What They Don't Want You to Know! Part two of Insider Secrets and Tips to Shopping at Harbor Freight
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- Опубликовано: 19 июн 2024
- This is Part two of my Harbor Freight Insider Tips video. If you havent seen the first one, check that out here: • What They Don't Want Y...
Harbor Freight is a great place to buy tools, but let's face it-Harbor Freight can be a confusing mix of coupons, club memberships, and other shopping tactics that can leave you scratching your head wondering if you are getting the best deal. That's where I come in! I reached out to a bunch of current and former Harbor Freight employees to unearth the insider secrets that'll supercharge your next visit to Harbor Freight.
If you want to hear more tips or have any experiences or questions to share, be sure to leave a comment and subscribe to our channel. I appreciate your support, and we'll see you in the next one!
Here are a few of the other links that I mention in the video:
My video all about Harbor Freight's good, better, best strategy: • What's So Great About ...
Tool Truck Pirates facebook group: / tooltruckpirates
Harbor Freight's Black Friday ad: www.harborfreight.com/black-f...
Harbor freight Tax Exemption certificate: ttrecms.com/portal/3c5e6640-2...
#tools #harborfreight #harborfreighttools
Leave me a comment and let me know your thoughts. Thanks for watching. If you liked this video be sure to subscribe and check out the other videos on my channel. ruclips.net/user/diywithdave?s...
Contact: dave@diywithdave.com
Here is a list of some of the tools that I use in my DIY projects:
Kreg Pocket Hole Jig - amzn.to/3p7TcRG
Kreg Clamp - amzn.to/3pa12ug
Kreg Concealed Hinge Jig - amzn.to/3G7Dtdh
Kreg Shelf Pin Jig - amzn.to/3p4AKtZ
Dewalt Cordless Drill/Driver - amzn.to/3eE1qvX
Dewalt Compound Miter Saw - amzn.to/2I8M1s1
Sears Craftsman Jointer - vintagemachinery.org/photoinde...
Craftsman Jointer Replacement Blades - amzn.to/38mAj7w
Titebond III Wood Glue - amzn.to/3k93eyo
Dewalt 735 Thickness Planer - amzn.to/2IfKujC
Wen Track Saw - amzn.to/3lbSJNY and Track - amzn.to/314617W
Bosch Jig Saw - amzn.to/3rbG3dV
Japanese Pull Saw - amzn.to/3CZfMSh
Irwin Clamps - amzn.to/3CVdBiI
Shaker Rail and Stile Router Bits - amzn.to/3DWGuMM
Bosch Benchtop Router Table RA1181 - amzn.to/314kHnw
Bosch Mini Router - amzn.to/3HVdibb
Porter Cable Router - www.lowes.com/pd/PORTER-CABLE...
Plunge Router Base - amzn.to/3nTK2tx
Rockler Dovetail Jig - amzn.to/3nY7mqa
Porter Cable Brad Nailer - amzn.to/3lcwmrO
Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links and at no additional cost to you I may earn a commission. Know that I only recommend products and tools that I’ve personally used and/or believe are genuinely helpful, not because of the modest commission I may receive should you decide to purchase one of them. Most of all, I would never advocate for buying something that you can’t afford or do not need. 
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Something I find helpful about H F is a lot of times an employee will ask if they can help me find something. I don't hear that in other stores.
They save my time and it's good for sales. 👍😊
Yes!!! But also they make it very easy to find what you need. Everything is always organized and put where you would think an item would be just by looking at the tools around it. I find it harder to search around for what I need at HD or Lowe’s.
I will tell young people getting into mechanics, go buy tool sets at Harbor freight if you break one of them return it. If you break it again. Go buy a more expensive brand from elsewhere. There is no need to spend thousands of dollars on tools you don't need to. Also, if you need a larger than normal or unusual tool that you won't use often go to Harbor Freight first.
I bought a large cheap box wrench many years ago because it was so much cheaper. Until the day it busted and I cut the back of my hand on some sheet metal. And couldn't move my car until I finished that job.
Bandaged the hand, went to Sears, bought the Craftsman wrench and promised myself, no more cheap tools ever again.
Unless they are "disposable" for one light job. That's when I'll use HF. The quality control and DOA failures have been horrible.
Well said. I love HF as it allows weekend warrior content creators, like me, an entire world of tools that I would be typically priced out of with brand names. In any event, great information bro, thx.
My grandfather gave me this exact advice ^^^^ solid af 😏
Absolutely, i was a millwright and 90% of my daily use tools were harbor freight, i chose their impact duty for sockets since they were 6 point. They took plenty of abuse . Only thing that failed me was an impact driver drive , broke right at the impact insert shaft.
If u are a oil/lube Tech 😂
I agree on the Icon vs Snap-On. I have a somewhat related story. Our shop foreman came to me one day wanting a P.O. to give to a "truck tool supplier" for 12 of their 5 drawer carts. I immediately asked if he'd looked at the 5 drawer cart HF has, nope. I pulled it up online and explained how the tops of the drawers are hemmed or rolled over. I told him, I have a 41" MAC Racing box I've had at least 25 years. I bought it at a pawn shop, for 1200.00. That said I told him the top edges of all of my drawers are not hemmed over. On the bottom the top drawer is 38" long, 16" front to back & 3 1/2" deep. I keep all my sockets, ratchets, extensions etc in it. It has 1 slide on each side. Look at HF boxes they'd have 2 slides on each side. The HF drawers with 2 sides may be a bit deeper, but not by much. He drove up to HF and came back with what he could fit in the back of his truck. When it comes to the Icon boxes, I will put them up against a truck box, take your pick all day long. Im retired but if I were pulling wrenches in a shop, I'd buy the Icon 73" roller cabinet with the associated top box all day long. I know it only 25" front to back, but that's ok. I don't need every tool ever made, just enough to do the job. I am not intending to tick off any truck box fans. I just remember the guys rolling into the lot and realizing their tool boxes cost more than their vehicles. I don't mean to tick off any truck box faithful, it's just my 4¢ worth adjusted for inflation. Merry Christmas everybody!
HF has improved *a lot* in the last several years. With brands like Icon and Hercules, I hope they give the “top tier” tools manufacturers a run for their money.
Think they already do on basic stuff...ex: 1/2" breaker bar - Snap-On = $75, H/F = $25
No kidding, competition doing what it's supposed to do. I wish there was a Harbor Freight version of my cellular service, my cable service and so on.
@@GlennC789 Switched my phone to us mobile from Verizon a couple years ago. For cable, I’m afraid you’re SoL
@@GlennC789mint mobile and peacock, you’re welcome bud
@@GlennC789new Visio TV's have a free cable service built in. They probably are not the only ones.
One more comment. Your advice on being nice to the employees is VERY helpful. I’m treated great at the store and I love it. All it takes is being nice!
I mean. That is true in all aspects of society and overall interpersonal communication. Try to be a nice and decent human being in all aspects of life, not just while tool shopping.
It takes less effort to smile and be nice than to be nasty and disrespectful.
Being nice costs nothing. Being a jerk, however, you get to pay the jerk tax everywhere you go.
Yes, this should be how one relates to everyone they meet. The problem is most feel they are better than the next person, their time is more precious than the next person...I don't think so! Just because you can build a Motor from the block up, doesn't mean you can bake a cake, plant a vegetable garden, build a shed or use a cash register! I know a guy who can build a motor, fix machines, paint a car, but can't spell to save his life or use a keyboard...so one may be better in some things, but not all things, so the one thing you can be better at than most, is SMILING and being NICE!
Not only do you feel better about yourself by being nice to people. It the best strategy in getting your way. Nice is an attitude that is seperate from what you are asking for. Use it.
I live in Oklahoma and I am a veteran. You are correct about getting the sales tax exempted but this only applies to veterans that have 100% disability from the VA and it is a state wide benefit for use in all stores including websites like Amazon.
Just gotta say, your presentations are first rate. Your content is super helpful, but I'm very impressed with your delivery. Smooth, easy to listen, well prepared, and informative. Keep it up!
What a great compliment, thank you!
This guy is a VERY good presenter.
Honest and straight forward always wins.
I always buy extra tools when I can and they serve as my extended warranty. Especially the 4 1/2" angle grinders. When one dies , I just get another from my tool shed. This usually costs the same as the extended warranty with a lot less hassle.
Harbor Freight’s heavy duty tarps are really pretty good quality. I have three that I’ve used to cover hay and shavings on my farm and they have lasted 5+ years now. Not a single rip or tear. Pretty impressive considering our harsh winters here in Wisconsin.
That's good to know. And hello from Door County.
I live on a fixed income I'm 67 years old And Harbor fridge is right up my alley. I had one problem in the last ten Years and they took care of it right away. At no charge to me. I was very impressed with their way of doing their business. Taking care of their business and taking care of their customers. I love Harbor freight I don't care what anybody says Harbor freights the best.
Same here I'm 62yo gr8 company
Appreciate the explicit advice to a) be nice to their employees; and b) don't freaking steal. My nephew was an employee at a HF and he told me that if you were to fill up your cart with expensive stuff and walk out they'd been told NOT to physically stop you -- and I had to explain that yes, that's actually store management taking care of their employees (and themselves along the way). But I shop a lot at my local HF, and I've had the best customer service there compared to the other places in town to buy tools (looking at you, orange tool hut). Be nice to them. Oh, and the Insider membership -- great idea to have them look up the savings, but I honestly don't need to do that to know it's very much worth it. I'm filling up stockings this Christmas with many "free" things I've gotten just because I visited the store with that membership -- some I had to buy something to get, and some you get just for walking in. Plus I just bought my first earth auger for way cheaper than even anyone on Amazon because of a Black Friday Members sale plus other savings. That's probably the best $30 I've spent all year.
I purchased a generator and warranty. About a year later walked back in with the fluids drained and upgraded to a bigger generator. Had the receipt. The process was pretty quick and simple. Thank you for your videos Dave!
A couple of thoughts. First on the Membership. Seriously, a single discount can pay for it. Right now the band saw stand is $30 off, truck bed ramp for $30 off, a miter saw stand $50 off, digital torque wrench $45 off, and a 3 ton jack $50 off. In addition, there are a lot of items $10-$20 off so just a few of those make it worth it.
Also they have sent me personal coupons for 15% off with no exclusions for any item in the store, regardless of price.
Second, the no veteran discount really doesn't amount to much. I have a vet discount at both Lowe's and Home Depot, which is 10%. Neither of those stores stack that discount on top of sale prices, and I would expect Harbor Freight to do that either. Harbor Freight has so many discounts between coupons, instant savings, clearance, and member deals almost all of which are more than 10%. A vet discount wouldn't stack on those savings anyway.
In addition, it's probably a little known fact that Harbor Freight supports veteran groups to the tune of millions of dollars annually.
The BEST "tool" i purchased at Harbor Freight, by far was the 1,700 lb trailer...
I bought it 13 years ago...
It had been smashed into by 3 different people...
My Wife tried to back it up with her SUV and tweaked the neck...
Last year I tore off all of the old wood...
And I removed the surface rust...
I took everything back apart...
And I used Harbor Freight's flux core welder and their self dimming helmet to weld the trailer... (Also a FANTASTIC DEAL!)
I also received a notice several years ago about a recall for the Harbor Freight trailer lights...
They sent me a FREE light kit that I never took the time to install...
I finally took the time to install them...
I used the plastic wire coverings from Harbor Freight with great and professional looking results...
I also moved the license plate light from the side to the rear of the trailer because I got tired of hitting my shins on it!
The last thing I checked on the trailer was the axle...
And it was a GOOD thing I did!
The bearings were completely fried...
I could not find replacements anywhere, but was able to find bearings and hubs from eTrailer. (I had to do some machining, but it works fine)
New tires were also in order...
I kept one of the old tires and wheels and made a spare tire bracket between the 1st and 2nd Sections under the frame...
Oh..
The red paint faded to pinkish, so I also painted it Forest Green...
I bought it for $200 13 years ago...
Hauled a BUNCH of stuff, using it to move twice...
And I put $300 into it last year...
Yeah, it's been a GREAT tool...
I have a warrior drill that I purchased for a large construction project. I used the crap out of that thing and abused it on regular occasions. I even left it outside one time and it received 4 inches of rain right on top of it and still works three years later.
Right on! I bought two of the older 18v model four or five years ago for general around the house and hobby workworking use. They are great general purpose drills, the batteries are good and they can take a lot of hard licks.
I used a tip from your last video about the 25% off coupons. I waited because there was a large ticket item I wanted and low and behold, got one in an email and made the purchase. Excellent channel. Keep up the good work!
Great to know, thanks for the update. 😊
Wish I'd thought of that before buying their stand up bandsaw. For $499 I still can't be mad though lol
Need to retrofit the blade guides, but I've made some fairly precise cuts with it and, even though they say it doesn't cut metal, I've cut 3/16" aluminum with no problem. Haven't resawn anything over 4" , but I've done some very hard woods with great success.
🤘🏼✌🏼
Where is the link you said you would put in the bottom of the video on a list of tools manufacturers comparing? ?
@@denisel.gasper3012 I don't believe this is from the poster of the video lol
And, probably in the description?
Never had an issue with any HF employee. Always very helpful and even loaded up the 5 drawer mechanics cart I bought last week.
Their warranty service is outstanding!!! I picked up a gas HF chainsaw and was skeptical as it was so cheap, got a 1 year warranty. Within 3 months and only 4 cords of wood cut the tensioner broke, brought it back they exchanged without hesitation the new one had 2 new chains and they gave me a gas mix bottle. Icon tools are great and will recommend for pro use, their Pittsburgh line the steel quality is not good but if you need a specialty hand tool for a project Pittsburgh line will do.
Harbor Freight is gaining more and more of my respect, for sure. Used to just think ot was all throw away stuff, but am now seriously considering the Series 3 box and looking at outfitting my new shop with a lot of Icon tools also! Keep up the good work and thank you for sharing!
The Quinn 428 set is a complete set I outfitted my service truck with Quinn tools for under 2 grand and have never needed something that didn't come in the set
The Series 2 (and I presume 3) are excellent tool chests for the price range. Maybe not for a pro mechanic pounding on it daily, but definitely for home.
@@happyrootsfamily1276 I have grown to really like some Quinn tools. Their screw drivers are my favorites.
As a DIY gearhead, the Icon double box end flex head ratcheting wrenches are the best tool they have in the store. I was eyeballing them for a while, caught a coupon for XX% off any item in the store and oh man those wrenches are a steal for under $200.
Thanks for The Part 2 any value or secrets that could help when I go there is always appreciated.
I have been shopping at HF for the past 6 years. I think just as a general homeowner this store carries the tools that are needed to maintain your home, in my case. In the last 4 years I have added the Inside Trak membership and I like to go and check out the amount I have saved since I did not know that was an option. Thanks for that. I have never owned a Milwaukee or Dewalt product line but I always here they are better than HB. In my case I feel that I have made the correct purchase now owning a full line of the cordless Bauer tools. Very happy so far.
really great video. Very useful. You are very fair and honest with your commentary which I appreciate. I like Harbor Freight and have been wondering how they are able to sell their products for less than others. You gave a great overview of the back story of HF and it all makes sense. Thank you for taking the time to provide this important information.
I'm in the Inside Track Club and it is definitely worth it. I get a lot of emails telling me to come in and get a free small tool (flashlight, multimeter, etc). I also get a lot of great prices on regular merchandise.
Ordered my first "Test Order" around 1984, whe their name was Harbor Freight "SALVAGE"! Was blown away! I'm a retired CNC Machinist/Programmer from the old school 'G' and 'M' code days, so I wasn't really concerned about maybe having to Re-drill/Tap/Shift, a parts location (it happens). Anyhow, I have nothing but the best to say about them, and am still using the same tools from that era to this day. Only neg. experience I ever had was with their Pneumatic Brad Nailers, but that was my fault for trying to use them on heavy commercial applications! I've been a Porter Cable believer ever since, Ha! Thanx for your great (and HONEST) video reviews on this great store for the "Po-Folk'! Gb PS: I'm waiting with HUGE anticipation for my BRAND NEW H.F.T. Dec.grand opening in Blue Ridge Ga.! Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeee!
The extended warranty. Worth it on some items.
2 year extended on my winch. Garage burned down and the winch was a melted down mess. Just brought the parts in and the gave me a new one. 😀
It's worth it on things like welders, generators, compressors, etc.; as there's always that off chance you end up with a lemon /w a manufacturer defect (regardless of where you got it from), things like weld failures, weak fittings, etc.
I bought the Quinn digital torque wrench when I rebuilt my engine and it’s AWESOME! I have an LS and using the Torque to Angle feature was a little difficult to comprehend for me (first rebuild) but once I got the hang of it, it was awesome.
Real good tips here. I've shopped HF for over 40 years and still use some of the original tools I've bought.
I use to avoid HF, but now I do all my tool shopping at HF. I liked your comment about the godd/better/best, as that is how I do my shopping. Good video, thank you.
Thanks for all your work on this video. I thought the information about the tiered pricing scheme was most helpful and the information from current and former employees was the most interesting.
Another great info blog. Used your good better best just last week. Thank you
You’re an outstanding communicator. About ten years ago I returned a low end floor jack that was two years old. Never used, and I treated the cashier professionally, told the truth, had my receipt and to my surprised they replaced it which I was thankful for and from that instance forward I was hooked. I will also say it’s the only item I’ve ever returned. I’ve always bought very high end tools my entire life but I’ve found harbor freight to be a great legitimate solution for my needs.
Thanks for part two.
Your info is great and much appreciated, TYSM!!
"Tool Rental" Lowes and Home Depot used to get hit with chain saw and generator returns after every big storm. They changed their return policy on those items as a result.
I don't do that, but obviously there are people who will.
Inside Track member for many years and I have ton of HF stuff as I run two businesses which use tools.
Thanks for all the tips!
Very, very helpful information! Thanks so much for creating this information video. All tips were great-I can't choose just one that wa the most helpful! :)
We recently got a Harbor Freight in our town and I'm really liking it. Easy to get to, good deals, nice people there.
Thanks for the big tips!
Very nice info. I have gotten lots of tools that I use all the time with no problems. The one tool that was a bad deal was a whack it stapler. They just didn't hold up. After Very light use with 3 in a row I purchased a high end arrow brand and next time I went the 90 miles to harbor freight I returned them. I was building an addition so my parents had only one floor to be on and insulate their house. Removing the mobile home and building a stick frame house with wheel chair access everywhere.
Thank you Dave, that was very insightful ! I just subscribed, free education is always the best !
Best tip was #1 and I cannot thank you enough for mentioning this! We run a non-profit rescue organization and NOT ONCE EVER did an employee or manager (of which I am familiar with a few) mentioned this was possible! I talk about our rescue almost every time I am at the counter to check out! Thank you!
No big deal that the employees didn't think of it. Now that you know you can ask them nicely and start getting the extra discount. May you and your rescue mission be blessed abundantly 🙏 Thank you for doing what you do ❤
I recently purchased a rolling toolbox from harbor freight and I love it. The quality definitely gives snap-on a run for their money.
Never used a warranty on anything at Harbor freight. I always go in knowing it might be a disposable tool. I don’t have the passion behind the end and outs like you do. I appreciate you making these videos. I am enjoying them and you have earned a comment and subscribed from me. The audio is perfect. You’re doing a good job putting them together. I do have a finished nail gun pneumatic that I bought for 15 bucks and it’s lasted 20 years never given me a problem. I put a couple drops of oil after I use it every time, and that thing just keeps on working. I also have an inexpensive angle grinder from there that has been worth the price for sure less than 20 bucks. I work in the trades and 90% of my tools are major brands. Mainly Milwaukee, some Dewalt but at my dad‘s house where I need to use his drill, I am impressed how well that harbor freight cordless drill does. I wouldn’t put it through the abuse. I do with my work tools but for him it’s perfect for me. I am always impressed anyway great I will continue to like and subscribe.
Thank you Sr.
Very useful info. Part 2 as well.
No trashy graphics or crazy effects or any of the Photoshop madness: just 100% useful info. Great! Thank you! Thumbs up 👍🏻 !
The membership is worth it if you plan on buying something spendy. I bought a 14" Bandsaw and it was on sale for ITC members for $50 off. So i sgned up and still saved $20. You get a lot of free items if you are a member. And in my small town members get treated a little better. I think it's because they tend to think of you as a repeat customer.
Thanks Dave for the good info. Your videos are really interesting
Glad you like them!
Dave, so groovy. I shop at H.F. on a regular basis. Thank you for the great tips.
My husband and I buy a lot of things at Harbor Freight.... Did you know, Pittsburgh Professional sockets are made by Apex Tools of Taiwan, and are identical to Tekton sockets (other than the stampings)? Icon pliers are quite good. Thunderbolt batteries, however, are worse than useless, as are "Warrior" brand drill bits.
DIY with Dave.. I have some of the Pittsburgh impact sockets, Icon nut drivers and wrenches and so far they have been great. I will be buying more of their Icon stuff especially the new stuff coming out soon. I also have the US General full bank tool cart and it is great too. They have a lot of stuff that I want to try out and show on my channel. Harbor Freight is definitely stepping up their game, I just hope the prices don't get too high.
Dave: Thanks for the two parts! I learned a lot and appreciate HF even more......
I have the post hole auger. It was a little more than renting one. I've used the heck out of it and so have my family and neighbors. Three years and still working. Also got low end jig saw that only lasted for one project but they gave me a new one and it still works.
Thank you for all the tips and information, I rather enjoy this series
Your videos is very helpful, thanks for doing them.
The Inside Track Club membership is a better discount if you pay for 2 years at a time. The cashier brought that to my attention and I agree. i've done it for the last few years.
I purchased the Chicago Electric 2.5 HP 10"Industrial tile/brick sliding wet saw a few years back and absolutely love it. It was a $100's less than the equivalent big names. Now granted this was for home use only, but I cut huge porcelain tiles with ease and accuracy. The sled on older reviews was said to be loose, they apparently fixed that on my model.
Harbor Freight is definitely my go to for many tools. I own the ICON socket sets 1/4" and 3/8" and my only complaint is getting the sockets off the ratchet is a struggle with my arthritis. I wish they had the push button release like many of the others do. Other than that HB has been my go to since they opened here in my area.
Good stuff thanks for part 2
Great 2nd video. Thanks. I shop there all the time.
Love your clearity, you are a pro communicator.
Thank you!!
Harbor freight makes the best toolbox for the money hands down. I have a couple gen1 boxes and they still impress me. I'm out of room in them now, I'll definitely be adding a gen3 soon.
Thank you for sharing. Great information. Everyone stay safe, warm, happy and healthy. From Henrico County Virginia
I needed a small jam spray gun and at the time I was learning how to do a good paint job and didn’t want to invest in a high end gun. The HF trim gun was less than $10 and got me started.
Today I use a small expensive Italian gun that is a dream to use… now that my skills have improved enough to make the more expensive gun worthwhile.
I still use a HF gun if I’m spraying epoxy paint because if the paint unexpectedly sets up too fast and I can’t clean it, I haven’t ruined my expensive gun.
Inexpensive tools have their place as long as they can do a reasonable or one time job.
I used to think that Harbor Freight only sold cheap worthless garbage. After a few years, I started buying small things and gradually found that I was buying larger, more important items. So far almost everything I have purchased from HF has been great, especially the Apache cases - SO much cheaper than the equivalent Pelican cases.. extremely worth it! Thanks for the tips. I might just go for the club membership next time I’m there.
Good helpful information.
Very informative series. I love HF. It’s my go to
Harbor Freight is a place to go after buying a vehicle or automotive enthusiast.
Their tools are great and most of the items have guarantees. I haven't had any issues when returning an item under guarantee.
Thanks for the video
Thank You for Your Videos. They help alot....
I know when I was a kid HF always had the rumor going around everywhere that they are cheap tools to beat up and abuse. Now, I am honestly happy to say that Harbor Freight is my main place to go buy tools. Because let's face it tools are expensive, and honestly Harbor Freight tools have increased in quality Dramatically! Here in New York we have a Runnings right next to Harbor Freight (FYI Runnings was in my area about 3 years before Harbor Freight came to town) and Runnings USED to be my go to store. Not anymore, I have basically switched my entire mechanic's tools over to HF brands (more specifically ICON and Doyle) and I have put my tools through the stringer. I have been VERY happy with the quality and I have been extremely happy with the customer service and store relations I have built with Harbor Freight again. I'm happy that they are back in my town.
I still have a number of Harbor Freight tools I bought when they were a mail order only company. Bought a 3/4" drive socket set for $25 with free shipping. Still use a Pittsburgh 3/8" flex head ratchet, it still works better than a couple newer ratchets I have purchased over the years.
I really like this video!!! Harbor Freight has just what I need. Americas best tool store!!
Harbor Freight essentially filled the niche Sears left behind years ago
Another good tip for shopping HF and their sale flyer,look thru it very well. You can find some of the exact same items on different pages with different prices, all in the same sale flier. So again, search the entire sale paper very well.
After watching your video, I decided I will look much closer at the Hercules and Icon brands before purchasing new tools. Looking forward to a video on air compressors.
Awesome video thanks for the tipS
Open a cabinet shop last February and bought all Hercules drills, drivers, sanders, planers and saws. I use my tools hard and I have high expectations. I Love my table saw. its been great. ive gone through 3 orbital sander. one electric screw driver but the one tool thats been the worse has been the planer. really bad dust collection. and ive had infeed out feed weels fail. moters go bad. plastic dust collector part has broken a few times. i think im on my 5th. i buy everything with the warranty and never had a problem returning anything. my personal opinion is that with the warranty the hurcules tool line is great and for the most part im happy.
I'm an Inside Track Club member & have bought numerous tools from HF. I'm generally pleased with what I have purchased. I frequently use coupons for items. I sometimes take advantage of their free offers. When contemplating a major purchase, I watch for 20-25% coupons & time the purchase based on that. Some tools are only occasionally used so I look for the mid-range tools. I do not make a living in carpentry, construction or other trades so I do not have to have the top of the line brands.
Another great HF video 👍
I am going to try tip #5. I've been wanting one of those large rolling tool cabinets for a while. I'll put one in my cart. See if HB plays along :) Overall good segment. I have a better impression of Harbor Freight now.
Excellent video! I just re-watched it, as it came across my RUclips feed again, and it was worth the 2nd look. A couple of things...
I do think that how long a "good" HFT tool (e.g., Warrior) lasts depends on how rough you are on it, and how often you use it. If a pro goes at it hard at work every day with a Warrior angle grinder, then yeah, it's likely not going to last that long. If a weekend warrior (pun partially intended) uses it occasionally on light-to-medium duty projects, it might last for years! Using the angle grinders as an example, I've got 2 of them - one with a grinding wheel on it and one with a cutting wheel on it, and I use them every now and then on various projects. (At about $10 for the grinder, it's worth it to have 2 and not have to mess with changing out disks!) These have lasted me for many years, except for the one that I myself killed by slicing the power cable while cutting something else! (And that would have resulted exactly the same if it had been an expensive tool, but I wouldn't have HAD 2 grinders if I had an expensive tool!)
Anyway, I tend to lean toward the "better" brands (e.g., I have a LOT of Bauer tools), but have a few "good" HFT tools as well. That's because I practice your Tip #29, and check the reviews RELIGIOUSLY! And sometimes it's not enough to just look at the chart, but it pays to actually read the reviews - or at least some of them. Sometimes a person will give 5 stars when they haven't even gotten it out of the box yet, but just "know" it's going to be great, but also (I think even more often) I see 1-star reviews because the tool didn't include something the buyer expected to be there (even though it was clearly stated on the box what WAS included), or it got damaged when it was dropped on a concrete floor (and really - whose fault is that? not the store's, and not the tool's!!!), or some other ridiculousness.
Again, thanks for the videos. I enjoy your work.
Yes... yes yes, This was a very helpful and useful video.
Very useful video. Thanks!
I used to go into HF & it smelled like "Made in China" in the store, not any more, don't know what they did, but I'm glad they did it... Now my wife will go in with me😂
😂😂😂
Same here. It smelled like cosmoline and industrial rubber.
20+ years ago I had friend that was a harbor freight manager and he constantly talked/complained about the China Dust in the box’s.
Most stuff is made in Taiwan or Vietnam now. The cheap stuff is made in India.
That smell back then was from certain tires and the carbon black that was used in them.
The problem is that every store smells like “made in China” so you can’t even notice it anymore
Very informative of knowledge. There cut off wheel are a plus and sanding pads. Tools Pittsburg are fairly strong and reliable
I think the inside track is worth it. I have bought several things at a discount. Now sometimes I won't renew it till, I buy a large ticket item. I'm pretty sure I have saved at least enough money to recoup my $29.99. I happen to like Harbor Freight. Thanks for the video
I have to agree HF has stepped up there game and the Black Friday deals were and still are great I bought some things I wanted.
Dave
Another great video. I have some of their Hercules line and I must say I was pretty impressed with it. I think I’ll stop by cause I need some hand box and open end wrenches especially the ratchet type. Have a Merry Christmas to you and your family
Wonderful report! Great job!
I bought a Chicago Electric 7 1/2" circular saw on sale for $29.95 and it's great! However, I bought their top of the line blade.
You mentioned that a HF employee said that Craftsman didn't honor their warranty any more. Not true. Just today, I called Craftsman about a pair of 20+ year old (1/2" & 3/8" drive) ratchet wrenches. That model is no longer in production so they upgraded me to a pair that retails for over $90 and they're paying for shipping!
I've been told that if you bring something back to HF that is part of a set (sockets, etc.), that you have to bring back the whole set even if only one is broken.
Thanks again for your great report!
-Rich
Great info - THanks!! I'm a recent HF convert having avoided them until recently.
What won me over? Well the lifetime warranty on many different brands helped but it was also a realization that I'd been watching too many tool comparison vids.
I mean just because a brand will be tested as "the best" under the testing conditions doesn't mean it's a good tool for me.
My needs and goals are different than other people's. I may want to buy really great quality tools at some point but for me the more pressing issue is to actually HAVE more tools so I can DO more things with them.
Money saved on today's tool purchases will definitely be used on more and different tools in the future.
Not only that but some of the tools in my toolbox are WAY worse quality than HF tools - so why did I have this sort of "elitist" attitude about HF tools? Literally a $20 set of combination wrenches from Pittsburgh Tools more than doubled my total wrench inventory! AND I got metric and SAE and 11 different sizes in each. 22 wrenches for $20!! ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! That's a fantastic deal and if I break them, oh well, just return it for a replacement. What if it rounds off a nut? Well I've done that with my smaller set of tools because I didn't have the right size so hopefully that won't happen as much.
I'm hoping HF continues to improve quality and extend warranties but also keep the prices reasonable and KEEP THE COUPONS COMING! It's such an amazing feeling dropping $100 and walking out with 3 power tools you've been needing! I literally expected someone to stop me and accuse me of stealing! haha
Great points, thanks for sharing!
interesting video....im a inside track member and i feel like it does pay for itself. Keep up the good work
Another great video. I don't buy warranties because I don't use the tools that hard to break them. You are right with respect to selling them it is just a way to make extra money. Why do those big box stores sell protection plans because the margin on say a 1000 dollar TV is maybe 100 dollars (or less) but if you buy an extended warranty for 3 years for a couple hundred dollars that is ALL PROFIT because electronics tend to fail in the first year and are covered under the manufacturers warranty. If you have a fence company then buy the warranty cuz you are likely to kill your post hole auger otherwise save your money :)
Thanks you are a very I've guy and have great videos,keep up the good work I love harbour freight so much I have to control myself from going in there cause it's so great and I get carried away with too many purchases .I think I need everything in the place .
Excellent video! Always like shipping at the Harbor Freights in Des Moines.
Thanks!
Very useful video and really informative
Dumpster diving is not my thing but I know some success stories. I’ve actually not learned anything from your videos but I’m happy you are sharing because it teaches people
Video is worth watching. Harbor Freight is a good merchant watching the video makes me a better customer.
There was a major power outage in the city where our Harbor Freight is. The manager set up a system where an employee would escort you to the product you needed and back to a cashiers st the door. Cash only, but kept the store going and open for people who might have a need for a specific product that day. And except for Lowes who has an generator they were only store open.
You mentioned Oklahoma veterans don't pay tax. I am an Okla Vet and it only applies to 100% disabled vets. Love the videos. Great info. Thank you
Thanks for the clarification!
I'm not a pro and find HF to be a great place to shop for many items. Thanks for the tips.
As a small business owner, I especially liked certain warranties for certain tools. For example the paint sprayer. Now even though it is of low quality and breaks down quite often, the warranty is the reason it's such a good deal. Some of the top name brands in paint sprayers have gotten more expensive with cheaper parts and the warranties are typically terrible when comparing to harbor freight. For $250 I purchased a paint sprayer. For an additional $60 it covered a 3-year bumper to bumper warranty. I highly recommend you purchase the warranty if you're going to purchase the sprayer because three out of every five of those sprayers has gone out and when you can walk in and return the sprayer within the time frame of 90 days and only have to pay the $60 warranty payment you can walk out with a brand new sprayer. After the 90 days you don't get the same deal. And I've tested that and if you are over 20 days past the 90-day period they will not honor it. Completely understandable and I was left with more than one past the 90 days that don't work. I Will continue shopping at harbor freight due to their warranty program. On another note, thier solar powered disc shape d garden lights have outlasted any other high end brand I have ever purchased even without a warranty. My disc shaped garden lights are still working 5 years later when other higher brands with warranties that most don't honor have failed. I'm a small business owner and will always be self-employed as a side hustle and will continue to purchase from harbor freight. Thanks...
Hercules 1/2" Impact. Hands down the absolute BEST 1/2" battery powered impact, Hel, really any 1/2" impact I've ever used. The battery life is phenomenal, the Torque and speed are amazing. I used it to assemble grain augers and conveyors up to 134' long back in Missouri. And going on service calls? Never went without it. Ever. Ran 1 1/4" sockets like it was just another day on the beach.
I have Pittsburg tools that I use all the time, and never had a failure. Great tools for the money. I even bought there 125 amp welder and it runs great.