I just bought the 2 gallon Fortress compressor and it is the best compressor I have ever owned. It is quiet, light weight, compact and it keeps up with my framing nailer. Definitely would recommend it.
The bear is always putting great stuff out there! Slowly but surely I’m growing into a tool reviewer myself 💪🏻🛠 Its so fun to share experiences and help other people find what’s best for them!
That Fortress 2 gallon compressor is VERY tempting. I have an old 13 gal compressor that is VERY LOUD and always blows the 20 amp breaker. Mostly, I use it for inflating tires, once in a blue moon it runs a nailer or paint sprayer. If the little Fortress will run a paint sprayer (maybe not, I think the 2.1 SCFM rating is not quite enough, except for a SMALL paint sprayer), I would gladly get one to replace the old yeller. I could also just retire the old one to the shed and only haul it out when I need to paint.
Here's a thought: Could we be seeing HF getting rid of their "good" brands altogether and just going "better" and "best"? I say that because they seem to be clearing out the Drill Master line already. And now it sounds like they may be doing the same to the Central Pneumatic line. Plus, they keep adding more and more "better" and "best" items to stores that are already cramped. The risk to moving "upscale" is that they are losing their cost advantage and they're getting beat on the warranties. I'll buy a cheap tool with a 90 day warranty, but I'm not spending hundreds of dollars on a tool that could be broken and worthless in 91 days. I've got a tool chest full of Pittsburgh and Quinn hand tools (all with lifetime warranties) but the only electric tool I have from HF is a Drill Master heat gun that I got for about $8 recently. And I'm not about to buy into their cordless tools because they have 7 separate incompatible battery platforms (12v & 20v Earthquake, 12v & 20v Hercules, 20v Bauer, 40v Lynxx, and now the 80v Atlas) and none of them are a complete lineup. To be honest, I don't think that HF even knows what their long-term plan is. They seem to be stuck between being carnival barkers with the constant sales and coupons while also trying to compete with the pro lines. I like going there, but they really lack a cohesive marketing strategy.
EBay has has a piece that fits on th cordless .allows it to accept different batteries.18 to 20 or dewalt to rigid.getting it for my old nicad porter cable.adapts it to for lithium ion
I don't know if I would put to much into their clearance items. I've seen things periodically marked as clearance and yet they never go away. I will always go with oil lubed compressors. Back in my twenties I worked for a contractor and oil less compressors lasted about a year, maybe two. The one oil compressor outlasted them all. Maintenance on them really isn't enough to change my idea because it's relatively minor compared to full on replacements.
I agree. I wince every time I turn the switch on. I’ve been thinking about biting the bullet and getting a Milwaukee 18volts cordless compressor. Much quieter.
As an auto mechanic I use a lot of high consumption air tools besides an impact. I use die grinders, needle scaler, Hard hitting air hammer, blow guns, grease guns, drills and a few other things I can't think of right now. Cordless tools are great for mobility in the field and working in the parking lot. Air tools are tried and true workhorses in the shop environment and probably won't be replaced anytime soon.
We have a big 15 HP Emglo at the shop, but use a Harbor Freight 120 volt oil type to keep air up most of the time. It keeps the system charged and with all the air storage we have here it will handle most jobs. We only run the Emglo when we need a lot of air. We really bought it just for our waste oil heater so we didn't have to run the big compressor, but it's been holding up well for about 4 years now
I got one of those 8 gal 150 psi compressors to put in my motor home. My front tires air up to 115 psi so I needed the 150 psi unit. I had the room in my RV and didn't want to spend $280 for the Viair portable unit. With the 8 gallon tank it does a great job. I was somewhat baffled by the directions stating to run the unit 30 minutes prior to using it. I guess it needs to heat up and seat the Teflon coated piston rings. But so far so good. And like you say with intermittent use it is the way to go. My shop compressor though is a 60 gallon oiled unit.
I have a new use for my shop air compressor. Last year I purchased a $200 plasma cutter on eBay. It works fantastic and uses compressed air to blow out the cut material. Cheaper, cleaner and so much easier to use than an oxy-acetylene torch.
I picked up a Husky 60 gal with a 3 year warranty for $480 tax included. 60 gal compressor at harbor freight is $850 with a 90 day warranty. On top of that I seen a Dewalt 60 gal at Tractor Supply for $400 with I think a 60 day warranty.
Not a very good choice for your comparisons. The Harbor Freight is a two stage while the others you mentioned are single stage. The SCFM is higher on the HF version by 40-50%. A comparable compressor would be an Ingersoll Rand 60 gal twin cylinder for $750 or the 80 gal Husky 3 cylinder for $900. IR has lower air capacity due to lower pressure and 1 SCFM less but is cheaper from a brand with product support while the Husky is 1 SCFM less and is more expensive but has higher air capacity. The HF 60 gal compressor does though really need to drop in price to be competitive. I will take the hit on a slightly lower pressure and SCFM to go with an established brand with product support such as Ingersoll Rand at a lower cost any day of the week.
I’ve Got The Husky Too Bought it as a New Return 375.00 Out The Door Has Not Let me Down in The 4 Years I’ve Owned it !!! I Ran My 2 Bay Shop off it 👨🏼🔧🧰😊👍🏼
Thank you so much Mr Red The Tool Bear. This is super helpful information for me as a DIY'er. Your advice regarding what is best for entry level DIY people like me is much appreciated.. I never miss one of your videos now.
You said it right... The central pneumatic 29 gal. I'd truly a BEAST 💪 I have it and handles everything I throw at it .. The smaller oned I think they will phase out ... But I hope the keep the BEAST around..
Why are you ignoring the lacking sfcm of these newer McGraw compressors? None have the cfm@90psi to run significant air tools, including even air impact wrenches.
For use around the home air tools are not bad. Use with big air wrench for lug nuts, painting stuff large and small (I use my small models airbrush with a secondary regulator), also a metal nibbler, a metal shear, and a 4 in grinder. May get a plasma cutter in the future. Super required when changing valve seals, get some pressure in the cylinder to hold the valves up.
Well, I can tell you the 8 Gallon McGraw and the Husky 8 gallon are the same compressor. Both 150 psi and the same layout. You could take parts off one and put it on the other. Same handle and location, same on/off, same basic plastic cover, and well you get the idea. Harbor Freight got tired of competing with themselves and decided to be at the same price point as Home Depot/Lowes. The Husky is $159 with a 2 year warranty, vs. the McGraw at $149 and a 90 day warranty ($125 coupon). So how much does the 2 year warranty from HF cost on that compressor. Are you really saving anything over Home Depot in that instance? The point is, Harbor Freight is getting out of the low end tool game and wants the same margins as Home Depot/Lowes/Menards. The days of cheap tools are coming to an end.
I'll never get rid of my compressor. I bought it before battery powered tools existed. Most of my air tools are Ingersoll Rand. I have 150 feet of Goodyear air hose (that was purchased from HF). This air compressor has already outlasted two cordless drills. Sometimes I wish I had a battery powered impact gun, but then I see the prices and change my mind.
the thing is though the battery ones are a lot heavier and if you have a lot of say base boards or crown molding to put in your arms wear out. with air even though your tethered its not a problem. i flip homes with my uncle and yea if its just something quick grab the battery one but if not grab the air
I use a small oil-less compressor for blowing out my RV water lines, and a 8 gallon oiled for airing up my truck and rv tires. Can't do that at the gas station air pump with their weak compressor...gotta have your own to get 80 psi. The black HF 2hp 8 gallon is perfect for that.
Be smart and go to home Depot, Lowe's, tractor supply, or Menards or any other big box store and pay about the same amount BUT actually get a full 1 year or more warranty. Problem with harbor freight now days is their prices are about the same as anywhere else for most things, but only come with a 90 day warranty, unless you pay extra for their extended warranty, but again, your paying more for low quality stuff. Just my thoughts. It used to make more sense when you were paying 1/2 the price for a lot less warranty, but not anymore.
With some of the new items coming out maybe they're wanting to open up some floor space. Just my opinion but I think they have to many different lines anyway.
They should just drop all the 2 and 3 star products and stop offering the same exact item with multiple sku numbers that should open up some floor space.
Been running a craftsmen 30 gallon oilless 175psi compressor for 17 years. Doesn’t see a lot of use but it’s only needed a run capacitor replaced and that was early on. It will run all but the most air heavy tools pretty good. I’d say the die grinder I have is the only tool that makes it work to keep up. (Impact, ratchet, die grinder and air hammer) if you have the room, I’d definitely go for the biggest tank you can afford.
I agree, 2D CAD was the fundamental program we learned as an intro to CATIA. it was nice having the access to build in 3D for projects. It was nice to import other features to check for fit and functions. It was overkill, but I modeled my 30 X 50 shop before I built it. It was a good practical exercise..
I bought a vertical “oil free” from Lowe’s several years ago. After about two months of use the piston had a major manufacturing malfunction and the motor blew! Not a fan of oil free...
skliros adding a little oil and basic maintenance is not a bad thing. I think a better way to evaporate tank moisture would be a plus. The drain is always a problem..
As much as I like my Milwaukee electric tools I don't think I could ever get rid of my air compressor The tools are cheaper and last longer and I don't have to keep buying batteries every couple years
They are only cheaper because you don't pay attention to your bills. Running pneumatic tools costs you a shitton more compared to electric since compressors are extremely inefficient to power compared to batteries and electric motors.
As long as there are still men in America, there will always be a need for a compressor. As soon as my new shop is built to replace the one that burnt down the first thing I will buy is a compressor. Probably a Kobalt 2-stage unit which is made by Hausfeld=Campbell. They are just under $600. It will replace my 60 gallon Craftsman that I bought at the turn of the century. I had it bolted to a moving dolly so that I could move it for maintenance and cleaning. And no it didn't roll around on it's own. Modified it to run through a transmission cooler, then water and oil traps before filling my tank with clean dry air. I plumbed in a ball valve from the bottom of the tank that I could reach for in case I need to decompress the tank and put a ball valve before going to the quick disconnect so that when it's not being used it doesn't drain down from leaking HF quick disconnects. I wish someone would come out with a compressor with all these bells and whistles. I have no need for a small compressor for small jobs as this one was always pressurized and ready to go. The dry air and large CFM capability ran my blast cabinet, plasma cutters, paint guns and die grinders/cutoff wheels. Batteries will never replace those tools. I actually think those tools will become more common as computers get better and cheaper. It's only a matter of time before HF offers CNC plasma tables. As far as oil free compressors, I have no experience with them in a shop setting, so I don't understand the fear. I'm in the dental industry and pretty much all dental compressors nowadays are oil free. And they run all day 5 days a week and last a long time. The reason they get replaced is because dentists are cheap and abuse them. They always get undersized compressors so they are overworked, never get the air filters changed and usually run them in a room that gets too hot and dirty. A cool and clean compressor is a happy compressor. I would love to have an oil free compressor so I don't have to have an oil trap.
I've got that 2 gallon Forteess on my shopping list. But I may have to wait a while just to see if they do come out with something even better. I only use one to blow up my bike tires...so it's not like its something I really need. I have a track pump and that works just fine. Now what I would really like to see is for the HF to come out with a Great 12v compressor. The options they have for roadside emergency really are very lacking. Even if they took the 1 gallon Fortress and made a 12v option available for it. That would blow everything else on the market away. I would buy one and I know a lot of overlanders, 4x4.and off roaders that would jump at this.
Chicago Pneumatics lol poor bear's tongue slipped out @11:57 I have the 29gal, it is a beast. And it has an hour meter! There are still some things you still can't do with electric tools that air comes in handy for.
I have the same compressor. I use this thing a lot repairing my car and stuff around the house. I think out of all the compressors at HF this one is the one to get. The drain on the bottom is a no issue for me. I just reach under with my bear claws and open it up. Ive had mine about 2 years now.
Ugh, he slipped way more than that. He said "CHICAGO" virtually every time instead of "Central". Once, twice, okay, but more three times or more...bad bear. Baaaaad bear.
HF sorts their items in the stores into areas that don't make sense to me. Tap & Die sets are always in the "automotive" aisle near the front, not by the lone tap handles at the back or drill bits and accessories on the side of the store. They're all laid out roughly in this way for me around here.
@@Aubreykun the 2 stores here...well havent been to old springdale store since new rogers store but layout is similiar from what i remember. the rogers one is bigger and longer so they have center aisle displays for big stuff, jacks, welders, cabinets, etc in every aisle where as other store only had that stuff on each end.
@@SgtJoeSmith Yep, the big stuff seems to vary (probably based on the building layout for moving heavy stuff) but as I remember you can always find item X near items Y and Z.
Hello. I have that 8 gallon McGraw compressor. I use it everyday in the shop . I love it. It has lots of power and it fills up real fast. I might buy another one and keep it the garage for home use.
I don’t understand what’s wrong with oil free. My 33 gallon craftsman compressor is oil free and I bought it back in 2008. I’ve used it for paint, pneumatic tools, roofing and whatever else you would need one for. By the way make your own drain valve. I just used some brass tubing and a ball valve
The thing is oiled, belt drive compressors can be used hard for decades (functionally forever if well cared for, maybe replace a head gasket here and there), whereas even the best oil free definitely have an expiration date approaching at some point and there's nothing you can do about it. They might be better than they were (and quieter, they used to be extremely loud whereas a belt drive is quite reasonable) but it's also more expensive to get similar specs to a belt drive and they may never have the longevity. And frankly the maintenance on an oiled compressor is pretty minimal.
Those fortress are really nice. Have an old compressor hardly use it with all the battery operated tools. Not unless your running a shop or using it professionally not really needed.
I suspect they are getting rid of the low end line and will move forward with just the McGraw and Fortress lines. It wouldn't surprise me if they start doing that with some of their other tool lines. They establish the middle brand as being better than the cheap lower quality versions for just a bit higher price, then they drop the lower quality line. Their markup percentage is higher and they continue to improve their reputation for quality. They are slowly moving away from 'the place you go for cheap good enough tools' to 'the place you go for decent quality tools at a reasonable price'. Sure, you can go to one of the big home improvement stores, but then you have a lot longer to walk and good luck finding anyone to help if you don't know right where something is. I think you hit the nail on the head so to speak when you said they seem to be trying to edge into what Craftsman used to be when they were basically a store within a store at Sears. So far they seem to be making all the right moves to pull it off too.
Good video bear, a little bit of a rant you came back to target. When it comes to air i go grizzly or go home. The size of my air compressor is limited by the electrical available, use very little cordless mostly air and a few corded. Keep the video coming.
Seems HF may be doing away with the old names, and coming up with a total refresh on everything. A lot of those old chicago this and central that, well...just sounds dated IMO
I hope someone at HF HQ has studied the demise of Radio Shack. This reminds me of the Good-Better-Best marketing theme that they used for a while for audio equipment. And then they sold just cell phones and went under.
Personally, I wouldn't touch either one of those 8 gallon compressors. I have the black C P 10 gallon unit and it CAN run my Earthquake impact when I need it to. Yes, it cycles a lot because it only has a 10 gallon tank, but, if you let it catch up, it has enough airflow to run an impact. I also have the red 3 gallon pancake compressor that I use for hobby airbrush work. I had to do a minor plumbing project to adapt it to airbrush fittings but it works perfectly. If/when my C P 10 gallon portable unit dies, I hope that the black 29 gallon upright is still available. If it is, I'll rearrange a few things in my shop so that I can use it for smaller projects without having to fire up my big 2 stage...who wants to do that just to knock off a few lug nuts for a tire rotation? As far as my lil 3 gallon pancake buddy...I've been using it for airbrush work for over 5 years and it's never let me down. As long as they're available, I'll keep buying them. I might even buy a stock pile of them now since they're forever on sale!
I was planning to buy a Fortress 2hp, 27 gal model for $399. I’m in NYC, and I don’t have a car. Yes, there is a Hf in the city. I don’t like bothering friends for things like this, so I would have it shipped. So I went to checkout. ??? They want $96.43 to ship it, and over $44 tax. Well, I backed out of that. I have a small Cal Air .6 Hp model for my powder coat guns, and it works very well. Very quiet and reliable. So I decided to go to eBay and see what they were selling there. Their 2 Hp 5.3cfm @90psi 20 gal model was going for $429, free shipping! $34 tax. But here’s the kicker for me. The HF is 78db, which is still pretty damn loud, particularly in a small shop. The Cal Air is 70db. That’s one tenth as loud, as 10db is one tenth. 3db is half as loud. It was supposed to come within 10 days, but arrived 3 days after I ordered it. Now, yes, this is 20 gal, vs 27 for the Fortress. Not a really big deal. It has a tiny bit higher air rating than the Fortress, which means nothing. But it really is so much quieter! And the compressor is fully protected all around. So since we talked about how HF is directly competing with Cal Air with Fortress in the smaller models, I’m wondering what, if anything, they will do about this?
Plasma cutter needs lotsa air, as does a sand blaster. I have the Kobalt 30 gallon (I don't think they make it anymore), meets my needs. I think I paid $375, 5 or 6 years ago.
That 21 gal McGraw is a godsend. It's much quieter than my dad's Craftsman and excellent on space. I only have a 1.5 car garage so this thing sits perfect in the corner with a nice long cord. Runs an air hammer just fine. No good electric alternatives for that.
My compressor is so old it was made in the USA. Campbell Hansfield. (spelling?) Bought it at Menards in the mid '90's. My real complaint is too many brands names at HF, pick three and use them for everything!
Some folks make the mistake of not checking the cfm on compressors..they just snatch it up based on the psi.. then wonder why they have to stop after every other nail for the compressor to catch up again. I have seen some out there on the market that deliver limited cfm and still rather pricey..
Same here. I really need Jig saw and I grabbed the Bauer model 4-5 times and I put it back right of way, nope I want Hercules jig saw 😂 ... I don’t even know if Hercules jig saw is coming , but I’ll keep dreaming and waiting 🍸
I mentioned on the forum that the Chicago Electric 12 inch miter saw is on clearance now too, so this raises further questions about what HF is up to. I suspect they're trying to transition away from their "good" tools altogether. It's a shame, though, because we've seen how badly they have mismanaged and continue to mismanage the Hercules line. There is also the problem of brand confusion (and profusion) within the store. Just among power tools and not including the "good" brands you have Hercules, Bauer, Earthquake, Lynxx, Atlas, Admiral, and Central Machinery. Bauer is the "better" brand when compared to Hercules and Warrior but is the "good" when compared to Lynxx and Atlas? That relationship may be the giveaway, as there is no rhyme or reason to it unless we assume the "good" brands are going away.
Might depend on how much they have in stock and where, or if they're having issues with the replacement. I saw they had the stick welder in clearance for months upon months - but also the same ones sat in the clearance shelf in the physical stores because no one wanted to buy it. Same with the giganic 20" pittsburgh (or maybe pitt pro? Don't remember) tongue and groove pliers, which lasted til the doyle ones came out.
The thing with me on these compressors is the output will they run a die grinder or a good sized air sander? A lot of them will not so if you are a metal worker?
Gotta have a compressor for doing auto work. I'm looking to upgrade my shop compressor so my overhead air lines have greater psi. The 21 gallon doesn't cut it for impact wrenches.
I'v bought 4 small airless compressors for ease of transport that I could run off of an inverted or generator while away from my shop. That includes Sears and others. I will have to check out the smaller ones from Harbor Freight as the other were all name brands and did not live up to the hype they used to sell them.
Bear, it may be pure obsolescence? That the Fortress and McGraw lines simply uped the game that the older central numatic products are no longer selling. Market wants queit compressors with performance and would pay a little more for it than just living with the old tech?
I have the 29 gallon man that thing is nice so glad I bought one before there gone I wonder if they will make one In a fortress brand but none of those are oil compressors so mabye that model will stay and there just clearing floor space
I have had mine for 8+ years now. Re did the drain at the bottom shortly after I got it and replaced the air regulator a few months ago. It has been the rockstar of my garage love it.
I bought the Kobalt Quiet Tech... oil-less compressor and I Love it....26 gallons of Ingersol Rand air hammer slapping good-ness... 5 year warranty... fills quickly.. and Quietly..... I have over a dozen Rigid cordless tools but I do need a compressor... I don't need one frequently just from time to time....🖖
Earlier this year I finally broke down and bought a new compressor. I bought a 5HP Eaton and its fantastic. At 19 CFM at 100PSi its a Beast. It pushes my blast cabinet with out too much effort, and its super quiet at 73dB. Its in a different league than these compressors and you pay for it at $2k. Its the last one I'll ever buy though and I can do any air job i want.
Just bought the CP 29 gallon air compressor. $380 and bought the ext 1 year warranty for $75. Oiled, twin piston compressor (replaceable) and the electric motor is a Marathon Electric (replaceable). Quite possibly as good as name brand belt driven oiled compressors for hundreds of dollars less. My only bitch is that it was a sealed from the factory box, and had no compressor oil bottle in it. The compressor has oil in it, but its just below the low level. Back to HF for a bottle tomorrow. But just visually inspecting this unit, it appears to punch well above its weight class.
Lots of roofers and framers still use air compressors for the nail guns. That may change in the not distant future, but some folks won't change until the price is right.
Just purchased 20 gallon, 135 PSI oil bath air compressor. I have not plugged it in yet and I see 3 problems. The tank is not ASME certified, It runs on 125V only, was told I had to purchase pump oil separate. In Calif you cannot use an air compressor in a business unless tank is ASME certified. motors normally run better on 220 than 125 Volts. They had no compressor oil in stock, great business plan. There is a bottle of oil packed with compressor. none of this info is available until you unpack unit at home. On the positive side Harbor Freight is not my circus.
Been running a 6.0hp oil -less craftsman 33 gal. for 25+/- yrs. Never had an issue (knock on wood). Motor runs a minimum of 3 hrs a week. Best $200 I ever spent.
Assuming you have not done one, or I missed it somehow, could you do a video on automotive floor jacks from Harbor Freight? We are on a fixed (retirement) income and I want to do some of the less technical work on our two vehicles, a 2014 RAM 1500, crew cab, 4X4, Hemi and a 2005 Chevy Colorado Z71 4X4. I ask because I'm in my mid sixties and don't need a truck of any size falling on my chest, legs or any other valued body part(s)….And if possible, what about their jack stands? Old folks need to know these things. Thanks for ALL your excellent videos especially those covering Harbor Freight products. Keep up the great work.
The yellow Daytona Jack is the best they have and it's reasonably priced with coupon. It's a SnapOn knockoff and there are many positive reviews on it. The reason I suggest this one for you is because of it maximum lifting height, the cheaper jacks don't lift high enough when working on 4x4's
@@skrsys Thanks for your kind reply. We live pretty close to a Harbor Freight store/distribution center and the information you provided is very helpful.
As skrsys pointed out the yellow Daytona is the best. HOWEVER, it is almost the most expensive. I have Pittsburgh low profile jack and it works just fine. I have a 2016 Ram quad cab 2x2 with the hemi and it lifts it just fine. They have 3, 6, and 12 ton jack stands and they work fine. I know large chain tire shops that use them every day.
@@denoftools Thanks for taking the time to reply to a question that had nothing to do with the above video but the thought occurred to me while watching and listing to it believe it or not.. Take care and keep up the great videos you produce.
I purchased a cheap HF compressor a couple of years ago. Big mistake. Big MISTAKE! It takes what seems like several minutes to air up a car tire. Im talking adding 10 lbs of pressure.
Is Harbor Freight moving to a more quality based model vs. Bottom price model? Now that Sears is gone, are the retailers not scrambling for there share of the market. People looking for a good value.
It looks like they are going for the fortress compressors being portable job site units and the McGraw being the shop compressors and not having a third option.
Those new McGraw is just upgraded black ones. If you really look its the same motor and compressor bolted on it. On the 20 gal anyway. Just some better eye candy. Think McGraw is to replace the black ones.
Bear we need a video on Chicago Pneumatic. Not to be confused with Harbor Freight's central pneumatic. I've used Ingersoll Rand Snap-on Harbor Freight Craftsman and Campbell Hesse are tools and none of them compared to my Chicago Pneumatic Air Tools.
Chicago Pneumatic stubby impact out performs everything I've compared it against. Earthquake stubby was anemic in comparison, but so was a full size IR 1/2" impact.
With their lack of good coupons and hardly any freebies and everything being slightly marked up in price, I think HF is starting to try to upgrade its image. The problem is, there's TONS of great competition and usually the tools are equal to or better. For pros, no flat rate tech can take off and just "go warranty out" hand tools or whatever cheap stuff they bought at HF. My techs work from 7am to 10pm most days to earn a good living. Harbor Freight has its place for home guys, but I think they are trying to go way upscale with mid priced stuff. Now go over to Home Depot, Lowes, or Menards and suddenly you see a competitively priced Kobalt line of 24v tools with a bunch more than that Hercules stuff. But as for 11" zip ties for 1.99 with coupon, HF blows it out of the water. I've used millions and the 12.00 zip ties at Napa are no better. They are gonna price themselves out of the market with this stuff. I know several roofers and they aren't shopping for a compressor at HF. Home guys don't need to pay 229 for a small compressor. The home guys (which is probably 95+% of their business, can go over to tractor supply or Lowes and get name brand stuff cheaper. The pros in my auto business will always call the tool truck and they come by in a day or two and handle warranties in two seconds while the techs are still at work making money. They also let them borrow a super expensive special Socket or custom tool that they'll never use again for free rather than having them buy a 500 dollar special Socket. That service and saved time is what pros need. Not to go keep taking time off of work to buy a impact Socket that keeps cracking just because it was cheap with a "lifetime warranty". I love HF for certain things. I even have the 29 gallon black 150psi air compressor in my own garage at home. But if that gets replaced with a 450 dollar "better brand with similar specs", I wouldn't even considering shopping for one at HF. Home guys and small timers are all of their business. And there's NOTHING WRONG with that. That 39.95 Bauer hammer drill I bought last weekend to drill 4 holes in my garage floor lasted about that long. 4 holes. Hardly turns works at all now. It's still HF. Zip Ties, small tools, and free coupons. Now that's starting to change. Rant over! Sorry!
@@denoftools * I hope for success for them. They're definitely going through some changes. I also don't like seeing snap on or any company fail and have people out of work. I'll have to check or out. Thanks!
Paint it a different color, stick a new label on it, cost $5 bucks more to make, charge $40 more. This is the new HFT mantra. The diamondback tile saw is a perfect example.
I’m an Air Powered Mechanic 👨🏼🔧🧰 Compressors Are Here Too Stay 😊👍🏼 I Don’t Do Electric Tools as Batteries Fail and Cost a Pretty Penny and Batteries are Incompatible Between Brands 😐😳😐 Air Is Universal 😊👍🏼
If you are looking at the HF 29 gallon also look at the eastwood 29 gallon. I have the EW one and I think it is the same but it it $10 cheaper and does go on sale some times. I got It for 299
A couple of months back Harbor Freight had the impact screwdriver on both the "new" and "clearance" page at the same time. I quit trying to figure that out.
If you use any air tools for more than five minutes then you want the high cfm cubic feet per minute because you will run the tank out quick and it cannot keep up with your tools
Does your comment include...like, airbrush psi pulls for more than 5 mins? Or just the heavier handtools? I'm looking around for a "quiet" larger than "hobby shop" size compressor I can use in an apartment to airbrush paint model trains, cars & trucks anytime I find time, without pissing off the neighbors. That "excited cat purring" noise sounds like just the one I want...
I dunno, but neither of the Harbor Freight stores within 60 miles had their 29 gallon central pneumatic compressor, I found out by driving there to get one.
Joe Smith's oiled compressor can do 200 psi. 125psi used to be max for consumer level but now companies going higher. In reality you'll never need over 100 psi. It's the scfm that you need to pay attention too
I hope they keep the central pneumatic tools around. I have the oil less pancake that you can almost always find in the 40 dollar range. For a guy that needs a compressor around the house less than 20 times a year I love that noisy compressor. Plug it in, cover your ears, and go
I just bought the 2 gallon Fortress compressor and it is the best compressor I have ever owned. It is quiet, light weight, compact and it keeps up with my framing nailer. Definitely would recommend it.
The bear is always putting great stuff out there! Slowly but surely I’m growing into a tool reviewer myself 💪🏻🛠 Its so fun to share experiences and help other people find what’s best for them!
Torqued Up you do some great stuff bro! Keep it up!
I’ve enjoyed you so much since I subscribed! Your latest Knipex vs Channellock vs Irwin was packed with neat info!
Greg Outdoorsman It’s one of his best!
Johnny Dangerously it sure is! Definitely growing in his film making!
Thank you guys! I do my best to bring honest reviews and helpful insights!
That Fortress 2 gallon compressor is VERY tempting. I have an old 13 gal compressor that is VERY LOUD and always blows the 20 amp breaker. Mostly, I use it for inflating tires, once in a blue moon it runs a nailer or paint sprayer. If the little Fortress will run a paint sprayer (maybe not, I think the 2.1 SCFM rating is not quite enough, except for a SMALL paint sprayer), I would gladly get one to replace the old yeller. I could also just retire the old one to the shed and only haul it out when I need to paint.
Here's a thought: Could we be seeing HF getting rid of their "good" brands altogether and just going "better" and "best"? I say that because they seem to be clearing out the Drill Master line already. And now it sounds like they may be doing the same to the Central Pneumatic line. Plus, they keep adding more and more "better" and "best" items to stores that are already cramped.
The risk to moving "upscale" is that they are losing their cost advantage and they're getting beat on the warranties. I'll buy a cheap tool with a 90 day warranty, but I'm not spending hundreds of dollars on a tool that could be broken and worthless in 91 days. I've got a tool chest full of Pittsburgh and Quinn hand tools (all with lifetime warranties) but the only electric tool I have from HF is a Drill Master heat gun that I got for about $8 recently.
And I'm not about to buy into their cordless tools because they have 7 separate incompatible battery platforms (12v & 20v Earthquake, 12v & 20v Hercules, 20v Bauer, 40v Lynxx, and now the 80v Atlas) and none of them are a complete lineup.
To be honest, I don't think that HF even knows what their long-term plan is. They seem to be stuck between being carnival barkers with the constant sales and coupons while also trying to compete with the pro lines. I like going there, but they really lack a cohesive marketing strategy.
EBay has has a piece that fits on th cordless .allows it to accept different batteries.18 to 20 or dewalt to rigid.getting it for my old nicad porter cable.adapts it to for lithium ion
@@wildonutube what model porter cable
@@dustinpomeroy8817 18volt nicad
@@wildonutube thanks,but that really doesn't tell me anything
@@dustinpomeroy8817 its older ones not sure what your looking for I don't have a model # they're all worn off
I don't know if I would put to much into their clearance items. I've seen things periodically marked as clearance and yet they never go away.
I will always go with oil lubed compressors. Back in my twenties I worked for a contractor and oil less compressors lasted about a year, maybe two. The one oil compressor outlasted them all. Maintenance on them really isn't enough to change my idea because it's relatively minor compared to full on replacements.
I have a 21-gallon vertical compressor and it's like standing next to a plane taking off when it's on.!
I agree. I wince every time I turn the switch on. I’ve been thinking about biting the bullet and getting a Milwaukee 18volts cordless compressor. Much quieter.
They also discontinued the 60 gallon 2 stage compressor that was very popular and had great reviews. No sign of a replacement yet
As an auto mechanic I use a lot of high consumption air tools besides an impact. I use die grinders, needle scaler, Hard hitting air hammer, blow guns, grease guns, drills and a few other things I can't think of right now. Cordless tools are great for mobility in the field and working in the parking lot. Air tools are tried and true workhorses in the shop environment and probably won't be replaced anytime soon.
"Excitedly purring cat", Best description ever!
We have a big 15 HP Emglo at the shop, but use a Harbor Freight 120 volt oil type to keep air up most of the time. It keeps the system charged and with all the air storage we have here it will handle most jobs. We only run the Emglo when we need a lot of air. We really bought it just for our waste oil heater so we didn't have to run the big compressor, but it's been holding up well for about 4 years now
I got one of those 8 gal 150 psi compressors to put in my motor home. My front tires air up to 115 psi so I needed the 150 psi unit. I had the room in my RV and didn't want to spend $280 for the Viair portable unit. With the 8 gallon tank it does a great job. I was somewhat baffled by the directions stating to run the unit 30 minutes prior to using it. I guess it needs to heat up and seat the Teflon coated piston rings. But so far so good. And like you say with intermittent use it is the way to go. My shop compressor though is a 60 gallon oiled unit.
I have a new use for my shop air compressor. Last year I purchased a $200 plasma cutter on eBay. It works fantastic and uses compressed air to blow out the cut material. Cheaper, cleaner and so much easier to use than an oxy-acetylene torch.
“Take a bite out of crime” McGraw. Nice 1980’s-90’s reference.
Herencia 2J scruff mcgruff Chicago IL 60652 lol at least that’s what I remember it being
Last week I drive by the company that penned McGruff the crime Dog in Upstate NY! Lol small world
I picked up a Husky 60 gal with a 3 year warranty for $480 tax included. 60 gal compressor at harbor freight is $850 with a 90 day warranty. On top of that I seen a Dewalt 60 gal at Tractor Supply for $400 with I think a 60 day warranty.
Not a very good choice for your comparisons. The Harbor Freight is a two stage while the others you mentioned are single stage. The SCFM is higher on the HF version by 40-50%. A comparable compressor would be an Ingersoll Rand 60 gal twin cylinder for $750 or the 80 gal Husky 3 cylinder for $900. IR has lower air capacity due to lower pressure and 1 SCFM less but is cheaper from a brand with product support while the Husky is 1 SCFM less and is more expensive but has higher air capacity.
The HF 60 gal compressor does though really need to drop in price to be competitive. I will take the hit on a slightly lower pressure and SCFM to go with an established brand with product support such as Ingersoll Rand at a lower cost any day of the week.
I’ve Got The Husky Too Bought it as a New Return 375.00 Out The Door Has Not Let me Down in The 4 Years I’ve Owned it !!! I Ran My 2 Bay Shop off it 👨🏼🔧🧰😊👍🏼
Thank you so much Mr Red The Tool Bear. This is super helpful information for me as a DIY'er. Your advice regarding what is best for entry level DIY people like me is much appreciated.. I never miss one of your videos now.
You said it right... The central pneumatic 29 gal. I'd truly a BEAST 💪 I have it and handles everything I throw at it .. The smaller oned I think they will phase out ... But I hope the keep the BEAST around..
One of the most important issues is the scfm output comparison. The 8 gal central pneumatic puts out more than the McGraw 20 gal. Duh
Why are you ignoring the lacking sfcm of these newer McGraw compressors? None have the cfm@90psi to run significant air tools, including even air impact wrenches.
For use around the home air tools are not bad. Use with big air wrench for lug nuts, painting stuff large and small (I use my small models airbrush with a secondary regulator), also a metal nibbler, a metal shear, and a 4 in grinder. May get a plasma cutter in the future. Super required when changing valve seals, get some pressure in the cylinder to hold the valves up.
Well, I can tell you the 8 Gallon McGraw and the Husky 8 gallon are the same compressor. Both 150 psi and the same layout. You could take parts off one and put it on the other. Same handle and location, same on/off, same basic plastic cover, and well you get the idea. Harbor Freight got tired of competing with themselves and decided to be at the same price point as Home Depot/Lowes. The Husky is $159 with a 2 year warranty, vs. the McGraw at $149 and a 90 day warranty ($125 coupon). So how much does the 2 year warranty from HF cost on that compressor. Are you really saving anything over Home Depot in that instance?
The point is, Harbor Freight is getting out of the low end tool game and wants the same margins as Home Depot/Lowes/Menards. The days of cheap tools are coming to an end.
Chip B Walmart is picking up the cheep tool slack lol
Then there's no reason to shop harbor freight then...
@@skliros9235 lol thats true.
I'll never get rid of my compressor. I bought it before battery powered tools existed. Most of my air tools are Ingersoll Rand. I have 150 feet of Goodyear air hose (that was purchased from HF). This air compressor has already outlasted two cordless drills. Sometimes I wish I had a battery powered impact gun, but then I see the prices and change my mind.
the thing is though the battery ones are a lot heavier and if you have a lot of say base boards or crown molding to put in your arms wear out. with air even though your tethered its not a problem. i flip homes with my uncle and yea if its just something quick grab the battery one but if not grab the air
I use a small oil-less compressor for blowing out my RV water lines, and a 8 gallon oiled for airing up my truck and rv tires. Can't do that at the gas station air pump with their weak compressor...gotta have your own to get 80 psi. The black HF 2hp 8 gallon is perfect for that.
Be smart and go to home Depot, Lowe's, tractor supply, or Menards or any other big box store and pay about the same amount BUT actually get a full 1 year or more warranty. Problem with harbor freight now days is their prices are about the same as anywhere else for most things, but only come with a 90 day warranty, unless you pay extra for their extended warranty, but again, your paying more for low quality stuff. Just my thoughts. It used to make more sense when you were paying 1/2 the price for a lot less warranty, but not anymore.
With some of the new items coming out maybe they're wanting to open up some floor space. Just my opinion but I think they have to many different lines anyway.
They should just drop all the 2 and 3 star products and stop offering the same exact item with multiple sku numbers that should open up some floor space.
Agreed...inventory and floor space management seems to be the most logical explanation.
Been running a craftsmen 30 gallon oilless 175psi compressor for 17 years. Doesn’t see a lot of use but it’s only needed a run capacitor replaced and that was early on. It will run all but the most air heavy tools pretty good. I’d say the die grinder I have is the only tool that makes it work to keep up. (Impact, ratchet, die grinder and air hammer) if you have the room, I’d definitely go for the biggest tank you can afford.
I agree, 2D CAD was the fundamental program we learned as an intro to CATIA.
it was nice having the access to build in 3D for projects. It was nice to import other features to check for fit and functions.
It was overkill, but I modeled my 30 X 50 shop before I built it. It was a good practical exercise..
I bought a vertical “oil free” from Lowe’s several years ago. After about two months of use the piston had a major manufacturing malfunction and the motor blew! Not a fan of oil free...
The AC 120 volt versions are no good.. The DC versions work good though.
@@NoNORADon911 If a compressor fails to cycle down on its own either get it fixed or throw it out. Overfilled compressor is a bomb.
And the oil free are usually so darn loud!
skliros adding a little oil and basic maintenance is not a bad thing. I think a better way to evaporate tank moisture would be a plus. The drain is always a problem..
@@NoNORADon911 Have you tried adjusting the cut out pressure on your compressor? Maybe it's just out of whack?
As much as I like my Milwaukee electric tools I don't think I could ever get rid of my air compressor
The tools are cheaper and last longer and I don't have to keep buying batteries every couple years
What are you talking about? Milwaukee M12 & M18 batteries do not wear out in a couple of years. What exactly is your definition of "couple?"
My last set lasted just under 4 years
They are only cheaper because you don't pay attention to your bills. Running pneumatic tools costs you a shitton more compared to electric since compressors are extremely inefficient to power compared to batteries and electric motors.
As long as there are still men in America, there will always be a need for a compressor. As soon as my new shop is built to replace the one that burnt down the first thing I will buy is a compressor. Probably a Kobalt 2-stage unit which is made by Hausfeld=Campbell. They are just under $600. It will replace my 60 gallon Craftsman that I bought at the turn of the century. I had it bolted to a moving dolly so that I could move it for maintenance and cleaning. And no it didn't roll around on it's own. Modified it to run through a transmission cooler, then water and oil traps before filling my tank with clean dry air. I plumbed in a ball valve from the bottom of the tank that I could reach for in case I need to decompress the tank and put a ball valve before going to the quick disconnect so that when it's not being used it doesn't drain down from leaking HF quick disconnects. I wish someone would come out with a compressor with all these bells and whistles. I have no need for a small compressor for small jobs as this one was always pressurized and ready to go. The dry air and large CFM capability ran my blast cabinet, plasma cutters, paint guns and die grinders/cutoff wheels. Batteries will never replace those tools. I actually think those tools will become more common as computers get better and cheaper. It's only a matter of time before HF offers CNC plasma tables. As far as oil free compressors, I have no experience with them in a shop setting, so I don't understand the fear. I'm in the dental industry and pretty much all dental compressors nowadays are oil free. And they run all day 5 days a week and last a long time. The reason they get replaced is because dentists are cheap and abuse them. They always get undersized compressors so they are overworked, never get the air filters changed and usually run them in a room that gets too hot and dirty. A cool and clean compressor is a happy compressor. I would love to have an oil free compressor so I don't have to have an oil trap.
I've got that 2 gallon Forteess on my shopping list. But I may have to wait a while just to see if they do come out with something even better. I only use one to blow up my bike tires...so it's not like its something I really need. I have a track pump and that works just fine.
Now what I would really like to see is for the HF to come out with a Great 12v compressor. The options they have for roadside emergency really are very lacking. Even if they took the 1 gallon Fortress and made a 12v option available for it. That would blow everything else on the market away. I would buy one and I know a lot of overlanders, 4x4.and off roaders that would jump at this.
Chicago Pneumatics lol poor bear's tongue slipped out @11:57
I have the 29gal, it is a beast. And it has an hour meter! There are still some things you still can't do with electric tools that air comes in handy for.
I have the same compressor. I use this thing a lot repairing my car and stuff around the house. I think out of all the compressors at HF this one is the one to get. The drain on the bottom is a no issue for me. I just reach under with my bear claws and open it up. Ive had mine about 2 years now.
@@northpoint1039 agreed, unlike some other HF products it is very well built.
Ugh, he slipped way more than that. He said "CHICAGO" virtually every time instead of "Central". Once, twice, okay, but more three times or more...bad bear. Baaaaad bear.
I had no idea that HF had a drafting board setup.. Never saw one in our local stores.
Same. Though they do have a special order catalog or used too. All that may be online now. So it may been select stores or online only
Or something they just tried in select markets but wasn't selling
HF sorts their items in the stores into areas that don't make sense to me. Tap & Die sets are always in the "automotive" aisle near the front, not by the lone tap handles at the back or drill bits and accessories on the side of the store. They're all laid out roughly in this way for me around here.
@@Aubreykun the 2 stores here...well havent been to old springdale store since new rogers store but layout is similiar from what i remember. the rogers one is bigger and longer so they have center aisle displays for big stuff, jacks, welders, cabinets, etc in every aisle where as other store only had that stuff on each end.
@@SgtJoeSmith Yep, the big stuff seems to vary (probably based on the building layout for moving heavy stuff) but as I remember you can always find item X near items Y and Z.
Hello. I have that 8 gallon McGraw compressor. I use it everyday in the shop . I love it. It has lots of power and it fills up real fast. I might buy another one and keep it the garage for home use.
Having a CG bear is some next level content XD
I don’t understand what’s wrong with oil free. My 33 gallon craftsman compressor is oil free and I bought it back in 2008. I’ve used it for paint, pneumatic tools, roofing and whatever else you would need one for. By the way make your own drain valve. I just used some brass tubing and a ball valve
The thing is oiled, belt drive compressors can be used hard for decades (functionally forever if well cared for, maybe replace a head gasket here and there), whereas even the best oil free definitely have an expiration date approaching at some point and there's nothing you can do about it. They might be better than they were (and quieter, they used to be extremely loud whereas a belt drive is quite reasonable) but it's also more expensive to get similar specs to a belt drive and they may never have the longevity. And frankly the maintenance on an oiled compressor is pretty minimal.
Excellent review. Set on 21 gallon McGraw, but got the Kobalt 26 gallon oil-less from Lowe’s, nice build quality
Those fortress are really nice. Have an old compressor hardly use it with all the battery operated tools. Not unless your running a shop or using it professionally not really needed.
I suspect they are getting rid of the low end line and will move forward with just the McGraw and Fortress lines. It wouldn't surprise me if they start doing that with some of their other tool lines. They establish the middle brand as being better than the cheap lower quality versions for just a bit higher price, then they drop the lower quality line. Their markup percentage is higher and they continue to improve their reputation for quality. They are slowly moving away from 'the place you go for cheap good enough tools' to 'the place you go for decent quality tools at a reasonable price'. Sure, you can go to one of the big home improvement stores, but then you have a lot longer to walk and good luck finding anyone to help if you don't know right where something is. I think you hit the nail on the head so to speak when you said they seem to be trying to edge into what Craftsman used to be when they were basically a store within a store at Sears. So far they seem to be making all the right moves to pull it off too.
Good video bear, a little bit of a rant you came back to target. When it comes to air i go grizzly or go home. The size of my air compressor is limited by the electrical available, use very little cordless mostly air and a few corded. Keep the video coming.
Seems HF may be doing away with the old names, and coming up with a total refresh on everything. A lot of those old chicago this and central that, well...just sounds dated IMO
Central Pneumatic does not fit in with the new "must be someone's last name" convention they use. (Bauer, McGraw, Bremen, Doyle, Quinn, Braun, etc.)
@@TheRaven078 It has been a trend
Different names to sound fresh and new, probably built in the same factories that built the others.
McGraw is straight from the 80s, but you make a good point.
I hope someone at HF HQ has studied the demise of Radio Shack. This reminds me of the Good-Better-Best marketing theme that they used for a while for audio equipment. And then they sold just cell phones and went under.
Personally, I wouldn't touch either one of those 8 gallon compressors. I have the black C P 10 gallon unit and it CAN run my Earthquake impact when I need it to. Yes, it cycles a lot because it only has a 10 gallon tank, but, if you let it catch up, it has enough airflow to run an impact. I also have the red 3 gallon pancake compressor that I use for hobby airbrush work. I had to do a minor plumbing project to adapt it to airbrush fittings but it works perfectly. If/when my C P 10 gallon portable unit dies, I hope that the black 29 gallon upright is still available. If it is, I'll rearrange a few things in my shop so that I can use it for smaller projects without having to fire up my big 2 stage...who wants to do that just to knock off a few lug nuts for a tire rotation? As far as my lil 3 gallon pancake buddy...I've been using it for airbrush work for over 5 years and it's never let me down. As long as they're available, I'll keep buying them. I might even buy a stock pile of them now since they're forever on sale!
I've been running the 2hp 29 gallon compressor hard daily for 5 years now. It's a great tool that will be hard to beat at a comparable price point.
Oh. So, you mean I ought to check my 38 year-old Craftsman hotdog to see if there's any oil in it after all these years?
Huh. Who'd a thunk it?
I was planning to buy a Fortress 2hp, 27 gal model for $399. I’m in NYC, and I don’t have a car. Yes, there is a Hf in the city. I don’t like bothering friends for things like this, so I would have it shipped. So I went to checkout. ??? They want $96.43 to ship it, and over $44 tax. Well, I backed out of that. I have a small Cal Air .6 Hp model for my powder coat guns, and it works very well. Very quiet and reliable. So I decided to go to eBay and see what they were selling there.
Their 2 Hp 5.3cfm @90psi 20 gal model was going for $429, free shipping! $34 tax. But here’s the kicker for me. The HF is 78db, which is still pretty damn loud, particularly in a small shop. The Cal Air is 70db. That’s one tenth as loud, as 10db is one tenth. 3db is half as loud.
It was supposed to come within 10 days, but arrived 3 days after I ordered it. Now, yes, this is 20 gal, vs 27 for the Fortress. Not a really big deal. It has a tiny bit higher air rating than the Fortress, which means nothing. But it really is so much quieter! And the compressor is fully protected all around. So since we talked about how HF is directly competing with Cal Air with Fortress in the smaller models, I’m wondering what, if anything, they will do about this?
Plasma cutter needs lotsa air, as does a sand blaster. I have the Kobalt 30 gallon (I don't think they make it anymore), meets my needs. I think I paid $375, 5 or 6 years ago.
Kobalt revamped their 30 gallon oil air compressor and its now back!!!! Me and a friend just bought one 6 months ago for $499
That 21 gal McGraw is a godsend. It's much quieter than my dad's Craftsman and excellent on space. I only have a 1.5 car garage so this thing sits perfect in the corner with a nice long cord. Runs an air hammer just fine. No good electric alternatives for that.
My compressor is so old it was made in the USA. Campbell Hansfield. (spelling?) Bought it at Menards in the mid '90's.
My real complaint is too many brands names at HF, pick three and use them for everything!
Some folks make the mistake of not checking the cfm on compressors..they just snatch it up based on the psi.. then wonder why they have to stop after every other nail for the compressor to catch up again. I have seen some out there on the market that deliver limited cfm and still rather pricey..
I used to frame houses with a DeWalt Job Boss for 7 years. Those jobsite compressors are beasts, and won't burn up with all day duty cycles.
If you want to do more then pump up tires in your shop you need atleast 10 CFMS
My shop air is used for blast Cabinet, tire inflation, blow gun to clean parts. I have to run 2 80 gallons IR compressors to bead blast paint
I keep wondering when they will release the new Hercules tools. I hold off from the Bauer tools until the Hercules line.
Same here. I really need Jig saw and I grabbed the Bauer model 4-5 times and I put it back right of way, nope I want Hercules jig saw 😂 ... I don’t even know if Hercules jig saw is coming , but I’ll keep dreaming and waiting 🍸
Thanks for another great video. Your always working hard to keep us informed
I mentioned on the forum that the Chicago Electric 12 inch miter saw is on clearance now too, so this raises further questions about what HF is up to. I suspect they're trying to transition away from their "good" tools altogether. It's a shame, though, because we've seen how badly they have mismanaged and continue to mismanage the Hercules line. There is also the problem of brand confusion (and profusion) within the store. Just among power tools and not including the "good" brands you have Hercules, Bauer, Earthquake, Lynxx, Atlas, Admiral, and Central Machinery. Bauer is the "better" brand when compared to Hercules and Warrior but is the "good" when compared to Lynxx and Atlas? That relationship may be the giveaway, as there is no rhyme or reason to it unless we assume the "good" brands are going away.
picked up a craftsman pancake compressor at Lowes, thing is LOUD, so annoying,returning for the fortress two gallon and extra tank.
Both my compressors are Kobalt, and happy with them. :)
I noticed them in there too but the predator generator has been in there for months so who knows if its really "clearance" or another HF game
Might depend on how much they have in stock and where, or if they're having issues with the replacement. I saw they had the stick welder in clearance for months upon months - but also the same ones sat in the clearance shelf in the physical stores because no one wanted to buy it. Same with the giganic 20" pittsburgh (or maybe pitt pro? Don't remember) tongue and groove pliers, which lasted til the doyle ones came out.
The thing with me on these compressors is the output will they run a die grinder or a good sized air sander? A lot of them will not so if you are a metal worker?
@@denisrhodes54 intermittent is not acceptable if you need to get something done?
Another feature of the "oil free" compressors, they can usually run in very cold temperatures.
The oil lubed compressors do too - you're supposed to change the oil to a lighter weight.
Gotta have a compressor for doing auto work. I'm looking to upgrade my shop compressor so my overhead air lines have greater psi. The 21 gallon doesn't cut it for impact wrenches.
I'v bought 4 small airless compressors for ease of transport that I could run off of an inverted or generator while away from my shop. That includes Sears
and others. I will have to check out the smaller ones from Harbor Freight as the other were all name brands and did not live up to the hype they used to
sell them.
Bear, it may be pure obsolescence? That the Fortress and McGraw lines simply uped the game that the older central numatic products are no longer selling. Market wants queit compressors with performance and would pay a little more for it than just living with the old tech?
I have the 29 gallon man that thing is nice so glad I bought one before there gone I wonder if they will make one In a fortress brand but none of those are oil compressors so mabye that model will stay and there just clearing floor space
I have had mine for 8+ years now. Re did the drain at the bottom shortly after I got it and replaced the air regulator a few months ago. It has been the rockstar of my garage love it.
I bought the Kobalt Quiet Tech... oil-less compressor and I Love it....26 gallons of Ingersol Rand air hammer slapping good-ness... 5 year warranty... fills quickly.. and Quietly..... I have over a dozen Rigid cordless tools but I do need a compressor... I don't need one frequently just from time to time....🖖
Earlier this year I finally broke down and bought a new compressor. I bought a 5HP Eaton and its fantastic. At 19 CFM at 100PSi its a Beast. It pushes my blast cabinet with out too much effort, and its super quiet at 73dB. Its in a different league than these compressors and you pay for it at $2k. Its the last one I'll ever buy though and I can do any air job i want.
I would like an updated video. There's new compressors now that I've never seen. You called it a year ago
Just bought the CP 29 gallon air compressor. $380 and bought the ext 1 year warranty for $75. Oiled, twin piston compressor (replaceable) and the electric motor is a Marathon Electric (replaceable). Quite possibly as good as name brand belt driven oiled compressors for hundreds of dollars less. My only bitch is that it was a sealed from the factory box, and had no compressor oil bottle in it. The compressor has oil in it, but its just below the low level. Back to HF for a bottle tomorrow. But just visually inspecting this unit, it appears to punch well above its weight class.
Lots of roofers and framers still use air compressors for the nail guns. That may change in the not distant future, but some folks won't change until the price is right.
Just purchased 20 gallon, 135 PSI oil bath air compressor. I have not plugged it in yet and I see 3 problems. The tank is not ASME certified, It runs on 125V only, was told I had to purchase pump oil separate. In Calif you cannot use an air compressor in a business unless tank is ASME certified. motors normally run better on 220 than 125 Volts. They had no compressor oil in stock, great business plan. There is a bottle of oil packed with compressor. none of this info is available until you unpack unit at home. On the positive side Harbor Freight is not my circus.
Been running a 6.0hp oil -less craftsman 33 gal. for 25+/- yrs. Never had an issue (knock on wood). Motor runs a minimum of 3 hrs a week. Best $200 I ever spent.
Assuming you have not done one, or I missed it somehow, could you do a video on automotive floor jacks from Harbor Freight? We are on a fixed (retirement) income and I want to do some of the less technical work on our two vehicles, a 2014 RAM 1500, crew cab, 4X4, Hemi and a 2005 Chevy Colorado Z71 4X4. I ask because I'm in my mid sixties and don't need a truck of any size falling on my chest, legs or any other valued body part(s)….And if possible, what about their jack stands? Old folks need to know these things. Thanks for ALL your excellent videos especially those covering Harbor Freight products. Keep up the great work.
The yellow Daytona Jack is the best they have and it's reasonably priced with coupon. It's a SnapOn knockoff and there are many positive reviews on it. The reason I suggest this one for you is because of it maximum lifting height, the cheaper jacks don't lift high enough when working on 4x4's
@@skrsys Thanks for your kind reply. We live pretty close to a Harbor Freight store/distribution center and the information you provided is very helpful.
As skrsys pointed out the yellow Daytona is the best. HOWEVER, it is almost the most expensive. I have Pittsburgh low profile jack and it works just fine. I have a 2016 Ram quad cab 2x2 with the hemi and it lifts it just fine. They have 3, 6, and 12 ton jack stands and they work fine. I know large chain tire shops that use them every day.
@@denoftools Thanks for taking the time to reply to a question that had nothing to do with the above video but the thought occurred to me while watching and listing to it believe it or not.. Take care and keep up the great videos you produce.
Noise may be an issue for some, but CFM is the most important spec IMHO. More Gals just make it non-movable.
I purchased a cheap HF compressor a couple of years ago. Big mistake. Big MISTAKE! It takes what seems like several minutes to air up a car tire. Im talking adding 10 lbs of pressure.
Is Harbor Freight moving to a more quality based model vs. Bottom price model? Now that Sears is gone, are the retailers not scrambling for there share of the market. People looking for a good value.
It looks like they are going for the fortress compressors being portable job site units and the McGraw being the shop compressors and not having a third option.
I think scroll compressors are next as their best option
Those new McGraw is just upgraded black ones. If you really look its the same motor and compressor bolted on it. On the 20 gal anyway. Just some better eye candy. Think McGraw is to replace the black ones.
I have the Harbor Freight 100psi $39. hot dog for under bench air. It's friggen great and no more buying cans of air.
Bear we need a video on Chicago Pneumatic. Not to be confused with Harbor Freight's central pneumatic. I've used Ingersoll Rand Snap-on Harbor Freight Craftsman and Campbell Hesse are tools and none of them compared to my Chicago Pneumatic Air Tools.
Chicago Pneumatic stubby impact out performs everything I've compared it against. Earthquake stubby was anemic in comparison, but so was a full size IR 1/2" impact.
With their lack of good coupons and hardly any freebies and everything being slightly marked up in price, I think HF is starting to try to upgrade its image. The problem is, there's TONS of great competition and usually the tools are equal to or better. For pros, no flat rate tech can take off and just "go warranty out" hand tools or whatever cheap stuff they bought at HF. My techs work from 7am to 10pm most days to earn a good living. Harbor Freight has its place for home guys, but I think they are trying to go way upscale with mid priced stuff. Now go over to Home Depot, Lowes, or Menards and suddenly you see a competitively priced Kobalt line of 24v tools with a bunch more than that Hercules stuff. But as for 11" zip ties for 1.99 with coupon, HF blows it out of the water. I've used millions and the 12.00 zip ties at Napa are no better. They are gonna price themselves out of the market with this stuff. I know several roofers and they aren't shopping for a compressor at HF. Home guys don't need to pay 229 for a small compressor. The home guys (which is probably 95+% of their business, can go over to tractor supply or Lowes and get name brand stuff cheaper. The pros in my auto business will always call the tool truck and they come by in a day or two and handle warranties in two seconds while the techs are still at work making money. They also let them borrow a super expensive special Socket or custom tool that they'll never use again for free rather than having them buy a 500 dollar special Socket. That service and saved time is what pros need. Not to go keep taking time off of work to buy a impact Socket that keeps cracking just because it was cheap with a "lifetime warranty". I love HF for certain things. I even have the 29 gallon black 150psi air compressor in my own garage at home. But if that gets replaced with a 450 dollar "better brand with similar specs", I wouldn't even considering shopping for one at HF. Home guys and small timers are all of their business. And there's NOTHING WRONG with that. That 39.95 Bauer hammer drill I bought last weekend to drill 4 holes in my garage floor lasted about that long. 4 holes. Hardly turns works at all now. It's still HF. Zip Ties, small tools, and free coupons. Now that's starting to change. Rant over! Sorry!
Bunch of free stuff in the latest sale.
@@denoftools * I hope for success for them. They're definitely going through some changes. I also don't like seeing snap on or any company fail and have people out of work. I'll have to check or out. Thanks!
Paint it a different color, stick a new label on it, cost $5 bucks more to make, charge $40 more. This is the new HFT mantra. The diamondback tile saw is a perfect example.
I’m an Air Powered Mechanic 👨🏼🔧🧰 Compressors Are Here Too Stay 😊👍🏼 I Don’t Do Electric Tools as Batteries Fail and Cost a Pretty Penny and Batteries are Incompatible Between Brands 😐😳😐 Air Is Universal 😊👍🏼
Sandblast cabinet needs air compressors.
I was going to get a McGraw but picked up the Central Pneumatic for $62.50 at parking lot sale.
It's been 2 years since this video dropped. HF has the same central pneumatic compressors on clearance.
If you are looking at the HF 29 gallon also look at the eastwood 29 gallon. I have the EW one and I think it is the same but it it $10 cheaper and does go on sale some times. I got It for 299
Just fyi it’s the exact same as the HF one
Maybe they will be adding scroll compressors as their best line, making the others good and better.
why do all their compressors seem limited to about 4 cfm at 90psi?
is that the limit for 120V driven compressors?
A couple of months back Harbor Freight had the impact screwdriver on both the "new" and "clearance" page at the same time. I quit trying to figure that out.
So home DIY you're saying go for the fortress 4 gallon? I mostly use finish nailers and shop sweep up with compressor
You could even go smaller. And you know what is better than a compressor for sweeping? A shop blower.
@@denoftools thanks for the rapid response that just got you a subscribe
If you use any air tools for more than five minutes then you want the high cfm cubic feet per minute because you will run the tank out quick and it cannot keep up with your tools
Does your comment include...like, airbrush psi pulls for more than 5 mins? Or just the heavier handtools?
I'm looking around for a "quiet" larger than "hobby shop" size compressor I can use in an apartment to airbrush paint model trains, cars & trucks anytime I find time, without pissing off the neighbors.
That "excited cat purring" noise sounds like just the one I want...
I dunno, but neither of the Harbor Freight stores within 60 miles had their 29 gallon central pneumatic compressor, I found out by driving there to get one.
Bauer is coming out with some kind of compressor just not sure on the specs yet
This reminds me...I should change the oil in my 20 year old 60 gallon Porter Cable compressor...lol
Tried to use the 20pct off coupon on it and was told that the coupon did not pertain to the higher priced items.
Joe Smith's oiled compressor can do 200 psi. 125psi used to be max for consumer level but now companies going higher. In reality you'll never need over 100 psi. It's the scfm that you need to pay attention too
8 gallon central for 100 bucks , still going strong for ten years now , and been sitting outside
I hope they keep the central pneumatic tools around. I have the oil less pancake that you can almost always find in the 40 dollar range. For a guy that needs a compressor around the house less than 20 times a year I love that noisy compressor. Plug it in, cover your ears, and go
have a cup of coffee.
Finishing your sentence 🙃