Icon seems to be a quality middle priced tool for people who don’t need or can’t afford professional level tool truck tools. Hopefully they continue to develop the line.
At the risk of being called "shills" you guys unanimously approve! Duly noted. Thanks for the unbiased video. And free of profanity and patting yourself on the back. Thumbs up from me.
I own a lot of Snap On. But gotta say I bought a ICON 1/4 flex head and just WOW. It’s tiny, gets into impossible areas, and sooooo smooth! Im impressed. Snap on doesn’t even make a comparable ratchet that I’m aware of in this size.
And the reaction from the tool trucks: Hamilton - Oh Crap!!!! Matco Micheal - I need to beat them on customer service. Mr Joe - I wonder if they give bulk discounts.
I’ve got that Icon 3/8 swivel head ratchet, US General roll cart. Been real happy with those. I just do around the house type shit. Their little 1x30 belt grinder is pretty good too.
For me it's the ideal home ratchet. With that said, the alternative I recommend is to buy a used tool truck ratchet second hand either off another tool truck (i.e. buying a Matco off a snap on truck) or pawn shop, then buy the ratchets rebuild kit for that specific ratchet. This way, you have the ability to rebuild the ratchet in the shop immediately and you get good quality especially starting out.
You guys are great at evaluating tools in a realistic approach, and unbiased. Your totally right about Harbor Freight filling the gap with Sears closing. This new line of tools is the topic of much skepticism and debate; however, you guys have broke this down, and simplified it to a conclusion. Not bad. Thank you. 👍
Nice review. I've been using my Mastercraft set for 25 yrs of torture and now that these icon tools came out I got the fever to upgrade. With the free 3/8 ratchet and the coupons coming out I'm doing pretty good price wise. Yeah I know there are other good brands too but for me Icon seems to fit me.Thanks
Good balanced review. The Icon ratchets definitely fill the void between cheap ratchets and tool truck tools. For someone like me that does there own basic to moderately difficult repairs and upgrades in the garage or driveway it’s pretty much the perfect middle of the road option.
I don't think the Icon will replace Snap-On, but I've been saying for while now HF is replacing the niche market that was Sears tool department. (Originally posted to the head to head video)
Icon ratcheting wrenches are really nice. I am using them at work and have brought my Gearwrench home for home use. The Icons ratcheting end reaches into nooks and crannies that a Gearwrench wouldn't have a chance to get to. I just really can't say enough how much I like them.
I would think they'd be good for a new tech just trying to get started. They could get 3/8 and 1/2 inch set for less than just a 3/8 set. They should last till you can afford snap-on or matco then make a good home set.
I agree I have the long 3/8 flex with the comfort grip and it’s been a good ratchet. Now I don’t mechanic for a living but I am always buy and selling cars and equipment so I use tools almost every day as well, not all day long but at least a few times a day. I did have the locking up issue at first but I did a little mechanical engineering on the pawl and it’s been pretty much trouble free since. For what it’s worth I have a 3/8 matco 88 locking flex that has the same issue with locking up. I think once they get the problem taken care of this is going to become a popular ratchet it does feel good in the hand and it actually feels quite solid. Obviously that’s my opinion but I’m sticking by it.
I am older wrenched for 45 + years and now retired. What Harbor Freight actually is doing is as you stated filling the spot Sears had with the old USA Craftsman tools. I think that for me I wish we had them at my former employer as we never had a tool truck and had to buy tools on the market. Great to see that Harbor Freight is stepping up to plate. As a former aviation mechanic I can see a lot areas the 1/4" flex head ratchet would have been the cats meow
I love the honesty, I’m a huge Snap on fan but your right it’s refreshing that harbor freight is listening to its customers and actually making great tools for the price.
Thank you for uploading these videos. Helps weekend car boys like me to see if it’s worth it. I’ll never buy snap on or something to that extent purely for the price. Love the honest reviews and can’t wait to get some ICON tools!
I recently bought the 1/4 inch icon rubber handle ratchet for around 35$ to 40$ compared to the High priced ones which I do own many good Snap-on and Matco ratchets but I did enjoy using the icon. I haven’t had any problems out of it so far, so for the price of the ratchet and money can be tight being a mechanic, I do agree with you and with Wally and bill I’d recommend it to. its harbor freights best ratchet they have in the store. But I do love my Matco and Snap-on always
I've been watching your channel for a while now and love it. I have seen lots of reviews about the ICON tools, but your review seems.the most honest and sincere to me. I do believe that I will get some for the house at least. And by the way.......keep up with the great videos!
This helped me decide to get the Icon tools. I’m a new aircraft technician and is killing me to build a decent starting kit with snap on stuff. May be in the future I’ll be able to make it happen but for now this will do the work until I Walk the road a little more. And by the way those uniforms are badass. Thx for all your videos
Old school mechanic here, I had a few Snap-on drive rachets in the past, I heard of the Icon drive ratchet so I bought one put it to the test, and took it apart to compare it to my Snap-on. Gotta say first off that Icon ratchet can take a beating, and yes still functioning, I had a few Snap-on drive ratchets, I had 2 of them snapped. So later to compare Icon vs Snap-on, there mechanism are about the same. Overall I think Icon is about the same as Snap-on. Its just for me the Icon feels alot better then the Snap-on..and also the difference is the price. My personal opinion I would stick to the Icon. Better deal in pricing, better functionality then the Snap-on. In reality you just paying for the name and I guess cool design logo in craved on the Snap-on. But hay that's just my opinion. But overall cool review 👍
Warranty replacement of Craftsman tools at Lowes is easy.Find the replacement,taking that and the broken or worn tool to the customer service desk.Did this with two worn out 3/8 drive deepwell impact sockets,walked out with replacements.
@@thisguy7254 not as easy as you think they told me to take my old 3/8 drive craftsman ratchet back to sears where i bought it...they kept saying you didnt purchase it here at the returns desk they wouldnt honor a warranty for a old broken craftsman tool.that wasnt purchased at lowes and this was at lowes in trussville alabama ...oh yeah later took it to ace hardware and they replaced it with a brand new one no questions asked and very friendly too... awesome review on this icon ratchet guys!
Thanks Clay. I especially respect your opinions since you have Bill and Wally to help you stress items under daily working conditions. I haven't needed to purchase any ICON tools but one of my most used ratchets is the Pittsburgh Pro long 3/8 flex head. I just don't fee bad for abusing my $20 ratchet! Ha Ha
for sure, Sears quality started going down years ago...Thats all I use to buy in the 90's and early 2000's, I know you can buy craftsman now at lowes but I feel like the quality is about the same as HF anymore and those stores are everywhere near me and the return policy is on par with how sears use to be.
I have Harbor Freight stuff and plenty of Snap on stuff in my box. It all serves a purpose. It is very nice to see a review that is not biased in a company's favor by somebody who has been given the product. Another channel that we all know of simply gives Icon glowing reviews and just bashes Snap on constantly. However, if the ratchet is binding...I'd return it. None my ratchets bind. Not even my $15 Pittsburgh or 50 year old SK Wayne ratchets.
I'm looking forward to your review of the icon ratchet wrenches. I played with them in the store the other day and was impressed. Feels like a quality tool, and it looks like you could get a ton of leverage with the length if the ratchet end holds up.
If I were just starting out in the trade, I’d be all over these Icon tools. I’m especially attracted to the tool boxes. If I didn’t already have a wall full of boxes, I’d probably build me a set-up like JRC54 has with his snappy boxes. Hell, I might just do that anyway! 😝
I’m a Snap-on fanboy but I’m willing to give that icon ratchet a try. I was kinda sold when you took it onto the Snap-on truck and it performed well. Now after a few weeks and everyone in the shop is still happy with it gotta try it now for sure. Keep up the videos Sir and have a great day
Wild Bill, Wally, and Clay Koon approved 3 for 3 lol... I think a lot of the people who are angry over this tool line would agree if they had an open mind and was willing to try but I think some people just don't want to get passed that. Are these tools perfect? No but man for the price versus the quality which equals value and dollar for dollar all the tools are great in my opinion. Good video Clay.
I was checking that ratchet out the other day at the store. Was actually waiting for the review before I pulled the trigger. Guess I will be getting me one of those on the next trip. Thanks.
So I went ahead a bought a 1/2 flex head I own snap on Mac tools an in my opinion it works well keeps up with my "American Made" tools just fine. The only thing I did do to smooth it out and cut some of the tooth noise is I greased the inside of the head. 43.00 well spent in my book.
I like my icon ratchets I own a couple of them at work and they never let me down I enjoy using these icons at work being a starting out auto tech can’t afford the snap on as much as I’d like too but I will say the comfort grip icon 3/8 and 1/2 drive ones are comfy in the hand and the Daytona floor jacks they have are a plus too!
Agree with you Sir, Snap-On Tools are the Best but since Harbor Frieght has stepped up their game in a MAJOR WAY with ICON Tools, I have been buying all ICON Tools now and filled my old Blue Point 4 draw tool cart. Sold it and all my old craftsman Tools with it went and purchased the 44" US General box until I get the 73" ICON ToolBox in December if I can hold out that long? My 44" Box is almost full now with about 80% ICON Tools.
A mechanic worth his salt is one who can achieve the same end result with spending the least of his income to achieve his income. You are in business to make money and provide for your family. If you can do a great job while keeping more of your hard earned money, you are the smarter professional.
A fair review, hard to find nowadays. (I known this video is a year old) Too many are desperate to either praise or disparage them. With almost any less expensive tool, don’t assume it’s junk. Just try it out, see for yourself.
I like to buy American made tools. Honestly though most don’t have a tool truck accessible. Also seriously snap on is ridiculously over priced. They take advantage of people.
I have used the 3/8ths ratchet, and the 1/2 in flex head. I like the flex head. The standard ratchet isn’t very good to me though. It switches directions occasionally and just doesn’t feel as quality as others.
Very happy to watch your review.... I would really like to get a hands on this Icon ratchet but unfortunately I live in Canada.... Maybe one day Harbour Freight will do business in Canada. Good format for the review and long term use. Keep the good work. À bientôt!
Clay, Gearwrench does have a locking flex head just like the Matco does. Same design, locks the same. I have not broke mine yet but I am pretty easy on my tools as well.
Mark gearwrench also sells an 84t flex for 34.99 from amazon, or advance auto parts has them for about the same. Been using my gearwrench stuff for two years. I did get my flex warrantied out they gave me a tech pro which is identical
@@elmoz71ls15 Thanks. I own both the 84 tooth locking flex head ratchets and also all 3 of the 120 xp's. I am trying to build up a nice tool collection for my son. I have just about handed all my craftsman sockets I bought 35 yrs ago to him already. My only problem I have buying the ratchets from Amazon is they arrive looking like they went through world war 3. All 6 ratchets I have bought from Amazon came all scratched up and some defects in the chrome. I also live in Canada and things here are just a little more expensive. But thanks for the comment.
Yup that's a big void but as older guys pass on the youngster will like . What was sears??? Any one remember western auto ? Car parts ,car repair ,lawn mower,window ac units all under one roof LOL
@@tooltime6108 It's pretty fun. I'm still green. Just got my A+P back in May and am in my first real mechanic job. Still learning alot but I work under a master mechanic who has been an A+P for over 60 years. And, I get to play with airplanes all day. But the process of getting an A+P is hard and stressful no matter how you do it. I went to a 4 year university and became eligible to test that way (Also have a B.S. in Aerospace Maintenance Management). Military is another really good way to get your sign offs. Then you can take a short crash course (usually 10 days or so). Or get a job at a mom and pop shop working under the guide of another A+P who is willing to teach you and sign for your work. But if you really want to do it then don't wait. Find a school near you. Tech schools have alot of 2 year programs that will also allow you to test. Then the actual testing process is 3 written exams (Airframe, Powerplant, and Generals and all have to be done at an official FAA testing facility on a computer). The General is 60 questions. Other two are 100. You must pass all 3 with at least a 70. Then you have to pass an Oral and Practical test. If you do all three sections at the same time that is easily a 12-16 hour day. You and a Designated Maintenance Examiner and no one else. No notes. No nothing. You just come with your paperwork and the money to pay him. He provides everything else. He will ask you hundreds of questions that you must answer correctly from memory. Some are easy (What does a pressure regulator do? It regulates pressure) and some are very very difficult. Then he will give you probably 25 or so projects that you will have to perform to a satisfactory level. Then, you are FINALLY awarded an A+P. But, once it's yours it's yours for life. And at least for me I had people chomping at the bit trying to get me and I had to choose between 3 different job offers. Hope this helps and good luck!
I was told at Ace Hardware that Milwaukee is supposed to be replacing the craftsman. So eventually you won't see craftsman you will see a Milwaukee section.
I'm a diesel apprentice, and I don't make what the other guys in the shop make so harbor freight is well represented in my tool box. That being said, I wouldn't go past ratchets and maybe combination wrenches. Icon stuff like ratcheting wrenches are more expensive then better quality stuff like gear wrench. That said, as a happy owner of snap on ratchets, these icon ones are a good buy, even in a heavy duty setting.
good home tool. but for me nothing can replace the snap on comfort grip. love it too much. the real question is, how much do you have to spend, to get a ratchet you would honestly say is better.
Look it's this simple for me, do I put a snap on, mac, matco, or cornwell tool set on my rig to do emergency repair to get me to a big truck shop or do I put icons on my rig well, which would hurt your wallet more if they were stolen?
I've been waiting for this review and I guess I'm going to go ahead and pick up a couple of ICON ratchets since y'all like them so much. It was nice to go to Sears and check out the sales on American Made Craftsman tools. There is a huge void in that market, maybe Craftsman will come back home and we will have USA made tools again at a fair price.
If it approved by you guys, I believe in it 👍 you put it through real world testing, and it held up. You didnt promote the crap out of it like "the bear" and talked trash about other tool companies like he did. You didnt create a video like the other guy on youtube that just breaks ratchets with pipes. Real world testing is what we wanted to see. 👍
Lol the bear is a joke. He says harbor freight power tools are better than dewalt and milwaukee. If I need advice on what fork to buy I'd ask him but as far as tools opinion from a working person in a trade is where to go
@@hachi-rokuperformancegroup3987 agreed. Anything HF according to him is beter than the other brands. My guess is he gets some sort of cut from sales his channel gets them. I dont watch his channel anymore.
@@-Jason-L no he still believes Hercules is the best. He also claims dewalts batteries are the most expensive and thats not true either. The guy is a hf fan boy and does tool videos with his tools not work everyday in a trade. Those tools don't last thats why you don't see that many cheap power tools.
Nothing wrong with those tools. The best tools are those that do their intended job, reliably, and at a price that fits your budget. I’ve never asked my mechanic what kind of tools they use to fix my car. As a DIY’er, I could never justify spending Snap-On prices for tools. This level of tool, at this price, is just what I need to get the job done.
You said it all when you said "Harbor Freight filled in the void that Sears / Craftsman left" . It is the best ratchet you can buy for $40.00. The Icon line is engineered and designed in the USA and it shows, but its manufactured in Taiwan. Dont put it passed Harbor Freight to find a way to get this line made fully in the USA. If they do, they will be the next Craftsman USA.
Huge waste of money. The US General boxes are the real value. The Icons are most expensive than mint used Snap-On boxes which are WAY nicer than Icon boxes are. I do not see the market for those Icon boxes. Tool Vault and Extreme Toolboxes are identical quality to the Icon stuff for wayyyy cheaper.
@@prevost8686 apparently you haven't our dont work in a shop or you tool truck guys just dont like you. Icon boxes are for chumps and suckers. Only an idiot you pay that much for an icon box
Hachi-Roku Performance Group Shut up . I’ve worked professionally as a technician for 30 years with the last 15 years owning my own business. Let’s see your credentials. My guess is that you haven’t even seen one of the ICON boxes have you? Wait I’ll answer that. No you haven’t. When you’ve run your own business for 15 years then you can mouth off. My guess is that you’re never going to grow a set big enough to do that.
I've got a question about the recall if anyone knows. Will Harbor Freight send you a voucher even if you do not return the ratchet? I ask because my Harbor Freight did not have any ratchets of equal value to trade out and they only wanted to give a refund
Icon seems to be a quality middle priced tool for people who don’t need or can’t afford professional level tool truck tools. Hopefully they continue to develop the line.
At the risk of being called "shills" you guys unanimously approve! Duly noted. Thanks for the unbiased video. And free of profanity and patting yourself on the back. Thumbs up from me.
Can’t be a “shill” as some call it when you pay for the Tool. Harbor Freight didn’t send it to me it was purchased with my own money.
I own a lot of Snap On. But gotta say I bought a ICON 1/4 flex head and just WOW. It’s tiny, gets into impossible areas, and sooooo smooth! Im impressed. Snap on doesn’t even make a comparable ratchet that I’m aware of in this size.
Yes, Snap-on has a 1/4 inch flex head, basically exactly like the Icon, well the Icon is exactly like the Snap-on because the Snap-on made it first.
And the reaction from the tool trucks:
Hamilton - Oh Crap!!!!
Matco Micheal - I need to beat them on customer service.
Mr Joe - I wonder if they give bulk discounts.
Harbor Freight is a gold mine if you choose carefully. US General and Icon are a couple favorites.
I’ve got that Icon 3/8 swivel head ratchet, US General roll cart. Been real happy with those. I just do around the house type shit. Their little 1x30 belt grinder is pretty good too.
I have to say that was about as fair of a review as anyone could ever give. You can tell it was honest
You are right clay
Craftsman just isn’t the same as it used to be
For me it's the ideal home ratchet. With that said, the alternative I recommend is to buy a used tool truck ratchet second hand either off another tool truck (i.e. buying a Matco off a snap on truck) or pawn shop, then buy the ratchets rebuild kit for that specific ratchet. This way, you have the ability to rebuild the ratchet in the shop immediately and you get good quality especially starting out.
You guys are great at evaluating tools in a realistic approach, and unbiased. Your totally right about Harbor Freight filling the gap with Sears closing. This new line of tools is the topic of much skepticism and debate; however, you guys have broke this down, and simplified it to a conclusion. Not bad. Thank you. 👍
Worked as a millwright and I love icon tools from there wrenches to ratchets and torque wrenches definitely happy I invested even love there sockets
Nice review. I've been using my Mastercraft set for 25 yrs of torture and now that these icon tools came out I got the fever to upgrade. With the free 3/8 ratchet and the coupons coming out I'm doing pretty good price wise. Yeah I know there are other good brands too but for me Icon seems to fit me.Thanks
Good balanced review. The Icon ratchets definitely fill the void between cheap ratchets and tool truck tools. For someone like me that does there own basic to moderately difficult repairs and upgrades in the garage or driveway it’s pretty much the perfect middle of the road option.
I don't think the Icon will replace Snap-On, but I've been saying for while now HF is replacing the niche market that was Sears tool department. (Originally posted to the head to head video)
Icon ratcheting wrenches are really nice. I am using them at work and have brought my Gearwrench home for home use. The Icons ratcheting end reaches into nooks and crannies that a Gearwrench wouldn't have a chance to get to. I just really can't say enough how much I like them.
I would think they'd be good for a new tech just trying to get started. They could get 3/8 and 1/2 inch set for less than just a 3/8 set. They should last till you can afford snap-on or matco then make a good home set.
Clay, thank you for your review of the Icon rachet. It was great to see the working mans honesty of the tools at hand.
I agree I have the long 3/8 flex with the comfort grip and it’s been a good ratchet. Now I don’t mechanic for a living but I am always buy and selling cars and equipment so I use tools almost every day as well, not all day long but at least a few times a day. I did have the locking up issue at first but I did a little mechanical engineering on the pawl and it’s been pretty much trouble free since. For what it’s worth I have a 3/8 matco 88 locking flex that has the same issue with locking up. I think once they get the problem taken care of this is going to become a popular ratchet it does feel good in the hand and it actually feels quite solid. Obviously that’s my opinion but I’m sticking by it.
I agree they are really nice especially for the price.
I am older wrenched for 45 + years and now retired. What Harbor Freight actually is doing is as you stated filling the spot Sears had with the old USA Craftsman tools. I think that for me I wish we had them at my former employer as we never had a tool truck and had to buy tools on the market. Great to see that Harbor Freight is stepping up to plate. As a former aviation mechanic I can see a lot areas the 1/4" flex head ratchet would have been the cats meow
The quarter flex sucks the yoke is as thick as the head and it gives limited swing room it needs to be slimmed up
I love the honesty, I’m a huge Snap on fan but your right it’s refreshing that harbor freight is listening to its customers and actually making great tools for the price.
Great honest video. The best icon rachet video. If wild bill approves it must be great. The most wild bill has talked on camera in a long time.
Thank you for uploading these videos. Helps weekend car boys like me to see if it’s worth it. I’ll never buy snap on or something to that extent purely for the price. Love the honest reviews and can’t wait to get some ICON tools!
I recently bought the 1/4 inch icon rubber handle ratchet for around 35$ to 40$ compared to the High priced ones which I do own many good Snap-on and Matco ratchets but I did enjoy using the icon. I haven’t had any problems out of it so far, so for the price of the ratchet and money can be tight being a mechanic, I do agree with you and with Wally and bill I’d recommend it to. its harbor freights best ratchet they have in the store. But I do love my Matco and Snap-on always
I've been watching your channel for a while now and love it. I have seen lots of reviews about the ICON tools, but your review seems.the most honest and sincere to me. I do believe that I will get some for the house at least. And by the way.......keep up with the great videos!
Great choice for us weekend and hobbyist folks. Thanks for this review.
This helped me decide to get the Icon tools. I’m a new aircraft technician and is killing me to build a decent starting kit with snap on stuff. May be in the future I’ll be able to make it happen but for now this will do the work until I Walk the road a little more. And by the way those uniforms are badass. Thx for all your videos
Old school mechanic here, I had a few Snap-on drive rachets in the past, I heard of the Icon drive ratchet so I bought one put it to the test, and took it apart to compare it to my Snap-on. Gotta say first off that Icon ratchet can take a beating, and yes still functioning, I had a few Snap-on drive ratchets, I had 2 of them snapped. So later to compare Icon vs Snap-on, there mechanism are about the same. Overall I think Icon is about the same as Snap-on. Its just for me the Icon feels alot better then the Snap-on..and also the difference is the price. My personal opinion I would stick to the Icon. Better deal in pricing, better functionality then the Snap-on. In reality you just paying for the name and I guess cool design logo in craved on the Snap-on. But hay that's just my opinion. But overall cool review 👍
Warranty replacement of Craftsman tools at Lowes is easy.Find the replacement,taking that and the broken or worn tool to the customer service desk.Did this with two worn out 3/8 drive deepwell impact sockets,walked out with replacements.
Good to know, I figured it would be that simple. Everyone complaining they can't replace their tools hasn't even tried.
@@thisguy7254 not as easy as you think they told me to take my old 3/8 drive craftsman ratchet back to sears where i bought it...they kept saying you didnt purchase it here at the returns desk they wouldnt honor a warranty for a old broken craftsman tool.that wasnt purchased at lowes and this was at lowes in trussville alabama ...oh yeah later took it to ace hardware and they replaced it with a brand new one no questions asked and very friendly too... awesome review on this icon ratchet guys!
I was told to take the replacement tool and the broken or worn tool to the customer service desk.This was at the Lowe's in Muskegon,Mi
Thanks Clay. I especially respect your opinions since you have Bill and Wally to help you stress items under daily working conditions. I haven't needed to purchase any ICON tools but one of my most used ratchets is the Pittsburgh Pro long 3/8 flex head. I just don't fee bad for abusing my $20 ratchet! Ha Ha
Harbor Freight has certainly replaces Sears as my go to store for tools. Especially with their warranty they now have.
for sure, Sears quality started going down years ago...Thats all I use to buy in the 90's and early 2000's, I know you can buy craftsman now at lowes but I feel like the quality is about the same as HF anymore and those stores are everywhere near me and the return policy is on par with how sears use to be.
Clay really nailed that point exactly
I have had Icon ratchets for over a year. No problems what so ever.
From you guys this ratchet for the week end and hobby small mechanic it sounds like a great deal for $40.00. well done! I
I have Harbor Freight stuff and plenty of Snap on stuff in my box. It all serves a purpose. It is very nice to see a review that is not biased in a company's favor by somebody who has been given the product. Another channel that we all know of simply gives Icon glowing reviews and just bashes Snap on constantly. However, if the ratchet is binding...I'd return it. None my ratchets bind. Not even my $15 Pittsburgh or 50 year old SK Wayne ratchets.
I agree about the locking flexhead assessment!
I love the length of the ratcheting wrenches anti slip. I've been using them for oil changes.
I'm looking forward to your review of the icon ratchet wrenches. I played with them in the store the other day and was impressed. Feels like a quality tool, and it looks like you could get a ton of leverage with the length if the ratchet end holds up.
I finally took a look at the icon stuff yesterday. Nothing I really need right now but I was impressed.
If I were just starting out in the trade, I’d be all over these Icon tools. I’m especially attracted to the tool boxes. If I didn’t already have a wall full of boxes, I’d probably build me a set-up like JRC54 has with his snappy boxes. Hell, I might just do that anyway! 😝
I’m a Snap-on fanboy but I’m willing to give that icon ratchet a try. I was kinda sold when you took it onto the Snap-on truck and it performed well. Now after a few weeks and everyone in the shop is still happy with it gotta try it now for sure. Keep up the videos Sir and have a great day
I'm in the same boat and would be willing to try an Icon in my portable box. Nothing will ever replace a Snap on dual 80 to my hands though.
Wild Bill, Wally, and Clay Koon approved 3 for 3 lol... I think a lot of the people who are angry over this tool line would agree if they had an open mind and was willing to try but I think some people just don't want to get passed that. Are these tools perfect? No but man for the price versus the quality which equals value and dollar for dollar all the tools are great in my opinion. Good video Clay.
I love the icon combination wrenches the anti slip ones are the best wrenches to get from harbor freight.
I was checking that ratchet out the other day at the store. Was actually waiting for the review before I pulled the trigger. Guess I will be getting me one of those on the next trip. Thanks.
I'd prefer a locking flex head, too.
So I went ahead a bought a 1/2 flex head I own snap on Mac tools an in my opinion it works well keeps up with my "American Made" tools just fine. The only thing I did do to smooth it out and cut some of the tooth noise is I greased the inside of the head. 43.00 well spent in my book.
Ive definitely have been redoing all my old tools with icon. For yhe price im not complaining
Good point on the locking flex head! If they pull that off itd be a game changer. Great vid 🤙
There are other locking flex heads. I got the ez-red set and just bought the Walmart Stanley. You can take a look at the videos on my channel.
Your going to love what Icon is coming out with 👍 I'm just waiting for the next Icon you tube explosion when word gets out.
I like my icon ratchets I own a couple of them at work and they never let me down I enjoy using these icons at work being a starting out auto tech can’t afford the snap on as much as I’d like too but I will say the comfort grip icon 3/8 and 1/2 drive ones are comfy in the hand and the Daytona floor jacks they have are a plus too!
I totally agree with all of you. It's hard to beat for the money 👍👍
Love you vids keep them rolling!!! Honest opinions def appreciated.
Agree with you Sir, Snap-On Tools are the Best but since Harbor Frieght has stepped up their game in a MAJOR WAY with ICON Tools, I have been buying all ICON Tools now and filled my old Blue Point 4 draw tool cart.
Sold it and all my old craftsman Tools with it went and purchased the 44" US General box until I get the 73" ICON ToolBox in December if I can hold out that long? My 44" Box is almost full now with about 80% ICON Tools.
Send me a message if you plan on doing more ratchet videos, we will send you a few of ours. Thanks!
- Brandon
A mechanic worth his salt is one who can achieve the same end result with spending the least of his income to achieve his income. You are in business to make money and provide for your family. If you can do a great job while keeping more of your hard earned money, you are the smarter professional.
thank you for your opinion to the three of you guys
A fair review, hard to find nowadays. (I known this video is a year old) Too many are desperate to either praise or disparage them. With almost any less expensive tool, don’t assume it’s junk. Just try it out, see for yourself.
Rockin Roll. ☕️👍
I like my American made tools I’ll pay more to buy American made
I like to buy American made tools. Honestly though most don’t have a tool truck accessible. Also seriously snap on is ridiculously over priced. They take advantage of people.
@@joeframer9642 not all snap on is made in the USA
There's nothing wrong with that, damon. Everybody has their own likes and preferences.
tekton is the way to go as far as American made tools for a great price and good quality
Hell yea. Still trying to figure out why it costs so much more to get American made. I mean 150 vs 40 makes it hard.
They have stepped up on this line . Texton is another brand that stands up well for a budget mechanic.
I have used the 3/8ths ratchet, and the 1/2 in flex head. I like the flex head. The standard ratchet isn’t very good to me though. It switches directions occasionally and just doesn’t feel as quality as others.
Very happy to watch your review.... I would really like to get a hands on this Icon ratchet but unfortunately I live in Canada.... Maybe one day Harbour Freight will do business in Canada.
Good format for the review and long term use. Keep the good work.
À bientôt!
Can you buy harbor freight online
Clay, Gearwrench does have a locking flex head just like the Matco does. Same design, locks the same. I have not broke mine yet but I am pretty easy on my tools as well.
Mark gearwrench also sells an 84t flex for 34.99 from amazon, or advance auto parts has them for about the same. Been using my gearwrench stuff for two years. I did get my flex warrantied out they gave me a tech pro which is identical
@@elmoz71ls15 Thanks. I own both the 84 tooth locking flex head ratchets and also all 3 of the 120 xp's. I am trying to build up a nice tool collection for my son. I have just about handed all my craftsman sockets I bought 35 yrs ago to him already. My only problem I have buying the ratchets from Amazon is they arrive looking like they went through world war 3. All 6 ratchets I have bought from Amazon came all scratched up and some defects in the chrome. I also live in Canada and things here are just a little more expensive. But thanks for the comment.
Yup that's a big void but as older guys pass on the youngster will like .
What was sears???
Any one remember western auto ?
Car parts ,car repair ,lawn mower,window ac units all under one roof LOL
Yes they even sold guns at our western auto here where i got my first 22 rifle
I miss western auto, got my first socket set, go kart and .22 rifle from them as a kid (early 90’s)
I got a few of them. The 1/4" flex head is perfect for doing brake caliper bolts on a Cessna. I showed it to the Mac guy and even he was impressed.
Matthew Martin are you a A&P machanic?
@@tooltime6108 I am yes.
Matthew Martin I am looking into going into that area of work . Trying to talk to as many people as possible
@@tooltime6108 It's pretty fun. I'm still green. Just got my A+P back in May and am in my first real mechanic job. Still learning alot but I work under a master mechanic who has been an A+P for over 60 years. And, I get to play with airplanes all day. But the process of getting an A+P is hard and stressful no matter how you do it. I went to a 4 year university and became eligible to test that way (Also have a B.S. in Aerospace Maintenance Management). Military is another really good way to get your sign offs. Then you can take a short crash course (usually 10 days or so). Or get a job at a mom and pop shop working under the guide of another A+P who is willing to teach you and sign for your work. But if you really want to do it then don't wait. Find a school near you. Tech schools have alot of 2 year programs that will also allow you to test. Then the actual testing process is 3 written exams (Airframe, Powerplant, and Generals and all have to be done at an official FAA testing facility on a computer). The General is 60 questions. Other two are 100. You must pass all 3 with at least a 70. Then you have to pass an Oral and Practical test. If you do all three sections at the same time that is easily a 12-16 hour day. You and a Designated Maintenance Examiner and no one else. No notes. No nothing. You just come with your paperwork and the money to pay him. He provides everything else. He will ask you hundreds of questions that you must answer correctly from memory. Some are easy (What does a pressure regulator do? It regulates pressure) and some are very very difficult. Then he will give you probably 25 or so projects that you will have to perform to a satisfactory level. Then, you are FINALLY awarded an A+P. But, once it's yours it's yours for life. And at least for me I had people chomping at the bit trying to get me and I had to choose between 3 different job offers. Hope this helps and good luck!
I own a set of the icon long handle ratcheting wrenches (metric) that I use every day ... havent let me down yet.. there a good set for the money
I was told at Ace Hardware that Milwaukee is supposed to be replacing the craftsman. So eventually you won't see craftsman you will see a Milwaukee section.
I'm a diesel apprentice, and I don't make what the other guys in the shop make so harbor freight is well represented in my tool box. That being said, I wouldn't go past ratchets and maybe combination wrenches. Icon stuff like ratcheting wrenches are more expensive then better quality stuff like gear wrench. That said, as a happy owner of snap on ratchets, these icon ones are a good buy, even in a heavy duty setting.
i like your new shirt it go's with your tray good review
I know this is an old video but I would like to see your opinion on the no slip no skip combination wrenches that icon sales
Ok I'm glad you didn't bash my HF/ Icon rachet...
These Icon ratchets appear to be pretty good. I still would go with my Tekton 90ts, but these aren't a bad option at all.
good home tool. but for me nothing can replace the snap on comfort grip. love it too much. the real question is, how much do you have to spend, to get a ratchet you would honestly say is better.
Great honest review appreciate that
Great video as always Clay!
Very fair review . Non biased .
It was great to see that all three of you guys stayed open minded .
Thank you
I agree!
Good video y'all have a great day and stay safe 👍
Gonna have to do some HF shopping!👍🏼 Thanks Clay!! And I still have to pick me up a DM sticker!!!😬
Maybe you can get and test the ARES ratchets, I am wondering are they decent ratchets or just junk in a nice fancy foam tray
Look it's this simple for me, do I put a snap on, mac, matco, or cornwell tool set on my rig to do emergency repair to get me to a big truck shop or do I put icons on my rig well, which would hurt your wallet more if they were stolen?
I've been waiting for this review and I guess I'm going to go ahead and pick up a couple of ICON ratchets since y'all like them so much.
It was nice to go to Sears and check out the sales on American Made Craftsman tools. There is a huge void in that market, maybe Craftsman will come back home and we will have USA made tools again at a fair price.
They are currently building a plant in TX to make mechanics tools.
If it approved by you guys, I believe in it 👍 you put it through real world testing, and it held up. You didnt promote the crap out of it like "the bear" and talked trash about other tool companies like he did. You didnt create a video like the other guy on youtube that just breaks ratchets with pipes. Real world testing is what we wanted to see. 👍
Lol the bear is a joke. He says harbor freight power tools are better than dewalt and milwaukee. If I need advice on what fork to buy I'd ask him but as far as tools opinion from a working person in a trade is where to go
@@hachi-rokuperformancegroup3987 agreed. Anything HF according to him is beter than the other brands. My guess is he gets some sort of cut from sales his channel gets them. I dont watch his channel anymore.
@@-Jason-L no he still believes Hercules is the best. He also claims dewalts batteries are the most expensive and thats not true either. The guy is a hf fan boy and does tool videos with his tools not work everyday in a trade. Those tools don't last thats why you don't see that many cheap power tools.
I agree. I miss sears.
Miss those sears USA made tools, wish I had more.
John P Yeah, never thought much about it back then. When you needed a tool you just went to Sears.
Yep. Still have my craftsman tools I bought back in the 80's mixed in with my Snap on tools.
I wonder if we will ever see Icon in Canada ?
I can't afford snapon. And I still use my craftsman USA tools and kobalt. husky. tekton. and blue point. Mechanic tools
Nothing wrong with those tools. The best tools are those that do their intended job, reliably, and at a price that fits your budget. I’ve never asked my mechanic what kind of tools they use to fix my car. As a DIY’er, I could never justify spending Snap-On prices for tools. This level of tool, at this price, is just what I need to get the job done.
Blue point is snap on. Just older model. Cant remember when name changed
@@kevinbaker9389 It’s their economy line. Very good stuff
You said it all when you said "Harbor Freight filled in the void that Sears / Craftsman left" . It is the best ratchet you can buy for $40.00. The Icon line is engineered and designed in the USA and it shows, but its manufactured in Taiwan. Dont put it passed Harbor Freight to find a way to get this line made fully in the USA. If they do, they will be the next Craftsman USA.
Well said!
Should try the Milwaukee rachet also the same price love their rachet just not the square sockets, I'll have to try these
How is that Matco tool in the back round. The infrared tool
Their ICON toolboxes are impressive as well.
Impressively overpriced
Huge waste of money. The US General boxes are the real value. The Icons are most expensive than mint used Snap-On boxes which are WAY nicer than Icon boxes are. I do not see the market for those Icon boxes. Tool Vault and Extreme Toolboxes are identical quality to the Icon stuff for wayyyy cheaper.
Hachi-Roku Performance Group apparently you haven’t priced a Snap-On box
@@prevost8686 apparently you haven't our dont work in a shop or you tool truck guys just dont like you. Icon boxes are for chumps and suckers. Only an idiot you pay that much for an icon box
Hachi-Roku Performance Group Shut up . I’ve worked professionally as a technician for 30 years with the last 15 years owning my own business. Let’s see your credentials. My guess is that you haven’t even seen one of the ICON boxes have you? Wait I’ll answer that. No you haven’t. When you’ve run your own business for 15 years then you can mouth off. My guess is that you’re never going to grow a set big enough to do that.
Thank you all for given your opinion 👍👍
What is your take on pry bars regular or adjustable
I've got a question about the recall if anyone knows. Will Harbor Freight send you a voucher even if you do not return the ratchet? I ask because my Harbor Freight did not have any ratchets of equal value to trade out and they only wanted to give a refund
You didn’t take it in for the recall clay? I would take it in and get the replacement or how ever they are taking care of that.
I’m impressed with tools ; ‘like to buy some. The links are a little confusing. Is there a website I can jump into?
Agree 👍
Great review from you and the guys. hopefully they get the updated ones in stock again soon.
Now you know what I want for Christmas thanks Clay you the best 😅😅😅just kidding
I do wonder how they compare to like the Gearwrench 120 or the Tekton.
Would you ever review a tool box from them. I know it’s a little more than 40 dollars though. Just interested in seeing what you guys think
Funny you mention that we were just shooting a video on that same topic .........
Good morning sir!
What about the $150 ratchet wrench set?? I thought about buying them a few months ago but instead went with the extra long Matco metric set
I haven’t tried them
@@KoonTrucking appreciate the reply. God bless