburgh Pro is a beast...no reason to get the Icon in my opinion.
If you've had the Pittsburgh, and used it professionally, I'd go Pittsburgh then. I only need one for that very occasional to rare use, and it appears it would be fine.
Thank you for being true and consistent with how the real world works. I appreciate how you’re not a fan boy about how any of the other circumstances/ideals/“loyalty” to brands may effect your decision on buying tools. In the end, we are all trying to save money and make more money. You did your tests with what you had, and I like that rawness! I also follow The Den Of Tools and both of you are great to follow for guidance in buying tools. Thanks again!
I LIKE THE BREAKER BAR THE GRIP OF IT IS GREAT VERY COMFORTABLE USED IT TODAY IN TRADE SCHOOL TO BREAK LUG NUTS ON 2007 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE 5.7L I KNOW IT IS NOT THAT STRONG AS SNAPON ON SINCE OUR SCHOOL GETS FREE SNAPON TOOLS FOR THE INSTRUCTOR BUT TIME WILL TELL HOW LONG IT LAST WE HAVE 2 SNAPON BREAKER BARS IN SCHOOL BUT ONE BENDS AND IT SNAPS BUT WE FIXED IT
You should watch my rant on snap on vs harbor freight. Harbor freight actually employs twice as many Americans than Snap-on and is still an American company
Another thing I found interesting was the tools at Lowe’s I liked there kobalt line of sockets and ratchets made in Taiwan. There replacing there line with craftsman tools which I looked at closely and there tools are made in China for the same prices. They do got a set made in Taiwan but they don’t sell those sockets individually
The icon tools (except their torque wrenches) look like rebranded pittsburgh stuff just like the quinns and I still think these tools are way better quality then what they used to be years before,by the way After watching this video I went to HF and bought the icon breaker bar and torque wrench.
I saw these in the store last week. I haven’t watched the video yet but I am just gonna call it right now that Icon is in no way worth the extra cash than The Pittsburgh. I will now wait to see your analysis
I do not know the point of the ICON bar at a far more expensive price. I have the Pittsburgh bar and it is one of the gems that Harbor Freight carries. I really like mine and I have several breaker bars to compare it to. As far as Snap On warranty goes, I have had zero issues getting warranty replacement. All I did was contact them through email and they sent me a replacement in less than a week. I also recommend SK tools for ease of warranty. I mailed my well worn ratchets to them and in three weeks, I had new ones waiting on my doorstep. The vast majority of my Snap On tools and SK tools were bought second hand as this saves a LOT of money.
@@pattognozzi exactly correct. I like they're even longer breaker bar which doesn't come with a comfort grip but the metal is larger. That makes you feel less bad when you put a pipe on it.
Why spend more when they both have lifetime warranty and can take it back and get new one if you break it. They should have done the grip green not red like the other
I've seen a video of HF ratchets that the shaft doesn't go all the way to the end of the comfort grip handle, maybe the Icon does like the truck brands. I've got the Pittsburgh bb and love it.
This proves that Eric Smidt, the owner of HF is clueless about tools. This is a big mistake. Right now for that money you can buy a 36" x 3/4" Tekton breaker bar made in Taiwan with a lifetime warranty that is honored in many many stores. And there are even better deals than the Tekton one out there, but I make my point. This is ignorant over-reach. You think I am being harsh? Just look at the new 12v polisher. 199.00? Really. Coupon price 169. Compare that to the Milwaukee kit for 186 (Amazon). The Milwaukee has two batteries, one substantially bigger. AND it has a better reputation. AND it has a much much longer warranty. AND there are a hundred or so tools that take the same batteries, vs how many with HF?....ONE! ...the 3/8 cordless ratchet. And HF is not using the same battery for a under-the-hood car light because why? Ignorance. The guy(s) that call the shots at HF never personally used a hand tool in their lives. Yes, of course they will get it right, eventually. But not before a long time and many mistakes have passed; like this ICON POS breaker bar for 50.00!!!!!!!!
@Josh Smith that explains the new Zurich tablet scanner for $1800 that looks exactly like the Autel Maxisus I worked for a smallish Mom n Pop tool store and got trained by Autel on how to use their scanners I went to my HF saw that same exact Maxisus but with blue trim and different badge for a few hundred dollars less than what Autel sells then for I'm honestly about to pick one up it's a bad ass little scanner
Just Sub’d. Nice review. So if you had to pick one which would you choose? Basically is it worth paying the extra added cost? Both look like they held up under pressure. Neither one broke. Which do you choose?
Damn thanks Justin. Well I gave the Pittsburgh one away and kept the icon. I think the icon is worth the extra cost but with that being said the Pittsburgh is really good as well so if someone wants to save money then the Pittsburgh will get the job done. I appreciate you subbing and commenting Justin I love your channel.
I think the Pittsburgh can also be purchased without the grip. I bought one, and went with the grip as I am keeping it in my car in case I need to change a tire on the road. For that I definitely need a grip in case it’s raining.
You were speaking all factz.... talk your shit bro 🗣🗣🗣 I’m listening......”I only buy American “ ... yea alright...🤣🤣🤣 I buy where I can save.... I lover the way you broke that down..💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾
i just went to HF last night to pick up the Pittsburgh breaker bar because everyone says its a good bang for the buck. I never heard of the ICON until i went to the store and saw it last night. it is more expensive than the Pittsburgh but I decided to get the icon instead. they seem to be very similar but ill pay extra if it maybe a little stronger. having a 1/2 inch breaker bar break on you isnt fun lol.
I’m not a pro but I have a lot of pro tools. I’m a diyer but can change cams, heads, suspension, etc. I love my $18 Pittsburg breaker bar. Doubt I need the icon. I’ll save the cash and get the icon torque wrench. Now those are real nice.
They're made with the same metal... chrome vanadium construction is the same as chrome steel... construction means put together.. to construct.. so chrome vanadium is the same as chrome vanadium construction. :)
Lol thanks man i have always pronounced it the way i did and dont think i have ever heard it pronounced different but never was sure how it was pronounced i appreciate it
I am impressed with the Pittsburgh, I currently don't own any Harbor Freight Tools, Hell never even been in a store, but will defiantly check them out. Thank You for another great video!
I put a 40 inch pipe on them and bent them further than most people will ever do to check the initial quality. What else would you recommend I do? Thanks for your input.
The Icon breaker bar makes sense now.. since the rest of the Icon tool lineup is coming out soon.. and I am looking forward to getting some of the Icon gear
i have 3 of those pittsburgh bars & love em.. bought each one on sale for around 14 or 15 bucks each... i keep one in each car & one for the garage ...i love my american made sk tools, but u just cant beat these for the price... even not on sale i think theyre only around 20 bucks... i got the first two originally for just a "cheap keep it in the car for emergencys" kinda thang, but after seeing all the great reviews, i grabbed another one when i caught a sale to keep in my main tool box in the shop... & while im sure that both bars are good quality, & no offense to hf & icon, but if im spending that much (ie; icon) for a tool, im going to "harryjepstines" website & im buying an sk... & btw as a fellow coffee drinker i loved the intro... ironically i was brewing my morning coffee while clicking on ur video... thanx bro & have a blessed & "well-caffeinated" day (haha)
lol snap on 'joe'. that was my actual situation with our snappy guy. and his name was joe. now i got gear wrench 120xp ratchets and as far as 'breaker bars' go, my big as 1/2 drive cornwell flex head 27" ratchet gets that done just fine.
I speak for everyone when I say the biggest and most important question went unanswered and that question is does the icon have an all steel construction by that im asking if the steel extends all the way to the end of the soft grip handle? On the pittsburgh it does not I snapped the handle on mine im half using a cheater pipe just as you did maybe you can answer this question thanks for a great video Im subing
You know you are not the first one to ask me that. I am planning on making something to get these handles off and we will find out! Thanks for watching and subbing Brandon.
Not gonna lie had a bad first experince buying a torque wrench all the harbor freight torque wrenches got hard when turning the dial to a point where it wont move under halfway returned and got a craftsman :/
The Icon torque wrench and snap ring plier set looks promising to me and they are on my wish list. But this breaker bar leaves me scratching my head compared to the soft grip Pittsburgh which is a big bang for the buck. I agree the CR V steel may be a little better quality but for 2.5x the price? If the head had a ball detent and end of the handle took a ratchet anvil, I would spring for one. The ratchets will be interesting to see and I wonder how the tooth engagement, smoothness and backdrag will compare to dual drive 80 SnapOn or you Matco.
I agree. It's funny you mention the ratchets I am uploading a video on ratchets as we speak that i say the same thing lol. Thanks for watching and commenting John.
I dont like the back and fourth play between the Socket and the ears of the handle on the Pittsburgh Breaker bar. Also half of the handle isnt even backed by metal. There needs to be tighter tolerances on in that section and I could care less about the grip. I just need a tool that works.
Good review and appreciate your thoughts on these tools. I have the Pittsburgh breaker bar and have been happy with it, sometimes they have a coupon where you can get it even a little bit cheaper. I have used cheater bars too, you gotta do what you need to get the job done. After the intro making the coffee, looked so good I had to go make myself a cup. LoL
Their not both made in Taiwan, Pittsburgh is made in China, Icon in Taiwan, Also another channel did a very detailed testing of these and they both broke between 270 and 280 lbs of torgque, both good for what they are.
They may be I really don't know but watching the flex of the ICON compared to the pittsburgh as well as feel and look leads me to believe that it is probably either better metal or the treating process was better. As I said though the Pittsburgh really is a good breaker bar I have put it to the test many of times and it hasn't failed me yet. Thanks for watching amd for your input it means a lot.
Love your videos man, they are awesome. One note (6:30 point in video you say that carbon content is 5-7%) if memory serves correct carbon steels could go up to 2 percent by definition. 1095 would have 0.95% carbon whereas 1084 steel would have 0.84% carbon. Once the carbon content surpasses 2% the carbon can no longer form a structure and then would become "loose" aka graphite. So this is why cast iron (with carbon between 2% and 7% I believe) is not ductile and isn't made in tools. While these breaker bars are CrV giving them a 61xx Sae designation, the last two numbers would still have to represent a carbon content under 2% and more likely between .5% and .9% if I made a guess. Still awesome channel man.
I guess you could say the oldest joke in the book is that you would buy harbor freight tools use them once and throw them away but I seen your tool test then maybe I'll start buying them tools again then because the longest time I'll go to Sears or Lowe's or home Depot and buy their tools
Bro... Gotta gets them squirrels, gettin out of your head lol... You keep nailin it, your doing fine... The Pittsboro is the to go tool, the ICON is a tool youd upgrade to, when you have the cash an the older tool should be upgraded IMO, not saying theres nothing wrong ownin a Snap On, MAC, Craftsman, proto or Pittsboro.. as long as they get the job done an it doesnt cost you a arm an leg to do the job.. Its a bonus if the tool last and you make a profit from it, its a complete differant story if the tool cost you a grip and it breaks, when you need it the most ! I think your doin good, just keep pushing on.. Stay focused on your skills an do what you do best bud 😁🤘🤘👍👍 Edit: noticed them squirrels kept around, this hole time an they like eating them nuts, even today loooooool
I probably wouldn't either but craftsman tools aren't that great of quality anymore either. I did have an 18 inch craftsman breaker bar that was pretty decent. Thanks for watching and commenting.
No offense, but this is a terrible comparison. They're both made of cr-v steel. The cheaper one will work for most people, even pros. They've both been stress tested and both hold up. Snap on hand tools are made in the usa.
The Icon is the better wrench and does cost more to make. But... you proved you don't need it to be better than the Pittsburgh, Pittburg is all you need. Some people feel better about spending more money.
They already proved the Pittsburgh is just as good as the tool Truck brands so of course this isn’t any better. It is solely designed for the mechanics too proud to carry the Pittsburgh logo and for the people that believe spending more money gets them better quality. HF is trying to create a different image for their tools and honestly they are gonna push more people away than they are going to attract. Most people will pay a bit more for a name brand tool and these prices of their products are getting closer to the big names. This is a complete fail in my opinion.
as long as they carry the cheaper options it shouldn't affect their reputations or sales. Harbour freight developed solid base of customers selling fair products for fair price. now they experiment with diffrent price brackets. for diffrent names. while the breaker bar is dude in my opinion the icon snap ring plier set is excellent choice
The tool trucks are a horrible deal for the drivers. Especially Snap-On. They sell their tools yet the driver has to be the one to invest in the tools, truck and cover warranty's themselves. They can get comped for the warranty, but they have to submit it to get the replacement part or tool they warrantied. It's very expensive and the return is just not there. The companies should supply the truck and tools to the driver and just employ the driver but give them incentives to sell items so the driver can actually make a living at what they are doing, not have sleepless nights because they aren't making a decent living at their job. By all means support them but call their companies and demand they receive better treatment. Otherwise, Harbor Freight puts out some pretty good tools and I have no problem using them.
I agree with you buddy but the cost to produce american goods vs the income of Americans is not enough. So selling imported goods does at least create jobs.
Do you think the Icon is worth the extra money?
From what I've seen yes..
.( the torque wrenches not necessarily the breaker bar)... although I do have all three of the Pittsburgh torque wrenches and have no problems with them the ICON has a much better quality feel and works great I also have OEM tools 1/2 inch torque wrench that is a lot like the Pittsburgh torque wrenches but cost a little bit more.. my point is if it works there is no reason to replace it unless you like the tool to feel a little more refined.... as far as performance the Pittsburgh stuff works so why would you pay twice as much for something that may not be 2 to 3 times better?
Rg I don't have these in my local Harbor freight store yet but I will tell you this the og pro breaker bar broke twice on me once doing an alignment and the other time on a rusted on bolt on a lug but that was seized I definitely like you views at the end of this video I wish my harbor freight would keep up slow as crap otherwise I could give you some better input who knows they might have new items by new years ,2020 lol way to work man love the videos
Both of the bars look pretty good.
Hey man I enjoy your no BS videos. Vanadium and Chromium are added to steel to make it harden better. Vanadium is also added to high speed steel to reduce abrasion. And only because you asked: vuh-nay-dee-um.
If it was made in USA would be a smoking deal but same country of Origin will not make me upgrade
The icon is, simply put, for the person who wants to feel better about spending more.
The Den of Tools Ding Ding Ding, we have a winner
Ha. It’s like they didn’t even try to make it look more expensive. Could have at least designed the grip cushion to look different.
john4kc True. And even at that price it’s still a good deal compared to other brands.
You get an extra inch and laser engraving on the Icon. So there is that.
I have the Canadian version of the cheap one, identicle to the old Pittsburgh with the different end.
The drive will shear long before the bar breaks, takes about 5' of pipe and my fat ass jumping
I work at a harbor freight and if someone is looking at the icon breaker bars i tell them to save money and get the pittsburg. The torque wrench by icon is really so i tell people only if youll use it a lot because it is worth it over the cheaper ones harbor freight has. Overall though i will save they tool quality has when up a lot since i started there part time and i work full time as a tech so I use these tools and they work great. Not everything though and i steer people away from somethings. But 99% of the tools i use from there are awesome.
My money goes to the Pittsburgh, I suspect both bars were made in the same factory, handle patterns are the same.
Loving the RANT! Thanks for not just picking the Icon because it costs more. Also, the intro was great! Keep up the great work.
I tried 2 Pittsburgh ratchets a 1/2 inch and a 3/8 I’ve used the crap of them so far, now I’m not a professional mechanic just a home guy but so far I’m impressed with the durability. I just bought a flex head ratchet breaker bar at Lowe’s that I just used on a heavy brake job and I am happy with that too I put a good load on that and it held up I was worried about stripping the ratchet teeth.
They are decent ratchets for sure I plan on doing a ratchet comparison soon and talk about what I like and don't like about them. Thanks for watching I appreciate it.
Redemption Garage I tried them because of the soft handles I couldn’t grip on my old craftsman’s anymore. The extra gear teeth are nice for tight spaces, as you already know I’m sure.
I'm with you on buying some of the harbour freight stuff but I've been buying tool truck stuff for 25 yrs and have never seen them turn anyone away. I'm not saying it doesn't happen but I've bought truck brands from pawn shops and flea markets and turn them in with no problems. Like I said that's just me. Great video,keep up the work!
Like I said man it really just depends on the driver but snap ons warranty states that it offers a lifetime on products purchased from an authorized snap on distribution channels. So they technically are saying warranties won't transfer. Like I said though it all depends on the driver. Thanks for commenting and giving your experience I really appreciate it.
What's even more crazy on the prices is that they often have $14.99 coupons for that pittsburgh bar or you can use 20% off anytime. 20% coupons are no good on the ICON branded tools. Read the 20% coupon. It's on there.
...I have found that a lot of times, the pin on the flex head is the weak point on a breaker bar..usually, if anything breaks or distorts, it will be likely be the pivot pin....
I'm liking the editing you did at the beginning of the video.... good stuff bro. ..👍
I appreciate you taking the time to watch and tell me!
I been beating on fasteners using the Pittsburgh pro breaker bar for a few months got it for 15 bucks on sale.
I don't care who's name is on a tool as long as it gets the job done. For me HF has done good for me. Between HF tools and youtube I saved myself thousands fixing my own stuff. I saved money and learned something too. When I go into HF stores I am like a little kid. Lol
I agree with you for sure and I am too lol.
Yeah same for me as well.
Have had the Pittsburg pro comfort grip 25 inch breaker bar for over 7 years never had a problem with it I dont see the point of the icon
This is by far my favorite tool warranty rant video to date. You’re speaking to all of our frustrations with certain name brands.
Thanks a lot brother
I agree. I have said the same things for a long time. But that Snap-On kool-aid is some toxic juice. I had a guy arguing with me in garage journal about buying only USA tools and his signature said “ Sent from my IPhone X”
Trucker88 and probably says milwaukee cordless tools are amazing 😝
@@truckerpeterose I love using USA made tools supporting the American industry but if I see something made in Taiwan for a 1/10th of the price as to Snap Off, Mac, Cornhole, Matco and it has the same fit and finish I'll take them any day of the week and if I'm buying foreign made tools I'll stick to Germany, Japan and Taiwan I don't like tools from mainland China mostly due to geo-political reasons but tools from the mainland are crap compared to Taiwan
I broke the Pittsburg one with a pipe & 2 people I took it back they asked do you want your $ back or do you want another one & they never asked for receipt I said damn right I'll take another tool I've got a bunch of HF tools & that's what I'll continue to buy
They asked me the same thing and I said "do I look like I want my money back? That's the best damn breaker bar I ever had it just didnt like the last job."
I have the Pittsburgh, $14.99 with coupon or on sale. It can't be beat. I haven't used it for anything yet that I didn't feel it couldn't safely remove the nut, but I've only used it for my personal use on my vehicles and on the farm.
If I were going to use one professionally, I'd not be one bit afraid of using the Pittsburgh. I haven't used the Icon, but I'd probably upgrade to it eventually.
I have to warranty the Pittsburgh torque wrench a lot. My first one was awesome. Recently, I'm glad it stopped falling apart. Sorry. Thinking about torque wrenches and here's a breaker bar video. I did buy their huge breaker bar and it does great under severe abuse.
@@DENicholsAutoBravado I've got a couple of their torque wrenches too, but I have a Craftsman I rely on for more accuracy requirements. I got it when a sears store was closing. Got it for $35.00. I didn't really need it but I also bought the 3/8 drive torque wrench for the same price.
@@dannyo6699 I'm still needing a 3/8 for when a measurement is too low on the 1/2 but to high for my quarter. Technically they do it, but they're less accurate at the extremes.
@@DENicholsAutoBravado Agreed. They do have their target torque ranges they work best for. I'm usually using mine to torque wheel lugnuts, which the 1/2 works best for, or oil drain plugs, which the 3/8 would be best for.
If the Icon torque wrench is longer or measure higher than 150 ft lbs then I need one. 150 is fine for trucks but lots of suspension components are supposed to be more.
Edit: more like a few are higher. Usually wheel bearings. But sometimes they're supposed to be hand tight.
Doesn't matter what dealer you buy your tools from they have to warranty them. If they give any problems contact the main company. They will replace it, I've had to do it when I stoped buying Cromwell tools.
Amen to everything you have said man! Great video.
Thanks man!
Thanks for doing this comparison. I would NOT pay the premium to get the Icon. The Pittsburgh Pro is a beast...no reason to get the Icon in my opinion.
If you've had the Pittsburgh, and used it professionally, I'd go Pittsburgh then. I only need one for that very occasional to rare use, and it appears it would be fine.
Thank you for being true and consistent with how the real world works. I appreciate how you’re not a fan boy about how any of the other circumstances/ideals/“loyalty” to brands may effect your decision on buying tools. In the end, we are all trying to save money and make more money. You did your tests with what you had, and I like that rawness! I also follow The Den Of Tools and both of you are great to follow for guidance in buying tools. Thanks again!
Thanks for the compliment Hector I appreciate it.
I LIKE THE BREAKER BAR THE GRIP OF IT IS GREAT VERY COMFORTABLE USED IT TODAY IN TRADE SCHOOL TO BREAK LUG NUTS ON 2007 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE 5.7L I KNOW IT IS NOT THAT STRONG AS SNAPON ON SINCE OUR SCHOOL GETS FREE SNAPON TOOLS FOR THE INSTRUCTOR BUT TIME WILL TELL HOW LONG IT LAST WE HAVE 2 SNAPON BREAKER BARS IN SCHOOL BUT ONE BENDS AND IT SNAPS BUT WE FIXED IT
You should watch my rant on snap on vs harbor freight. Harbor freight actually employs twice as many Americans than Snap-on and is still an American company
I'll check it out man. Thanks for watching Brad.
No problem bud, ur gonna be hitting 1,000 before u know it 👍🏼
Very interesting point.
You apparently have been brainwashed
I went with the Pittsburgh. Your video was very helpful, thanks
Have you reviewed Quinn tools vs Icon Tools from harbor freight yet
The Pittsburgh pro is a great breaker bar for $20.. I've seen videos of it beating snapon breaker bar head to head.. I'll stay with my Pittsburgh pro
Got mine on sale also. Less than $15 is a hell of a deal!
Actually it didnt quite beat snapon in aVe's videos but it came in at a close 2nd place.
Another thing I found interesting was the tools at Lowe’s I liked there kobalt line of sockets and ratchets made in Taiwan. There replacing there line with craftsman tools which I looked at closely and there tools are made in China for the same prices.
They do got a set made in Taiwan but they don’t sell those sockets individually
The icon tools (except their torque wrenches) look like rebranded pittsburgh stuff just like the quinns and I still think these tools are way better quality then what they used to be years before,by the way After watching this video I went to HF and bought the icon breaker bar and torque wrench.
I saw these in the store last week. I haven’t watched the video yet but I am just gonna call it right now that Icon is in no way worth the extra cash than The Pittsburgh. I will now wait to see your analysis
I do not know the point of the ICON bar at a far more expensive price. I have the Pittsburgh bar and it is one of the gems that Harbor Freight carries. I really like mine and I have several breaker bars to compare it to.
As far as Snap On warranty goes, I have had zero issues getting warranty replacement. All I did was contact them through email and they sent me a replacement in less than a week.
I also recommend SK tools for ease of warranty. I mailed my well worn ratchets to them and in three weeks, I had new ones waiting on my doorstep. The vast majority of my Snap On tools and SK tools were bought second hand as this saves a LOT of money.
Haven't watched yet, but answer is no...it's not worth it.
I wonder if the steel shaft goes all the way thru the plastic handle......
tomycodd They do. You can buy them with or without the rubber grip
@@pattognozzi exactly correct. I like they're even longer breaker bar which doesn't come with a comfort grip but the metal is larger. That makes you feel less bad when you put a pipe on it.
Why spend more when they both have lifetime warranty and can take it back and get new one if you break it. They should have done the grip green not red like the other
Awesome video bro thank you for all you do!!! 💪🤘🔥🔥
Thanks Corey it means a lot man.
Redemption Garage been with you for awhile brother and I have loved the channel and the way you do stuff since day one!! Keep it up
I've seen a video of HF ratchets that the shaft doesn't go all the way to the end of the comfort grip handle, maybe the Icon does like the truck brands. I've got the Pittsburgh bb and love it.
This proves that Eric Smidt, the owner of HF is clueless about tools. This is a big mistake. Right now for that money you can buy a 36" x 3/4" Tekton breaker bar made in Taiwan with a lifetime warranty that is honored in many many stores. And there are even better deals than the Tekton one out there, but I make my point. This is ignorant over-reach. You think I am being harsh? Just look at the new 12v polisher. 199.00? Really. Coupon price 169. Compare that to the Milwaukee kit for 186 (Amazon). The Milwaukee has two batteries, one substantially bigger. AND it has a better reputation. AND it has a much much longer warranty. AND there are a hundred or so tools that take the same batteries, vs how many with HF?....ONE! ...the 3/8 cordless ratchet. And HF is not using the same battery for a under-the-hood car light because why? Ignorance. The guy(s) that call the shots at HF never personally used a hand tool in their lives. Yes, of course they will get it right, eventually. But not before a long time and many mistakes have passed; like this ICON POS breaker bar for 50.00!!!!!!!!
I agree man you should watch my video on 5 reasons not to buy a cordless tool from harbor freight
@Josh Smith snap on has never had a store lol
@Josh Smith that explains the new Zurich tablet scanner for $1800 that looks exactly like the Autel Maxisus I worked for a smallish Mom n Pop tool store and got trained by Autel on how to use their scanners I went to my HF saw that same exact Maxisus but with blue trim and different badge for a few hundred dollars less than what Autel sells then for I'm honestly about to pick one up it's a bad ass little scanner
Just Sub’d. Nice review. So if you had to pick one which would you choose? Basically is it worth paying the extra added cost? Both look like they held up under pressure. Neither one broke. Which do you choose?
Damn thanks Justin. Well I gave the Pittsburgh one away and kept the icon. I think the icon is worth the extra cost but with that being said the Pittsburgh is really good as well so if someone wants to save money then the Pittsburgh will get the job done. I appreciate you subbing and commenting Justin I love your channel.
Redemption Garage Thanks and Thanks for sharing your video. 🍻
I got a locking flex head ratchet from home depo by husky for 40 bucks for a long handle and 25 dollers for a average handle
Don’t let tool trucks bullshit you with All American Brands when way over half of their items are Taiwan or China made
All Snap-on ratchets and breaker bars are made in eastern Tennessee near Kingsport. Those icons do look nicer than the PPro brand though
I can tell they are of a better quality for sure and the handles are a lot beefier for sure. Thanks for the info Matt I apreciate it
Anytime buddy
does the bar go all the through the handle in either one or both?
I have the Pittsburgh bar and it works great, and for about 20 bucks I can’t complain.
I think the Pittsburgh can also be purchased without the grip. I bought one, and went with the grip as I am keeping it in my car in case I need to change a tire on the road. For that I definitely need a grip in case it’s raining.
Nice to see you again 😉 thanks for another great video
"Watching on a Samsung telephone" my man, speaking the truth! God bless.
Awesome intro man i love it. Great review once again.
You were speaking all factz.... talk your shit bro 🗣🗣🗣 I’m listening......”I only buy American “ ... yea alright...🤣🤣🤣 I buy where I can save.... I lover the way you broke that down..💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾
i just went to HF last night to pick up the Pittsburgh breaker bar because everyone says its a good bang for the buck. I never heard of the ICON until i went to the store and saw it last night. it is more expensive than the Pittsburgh but I decided to get the icon instead. they seem to be very similar but ill pay extra if it maybe a little stronger. having a 1/2 inch breaker bar break on you isnt fun lol.
I agree lol. It is a good bar there's no doubt.
Hei the guy put probably 450 ft lbs with that cheater bar and did not brake it.if you put so much torque on a bolt that is a broken one for sure.
Subscribed. I like this guys style. Real talk. No bullshit.
Thanks for the review. I was curious about the new ICON one.
I’m not a pro but I have a lot of pro tools. I’m a diyer but can change cams, heads, suspension, etc. I love my $18 Pittsburg breaker bar. Doubt I need the icon. I’ll save the cash and get the icon torque wrench. Now those are real nice.
They're made with the same metal... chrome vanadium construction is the same as chrome steel... construction means put together.. to construct.. so chrome vanadium is the same as chrome vanadium construction. :)
Yes. I'm thinking so.
Oh fn right ive abused and stood on top of my harbor freight 24 breaker bar,jumpin on top of it to get bolts loose..takes it like a champ
just for future reference, its pronounced vuh-nay-dee-um
Lol thanks man i have always pronounced it the way i did and dont think i have ever heard it pronounced different but never was sure how it was pronounced i appreciate it
I am impressed with the Pittsburgh, I currently don't own any Harbor Freight Tools, Hell never even been in a store, but will defiantly check them out. Thank You for another great video!
I wish you had really tested each tool to see if there truly is ANY difference (besides the length) between these two breaker bars.
I put a 40 inch pipe on them and bent them further than most people will ever do to check the initial quality. What else would you recommend I do? Thanks for your input.
The Icon breaker bar makes sense now.. since the rest of the Icon tool lineup is coming out soon.. and I am looking forward to getting some of the Icon gear
What’s your opinion on icon tools as a whole?
Another great video I love this channel I think you're going to go far.
She said an extra inch would give more leverage.
But I gets mine.
i have 3 of those pittsburgh bars & love em.. bought each one on sale for around 14 or 15 bucks each... i keep one in each car & one for the garage ...i love my american made sk tools, but u just cant beat these for the price... even not on sale i think theyre only around 20 bucks... i got the first two originally for just a "cheap keep it in the car for emergencys" kinda thang, but after seeing all the great reviews, i grabbed another one when i caught a sale to keep in my main tool box in the shop... & while im sure that both bars are good quality, & no offense to hf & icon, but if im spending that much (ie; icon) for a tool, im going to "harryjepstines" website & im buying an sk... & btw as a fellow coffee drinker i loved the intro... ironically i was brewing my morning coffee while clicking on ur video... thanx bro & have a blessed & "well-caffeinated" day (haha)
Great review,I’ll take the Pittsburgh breaker bar but for torque wrenchs the icon is nice,I’m looking forward to the ratchet video
You speak the truth about some tool truck driver will not warranty stuff but i got pretty good tool truck guys
Awesome video man
lol snap on 'joe'. that was my actual situation with our snappy guy. and his name was joe. now i got gear wrench 120xp ratchets and as far as 'breaker bars' go, my big as 1/2 drive cornwell flex head 27" ratchet gets that done just fine.
I speak for everyone when I say the biggest and most important question went unanswered and that question is does the icon have an all steel construction by that im asking if the steel extends all the way to the end of the soft grip handle? On the pittsburgh it does not I snapped the handle on mine im half using a cheater pipe just as you did maybe you can answer this question thanks for a great video Im subing
You know you are not the first one to ask me that. I am planning on making something to get these handles off and we will find out! Thanks for watching and subbing Brandon.
Not gonna lie had a bad first experince buying a torque wrench all the harbor freight torque wrenches got hard when turning the dial to a point where it wont move under halfway returned and got a craftsman :/
Thanks for making the videos 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Harbor freight is taking over as be speak. Icon brand is a direct competitor with other professional brands and they are gonna get better
Awesome video bro and great information thanks for the review again.
I mean it’s a steel rod..... not much to change. Pittsburgh all day
I have a steel rod for u
😂😂
fuzzy wuzzy I’m waiting 😘
The Icon torque wrench and snap ring plier set looks promising to me and they are on my wish list. But this breaker bar leaves me scratching my head compared to the soft grip Pittsburgh which is a big bang for the buck. I agree the CR V steel may be a little better quality but for 2.5x the price? If the head had a ball detent and end of the handle took a ratchet anvil, I would spring for one. The ratchets will be interesting to see and I wonder how the tooth engagement, smoothness and backdrag will compare to dual drive 80 SnapOn or you Matco.
I agree. It's funny you mention the ratchets I am uploading a video on ratchets as we speak that i say the same thing lol. Thanks for watching and commenting John.
The ratchet video is good!
Chrom Vanadium are additives in the steel to increase hardness and ductility.
Thanks for the info Brad I appreciate it. And you are right about snap on. Appreciate you watching and commenting brother.
Nice video thank you for making it.
I dont like the back and fourth play between the Socket and the ears of the handle on the Pittsburgh Breaker bar. Also half of the handle isnt even backed by metal. There needs to be tighter tolerances on in that section and I could care less about the grip. I just need a tool that works.
Good review and appreciate your thoughts on these tools. I have the Pittsburgh breaker bar and have been happy with it, sometimes they have a coupon where you can get it even a little bit cheaper. I have used cheater bars too, you gotta do what you need to get the job done.
After the intro making the coffee, looked so good I had to go make myself a cup. LoL
Looks like the icon bar flexed a little more than the Pittsburgh
I think it did flex more for sure
Their not both made in Taiwan, Pittsburgh is made in China, Icon in Taiwan, Also another channel did a very detailed testing of these and they both broke between 270 and 280 lbs of torgque, both good for what they are.
I followed a snap on tool truck to warranty a snap on ratchet and he hasnt ordered it.
ICON you out of your money!!!
AvE would be proud of your intro
I think the metal type probably both the same. Just different names on it.
They may be I really don't know but watching the flex of the ICON compared to the pittsburgh as well as feel and look leads me to believe that it is probably either better metal or the treating process was better. As I said though the Pittsburgh really is a good breaker bar I have put it to the test many of times and it hasn't failed me yet. Thanks for watching amd for your input it means a lot.
Love your videos man, they are awesome.
One note (6:30 point in video you say that carbon content is 5-7%) if memory serves correct carbon steels could go up to 2 percent by definition. 1095 would have 0.95% carbon whereas 1084 steel would have 0.84% carbon. Once the carbon content surpasses 2% the carbon can no longer form a structure and then would become "loose" aka graphite. So this is why cast iron (with carbon between 2% and 7% I believe) is not ductile and isn't made in tools. While these breaker bars are CrV giving them a 61xx Sae designation, the last two numbers would still have to represent a carbon content under 2% and more likely between .5% and .9% if I made a guess.
Still awesome channel man.
Thanks for that info brother!
I guess you could say the oldest joke in the book is that you would buy harbor freight tools use them once and throw them away but I seen your tool test then maybe I'll start buying them tools again then because the longest time I'll go to Sears or Lowe's or home Depot and buy their tools
Bro... Gotta gets them squirrels, gettin out of your head lol...
You keep nailin it, your doing fine... The Pittsboro is the to go tool, the ICON is a tool youd upgrade to, when you have the cash an the older tool should be upgraded IMO, not saying theres nothing wrong ownin a Snap On, MAC, Craftsman, proto or Pittsboro.. as long as they get the job done an it doesnt cost you a arm an leg to do the job.. Its a bonus if the tool last and you make a profit from it, its a complete differant story if the tool cost you a grip and it breaks, when you need it the most !
I think your doin good, just keep pushing on.. Stay focused on your skills an do what you do best bud 😁🤘🤘👍👍
Edit: noticed them squirrels kept around, this hole time an they like eating them nuts, even today loooooool
You realize it is more expensive than Craftsman. Would someone buy ICON over Craftsman?
I probably wouldn't either but craftsman tools aren't that great of quality anymore either. I did have an 18 inch craftsman breaker bar that was pretty decent. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Vanadium is Alloy Steel AISI 6150
Thanks a lot Ric I appreciate your input on my videos both criticism and praise it really helps me.
What happened to this channel? Why did he stop posting videos?
We tseted both and the Icon is a bit stronger but only by a few ft lbs.
Good channel, thanks. I’ll sub.
Barely looks any different, same steel maybe different heat treat and you got the shaft on that matco ratchet.
I agree lol.
Great video my brother.
Thanks my brother.
Your videos are a clearer and the audio is better.
The intro felt almost like aVe's videos except I knew better when it was a Keurig instead of a mr coffee he found at the dump
No offense, but this is a terrible comparison. They're both made of cr-v steel. The cheaper one will work for most people, even pros. They've both been stress tested and both hold up. Snap on hand tools are made in the usa.
The icon is a re branded Pittsburgh pro
The Icon is the better wrench and does cost more to make. But... you proved you don't need it to be better than the Pittsburgh, Pittburg is all you need. Some people feel better about spending more money.
They already proved the Pittsburgh is just as good as the tool Truck brands so of course this isn’t any better. It is solely designed for the mechanics too proud to carry the Pittsburgh logo and for the people that believe spending more money gets them better quality. HF is trying to create a different image for their tools and honestly they are gonna push more people away than they are going to attract. Most people will pay a bit more for a name brand tool and these prices of their products are getting closer to the big names. This is a complete fail in my opinion.
as long as they carry the cheaper options it shouldn't affect their reputations or sales. Harbour freight developed solid base of customers selling fair products for fair price. now they experiment with diffrent price brackets. for diffrent names. while the breaker bar is dude in my opinion the icon snap ring plier set is excellent choice
The tool trucks are a horrible deal for the drivers. Especially Snap-On. They sell their tools yet the driver has to be the one to invest in the tools, truck and cover warranty's themselves. They can get comped for the warranty, but they have to submit it to get the replacement part or tool they warrantied. It's very expensive and the return is just not there.
The companies should supply the truck and tools to the driver and just employ the driver but give them incentives to sell items so the driver can actually make a living at what they are doing, not have sleepless nights because they aren't making a decent living at their job.
By all means support them but call their companies and demand they receive better treatment.
Otherwise, Harbor Freight puts out some pretty good tools and I have no problem using them.
It’s not full circle the real money comes in manufacturing, America needs more manufacturing.
I agree with you buddy but the cost to produce american goods vs the income of Americans is not enough. So selling imported goods does at least create jobs.