I purchased the Hercules compound miter saw as an upgrade to my old Dewalt miter saw and bought the stand for it. I couldn't be happier. I have the Bauer portable bandsaw. That's another tool I'm quite happy with. Harbor Freight has definitely improved their quality.
May i add: drop cloths, moving blankets, paint trays, other consumables, doo dads such as solar garden lights, light duty garden tools , and stuff you scatter all over the house such as the tiny flashlights. Great video.
I dont buy much from HF, but as a self employed welder for 10+ years that keeps track of how much value I get out of my consumables I will say this. Their cutoff disc's for grinders dont really wear down much faster than most other name brands, but are definitely cheaper. The cutting disc are so thin, that everybodys wears about the same and at most if it wears out 25% faster, they're still at least 50% or more cheaper. So those are cost effective to use. Now their flap disc's are the opposite. If you need those, go to your local welding supply to buy them. They are about twice the price but are around 3 times as thick and last about 4 times longer, making them more cost effective. The ONLY time I would buy them at HF is if there is a ridiculous sale or coupon on them because they wear out so quickly. And to touch on the grinder that you mentioned for metal work. Unless you're working on the pipeline, a 4 1/2" grinder will do about anything you need around the shop and will be lighter and fit in tighter spots. Leave the 6" grinders to those doing industrial or pipeline work.
I got the 2 ton shop crane on sale for $200. It folds up into a small footprint and has been very handy, along with the 1 ton chain hoist for $80. They have been really useful when loading and unloading heavy items into my truck bed. Also, I can put the harness on my dog and lift him up into the air when it’s time to hose him down and then he can’t run away!
Totally agree with your intro on why it’s good to buy from HF sometimes. My general rule is if I need quality and/or precision, I go with more well-known brands. If I just need something to get the job done or an entry-level tool (because I’m not sure if it’ll become a permanent fixture in my garage), I’ll check out HF first. I’ve bought a bench grinder, drill press, bench sander, clamps, and chisels, all of which are good enough to get the job done or get me 90% there. And if I ever realize the tool is becoming a staple in my shop, then I upgrade the tool and have a spare now for quick and rougher jobs. Awesome video
Glad you liked the video! I love hearing how others use HF tools. Your method of starting with Harbor Freight and upgrading as needed is a great approach. Thanks for sharing! 😊
Clear true and no fan boy name calling. Thanks for this one. I bought a few of their 12v Hercules tools because they were lighter than the many orange brand 18v tools I have had for years. When I’m working over head the lighter weight allows my damaged shoulders to last more than an hour. The battery life of the Hercules 12v is outstanding. I put half of a metal roof on my shop with one battery… that was nearly 300 2 and 3 inch screws. I still love my orange tools but the blue is worth a look.
Brother you said it perfectly. There are plenty of tools that you don't need to absolutely count on, and that's where HF comes in real handy. Something I use everyday and depend on, that's going to be well-built and worth the investment. Something I rarely use that gets the job done, we're safe to cut a corner or two.
I have 10+ Bauer and Hercules power tools, and I find they r able to go head-on with my Dewalt tools. None of them have failed on me in over 1 year of almost daily/weekly use. And I abuse them more than my more expensive Dewalt line of tools. One thing I would recommend is getting the 2 yr extended warranty on power tools. This allows a no hassle replacement (NOT repair) within any HF store ( no waiting/shipping). Also recommend to buy using their coupons which come out weekly.
Been using the Bauer palm router for 5 years now and it's been amazing. Hasn't let me down yet. At the time it was $72.compared to over $100 for a DeWalt
Overbuilt tools, as well as underbuilt tools are a very real thing. As a ~95% handtool only shop, most of the limited power tools I have for household maintenance are about right or overbuilt (i.e. the dewalt 12v drill & driver set is just about right for my home needs and will probably last the remainder of my life of ~25 years). My dewalt lunchbox planer is just right but is really only used in dimensioning after I’ve face jointed one side first (with good maintenance it’ll last me till I die too). As a byproduct, it’s only really used as a ‘shop’s apprentice’. A set of carbide knives is a great investment because I don’t depend on it for final surface for anything and the long lasting dimensioning legs is well worth it. Some guys are better with the HSS knives and changing them out more often to keep their surfacing in peak condition. In my case, if so have a nick in a knife, it’s really not a big deal for a long time. A set of chisels for the hybrid woodworker can vary depending on what he thinks he needs, but by and large, he’s not going to demand or need to demand as much from them as guys like me do. A guy who occasionally breaks out a No°5 or block plane to edge joint a short box side, clean up endgrain, or chamfer and edge isn’t going to need the quality and exacting level of someone who spends hours with a No°6/Foreplane in his hands just to dimension once it used more than any other plane I have. I use Harbor Freight the same way the rest of you guys do for buying a tool I’ll use a few times or once every few years (20 ton bottle jacks, a hammer drill, 50’ drain snake, etc… as examples). But also they are handy for some consumables. Like you, transfer punches have come in handy when building tools; in my case two sets of transfer punches sine I’ve used them for alignment. I’ve made my own sets of drawbore pins from their tapered punches. Their tarps have been great for stacks of slabs and lumber I’ve air dried. Their C Clamps have done well for me in locking steam bends to forms. A box of acid brushes or tongue depressors have a thousand uses. We can see these truths across home needs, shop types, and shop synergies. Be it Powertool/Hybrid/Handtool Shops and Renter/Owner/Renovator DIYers, we can all benefit from HF. 🫡
I used to give each of my clients one of the 2-inch Harbor Freight paint brushes for every computer workstation I installed. Rather than using expensive canned air, I showed them how to simply brush the keyboard and screen at least once per week.
Many years ago, when their were only two choices for power tools at HF ( you either got Chicago Electric or you got nothing ), I got the CE 4" angle grinder. As a time reference, it was blue and 14.99 lol. Used that baby HARD several days per week. Finally gave up the ghost after way over ten years. It was a beast. Went and replaced it with another, only reddish in color and a few bucks more. Don't do all that hard work anymore, but she's been a go-er for maybe ten years now. I've outfitted much of my shop with HF over the last 25 years or so. Compressor (stand up), drill press, grinder, sanders, paint sprayer, acoustic sprayer, clampsclampsclamps, lightslightslights, die grinders, air nibbler, LOTS of consumables, garden tiller, come along, hand winches, floor jack, chainsaws, trimmer, brake/press/slip roll ( stolen last year :( ), metal fabrication roller, etc. The only one I wore to death and had to replace was that angle grinder. Last year I got a plunge router and one of their green welders. A few months ago, the big Icon ratchet/socket set. While I've bought wood chisels, block plane, etc. there in a pinch, I try to keep my cutting tools like that to vintage yard sale or swap meet finds for the steel quality. I have yet to buy any of their cordless/battery tools. My Dewalts are hanging tough. I have a few of their hard cases, their semi-pelican rivals, and fully endorse their quality and ruggedness. I don't buy everything there, but what I have has served me well.
My father in law is a contractor, I was working with him on a few things over Christmas break last year. He had a Hercules combination miter saw, and it worked quite well for the quality.
I buy lots of stuff at Harbor Freight but I found that the Skil compound dual bevel miter and 10” table saw had all the features I wanted for only a negligible amount more cost. I can’t recall if the Hercules table saw has a rack and pinion fence or not but that’s a big reason I went with the Skil table saw. Dewalt was the only other one I found that had it but $200-300 more expensive. I wish Harbor Freight had a track saw…not that I need any more saws lol
@@jonhawkins2374 They usually have it on a table in the front, or on shelves in a back corner, or possibly on the end caps of the aisles. Easiest way to find them if they don't have a sign out is look for items that are out of their department. Like if you are cruising through automotive and you suddenly see a router or what have you, you just found the closeout shelves! They'll mark it on the price tags.
Homeowner with some rental properties here. After a decade dealing with a set of consumer-grade Black & Decker 12-volt tools, I decided to replace them. I weighed a number of brands (looked at price/performance, warranty, suitability for my use case) and went with Harbor Freight's Hercules 20-volt system. Quality seems to range from pretty decent to surprisingly good, and I've had no issues or complaints.
I have the same Central Machinery desktop belt sander & got totally frustrated by the lack of power (stalling the belt). I finally fit a washing machine motor on it and now it works like a dream!
I got a warrior rotary sander, and that thing works flawlessly. It's like $40, and it has 7", or 6" disk options, and I love that thing. I use it to rough sand plywood, even out bench tops, and even do some close to finish grit. Their Hercules random orbital sander vibrated so much, I thought my hand was going to catch fire, but the rotary sander is by far the best rough sander I have ever used.
A plastic container with a lid from dog food, CA glue, and a couple of rare earth magnets works well for holding small items. The lid helps reduce lost parts.
A tool you didn't mention, but one I love out of all proportion to what it should be worth. Their magnetic paper towel holder. SKU 56454 Sounds stupid and needless, but SO convenient when working on the car or projects outside. Temporarily put your paper towels RIGHT where you need them as long as there is sheet steel there. (even UNDER the car stuck to the engine block when I was working on the power steering rack once!) So much better than crawling back and forth out from under just to clean something . Depending how close to each other you put the two ends, you can adjust the tightness so the paper towels don't unroll when you pull one off too. (and ... they doubled as a temporary fridge handle when ours broke once) 🙂 Very much agree with the transfer punch set. Sooooo useful, I use them much more than I ever thought I would. Disagree with their ratcheting bar clamps. You say not to expect much clamping force ... Why buy a tool that doesn't do the job expected of it. My dewalt and irwin ratcheting bar clamps do everything those can do, and can provide MUCH more force when I ask it of them. I have 4 Harbor freight compressors ... all still work. Bought a pancake years ago, eventually decided I needed more CFM and bought the 8 or 10 gallon one. (also many years ago) I eventually got tired of all the noise and got an "ultra-quiet" pancake just to fill tires and little jobs. SOOOO much quieter and better - Oh my god. I liked the quietness so much I splurged on a 10 gallon ultraquiet one a month or two later when it was on sale too. (A hint: If you ever have to use your compressor in coldish weather (under 50F or so) replace the oil with synthetic air compressor oil. Home depot (and other places) carries it. it will start MUCH more easily in the cold) I like their jacks in general, but will add a caution for the aluminum floor jacks. The aluminum jacks have no C - section (the flanges on their steel jacks) so they do NOT resist side force very well. Ok on perfectly level ground or on a slight hill if you are parked up and down the hill, but if parked sideways to even a slight slope they will bend. (yeah, I know, not the best/safest idea in general, but if that's the way the driveway slopes, you have no other choice ... and it was only a slight slope, not much at all) Eventually splurged on their off road jack and looove that one. (even though it's very expensive.)
I love Harbor Freights $10 angle grinders. I do a lot of grinding on a daily basis and I own multiple expensive angle grinders so I know the difference. For me, I usually pick up my cheap one because they are really small and most importantly they are significantly lighter than any other brand. If you’re a regular grinder like me you’ll know how exhausting it can get when you’re swinging that thing around one handed for 30 minutes straight.
I used a 18v Black & Decker 3/8 inch cordless drill to run network and power cables in three (3) 12-lane gun clubs each with 3,000 sq ft Pro-shops, gunsmith shops, and various offices. None of the display counters or register locations or administration furniture had cable raceways. All furniture was constructed of 3/4 inch particle board. I had to drill holes for the passage of wiring underneath the counters. That was several years ago before I retired. Still have that little drill and have used it on many projects around the house and shop since. Saw most of the contractors around the building sites using Dewalt and Milwaukee. To each his own. I am now mostly in the Bauer line and have not had a regret when using any of the tools. Just used my Bauer rotary hammer with clay spade two weeks ago to set my own headstone. Yeah, may sound morbid but I always plan ahead. Don't want my kids to have any hassles when the time comes.
HF sells a cheap, somewhat flimsy aluminum bar clamp in various lengths. At the store I found them to have too much flex so I didn't buy any. However after viewing the Paul Sellers YT video "Retrofitting Aluminium Clamps," I may have to reconsider. He has a cheap, easy mod to vastly increase the strength and stiffness of the clamp. Cheap and easy are my two favorite things for anything related to tools.
I love that 1/2 inch breaker bar they have. I bought one for rebuilding stems on Cornelius kegs. It works great. They do have quite a few good bargins on specific items.
Very good advise overall. Any shop that doesn't have at least 20 of those magnetic hardware dishes is missing out. I have used them for years for everything from computer repair, woodworking, automotive, absolutely everything. They are worth their weight in gold.
Worth watching just to learn that transfer punches exist. I agree with your recommendations on the tools that we both have. HF has come a long way as far as quality especially with Bauer, ICON and Hercules. LOVE LOVE my Us General tool boxes, they are one of my best purchases ever.
I love harbor freight. I’m canadian and we don’t have them here but about once every two months or so I take a trip down to Burlington, Vermont which is about a three and a half hours drive from where I live to hit up Target, Trader Joe’s, Applebees and Harbor Freight lol
Great video so please don't take this as a negative comment, but I don't think you can do a video about HF without experience with the Bauer and Hercules brands. They have completely changed the landscape of HF tools. I absolutely love my Bauer tools. They occasionally have features that are not as good as the name brand or Hercules, but from a quality and value perspective, they can not be beaten! That is not to mention the quality of the ICON, Doyle, Daytona, Maddox, Titanium and Vulcan brands.
I completely agree with the concept and enjoyed the video. I don’t do any woodworking but I subscribed because I think there are still many things I can learn from you
I’m a retired Professional Woodworker and an all around DIYer I like. HF Breaker Bars , the Pittsburgh Breaker Bars impact Sockets , Some of their Air Sanders and NailGuns as I feel they all are. Good Values and work as they are Intended to do so those are tools I purchase for myself to use In my Home Shop non Professionally Professionally I Don’t have many of their Tools as I spend the Money for Pony Clamps and other Name brand ones IMO they are worth the cost ina effort to have the Quality you need. To rely on meeting deadlines for your Customers
I recently got a job working construction, it's been great going to harbor freight and being able to buy most of the tools (if not all!) I need for almost a 1/3 of the price than my coworkers tools. My coworker lost his mind when he used my "cheap harbor freight" level more than his on the job site! Haha Great video!
I've got many of those tools. If you watch, they'll occasionally offer extremely cheap (or sometimes "free gift") angle grinders, and I find having a few of them around is very nice. I don't have to stop and find the wrench to switch from cutoff to grinding to flap wheel.
I have a Bauer portable bandsaw and use Milwaukee blades( same length) and it has functioned excellently. Would definitely recommend for home welders or home projects.
I think the paint brushes from the Dollar Tree are the best buy for disposable brushes. I use them for touch ups of interior and exterior walls with latex paint. The trick to get good results is to stroke in the same direction (up and down) after applying the paint. When done, clean it up an use it again. When it get too gummed up with paint, throw it away and get another one. Less than $0.70 per brush for a two pack or $0.45 each for a three pack.
You should definitely look into the Hercules line. I own many brands of different power tools and recently purchase the Hercules Circular Saw, 1/2in Impact wrench, and 1/2in drill/driver and they blew my mind!
Probably the oldest HF tool I have is a 12v impact wrench that is corded and had jumpers to hook to a battery. I've had that thing since 04 and it still works. It was like $25 when I got it and its done everything from remove tires to pull stuck lawn mower blades. I've never regretted buying that. Unfortunately they don't make them anymore. More's the pity.
They have 12V impact wrenches in auto emergency kits that work differently from standard type impact wrenches, they spin up to a high speed before they engage the impact mechanism, and develop quite a wallop. Requires very little power and current from the battery because it accelerates it gradually to the high speed. Not much finesse to it, so you can't feather the throttle for different torques, so it's limited to applications where you don't need a light touch.
You forgot to include the 2 HP Dust Collector......Literally the best thing that you can buy from Harbor Freight as a Woodworker. I have two, mounted/hooked up in series, and I couldn't be happier, especially considering how much (or little) I've paid in comparison.
I have about 10 tools from HF. Tool chest, transfer punch, wheel choke, electric drain cleaner, tarp, pick, 6inch clamp, 2 saw horse, bandsaw, jack and stand. My main brand is milwaukee, ego and ryobi. Handtool is craftsmen and socket is milwaukee.
HF clamps are so exponentially cheaper then any other store/brand that I’ll happily use and replace them over spending twice as much for half as many clamps from elsewhere. Quantity has a quality of its own with clamps I’ve found too
I'll also say some of their lesser known tools are great values. I've got the Hercules 65 lbs breaker hammer, and it's every bit as good as the Bosch at half the price. Same with their larger demo hammers and hammer drills. Great tools, at good prices.
I started with a lot of cheap tools, everyone in my family does trades work, be it my brothers, or my uncles. I got a lot of crap from them for buying cheaper tools, they would go out spend $200-$300 on a small set of tools they only needed once every 3rd job site. Those high end tools always got stolen, or sold when they needed some money, no one steals cheap tools. So at the end of the day when folks had to ask for something it was always the cheap tools that saved the day. Best tool is the one you can afford
Yup. For any tool you're not worried about "build quality" for, HF is the way to go. That, and anything you typically throw out once you're done with it.
i have the HF confort grip knee pads ($10) and the hard terrain gel knee pads ($15ish). they stay in place, and i used them while kneeling in gravel with no issues. highly recommended
Bauer Cordless are awesome for a Pro like me to use at Home. I own a dozen of the 20 volt tools, most are over 5 years old and still running great! I just started buying the Hercules.
The Banks nail gun I bought from HF has lasted me 4 yrs of use and Im a remodeler.. 89.00 Just as good as any other nail guns I've ever bought. And the Bauer battery drills are just as good as the cheaper DeWalt brands
Love Harbor Freight! I don't own many of their power tools but I have picked up a few of their cheap grinders for when I'm doing something that's particularly dirty... Like widening cracks in asphalt before I fill them. This always gives me the option of just chucking the tool when I'm done with the job instead of spending hours cleaning it. Never had any problems with any of their hand tools. Good stuff. I don't really need the US general boxes so I picked up the Yukon 9 drawer boxes. I have three of them and thinking about picking up a couple more. Only thing that has kept me from buying any of the Bauer or Hercules battery tools is that I'm already invested in Ryobi and have no reason to change.
I have 2 of those trigger clamps from Harbor Freight and one of them did break on me, probably from putting too much pressure on it. however, I was able to fix it by simply replacing a pin in it and now it's as good as new. Harbor Freight's tools may not be the absolute best out they're definitely good enough, esp. for a hobbyist like me. I do pretty much all of my tool shopping at Harbor Freight because because I don't do any serious wood or metal working, I just tinker in my garage so Harbor Freight's tools do what I need them to do.
They recently did a deal: spend $40 and get a free cheapo angle grinder. They let you buy something for $40, take the free grinder, then immediately return the $40 item. So it’s just a free grinder. They had no problem with allowing me to do that. I’ve had two of those grinders, they are usually like $10 and they get really hot whenever I use it for more than a few minutes, and they bog down a little bit when using a wire brush and putting pressure on it, and start to smell like they are burning. One of them broke after like two months of use and the other one still works a couple months later. I definitely want to get a good quality replacement for it
You said something that I basically tell people all the time... About the plastic clamps you basically said use it within its limits. I have their low-end reciprocating saw I paid $19 for... I put good blades in it and I let the blade do the cutting. This $19 saw I have had for years. It may take a little longer to make the cut, but it works just fine for me every time...
I have a few Bauer and Hercules cordless tools. I'd recommend them for use around the house for sure. Hercules should hold up to professional work too and the brushless tools have a 5 year warranty, the batteries have a 3 year warranty. I'd say Bauer is pretty comparable to Ryobi, I used Ryobi for almost 20 years but I started switching to Bauer and Hercules because they are a better value, especially if there's a sale. Anything Icon I have tried has been great too, honestly they are nicer than a DIYer needs. The Pittsburg impact sockets are solid too, I haven't broken one but they have a lifetime warranty.
I have Milwaukee M18 fuel battery tools. I expect they will last at least a decade. I started into HVAC and could justify the cost. For cheaper I would get DeWalt. As I recall, it wasn't that much more than Hercules for better quality IMO. Lots of the HVAC install techs used DeWalt and swore by them. Didn't really see any Hercules battery tools on the job sites.
I was a mechanic for 20+ years and learned from my father. He always said that if you need a tool 2 times or more you need to buy it instead of borrowing it.
I have been buying Harbor Freight for decades. Typically, the tools I use most often are of higher quality from Tekton, Mac, or other Prosumer companies. Tools that are seldom used are almost always for Harbor Freight or sometimes Amazon. For auto work sometimes I rent for a parts store. People are surprised to hear the rentals are free other than a refundable deposit covering the tool’s purchase price for up to 90 Days.
Hammers. Specifically, their dead-blow hammers. I bought one of their larger ones almost five years ago now, and I've beat the hekk out of that thing. The head is just now starting to split, but at this point it's more than paid for itself. If you're buying a tool to beat up, buy a cheap one. That being said, I do have one of their automotive floor jacks, and an assortment of cheap wrenches and screwdrivers. Besides one of the flatheads that got snapped (my dad was using it as a small pry bar...) they've all held up to the rigors of diy mechanical work or home projects. I also recommend their tool stands. They're built the same as what you'll find at Menards or Home Depot, but they still cost less. I don't know about the differences in steel thickness, but they're usually rated for similar weight. I own a few, and they've been really good to me. What's better than buying cheap tools at Harbor Freight? Buying used HF tools at garage sales! I have that same belt/disc sander that I got for $15 from a garage sale, and that thing has held strong for the past several years since I've bought it. I've also bought an angle grinder for $8 that came from HF, and I've probably abused it almost as much as the aforementioned hammer. Still going strong for now. I also buy their tool bags quite often. They're cheap, and they are quite durable. I keep a basic set of tools in my car and my wife's car for emergency roadside repairs, and their small canvas tool bags tuck into corners of the trunk very nicely. Overall, I don't have much complaints with 99% of what I've purchased from Harbor Freight.
I needed a replacement for my B&D Mouse sander. Decided to go with the Bauer version and also bought a Random Orbit Bauer too since is was half off, they've both been great. Until recently I tended to avoid HF power tools but they seemed to have improved so I went for it.
Great tips. I think the key is buying something that is fit for purpose. I'm not brand loyal so everything I buy is evaluated against its competitors and has to earn a spot in my shop.
Regarding your drill, There is a Central Machine floor model drill press that also has the MT2 Taper Spindle. I'd advise staying away from the cross-slide vice if you don't have s taper spindle setup for the connection to the Jacobs Chuck. Trying to grove on something without one is just asking to destroy the spindle setup. The floor model drill press is showing currently at $399, it's an 'In Store Only' item. This may be an occasionally available item, and it's also an 'overweight' item, so if you buy one 'in store' and they have to order it in for you, they suggest there will be a $125 (or so) fee associated with that. At least I don't think it's applicable if it's already in store. If I'm not mistaken, it's advised to bolt this drill press into the floor. For that get the disposable level hammer drill and appropriate fasteners. (Unless you're already doing a lot of fastening things to the floor and need, and probably have, better equipment.)
I agree with this. Harbor Freight is like Temu. If you NEED quality, buy good. If you only need a job done, HF or Temu is ok. I would not buy Solar panels from HF but I would buy a screwdriver from them.
US General tool chests excellent value. If you have them loaded and move them around consider upgrading the wheels. Still a very good value. Hercules for prof use - doubtful. A decade ago I saw a comprehensive review and break down. 300 hour tool; a decade for a home owner. Only a year for heavy use by a prof. Use DeWalt (best value) or Milwaukee (best quality), maybe Makita... Earthquake floor jacks - excellent. I have the long reach low profile high lift 2 ton. A very versatile and well built floor jack comparable to Snap-on. Earthquake impact wrench air drive - excellent. Vulcan welders - good value. Icon ASD combo wrenches, a set of SAE and set of Metric (no skips in sizes). Independent tests show very high quality, great value.
Another note that wasn't mentioned in the video, all of Harbor Freight's hand tools carry a lifetime warranty. So if your screwdriver or pliers break, take it back and swap it for a new one. It's zero hassle, includes all brands, and you don't even need to bring a receipt just the broken tool.
The Harbor Freight Bremen bar clamps are wonderful, much better than the Pittsburg. I like my Bremen as much as my Dewalt or Jorgensen clamps (at about 60% the price).
I have the 5" ROS Bauer. I have used it quite a bit. My main gripe with the Bauer drill driver is that it has a half inch chuck. Maybe swapping with an after market 3/8 would be an option.
The blue six inch bar clamps are no longer as good as they used to be. The newer ones flex too much. The plastic ones, on the other hand, are much better than the older version.
You can stifen them with a piece of wood. I use 1x2 from the box store. You will need to plane or sand it down to size. It is a Paul Sellers idea. Good luck
While turning two trucks into one truck I went through about six angle grinders. All from Harbor freight. I punished them to death and rebuilt some of them. Now hearing about the grease I do believe I could’ve used that information then cause that ain’t something I thought of.
I have a number of the Hercules 20v tools. I prefer them to my Dewalt tools and they are half the price. Also the extra batteries are a fraction of the cost and have identical cells in them.
I’ve found that Pittsburgh brand sockets, ratchets and wrenches, made in Taiwan, are as good as any other brand. I have a Pittsburgh torque wrench and it hold pretty true.
I have a set of SK sockets (1/4" and 3/8” 6-point regular and deep, SAE & Metric) that I bought back in college 45 years ago. I also have Pittsburgh sockets. The SK sockets are beautiful and are far superior to the Pittsburgh sockets astetically and functionally. Sure Pittsburgh are good enough for many jobs, but if you are going to own a tool for 40 plus years, get something nice! YMMV. I have Grey Pneumatic 3/8" and 1/2” impact sockets from Amazon. Very nice for the price. I recently picked up the "SK 3/8" Drive Ratchet Handle, Pear Head, 90-Tooth Ratchet, Alloy Steel, with Contoured Handle" from Amazon. The feel, fit and finish, heftiness in my hand is superb. My tools give me enjoyment. Strip a few bolts and you'll wish you had the good stuff. YMMV. Cheers!
I buy some things from HF. Screwdrivers, clamps, and a several other tools too. I also picked up a US General tool cabinet/chest combo that is great. I don't think any other brand compares, for the same amount of money. On the other hand, I saw a HF angle grinder short out, and shock the user, within the first hour of use. And I won't buy anything that my life depends on, from HF. Things like a floor jack, and jack stands. I'll gladly spend the extra money there. Or even a welding helmet...I went top of the line there, too.
I have the Hercules 12” sliding miter saw and their cordless impact driver, 1/2” hammer drill, compact router, ultra torque impact, and the fixed/plunge router. I am more then impressed by them. Would I buy again, in a heartbeat. I use Dewalt at work and the Hercules is every bit as good and even better with a couple of them.
Great commentary & recommendations! I have a few of their items. And what’s you lite suggestions concerning the life span of the structural integrity of air compressors. And what should someone look for. I have a craftsman pancake style.
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I purchased the Hercules compound miter saw as an upgrade to my old Dewalt miter saw and bought the stand for it. I couldn't be happier. I have the Bauer portable bandsaw. That's another tool I'm quite happy with. Harbor Freight has definitely improved their quality.
Sounds like some great upgrades! Solid choices 😊
I have the same saw, and I’m just as happy as you. But I got even happier after I got the aftermarket dust collector from Shop Nation.
I’ve been looking at Bauer’s new drill press, Ty you for the heads up. I personally like that brand.
The stands are a real deal.
Their grinders are shit. Been through 2
May i add: drop cloths, moving blankets, paint trays, other consumables, doo dads such as solar garden lights, light duty garden tools , and stuff you scatter all over the house such as the tiny flashlights. Great video.
I dont buy much from HF, but as a self employed welder for 10+ years that keeps track of how much value I get out of my consumables I will say this. Their cutoff disc's for grinders dont really wear down much faster than most other name brands, but are definitely cheaper. The cutting disc are so thin, that everybodys wears about the same and at most if it wears out 25% faster, they're still at least 50% or more cheaper. So those are cost effective to use.
Now their flap disc's are the opposite. If you need those, go to your local welding supply to buy them. They are about twice the price but are around 3 times as thick and last about 4 times longer, making them more cost effective. The ONLY time I would buy them at HF is if there is a ridiculous sale or coupon on them because they wear out so quickly.
And to touch on the grinder that you mentioned for metal work. Unless you're working on the pipeline, a 4 1/2" grinder will do about anything you need around the shop and will be lighter and fit in tighter spots. Leave the 6" grinders to those doing industrial or pipeline work.
I got the 2 ton shop crane on sale for $200. It folds up into a small footprint and has been very handy, along with the 1 ton chain hoist for $80. They have been really useful when loading and unloading heavy items into my truck bed. Also, I can put the harness on my dog and lift him up into the air when it’s time to hose him down and then he can’t run away!
I enjoy finding old tools and restoring them. I also have a bunch of harbor freight tools. I've been happy with them.
Totally agree with your intro on why it’s good to buy from HF sometimes. My general rule is if I need quality and/or precision, I go with more well-known brands. If I just need something to get the job done or an entry-level tool (because I’m not sure if it’ll become a permanent fixture in my garage), I’ll check out HF first.
I’ve bought a bench grinder, drill press, bench sander, clamps, and chisels, all of which are good enough to get the job done or get me 90% there. And if I ever realize the tool is becoming a staple in my shop, then I upgrade the tool and have a spare now for quick and rougher jobs.
Awesome video
Glad you liked the video! I love hearing how others use HF tools. Your method of starting with Harbor Freight and upgrading as needed is a great approach. Thanks for sharing! 😊
Clear true and no fan boy name calling. Thanks for this one. I bought a few of their 12v Hercules tools because they were lighter than the many orange brand 18v tools I have had for years. When I’m working over head the lighter weight allows my damaged shoulders to last more than an hour. The battery life of the Hercules 12v is outstanding. I put half of a metal roof on my shop with one battery… that was nearly 300 2 and 3 inch screws. I still love my orange tools but the blue is worth a look.
Brother you said it perfectly. There are plenty of tools that you don't need to absolutely count on, and that's where HF comes in real handy. Something I use everyday and depend on, that's going to be well-built and worth the investment. Something I rarely use that gets the job done, we're safe to cut a corner or two.
I have 10+ Bauer and Hercules power tools, and I find they r able to go head-on with my Dewalt tools. None of them have failed on me in over 1 year of almost daily/weekly use. And I abuse them more than my more expensive Dewalt line of tools. One thing I would recommend is getting the 2 yr extended warranty on power tools. This allows a no hassle replacement (NOT repair) within any HF store ( no waiting/shipping). Also recommend to buy using their coupons which come out weekly.
Been using the Bauer palm router for 5 years now and it's been amazing. Hasn't let me down yet. At the time it was $72.compared to over $100 for a DeWalt
Overbuilt tools, as well as underbuilt tools are a very real thing. As a ~95% handtool only shop, most of the limited power tools I have for household maintenance are about right or overbuilt (i.e. the dewalt 12v drill & driver set is just about right for my home needs and will probably last the remainder of my life of ~25 years). My dewalt lunchbox planer is just right but is really only used in dimensioning after I’ve face jointed one side first (with good maintenance it’ll last me till I die too). As a byproduct, it’s only really used as a ‘shop’s apprentice’. A set of carbide knives is a great investment because I don’t depend on it for final surface for anything and the long lasting dimensioning legs is well worth it. Some guys are better with the HSS knives and changing them out more often to keep their surfacing in peak condition. In my case, if so have a nick in a knife, it’s really not a big deal for a long time. A set of chisels for the hybrid woodworker can vary depending on what he thinks he needs, but by and large, he’s not going to demand or need to demand as much from them as guys like me do. A guy who occasionally breaks out a No°5 or block plane to edge joint a short box side, clean up endgrain, or chamfer and edge isn’t going to need the quality and exacting level of someone who spends hours with a No°6/Foreplane in his hands just to dimension once it used more than any other plane I have. I use Harbor Freight the same way the rest of you guys do for buying a tool I’ll use a few times or once every few years (20 ton bottle jacks, a hammer drill, 50’ drain snake, etc… as examples). But also they are handy for some consumables. Like you, transfer punches have come in handy when building tools; in my case two sets of transfer punches sine I’ve used them for alignment. I’ve made my own sets of drawbore pins from their tapered punches. Their tarps have been great for stacks of slabs and lumber I’ve air dried. Their C Clamps have done well for me in locking steam bends to forms. A box of acid brushes or tongue depressors have a thousand uses.
We can see these truths across home needs, shop types, and shop synergies. Be it Powertool/Hybrid/Handtool Shops and Renter/Owner/Renovator DIYers, we can all benefit from HF. 🫡
I used to give each of my clients one of the 2-inch Harbor Freight paint brushes for every computer workstation I installed. Rather than using expensive canned air, I showed them how to simply brush the keyboard and screen at least once per week.
Many years ago, when their were only two choices for power tools at HF ( you either got Chicago Electric or you got nothing ), I got the CE 4" angle grinder. As a time reference, it was blue and 14.99 lol. Used that baby HARD several days per week. Finally gave up the ghost after way over ten years. It was a beast. Went and replaced it with another, only reddish in color and a few bucks more. Don't do all that hard work anymore, but she's been a go-er for maybe ten years now.
I've outfitted much of my shop with HF over the last 25 years or so. Compressor (stand up), drill press, grinder, sanders, paint sprayer, acoustic sprayer, clampsclampsclamps, lightslightslights, die grinders, air nibbler, LOTS of consumables, garden tiller, come along, hand winches, floor jack, chainsaws, trimmer, brake/press/slip roll ( stolen last year :( ), metal fabrication roller, etc. The only one I wore to death and had to replace was that angle grinder.
Last year I got a plunge router and one of their green welders. A few months ago, the big Icon ratchet/socket set.
While I've bought wood chisels, block plane, etc. there in a pinch, I try to keep my cutting tools like that to vintage yard sale or swap meet finds for the steel quality.
I have yet to buy any of their cordless/battery tools. My Dewalts are hanging tough.
I have a few of their hard cases, their semi-pelican rivals, and fully endorse their quality and ruggedness.
I don't buy everything there, but what I have has served me well.
My father in law is a contractor, I was working with him on a few things over Christmas break last year. He had a Hercules combination miter saw, and it worked quite well for the quality.
I buy lots of stuff at Harbor Freight but I found that the Skil compound dual bevel miter and 10” table saw had all the features I wanted for only a negligible amount more cost. I can’t recall if the Hercules table saw has a rack and pinion fence or not but that’s a big reason I went with the Skil table saw. Dewalt was the only other one I found that had it but $200-300 more expensive. I wish Harbor Freight had a track saw…not that I need any more saws lol
I'm a Harbor Freight fan! Especially finding things that are marked down or open box...just purchased a scroll saw(open box) for $44
Nice find! Open box deals can be such a steal. Thanks for watching btw! 😊
What , how do you get that just walk in the store and look around for deals 😮😮😮😮?
Oh yeah, those deals are the sweetest in the store!
@@jonhawkins2374 They usually have it on a table in the front, or on shelves in a back corner, or possibly on the end caps of the aisles. Easiest way to find them if they don't have a sign out is look for items that are out of their department. Like if you are cruising through automotive and you suddenly see a router or what have you, you just found the closeout shelves! They'll mark it on the price tags.
Homeowner with some rental properties here. After a decade dealing with a set of consumer-grade Black & Decker 12-volt tools, I decided to replace them. I weighed a number of brands (looked at price/performance, warranty, suitability for my use case) and went with Harbor Freight's Hercules 20-volt system. Quality seems to range from pretty decent to surprisingly good, and I've had no issues or complaints.
I have the same Central Machinery desktop belt sander & got totally frustrated by the lack of power (stalling the belt). I finally fit a washing machine motor on it and now it works like a dream!
I got a warrior rotary sander, and that thing works flawlessly. It's like $40, and it has 7", or 6" disk options, and I love that thing. I use it to rough sand plywood, even out bench tops, and even do some close to finish grit. Their Hercules random orbital sander vibrated so much, I thought my hand was going to catch fire, but the rotary sander is by far the best rough sander I have ever used.
A plastic container with a lid from dog food, CA glue, and a couple of rare earth magnets works well for holding small items. The lid helps reduce lost parts.
Thanks for dragging out all your HB tools into one screen. That’s quite a collection.
Hahaha
A tool you didn't mention, but one I love out of all proportion to what it should be worth.
Their magnetic paper towel holder. SKU 56454
Sounds stupid and needless, but SO convenient when working on the car or projects outside.
Temporarily put your paper towels RIGHT where you need them as long as there is sheet steel there.
(even UNDER the car stuck to the engine block when I was working on the power steering rack once!)
So much better than crawling back and forth out from under just to clean something .
Depending how close to each other you put the two ends, you can adjust the tightness so the paper towels don't unroll when you pull one off too.
(and ... they doubled as a temporary fridge handle when ours broke once) 🙂
Very much agree with the transfer punch set. Sooooo useful, I use them much more than I ever thought I would.
Disagree with their ratcheting bar clamps. You say not to expect much clamping force ... Why buy a tool that doesn't do the job expected of it. My dewalt and irwin ratcheting bar clamps do everything those can do, and can provide MUCH more force when I ask it of them.
I have 4 Harbor freight compressors ... all still work.
Bought a pancake years ago, eventually decided I needed more CFM and bought the 8 or 10 gallon one. (also many years ago)
I eventually got tired of all the noise and got an "ultra-quiet" pancake just to fill tires and little jobs. SOOOO much quieter and better - Oh my god.
I liked the quietness so much I splurged on a 10 gallon ultraquiet one a month or two later when it was on sale too.
(A hint: If you ever have to use your compressor in coldish weather (under 50F or so) replace the oil with synthetic air compressor oil. Home depot (and other places) carries it. it will start MUCH more easily in the cold)
I like their jacks in general, but will add a caution for the aluminum floor jacks.
The aluminum jacks have no C - section (the flanges on their steel jacks) so they do NOT resist side force very well.
Ok on perfectly level ground or on a slight hill if you are parked up and down the hill, but if parked sideways to even a slight slope they will bend.
(yeah, I know, not the best/safest idea in general, but if that's the way the driveway slopes, you have no other choice ... and it was only a slight slope, not much at all)
Eventually splurged on their off road jack and looove that one. (even though it's very expensive.)
I love Harbor Freights $10 angle grinders. I do a lot of grinding on a daily basis and I own multiple expensive angle grinders so I know the difference. For me, I usually pick up my cheap one because they are really small and most importantly they are significantly lighter than any other brand. If you’re a regular grinder like me you’ll know how exhausting it can get when you’re swinging that thing around one handed for 30 minutes straight.
I used a 18v Black & Decker 3/8 inch cordless drill to run network and power cables in three (3) 12-lane gun clubs each with 3,000 sq ft Pro-shops, gunsmith shops, and various offices. None of the display counters or register locations or administration furniture had cable raceways. All furniture was constructed of 3/4 inch particle board. I had to drill holes for the passage of wiring underneath the counters. That was several years ago before I retired. Still have that little drill and have used it on many projects around the house and shop since. Saw most of the contractors around the building sites using Dewalt and Milwaukee. To each his own. I am now mostly in the Bauer line and have not had a regret when using any of the tools. Just used my Bauer rotary hammer with clay spade two weeks ago to set my own headstone. Yeah, may sound morbid but I always plan ahead. Don't want my kids to have any hassles when the time comes.
Respect.
HF sells a cheap, somewhat flimsy aluminum bar clamp in various lengths. At the store I found them to have too much flex so I didn't buy any. However after viewing the Paul Sellers YT video "Retrofitting Aluminium Clamps," I may have to reconsider. He has a cheap, easy mod to vastly increase the strength and stiffness of the clamp. Cheap and easy are my two favorite things for anything related to tools.
I bought two and the casting snapped near the threads on both of them... Caveat Emptor.
I clamped up an 8/4 7ft table with those clamps.... they worked fine...
@@harlanbarnhart4656 they do have a lifetime warranty
Excellent video. Thank you for sharing.
I love that 1/2 inch breaker bar they have. I bought one for rebuilding stems on Cornelius kegs. It works great. They do have quite a few good bargins on specific items.
Very good advise overall. Any shop that doesn't have at least 20 of those magnetic hardware dishes is missing out. I have used them for years for everything from computer repair, woodworking, automotive, absolutely everything. They are worth their weight in gold.
I have three of them attached to the underside of my toolbox.. next time they are on sale I'll get a 4th one
I use them in my sewing room. Sooo handy for pins, needles etc
Kitchen here - little metal clips that I use to re-close freezer bags small chip bags, & such. Right on the fridge where I use them.
Worth watching just to learn that transfer punches exist. I agree with your recommendations on the tools that we both have. HF has come a long way as far as quality especially with Bauer, ICON and Hercules. LOVE LOVE my Us General tool boxes, they are one of my best purchases ever.
I love harbor freight. I’m canadian and we don’t have them here but about once every two months or so I take a trip down to Burlington, Vermont which is about a three and a half hours drive from where I live to hit up Target, Trader Joe’s, Applebees and Harbor Freight lol
Great video so please don't take this as a negative comment, but I don't think you can do a video about HF without experience with the Bauer and Hercules brands. They have completely changed the landscape of HF tools. I absolutely love my Bauer tools. They occasionally have features that are not as good as the name brand or Hercules, but from a quality and value perspective, they can not be beaten! That is not to mention the quality of the ICON, Doyle, Daytona, Maddox, Titanium and Vulcan brands.
I completely agree with the concept and enjoyed the video. I don’t do any woodworking but I subscribed because I think there are still many things I can learn from you
I’m a retired Professional Woodworker and an all around DIYer I like. HF Breaker Bars , the Pittsburgh Breaker Bars impact Sockets , Some of their Air Sanders and NailGuns as I feel they all are. Good Values and work as they are Intended to do so those are tools I purchase for myself to use In my Home Shop non Professionally Professionally I Don’t have many of their Tools as I spend the Money for Pony Clamps and other Name brand ones IMO they are worth the cost ina effort to have the Quality you need. To rely on meeting deadlines for your Customers
I’ve had that same grinder for over 20 years and use it regularly.
I use a Craftsman disc & belt sander for making knives. The disk is very aggressive and saves time.
I was really pleased with their sheet rock lift.
Good vid. Appreciate the in-video links and the prices. Makes it easy.
I have the Hercules 10 in Table saw and 12in miter saw. Love them!!
I recently got a job working construction, it's been great going to harbor freight and being able to buy most of the tools (if not all!) I need for almost a 1/3 of the price than my coworkers tools.
My coworker lost his mind when he used my "cheap harbor freight" level more than his on the job site! Haha
Great video!
I've got many of those tools. If you watch, they'll occasionally offer extremely cheap (or sometimes "free gift") angle grinders, and I find having a few of them around is very nice. I don't have to stop and find the wrench to switch from cutoff to grinding to flap wheel.
My Bauer router and circ saw work beautifully
I have a Bauer portable bandsaw and use Milwaukee blades( same length) and it has functioned excellently. Would definitely recommend for home welders or home projects.
Hercules and Bauer are both worth their price. I own several and they have been outstanding.
I think the paint brushes from the Dollar Tree are the best buy for disposable brushes. I use them for touch ups of interior and exterior walls with latex paint. The trick to get good results is to stroke in the same direction (up and down) after applying the paint. When done, clean it up an use it again. When it get too gummed up with paint, throw it away and get another one. Less than $0.70 per brush for a two pack or $0.45 each for a three pack.
You should definitely look into the Hercules line. I own many brands of different power tools and recently purchase the Hercules Circular Saw, 1/2in Impact wrench, and 1/2in drill/driver and they blew my mind!
My favorite and safest buy is stubby wrench set.and have been using ball joint press for years.
Had one of those car jacks give out on me under load, thank God I wasn’t under it. Also their breaker bar is great.
Probably the oldest HF tool I have is a 12v impact wrench that is corded and had jumpers to hook to a battery. I've had that thing since 04 and it still works. It was like $25 when I got it and its done everything from remove tires to pull stuck lawn mower blades. I've never regretted buying that. Unfortunately they don't make them anymore. More's the pity.
They have 12V impact wrenches in auto emergency kits that work differently from standard type impact wrenches, they spin up to a high speed before they engage the impact mechanism, and develop quite a wallop. Requires very little power and current from the battery because it accelerates it gradually to the high speed. Not much finesse to it, so you can't feather the throttle for different torques, so it's limited to applications where you don't need a light touch.
I have the Hercules table saw, and it is great for my needs.
You forgot to include the 2 HP Dust Collector......Literally the best thing that you can buy from Harbor Freight as a Woodworker. I have two, mounted/hooked up in series, and I couldn't be happier, especially considering how much (or little) I've paid in comparison.
I have about 10 tools from HF. Tool chest, transfer punch, wheel choke, electric drain cleaner, tarp, pick, 6inch clamp, 2 saw horse, bandsaw, jack and stand. My main brand is milwaukee, ego and ryobi. Handtool is craftsmen and socket is milwaukee.
HF clamps are so exponentially cheaper then any other store/brand that I’ll happily use and replace them over spending twice as much for half as many clamps from elsewhere. Quantity has a quality of its own with clamps I’ve found too
The Hercules jack hammer works great. I have used it an several tough projects around the house.
I have that same grinder. I needed something to cut angle iron and rebar. Going on 7 years now ,no issues.
great tips! love hearing ways to make the already high value HF tools even more value!
I have the Hercules miter saw and I made my adjustments like you do with any saw. If it is off, I can’t tell it. It cuts extremely accurate.
I'll also say some of their lesser known tools are great values. I've got the Hercules 65 lbs breaker hammer, and it's every bit as good as the Bosch at half the price. Same with their larger demo hammers and hammer drills. Great tools, at good prices.
I started with a lot of cheap tools, everyone in my family does trades work, be it my brothers, or my uncles. I got a lot of crap from them for buying cheaper tools, they would go out spend $200-$300 on a small set of tools they only needed once every 3rd job site.
Those high end tools always got stolen, or sold when they needed some money, no one steals cheap tools. So at the end of the day when folks had to ask for something it was always the cheap tools that saved the day.
Best tool is the one you can afford
I always say that there is something to be said about cheap tools, they never go missing!
Yup. For any tool you're not worried about "build quality" for, HF is the way to go. That, and anything you typically throw out once you're done with it.
Thanks again for providing this type of information. I'm a fairly new hobby woodworker and appreciate you sharing your knowledge and experience.
Thanks for your support! I’m glad my experience can help out new woodworkers. 😊
Their Baur 4.5 inch grinders are like 20 to 25 bucks on sale. They are solid.
i have the HF confort grip knee pads ($10) and the hard terrain gel knee pads ($15ish). they stay in place, and i used them while kneeling in gravel with no issues. highly recommended
I work as a mobile mechanic in Louisville KY. I love my HF tools!
Bauer Cordless are awesome for a Pro like me to use at Home. I own a dozen of the 20 volt tools, most are over 5 years old and still running great! I just started buying the Hercules.
The Banks nail gun I bought from HF has lasted me 4 yrs of use and Im a remodeler.. 89.00
Just as good as any other nail guns I've ever bought.
And the Bauer battery drills are just as good as the cheaper DeWalt brands
the bauer electric hammer drill works fantastic.
Great info no fluff just common sense. Like the warrior grinder 10 bucks. Works great, don't need everyday do great buy. Thanks for info
Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching!
I have the same jack and love it.
Love Harbor Freight!
I don't own many of their power tools but I have picked up a few of their cheap grinders for when I'm doing something that's particularly dirty... Like widening cracks in asphalt before I fill them. This always gives me the option of just chucking the tool when I'm done with the job instead of spending hours cleaning it.
Never had any problems with any of their hand tools. Good stuff.
I don't really need the US general boxes so I picked up the Yukon 9 drawer boxes. I have three of them and thinking about picking up a couple more.
Only thing that has kept me from buying any of the Bauer or Hercules battery tools is that I'm already invested in Ryobi and have no reason to change.
I have 2 of those trigger clamps from Harbor Freight and one of them did break on me, probably from putting too much pressure on it. however, I was able to fix it by simply replacing a pin in it and now it's as good as new.
Harbor Freight's tools may not be the absolute best out they're definitely good enough, esp. for a hobbyist like me. I do pretty much all of my tool shopping at Harbor Freight because because I don't do any serious wood or metal working, I just tinker in my garage so Harbor Freight's tools do what I need them to do.
They recently did a deal: spend $40 and get a free cheapo angle grinder. They let you buy something for $40, take the free grinder, then immediately return the $40 item. So it’s just a free grinder. They had no problem with allowing me to do that. I’ve had two of those grinders, they are usually like $10 and they get really hot whenever I use it for more than a few minutes, and they bog down a little bit when using a wire brush and putting pressure on it, and start to smell like they are burning. One of them broke after like two months of use and the other one still works a couple months later. I definitely want to get a good quality replacement for it
You said something that I basically tell people all the time... About the plastic clamps you basically said use it within its limits. I have their low-end reciprocating saw I paid $19 for... I put good blades in it and I let the blade do the cutting. This $19 saw I have had for years. It may take a little longer to make the cut, but it works just fine for me every time...
I have a few Bauer and Hercules cordless tools. I'd recommend them for use around the house for sure. Hercules should hold up to professional work too and the brushless tools have a 5 year warranty, the batteries have a 3 year warranty. I'd say Bauer is pretty comparable to Ryobi, I used Ryobi for almost 20 years but I started switching to Bauer and Hercules because they are a better value, especially if there's a sale. Anything Icon I have tried has been great too, honestly they are nicer than a DIYer needs. The Pittsburg impact sockets are solid too, I haven't broken one but they have a lifetime warranty.
I have Milwaukee M18 fuel battery tools. I expect they will last at least a decade. I started into HVAC and could justify the cost.
For cheaper I would get DeWalt. As I recall, it wasn't that much more than Hercules for better quality IMO. Lots of the HVAC install techs used DeWalt and swore by them. Didn't really see any Hercules battery tools on the job sites.
I was a mechanic for 20+ years and learned from my father. He always said that if you need a tool 2 times or more you need to buy it instead of borrowing it.
Their bremen clamps are the way to go for trigger clamps, competes head to head with all the top brands for half the price.
I have been buying Harbor Freight for decades. Typically, the tools I use most often are of higher quality from Tekton, Mac, or other Prosumer companies. Tools that are seldom used are almost always for Harbor Freight or sometimes Amazon.
For auto work sometimes I rent for a parts store. People are surprised to hear the rentals are free other than a refundable deposit covering the tool’s purchase price for up to 90 Days.
Hammers. Specifically, their dead-blow hammers. I bought one of their larger ones almost five years ago now, and I've beat the hekk out of that thing. The head is just now starting to split, but at this point it's more than paid for itself. If you're buying a tool to beat up, buy a cheap one.
That being said, I do have one of their automotive floor jacks, and an assortment of cheap wrenches and screwdrivers. Besides one of the flatheads that got snapped (my dad was using it as a small pry bar...) they've all held up to the rigors of diy mechanical work or home projects.
I also recommend their tool stands. They're built the same as what you'll find at Menards or Home Depot, but they still cost less. I don't know about the differences in steel thickness, but they're usually rated for similar weight. I own a few, and they've been really good to me.
What's better than buying cheap tools at Harbor Freight? Buying used HF tools at garage sales! I have that same belt/disc sander that I got for $15 from a garage sale, and that thing has held strong for the past several years since I've bought it. I've also bought an angle grinder for $8 that came from HF, and I've probably abused it almost as much as the aforementioned hammer. Still going strong for now.
I also buy their tool bags quite often. They're cheap, and they are quite durable. I keep a basic set of tools in my car and my wife's car for emergency roadside repairs, and their small canvas tool bags tuck into corners of the trunk very nicely.
Overall, I don't have much complaints with 99% of what I've purchased from Harbor Freight.
Thanks for the information
Much appreciated
besides my pipe clamps all my other clamps are from HF, they get the job done and I've never run into a problem with them, I have roughly 30 HF clamps
I needed a replacement for my B&D Mouse sander. Decided to go with the Bauer version and also bought a Random Orbit Bauer too since is was half off, they've both been great. Until recently I tended to avoid HF power tools but they seemed to have improved so I went for it.
Excellent video and great advice on how to use and not use harbor freight!!!!! Thank you and
God bless you 🙏🏼❤️🇺🇸
Thanks so much!
Bremen squeeze clamps are great
Great tips. I think the key is buying something that is fit for purpose. I'm not brand loyal so everything I buy is evaluated against its competitors and has to earn a spot in my shop.
Regarding your drill, There is a Central Machine floor model drill press that also has the MT2 Taper Spindle. I'd advise staying away from the cross-slide vice if you don't have s taper spindle setup for the connection to the Jacobs Chuck. Trying to grove on something without one is just asking to destroy the spindle setup.
The floor model drill press is showing currently at $399, it's an 'In Store Only' item. This may be an occasionally available item, and it's also an 'overweight' item, so if you buy one 'in store' and they have to order it in for you, they suggest there will be a $125 (or so) fee associated with that. At least I don't think it's applicable if it's already in store.
If I'm not mistaken, it's advised to bolt this drill press into the floor. For that get the disposable level hammer drill and appropriate fasteners. (Unless you're already doing a lot of fastening things to the floor and need, and probably have, better equipment.)
Their caster wheels are fine, givem fresh grease they do great.
I agree with this. Harbor Freight is like Temu. If you NEED quality, buy good. If you only need a job done, HF or Temu is ok.
I would not buy Solar panels from HF but I would buy a screwdriver from them.
I love Harbour Frieght clamps
The Hercules line is gotdamn great
US General tool chests excellent value. If you have them loaded and move them around consider upgrading the wheels. Still a very good value.
Hercules for prof use - doubtful. A decade ago I saw a comprehensive review and break down. 300 hour tool; a decade for a home owner. Only a year for heavy use by a prof. Use DeWalt (best value) or Milwaukee (best quality), maybe Makita...
Earthquake floor jacks - excellent. I have the long reach low profile high lift 2 ton. A very versatile and well built floor jack comparable to Snap-on.
Earthquake impact wrench air drive - excellent.
Vulcan welders - good value.
Icon ASD combo wrenches, a set of SAE and set of Metric (no skips in sizes). Independent tests show very high quality, great value.
Another note that wasn't mentioned in the video, all of Harbor Freight's hand tools carry a lifetime warranty. So if your screwdriver or pliers break, take it back and swap it for a new one. It's zero hassle, includes all brands, and you don't even need to bring a receipt just the broken tool.
The Harbor Freight Bremen bar clamps are wonderful, much better than the Pittsburg. I like my Bremen as much as my Dewalt or Jorgensen clamps (at about 60% the price).
The Pro tig 205 is a solid tig welder from HF
I have the 5" ROS Bauer. I have used it quite a bit. My main gripe with the Bauer drill driver is that it has a half inch chuck. Maybe swapping with an after market 3/8 would be an option.
The blue six inch bar clamps are no longer as good as they used to be. The newer ones flex too much. The plastic ones, on the other hand, are much better than the older version.
You can stifen them with a piece of wood. I use 1x2 from the box store. You will need to plane or sand it down to size. It is a Paul Sellers idea. Good luck
@@Eric-rb7rgthose are the aluminum long clamps; he’s talking about the steel bar clamps. The weak point on the aluminum clamps is the cast iron screw.
Sensei
While turning two trucks into one truck I went through about six angle grinders. All from Harbor freight. I punished them to death and rebuilt some of them. Now hearing about the grease I do believe I could’ve used that information then cause that ain’t something I thought of.
I have a number of the Hercules 20v tools. I prefer them to my Dewalt tools and they are half the price. Also the extra batteries are a fraction of the cost and have identical cells in them.
I’ve found that Pittsburgh brand sockets, ratchets and wrenches, made in Taiwan, are as good as any other brand. I have a Pittsburgh torque wrench and it hold pretty true.
I have a set of SK sockets (1/4" and 3/8” 6-point regular and deep, SAE & Metric) that I bought back in college 45 years ago. I also have Pittsburgh sockets. The SK sockets are beautiful and are far superior to the Pittsburgh sockets astetically and functionally. Sure Pittsburgh are good enough for many jobs, but if you are going to own a tool for 40 plus years, get something nice! YMMV.
I have Grey Pneumatic 3/8" and 1/2” impact sockets from Amazon. Very nice for the price.
I recently picked up the "SK 3/8" Drive Ratchet Handle, Pear Head, 90-Tooth Ratchet, Alloy Steel, with Contoured Handle" from Amazon. The feel, fit and finish, heftiness in my hand is superb.
My tools give me enjoyment. Strip a few bolts and you'll wish you had the good stuff. YMMV. Cheers!
I buy some things from HF. Screwdrivers, clamps, and a several other tools too. I also picked up a US General tool cabinet/chest combo that is great. I don't think any other brand compares, for the same amount of money. On the other hand, I saw a HF angle grinder short out, and shock the user, within the first hour of use. And I won't buy anything that my life depends on, from HF. Things like a floor jack, and jack stands. I'll gladly spend the extra money there. Or even a welding helmet...I went top of the line there, too.
I have the Hercules 12” sliding miter saw and their cordless impact driver, 1/2” hammer drill, compact router, ultra torque impact, and the fixed/plunge router. I am more then impressed by them. Would I buy again, in a heartbeat. I use Dewalt at work and the Hercules is every bit as good and even better with a couple of them.
Great commentary & recommendations! I have a few of their items. And what’s you lite suggestions concerning the life span of the structural integrity of air compressors. And what should someone look for. I have a craftsman pancake style.