Harbor Freight tools gets a bad rap, as many craftsmen equate the store’s low prices with even lower quality.
While that may be true for some Harbor Freight tools, it’s not for all of them. In fact, I use quite a few at my shop on a daily basis, and couldn’t be happier with the results.
Here are 5 Harbor Freight upholstery tools that definitely don’t suck:
1. Drill Master Heat Gun
Every trim shop needs a good heat gun. In my shop, we use the Drill Master 1500 Watt Dual Temperature Heat Gun from Harbor Freight. For only $10, you’d be hard pressed to find a cheaper gun that works just as good.
The gun’s high/low feature lets you choose how hot you want it to blow — and quite frankly, that’s about the only feature I need from a heat gun. What I like most about this gun is that it has a simple design that does the job and isn’t easy to break.
Seriously, what more could you ask for from a heat gun?
2. Central Pneumatic Spray Gun
Buying this Central Pneumatic Heavy Duty Multi-Purpose Air Spray Gun was the best decision I’ve ever made for my shop. And it only cost $19.97.
For years, we used a 2 gallon pot with long hoses to spray glue, and it caused us a lot of frustration. The gun and hoses would constantly clog, forcing us to spend hours disassembling and cleaning parts. Finally, one day I said “screw it” and decided to try one of those cheapo suction-feed spray guns at Harbor Freight. I’ve never had a problem since.
Sure, the 32-ounce cup means I have to refill more often and it can be a pain to spray in tight spots, but relieving myself of clogged hoses makes it all worth it.
What’s more, these guns are built like tanks. I’ve dropped them on the ground, banged them into walls, dented their cups and still they keep on spraying. Beyond cleaning the tip with solvent, I’ve never had any issues.
I replace guns every 2 to 3 years, which isn’t bad at all considering the price.
3. Pittsburgh Aluminum Rulers
Harbor Freight carries a decent range of Pittsburgh aluminum rules that’ll cost you less than a cup of coffee at Starbucks.
I purchased a 48″ ruler for $5 and a 40″ ruler for less than $3. Both are everything a good ruler should be: straight, accurate, legible and their markings don’t easily scratch off. Best of all, the 40” one is the perfect size for making piping.
I would prefer if the markings were only in SAE instead of both SAE and metric, but that’s not a big enough issue for me to not use them.
Trust me, for the price, you won’t find better rulers.
4. Pittsburgh Steel Square
I know it sounds silly to compare squares, but hear me out.
Harbor Freight’s Pittsburgh 16” x 24” Steel Square only costs $10, but is comparable to ones that cost a whole lot more.
The steel is rigid, the markings are etched and the finish doesn’t wear off. And yes, of course, it’s a perfect 90-degree angle.
So why pay more for a square when you don’t have to?
5. Panel Clip Pliers
These Pittsburgh Panel Clip Pliers are great for removing interior panel clips without causing damage.
Simply slip the pliers behind a clip just as you would with any other clip tool. But instead of prying, just squeeze the handles together to pop out the retainer.
For $9, these pliers are a steal. Before discovering them, I paid almost three times as much for a brand-name set that’s handles were so uncomfortable I had to stop using them.
If you’re unfamiliar with panel clip pliers, you definitely need to add them to your tool box. They won’t disappoint.
@3.14covers here being fresh in the upholstery gig I went to Harbor freight for a moving blanket to protect my chity work. I ended up leaving with the blanket rollers square clip pliers and the 15$ spray gun (have 2 one for glue one for acetone to clean after every use) best decision I ever made being a broke sob. Year later everything is still 93.14% in perfect order. Best 50$ ive ever spent!
rulers not rollers…. yep im that guy
I’M.
LOL. You got him.
F n grammer police
I’m
If your going to make fun of someone for a spelling or grammatical error, you may first want to proof read what you’re going to post.
*you’re
Happens to all of us.
Wow are you sure you guys are old enough for tools? That’s first grade behavior just saying…
Damn, tough crowd.
If you would edify yourself move out of mommy’s basement and try to seek a hard level of education in this sixth grade you may have a chance to be a Walmart greeter
You got that right brother
I’m sure your husband loves you anyways…
Hmmm, maybe not!
Ur a dick shut up !!!! So. What he made his point correct spelling or not!!!!!!
You’re right! Anyone with common sense knows whT he was saying! I can’t stand the fucking grammar police! On a side note the predator pressure washer is one of the best I’ve ever owned!
Thank you for getting back to the subject at hand!
I’ve owned a Chicago combination saw for 30 years and has performed without any problems! Some of the HF tools are very good. Too bad we can’t make them here in the US.
“I’m” (im) has an apostrophe. It’s not grammatically correct. Like Jeff said if you’re going to be a jerk and make fun of someone, double check that you’re not more of an idiot than the person and post you criticized. Because your post looks like a high school girl wrote it in a tweet. Hope that made you feel better about yourself!
David,
It’s not the grammar police that’s the issue. It’s the stupidity of the people (like you) who use technology to create a pathetic use of nonverbal communication to belittle people when someone like you is either fat and lazy or just stupid and uneducated. I love keyboard bullies. You wouldn’t say that to his face or you might because you would be video recording the interaction so you can call the police and say you were attacked or harrassed. You’re pathetic man. You idiots are the reason contractors get bad reputations. Grow up
So me being stupid, sat here and read all the remarks about grammar.
At least I enjoyed my morning coffee.
Who cares how many mistakes in grammar. He made his point
I’m getting really tired of all the spell check shirt!!! BWAHAHA
These idiots are the same type as to why I lost my business and license to own a business! I HATE dumbass consumers like these guys! Bullying someone to the point of trying to commit suicide on a job because believe it or not words hurt and crush someone’s self esteem pretty bad!
Grammar police are inappropriate online when messages are made by texting and buy big man with large fingers out of phone made by small Asian folk. Especially when the half doesn’t allow editing.
I have an English degree and sometimes I fuss over these details, but my main role is to communicate not to be a perfectionist ass..
Poor spellers of the world unite!
I meant to say “poor spellers of the world untie” lol
Icon wrenches sold at Harbor Freight are super.
They are the best wrenches on the market short of spending ridiculous amounts of cash for very little in terms of upgrade,
Thanks. I will give them a try
I bought a Pittsburgh 1.5 tin floor jack and used it 1ctime andvwentbtonusecitcagain 4 months later and it broke.. there tools suck
That’s the trick with Harbor Freight tools. Use the hell out of it right after you buy it. If it survives it will probably last you years, if it doesn’t, return it and try again.
Exactly
They have extended service plans that are well worth the money but not only are you covered for 15 or 27 months…your licked into the price if the plan…you can exchange it in the time frame and you only pay for a new plan…be an educated shopper
With the warranty they sell, one can return item prior to the warranty runnimg out and get the next step up on the same tool, then only pay the price difference between the two amd purchase price of amother watrranty.. Well worth the money.!!!
Im with you John, ive killed tools from big bucks makers and i have harbor freight tools that last forever!!! Or 10 or 12 years!!
Exactly! I have had a few odds and ends fall apart on me but I got the two ton 99 dollar jack and its great use it all the time. My buddy has a shop and all he buys is harbor freight tools and for what you pay…. Who cares if one breaks! You can buy two for what anyone else would charge you for one!
Ummmm….”their”…hee, hee, I couldn’t resist. Sure, people, go ahead and celebrate mediocrity, as Tom Petty once sang. Contractor suicide? Please.
Spell check next time please. Yes some of their tools do suck and some are pretty good. Just like Home Depot tools or Lowes.
Grammar check next time, please. Learn comma usage.
After living and learning a long time I have come to have the opinion that some grammatically correct comments have poor content, while some with poor grammar and usage may have some common sense wisdom.
Look past the errors to find the gold.
Some, however, miss on all 3 counts. Sigh
Michael, we are talking tools here, do we really need the grammar Police!?
Gaaawd……..
Exactly
Agreed
Last thing I want to see is everyone trying to correct other people on here. If it bothers you that much go be a freaking teacher! Thanks for the comment pool boy. Clearly it was much needed
Lol. Some people are so anal about everything. Thats why they have no friends. Get the stick out of your rears and enjoy life
You all really have nothing better to do that bitch about one another’s spelling and grammar!?! Wow!! I honestly got interested from the beginning of all this because I really wanted to hear what someone’s, a business owners take was on harbor freight tools, that “don’t suck” was. … Is. OMG lol
I bought 2 of the orange 3 ton floor jacks back in 1994 when they first opened a store near me, one has been riding in the bed of my pickup since then, and never had an issue with either one in all these years, I think I paid 29.95 each..
If I can purchase a tool for $5.00 from Harbor Freight to fix a $10.00 problem, I would say it sounds like a good deal to me.
5 years and my 1.5 ton still in use
I couldn’t stand my 1.5 ton harbor freight jack. It works great but only lifts it up to an aggravating 14 inches which I couldnt even have a squashed midget get clearance to work under vehicle. Great jack for 90 bucks. Soo went back to harbor freight and bought the 250 dollar daytona 3 ton jack and now we’re cooking on needed lift height. But at 110 pounds I gotta use a dolly to move her around.
Or maybe just add the correct amount of hydraulic jack oil ,or brake fluid, trans fluid etc. Then just maybe it will pump up. Gotta be smarter than the tool.
I have an old orange 4 1/2″ handheld grinder from HF that’s over 21 years old. Still going strong!
Should have bought the warranty. It’s cheap and so easy you replace all item with them.
EXACTLY! People are “missing the boat” on HF. They have a “no-questions-asked” replacement-guarantee! I’ve been purchasing their small 900 watt generators for years. & after 12 months, I can turn it in & get a new one!
No wonder if its tin. Most would be steel or cast. LOLOL I have multiple tools from them, and have not has one fail me yet. ( knock on wood)
I bought their 1.5 ton floor jack about 9 years ago and it still lifts like a charm, assuming a charm lifts with great ease… Used it 2 days ago to change diff fluid, and it’s never let me (or my vehicles) down… There will be some defective units in any batch obviously, but I would buy another one without hesitation…
I noticed HF floor jacks are getting expensive.. i have Arcane and Michelin j3 ton acks from Costco for a lot less.
Sounds like you have a problem with your jack if it never lets your vehicles down.
LOL
Everything at HF is not of the same quality. They have some cheap tools that’ll get the job done when you’re in a pinch and don’t want to spend a lot. They have also better grades of tools, that are for the most part, much cheaper than the other brands with comparable and sometimes better quality. If you work with tools regularly, it’s not hard to gauge the quality of the choices they have available, and there’s plenty of customer feedback if you need a second or third opinion..
The stuff they make is made to break in less then a year so you have to buy more and more.
They do not make tools that last anymore because they would not have jobs or be in business long.
They use to make everything that lasted lonh time and years, but they found out that it was bad business…
I have one now for 5 years and still working well
Should have bought the Daytona I’ve been using it 2 years every day on 1 ton duallies
I bought a 5 gallon air compressor about 12 years ago. Caught it on sale. Still going strong. Only issue after 12 years is we had to replace the control box after the gasket finally gave out.
Lmao 93.14% so calculated
Started working there a few months ago part time to keep me from buying so much of their stuff. I have contractors and DYI’s getting stuff all the time. I don’t buy or recommend Icon because Pittsburg has a lifetime warranty at half the price and I have dealership guys buying them too. You’re not going to beat their price on tool chests either, especially if you catch them on sale. My Dad is a master mechanic and he doesn’t buy Snap On or Marco shit anymore. They don’t warranty their shit anymore but the hand tools at HF stand the test. I judge stuff by what I see come back and anything Predator never comes back. Much better than Black and Decker and on par with Honda and Kawasaki. Any power tool I buy is corded. Made the investment in my battery operated tools years ago and see no need to change now. Tools are reasonable. Batteries are not. Clamps are great, winches are not unless you bay the top of the line. Smaller one’s castings break under load while trying to bring the line back in. Most of the stuff that comes back us from morons who should wear a sign that says Stupid on it so we could save them from themselves. Don’t know how they survived to bring the shit back. One thing for sure I’d rather buy the tool and work it than sell the tool and not work it. But at least I get the employee discount but it’s still hard to control myself. I look at shit and say I’m going to need that in 2 months. Then 2 months later some other shit’s going on. Better to have snd not need than to need and not have I guess.
Am thinking about getting the Quinn digital torque wrench. Are those any good?
Yes !!! I love mine!
Keep your mind on the tools you are bragging about. This is not the high school spelling bee. It is also not career day at school.
Don’t you mean…. The best $53.14 you’ve ever spent?
Try the metal shears. Chicago Electric. The ones with the tiny blades. FANTASTIC for cutting panelboard.
The saws all too
They may be ok for some people but my self have had bad luck with everyone of there matter saws. Some parts missing some would not line up with square but like I said that’s me good luck to yall . As for as everything else so so not bad for price . And if something is wrong they will make it right . And THSTS A FACKT
I’ve used the Harbor Freight spray guns as glue guns for years and as you mentioned, they have been dropped banged around and still work. I’ll have to check out the ruler and square.
What size tip? Contact or yellow glue?
I use harbor freight spray guns and have for years as I have,used Chicago heat guns drop them all the time they keep working, plus I have their 48 in ruler
Vote TRUMP 2020
Dump Trump
Dump them all and start over.
Amen
They are ALL Fired !
The Pacific Hydrostar 50-ft powered drain cleaner is the perfect tool to drain the swamp
https://www.harborfreight.com/50-ft-commercial-power-feed-drain-cleaner-with-gfci-68284.html
Bruh!!
Dude, This is about harbor freight, not failed, fascistic, tiny-handed, daughter-perving, presidents. Go back to your maga hole.
Thank you!!
Thank you!
Why? Time for a change.
Fuck u and trump
You haven’t got a big enough tool to do that.
Yes very good
Amen! Prayers go out to OUR President for a speedy recovery from the CHINESE virus.
You’re an idiot.
You’re a bucket of turd water.
The circus is leaving town sorry.
That really worked out huh.
Fuck Trump
Trump sucks, he is lije a big bad spoul boy
He does nothing good
Maybe you need to go back to school to learn how to spell! Lol
I bet you spent the stimulus check you received because of President Trump unless of course you are not a US citizen in which case you need to go home.
Joyce,
Please read the constitution. The president does not determine fiscal policy, budgets and spending. That responsibility falls to congress.
Exactly
He does sign it though
You haven’t got a big enough tool to do that…..he did plenty good things…but the media doesn’t want you to know about that…just goes to show that your weak mind, believes everything the news says….baa, baa, baa
Mel. You’re a fucking pussy
Fuck off
José
Uh………try again……Dumb A**
At least the majority of this country sees we needed to DUMP TRUMP and get us back to the Founding Father’s idea for us…….Life, Liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Even if your poor and/not Caucasian. What a dip s***.
Better wake up MF
But, but, but, the election was stolen from Crime Boss Trump.
or at least thats what these red hat
(made in China by the way) wearing suckers keep telling me. LOL.
Too bad so sad he lost. He was always a loser when it came to morals. Unfortunately, instead of acting like he had some class, he is showing the world what a jerk he is. We will be lucky to survive as a county with all the things he is doing to the country since losing.
Be lucky to survive slow Joe the child molester
Fuck every Trump supporter in the ass. That’s sll the want.
Lesbo commie
Bunch of Gearheads not Grammar teachers 17 * 2
Trump makes too much money to be shopping at HF! let’s leave politics outta this great store!
Does he though? I mean, before he started holding all the government events at his properties and charging the American people for it.
U fkn idiot trump hasnt even taken a fkn paycheck eat a bag of dicks
I have a bridge I’ll sell you, since you’re a person of refined awareness……
I agree with you 100%, great job telling him! Lol
He makes a lot of money all right but he loses a hell of a lot more he’s a broke mother fucker 400 million dollars in debt narcissistic stroking sociopath was the hillbilly taste like backwash of a family incest buttphuck played out behind his idea of a natio al security a phuckn cement steel razor wall except he told us he cut the cost by building it from cement made from desert sand and replace the rebar with his ego and it last .44eveerrrrr on our borderrr!!!! Okay okay fuck lol sorry lil much
Yeah id vote for him ………..NOT duh well great he certainly has earned one.
With those little soft hands he probably does little but lift Big Macs into his mouth.
He makes a lot of money all right but he loses a hell of a lot more he’s a broke mother fucker 400 million dollars in debt narcissistic stroking sociopath was the hillbilly taste like backwash of a family incest buttphuck played out behind his idea of a natio al security a phuckn cement steel razor wall except he told us he cut the cost by building it from cement made from desert sand and replace the rebar with his ego and it last .44eveerrrrr on our borderrr!!!! Okay okay fuck lol sorry lil much
Yeah id vote for him ………..NOT duh
I like the jack stands
Be careful they had a recall on the 2 tons I think. Google it
Then had a recall on the ones they replaced the recalled ones with. First ones, the dog would pop out of position if the load shifted. The 2nd ones would break right down the weld on the side
I am thinking about picking up their Bauer 10 amp portable band saw its on sale now for $99. the reviews seem solid all suggest getting good blades. lenox and Milwaukee I think. wanted to get some more input good and bad.
Don’t do it unless you need it for a one-time use. No bushings in the wheels they wear out fast then the blade comes forward and cuts through the shield. Went through three then had a buddy at a machine shop install bronze bushings which are an odd size to boot. Then of course the reduction gear bearing seized up. Or buy extended warranty and keep exchanging them.
You can buy a milwaukee from offerup or market place. Same price brother
I use many of there tools for the price its gets the job done i have bought expensive tools n they break just the same
I bought a miter saw stand there for 55 bucks after discounts. It’s much more than expected at this price point! I won’t buy their power tools! I need reliability in the field. Makita or Hilti for my power tools.
The personal 3 way shop fans they have are really good as well I just bought one with the Chicago electric power tools heater attachment and it has worked wonders in my room.
Fuck Trump, driving this country in the dump, dumbass chump!
So you’d choose Biden whose “recovery plan” is tax the wealthy and let Antifa and BLM run? People like you are the reason Poptarts have instructions.
That’s one of the funniest things I’ve ever heard!!!
He’s better than a president that acts like a ten year old when he doesn’t get his way. The dumb ass can’t even read better than a ten year old. TRUMP IS ILLITERATE.
Trump os an example of what you don’t want your kids to be when they grow up.
Biden would sell out the US like Obama. His plans would cost way more than claimed, leaving the average people to pay for them.
Yep. Biden and the dems that follow would throw up the white flag of surrender to preserve themselves and their families. Dems are not fighters to the death. “They Cant handle the truth”. This U S. Marine from a class of 85 has seen it. Ooh rah.
So you are one of the losers and sucker’s trump has called people who belong to the military. DUMB ass trump. He’s an idiot and so are you for voting for him.
Ooh rah!
You’re not a real Marine. If you were you wouldn’t support a loudmouth coward draft dodger.
At least they aren’t Russian traitors. Anyone tried the drills?
The people earning over $400,000 will be the ones getting taxed more.
They are the ones that provide the jobs. Never got a job from a poor man.
Why do so many people have a problem with BLM? I don’t condone any violence but if you can’t see the reason why BLM was started to begin with then you need to remove your blinders.
Unfortunate that we have to bring politics onto this discussion though.
Spoken like a self hating idiot. If you haven’t figured out that the 3 women founders identify as MARXISTS and want to make the USA a MARXIST shizzz hole.
Any real car guy wouldn’t support a senile traitor who wants to end all fossil fuels.
You drink too much Kool aid
Agree. How are the cordless drills?
Fruit Punch is my favorite flavor
Blm was started by lesbians and founded by a white millionaire and thats who receives all the donations
Amen
I buy their impact sockets they’ve held up.
No. People like Trump are the reason lightbulbs come with instructions. And cock suckers like you are the reason he made it to the presidensy.
Fuck you ace
Really??? You pulled the light bulb joke when you can’t even spell correctly! Now who is illiterate?
Haha!
Mmmmm. . I like cock suckers a whole lot. However I don’t like the one in the Whitehouse.
Thumbs up Ace!!
Hysterical! Love it! But I’m a BLM Supporter. Not A liberal though! Conservative thru & thru
Amazing that people voted to elect a president that will become our demise.
Maga make automatics great again
Why are you ask- holes making this a political grandstand? Shut up and go whine on facebook.
Stop the downing of our President. Good or bad he is the President of our country. When you berate our President you make this country a third world country. And show your lack of respect, and your ignorance. Play nice like true American and not some sleazy jerk off.
What about when the President betrays our country like Trump has done.
Maga make automatics great again
I thought they were fake feed backs at first until I the trump crap popped up
My black mamba in my pants is the real deal and makes a slinky look small
There it is. We’ve peaked as a society.
Ya…f*ck off a*shole….there are PLENTY that are really good…
That’s my favorite place my favorite store nothing’s wrong with harbor freight they have good customer service they have great service and they always answer your question they’re there for us all so what that’s harbor freight making price what they want a price I love my store that’s why I buy most of my tools and things I do would work and they got everything that you need at their store I like the quality I love the tools because you always can take it back if it messes up I’m the customer and they treat me right they always there for you and get you tight thank you
I’m with you; I went to,the closest HF store to me ( about 35 miles away) to get their 12 ton shop press because the website showed it in stock and on sale at that store but when I got there it was put of stock; I spoke to the manager to see if it was possible to leave my email or phone number so that someone could contact me when they came in ( the sales associate told me they had 2 trucks coming over the next few days) so that I could drive back to get the press; the manager told me that he was sorry I had made the drive for nothing, and that if I wanted it they would sell me a 20 ton press for the same price as the 12 ton, which was already on sale…..needless to say I got the 20 ton; great customer service, and nice people….
I think harbor freight tools are great, I don’t use tools a great lot but when I need a new tool I run into harbor freight, they are a lot cheaper than any other place and it serves my purpose well. Not all people can afford the top known brand tools. I’m glad they’re here and offering people a option that is cheaper than other stores.
The multitool works well too. I will try it out with different blades this weekend.
I’m a mechanic and i have several matco, snapon, and other expensive tools. I use them everyday several times a day. I bought the panel clip pliers 2011 and used them uncountable times and still have them 2020 only hand grip just started wearing and they are still in great shape getting the job done.
See crappy hf tools bet if you spent 10x more on a snap on pair the handle grip would have lasted another month. F’n Republicans and there taxes… Figured I’d go way off subject like everyone else
Leave it to the idiots of this country to ruin a perfectly good product review..!
Isn’t funny when some people think they no what there talking about instead they know a dam thing have a great day.
You are right AJ I see them interject on every review, social media. Its a shame. No respect no love for their country. The X and Y generation are and will destroy the fabric of this country. Its a shame but they were programmed through their video games, teachers, and uncaring working parents. Intelligent but no morals, respect or loyalty except to their electronic toys.
Now have heard some things in my life but that was one of the all time greats
Love the store. Damn sick of going in for the sale items and there always sold out!! Then going in directly after their deliveries. Same thing.
The old bait an switch!!$
I purchased a Yukon tool cabinet. I got it home and unboxed it. It was badly damaged like it was dropped. I returned it and they gave me another one. Same thing the box looked fine but when it was unboxed it was damaged and a cabinet door was off . It looked like it was boxed damaged. They wouldn’t sell me the floor model. Very disappointed
I shop at Harbor Fright a lot. I never had a complaint out of anything i bought. Now the Boyor leaf blower when you buy one you got to buy the battery separate if they would sell both together they would sell a lot more. But other than all their products is great.
I have a set os ratcheting wrenches us them every week purchased over 10 years ago never failed me. I am a motorcycle mechanic
My experience with their tools has been great and not had to spend alot of money for them.
Don’t say battery chargers. There not worth a crap!
I have several of them! And,,, they work fine!
I worked as a professional mechanic for years and paid a great deal for the tools I needed. Since retiring, l decided to take up woodworking (in a city that has a Harbor Freight) so I decided to try out their clearly less expensive tools and equipment. Although I have had a few problems with some of my purchases, I have always found their staff to be most helpful. All and all, very satisfied.
You just have to be selective at Harbor Freight. Some things suck, and others are great. They are good for things that don’t require good engineering or manufacturing. That being said, the tool carts/boxes are absolutely amazing.
Ive got several sockets and wrenches from Harbor freight. Got lots of snap on too ive replaced more impact sockets from snap on than i have harbor frieght you just got watch the thickness of the tools they are like any other tool they all break when used alot
I recently purchased a 20. Volt Bauer chainsaw ,charger and battery. Even with the extended warranties it was around 100 dollars. I’ve used it a number of times and am very pleased.
I use their pneumatic air ratchets and impact guns and theyre just as strong and last just as long as snap on as long as you maintain them properly.
I have a wood shop!! I use harbour freight equipment, hand tools power tools and much more. You have to pay attention to what you are buying. I have a drill press, a lathe And many other hand tools that I have bought from harbour freight!!!!
And they work just fine. If you cannot decide the quality of the tool you are Assessing to purchase Then come you should not be by any tools
I hate spell check on my phone
i don’t think your phone HAS spell check!
I bought a 4″ angle grinder from HF three years ago. The first time I used it, it smelled like it was about to burn up. That grinder is still going strong! I have two of their 18v. cordless drills and have not had a bit of trouble from them. I really like everything I have bought from HF.
I’m a do it yourself kinda guy. I have my modest little home shop and 99% of my tools came from harbor freight. In the last 6 years I’ve spent approximately $35,000.00 at harbor freight on tools and have only had to return 3 pieces. I use their generators and can’t say enough about their wire fed welders. I’ve used approximately 80 spools of wire in the one I have and haven’t had a bit of trouble with it. I’m a former mechanic by trade and ill never step on a snap on truck again as long as harbor freight is still in business
Honestly, there are a lot more tools than that which are great for the money.
I had a really gnarly job and needed an affordable reciprocating saw. I paid 16 dollars back in the day, I completely abused that saw way beyond the scope of what it was designed to be used because that’s what this particular job called for. I figured if it lasted the job, it was worth the investment.
Shit, that saw lasted for almost a decade after that, and it was stolen before it ever got the chance to die on me… Might still be alive and well somewhere.
Also, 10 gauge extension cords for 20 dollars? You can’t beat that.. Saw saw blades for 9… Grinding wheels for a dollar… Tarps, cordage, lines, chains, hydraulic jacks….. Pry bars.. Hammers… HVAC gauges… I mean the list goes on. I still use their reciprocating saws…
Bought the new predator 8,400 watt generator… Run the shit out of it all the time, keep the oil changed.. Never lets me down.. Going on 2 years now.
Don’t get me wrong I have preferences on other tools like Milwaukee & Makita drills and drivers… Grizley industrial planers, belt sanders, grinders… Delta industrial band saws, and other various shop tools. There are certain cut in paint brushes I’m partial to, but sometimes all you need is a .79 cent Harbor Freight disposable paint brush for something. If I don’t want to fuck up my 2 hundred dollar Milwaukee drill, guess what? I’m using an affordable harbor freight corded drill… And I don’t return it after im done fucking it up… If it survives I’ll save it for the next bullshit job.
Anyways, the point I’m trying to make is that people who constantly trash Harbor Freight typically don’t know what fuck they’re doing or talking about… Those are the typical home owner DYI, project experimenting, people who don’t have any formal education, training or work experience with tools. They don’t even know how to identify tools, yet alone use them. They just don’t know. They don’t know what the fuck they’re talking about, and they just run that little cock sucker they got. They don’t use tools enough to know what the value of certain tools are.
Completely agree with you. Took a part time job there, figured I’d do less financial damage to myself on the other side of the counter. I have a lot of their tools, some of which I haven’t even had time to put together. I judge their products now based on what I see returned. Most of the shit that comes back are from people who obviously don’t know what the fuck they’re doing. I don’t buy Icon hand tools because Pittsburg has a lifetime warranty and they stick to their guns about replacing them, which doesn’t happen often. Predator generators and motors are better than Black and Decker any day and are on the same par as Honda or Kawasaki. Don’t have any of their battery power tools. Made the investing another brand years ago and no use switching now. If you take your time to inspect what you’re buying and don’t have any illusions about getting what you pay for then you’re good to go. One thing for sure I’d rather be buying and working the tools than working and. buying the tools. Retired now, just do it for shits and grins. Meet some pretty knowledgeable people and a few assholes to boot.
I’ve been happy overall with tools I get from HF. I work on my cars so I get socket sets and air related tools. I got their retractable air hose mounted near the ceiling about 5 years ago and still working fine. Hose can be better quality tho. But prices aren’t what they were like from years ago. Some items can cost more than name brand. I recently got a dewalt 24v 750 ft-lb bimpact wrench that was on sale for 199 at HD. A similar tool at HF was a lot more. Same with their floor jacks. Inexpensive is not Harbor freight anymore. Amazon is also a good alternative. They pretty much have everything you need delivered to your doorstep.
I have never had any problem with their tools… Y’all just don’t take care of your tools… Oh by the way its not for a every day mechanic their for us diy people
I bet you spent the stimulus check you received because of President Trump unless of course you are not a US citizen in which case you need to go home.
Bought a HF rotary hammer in 2008, I still use it today, theshot but the drill is still working fine, paid $69.00 for it new. Love Harbor freight
The panel pliers are a godsend! Work far better that any other tool I have used in 50 years as a mechanic. I bought them on a whim as they were on sale at the time. I said to myself what the heck. Been using them daily for two years now. Sometimes you get surprised in life when a friend i loaned money to paid me back.
I work a the head
Hmmmm. Thanks!
I’m guessing no one on this site actually moderates comments. If I’m wrong, please remove all the political crap. It has nothing to do with the content in this article.
The average people have been paying for years no matter who the potus is. So try again.
Do not forget to mention the 4.5 inches angle grinder that I have bought for $ 9.99 with discounts. It is forever.
Apache Hard cases. As good as Pelican, at half or less the price. Just excellent cases for cameras, electronics, firearms, etc.
HELLLL NO!! I went through heat guns!!! The last one caused a fire and burned down my building!! Save your money for power tools that are not made from some cheap factory in China.
Dumb ass. You don’t leave ANY tool unattended.
There tool are good. Buying cordless drill they don’t come with battery or charger. In long run cheaper go to Walmart and buy there’s.
The Winches are great!!!
First off a little about myself I’ve been in the maintenance field since 1972 I have had all top line equipment and I had harbor freight equipment I have run the maintenance department in multiple hotel properties and residential as a business owner in the past and for everyday use I find harbor freight tools to be more than adequate in some cases the casing any other tools maybe tougher but I have had no problem with harbor freight tools in return policy is anything is wrong replacement if anything is wrong and they carry a lifetime warranty on subtle other products I am proud to have a lot of harbor freight tools or have their sewer snake on the house a uger I have a 2-in pump and many others and have not had any problem with them and/or their generators so I cannot say the harbor freight only has five good tools I think that is a single opinion of the person writing the article.
Im a single father and a journeyman carpenter by trade. Before these past 8yrs in residential and commercial construction I logged in the Pacific Northwest for 12 years. From the time I was 18 and started supporting myself life has been a struggle until Trump became president. These last 4 years have been the best I have had because wages have gone up and theres more work than I can handle. People were spending and investing in their homes and properties and I havent had to compete as much with the illegal mexicans who most often do sloppy work and send their money back to mexico anyways. Trump has been the best damn president I have seen and he does what he says. I am not prejudice by no means and believe we are all equal but I cant deny the fact that things started looking up for me thanks to the Trump administration. All you socialists are fools because its the working man that pays for everything our government has to distribute. And the homeowners and every other tax paying american citizen. I would be proud if my Son grew up to be like Trump. We are all human and he doesn’t have to fake it to make it because he’s got everything anyone could ever want. I cant help but think something is terribly wrong with our election system because I know that Americans want Trump and are tired of slaving for those corrupt bastards. When you have to lie and cheat then clearly you are in the wrong. It just goes to show how corrupt our country really is and why those 110 concentration camps were built in the U.S. I’d say prepare for the worst. If you think Hitler was bad. You aint seen nothing yet.
Yea, hows the economy now bozo? Your President sure did a bang up with controlling the Covid, hasn’t he?
What kinda tool you uee?
*use? Carol?
350,000 Americans dead from covid-19 and 425,00o projected by January.. Absolutely no leadership. And pardoning his criminal cronnies. No decency, dignity nor morality.
Man! I thought we were talking about tools here not politics! Anyways Harbor Freight has more than five good tools I’ve had a bunch for years no complaints here!
I bought both the Pittsburgh. Metric & standard 5pc ratcheting flex- head combo wrench set. So far so good and the one thing that i like is the lifetime warrenty, and i payed no extra for this and about a 1/2 yr later my #10 froze up. So i went to harbor freight and show the broke wrench and she asked for my phone number and within 4 min she came out with a new #10 and gave it to me…
Well I’ll let everybody know that I give harbor freight two thumbs up because I had bought a dremel and the only place out of Home Depot ( where I bought the dremel), Lowe’s and Harbor Fraight that had diamond dremel bits was Harbor Freight. Hmmm go figure.
The stud nailer is pure garbage but I got their pin nailer, finish nailer and Brad nailer and I’ve never had a single misfire in almost 7 years of constant use and COMBINED they’re the same price as a Porter Cable stud nailer. Plus their nails are dirt cheap.
I have had a Chicago electric 7″ circular sander/buffer for 12 years now (knock on wood) and it still works great. My 12″ compound miter saw is good but getting true square cuts takes adjusting.
Eye enjoy having my torso slammed by horse carcasses slung by a catapult in a dark cave
I have a few battery powered tools by Chicago Electric. Finally after a couple of years I need new batteries..but guess what? HF doesn’t carry that style battery any longer..and was very short with me on the phone when I talked to them at the top offices. They didn’t really care…just, ‘too bad for you!’. So…no more battery powered tools from HF for me. It makes me wonder about their welders. I need a new one but am hesitant. I don’t want tools that I can’t get parts for.
I’m a steel fabricator. I love the fact that I can heat and bend a tool, cut, weld to, and then cut off and discard that cheap tool into my scrap box and then go buy another of the same tool and put it in my tool box. Been a customer since they opened in Ewing NJ.
Has anyone tried the woodburning tool, “knock-off Dremel” rotary tool, or airbrushing kit? I have been pondering trying these out and wonder how these have performed. Any feedback other than a critique of my grammar, punctuation, and spelling is appreciated.
You are all fools,
Talking about tools.
Fucking grammar nazis.
Tried that Heat Gun. The heat gun started on fire in less than 2 minutes and they refused to return it the next day saying I didn’t buy a warranty.
Harbor freight has discontinued the 20% coupon!!!! That was one big motive for going into the store!!!!
The axe made of wood sucks,!!!! Good thing is that you can get a new one every time, no questions asked!!!!
I feel I got really lucky a few weeks ago. I’ve wanted that Predator 3500 generator for my camper. My Yellow Champion makes it a bit hard to go to sleep or even having it run all day just so loud.
I was in Harbor freight and they had 2 predators under a closeout table for 599.00, they said that they were brought back within the 5 day period. I jumped all over it. Got it home only 1..5 hours on it. It dawned on me that a snow storm the week earlier knocked the power out. So I guess they bought it then power came back on so they returned them… That’s just ok with me I finally bought the predator I wanted.
Ok wtf did pie r squrareded say? And who else cares what he spelt. My IQ higher than gramrerror police. Its 79. Not bad. So shove that in a bench vice n grind it.
In 1972 HF was HF tool & salvage. They called me from L.A. and told what they had. I would order sight unseen. I was a professional ASE & Cadillac Craftsman for over 15 years. I’m still using every tool I bought to this day. Most broken tools have been abused or misused. Don’t hammer on a screw driver when you need a chisel. Don’t use a screw driver for a pry bar. Only use a floor jack on level surfaces. Thats why it’s called a floor jack. By the way, use jack stands. I’ve been other professions for years and I still use HF, too. If you force your wood on a table saw you burn out the motor. If you force the cut with a circular saw you burn it out. Tools are designed for a purpose and using & abusing them outside of that purpose or correct method ruins them. Know what you’re going to be using a tool for before you buy it. If you’re going to need a chisel then buy it, not a screw driver. I’ve used their drills over 20 years. I bought a craftsman drill once & once only, never again, & it broke a gear drilling mild steel. My Chicago Electric drill has worked over 20 years. My CE impact driver has worked over 15 years, except I’ve had to replace batteries. I wouldn’t buy anything but HF unless they don’t carry what I need.
Too bad Harbor freight sucks now.
I have been a rabid harbor freight fan since they were one tiny store in camarillo ca.
I can accept that they have done away with most coupons and I’m okay not getting a free flashlight.
What has upset me is how they are gouging customers with the triple cost of their rubber gloves.
I pretty much avoid buying anything there. Not because of the cost increase. Because the manager explained it like this:
“We had to raise the price because we could get in major trouble if we didn’t”
Please don’t stupid talk me, it’s insulting.