I'm a Harbor Freight Homer and not only do I agree with these "must have" tools but I have all of them. I can also recommend probably 15-20 more that should be on this list. Harbor Freight tools aren't for everyone, but for the "weekend warrior", they're perfect. The quality of HF tools has vastly improved over the last 8-10 years.
@@colinl6703 Here's a link to get you started, but there are many more tools for the DIYer that I could recommend. ruclips.net/video/l0J36RglZRU/видео.html
I have the 1/2", 3/8", and 1/4" click-type torque wrenches from HF, and they've saved me from warped brakes, warped heads, and stripped bolts for years now. Another tool they have which I like, although for more personal reasons, are the multi-colored socket sets. They're strong and cheap, but I have many memories of my daughter helping me in the shop starting age 2, because with those sockets I could tell her to bring me the blue one, or the pink one, or the black one, and she could do it. It wasn't long before she started just reading the numbers off the sockets, and knew which one was what color.
By the way, if you follow the tools tested channel, you’ll see that the Pittsburgh torque wrench is the most accurate budget torque wrench on the market.
@MysteriousOklahomaDid you make sure that yours goes through the entire range of settings before you used it? I’ve heard that some don’t go all the way to 150 foot pounds out of the box, and you should return it if it doesn’t. I also know you’re supposed to do a warmup before using them for the first time, and if they’ve been stored inactive for awhile. I did a really thorough warmup on mine before using it for the first time, and it worked flawlessly for me. Maybe you should take yours back under warranty.
@@jamescrawford8121 you're right, I bought one back when they sold them for $9.99 and it was junk, I tried ever setting on the dial and it would never "click" I was afraid of breaking or stripping fasteners. I took it back, but that's not to say they haven't improved, HF has improved quality on quite a few products even tho they're still chinesium.
One thing to add, for returns they require a receipt so enroll in having them email you a receipt and make a folder for them. The paper receipts won’t stay legible even if you do keep it.
If you are an inside track member your purchases are kept in their system, I just took back a wrench purchased 8 years ago, when to closest store was 2 hours away, the new local store looked it up, gave my new wrench without hassle. I just had to wait about 15 minutes for the search, and they opened up a set off the shelf to replace mine.
The mini pick and hook set is a game changer. You literally don't know how hard life is without it until you've had them lol. Best random harbor freight purchase ever
While yes $1.99 is a good price for those four picks and they are useful, I would recommend getting a larger more complete set (won't be as cheap per tool but much more useful.) Their true best use for those 4 is ditching the warranty by breaking out the torch/welder & repurposing them as custom tools for specific jobs.
I have all of your recommended tools. I would add the plastic interior tool set, a telescoping magnet, a magnetic parts bowl, and a magnetic shop light.
Yes to all of your suggestions! Might also add a telescoping mirror (sometimes these are in a set with a magnetic pickup tool). I have everything but the extractor socket set (note to self: buy these) and the deep impact socket set; also, what I have isn't neccesarily the HF version. With what little I do myself, I don't have the need for the deep impact sockets; however, I have an impact extension that I use for recessed or obstructed areas.
The hand tools at HF have significantly improved over the years. I used to regularly snap sockets from them. I always keep a set of Pittsburgh wrenches and sockets around, because if I need a custom modified tool I don't feel bad taking a grinder or welder to them.
I'm still beating away on a 6" mechanics vise I bought from the very first HFT store I saw in Escondido CA back in the late Seventies. All the wrenches and sockets I got from back then are still intact, too. Their steel has always been good.
@@paulnicholson1906 Nope, you're correct. It's not the same as "name" branded (the big 3, Mac, Matco, snap on) when it comes to "speciality" items. Swivel sockets, it's gotta be from the big 3, STUPID expensive, but works. But when it comes to BASIC standard wrenches Or sockets, Harbor freight stuff is GREAT! A basic 1/2" socket set (impact) from HF is like $70, from the big 3, $500 minimum. I've been a mechanic for 32 years now (because I'm too stupid to stop this abuse) and there are things you need to spend your money on "the good shit", but sockets ain't one of them. Wrenches don't generally break, nor do impact sockets. HF stuff, for the price, is a BARGAIN!
I picked up the 10mm essential socket set. A kit of several variations of the infamous missing 10mm. Look it up. One of those job saver things to have on hand
I used to never buy anything from HF now it's my go to store I have all of those tools. I recently just found out how good their corded and cordless tools are and for the value you can't beat it anywhere
1/2" breaker bar Wobble extension set Curved jaw locking pliers Mini pick/hook set C-clamp Pry bar set 1/2" impact deep socket set 3/8" bolt extractor socket set 1/2" click type torque wrench
Agree on many you have shown. The major thing with HFT now is that their prices have reached the level of many non HFT items from other stores. Not bad but indicates that HFT is another equal store now. Not the cheap one that it used to be.
They have the Icon line and others that are designed to compete with the tool truck and high end brand names. BUT, HF also still has the Pittsburgh and Chicago Electric lines that much less expensive and still plenty good enough quality to get the job done.
I have most of these. The breaker bar is my favorite (right now). I use it on almost every job, I use it with the impact sockets because I also have an impact wrench. Those small picks are also extremely handy too. Something I would add is the punch and chisel set & hammer. Also some regular wrenches, and ratchets too.
@@Bigdaddyslasher I saw the 1/2” compared with Snap On and other expensive brands, and it held up really well. You must’ve used it really hard to bend it.
@@jacobnelson2480 I guess everyone has a different experience, depending on the situation, but one channel showed the 1/2” Pittsburgh to be very durable. It’s hard to beat Proto, though.
I replaced the alternator & serpentine belt on my Camry yesterday & today. I used the shallow 19 mm impact socket on the 24" breaker bar. I bought the pry-bar set (just in case, but were unused), and have had the 1/4", 3/8" & 12" torque wrenches for years. I also have the HF 3-ton jack stands, which I used today as well. Other tools listed in this video that are in my box are the "vise-grips" & wobble-extension bars. HF is only about a mile away, so very convenient for major projects (like changing out an alternator & serpentine belt). Too many other HF tools in my garage to mention here. I finally joined the Inside Track Club yesterday. Should have done that every year, years ago! The ITC discounts going on this weekend alone nearly paid for the $30 subscription.
The Pittsburgh ½" drive impact deep socket set in Metric and SAE is a no brainer. Quite frankly, especially for the DIY Mechanics, that's the only ½" drive sockets to carry. If you're needing a ½" drive socket for a bolt, most likely you'll be able to use impact wrench anyway. Also, you can use the impact sockets on a hand ½" drive ratchet if you need too. The impact sockets will wear out faster than chrome ones, but with lifetime warranty, just get the worn out ones replaced for free. Plus, impact sockets are usually cheaper to buy than chrome ones. Save money when you can.
I agree with everything but the C-clamps. I have purchased them and after having so many of them twist I started buying used high quality ones instead. They aren't bad if you don't need a lot of clamping force but for what I'm working on they are just too weak. I'm usually working on tractors, forklifts, backhoes, dozers, so they might be just fine for folks needing lighter duty clamps.
Spot on list - I own damn near every tool you mentioned. An honorable mention that I'd add would be the Trim and molding tool set p/n 64126 for $8.99 I've used it a lot recently for taking off inner door panels and various dash trim pieces without marring up surface (using a screwdriver).
Yup that trim set is great stuff. Much better than just going after everything with a flathead lol. I don't know why anyone would ever spend more than 9 smackers for another brand. They are just molding pieces of plastic for goodness sake.
I recently bought a 36 inch steel pipe wrench from harbor freight, it's a Pittsburg brand because I needed one to break down a hydraulic cylinder end gland on my backhoe. This thing cost me $29.00 and it worked perfect. The gland measured out to be the same as a 4 inch pipe and I had already broke an aluminum 36 inch pipe wrench. Great value on this tool.
I agree about the wobble extension set. Removing Glaresheild brackets to R&R a #1 Window on 737 sure came in handy. Now that I am Retired good for my Harley too.
Great video! On a side note for you and your DIY audience, the US Military teaches to only torque to one click sounding, they have proven that doing multiple clicks actually changes the torque value in many cases!
Good video, instead of knocking HF, you mention that what you feel was a good value. It should be noted that there's a limit to what any tool can handle, work within its limitations and you'll most likely be satisfied.
Must have tools. Daytona 3 ton low profile jack and Daytona 6 ton jack stands. ICON 3/8 and 1/2 drive flex head torque wrenches. ICON reversible ratchet wrenches. Braun folding mag light. Pittsburgh tool creeper.
I have most of those tools as well, but would also recommend the titanium nitride coated 45 piece alloy steel tap & die sets in SAE and metric. I’ve used these sets to cut threads for automotive and ag equipment and they are no joke for the DIYer. $89.99 w/o a coupon, I got both my sets about 6 months ago with a 20% off coupon so they were a steal. I wouldn’t use them to cut parts for the space shuttle, but for auto or agricultural use they rock! 👍
I almost bought the 60pc or 80pc metric tap and die set but the price it's the gold anodized looking ones for $45 i got a grip on tools 110pc sae and metric tap and die set i believe off eBay
Best things I bought from HF are the floor jacks, small 3" cut off tool, Pitts pro impact deep sockets. Worst things pry bars bend, socket adapter twist off, regular chrome sockets round out, drills not so good.
My go to list that stays in my box. 10years worth of abuse in a professional environment and never broken ( except the ratchets but they lifetime warranty so the get exchanged for free) #1 - Long Handle 3/8 Pit Pro Ratchet flex head ( Had it for 10years now 30$) #2 - 1/4 Pit Pro flex head ratchet #3 - 1/2 Pit Pro Impact Sockets Deep #4 - 1/2 Pit Pro Impact Sockets Shallow #5 - Craftsman 540pc socket set ( on sale for 699$ instead of 1300$) #6 - US general Roll cart ( just as good as snap on and matco had mine for 8years now ZERO issues at the shop and holds everything I need to swap any engine and transmission) #7 - Pry bar set you mentioned #8 - Pick set you mentioned #9 - HF Bench Grinder mid size with one abrasive wheel and one steel wire wheel #10 - HF 20ton shop press #11 - HF Pit Pro/Daytona series Jacks/6ton Jack stands ( had my Pit Pro grey 3ton jacks for 10years now and never ever had an issue after beating the hell out of them and just picked up the Daytona series for home after using two of them at the shop for over a year now on everything you can imagine )
10 years ago I broke two Craftsmen breaker bars. The people at Sears were real a-holes about exchanging them I don't understand what the problem was. I bought a harbor freight and tool breaker bar. 8 years ago and have been using it since without a single breakage.
I do industrial maintenance and have stuff from almost every brand including plenty of HF. Their 1/2 in breaker bar with the bigger style head hasn't let me down ( I _have_ broken the 3/8 ones though). I don't like the pry-bars, too much flex and the handles break because they're not full tang. The "vice-grip" set I bought also had some really bad jaw defects. Picks are great for a buck. Impact sockets are also great. Mini diamond files are surprisingly adequate. Icon swivel head ratchet gets a lot of use and keeps going. The little Chief die grinder is the best I've ever had. The XT stubby impacts are awesome lil monsters. I've got a few of their smallest cheap voyager bags, good enough for locker duty stuff. All that said, my favorite value from HF are the US General boxes, can't come close to matching them for the price.
Just bought the ball joint separator for $19 because my pickle fork wasn't cutting it. Best $19 I've spent in years. Harbor Freight saved the day once again
That Breaker Bar is cheap but every time I use it to me the bar flexes/bends way to much to the point I'm not comfortable with it but it works & is cheap. I just wish it was more rigid I'm sure it was engineered that way to keep from breaking the head off. Due to it looks like one is going to break the handle off they may stop & get something else. And wow when it's near the breaking point the bar has a real rubber band effect when the nut or bolt gives up. Sometimes its best to use my 3/4 drive bar or ratchet & a pipe, make sure to buy their lifetime 3/4 to 1/2 adapter it comes in a set. Best wishes to you keep the skin on your knuckles & work safe.
The breaker bar, pry bars, and torque wrenches are really good quality. I wrapped the hadles of the pry & breaker bars with silicon tape for extra grip.
Their ratchets with a rotating head are a real game changer for me. I'm talking about the ones with a comfort handle which attaches on either side of the ratcheting mechanism. Break or tighten the fastener with the handle to the side and thread or unthread with the handle perpendicular even if you can't make a full rotation.
Great video! One note for you, we were taught in the US Military to only click ONCE when using a torque wrench, clicking more than once actually changes the torque value you are applying, like near the end when you clicked each wheel lug nut twice.
I can see why Harbor Freight can offer a Lifetime Warranty on these tool as they do not involve a lot of moving parts that could fail. These are pretty much solid materials. I have purchased many of their tools over many years and they can be ideal for someone that occasionally needs some tools, but not for daily use as those with power or more moving parts can fail. But they are cheap in the meantime.
And, when the people manufacturing the items can be paid with a bowl of rice, a half cup of pigeon soup, and a cigarette for a days work, you can afford to replace each item a dozen times over and still make a huge profit!
My top items that I’ve bought in the few months was the 4k lbs Daytona jack, the Predator auger, Cen-Tech battery charger/jump starter and the high impact socket set. Been happy with all of these purchases and I did get the extended warranties due to the fact that I got them all on sale so it only made sense to get 3 years added and still be under or at the original price. They do carry some good stuff as like the dent remover that I bought years ago and still use and still works great. Plenty of tools because I’m most likely to lose them than I am to break them.
Good job! Great reviews & presentation. I concur and have most every recommended items. I call them ‘disposable tools’, however, I’m not a full time mechanic and they work quite well for my needs.
The best tool I got was a set of 115 cobalt drills. They work great cutting through most tough steels or any other lighter metals. Even though its not lifetime guaranteed, they are truly workhorses.
Have to say I have been very happy with the 301 piece tool kit, bought mine for 159 bucks which is about 50 cents a piece. It does include the 10 mm and 15 mm that some kits are missing.
My teenage son bought that set a few months ago and I have to say I’m envious. I have all the same tools but they were assembled piecemeal from various brands over the years (and therefore cost far more). Mine are always impossible to find I need them because they’re scattered around in different bags or boxes. Edit: My only complaint with his set is for some strange reason it didn’t come with 1/4” extensions, so I got him some for Christmas :)
Add the deadblow hammers, remove the prybars because they flex, get the US made hyper tough prybars from Walmart (made by wilde). Also I prefer the Bremen locking pliers over Pittsburgh in quality, worth the price difference.
I think I have one of the prybars from HF, yep, those things are terrible, they must be spring steel because they bend so bad when you try to use them. I use Irwin locking pliers, but Bremen are good too.
I have welded in shipyards with high dollar equipment f0r 35 years and being retired now, I find their welding machines do everything I need around the farm. Their 9000 watt Predator generator is fabulous and runs their MIG (GMAW) AND (FCAW) wire feeders and ) TIG (GTAW) machines beautifully.
Have most of them. The breaker bar I have, is from before they put the plastic on the handle. It's had a 6' pipe on it, with my 230# on the end many times, haven't broken it yet 👍
I fully avoid tool trucks unless I need a specific "special tool".. (or a snap on Phillips screw driver..) having said that.. literally the last Matco catalog had a 4 piece pick set for $145.50!!! I guess you DO get the choice of green or orange... 😖 There is no emergency that warrants spending $143 dollars more for the same thing..
I seem to use rubber mallets a lot. HF mallets are cheap enough that I can stash them all over the place. I like their 1 inch belt sander. I've used mine a lot and it's held up well. The sanding belts aren't too bad. I bought their grayish medium weight contractor garden hose. I wouldn't recommend it. Same with their wet stones and drill bits. My HF heat gun and oscillating tool have held up well. We used the oscillating tool to cut sheet rock out of a house that flooded in Hurricane Harvey. It did great! Their small pump sprayers seem pretty good as well. The one I have holds about 1/2 to 1 gallon. I forget. But it's a handy size for a home garden. I'm waiting to catch them on same to pick up a couple of more. Then I can gave dedicated ones for hazardous vs non hazardous stuff. I agree, the C clamps are good. I also like the wooden ones. The ones that you squeeze several times to ratchet tight are hit or miss. Some back off a tad making impossible to get them really tight. My neighbor has their bead blaster. I've used it and love it. If you only need a certain tool a couple of times a year the cost/quality is often worth it. I use crow bars pretty often. They make one that's flat and it's about 15-20 inches long. I love it, and a small block of wood, for pulling nails. I'm wondering, if you have an assortment of crow bars, why you might you need a pry bar? Or do you? They just look like metro crow bars to me, with only one useful end.m
I have to agree with your choices, I own almost all of them. Didn't realize they have a lifetime warranty, that's impressive. So far I haven't noticed any problems. As an example, I've used my torque wrench many, many times over the 20+ years I've owned it, I keep it in it's plastic case when not in use and it's never given me a lick of trouble. I've owned most of my harbor freight hand tools for at least that long and they are doing just fine. Harbor freight sales some inferior stuff too but I steer clear of that kind of stuff.
I have the deep impact sockets, been beating the hell out of them for over 17yrs as a professional ag equipment tech, only broke 1 socket, got it exchanged with no questions! I have 2 broken Matco torque wrenches that cost about $900-1000 that are broke and they can't fix them, HF has the Icon torque wrenches for less than half the price with Lifetime warranty! Its not to difficult to figure out where I'm going to buy them
YES to the mini pick and hook set! I bought mine on a whim while standing in line and have used them for a hundred different things, all of which would've been a PITA without them.
I agree with all 9 tools, and you also cannot beat the US General tool chests/roller cabinets. There is no better value than the US General line for the price point. Another one I like from HF is their 1/2" drive Flex-Head Long Handle ratchet. I have beat the hell out of this thing, and it just keeps kicking ass. Great video, Daninator!!
I checked them out last week, prepared to hate them for being flimsy or thin gauge steel or whatever. I was genuinely shocked how nice they are. They seem really solid, and have really nice drawer action, with locking drawers. I’m adding some of these to my garage in the next month or two.
My US General 44" top/bottom combo unit is 17+ years old, sits out on an open air carport and works great, just a bit dirty, and in need of an upgrade to a larger combo unit as I've managed to gather up enough tools over the years to outgrow it LOL. Although the US General stuff has gone up in price, its still a great deal. I probably will end up going with the 56" combo at some point, and hopefully by then they have end lockers that'll attach to them, as the ones they sell now only work on the 44" models...and don't fit the old style 44" ones unfortunately, otherwise I'd just buy a couple of them and add to mine and call it good LOL.
Just ordered a yellow sidebox to hang on my yellow DeWalt big box that I've had for several years... the fit and finish are on par with each other, the DeWalt is equiv to todays Craftsman (seeing as they are the same company) for a long time they were the only pro-sumer priced box with rolled edges on their drawers - now the Generals are doing that trick, too.
I just picked up a Quinn 1/2” torque wrench and Pittsburgh metric impact socket set, and was very pleased with the quality of both. I considered the Pittsburgh wrench, but the Quinn seemed better built and I liked the longer handle for extra leverage.
buy most all my tools there and have only had ONE in 20 yrs that ever failed in a short time..all others still working fine..I have cement mixer..wrenches..grinders..torque wrenches..love the tools..prices..very good..
My favorites is the locking impact extensions and sludge mallets. All the impact stuff is great stuff. I do have a soft spot for good old craftsman also Husky impact sockets. Other than that. I mostly have Apex and cornwell.
The pass through socket set for $25 has a lifetime warranty and has become my go to set. It has 72 teeth for those tight spaces and I think I paid about $20 near Christmas.
I've not ever taken a tool back to HF. I don't know about their 'lifetime warranty ' tools if you need the receipt? For a long time, Craftsman just had you bring the tool back....later on only with a receipt. Receipts are tough to find after five yrs for a lot of us. I keep them in a folder with all my tax returns, but I often don't remember what yr I bought the tool. Historically, companies don't like to replace tools with warranties without receipts because people can buy them used, or out of junk boxes in pawn shops, etc. I find that the slightly extra money over Pittsburgh to buy the ICON line tools is generally worth it.
@@Chris-bh3cm Twice I've been duped into the 'Fast Track Club'....never has it paid for itself. Every time I go in I ask if there is a discount on an item for the 'Fast Track Club' and it's always, "Sorry, not today." The thing is, I don't want HF telling me what to buy to get a discount. I would rather the items I WANT be at a discount when I'm in the store.
All these tools are available from Tecton at or near HFs price point lifetime warranty and no dragging the tool back to HF, just sent Tecton a picture of the broken tool, they send you a new one. Tecton is based in Michigan and their tools are made in USA and Taiwan.
I have s store 15 minutes away , have never been in it once . I’ll ge going this weekend , just bought a brand new tool box set up and need a few things . It will be worth the couple hundred bucks to get some odds and ends . Thank you !
I have the Pittsburg pass thru ratchet set. It broke a few years after use. Took it back and got a new one. No questions asked. Pittsburg is not great but for the every now and then DIYer it’s cost over quality with a lifetime warranty. I figure the cost of the tool for a single job and if it lasts longer, great.
I have the Pittsburgh click type torque wrench but won't use it because the calibration is WAY off. You reminded me that it's a lifetime warranty so I think I'll take it back and exchange it.
Several years ago I bought a tire pressure gauge, the big one used for trucks. It's reading is about TEN POUNDS off when checked with a certified gauge. Too bad they don't stock that one any more......... bummer ! 😭
3 I have all the tools you showed, and every single wrench and combination wrench set they carry. I have their motorcycle lift and the ratcheting straps to hold the bike steady too. Their tools used to really suck, but it seems their quality has really come up over the past few years. Thanks. Good video.
I would add the 301 piece Pittsburgh tool kit. It's $219.99 currently but you can wait for a sale at $169.99. It has virtually everything you will need for whatever you are doing other than the combination wrench selection is limited. I'm on my 5th set due to theft. But they are amazing and I've never broken anything in the kit. Even with an impact.
That set is great, get's you very well set on tools with one purchase. Nothing in the set has broken on me yet and I've abused some of the sockets on my impact quite a bit.
Definitely a nice list. Only tool I disagree with is their pry bars, at least some of them. The flex that they have in them can be problematic when putting a ton of force on them. I work in industrial maintenance and this is one of a very few HF tools I have replaced for my safety. I replaced them with a set of Mayhew’s and the difference is very noticeable. The flex in the shaft is gone and I can strike them with a hammer which is useful. Just my two cents on it, but generally speaking HF’s hand tools have always been a good value and work just fine for most jobs.
Yes repent Brandon for speaking ill of the pry bar!! lol. I like them but know what you mean. I have a better pry bar for times I don’t want to chance breaking them or busting my knuckles. They are good for smaller tasks though. I saw that craftsman sells the same exact set as HF.
@@MrAsmith1583 Buy the Hypertough ones from Walmart...they are rebranded Wilde pry bars. A little more than HF, but premium quality, night and day difference between them. I just wish the name wasn't so damn cheesy, lol.
The C-clamps are horrible, they twist as soon as you apply much torque on them. I have a couple of old rusted clamps I bought at a yard sale that are far better, The HF ones are back up only
Not sure if it has the lifetime warranty, but I'd DEFINITELY add the 3 ton low profile jack to your list. Makes lifting your vehicle a breeze with its double piston design and for that great value you mention. I've had mine for ~10 years or so and it never fails. I recently purchased a cherry picker through HF, I'm looking forward to testing it out soon. Just my $0.02. :)
I have almost all of these with the exception of the pry bars and impact sockets. I have a 4pc Matco set from 6" to 36" and impact sockets are Craftsman that I got like 14 years ago as an X-Mas gift. Never had a single issue with the other 7 products from this video and I've had them for 8-12 years and use them all the time. Screwdrivers are good too, forget tool truck prices on a 4 or 8 piece set.
Good choices. I probably would have included a pair of long reach bent nose pliers, and maybe the padded handled 1/4” and 3/8” 90t ratchets which I love. The torque wrench has always been a question mark for me. If it’s important enough to be torqued specifically, then it’s important enough to invest in a good torque wrench IMHO.
You can calibrate it to make sure it works right. Using a 25 pound weight and a bolt. I used the clicker on head bolts after checking and the head is still holding.
@@anthonyclayton3219 Honestly I've been pleased with my Pittsburgh and Quinn torque wrenches as far as accuracy but I'm not sure I would go so far as to use them for head bolts, breaking one of those is a scary thought. If I ever have to do head work I'm going to find someone with some higher end wrenches to borrow. Hoping I don't have to touch the heads on my 98 4runner for a very very long time though (280k and runs like a top, I suspect one of the P/Os already did head work).
About that torque wrench...........I was rebuilding my 4L60e , installing my newly rebuilt valve body, ( purchased torque wrench just for this ) I sheared 2 consecutive bolts. I assumed I had misread something. Long story short , as I admitted to myself as I bought my new Snap-on torque, ya get wat ya pay for !!! Ask yourself before you buy , is it worth doing right ?? If so, it may cost more initially but some things are well worth it. Actual customer here.
The operative word here is "diy"; was a professional tech for 22yrs, ended in 2000 before Harbor Freight hit it's stride. Bought a lot of their tools since as many of mine were 40+ years old - ratchets, breaker bars, cordless drills, cordless impact driver, radiator pressure tester kit, A/C gages, battery jump pack, battery charger,floor jack, drill bits, portable oxy/acetylene torch set. Only things I've replaced under warranty was a 1/4"dr ratchet and a Chicago Electric flux wire welder.
Love those wobble extensions. My two favorite things from them aren't quite on their more budget side though, The Hercules Ultratorque impact and the Badlands Offroad Jack. The impact is to be fair not much cheaper than the likes of Milwuakee but every bit as good (I think a youtube channel showed it had more torque on breaking fasteners than the Milwuakee). The offroad jack is better than the only other offering on the market (it has a 45* handle lock that is stupidly handy) and it's half the price of that other option. Not the hugest fan of the 1/2" Pittsburgh torque wrench. I mean it's not terrible and it's accurate but it's pretty rough to adjust and it wasn't even clear to me where I was as when it was on 0 it would be almost between one line and the next so it was hard to tell if I was at 30 or 40, etc. I did some testing though against my Quinn and figured it out. I REALLY like the 1/2" Quinn one I have though and it goes from 50-250lbs. I only use the Pittsburgh now for when I need less than 50lbs of torque on a fastener.
I have all but the bolt extractors and would agree with one exception. I have swapped out the torque wrench twice before I finally bought a Husky. A torque wrence that doesn't click at the right time is just a wrachet. I was over tightening all my bolts and breaking some. The way it fails is the problem because it fails to provide the proper torque. It will still click just not at the right time. I always loosen when not using them and it still failed twice. I am not sure if it ever worked properly.
I have used the 1/2" Deep Well sockets SAE, and Metric, and 3/8" along with the Pittsburg wrench set especially the 1 1/4, 1 1/8. What did I use them for working on equipment on the railroad. We're talking Big Boy Bolts and nuts. Never broke one. I'd say thats a pretty good tool. Used the breaker bar also. Good Stuff.
Good things to get from HF are towing accessories like hitches. Those have to be DOT approved so whatever you get there is not only cheaper than most other places they have been vetted by the DOT.
@@otebryan I got the email about that recall and checked my SKUs -- no problem. Been using HF stands for years. I always double up and overkill the weight rating but I would do that with any stand simply because I want the extra height of a larger stand
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I would add the orange deadblow hammers.
Brake tools too.
I'm a Harbor Freight Homer and not only do I agree with these "must have" tools but I have all of them. I can also recommend probably 15-20 more that should be on this list. Harbor Freight tools aren't for everyone, but for the "weekend warrior", they're perfect. The quality of HF tools has vastly improved over the last 8-10 years.
What are the 15-20 tools?
@@colinl6703 Here's a link to get you started, but there are many more tools for the DIYer that I could recommend. ruclips.net/video/l0J36RglZRU/видео.html
I have the 1/2", 3/8", and 1/4" click-type torque wrenches from HF, and they've saved me from warped brakes, warped heads, and stripped bolts for years now. Another tool they have which I like, although for more personal reasons, are the multi-colored socket sets. They're strong and cheap, but I have many memories of my daughter helping me in the shop starting age 2, because with those sockets I could tell her to bring me the blue one, or the pink one, or the black one, and she could do it. It wasn't long before she started just reading the numbers off the sockets, and knew which one was what color.
That's wonderful. I wish I had kids so I could have that experience
Never to late@@funkmon
RESPECT
By the way, if you follow the tools tested channel, you’ll see that the Pittsburgh torque wrench is the most accurate budget torque wrench on the market.
Yep thanks
@MysteriousOklahomaDid you make sure that yours goes through the entire range of settings before you used it? I’ve heard that some don’t go all the way to 150 foot pounds out of the box, and you should return it if it doesn’t.
I also know you’re supposed to do a warmup before using them for the first time, and if they’ve been stored inactive for awhile.
I did a really thorough warmup on mine before using it for the first time, and it worked flawlessly for me.
Maybe you should take yours back under warranty.
I tried one and it was no good
@@jamescrawford8121 Try another one.
@@jamescrawford8121 you're right, I bought one back when they sold them for $9.99 and it was junk, I tried ever setting on the dial and it would never "click" I was afraid of breaking or stripping fasteners. I took it back, but that's not to say they haven't improved, HF has improved quality on quite a few products even tho they're still chinesium.
One thing to add, for returns they require a receipt so enroll in having them email you a receipt and make a folder for them. The paper receipts won’t stay legible even if you do keep it.
If you are an inside track member your purchases are kept in their system, I just took back a wrench purchased 8 years ago, when to closest store was 2 hours away, the new local store looked it up, gave my new wrench without hassle. I just had to wait about 15 minutes for the search, and they opened up a set off the shelf to replace mine.
Sears would replace a Craftsman tool without a receipt.
At the least take a picture of the paper receipt, that saved my ass a few time.
Since when they used to be anything with Pittsburgh on the side
They keep track of those purchases thru your phone number, at least where I live. No receipt required
The mini pick and hook set is a game changer. You literally don't know how hard life is without it until you've had them lol. Best random harbor freight purchase ever
agreed. Can't beat the price. I think it was $1.99
Good God, tell me about it! Just bought some a week ago and I can't believe it didn't buy them before! Orings? Easy peasy now!
Mine was FREE and i LOVE them!!
While yes $1.99 is a good price for those four picks and they are useful, I would recommend getting a larger more complete set (won't be as cheap per tool but much more useful.)
Their true best use for those 4 is ditching the warranty by breaking out the torch/welder & repurposing them as custom tools for specific jobs.
I've purchased a couple of these sets and the handles break loose so the pick kust spins. I bought the icon set and haven't had any problems yet.
I have all of your recommended tools. I would add the plastic interior tool set, a telescoping magnet, a magnetic parts bowl, and a magnetic shop light.
I would at 4 more magnetic parts bowls. You can’t have too many.
I just picked up the plastic interior tool set today 👍
Love the magnetic bowl, they are so great for keeping fasteners from rolling away.
Yes to all of your suggestions! Might also add a telescoping mirror (sometimes these are in a set with a magnetic pickup tool). I have everything but the extractor socket set (note to self: buy these) and the deep impact socket set; also, what I have isn't neccesarily the HF version. With what little I do myself, I don't have the need for the deep impact sockets; however, I have an impact extension that I use for recessed or obstructed areas.
+1 on the magnetic shop light, use it for everything!
The hand tools at HF have significantly improved over the years. I used to regularly snap sockets from them. I always keep a set of Pittsburgh wrenches and sockets around, because if I need a custom modified tool I don't feel bad taking a grinder or welder to them.
Yeah bud, cut a few wrenches in half myself. When you gotta get the job done, you do what you gotta do.
@@scottmichael3745 haha I inherited my father's tools and there was at least half a dozen wrenches cut in half.
I'm still beating away on a 6" mechanics vise I bought from the very first HFT store I saw in Escondido CA back in the late Seventies. All the wrenches and sockets I got from back then are still intact, too. Their steel has always been good.
I’ve sheared off a couple of adapters I got from HF. Not sure if the steel is bad it might be that I used the impact gun on them at 160 psi though…
@@paulnicholson1906 Nope, you're correct. It's not the same as "name" branded (the big 3, Mac, Matco, snap on) when it comes to "speciality" items. Swivel sockets, it's gotta be from the big 3, STUPID expensive, but works. But when it comes to BASIC standard wrenches Or sockets, Harbor freight stuff is GREAT! A basic 1/2" socket set (impact) from HF is like $70, from the big 3, $500 minimum. I've been a mechanic for 32 years now (because I'm too stupid to stop this abuse) and there are things you need to spend your money on "the good shit", but sockets ain't one of them. Wrenches don't generally break, nor do impact sockets. HF stuff, for the price, is a BARGAIN!
I picked up the 10mm essential socket set. A kit of several variations of the infamous missing 10mm. Look it up. One of those job saver things to have on hand
Harbor freight even did a RUclips ad about it. It was accurate 😂
I used to never buy anything from HF now it's my go to store I have all of those tools. I recently just found out how good their corded and cordless tools are and for the value you can't beat it anywhere
One tool I would add if you work on motorcycles is the 1/4" inch pound torque wrench. Very handy tool
1/2" breaker bar
Wobble extension set
Curved jaw locking pliers
Mini pick/hook set
C-clamp
Pry bar set
1/2" impact deep socket set
3/8" bolt extractor socket set
1/2" click type torque wrench
Agree on many you have shown. The major thing with HFT now is that their prices have reached the level of many non HFT items from other stores. Not bad but indicates that HFT is another equal store now. Not the cheap one that it used to be.
Exactly
They have the Icon line and others that are designed to compete with the tool truck and high end brand names. BUT, HF also still has the Pittsburgh and Chicago Electric lines that much less expensive and still plenty good enough quality to get the job done.
That wobble set is something I’m picking up ASAP!
I have most of these. The breaker bar is my favorite (right now). I use it on almost every job, I use it with the impact sockets because I also have an impact wrench. Those small picks are also extremely handy too. Something I would add is the punch and chisel set & hammer. Also some regular wrenches, and ratchets too.
The pin punch set is also a good product & buy!
I’ve had the Torque Wrench for 41 years now. Still works just fine!👍
The breaker bar is really good.
I bent the snot out of mine LOL I need to take them back for replacement. I bought 36" one and I haven't bent that one yet.
@@Bigdaddyslasher I saw the 1/2” compared with Snap On and other expensive brands, and it held up really well.
You must’ve used it really hard to bend it.
@Diligent Dave my dad used to tell me I could tear up a steel ball, so no, it wasn't hard to bend LOL
@@jacobnelson2480 I guess everyone has a different experience, depending on the situation, but one channel showed the 1/2” Pittsburgh to be very durable.
It’s hard to beat Proto, though.
AvE on RUclips did a test on the breaker bar.. it smoked the big brands if I recall correctly
I replaced the alternator & serpentine belt on my Camry yesterday & today. I used the shallow 19 mm impact socket on the 24" breaker bar. I bought the pry-bar set (just in case, but were unused), and have had the 1/4", 3/8" & 12" torque wrenches for years. I also have the HF 3-ton jack stands, which I used today as well.
Other tools listed in this video that are in my box are the "vise-grips" & wobble-extension bars. HF is only about a mile away, so very convenient for major projects (like changing out an alternator & serpentine belt). Too many other HF tools in my garage to mention here.
I finally joined the Inside Track Club yesterday. Should have done that every year, years ago! The ITC discounts going on this weekend alone nearly paid for the $30 subscription.
The Pittsburgh ½" drive impact deep socket set in Metric and SAE is a no brainer. Quite frankly, especially for the DIY Mechanics, that's the only ½" drive sockets to carry. If you're needing a ½" drive socket for a bolt, most likely you'll be able to use impact wrench anyway. Also, you can use the impact sockets on a hand ½" drive ratchet if you need too. The impact sockets will wear out faster than chrome ones, but with lifetime warranty, just get the worn out ones replaced for free. Plus, impact sockets are usually cheaper to buy than chrome ones. Save money when you can.
I agree with everything but the C-clamps. I have purchased them and after having so many of them twist I started buying used high quality ones instead. They aren't bad if you don't need a lot of clamping force but for what I'm working on they are just too weak. I'm usually working on tractors, forklifts, backhoes, dozers, so they might be just fine for folks needing lighter duty clamps.
Spot on list - I own damn near every tool you mentioned. An honorable mention that I'd add would be the Trim and molding tool set p/n 64126 for $8.99 I've used it a lot recently for taking off inner door panels and various dash trim pieces without marring up surface (using a screwdriver).
Yup that trim set is great stuff. Much better than just going after everything with a flathead lol. I don't know why anyone would ever spend more than 9 smackers for another brand. They are just molding pieces of plastic for goodness sake.
Yup! Great set! I used to install a dashcam , front and rear. All power/comm wires were tucked in and under trim in the car.
No wires visible.
@@williamevans6522 I used them to install backup cam and front view cam myself this past week. Nice goodies to have on old 4runner.
I recently bought a 36 inch steel pipe wrench from harbor freight, it's a Pittsburg brand because I needed one to break down a hydraulic cylinder end gland on my backhoe. This thing cost me $29.00 and it worked perfect. The gland measured out to be the same as a 4 inch pipe and I had already broke an aluminum 36 inch pipe wrench. Great value on this tool.
I agree about the wobble extension set. Removing Glaresheild brackets to R&R a #1 Window on 737 sure came in handy. Now that I am Retired good for my Harley too.
Great video! On a side note for you and your DIY audience, the US Military teaches to only torque to one click sounding, they have proven that doing multiple clicks actually changes the torque value in many cases!
This is 100 percent true
And support the ratchet head while applying pressure
A must-have for your toolbox is the wobble head impact set, 3/8 and 1/2 inch sets.
I've never tried the wobbles...gotta pick some up and give it a try.
Good video, instead of knocking HF, you mention that what you feel was a good value. It should be noted that there's a limit to what any tool can handle, work within its limitations and you'll most likely be satisfied.
Must have tools. Daytona 3 ton low profile jack and Daytona 6 ton jack stands. ICON 3/8 and 1/2 drive flex head torque wrenches. ICON reversible ratchet wrenches. Braun folding mag light. Pittsburgh tool creeper.
I have most of those tools as well, but would also recommend the titanium nitride coated 45 piece alloy steel tap & die sets in SAE and metric. I’ve used these sets to cut threads for automotive and ag equipment and they are no joke for the DIYer. $89.99 w/o a coupon, I got both my sets about 6 months ago with a 20% off coupon so they were a steal. I wouldn’t use them to cut parts for the space shuttle, but for auto or agricultural use they rock! 👍
Taps and dies are the worst thing to buy at Harbor Freight.
@@mdenz3
I just use mine for chasing damaged threads and no problem.
I wouldn't want to try cutting new threads with it.
I almost bought the 60pc or 80pc metric tap and die set but the price it's the gold anodized looking ones for $45 i got a grip on tools 110pc sae and metric tap and die set i believe off eBay
The folding magnetic base work light (Like "Mustie 1" uses). They make great stocking stuffers as well.
Hello fellow Mustie fan! Best fixit guy on the tube.
Best things I bought from HF are the floor jacks, small 3" cut off tool, Pitts pro impact deep sockets. Worst things pry bars bend, socket adapter twist off, regular chrome sockets round out, drills not so good.
My go to list that stays in my box. 10years worth of abuse in a professional environment and never broken ( except the ratchets but they lifetime warranty so the get exchanged for free)
#1 - Long Handle 3/8 Pit Pro Ratchet flex head
( Had it for 10years now 30$)
#2 - 1/4 Pit Pro flex head ratchet
#3 - 1/2 Pit Pro Impact Sockets Deep
#4 - 1/2 Pit Pro Impact Sockets Shallow
#5 - Craftsman 540pc socket set ( on sale for 699$ instead of 1300$)
#6 - US general Roll cart ( just as good as snap on and matco had mine for 8years now ZERO issues at the shop and holds everything I need to swap any engine and transmission)
#7 - Pry bar set you mentioned
#8 - Pick set you mentioned
#9 - HF Bench Grinder mid size with one abrasive wheel and one steel wire wheel
#10 - HF 20ton shop press
#11 - HF Pit Pro/Daytona series Jacks/6ton Jack stands ( had my Pit Pro grey 3ton jacks for 10years now and never ever had an issue after beating the hell out of them and just picked up the Daytona series for home after using two of them at the shop for over a year now on everything you can imagine )
10 years ago I broke two Craftsmen breaker bars. The people at Sears were real a-holes about exchanging them I don't understand what the problem was. I bought a harbor freight and tool breaker bar. 8 years ago and have been using it since without a single breakage.
The Mini Pick set is your goto for pokers to clean your bong or pipes.. Best Value out there!
More people should be like you. Great video and straight to the point
I agree with your list my add on suggestion is a set of swivel sockets
I do industrial maintenance and have stuff from almost every brand including plenty of HF. Their 1/2 in breaker bar with the bigger style head hasn't let me down ( I _have_ broken the 3/8 ones though). I don't like the pry-bars, too much flex and the handles break because they're not full tang. The "vice-grip" set I bought also had some really bad jaw defects. Picks are great for a buck. Impact sockets are also great. Mini diamond files are surprisingly adequate. Icon swivel head ratchet gets a lot of use and keeps going. The little Chief die grinder is the best I've ever had. The XT stubby impacts are awesome lil monsters. I've got a few of their smallest cheap voyager bags, good enough for locker duty stuff. All that said, my favorite value from HF are the US General boxes, can't come close to matching them for the price.
Just bought the ball joint separator for $19 because my pickle fork wasn't cutting it. Best $19 I've spent in years. Harbor Freight saved the day once again
That Breaker Bar is cheap but every time I use it to me the bar flexes/bends way to much to the point I'm not comfortable with it but it works & is cheap. I just wish it was more rigid I'm sure it was engineered that way to keep from breaking the head off. Due to it looks like one is going to break the handle off they may stop & get something else. And wow when it's near the breaking point the bar has a real rubber band effect when the nut or bolt gives up. Sometimes its best to use my 3/4 drive bar or ratchet & a pipe, make sure to buy their lifetime 3/4 to 1/2 adapter it comes in a set. Best wishes to you keep the skin on your knuckles & work safe.
The breaker bar, pry bars, and torque wrenches are really good quality. I wrapped the hadles of the pry & breaker bars with silicon tape for extra grip.
HF's long drive pin punch set is pretty good. Hard to get a tool like this wrong.
I have the punch set and love it.
Their ratchets with a rotating head are a real game changer for me. I'm talking about the ones with a comfort handle which attaches on either side of the ratcheting mechanism. Break or tighten the fastener with the handle to the side and thread or unthread with the handle perpendicular even if you can't make a full rotation.
Great video! One note for you, we were taught in the US Military to only click ONCE when using a torque wrench, clicking more than once actually changes the torque value you are applying, like near the end when you clicked each wheel lug nut twice.
Sorry just noticed I already posted this!
I can see why Harbor Freight can offer a Lifetime Warranty on these tool as they do not involve a lot of moving parts that could fail. These are pretty much solid materials. I have purchased many of their tools over many years and they can be ideal for someone that occasionally needs some tools, but not for daily use as those with power or more moving parts can fail. But they are cheap in the meantime.
And, when the people manufacturing the items can be paid with a bowl of rice, a half cup of pigeon soup, and a cigarette for a days work, you can afford to replace each item a dozen times over and still make a huge profit!
Most tools I have picked up at Harbor, are at the bottom of the ocean after fishing mishaps.
My top items that I’ve bought in the few months was the 4k lbs Daytona jack, the Predator auger, Cen-Tech battery charger/jump starter and the high impact socket set. Been happy with all of these purchases and I did get the extended warranties due to the fact that I got them all on sale so it only made sense to get 3 years added and still be under or at the original price. They do carry some good stuff as like the dent remover that I bought years ago and still use and still works great. Plenty of tools because I’m most likely to lose them than I am to break them.
Good job! Great reviews & presentation. I concur and have most every recommended items. I call them ‘disposable tools’, however, I’m not a full time mechanic and they work quite well for my needs.
Ex Subaru lube tech here the extractor set saved my ass when I rounded the 14 mm plug, highly recommend them for drain plugs and more
The best tool I got was a set of 115 cobalt drills. They work great cutting through most tough steels or any other lighter metals. Even though its not lifetime guaranteed, they are truly workhorses.
The 7 piece axle nut socket set is an absolute must have. Very durable. My set is going on 13 years of almost daily use.
That set rocks. I got it just so I have a 36 for my CV axles.
Have to say I have been very happy with the 301 piece tool kit, bought mine for 159 bucks which is about 50 cents a piece. It does include the 10 mm and 15 mm that some kits are missing.
My teenage son bought that set a few months ago and I have to say I’m envious. I have all the same tools but they were assembled piecemeal from various brands over the years (and therefore cost far more). Mine are always impossible to find I need them because they’re scattered around in different bags or boxes.
Edit: My only complaint with his set is for some strange reason it didn’t come with 1/4” extensions, so I got him some for Christmas :)
If the 10 and 15 were included then someone in final inspection needs to be fired. Lol
I have been using my 301 pc set since 2016 in industrial maintenance...I am quite satisfied with the kit
Add the deadblow hammers, remove the prybars because they flex, get the US made hyper tough prybars from Walmart (made by wilde). Also I prefer the Bremen locking pliers over Pittsburgh in quality, worth the price difference.
I think I have one of the prybars from HF, yep, those things are terrible, they must be spring steel because they bend so bad when you try to use them. I use Irwin locking pliers, but Bremen are good too.
I have a yellow hard handle black carbon steel 4-5 PC titan tools pry bar set was $17
I would add the 1/2"corded impact wrench. Handy and tough.
I have welded in shipyards with high dollar equipment f0r 35 years and being retired now, I find their welding machines do everything I need around the farm. Their 9000 watt Predator generator is fabulous and runs their MIG (GMAW) AND (FCAW) wire feeders and ) TIG (GTAW) machines beautifully.
I have the 9K Predator generator but Primeweld > HF for welders, all day long.
Have most of them.
The breaker bar I have, is from before they put the plastic on the handle. It's had a 6' pipe on it, with my 230# on the end many times, haven't broken it yet 👍
Nice list. I own 6 of 7 of them.
I fully avoid tool trucks unless I need a specific "special tool".. (or a snap on Phillips screw driver..) having said that.. literally the last Matco catalog had a 4 piece pick set for $145.50!!! I guess you DO get the choice of green or orange... 😖
There is no emergency that warrants spending $143 dollars more for the same thing..
I seem to use rubber mallets a lot. HF mallets are cheap enough that I can stash them all over the place. I like their 1 inch belt sander. I've used mine a lot and it's held up well. The sanding belts aren't too bad.
I bought their grayish medium weight contractor garden hose. I wouldn't recommend it. Same with their wet stones and drill bits.
My HF heat gun and oscillating tool have held up well. We used the oscillating tool to cut sheet rock out of a house that flooded in Hurricane Harvey. It did great!
Their small pump sprayers seem pretty good as well. The one I have holds about 1/2 to 1 gallon. I forget. But it's a handy size for a home garden. I'm waiting to catch them on same to pick up a couple of more. Then I can gave dedicated ones for hazardous vs non hazardous stuff.
I agree, the C clamps are good. I also like the wooden ones. The ones that you squeeze several times to ratchet tight are hit or miss. Some back off a tad making impossible to get them really tight.
My neighbor has their bead blaster. I've used it and love it. If you only need a certain tool a couple of times a year the cost/quality is often worth it.
I use crow bars pretty often. They make one that's flat and it's about 15-20 inches long. I love it, and a small block of wood, for pulling nails.
I'm wondering, if you have an assortment of crow bars, why you might you need a pry bar? Or do you? They just look like metro crow bars to me, with only one useful end.m
I have to agree with your choices, I own almost all of them. Didn't realize they have a lifetime warranty, that's impressive. So far I haven't noticed any problems. As an example, I've used my torque wrench many, many times over the 20+ years I've owned it, I keep it in it's plastic case when not in use and it's never given me a lick of trouble. I've owned most of my harbor freight hand tools for at least that long and they are doing just fine. Harbor freight sales some inferior stuff too but I steer clear of that kind of stuff.
I have the deep impact sockets, been beating the hell out of them for over 17yrs as a professional ag equipment tech, only broke 1 socket, got it exchanged with no questions! I have 2 broken Matco torque wrenches that cost about $900-1000 that are broke and they can't fix them, HF has the Icon torque wrenches for less than half the price with Lifetime warranty! Its not to difficult to figure out where I'm going to buy them
Well.. I was prepared to make faces and groan but, I Agree with your tool choices....
Must have?
Tool box. Had one last through 20+ years as heavy equipment mechanic. On retirement I sold it to a relative that has a small ranch
YES to the mini pick and hook set! I bought mine on a whim while standing in line and have used them for a hundred different things, all of which would've been a PITA without them.
Three tools that I use a LOT is a 3/8" speed handle, a ball end ratcheting nut/bit driver and a headlamp.
My speed handles are sk
recommend multimeter..voltage checker..flashlites..pushsticks..air compressor...levels..clamps...microtowls. ...gloves...variety bolts screws washers nails nuts...paintbrushes...outdoor solarlights .. security camera..
thats the first trip.....
ohya...
hotgun ..solder gun...oil gun...superglue....tape...etc .
FUNFUN!!!!!💰🔦🧤🕶️📎📐⛏️🔑
That extractor set really got me out of a bind! I couldn’t believe how well it worked
I agree with all 9 tools, and you also cannot beat the US General tool chests/roller cabinets. There is no better value than the US General line for the price point.
Another one I like from HF is their 1/2" drive Flex-Head Long Handle ratchet. I have beat the hell out of this thing, and it just keeps kicking ass.
Great video, Daninator!!
I checked them out last week, prepared to hate them for being flimsy or thin gauge steel or whatever. I was genuinely shocked how nice they are. They seem really solid, and have really nice drawer action, with locking drawers.
I’m adding some of these to my garage in the next month or two.
Getting a craftsman toolbox out of the dumpster at school could probably beat that, but it's not like that ever happened to anybody
My US General 44" top/bottom combo unit is 17+ years old, sits out on an open air carport and works great, just a bit dirty, and in need of an upgrade to a larger combo unit as I've managed to gather up enough tools over the years to outgrow it LOL. Although the US General stuff has gone up in price, its still a great deal. I probably will end up going with the 56" combo at some point, and hopefully by then they have end lockers that'll attach to them, as the ones they sell now only work on the 44" models...and don't fit the old style 44" ones unfortunately, otherwise I'd just buy a couple of them and add to mine and call it good LOL.
It took me 5 trips to buy my roll around tool chest. They couldn't figure out if they had them to sell
Just ordered a yellow sidebox to hang on my yellow DeWalt big box that I've had for several years... the fit and finish are on par with each other, the DeWalt is equiv to todays Craftsman (seeing as they are the same company) for a long time they were the only pro-sumer priced box with rolled edges on their drawers - now the Generals are doing that trick, too.
I just picked up a Quinn 1/2” torque wrench and Pittsburgh metric impact socket set, and was very pleased with the quality of both. I considered the Pittsburgh wrench, but the Quinn seemed better built and I liked the longer handle for extra leverage.
buy most all my tools there and have only had ONE in 20 yrs that ever failed in a short time..all others still working fine..I have cement mixer..wrenches..grinders..torque wrenches..love the tools..prices..very good..
I use the pick set a lot too! Impact sockets are a great deal. I’ve seen their hand tools improve in fit and finish lately.
I use the picks a lot cleaning guns.
The orange handles on the cheap mini picks come loose (and rotate).
@DevJB
Really need BOTH sizes.
@@RU_Kidding_Me
Have you tried a bit of loctite ?
Just make sure the handle and shaft are CLEAN and grease/oil free.
Orange ones are junk. Had the handles fall off. Not worth the gas to return them.
Got those wobble extensions, those things saved me lots of times.
Good deal. I love em
My favorites is the locking impact extensions and sludge mallets. All the impact stuff is great stuff. I do have a soft spot for good old craftsman also Husky impact sockets. Other than that. I mostly have Apex and cornwell.
Wear eye protection ANY time you use HF wrenches or socket sets
I have the vice grip set that won't hold anything. The C clamp set al bent on first use. Not warranted. Told to go pound sand.
The magnetic trays. I have a pile of the 3” size from when they were free with coupons. I love them and use them on everything.
The pass through socket set for $25 has a lifetime warranty and has become my go to set. It has 72 teeth for those tight spaces and I think I paid about $20 near Christmas.
Mine broke the first day of using it when I tried to remove the socket
I've not ever taken a tool back to HF. I don't know about their 'lifetime warranty ' tools if you need the receipt? For a long time, Craftsman just had you bring the tool back....later on only with a receipt. Receipts are tough to find after five yrs for a lot of us. I keep them in a folder with all my tax returns, but I often don't remember what yr I bought the tool. Historically, companies don't like to replace tools with warranties without receipts because people can buy them used, or out of junk boxes in pawn shops, etc.
I find that the slightly extra money over Pittsburgh to buy the ICON line tools is generally worth it.
@@Chris-bh3cm Twice I've been duped into the 'Fast Track Club'....never has it paid for itself. Every time I go in I ask if there is a discount on an item for the 'Fast Track Club' and it's always, "Sorry, not today." The thing is, I don't want HF telling me what to buy to get a discount. I would rather the items I WANT be at a discount when I'm in the store.
@@Chris-bh3cm Yes, join their "club" that way they can sell your information to make more money off of you....
If you have their phone number with them you don’t’ need a receipt.
Sorry your phone number with them. I returned a Doyle flush cutter and just gave them my phone number.
All these tools are available from Tecton at or near HFs price point lifetime warranty and no dragging the tool back to HF, just sent Tecton a picture of the broken tool, they send you a new one.
Tecton is based in Michigan and their tools are made in USA and Taiwan.
I have s store 15 minutes away , have never been in it once . I’ll ge going this weekend , just bought a brand new tool box set up and need a few things . It will be worth the couple hundred bucks to get some odds and ends . Thank you !
I have the Pittsburg pass thru ratchet set. It broke a few years after use. Took it back and got a new one. No questions asked. Pittsburg is not great but for the every now and then DIYer it’s cost over quality with a lifetime warranty. I figure the cost of the tool for a single job and if it lasts longer, great.
I have the Pittsburgh click type torque wrench but won't use it because the calibration is WAY off. You reminded me that it's a lifetime warranty so I think I'll take it back and exchange it.
Several years ago I bought a tire pressure gauge, the big one used for trucks.
It's reading is about TEN POUNDS off when checked with a certified gauge.
Too bad they don't stock that one any more......... bummer ! 😭
FYI I have 8 of these different tools that you have presented! I have had them for 20 years
3
I have all the tools you showed, and every single wrench and combination wrench set they carry.
I have their motorcycle lift and the ratcheting straps to hold the bike steady too.
Their tools used to really suck, but it seems their quality has really come up over the past few years.
Thanks. Good video.
I would add the 301 piece Pittsburgh tool kit. It's $219.99 currently but you can wait for a sale at $169.99. It has virtually everything you will need for whatever you are doing other than the combination wrench selection is limited. I'm on my 5th set due to theft. But they are amazing and I've never broken anything in the kit. Even with an impact.
I'd buy the Craftsman set on sale at the end of years. Same amount of tools about same price on sale and better quality.
That set is great, get's you very well set on tools with one purchase. Nothing in the set has broken on me yet and I've abused some of the sockets on my impact quite a bit.
Definitely a nice list. Only tool I disagree with is their pry bars, at least some of them. The flex that they have in them can be problematic when putting a ton of force on them. I work in industrial maintenance and this is one of a very few HF tools I have replaced for my safety. I replaced them with a set of Mayhew’s and the difference is very noticeable. The flex in the shaft is gone and I can strike them with a hammer which is useful. Just my two cents on it, but generally speaking HF’s hand tools have always been a good value and work just fine for most jobs.
Yes repent Brandon for speaking ill of the pry bar!! lol. I like them but know what you mean. I have a better pry bar for times I don’t want to chance breaking them or busting my knuckles. They are good for smaller tasks though. I saw that craftsman sells the same exact set as HF.
Thanks for the heads up, I was about to buy the pry bars.
@@MrAsmith1583 Buy the Hypertough ones from Walmart...they are rebranded Wilde pry bars. A little more than HF, but premium quality, night and day difference between them. I just wish the name wasn't so damn cheesy, lol.
Love the Mayhew
Agreed! Spend the money here and you’ll be happy you did.
My favorite HF tool is the telescoping 1/2" rachet. I have the telescoping 3/8"&1/4" combo rachet, too.
I'd add the Pittsburgh 21 Piece SAE & Metric Go-Thru Socket Set
#1. I've purchased several of these and gave them to friends and family as gifts
The C-clamps are horrible, they twist as soon as you apply much torque on them. I have a couple of old rusted clamps I bought at a yard sale that are far better, The HF ones are back up only
I’ve had the threads oblong out and strip. Being malleable iron they aren’t hardened.
Harbor freight 3 ton floor jack. I finally got one a couple years back. So much easier to lift a car up than the scissor jack.
Not sure if it has the lifetime warranty, but I'd DEFINITELY add the 3 ton low profile jack to your list. Makes lifting your vehicle a breeze with its double piston design and for that great value you mention. I've had mine for ~10 years or so and it never fails. I recently purchased a cherry picker through HF, I'm looking forward to testing it out soon. Just my $0.02. :)
I was just moving my jack around the garage this morning and trying to remember how long I've owned. GREAT value for the money.
Very good presentation, straight to the point, no B.S.
I have almost all of these with the exception of the pry bars and impact sockets. I have a 4pc Matco set from 6" to 36" and impact sockets are Craftsman that I got like 14 years ago as an X-Mas gift. Never had a single issue with the other 7 products from this video and I've had them for 8-12 years and use them all the time. Screwdrivers are good too, forget tool truck prices on a 4 or 8 piece set.
That breaker bar with their very accurate Digital Torque Adapter. Oh yes!!
Good choices. I probably would have included a pair of long reach bent nose pliers, and maybe the padded handled 1/4” and 3/8” 90t ratchets which I love. The torque wrench has always been a question mark for me. If it’s important enough to be torqued specifically, then it’s important enough to invest in a good torque wrench IMHO.
You can calibrate it to make sure it works right. Using a 25 pound weight and a bolt. I used the clicker on head bolts after checking and the head is still holding.
@@anthonyclayton3219 Honestly I've been pleased with my Pittsburgh and Quinn torque wrenches as far as accuracy but I'm not sure I would go so far as to use them for head bolts, breaking one of those is a scary thought. If I ever have to do head work I'm going to find someone with some higher end wrenches to borrow. Hoping I don't have to touch the heads on my 98 4runner for a very very long time though (280k and runs like a top, I suspect one of the P/Os already did head work).
About that torque wrench...........I was rebuilding my 4L60e , installing my newly rebuilt valve body, ( purchased torque wrench just for this ) I sheared 2 consecutive bolts. I assumed I had misread something. Long story short , as I admitted to myself as I bought my new Snap-on torque, ya get wat ya pay for !!!
Ask yourself before you buy , is it worth doing right ?? If so, it may cost more initially but some things are well worth it. Actual customer here.
I would add the composite ratchets. Great value and always on sale.
The operative word here is "diy"; was a professional tech for 22yrs, ended in 2000 before Harbor Freight hit it's stride. Bought a lot of their tools since as many of mine were 40+ years old - ratchets, breaker bars, cordless drills, cordless impact driver, radiator pressure tester kit, A/C gages, battery jump pack, battery charger,floor jack, drill bits, portable oxy/acetylene torch set. Only things I've replaced under warranty was a 1/4"dr ratchet and a Chicago Electric flux wire welder.
Love those wobble extensions. My two favorite things from them aren't quite on their more budget side though, The Hercules Ultratorque impact and the Badlands Offroad Jack. The impact is to be fair not much cheaper than the likes of Milwuakee but every bit as good (I think a youtube channel showed it had more torque on breaking fasteners than the Milwuakee). The offroad jack is better than the only other offering on the market (it has a 45* handle lock that is stupidly handy) and it's half the price of that other option. Not the hugest fan of the 1/2" Pittsburgh torque wrench. I mean it's not terrible and it's accurate but it's pretty rough to adjust and it wasn't even clear to me where I was as when it was on 0 it would be almost between one line and the next so it was hard to tell if I was at 30 or 40, etc. I did some testing though against my Quinn and figured it out. I REALLY like the 1/2" Quinn one I have though and it goes from 50-250lbs. I only use the Pittsburgh now for when I need less than 50lbs of torque on a fastener.
I have all but the bolt extractors and would agree with one exception. I have swapped out the torque wrench twice before I finally bought a Husky. A torque wrence that doesn't click at the right time is just a wrachet. I was over tightening all my bolts and breaking some. The way it fails is the problem because it fails to provide the proper torque. It will still click just not at the right time. I always loosen when not using them and it still failed twice. I am not sure if it ever worked properly.
I have used the 1/2" Deep Well sockets SAE, and Metric, and 3/8" along with the Pittsburg wrench set especially the 1 1/4, 1 1/8. What did I use them for working on equipment on the railroad. We're talking Big Boy Bolts and nuts. Never broke one. I'd say thats a pretty good tool. Used the breaker bar also. Good Stuff.
Good things to get from HF are towing accessories like hitches. Those have to be DOT approved so whatever you get there is not only cheaper than most other places they have been vetted by the DOT.
Yes, and any chunk of steel generally. I have a monster pinch-point bar.
Yeah, ask them about their recalled Jack stands……but you saved a few bucks, so it’s worth it right??
@@otebryan I got the email about that recall and checked my SKUs -- no problem. Been using HF stands for years. I always double up and overkill the weight rating but I would do that with any stand simply because I want the extra height of a larger stand