As a former, longer-term (6 years) employee of HF, I can tell you a lot of stories about what our customers report about the items sold there. I was there for the beginnings of the "Good. Better. Best." plan for their products, but even before that, there were some items that contractors in my area did not hesitate to buy. My most memorable was a contractor wanting a 12" miter saw. He told me he had the 10" version that he used 6 days a week for 3 years before it finally gave up and did not hesitate in his decision to get the 12". Even when I started there, some of the tools were more than good enough for professional use. At that time, HF was not targeted to the professional, but the DIY/occasional project crowd. The decision to make huge improvements in most of their products was customer driven in a lot of ways - even DIY'ers want better, more reliable tools at reasonable prices! I also like that you think a bit "out of the box" on some things. Why pay $10 for a drop cloth when you can get a tarp for $5 - or FREE?
Welder here 👋 I've can say I've never had a problem returning items to HBF. Got a toolbox from them, and the warranty. Couple months later it was crushed by a weldment so I brought in a piece of the box and volioa brand new tool box was ready to go.
I have needed a water pump to siphon water from my pond this summer. I'm an Echo landscape pro, an have a WP1000 gas powered water pump. This WP's in shop for carburetor replacement, I've needed a backup pump just for this reason. Well let me say Harbor Freight came to the rescue. I bought there 1 inch gas powered water pump for 210.00 this is the best pump I've owned. It runs 4 garden hoses, 500 + feet at full capacity that operates 6 sprinklers on my 7 acre farm. This 4 stroke pump will run 1.5 hours on a full tank of gas, where as WP, only 30 minutes.
I've been woodworking for 35 years and top 100,000 a year in profit. With that said my miter saw is a Hercules and I'll never own another brand miter saw again. It's just that great. My router is a Bauer and my table saw is a Hercules as well. The people that down harbor freight of yester year have a great point. But if they haven't used the newer stuff they don't have a leg to stand on
Im an Hvac/refrigeration/restaurant equipment technician. I use HF tools every day along with my Milwaukee and Walmart tools. Pros use what gets the job done not what is most popular. Great advice bro.
I’m a general contractor and have invested the majority of my money in Milwaukee products for the sake of simplicity. It’s easier to have one line of batteries and chargers than it is to have 2, 3, or even 5. However, there are certainly some items that I have purchased from HF without hesitation. Their Hercules 9” grinder for leveling out uneven concrete, or their Hercules 66lb breaker. I bought a Bauer 14” concrete saw and had the switch go out on me the first 5 minutes of use, but had no problems exchanging it. Sadly, the replacement ended up doing the same thing after about 60 minutes of combined cut time. I used an auto switch with the shop vac plugged into the saw port, and the saw plugged into the vacuum port to finish cutting the foundation for a plumbing addition, then returned it a couple days after the purchase…again, without any issues. Their new farm jack works wonders on ripping out fence posts with the concrete set still attached, too.
I'm loving this series. I'm just a garage woodworker but I am not ashamed of using HBF tools. I've been burnt before but overall I have been happy with my purchases.
I like what you are doing! It’s great to see/hear the difference between America and England…..I mean we just don’t spray paint our homes, don’t ask me why it’s so obvious but we don’t! Bob England
I bought a few of the furniture dollies just for the casters. They work well and are cheaper than buying casters alone. As a side benefit, the wood can be used for small projects. I also love their 5 drawer tool cart. Their tool chests are top quality and compare with the super high-priced (Snapon, Matco, etc) units at a much cheaper price.
I’m a solo handyman. Because I do a bit of everything, I need a large variety tools. Many of them may only be used a few times a year so they don’t take a daily beating as a full time plumber,for example. I buy higher quality core tools, but for the occasional use tools, I find HF to be adequate. A few gems I’ve found: Bauer 4.5” mini circular saw, Avanti HVLP paint sprayer, Hardy gloves, Pittsburgh adjustable length comfort grip ratchets, HF clamps, knee pads, any of the pliers/hand tools from Quinn or Doyle, and tons of consumables-zip ties, duct tape, WD40 and all those assortment boxes of o-rings, washers, clips, etc. I’ll admit the quality of most Pittsburgh tools is low, but lifetime guarantee means instant, no hassle replacement. If you’re really crafty, return an item from a set. They will open a set to give you the single item and then the open box will show up discounted at the clearance rack. Afterthought: the Franklin (little giant) ladder is excellent. Really no reason to pay more for the name brand. Also, at $9.99 each, who can’t love the redneck flex of having 3 angle grinders with different wheels??? That’s ballin’.
I’m a master electrician working in an industrial environment but also flip houses. When I’m not doing those things I’m working on vintage cars or completing various wood working projects. I have a bunch of HF tools in my shop and on my truck. After all my cordless dewalt tools were stolen in 2019, I didn’t have the stomach to make that investment again. I needed tools so the Bauer line was a quick and cheap option. At the time, the Hercules line only had a few items so I chose Bauer. I have been using Bauer cordless drills and impact drivers since 2019 and haven’t had a failure. I purchased some 3ah batteries then a few 5 ah when they came available. Still using batteries purchased in 2019, 2020 and 2021. All my Bauer tools are cordless except for the trim router which is identical to the makita trim router for about half the cost. Currently I have the Bauer grinder, impact wrenches 3/8 and 1/2, circ saw, jig saw, recip saw, blower, glue gun, lights. And probably a couple more I can’t think of now. I have upgraded a few items to brushless as they have came available. Still used the brushed versions when needing multiple bits for a single job. Overall, the value to performance is great. Battery prices are ridiculously cheap compared to the Milwaukee and dewalt. I know they aren’t the same quality as Milwaukee, dewalt or makita and would never think they would compete head to head. they are definitely in the same category as ryobi, craftman and rigid but for less money. Drills and impact drivers get used daily and have held up for 3 years. When your employer purchases tools for you, sure get the best. When dropping your own bucks…I’m gonna spend money on a tool that works, doesn’t slow me down and doesn’t bust my margins. When these tools fail, I’ll drop 40 bucks and have another three or four years of use. If I was getting into a new tool line now, I would go with Hercules for two reasons. HF have expanded the Hercules tool line and they offer a 5 year warranty.
Flooring Contractor - Buaer Electric Osilating Tool and one handed Recipicating Saw, 20v 5amp batteries. 2 batteries last all day. Get fast charger+. Also have used their tile saws for years.
Professional furniture refinishing/repair guy, and I have power tools bought from Harbor Freight that I use just about everyday: oscillating multitool, orbital sander, circular saw, and drill. I generally buy the cheapest one that has the features I want with the extended warranty, and if they fail, they are cheap to replace. Overall, they have lasted as long as the Craftsman tools I bought at Sears back in the day.
@@dougbrown7150 I have the 3 amp corded model. I did not feel the 1.6 amp model would be sufficiently powerful to made deep plunge cuts that sometimes are through nails. I also wanted the constant, all-day power of the corded model which is no problem since I do most my work at a bench.
Concrete superintendent here: Wrenches, pliers, and socket sets. They are soooo much cheaper at HF. I wouldn't use them on my motorcycle or truck, but for general jobsite use where things are routinely lost, stolen, or ruined they can be a huge savings, not the Icon brand, but Pittsburgh brand. Its just a shame they can only be bought in sets. That being said i can usually buy a set for what I might pay for three or four single wrenches or sockets at HD or Lowes.
I love your series on HF. Great video. I bought one of the paint sprayers for 20 bucks. If it didn't work, I didn't lose much money. I had to stain a wooden picket fence and I though it was a great time to use it. IT WAS GAME CHANGING! It worked great. I didn't have to use a brush or a rag to get in between the slats. My whole family are giving me gift cards from there for Christmas.
I was remodeling contractor for years, and one day, my air compressor died. Harborfreight was close so I bought a fortress small compressor to run trim. It was as it said 40 percent quieter. I could actually talk over it running. Used almost daily for years. Still have it and works fine. Another hidden gem at HF.
Worked in the oil industry for 14 years and now a tractor mechanic. I have put the Pittsburgh pry bars through a lot of abuse and they have never let me down. That being said I don't know if they make them as good as they use to but the set I have has definitely seen a lot of action.
Hi there I’m a 30 yr craftsman and I use harbor freight tools I have a grinder that I use all the time for stone work etc . Found out with there hand held grinders if you remove the top housing and add more grease to it they will last a long time
43 years in the woodworking/general contracting field, I used to feel the same way about Harbor Freight’s tools. I wrote them off as junk and only purchased commercial grade tools, in the last 10 years or so, Harbor Freight’s tools have become of a much higher quality. I now have several tools in my shop that came from Harbor Freight. Admittedly, most are small hand and electric tools that don’t typically see daily use and that is where the magic happens. I can get these tools of convenience at a third the cost of the brand items and if they break, so what! I had an O-ring go out on my Senco finish nailer in the middle of an install job, Harbor Freight was right down the street and I picked up one of theirs to finish the day out… Been using it without issues for three years now. I have many examples of similar situations but now I’m a regular at Harbor Freight. 👍👍👍
I’m a system mechanic on a natural gas transmission system and a use a few different things from harbor freight but the one thing that everyone should have two or three of is the little orange handle pick set. I use them all the time in places I would have never thought about.
I am a professional Furniture repair Technician and travel to customers houses to perform repairs in their homes. I have a small arsenal of moving blankets from HF that I swear by. I also do A LOT of leather repairs onsite and have the air brush compressor from HF that has lasted for 4 years and still reliable. My guns I prefer the badger 250 model, but HF does have a quick change airbrush gun with 5 bottles that is a great backup piece. I use the Bauer heat gun with leather repair as well.
I have several Hercules power tools including the 12" miter saw (mounted on a Delta portable stand). 20v drill, driver, circ saw, heat gun, blower, vacuum, and job site blue tooth speake/radio. The only item I'm not really super pleased with so far is the radio. 😮... I'm 56 and have been using power tools professionally for around 25 years and can honestly endorse the Hercules line as a comparable product to any other color out there. What isn't comparable is price. Guessing I've saved handy to $500 minimum by choosing the herc tools over lets say the yellow and black. They run pretty much everyday of the week and haven't let me down yet.
I am a semi-pro handyman. I loaned out my Krause & Becker sprayer to friend and he didn’t clean it. It’s now in a landfill somewhere. I was careful to go over the cleaning procedure and even gave him a copy of the manual. I had used it for about 5 years and it was as good as new. Just a word to the wise. I replaced it with the Avanti and I’m happy with it, as well.
Hercules 12 in slide miter saw has blown any other saw I have ever had. Came out of the box dead accurate. The green and yellow saws I have had needed readjustment every other job it seemed. And it was about $200 cheaper than the old standbys. Hercules orbital sander is another fantastical tool from the "junk"store. Keep it up HB just get accessories available for the Hercules stuff!
as a professional harbor freight is stepping up their game . but even back then say like 10 yrs ago i liked going to HF it was like going to a garage sale that u might find something good even tho u did some modifications.
I work as an industrial maintenance tech, and I use Harbor Freight's Pittsburgh brand wrenches almost daily. I also have a Craftsman set that was a gift and see little if any difference.
I'm a working hands on GC. Active jobsite = missing tools and pcs. People think they are theirs or just take it. I do like the Bauer and Hercules tools. Best advice I got from a former HF manager is to always get the extended warranty. Good advice. Chicago Electric is ok but light duty and more homeowner and DIY strength and longevity. If you're like me I also recommend buying into the "inside track club" Harbor Freight is awesome and every time I go in there its packed!
All kinds of pros use HF. Just picked up, LED work lights, paint extension pole, storage containers and a box of cheap carabineers to hang stuff on my belt. Start out new employees there. Hercules has been popular, told a guy he could have any tape measure he wanted, he wanted to keep his Hercules. Scissors and dikes from Quin. New tool belts are good. They should contract with rodenhouse for a line of screws, SPAX bought them a couple years ago.
Speaking of automotive: I have had a plug in 12v impact wrench since 2007 and have used it on countless times. Even loaned it to a friend who couldn't get his lawn mower blade off. Some of their stuff may not be the greatest, but, a lot is better than you might think.
I'm a professional handyman and woodworker and I buy from harbor freight all the time. I can say that their F Style clamps are absolutely perfect and a fraction of the cost of what you get at the big box stores
Finish carpentry/general woodworking. I love the 9 mil nitrile gloves for stain and finish work especially because they come in the XXL size I need. I use the same pair for multiple days without a tear or hole. I also love HF for their extension cords. I have both the 25 and 50’ foot, 10 gauge cords with the three way plugs on the end. There is always at least one out at every work site.
@@TheReformationWoodshop No, not at all. Usually a third to half of what they want at the big boxes. The 12 gauge are pretty reasonable too. Waste of money to buy anything lighter than 12.
I'm a hvac service guy and I have a large variety of tools that are on my service truck from harbor freight that are used on the daily basis and there warranty on hand tools is great its like how sears used to be its no question asked and you walk out with a new tool. I use there pipe wrenches hammers screwdrivers Pittsburgh pro adjustable wrenches I have the sds hammer drill just to name a few and they work just as good as any other
Been a mechanic for over 25 years and there are a lot of harbor freight tools I use. I think the number one is impact sockets. In the years I’ve had them, I’ve only broke one. A 21mm that I was not using on an impact driver. I was using it with a breaker bar. A lot of specialty automotive tools like a steering wheel puller and seal drivers and grease guns… all work great and have never had issues with them. I could go into a lot more but I would need a video series of my own to do that..
Professional woodworker, finish carpenter and general handyman here. I had the Hercules 12" miter saw. It was a get saw, but I unfortunately dropped it and had to get a new saw. I also have an Avanti 3 stage hvlp sprayer, which is similar to the Titan Capsray. I use it all the time.
As a woodworker, metal fabricator and electrician (I do lots of restoring) I am using lots of harbor freight tools and most of them are doing a great job, some of the tools I tried didn't perform as good but the total money saved made more than up for it. That said some expensive brand name tools have disappointed me before. I enjoy your videos, keep up the good work.
I like you channel very much. The one thing I have heard you say I don’t quite agree with. Biscuits: Lamello biscuits are worth the money. However I am a cabinet maker and purchase them in boxes of 1,000 for the size 20 my most commonly used sized. However at the box stores biscuits in a clear pack are sometimes lamello may have made them. Buy those. I have some smaller sizes I purchased packaged by Royobi they are stamped Lamello. I do appreciate your channel and thoughts.
Master Luthier. I used a ton of Harbor Freight tools. Angle grinders, heat guns, small chop saw, Disk and belt sanders, etc. Don't need to pay tons of money for tools.
Hotel maintenance here. I use the O-ring and wire connector kits. Have what I need and cheaper than just ordering the proper size I need. I also use their dead-blow plastic mallet. Does what it needs to do on the daily.
I am a professional handyman... I do pretty much every type of work. My main use for HF tools is to see if a tool is need or a want. If I have a job that is expanding my skill set I buy the tools from HFT. There are three possible results that I know will answer what I need to know about the new tools. 1) I use the tool and the job goes well. In which case I use the HF tool until it dies and then buy the version in my brand. 2) I use the tool and that is the last time I ever do that particular work. In which case I didn't drop a shit ton of money into tools to use once. 3) I use the tool from HFT and it dies right away. This case lets me know if I need the fave brand version or not and weather I am going to use the tool a lot or not. I do use any HF tool as if I were using it on the job... Even if it is a hobby tool (a lathe for example) and I have no problems with the ones that last. I find that HFT machine tools are either great or die fast. Then I decide if I am going to HFT for a new one or buy the brand...
The Avanti handheld sprayer is a straight up knock off of the Wagner Flex IO. They are awesome. Manual says to thin paint. I don't thin it, still works fine. Manual says not to run lacquer through it. I run lacquer through it. Still works fine.
Former Multi-Craft Maintenance Tech....I used HF tools every day, alongside Craftsman, Husky, Channel Lock and others. You do have to be choosy, but they do have some good stuff
Gunsmith, Woodworking, and Leather craft; I use their, screwdrivers, belt/disc sander, bench drill press, bench lathe. All consumables are bought at HF and other miscellaneous items like you mentioned, tarps etc. Well done with your list so far.
Both Hercules and Bauer offer corded and 20v cordless heat guns. I have the corded Hercules.....has lcd digital display with 5 fan speeds and temperature adjust in 10° increments.
I've used tons of Harbor Freight tools over the past 20 some odd years and yes there are some one-time-use tools but there are plenty of great tools that will last and work great.
I use Many brands of tools. I was ready to buy a $1,000 tile saw but a tile channel reviewed the HarborFreight Diamondback. I purchased that. I don’t do a lot of tile but needed a good quality saw. I am a carpenter/ cabinet maker. I use the HF dollies moving cabinets and all kinds of things. I own a Hercules 1/2 drill I like very much. A few Bauer tools. One is a hammer drill a STEAL for how well it works and price VS competition! Be Smart pick and choose.
I work in the oilfield. I promise you were harder on tools than any of the professions you mentioned, and you wouldn’t believe the amount of harbor freight hand tools we use. They’re fine, you just know what you’re getting. A tool at a price cheap enough that we can afford another when it breaks.
I build and repair guitars. I had the cheap heat gun, stripped the poly off one guitar body, and it was dead. Bought the Dewalt. I don't know where you are pricing them, but I bought mine for $79. I used the 3/8" adapter in my Impact wrench. It wouldn't click in, but would work. So I used it on some lag bolts, using pretty good pressure. It must've spun internally in some weird way, because now I can't get it out. Turned my impact into a drive. I hope the bit never breaks!
Great thing about the low end drill presses is that when the quill dies, you still have a great motor. Fact is if you buy the cheep drill press on sale, you can scrap the press and keep the motor it will be cheeper than any other motor for it's horsepower. I have two motors that power my El cheepo Variable Speed HF Lathe, and my home made drum sanding table.
I just found your channel and love the “...Tools you Need from HF” series. We just came from our local HF and the wood biscuits are on clearance for $4.99.
I had a similar argument with a friend on a neumatic nailer he's saying his name brand would shoot 4 or 5 thousand nails without issues. Well my Harbor Freight framing nailer has been working now for five years. Not used daily, but I am approaching 3000 or more nails. It's made and saved me a lot of money.
I bought a framing nailer for a specific job that I was doing. Got one from Harbor Freight that was cheap. The nail gun and all the nails came from there. The whole point was to do it myself and save the cost of labor for someone else doing it. I saved the money and that nail gun still works to this day. That was 6 years ago. I don't use it all the time, but when I do use it it works. I was technically ready to throw it away after I finish the project but I felt like I should hang on to it until it officially broke. I might have it for a while
Same-I got to a job and forgot my trim nailer. A HF was much closer than my house so I picked up a Central Pneumatic trim nailer for about $17. Did the whole job with it and have used it at home dozens of times for small projects.
I am an Engineer and have been a wood worker for 40 years... I love Harbor Freight... Common sense has to prevail - some cheap crap is just that. However, a Drill press from Harbor Freight is a great deal for example. In addition, I bought the oil-less 175 PSI compressor there when it was on sale. I have had it several years and it just works great. I had another oil less compressor some years ago and it wore out after 15 years or so. I am 67 - so 10 more years will get me buy. Don't buy the cheapest tools there and you will be fairly happy with what you get.
I have the Doyle dikes, crimpers, channel locks that are every bit as good as Klien. Also have Daytona jack which from what I have heard is made in the same china factory as the Snap on version. All at about half the cost.
Please note: it can be very dangerous using impact guns with non-impact rated sockets. They can explode. Use a drill driver for regular chrome sockets.
I've been working on cars for over 40 years and have never had an issue with non‐impact rated sockets and impact guns...never. That goes for tools bought at HF or any anywhere else.
Can’t recommend a heat gun enough, not only for woodworking but for general house stuff as well! I use it all the time to help take off adhesive stickers honestly.
Look into the Hercules line. Bought jobsite 10in. table saw. For what I paid, I could buy three comp to one Dewalt. So I did buy three. Have set up with different blades for different type of cutting. I have a client list going back over 45 yrs. It now has spanned to other generation of original clients. I am not a "tool snob" . Currently I have Delta, Craftsman, Wen, Grizzly and Harbor Freight. The "TOOL" does not make the woodworker/woodturner/craftsman. Quite the opposite. One does not need to own the most expensive tool. It will not show you how to make something better. Having knowledge of the tool(s) one is working with(read manual) will make life a lot easier. know the strengths and limitations. For example; I have HF full size lathe, 3/4 hp motor is underpowered for large/heavy turnings. It can be upgraded. Used for lite to medium turnings it is perfect. So if not broken do not fix it. For heavier pieces I have ordered a American Beauty by robust tools for larger/heavier pieces and will continue to use the HF lathe. As to my experience, long term addict of woodworking/woodturning. I feel no one ever masters their craft until they are gone and remembered for their craft.
Not sure if this counts as a tradesman, however, I've been working with and on computers for over 40 years (programmer, system admin, operations, computer room, hardware repair, etc.) and I have used HF tools for over 20 of them. Been using their hand tools, mainly the Pittsburgh line. In over 20 years I've only had 2 of them I had to return and had no trouble getting them replaced. Used some of their drill drivers with no issues for years. Are they the best, probably not, however, they work and if it has a lifetime warranty, they back it up and replace it.
Good to hear! What brand are the nippers? And what length? I was in today and they have a rather large pair and I’d like to see if they have a smaller option. Maybe even an Icon option.
@@TheReformationWoodshop i don't remember the brand but they have the orange handles, slightly larger than the traditional husky nippers at home Depot. There's a lot of nail removal in my line of work so the extra length on the handles makes for good leverage.
I started using their "F" style bar clamps, hand screw clamps and Quick Release Bar Clamps for various projects such as cutting boards, patio furniture etc. I also use their saw horses and furniture dollies. Their entry level hammer drill is a beast for drilling old concrete and I also like their circular saw blades.
Good items to have in the shop. I bought the Warrior heat gun last Fall when it was on sale for $9.99 and it works as intended. Project Farm (on YT) did a video on pliers and the Knipex did very well, but the Icon wasn't out at that time. On the hex-bit socket adapters, I'd pay the extra $1.50 and get the Hercules since impact drivers can be a bit hard on them.
I have been using HF for 10 years or more and I have learned that not every product that is sold there deserves your attention. However if you do buy any of their power tools don't hesitate to take advantage of the extended "free in store replacement plans" I have about 25 HF items that I rotate every 2 years on. Drills, saws, sanders, and electronics. I actually have a HF return calendar on the wall in my shop with all the "return by date for a free replacement with "No questions asked". Oh and when you get that free replacement the warranty usually transfers to the replacement item so you are in effect getting a lifetime warranty. The few that it was not automatically transferred on they let me buy another for ridiculously low price of the original warranty (usually between $10 and $30 for those Bauer $80 and $100 cordless drills or saws or whatever. So I don't have to buy another one for ever at this point. It's a no brainer and the first few times I turned them down and then went back once with a defective drill press and they were really sorry but the manufacturers warranty has expired and reminded me that the 2 year warranty is only $30 for that $200 item. I learned pretty early on that if you are going to buy from them and actually use the tool get the warranty so you don't have to buy a new one. Even if there is nothing wrong with it I still take it in and at the least get that warranty extended. BAM! HF is also as stated in most of these vids the only place to go for some of these consumables. Why pay more to save you money? You have to keep buying them so pay less and you can afford to buy more sooner.
I appreciate these videos. One quibble, that plier wrench is more a copy of the Knipex 8603250, you're holding the Icon against the better counterpart with better grips and different jaws. But that less expensive Knipex is still $20-$30 more depending on where you buy them, compared to the price you showed.
Another use for the heat gun - if you're water popping wood during your sanding process, dry it with the heat gun and you don't have to wait for it to dry naturally. Saves me a ton of time.
I have a lot of Harbor Freight tools. Quality is hit or miss on the power tools. Reciprocating saw cut twice then no longer Reciprocated. Had a hammer drill, did one job and put it away. pulled it out a few years later, did not work. My bench drill press has had no problems except the surface rust on the table. Hand tools and consumables are great value for the money. My oldest on has been in the HVAC business since high school. He is constantly loosing his tools and finding other tools under houses and in the attics. Gets his hand tools from Harbor Freight so it does not hurt as bad when they are lost.
Over the years I have found that their precision tools like routers either disintegrate when you turn them on or they work great and give great value for the money. With the newer tool lines they’ve upped their game and most tools are at least decent. Gotta be careful buying some stuff though as they will slip in some things at higher prices than the big box stores.
That heat gun will light a charcoal fire and have it ready to cook in 10 minutes without any lighter, lighter fluid or anything else. Just concentrate on a coal until it gets going, then move it around. It's simple and doesn't make your food taste like lighter fluid. I use that same $15 version for my grill and can't imagine going back to coal with fluid in it or using a lighter or fanning flames. The heat gun does it all.
Another good tool if you have a chainsaw, the chain grinding wheel setup they have for $30 is a much better deal than the competitor. Grind the chain then hand sharpen to touch it up after every use, then grind it after hand sharpening a few times to keep the angles correct.
I have one of those as well. I sat down one day while we were clearing some acreage around our house and sharpened six chains in about 25 minutes. It's so easy to just move from one notch to the next then from one chain to the next. We were able to work all day without having to stop to sharpen chains
@@dominicchappell1399 super useful when you have storm damage that needs to be cleaned up quickly. Lost 2 trees last night, one top blew out one was some very hard to spot root rot.
I like their 18" x 22" dollies. I have a small shop and I put my tools (planer, belt sander, miter saw, etc.) on them so they can easily slide in and out from under the workbench. Easy to access when needed and easy to get out of the way when not. Enjoyed your videos and thanks for the tips. I will have to take a closer look at some of their other products.
people try to tell me HF doesn't last as long as a DeWalt or Milwaukee. If you spend a few dollars more and get the 2 year replacement plan you can keep getting a brand new tool every 2 years (or 1) for the price of the warranty. It will definitely outlast the competition that way!
@@TheReformationWoodshop haha cheaper than lowes, I don’t have a Home Depot and they’ve never let me down yet (Hercules anyway) I have some of the cheaper stuff like a Chicago electric miter saw and I can’t seem to get it tuned just right but still good enough for me. When they start letting me down I’ll switch haha
I'm kinda new to woodworking. Recently I found that I am short on clamps and especially larger clamps. HF has them for half the price if not more than some of the big names. Are the clamps at HF reliable and worth buying?
I bought some quick release, 6" C clamps from HF. The ratcheting system failed. However, There are alot of other tools and equipment I've had great use of.
I like their F-style clamps. Dirt cheap and do medium strength work well. Don't expect perfection from them...use them for what they are designed for and within design parameters, and they do well. I own 24 of the 6"er's, 12 of the 12"er's, and 6ea of the 18",24",36". Also bought a 6x48" belt sander about 30yrs ago. Used it to sand 4" gift boxes that I made in 500 box lots...about 15 times a year for 6 years. Had to replace the bearings in the driven spindle twice, and the idle spindle once. Would have likely had to do that on any other sander brand. Still have it...still runs strong. Drill presses. Wow. I worked in a frame shop where we bored literally thousands of #6 countersink holes weekly. Had one 8" press set up just to do that, one press to do other work, and a spare under the bench. The countersink press ran twenty hours a week, 52 weeks a year. Burnt up two of those every year...but...that's pro grade work out of a (at the time) $40 drill press. I wasn't mad about it...neither was the boss. By the way...I have 35+ yrs of woodworking experience. I like HFT, but you have to decide what you're going to do with a tool, how frequently you're going to use it, and if you're going to use it...or abuse it. Most HFT stuff won't take the kind of abuse the daily pros give tools...everybody else can make HFT work. My story...and I'm stickin' to it!
Nice vid, and it’s always fun to see tools from someone else’s point of view. The one thing I differ with you on is the opinion that one biscuit is equal to the next. I have used Porter-Cable, Ryobi, Harbor Freight, Excel Dowel, a couple generics and genuine Lamello biscuites, and there’s a huge difference that actually can make a difference. They are all designed to fit into a 4 mm slot, but from there the engendering matters. Search for a video from Lamello titled “How they’re made: Colonial Saw Lamello Original Biscuits”. Lamello is the originator of plate joinery and they put a lot of thought and effort into their biscuits. All that said, on edge to edge joints, like a table top, it really doesn’t matter because that joint, made with parts that are properly machined and with modern glues, really doesn’t even need a connector. Scott
I'm kinda late to the comments on this, but I was going to say basically the same thing, there is absolutely a difference between biscuits. I've had the best luck with the Lamello & Frued biscuits (use to use them by the thousands & buy them several cases at a time) The WORST I ever used were Porter Cable biscuits! Most would be really "flaky" and if you didn't weed them out while assembling you would ALWAYS end up with flakes braking off and getting between the parts you were joining together causing you to have to take everything apart and start over? I don't use biscuits anywhere near as often as I use to these days (no longer making that product that required so many) but I still have several boxes of the Porter Cable biscuits left over to still frustrate me when I do need to use biscuits. I keep swearing I'm going to just throw them away, but haven't done it yet?
As a former, longer-term (6 years) employee of HF, I can tell you a lot of stories about what our customers report about the items sold there. I was there for the beginnings of the "Good. Better. Best." plan for their products, but even before that, there were some items that contractors in my area did not hesitate to buy. My most memorable was a contractor wanting a 12" miter saw. He told me he had the 10" version that he used 6 days a week for 3 years before it finally gave up and did not hesitate in his decision to get the 12". Even when I started there, some of the tools were more than good enough for professional use. At that time, HF was not targeted to the professional, but the DIY/occasional project crowd. The decision to make huge improvements in most of their products was customer driven in a lot of ways - even DIY'ers want better, more reliable tools at reasonable prices! I also like that you think a bit "out of the box" on some things. Why pay $10 for a drop cloth when you can get a tarp for $5 - or FREE?
All good insights! Thanks!
Heavy civil contractor and we use everything from generators to small engines, chains, flashlights and everything in between from harbor freight.
Commercial sparky, retired cabinet maker here. I now use the doyal pliers, and Bauer tool belt. As well as many other hidden gems.
Carpenter of 25 years I now own the Hercules table saw and 12" compound miter saw and love them both had them for 2 years and use them daily
Welder here 👋
I've can say I've never had a problem returning items to HBF. Got a toolbox from them, and the warranty. Couple months later it was crushed by a weldment so I brought in a piece of the box and volioa brand new tool box was ready to go.
I have needed a water pump to siphon water from my pond this summer. I'm an Echo landscape pro, an have a WP1000 gas powered water pump. This WP's in shop for carburetor replacement, I've needed a backup pump just for this reason. Well let me say Harbor Freight came to the rescue. I bought there 1 inch gas powered water pump for 210.00 this is the best pump I've owned. It runs 4 garden hoses, 500 + feet at full capacity that operates 6 sprinklers on my 7 acre farm. This 4 stroke pump will run 1.5 hours on a full tank of gas, where as WP, only 30 minutes.
I've been woodworking for 35 years and top 100,000 a year in profit. With that said my miter saw is a Hercules and I'll never own another brand miter saw again. It's just that great. My router is a Bauer and my table saw is a Hercules as well. The people that down harbor freight of yester year have a great point. But if they haven't used the newer stuff they don't have a leg to stand on
Im an Hvac/refrigeration/restaurant equipment technician. I use HF tools every day along with my Milwaukee and Walmart tools. Pros use what gets the job done not what is most popular. Great advice bro.
I’m a general contractor and have invested the majority of my money in Milwaukee products for the sake of simplicity. It’s easier to have one line of batteries and chargers than it is to have 2, 3, or even 5. However, there are certainly some items that I have purchased from HF without hesitation.
Their Hercules 9” grinder for leveling out uneven concrete, or their Hercules 66lb breaker. I bought a Bauer 14” concrete saw and had the switch go out on me the first 5 minutes of use, but had no problems exchanging it. Sadly, the replacement ended up doing the same thing after about 60 minutes of combined cut time. I used an auto switch with the shop vac plugged into the saw port, and the saw plugged into the vacuum port to finish cutting the foundation for a plumbing addition, then returned it a couple days after the purchase…again, without any issues.
Their new farm jack works wonders on ripping out fence posts with the concrete set still attached, too.
I'm loving this series. I'm just a garage woodworker but I am not ashamed of using HBF tools. I've been burnt before but overall I have been happy with my purchases.
Appreciate it man! I think 99% of people feel the same way. 🙌🏼
I like what you are doing! It’s great to see/hear the difference between America and England…..I mean we just don’t spray paint our homes, don’t ask me why it’s so obvious but we don’t!
Bob
England
I bought a few of the furniture dollies just for the casters. They work well and are cheaper than buying casters alone. As a side benefit, the wood can be used for small projects. I also love their 5 drawer tool cart. Their tool chests are top quality and compare with the super high-priced (Snapon, Matco, etc) units at a much cheaper price.
I’m a solo handyman. Because I do a bit of everything, I need a large variety tools. Many of them may only be used a few times a year so they don’t take a daily beating as a full time plumber,for example. I buy higher quality core tools, but for the occasional use tools, I find HF to be adequate. A few gems I’ve found: Bauer 4.5” mini circular saw, Avanti HVLP paint sprayer, Hardy gloves, Pittsburgh adjustable length comfort grip ratchets, HF clamps, knee pads, any of the pliers/hand tools from Quinn or Doyle, and tons of consumables-zip ties, duct tape, WD40 and all those assortment boxes of o-rings, washers, clips, etc. I’ll admit the quality of most Pittsburgh tools is low, but lifetime guarantee means instant, no hassle replacement. If you’re really crafty, return an item from a set. They will open a set to give you the single item and then the open box will show up discounted at the clearance rack.
Afterthought: the Franklin (little giant) ladder is excellent. Really no reason to pay more for the name brand. Also, at $9.99 each, who can’t love the redneck flex of having 3 angle grinders with different wheels??? That’s ballin’.
I’m a master electrician working in an industrial environment but also flip houses. When I’m not doing those things I’m working on vintage cars or completing various wood working projects. I have a bunch of HF tools in my shop and on my truck. After all my cordless dewalt tools were stolen in 2019, I didn’t have the stomach to make that investment again. I needed tools so the Bauer line was a quick and cheap option. At the time, the Hercules line only had a few items so I chose Bauer. I have been using Bauer cordless drills and impact drivers since 2019 and haven’t had a failure. I purchased some 3ah batteries then a few 5 ah when they came available. Still using batteries purchased in 2019, 2020 and 2021. All my Bauer tools are cordless except for the trim router which is identical to the makita trim router for about half the cost. Currently I have the Bauer grinder, impact wrenches 3/8 and 1/2, circ saw, jig saw, recip saw, blower, glue gun, lights. And probably a couple more I can’t think of now. I have upgraded a few items to brushless as they have came available. Still used the brushed versions when needing multiple bits for a single job. Overall, the value to performance is great. Battery prices are ridiculously cheap compared to the Milwaukee and dewalt. I know they aren’t the same quality as Milwaukee, dewalt or makita and would never think they would compete head to head. they are definitely in the same category as ryobi, craftman and rigid but for less money. Drills and impact drivers get used daily and have held up for 3 years. When your employer purchases tools for you, sure get the best. When dropping your own bucks…I’m gonna spend money on a tool that works, doesn’t slow me down and doesn’t bust my margins. When these tools fail, I’ll drop 40 bucks and have another three or four years of use. If I was getting into a new tool line now, I would go with Hercules for two reasons. HF have expanded the Hercules tool line and they offer a 5 year warranty.
Flooring Contractor - Buaer Electric Osilating Tool and one handed Recipicating Saw, 20v 5amp batteries. 2 batteries last all day. Get fast charger+. Also have used their tile saws for years.
Professional furniture refinishing/repair guy, and I have power tools bought from Harbor Freight that I use just about everyday: oscillating multitool, orbital sander, circular saw, and drill. I generally buy the cheapest one that has the features I want with the extended warranty, and if they fail, they are cheap to replace. Overall, they have lasted as long as the Craftsman tools I bought at Sears back in the day.
I’ve heard this a lot. Buy them cheap.. if they last… they last and you’ve lost nothing!
I'm looking for an oscilating multitool. Which of their models do you use? Pros and cons?
@@dougbrown7150 I have the 3 amp corded model. I did not feel the 1.6 amp model would be sufficiently powerful to made deep plunge cuts that sometimes are through nails. I also wanted the constant, all-day power of the corded model which is no problem since I do most my work at a bench.
Back in the day, we never thought we would use the term "back in the day" to refer to Craftsman tools
Recently retired RV Technician. I have tons of HF tools in my box. Everything from speed wrenches to impact sockets.
Concrete superintendent here: Wrenches, pliers, and socket sets. They are soooo much cheaper at HF. I wouldn't use them on my motorcycle or truck, but for general jobsite use where things are routinely lost, stolen, or ruined they can be a huge savings, not the Icon brand, but Pittsburgh brand. Its just a shame they can only be bought in sets. That being said i can usually buy a set for what I might pay for three or four single wrenches or sockets at HD or Lowes.
I love your series on HF. Great video. I bought one of the paint sprayers for 20 bucks. If it didn't work, I didn't lose much money. I had to stain a wooden picket fence and I though it was a great time to use it. IT WAS GAME CHANGING! It worked great. I didn't have to use a brush or a rag to get in between the slats. My whole family are giving me gift cards from there for Christmas.
I'm a carpenter out of local 175 in Louisville. We love harbor freight
I was remodeling contractor for years, and one day, my air compressor died. Harborfreight was close so I bought a fortress small compressor to run trim. It was as it said 40 percent quieter. I could actually talk over it running. Used almost daily for years. Still have it and works fine. Another hidden gem at HF.
Worked in the oil industry for 14 years and now a tractor mechanic. I have put the Pittsburgh pry bars through a lot of abuse and they have never let me down. That being said I don't know if they make them as good as they use to but the set I have has definitely seen a lot of action.
As far as I’ve heard the quality of most of their brands is only getting better 👍🏻
Pittsburgh also has lifetime warranties, I think.
Hi there I’m a 30 yr craftsman and I use harbor freight tools I have a grinder that I use all the time for stone work etc . Found out with there hand held grinders if you remove the top housing and add more grease to it they will last a long time
43 years in the woodworking/general contracting field, I used to feel the same way about Harbor Freight’s tools. I wrote them off as junk and only purchased commercial grade tools, in the last 10 years or so, Harbor Freight’s tools have become of a much higher quality. I now have several tools in my shop that came from Harbor Freight. Admittedly, most are small hand and electric tools that don’t typically see daily use and that is where the magic happens. I can get these tools of convenience at a third the cost of the brand items and if they break, so what! I had an O-ring go out on my Senco finish nailer in the middle of an install job, Harbor Freight was right down the street and I picked up one of theirs to finish the day out… Been using it without issues for three years now. I have many examples of similar situations but now I’m a regular at Harbor Freight. 👍👍👍
I’m a system mechanic on a natural gas transmission system and a use a few different things from harbor freight but the one thing that everyone should have two or three of is the little orange handle pick set. I use them all the time in places I would have never thought about.
I’m an aircraft mechanic and my Pittsburgh Bonny wrenches from Harbor Freight have saved the day many a time. 👍🏻
I am a professional Furniture repair Technician and travel to customers houses to perform repairs in their homes. I have a small arsenal of moving blankets from HF that I swear by. I also do A LOT of leather repairs onsite and have the air brush compressor from HF that has lasted for 4 years and still reliable. My guns I prefer the badger 250 model, but HF does have a quick change airbrush gun with 5 bottles that is a great backup piece. I use the Bauer heat gun with leather repair as well.
I have several Hercules power tools including the 12" miter saw (mounted on a Delta portable stand). 20v drill, driver, circ saw, heat gun, blower, vacuum, and job site blue tooth speake/radio. The only item I'm not really super pleased with so far is the radio. 😮... I'm 56 and have been using power tools professionally for around 25 years and can honestly endorse the Hercules line as a comparable product to any other color out there. What isn't comparable is price. Guessing I've saved handy to $500 minimum by choosing the herc tools over lets say the yellow and black. They run pretty much everyday of the week and haven't let me down yet.
Facilities Manager. Harbor Freight isn't my most frequent stop but they have lots of what I need at a great price.
I did my Aunt's living room and kitchen with the Avanti handheld HVLP sprayer. I love it!
I am a semi-pro handyman. I loaned out my Krause & Becker sprayer to friend and he didn’t clean it. It’s now in a landfill somewhere.
I was careful to go over the cleaning procedure and even gave him a copy of the manual. I had used it for about 5 years and it was as good as new. Just a word to the wise. I replaced it with the Avanti and I’m happy with it, as well.
Lesson of the day: Never lend tools 🤣
Hercules 12 in slide miter saw has blown any other saw I have ever had. Came out of the box dead accurate. The green and yellow saws I have had needed readjustment every other job it seemed. And it was about $200 cheaper than the old standbys. Hercules orbital sander is another fantastical tool from the "junk"store. Keep it up HB just get accessories available for the Hercules stuff!
as a professional harbor freight is stepping up their game . but even back then say like 10 yrs ago i liked going to HF it was like going to a garage sale that u might find something good even tho u did some modifications.
I work as an industrial maintenance tech, and I use Harbor Freight's Pittsburgh brand wrenches almost daily. I also have a Craftsman set that was a gift and see little if any difference.
I'm a working hands on GC. Active jobsite = missing tools and pcs. People think they are theirs or just take it. I do like the Bauer and Hercules tools. Best advice I got from a former HF manager is to always get the extended warranty. Good advice. Chicago Electric is ok but light duty and more homeowner and DIY strength and longevity. If you're like me I also recommend buying into the "inside track club" Harbor Freight is awesome and every time I go in there its packed!
I had the inside track club at one point because it gave an insane discount on their clamps. Great advice!
I told my wife’s friends to buy their husbands ITC memberships and a $25 gift card for Fathers Day. Repeat annually. It was a big win.
Harbor freight toe kick saw. Bought it for one job and it’s still going 3 years later. Nice makita bty I have the same line as my main tools. Lxt
HF nails are a great buy also. I bought the16 gauge Ryobi cordless nail gun and use the HF nails through it without any misfires.
I mentioned them in my last video!
All kinds of pros use HF. Just picked up, LED work lights, paint extension pole, storage containers and a box of cheap carabineers to hang stuff on my belt. Start out new employees there. Hercules has been popular, told a guy he could have any tape measure he wanted, he wanted to keep his Hercules. Scissors and dikes from Quin. New tool belts are good.
They should contract with rodenhouse for a line of screws, SPAX bought them a couple years ago.
Speaking of automotive: I have had a plug in 12v impact wrench since 2007 and have used it on countless times. Even loaned it to a friend who couldn't get his lawn mower blade off. Some of their stuff may not be the greatest, but, a lot is better than you might think.
I'm a professional handyman and woodworker and I buy from harbor freight all the time. I can say that their F Style clamps are absolutely perfect and a fraction of the cost of what you get at the big box stores
Comment number 238 about their F clamps. I’ve got to get them on the list!
Finish carpentry/general woodworking. I love the 9 mil nitrile gloves for stain and finish work especially because they come in the XXL size I need. I use the same pair for multiple days without a tear or hole. I also love HF for their extension cords. I have both the 25 and 50’ foot, 10 gauge cords with the three way plugs on the end. There is always at least one out at every work site.
I thought about checking out the last extension cords but figured they’d be about the same price as anywhere else
@@TheReformationWoodshop No, not at all. Usually a third to half of what they want at the big boxes. The 12 gauge are pretty reasonable too. Waste of money to buy anything lighter than 12.
I'm a hvac service guy and I have a large variety of tools that are on my service truck from harbor freight that are used on the daily basis and there warranty on hand tools is great its like how sears used to be its no question asked and you walk out with a new tool. I use there pipe wrenches hammers screwdrivers Pittsburgh pro adjustable wrenches I have the sds hammer drill just to name a few and they work just as good as any other
Instructional Facilitator at an art college and an artist. I rely on Harbor Freight for consumables and a variety of tools. Cost is a factor.
I am a Technical Rescue Specialist and there are plenty of HF tools and consumables in my shop and on my rescue truck.
Nice! Good luck to whoever tries to tell you HFi snt worth your time! 🤣
Been a mechanic for over 25 years and there are a lot of harbor freight tools I use. I think the number one is impact sockets. In the years I’ve had them, I’ve only broke one. A 21mm that I was not using on an impact driver. I was using it with a breaker bar. A lot of specialty automotive tools like a steering wheel puller and seal drivers and grease guns… all work great and have never had issues with them. I could go into a lot more but I would need a video series of my own to do that..
Professional woodworker, finish carpenter and general handyman here. I had the Hercules 12" miter saw. It was a get saw, but I unfortunately dropped it and had to get a new saw. I also have an Avanti 3 stage hvlp sprayer, which is similar to the Titan Capsray. I use it all the time.
You like the Avanti? It looks like a good machine.
@@TheReformationWoodshop yes I do
They now have a airless that looks just like my Graco pro 219 es too.
As a woodworker, metal fabricator and electrician (I do lots of restoring) I am using lots of harbor freight tools and most of them are doing a great job, some of the tools I tried didn't perform as good but the total money saved made more than up for it. That said some expensive brand name tools have disappointed me before. I enjoy your videos, keep up the good work.
I like you channel very much. The one thing I have heard you say I don’t quite agree with. Biscuits: Lamello biscuits are worth the money. However I am a cabinet maker and purchase them in boxes of 1,000 for the size 20 my most commonly used sized. However at the box stores biscuits in a clear pack are sometimes lamello may have made them. Buy those. I have some smaller sizes I purchased packaged by Royobi they are stamped Lamello. I do appreciate your channel and thoughts.
I am a professional contractor and I use some harbor freight tools. They are of high quality and good value for money.
Our local Harbor Freight, Monaca, PA has extremely friendly and helpful employees and their return policy is amazing.
Master Luthier. I used a ton of Harbor Freight tools. Angle grinders, heat guns, small chop saw, Disk and belt sanders, etc. Don't need to pay tons of money for tools.
Thanks for your input!
Hotel maintenance here. I use the O-ring and wire connector kits. Have what I need and cheaper than just ordering the proper size I need.
I also use their dead-blow plastic mallet. Does what it needs to do on the daily.
I feel like this place is a gold mine for someone in your line of work!
I am a professional handyman... I do pretty much every type of work. My main use for HF tools is to see if a tool is need or a want. If I have a job that is expanding my skill set I buy the tools from HFT. There are three possible results that I know will answer what I need to know about the new tools. 1) I use the tool and the job goes well. In which case I use the HF tool until it dies and then buy the version in my brand. 2) I use the tool and that is the last time I ever do that particular work. In which case I didn't drop a shit ton of money into tools to use once. 3) I use the tool from HFT and it dies right away. This case lets me know if I need the fave brand version or not and weather I am going to use the tool a lot or not. I do use any HF tool as if I were using it on the job... Even if it is a hobby tool (a lathe for example) and I have no problems with the ones that last. I find that HFT machine tools are either great or die fast. Then I decide if I am going to HFT for a new one or buy the brand...
The Avanti handheld sprayer is a straight up knock off of the Wagner Flex IO. They are awesome. Manual says to thin paint. I don't thin it, still works fine. Manual says not to run lacquer through it. I run lacquer through it. Still works fine.
Former Multi-Craft Maintenance Tech....I used HF tools every day, alongside Craftsman, Husky, Channel Lock and others. You do have to be choosy, but they do have some good stuff
Gunsmith, Woodworking, and Leather craft; I use their, screwdrivers, belt/disc sander, bench drill press, bench lathe. All consumables are bought at HF and other miscellaneous items like you mentioned, tarps etc. Well done with your list so far.
Thank you Greg! All that you mentioned is great!
Both Hercules and Bauer offer corded and 20v cordless heat guns. I have the corded Hercules.....has lcd digital display with 5 fan speeds and temperature adjust in 10° increments.
I'm a hobby woodworker and shop a bunch at Harbor freight but I didn't know that they carry wood biscuits. So thanks for the information
I've used tons of Harbor Freight tools over the past 20 some odd years and yes there are some one-time-use tools but there are plenty of great tools that will last and work great.
Good to hear, thanks for the input 👍🏻
I use Many brands of tools. I was ready to buy a $1,000 tile saw but a tile channel reviewed the HarborFreight Diamondback. I purchased that. I don’t do a lot of tile but needed a good quality saw. I am a carpenter/ cabinet maker. I use the HF dollies moving cabinets and all kinds of things. I own a Hercules 1/2 drill I like very much. A few Bauer tools. One is a hammer drill a STEAL for how well it works and price VS competition! Be Smart pick and choose.
I work in the oilfield. I promise you were harder on tools than any of the professions you mentioned, and you wouldn’t believe the amount of harbor freight hand tools we use. They’re fine, you just know what you’re getting. A tool at a price cheap enough that we can afford another when it breaks.
Great insight, appreciate that!
I build and repair guitars. I had the cheap heat gun, stripped the poly off one guitar body, and it was dead. Bought the Dewalt. I don't know where you are pricing them, but I bought mine for $79. I used the 3/8" adapter in my Impact wrench. It wouldn't click in, but would work. So I used it on some lag bolts, using pretty good pressure. It must've spun internally in some weird way, because now I can't get it out. Turned my impact into a drive. I hope the bit never breaks!
I price checked through Lowes but maybe there was a cheaper option I missed?
Plumber and I use consumables but also I do you use couple of there pipe wrenches… 👍🏼
Great thing about the low end drill presses is that when the quill dies, you still have a great motor. Fact is if you buy the cheep drill press on sale, you can scrap the press and keep the motor it will be cheeper than any other motor for it's horsepower. I have two motors that power my El cheepo Variable Speed HF Lathe, and my home made drum sanding table.
I just found your channel and love the “...Tools you Need from HF” series. We just came from our local HF and the wood biscuits are on clearance for $4.99.
Appreciate the comment, thanks for watching! That’s a good deal!
I have used the Avanti sprayer and painted the exterior of my house. Great tool!
master carpenter i use harbor freight a long time
I had a similar argument with a friend on a neumatic nailer he's saying his name brand would shoot 4 or 5 thousand nails without issues. Well my Harbor Freight framing nailer has been working now for five years. Not used daily, but I am approaching 3000 or more nails. It's made and saved me a lot of money.
That’s always the best part… you can pay it off in an hours work and even if it breaks it will never hurt your wallet!
I bought a framing nailer for a specific job that I was doing. Got one from Harbor Freight that was cheap. The nail gun and all the nails came from there. The whole point was to do it myself and save the cost of labor for someone else doing it. I saved the money and that nail gun still works to this day. That was 6 years ago. I don't use it all the time, but when I do use it it works. I was technically ready to throw it away after I finish the project but I felt like I should hang on to it until it officially broke. I might have it for a while
Same-I got to a job and forgot my trim nailer. A HF was much closer than my house so I picked up a Central Pneumatic trim nailer for about $17. Did the whole job with it and have used it at home dozens of times for small projects.
I’m a professional aircraft mechanic and use HF Icon tools every day! Great tools!
Welp that settles it 🤣 I’ll trust the guy who works on aircraft… not the one who builds pallet furniture 😂
Heat Gun - I've had one of thise $16 ones for about thal many years. Works fine, still runs.
Thanks for the validation!
I am an Engineer and have been a wood worker for 40 years... I love Harbor Freight... Common sense has to prevail - some cheap crap is just that. However, a Drill press from Harbor Freight is a great deal for example. In addition, I bought the oil-less 175 PSI compressor there when it was on sale. I have had it several years and it just works great. I had another oil less compressor some years ago and it wore out after 15 years or so. I am 67 - so 10 more years will get me buy. Don't buy the cheapest tools there and you will be fairly happy with what you get.
Those pliers are going to be worth a look!
Most definitely!
I'm gettin those pliers TODAY!
Harbor Freight needs to send me a check!
I have the Doyle dikes, crimpers, channel locks that are every bit as good as Klien. Also have Daytona jack which from what I have heard is made in the same china factory as the Snap on version. All at about half the cost.
Please note: it can be very dangerous using impact guns with non-impact rated sockets. They can explode. Use a drill driver for regular chrome sockets.
Good point, next time I demo a tool real quick I’ll have to remember to bring my brain 😂
Yea but you see pro mechanics doing it 🤣
@@jameschester3986 I do it every day and I've been a mechanic for 8 years now. Lol 🤣
Don't learn from me though
In the words of Austin Powers ..." I too like to live Dangerously"
I've been working on cars for over 40 years and have never had an issue with non‐impact rated sockets and impact guns...never. That goes for tools bought at HF or any anywhere else.
Can’t recommend a heat gun enough, not only for woodworking but for general house stuff as well! I use it all the time to help take off adhesive stickers honestly.
Yup! Great all around.
Look into the Hercules line. Bought jobsite 10in. table saw. For what I paid, I could buy three comp to one Dewalt. So I did buy three. Have set up with different blades for different type of cutting.
I have a client list going back over 45 yrs. It now has spanned to other generation of original clients.
I am not a "tool snob" . Currently I have Delta, Craftsman, Wen, Grizzly and Harbor Freight. The "TOOL" does not make the woodworker/woodturner/craftsman. Quite the opposite. One does not need to own the most expensive tool. It will not show you how to make something better. Having knowledge of the tool(s) one is working with(read manual) will make life a lot easier. know the strengths and limitations. For example; I have HF full size lathe, 3/4 hp motor is underpowered for large/heavy turnings. It can be upgraded. Used for lite to medium turnings it is perfect. So if not broken do not fix it. For heavier pieces I have ordered a American Beauty by robust tools for larger/heavier pieces and will continue to use the HF lathe. As to my experience, long term addict of woodworking/woodturning. I feel no one ever masters their craft until they are gone and remembered for their craft.
Not sure if this counts as a tradesman, however, I've been working with and on computers for over 40 years (programmer, system admin, operations, computer room, hardware repair, etc.) and I have used HF tools for over 20 of them. Been using their hand tools, mainly the Pittsburgh line. In over 20 years I've only had 2 of them I had to return and had no trouble getting them replaced. Used some of their drill drivers with no issues for years. Are they the best, probably not, however, they work and if it has a lifetime warranty, they back it up and replace it.
I’m not sure it does either, but that doesn’t disqualify your experiences with the tools! Thanks for that outside perspective!
Hardwood flooring tech. My nippers, combo square, speed square, and 18 gauge Brad nails all come from HF. Lots more for my personal collection too.
Good to hear! What brand are the nippers? And what length? I was in today and they have a rather large pair and I’d like to see if they have a smaller option. Maybe even an Icon option.
@@TheReformationWoodshop i don't remember the brand but they have the orange handles, slightly larger than the traditional husky nippers at home Depot. There's a lot of nail removal in my line of work so the extra length on the handles makes for good leverage.
I started using their "F" style bar clamps, hand screw clamps and Quick Release Bar Clamps for various projects such as cutting boards, patio furniture etc. I also use their saw horses and furniture dollies. Their entry level hammer drill is a beast for drilling old concrete and I also like their circular saw blades.
Lots of folks have mentioned their f clamps. Gonna check em out.
I don't think you can get hand screw clamps at HF's price anywhere else. Even better on sale!
Good items to have in the shop. I bought the Warrior heat gun last Fall when it was on sale for $9.99 and it works as intended. Project Farm (on YT) did a video on pliers and the Knipex did very well, but the Icon wasn't out at that time. On the hex-bit socket adapters, I'd pay the extra $1.50 and get the Hercules since impact drivers can be a bit hard on them.
Sales at HF are something I haven’t even talked about really! A lot of these tools can be found for cheaper depending on the day!
The warrior branded socket adapters are not impact rated so spend the extra couple bucks on the Bauer or Hercules ones.
I have been using HF for 10 years or more and I have learned that not every product that is sold there deserves your attention. However if you do buy any of their power tools don't hesitate to take advantage of the extended "free in store replacement plans" I have about 25 HF items that I rotate every 2 years on. Drills, saws, sanders, and electronics. I actually have a HF return calendar on the wall in my shop with all the "return by date for a free replacement with "No questions asked". Oh and when you get that free replacement the warranty usually transfers to the replacement item so you are in effect getting a lifetime warranty. The few that it was not automatically transferred on they let me buy another for ridiculously low price of the original warranty (usually between $10 and $30 for those Bauer $80 and $100 cordless drills or saws or whatever. So I don't have to buy another one for ever at this point. It's a no brainer and the first few times I turned them down and then went back once with a defective drill press and they were really sorry but the manufacturers warranty has expired and reminded me that the 2 year warranty is only $30 for that $200 item. I learned pretty early on that if you are going to buy from them and actually use the tool get the warranty so you don't have to buy a new one. Even if there is nothing wrong with it I still take it in and at the least get that warranty extended. BAM! HF is also as stated in most of these vids the only place to go for some of these consumables. Why pay more to save you money? You have to keep buying them so pay less and you can afford to buy more sooner.
I appreciate these videos. One quibble, that plier wrench is more a copy of the Knipex 8603250, you're holding the Icon against the better counterpart with better grips and different jaws. But that less expensive Knipex is still $20-$30 more depending on where you buy them, compared to the price you showed.
Hey Jeff, thanks for the input! I’ll make sure to grab the right ones.
Another use for the heat gun - if you're water popping wood during your sanding process, dry it with the heat gun and you don't have to wait for it to dry naturally. Saves me a ton of time.
Smart move 👍🏻
I look forward to your comparison of the Knipex to the Icon wrench
I have a lot of Harbor Freight tools. Quality is hit or miss on the power tools. Reciprocating saw cut twice then no longer Reciprocated. Had a hammer drill, did one job and put it away. pulled it out a few years later, did not work. My bench drill press has had no problems except the surface rust on the table. Hand tools and consumables are great value for the money.
My oldest on has been in the HVAC business since high school. He is constantly loosing his tools and finding other tools under houses and in the attics. Gets his hand tools from Harbor Freight so it does not hurt as bad when they are lost.
They’re definitely the type of tool that if you lose them it doesn’t hurt the wallet so much 💵
Good info, I have been considering the socket extensions. Good to know that they hold up.
Over the years I have found that their precision tools like routers either disintegrate when you turn them on or they work great and give great value for the money. With the newer tool lines they’ve upped their game and most tools are at least decent. Gotta be careful buying some stuff though as they will slip in some things at higher prices than the big box stores.
That heat gun will light a charcoal fire and have it ready to cook in 10 minutes without any lighter, lighter fluid or anything else. Just concentrate on a coal until it gets going, then move it around. It's simple and doesn't make your food taste like lighter fluid. I use that same $15 version for my grill and can't imagine going back to coal with fluid in it or using a lighter or fanning flames. The heat gun does it all.
Another good tool if you have a chainsaw, the chain grinding wheel setup they have for $30 is a much better deal than the competitor. Grind the chain then hand sharpen to touch it up after every use, then grind it after hand sharpening a few times to keep the angles correct.
Yes! I’ve actually used it before and it’s awesome!
I have one of those as well. I sat down one day while we were clearing some acreage around our house and sharpened six chains in about 25 minutes. It's so easy to just move from one notch to the next then from one chain to the next. We were able to work all day without having to stop to sharpen chains
@@dominicchappell1399 super useful when you have storm damage that needs to be cleaned up quickly. Lost 2 trees last night, one top blew out one was some very hard to spot root rot.
I like their 18" x 22" dollies. I have a small shop and I put my tools (planer, belt sander, miter saw, etc.) on them so they can easily slide in and out from under the workbench. Easy to access when needed and easy to get out of the way when not.
Enjoyed your videos and thanks for the tips. I will have to take a closer look at some of their other products.
Appreciate the input! I’ve got my planer on one as well, I’ll have to include that in a coming video.
That’s a good idea!
people try to tell me HF doesn't last as long as a DeWalt or Milwaukee. If you spend a few dollars more and get the 2 year replacement plan you can keep getting a brand new tool every 2 years (or 1) for the price of the warranty. It will definitely outlast the competition that way!
For sure 🙌🏼🙌🏼
I love my Hercules tools! Drill, driver, and table saw. Also have the electric avanti sprayer and it works well
Man you’re the HF mascot at this point!
@@TheReformationWoodshop haha cheaper than lowes, I don’t have a Home Depot and they’ve never let me down yet (Hercules anyway) I have some of the cheaper stuff like a Chicago electric miter saw and I can’t seem to get it tuned just right but still good enough for me. When they start letting me down I’ll switch haha
The socket adapters were 99 cents around a year ago
I'm kinda new to woodworking. Recently I found that I am short on clamps and especially larger clamps. HF has them for half the price if not more than some of the big names. Are the clamps at HF reliable and worth buying?
Short answer… some are and some aren’t. You’ll want to avoid anything aluminum and gravitate towards steel 🙌🏼
I bought some quick release, 6" C clamps from HF. The ratcheting system failed. However, There are alot of other tools and equipment I've had great use of.
I like their F-style clamps. Dirt cheap and do medium strength work well. Don't expect perfection from them...use them for what they are designed for and within design parameters, and they do well. I own 24 of the 6"er's, 12 of the 12"er's, and 6ea of the 18",24",36".
Also bought a 6x48" belt sander about 30yrs ago. Used it to sand 4" gift boxes that I made in 500 box lots...about 15 times a year for 6 years. Had to replace the bearings in the driven spindle twice, and the idle spindle once. Would have likely had to do that on any other sander brand. Still have it...still runs strong.
Drill presses. Wow. I worked in a frame shop where we bored literally thousands of #6 countersink holes weekly. Had one 8" press set up just to do that, one press to do other work, and a spare under the bench. The countersink press ran twenty hours a week, 52 weeks a year. Burnt up two of those every year...but...that's pro grade work out of a (at the time) $40 drill press. I wasn't mad about it...neither was the boss.
By the way...I have 35+ yrs of woodworking experience. I like HFT, but you have to decide what you're going to do with a tool, how frequently you're going to use it, and if you're going to use it...or abuse it. Most HFT stuff won't take the kind of abuse the daily pros give tools...everybody else can make HFT work. My story...and I'm stickin' to it!
I hang cabinets and there are dozens of useful tools at Harbor Freight.
Nice vid, and it’s always fun to see tools from someone else’s point of view. The one thing I differ with you on is the opinion that one biscuit is equal to the next. I have used Porter-Cable, Ryobi, Harbor Freight, Excel Dowel, a couple generics and genuine Lamello biscuites, and there’s a huge difference that actually can make a difference. They are all designed to fit into a 4 mm slot, but from there the engendering matters. Search for a video from Lamello titled “How they’re made: Colonial Saw Lamello Original Biscuits”. Lamello is the originator of plate joinery and they put a lot of thought and effort into their biscuits. All that said, on edge to edge joints, like a table top, it really doesn’t matter because that joint, made with parts that are properly machined and with modern glues, really doesn’t even need a connector. Scott
Appreciate your input, I’ll check into it!
@@TheReformationWoodshop Could make for an interesting follow-up video.
I'm kinda late to the comments on this, but I was going to say basically the same thing, there is absolutely a difference between biscuits. I've had the best luck with the Lamello & Frued biscuits (use to use them by the thousands & buy them several cases at a time) The WORST I ever used were Porter Cable biscuits! Most would be really "flaky" and if you didn't weed them out while assembling you would ALWAYS end up with flakes braking off and getting between the parts you were joining together causing you to have to take everything apart and start over? I don't use biscuits anywhere near as often as I use to these days (no longer making that product that required so many) but I still have several boxes of the Porter Cable biscuits left over to still frustrate me when I do need to use biscuits. I keep swearing I'm going to just throw them away, but haven't done it yet?
Love HF tools
I'm very iffy on the paint sprayer from harbor frieght. I know it's cheap but should I spend a bit more for a cleaner look?
I know a lot of people who’ve relied on the HF sprayer with no issues. My wife and I now use the Graco Magnum X7 for our remodels and we love that.
you got a sub. Thanks for your videos!
Appreciate it Kent!