I posted about Harbor Freight’s Icon tool boxes the other day, and how Harbor Freight has significantly slashed their prices. I haven’t asked for an official comment yet, and still don’t know whether this move was planned or in response to low sales of their new premium-featured (and high-priced) tool storage line.
According to a January 2020 investor fact sheet, Lowe’s has 1728 store locations in the USA, and 249 in Canada.
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Home Depot, according to their corporate website, has more than 2200 stores in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
At this time, Harbor Freight has “1000+” stores in the USA.
There are two Harbor Freight stores closer to me than the nearest Lowe’s store, and a third just beyond that. All this is to say that there are a lot of Harbor Freight stores, and they’re within reach.
Have you been to a Harbor Freight store recently? They’re big, and they’re mostly filled with tools, plus related equipment, accessories, and supplies.
From a numbers standpoint, would it be fair to say that Harbor Freight is more than half the size of Lowe’s, and closing in on half the size of Home Depot? This seems possible, from a number of store locations standpoint.
Since Harbor Freight is a private company, there’s no sales data, information about growth, or details regarding in-store vs. online sales.
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Still, we can conclude that 1) Harbor Freight is a large company, and 2) Harbor Freight is a successful company. Companies don’t grow and add retail locations without making money.
Sears used to have the largest tool departments, with huge amounts of floor space committed to Craftsman tools and other brands. That is no longer the case.
Yes, home improvement stores also have a lot of floor space dedicated to tools and related products. But Harbor Freight is all-tools.
To me, this gives Harbor Freight great potential to be a fiercer competitor.
Right now, there’s a lot of chatter about Lowe’s “closing the gap” and catching up to Home Depot. But when it comes to tools, everyone seems to forget that Harbor Freight is an increasingly big player.
While a lot of people scoff about Harbor Freight tool quality – and I can say I used to be in that group – Harbor Freight sells a lot of tools to a lot more people.
I bought a whole lot of Harbor Freight hand and cordless power tools a couple of months ago. Some of them are abysmal, others are quite usable and in fact I might even consider them competitive.
Personally, I think Harbor Freight’s marketing could stand to be shifted a little, but it seems to be working for them. Harbor Freight compares many of their tool offerings against higher priced alternatives, but in a lot of those cases they’re not quite apples to apples comparisons.
It can be said that you don’t go to Harbor Freight for quality, and that you go their for cheap and even disposable tools, but that seems to be truer for critics and not loyal return customers.
Harbor Freight’s Icon hand tools appear to be quite popular. When I asked about Hercules cordless power tools, and when they’d get more in stock, I was told many customers were asking the same questions.
A lot of people are happy with Harbor Freight tools, and continue to buy more.
Harbor Freight has been striving to innovate and not just compete against higher priced tools but build up brands of high quality and strong features.
When a big box home improvement store wants to bring new tools to their stores, they have to make space for them, and there might be other parties involved in the discussion. Harbor Freight doesn’t need to tip-toe around corporate agreements, they can shift things around as they please. I’d think this gives them greater power to deploy new tools and product offerings.
Let’s sum it up:
Harbor Freight has 1000+ stores.
Harbor Freight presumable doesn’t have to make decisions based on corporate agreements with other brands.
Harbor Freight has a huge customer base.
I would presume that many Harbor Freight customers are loyal or at least returning customers.
We need to take them more seriously. I realized this in recent years, but I don’t think a lot of people realize how large and capable Harbor Freight has become as a company.
I would agree that Harbor Freight has been too complacent with their public opinion, but they are trying to change that and push forward with new higher quality and more featured tools and brands.
There’s more that they could do. If a brand like Tekton can refresh their public image and steadily introduce value-priced USA-made hand tools, why can’t Harbor Freight?
Harbor Freight isn’t flexing their power as well as they can, but that doesn’t mean they should be underestimated.
Harbor Freight is only going to get bigger, and with that potentially more influential.
Right now, a lot of Harbor Freight’s flagship products seem to be copies, inspired by other brands’ leading products. How long before Harbor Freight starts pushing boundaries?
They have acquired new talent in recent years, engineers and product designers who are honing their skills developing products inspired by the best other brands have to offer. That’s okay, it’s what a lot of tool brands do.
How long before Harbor Freight runs with some ideas and focuses not on lowering prices, but on making something better?
The big focus on most of their tools, even the new higher-quality ones, is on “hey look, ours is just as good, but lower priced.”
Will this change? Perhaps, but possibly not. Why break a business model that has been working just fine?
But if, and that’s a really big “if,” Harbor Freight flips the switch on a small sub-section of their offerings – just one brand even – that’ll be a big and disruptive shift to the industry.
Sears and Craftsman used to dominate the consumer steel tool storage industry, and I doubt that’s still true. I bet Harbor Freight has scooped up a lot of that market share. What other tool-related segments will they take appreciable bites out of?
All I’m saying is this – don’t underestimate Harbor Freight Tools. They are a goliath with many stores and a huge customer base.
They’re not making as many waves in the industry as they could right now, and the ones they are making are largely going unnoticed.
Harbor Freight is growing and strengthening, and their potential to influence the tool industry is gaining steam.
Do you think Harbor Freight is content with the way things are now, or are they working towards building something different?
Harry
Yes, Harbor Freight continues to improve and offer perhaps better product. Their main advantage to me at least, is that they’re an actual store where you can touch. feel, hold, and determine if a tool is right for you. However, the lack of offering open stock in mechanic’s hand tools prevents them in my opinion, from being a tool marketing leader.
The Icon roll out seems to be hit and miss. Anyone remember the still unresolved 3/8 drive flex head ratchet recall?
Dan Gutia
I have bought a lot of harbor freight tools and I am very satisfied with everything I have bought
Jason
Not all of it is good i bought an anvil and the thing dents when you hit it with a hammer. I dont think thats a common practice with anvils
Wayne
Does it work?
Johnathan Adams
Most of the tools are decent .I usually buy the cheaper tools but with that being said , they replace them all or most of their hand tools are lifetime warranty
Darrin
Anything will dent if you hit it.
I have 100 year old anvil that dents when I hit it hard enough
Mike
Both my tool boxes are filled with harbor freight tools and never had any issues with them.Stay away from their battery chargers though,went through 4 before i gave up and got a name brand one.money well spent as far as im concerned.
Ed Piacenti
That little trickle charger/maintainer I have really works. From November to April it keeps the car battery up until I drive it again. Same with the lawn tractor which sits all winter. Never had a problem with them.
Tyler
It’s a matter of finding the right balance for hardness. Too soft and it dents, too hard and you risk cracking. The more expensive options have found that balance and likely cost more because the process of heat treating and annealing takes time.
Mike Reed
An anvil that dents is what anvil users call an ASO (Anvil Shaped Object)
Jim Nic
I was a professional remodeling contractor for over 20 years, we bought the best tools our money could buy (we all know the brands); at that time, I would only buy an HF tool for one-time use and either give it or throw it away.
When I retired (2018), some of my tools needed to be replaced. Since I was now a DIY guy only, I thought, let’s see how (or if) HF has changed. Well I was pleasantly surprised, the quality of their higher-end tools has improved a lot (and I’ve bought several)… and yes, they still sell one-timers (junk). As a former professional craftsman, allow me to break it down simply, if you are a:
Professional: Buy the best (It’s not at HF, expect to pay a lot).
Serious DIYer: Buy HF’s high-end quality only or HD/Lowes.
Casual DIYer: Buy HF’s high-end quality only or HD/Lowes.
Don’t Give-a-Crapper: Buy HF’s low-end stuff & enjoy cheap.
One-Timer: Buy HF’s low-end stuff, let it rust in your garage or sell it on Craigslist.
Hope this helps a little!
P.S. – Sure do hope they start buying stuff ‘Made in USA’
Jim
They were listed as things not to buy in a poll. Guess they were right ??
Chris
How’s the Jack stands holding up?
Ken N.
After the first jackstand failed because the teeth didn’t engage, my truck fell on me and crushed me. After I was pronounced DOA, I ran over to Harbor Freight, only 10 minutes away, and they immediately exchanged it for a new jackstand, no questions asked. The second one broke in half when a weld failed, and my truck fell on me again. After I was pronounced dead for the second time HB gave me a 20% off coupon good for anything in the store AND a free flashlight! (Dear HB: this is parody and social commentary. Do not sure for libel.)
Daniel Woods
Its a cast anvil.and a forged anvil is about 10 times the price.
JOHN SCONIERS
Hahaha just mashing yer taters I knew what you ment I love harbor freight they seem to always have what I need as well and more of it then the big box stores
Elijah
This is guy is being paid to do this harbor freight is a horrible place and you can never count on there tools to work. And the worst tool you could ever buy in there is Chicago Electric. Please don’t ever buy a tool from harbor freight. My dad always told me something, he said if your going to buy something only buy it once, which means don’t go to harbor freight got to Lowe’s and buy the thing you want the first time.
Stuart
Me/ToolGuyd? No.
Just because you have a bone to pick with Harbor Freight doesn’t mean that anything remotely optimistic is paid for. Although, I did think the same a few years ago when I read a couple of “coincidentally timed” “magazine features” that had far more favorable language than I would have expected, but I have not seen anything questionable like that in the years since then.
I just bought my first Harbor Freight tool that was intended for use, as opposed to review/editorial purposes. There are things I don’t like about it, but it’ll do the job.
Chris
Elijah, what a horribly negative comment! You may be right or wrong on the first thing, I don’t know, but without evidence.. it’s just plain rude. While I generally agree with your dad’s motto, I wholeheartedly disagree with your opinion of Harbor Freight. Their hand tools are great! They’re just as good as anyone else’s and come with a lifetime warranty. I once broke a hammer by repeatedly pounding metal posts into hard ground with it, something it was NOT intended for, broke the head right off. Walked in the store and exchanged it, no questions, no receipt. Customer service beats HD and Lowes hands down, not even close. As for the bargain basement Chicago Electric tools.. I have a few. Never failed. No issues. Read the reviews on anything you’re interested in buying. They’re real. I’ve posted dozens of reviews, including a very negative one on some terrible solar lights. They don’t take any bad reviews down. FYI, I was going to buy the anvil until I read the many bad reviews mentioning denting and soft steel. Read the reviews!
JOHN SCONIERS
Should have brought acme. Seems to work for wylie coyote.hahaha
Dq
I like HF tools for my shop
Because they either get stolen
Or because they get lost all the time can’t afford good tools
Tom Dicus
I’m in touch with that emotion.
Scott
Most of my tools are snap,on but once in a while I need a tool that I don’t have and if its something that I won’t use alot I will buy it from harbor freight, and it will work fine granted you get what you pay for!
Bear
Your sooo right
Kenny Hopkins
I have been using Harbor freight tools for several years and the only reason I had to replace them is that I used them so much that I wore them out. They may not be the quality of rigid or Milwaukee but for the money they can’t be beat. I will continue to use Harbor Freight tools
.
Buzz
I was under the impression that HB tools have a lifetime warranty.
When one of my hand tools fail, I take it back for an exchange with no questions asked
SP
Yup, I work at Harbour Freight. Good company to work for. Pittsburgh, no questions asked, bring it back. We have the best extended warranty for the cost. Bring it back before the end of warranty and get a new one. Even if it still works! Our store works w a contractor and they beat up the tools. They come in, exchange and on their way!
There are some power tools I don’t recommend.
Jake
I bought a 1/2” drill on Friday at 9:30 am. I used it one time to mix up thin set for a tile job and by 9:45 it was burned up. I would have expected to at least get a days use out of it. Their hand tools may be ok but their power tools are JUNK with a capital J !!
Arthur Storey
I’m sure they do have quite a few that are junk, but don’t count them all in that mix. I bought a Bauer 20v cordless drill for 54.95 after coupon and sale price, and have definitely put some hours on this drill , as I use it on a regular basis. And although I eventually bought the larger battery for it due to the short time usage on the battery it co.es with which is the 1.5. But other than that, I would put that drill up against any dewalt, Milwaukee, craftsman, etc.. comparable drill, for a fraction of the cost of the others. Anyone that uses tools on a regular basis can usually tell on most things, if something is gonna be a pos b4 wasting they’re money but unfortunately their are a few things you have to take chances on. Hell women are no different.?
Ken N.
I measure tools by weight. Seriously. They are all made with similar alloys. Pick them up. The heavier ones are usually made with thicker metal and last longer. Not always. But often. Same with major appliances. Look at the net weight in the specs.
Jim
Did you use the correct extension cord ?
Ian Jones
That’s wild. I have the corded Chicago 1/2″ d-handle drill, and I’ve mixed hundreds of bags of grout and thinset with it. That’s it’s ONLY job, and it just gets kicked around for months at a time when I’m not tiling anything… Still works!
Zane
I’ve had HF Chicago electric 12″ sliding miter saw for between 15&17 years. Only thing that I had to change was the blade & one of the motor brushes( it came with 2 extras). Each of those took less than 5 min. It has been left out in the rain several times and has made 75-95 % of all cuts in building 2 houses, 2 remodels ( full house), the building of 1large hay barn ( 30Tx60Wx72L). The only thing wrong with it now is the shaft has just enough bend ( my father chopped a2x4 off to fast and got it hung) that I have to give a 1/16″ buffer when I make a cut. Over all I can say my power tools from HF ( 20v 1/2″ impact, and matching grinder among other stuff) are my favorite for the money. Iv had a lot of other things of similar cost but none of them have been in the same quality. I stand by them because I’m actually kinda hard on tools. They have served me well.
Kh
If you’re going to mix thinset, paint, etc.. with a drill, be sure your drill is large enough to do so. Probably a min of 10 amps, in my experience.
Barry
Oh yes the power tools are junk I bought 3 drills an 2 grinders within a month thay were shot!! YEP PURE JUNK!
Charlie
I have purchased a grinder, sawsal, high speed buffer and many other items from HF with my only issues being with cheap small items. If I have a problem with an item or it doesn’t work for me they have always refunded my purchase.
Buzz
Now HF has put in place a “Restocking fee” on some returned tools; along with discontinued 20% off coupon the prices on most tools are the same as Home Depot prices with no restocking fee
Kim Mackey
Me and my Husband both love our Harbor Freight. Everything from tools, saws, solar lights❤, yard tools of all kinds. #teamharborfreight
Ray
Hi Kim, when I ask my wife to come with me to HF, she mysteriously becomes narcoleptic.
James F Mavity
My wife and I go to HF often. She buys the tools she wants and I buy the tools I want. Her tool bags weight as much as my roll around tool box. Never had a problem with any of the tools from HF. I use them at work every day.
Ken N.
I used to scoff at Harbor Freight. I joked that their merchandise fell off the ship into the harbor, and that’s how they got their name. This was back in the day when “Made in China” was synonymous with cheap junk. Stanley was made in Massachusetts, and Craftsman had a lifetime warranty.
But now, everything is made in China, so why not buy it where it’s cheaper. And why not save a tremendous amount of time by going to a much smaller store. Sure, they don’t have lumber or refrigerators or ceramic tile. But if I need a socket wrench set, I can save serious time and money at HF. Plus, I refuse to shop where my money goes to the [NO POLITICS!!!] (Home Depot), and the employees at Lowe’s are a bunch of surly high school kids. The place has been a mess since Covid-19 started. The kids have become increasingly authoritarian, and purchase and pickup has become a nightmare.
There’s a local hardware store, but it’s only a little closer than HF, and doesn’t provide the “neighborly” friendliness or advice I would expect. So I am spending a lot more time and money at HF. The quality seems about equal to the two big competitors, the price is way lower than the locally owned hardware store and significant ly lower than the two big ones, and one of their executives was in my Sunday school class (he used to work for HD, btw).
Stuart
I had to use admin privileges to redact part of your post. Please, no politics!
Rod harris
I bout a snap on on 3/8 cordless took off 1 8 mm bolt and didn’t work anymore it’s a gamble and who’s wife was in a bad mood the night before he went to work the next day or if it was on a friday
Ron
Bingo. Harbor freight has it right. The haters love to go off on a recall, as if nobody else ever had one.
Reality is, Pittsburgh pro and several Other lines are better than most people need, for alot less money.
Saul bund
I have going to nd for years.lately I find THINGS are out of stock. When it’s on sale.exbatreries.was as .the month of Aug 2o2o
Stuart
Lots of things are out of stock everywhere due to COVID-19 buying habits, resupply shortages, and production slowdowns.
Valvestem
Harbor Freight anvils are cast iron. Without the hardened steel plate working surface found on most if not all cast steel or wrought iron anvils. HF anvils dent easily because of what they are made from. And they are cheap in price because of this. But still very usable within limitations.
Nestor
I been a customer since this store open in my town and with the past of time my opinion is that they are getting better and better.I Love when You go to a store that have everithing You need …..
Gary Hendedson
I’m a older guy that likes to tinker with projects. Most of the tools I want to buy, just need to do the job. They don’t have to be THE highest quality because I may use them a couple of times in my life. If I were a mechanic by occupation and use my tools all the time, YES, I would look towards QUALITY, but if I need a hammer twice a year to pound in a half dozen nails, a $3 dollar one will work as good as a $30 dollar one. Same with an angle grinder, a drill motor, hand saw, etc, etc, etc.
Harbor Freight meets the needs of the every day person but maybe not the PROFESSIONAL. Besides that. I usually get a FREE flashlight, tarp, cleaning cloths, batteries, etc just for buying “any item” and that’s a nice extra .
One Happy customer
Joyce Snay
I like the tools just not the one use face mask. They gave me a severe allergic reaction and I had to go to the hospital for it.
Rudy
My company runs on harbor freight ( I work for a large natural gas contractor in the midwest) we put these tools to the test and they might not be exactly the same quality but they are impressive considering the cost comparison. I could buy two for the price of one sometimes so it’s actually a better deal.
If HF can find a way to market the Ikea way (cheap priced product that works well) they would be a huge competitor
Jeremy Sundin
I have always been a Snap-on guy but in the last few years I am hard pressed to find a dealer that lasts and for all that money I have spent with them there is basically no warranty if no one shows up as is my case. Harbor freight on the other hand is 2 blocks away from my work and a 10th of the cost if not more with lifetime warranty as well and will replace a whole set rather than just one piece of a tool. you cant buy all of your tools from Harbor freight but they are better in my opinion than Snap-on these days because they are there for you when you need them and always friendly as a mechanic I need my tools and Snap-on is failing
Ron
A good number of the snap on tools are made in china. I think the only hand tool still made in the U S is Craftsman. I have a good number of Harbor Freight tools that are as good as, if not better than many higher prices brands.
DRT42
Craftsman hand tools are made in China. Their website still shows the Texas plant as “coming soon”. https://www.craftsman.com/support/where-its-made
SteveBausch
Yep, if you are only switching out the broken stuff, Snap-On will not return your calls.
Buddy has a grudge regarding the Snap-On cordless drill that needs a new $100 battery. He will never buy it.
Ray
A lot of their Pittsburgh products have been reasonably good. Otoh, recently (last week) I bought the S shaped wrenches for a job, and they made me nervous from the start. The teeth grip for the nut was too rounded and not deep enough to hold the nut. With a prayer in hand, I tried to get a decent grip, but my fears came through, tool slipped and rounded the nut. Yup, these will be going back.
I do have to say, some other items that I thought for sure wouldn’t last a week, have been absulute champs!
Over all, HF has been better than expected. If their wrenches and ratchets get better design, then Snap On will have a huge problem. Not even close yet, but some stuff will compare favorably, like the Daytona Jack’s and the cross bar attachment for the jack.
Cris
I just spend $1300 at this store last week
Ricardo Marquez
I’m sorry for your loss
Bill Emeott
Its all just chinese junk , but hey almost all tools are chinese made junk these days.all you folks shopping at HF probably blame someone else for jobs leaving America, buy American made..Buy Union
KG
Nope, the “buy American” argument is moot. Consumers want the most for their dollar, and American companies have to compete just like everyone else. And besides, when I buy from HF, it’s Americans running the floor, stocking the shelves, and working the cash registers, all employed on American soil in American buildings, paying American rent and payroll taxes and sales taxes. Your buy American and especially Union argument holds no weight
Jh
HF sells junk, you can often find much better tool with a warranty for the same price or just a little more. I will no longer purchase anything from them
Randy
I am proud to say that I am a Harbor Freight customer I have purchased Harbor Freight items such as Predator brand or other Harbor Freight items and have never once had an issue with anything I have fault from their stores. In my personal opinion they offer quality tools at quality prices unlike other hardware stores. I will continue to buy other items from Harbor Freight in the future with no question.
Darrell Gerlach
Predator generators are awesome. I’ve got two. The 3500 invertor generator is terrific and virtually noiseless. I use it in my fith wheel and can’t hear it running.
Derek
I think Harbor Freight is going to have a hard time overcoming the “cheap” quality mentality with their stores typically in the “rougher” areas. Also having higher priced/quality tools right next to lower ones is either going to make the lower tiered ones look cheap or the higher tiered ones looking like there’s not a big enough advantage over the cheap ones.
It certainly can be done, look at Toyota and Lexus. But Lexus customers expect better service and facilities then the Toyota dealerships.
Eric
Well I don’t actually think it’ll be as hard as you think for them to loose the ‘cheap’ reputation in day in age where 95% of tools are made overseas that the old school guys are saying if it over seas it’s all the same so if there looking at say kobalt why spend more at Lowe’s if you can get the “same” tool at harbor freight for less I mean I’ve seen a lot of that with the craftsman name alone then one the other hand you have the younger generation that I don’t believe are brand loyal and look at nothing more than the price (whether can’t afford to spend more or simply don’t care) so all that doesn’t imply to is the tool truck guys which if your shopping on tool trucks your in a whole different playing field
Jam Adadson
I think there is a space for people who understand that a bullet-proof tool comes at a premium price, and if a tool sees only occasional use it need not be as rugged as a tool that sees daily use.
Harold Bugbee
I think by buying from China,we are Financing our own demise, maybe we already have,just saying
Andrew
Yes.
Look how everyone (that didn’t have a home gym during B.C.) is scrambling for weight plates & other equipment that is manufactured in China, and none of it is available.
David A. VandeBerg
Harbor Freight and Tractor Supply both in the same boat. We are supporting their economy, not ours.
Stuart
Harbor Freight is a privately owned American-based company. Yes, a majority of their suppliers are based overseas, but that is true for so many other companies. What does Apple make here? Dell? Hasbro?
Money leaves the country with most retailers and brands these days. But a lot of money does stay here, in the form of local, regional, and federal taxes, and supporting 1000+ stores worth of workers, plus corporate managers and tool designers, warehouse and distribution workers, and so forth.
You are of course entitled to your opinion – I’m just trying to ensure it’s an informed one.
Buzz
Harold, if you refuse to purchase anything made in China, you will not have very many buying choices, even American made car companies are installing components made in China
Fred Connolly
THIS.
IamTek7
This X2. Well said!
Ron
Exactly
China doesn’t get every penny. Thinking they do is what feeds the harbor freight haters.
Travis
I have many hand tools from Harbor Freight. Between their lifetime warranty and initial cost savings, they are a value to me. I have broken a ratchet and a couple ratcheting wrenches that were replaced upon return to the store.
With tools growing legs in the oilfield a loss is easier to handle.
Derek
I think to go into a dedicated tool store takes a certain level of being into fixing things. You ask the average person where to buy tools and they’ll probably say, Lowes, Home Depot, Menards, etc.
I own some Harbor Freight tools and will continue to get some as needs arise but I’ll also buy other brands.
Mj
HD and Lowes seem like their products keep getting cheaper and lower Quality while Harbor Freight is getting higher quality…..
Charles F
this is exactly correct.
Joe Jacovino
plus their prices go up as quality goes down, greed sucks …
Ricardo Marquez
Have you looked at the prices of the Icon geared wrenches? I’ll buy gearwrench, kobalt or husky before those or the cheap harbor freight version. It’s like Hyundai building a luxury car…high priced with only a perception of quality that will never be what they are trying to build. Fortunately I have old craftsman,sk,snapon tools that are 20+ years old. HF serves a purpose like a 7/11 easy access and item in stock. The low prices enables you to test a tool to see if you need something better and if the cheap HF tool fails there is no chance I’m paying for any high end HF tool to replace it.
SteveP
Gee – not to argue with the quality of some older tools being far better, but the Hyundai analogy? Compared to what? Mercedes? BMW? Genesis has already surpassed both in many ways (customer service being a major factor). And I am not a Hyundai owner (but I did make the BMW mistake). If you are talking current Rolls or Bentley… well, that’s a different BMW and a VW but still paying for the badge – not really relevant to HF, which is what it is (cheap and cheerful and a good option for amateurs like me who don’t use tools professionally). But Hyundai is certainly one of the best “ordinary” cars, bang for buck, you can buy today
blocky
They might not want to raise much attention to their position at this time.
I have gotten excellent use out of the Pittsburgh brand pull saws and o-ring picks, though I’ve never set foot in one of their stores.
Will
Your in for a treat then stop in one of their stores. The quality has improved over time, the return policy is second only to none. My only complaint is and has been the number of things made in China I have the same issue with Wal-Mart. My reason has nothing to do with quality, it’s communism today we see just how a governmental system like China can be devastating to the world.
We are dependent things being made in developing economies. We don’t need them to be made in closed and semi closed societies.
Harbor Freight has several things going for them. Hopefully they will find a way to break with China and maybe add a USA made section in their stores. I won’t buy any pliers other then good old Channelocks made in Meadville Pennsylvania.
Tom S.
Amen on that. Was looking at a few of the new lines of tools at HF last week and ALMOST bought a couple pairs of pliers. But good ol made in the USA ones are still getting the nod here. I have zero problem with paying the extra $, I have a lot of problems funding anything in China however. Craftsman is now owned by Stanley and now made in China. HF is big enough to get this stuff made here. Sorry for the flag waiving rant but a lot more of us should be doing that too.
Matt
Take a look at the Bremen vice grips. Made in Taiwan not China. Far better than the Chinese Irwin line. Not made in the USA but made by an ally not an enemy.
William V.
American or Chinese? Price vs quality? Hf is doing what retail have always done, buy cheap, sell high. Everything traditionally American has parts from around the world. Everybody wants something for nothing. HF is very good at giving what you want at the price you can afford.
James C
There’s always going to be a market for cheap tools (not that HF is all cheap tools anymore). Related, what’s up with the Pulsar and Einhell cordless tool brands on HD’s website? I haven’t been to a HD store lately so I don’t know if this is online only. I was searching by recently added the other night and a bunch of these brands’ tools popped up.
Here’s Pulsar:
https://www.homedepot.com/b/Tools/N-5yc1vZc1xy/Ntk-RelaxedMatch/Ntt-pulsar%2B20v?NCNI-5&catStyle=ShowProducts&show=2
fred
I got an email saying that Home Depot is now carrying Wiha tools online – (but maybe not in-store?)
Lowes used to carry Knipex in-store to compete with Ideal and other pliers that they sold in the electrical aisle.
I cite these examples because there is a difference in having lots of items in-store (where rack/shelf space is costly) versus online – particularly if an on-line item is not sitting in your warehouse but comes direct from the manufacturer. So HD can offer Wiha – without it competing with other in-store brands for shelf space. Then if Wiha stuff sells well online – maybe some of it may be introduced in-store.
With HD or HF – I don’t know what % of their sales is online versus in-store – but I expect that COVID has skewed those numbers toward online. The fact that HF was continuing to open new stores – probably means that stores continue to generate sales for them. In the post-COVID (God Willing) era – we’ll see if that continues.
There might be one advantage that HF has in its in-store presence of the cheap next to the expensive – or even doing what Sears used to do with some items (lining up Good, Better, Best). That strategy may encourage some buyers who come looking for good-enough (aka cheap) to try out some of the stuff labeled “best” (aka higher profit margin items).
Stoney
Due to covid actually more people are coming in to the stores due to a month backlog or so on receiving online orders, as an employee the customers coming into the store has only increased since the pandemic, the tools are like anything some perfect some have a defect but the hassle free return and ease of availability for Extended service plans make sure everyone’s products are protected it’s up to the consumer to decided if the esp is worth it and honestly it always is just because of the hassle less returns etc
Katie
I an am employee of Harbor Freight and also a loyal customer even prior to when I was hired. I always say “They hired me because I was always here anyway” lol. Our In Store Sales definitely increased during “SaferAtHome” and yes we certainly do have our “regulars” just like a restaurant has. I know some of them by name just from the store and greet them using their first name. I stand behind Harbor Freight and our customers.
Stuart
Several people emailed in that Home Depot announced Wiha on their website too.
Honestly, it’s that big of a deal. Home Depot also sells mattresses and reclining chairs on their website.
If Home Depot wants to be an online marketplace for any and every brand, that’s simply a “me too” strategy with unclear benefits to consumers.
fred
That part of my comment was directed at James C’s note that HD is selling Pulsar and Einhell (2 brands I never heard of) online. Maybe I wasn’t clear – but it seems that lots of retailers list items on there web site – possibly to compete with Amazon – but also because they invest relatively little in doing so. It sort of akin to “throw it on the wall and see what sticks.” If you Google search on “Wiha Screwdriver” – Home Depot may want you to come look at their webpage and buy one and/or something else from them.
With mattresses, I’ve heard that they are a highly profitable item to sell – so that why a lot of appliance stores have added them in with refrigerators and stoves etc. The last time I visited a mattress store – they were recommending replacement every 7 years. If (a big if IMO) you believe in that rate of replacement – a retailer will sell many more mattresses than stoves.
James C
That’s what I was thinking as well, Fred – that HD can list all sorts of things on their website without putting them in stores, and at very little investment. However, one possible downside with this strategy is HD has a huge brick and mortar store presence. What happens when someone buys a pulsar drill online at HD and later walks into a store looking for a battery for it? Unhappy customer, I would imagine.
Rami
Einhell is a huge cheapo brand here in Europe. They have a certain kind of reputation. You never know what you get when you buy an Einhell tool as you might get a paperweight or a gem. Personally I think they are a bit better than what their reputation is, I think their quality is pretty much on the same level as Ryobi, yet they are a lot cheaper.
Greg
I find my self wandering harbor freight a lot now there are quite a few more stores in my area. I know their tools are not top notch but…. as a contractor i rely on Milwaukee for power tools.
That being said when I’m doing brakes or an alternator on the weekend i shop for hand tools at HF. I have also recently purchased 2 of the 26 inch rolling tools chests for my basement to store said tools. They are wonderful so far and the wife loves that all my crap is in a nice chest.
Barry
I have a bunch I mean a BUNCH of hand tool I used for years but cant anymore dont want to sell or loan or give them away so I retired all of them in 5 gallon buckets in the basement . Lol
Gordon
You can data mine a little by reading older articles, specifically about the CEO Eric Smidt.
In 2010 a San Diego Tribune article said they employed 7400 people nationwide. Today they report employing over 20,000. The same article said they had 600 new jobs in the prior year.
In 2017 his Smidt’s net worth was about $2.3 billion. Today it is between $4.3-4.8 billion.
Also in 2017 There were roughly 500 stores in 46 states. Now they have over 1000 stores and are expanding faster than ever.
Supposedly the net revenue in 2017 was just over $2 billion. That’s hard to confirm though.
On top of all of that, Smidt is a pretty huge philanthropist. He has donated money and tools to vo-tech schools, fire, police, ems, ect. The also recently donated their entire n95 mask, face shield and nitrile glove stock to hospitals with 24h emergency rooms.
Given how long it can take a company, like Lowe’s, to change course, it might be too late. Coincidentally, HF seems to employ the opposite tactic of Tesla; start small and cheap and build a loyal customer base. Both companies were underestimated, and it was almost too late for competitors once they were respected.
Corey Moore
Just to be clear, you’re comparing harbor freight to Tesla?
Gordon
I’m saying there are similarities. Both have continued to grow their market share despite much of the conversation being about how nobody wants their products.
Corey Moore
Successful, I can give you. But in practice and reputation, they’re on complete opposite ends of the spectrum. Having profitability via an extreme prioritization on quantities and margins over quality in no way earns them a likeness to a company prioritizing quality of life improvements, and bleeding edge innovation, just because they both make money. Nobody was denying that HF makes money or has their place in the market, and I doubt anyone is thinking they’ll be leaving the market any time soon.
James Madara
That’s like comparing an iPad to those $50 tablets you see at Menards.
Cee Bee Cee
As a retired heavy industrial contractor I think HF is comparable to the dollar store in terms of mining for value and finding items equal to more costly name brand tools. The warranty and ease of finding the right tool for an one off occasional job is a tremendous time saver.
Charles
The tablet at menards is much better
Gwelo62
HF does not depend on government subsidies and regulation the way Tesla does
Corey Moore
That’s because knockoff tools that occasionally kill people aren’t really deserving of encouragement to better things like the world, or being alive.
Charles
there not knock off tools they are built in the exact same building as the big name tools 9 out of 10. Unless your buying mac, snap on, Cresent, or greatneck wich are all made hear in the USA wich is why i purchase for my primary tools they are exactly the same as craftsman, kobalt, Stanley, work pro, exct you just get cheaper. And hf power tools are starting to become every bit as good as ryobi hell i bought a Hercules impact wrench and paid third price as the Dewalt i have the herc is more powerful as well as out lasted it only thing Dewalt gas is its way lighter
Corey Moore
Knock-off in that they expend next to zero effort to create anything in the market. They’re undercutters and coat-tails riders. They cheaply immitate and deceptively market comparability to 99% existing products. They’re interest lies solely in making as much money off of things other folks make, and not in the benefit or innovation of any of the industries those products serve. I’m not criticizing those that patronize harbor freight, though I find the default defensiveness indicative of the validity in the usual claims of the companies issues. Their comparison or defense of comparison to a company that actually produces and provides new products will always remain a nonstarter so long as their pitch is “pretty much this thing, but cheaper.”
Darren Cate
It’s hard to compare Tesla with a high caliber company like Harbor Freight. Harbor Freight has a strong balance sheet, longevity and makes lots $$$ selling cheap tools.
Tesla has a weak balance sheet company that is a light switch away from being out of business and loses lots $$$ selling expensive tools.
John S
100% agree- HF is a real company, Tesla is a ponzi.
Lou
Is there anything valuable in this article. Or is this guy paid by the word?
Stuart
I wish!!!
MisterFixIt1952
I really don’t know why you hate Tesla so much but the fact is, they single-handedly started the electric car revolution, not just in the US but in the entire world. Also, you might have missed the fact that a tesla is engineered to last 1 million miles or more. I don’t know of any other car company that can say that.
As to the weak balance sheet, I don’t know where you get your information but you might want to recheck that. In the past three years, they have built mega plants in Nevada, China, Germany, and Texas. I don’t know what world you live in but in my world, four new, state-of-the-art plants are not a sign of a company, “a light switch away from being out of business”. As the new plants come online, Tesla is finally meeting their production goals.
I think you’re just upset that you didn’t buy stock when it was affordable.
Oh, BTW, I love HF tools. I use them every day. Some are indeed crap but for the most part, they are affordable and serviceable. I bought my 9×20 metal lathe there and my milling machine also. That was 12 years ago and their still going strong. My one bitch is that it is hard if not impossible to get parts to fix broken tools. Also, I doubt very much that management listens to their customer. I have taken my time to email them several times about carrying metric fasteners in their stores and have yet to receive a reply.
I will say that their new US General 20″ deep tool cabinets are fantastic. I just wish they would quit putting 2 fixed casters on their cabinets. You just can’t easily roll them where you need them. The only reason to not put all swivel casters on a tool cabinet is if you are running in a tool cart race, or want to sell more swivel casters.
Andy
In my opinion, the market is wide open for USA made tools and there are people (like me) willing to pay some premium for those. Harbor Freight has the distribution and buying ability to make that happen and no 3rd party relationships to harm, as Stuart noted. I currently look to buy mostly Proto made in America hand tools as my needs arise, usually with Zoro coupons. I would prefer to get them at a store where I could handle first. Similarly with tool chests, the Proto pricing for made in America boxes is competitive with Icon pricing. I have 2 HFs nearby and would become a frequent customer if there were good quality, made in USA tools and storage. I wonder how many others would too?
James Madara
I go to HP for cheap inexpensive tools I don’t use very often. The price point between their higher-end tools and Milwaukee isn’t enough for me to leave Milwaukee.
I believe more, now than ever companies that support and push the MADE IN AMERICA seal would do well. I live in Rockford, IL home of Estwing and I will not buy another brand hammer. American made and lasts forever.
PDJ
I seek American made tools whenever I need something new. As for Estwing, I have hammers and axes made in the USA. Estwing also manufactures some of its products overseas (Japan and Taiwan). To my disappointment, Estwing now licenses its name for screwdrivers that the licensee makes in the Peoples Republic of China.
Charles
agree I spend few more bucks to keep my neighbor employed. But when my choices are overpriced Chinese or fair priced Chinese its a no brainer
Rich
Agree,if your not making your living with them they’re great.
Same if you’re just starting out.You can buy a complete set for a fraction of, say Snap-on, and then replace one at a time as needed.
Used to be “cheap” toolboxes did not have bearing slides on their drawers, now HF has given them a run and consumers a choice
Matt
Watch out some of those Milwaukee tools are Chinese. Many of the new higher end hf are Taiwan.
Barry
I believe probably not in my lifetime but we will be lucky to find anything that’s made in America.
Alex
I believe that HF is a pipeline to the CCP. Since this CCP Wuhan virus pandemic, I’ve either gone full USA-made, or I’ve gone without. I’ve found that TrueValue stores are heavily stocked with US manufacturers. I’ll pay more for US made, and to starve the CCP
Frank D
Which US made tools does TrueValue actually carry?
Greg
Yes they are better than they used to be but any more I would much rather support a USA tool owned company than where 99% of harbor freight tools are made in china, unlike stanley black and decker an American owned company
Gordon
You do know that being American owned has nothing to do with where tools are made. HF is American owned too. SBD makes a lot of stuff overseas too.
You’re not really saying much except that you have misinformed biases.
fred
SBD (Nasdaq stock symbol SWK) is a publicly traded corporation. HF is a privately owned corporation. So SBD may actually be less American-Owned than HF (unless Eric Smidt has some undisclosed foreign investors)
Here’s a link to what I found online about who owns SBD:
https://www.gurufocus.com/stock/SWK/ownership
Stacey Jones
Yeah I gotta echo others here. I care way more about where most of the companies employees are and where they get their parts/materials than where the owners are from.
Matt
I have not found a Stanley or black and Decker that wasn’t made in China in years.
Jen
Black and Decker is it Canadian. But almost everything is made in China. They just can’t afford to make quality stuff and pay US wages. Also, even if it were made in the US, it probably would use Chinese or Indian steel. A lot of jobs disappeared along with those steel mills.
Stuart
Black & Decker was founded in Maryland, USA. Stanley Works was founded in Connecticut, USA.
Matt
“Companies don’t grow and add retail locations without making money.”
Not true… just look at Guitar Center as case and point.
they are hemorrhaging cash and getting crushed under debt load.
Their strategy has been to keep opening stores and expanding market share to attempt to increase sales with marginal profitability.
when they get short on cash, the refinance thier debt or take on new debt.
Corporate Debt is cheap and readily available.
Remember back in the day, Amazon was never profitable but kept expanding and expanding because they could always get new funds from VC, or debt markets…
HF could be doing the same thing in an attempt to gain a dominating market hold for tools.
And I will never again buy anything from HF that requires electricity or even has moving parts (other than furniture dollies)…
They are part of the cheap disposable consumer goods realm.
They rely heavily on overseas sourced materials and government subsidized workforce.
I am by no means an isolationist or USA made only buyer. I have plenty of tools and goods from all places including China, Taiwan, and Europe.
There is always a reason their products are cheaper… its not just greed on the higher end stuff. Its either cheaper labor ( overseas ) lower quality material, or they are not spending any money on R+D and instead just reverse engineering and or copying someone else’s product.
In the case of the pliers, I really doubt that Klein / HD are making $30 in extra profit on each set of pliers….
fred
Interesting – as you say the company may be expanding based on debt financing. Because HF – Central Purchasing is not a publicly-traded company it is hard to discern. Bur the owner’s quoted substantial personal is quoted as having double in the last 3 years – so it may not all be smoke and mirrors.
Matt
staff levels and staff wages are not at all indicitive of a comapnies health or debt load.
It costs nothing to bring on board a worker that cost you at most $20-$30 / hour. And since most states are right to work states, you can fire them for any reason at any time without any issues. that is why most retail has significant holiday staff increases.
You don’t take on debt to pay wages. you take on debt for material / manufacturing costs, real estate costs and corporate overhead and other salaried employees.
Coach James
Being able to fire for any reason is a Work at Will state.
George
I use to be one of the nay sayers on harbor freight tools until I needed a reciprocal saw only needed it for one small job so I went to my local harbor freight tool store and bought a 40 dollar saw well I can tell you that one small job sold me on their tools I’ve used it a dozen times and have purchased many tools since
Carlos
Their Doyle hand tools look pretty good’ I bought the cable cutter and it performed extremely well. I would not hesitate to replace some of my hand tools with some more Doyle tools, maybe needle nose and diagonal cutters next
Hoser
Why do people associate a big company or a company with lots of stores as being good? Look at how many McDonalds there are, does that mean they are good? You’ll never catch me eating their food. Now look at the pic at the top of the post comparing the linesman’s. Sure, the one on the left will cut stuff, it probably has been hardened to a degree, and the jaws probably start out as high grip jaws, but how long will that last? How hardened is it really? Marketing hype can say anything it wants, but tool longevity is the proof in the pudding. I bought a end nipper that was made overseas once to compare to my other American made ones. The import was terrible. I hated using it, I tried modifying it to make it work better and I just couldn’t stand using it. I eventually replaced it with a 15 year old end nipper that was in my tool belt that got used every day, and that 15 year old nipper was, and still is much better and works better as well. Who cares about the lifetime warranty, I want a tool that will last a lifetime, not one that I have to regularly replace for the rest of my life, and that is HF’s mantra. I will never step foot in a Harbor Freight store.
Bob
Home Depot and Lowes online strategy is not a “me too”. With in store pick up you save substantialy with larger heavier items.
Also if it’s broken, needs repair or you don’t like it you bring it back to the store. You don’t have to ship it.
Can’t say that for Amazon, or the online tool dealers.
Does Harbor Freight do e-commerce with a free delivery to store option? I genuinely don’t know if they do. I used to buy consumables at HF like gloves, grinding disks, tarps etc. (I wised up eventualy and found better deals online) but I haven’t been to one in a while. The other problem with HF competting in the online ship to store world is there limited locations compared to HD and Lowes.
Stacey Jones
Well you can return Amazon items at Kohl’s, though I haven’t done it yet. I did call in a return once and they refunded my money and told me to just keep the item! As a consumer I love them, but not sure I’d want to work there. Even so, it is good they are driving crappy businesses out of business, it just makes the statement that you better treat your customers well or don’t bother opening a business. I’m thinking of Fry’s and Microcenter. Fry’s is pretty much dead. Microcenter has fair customer service, but didn’t make changes for Coronavirus. I tried to buy a printer over the phone and pick up just outside their door and they wouldn’t do it. Oh well, even Cheeseburger bobby’s will do that…
Andy
I’ve always felt you get what you pay for with HF. If you needed a $4 hammer, that’s what you got. Which is perfect if that’s what you need.
My biggest problem with them is I really hate doing business with private companies, and avoid it when ever I can. I feel like a much better person knowing that everybody at least has the chance to invest in a business and benefit from my purchase.
Kizzle
I don’t mind private companies. A lot of public companies will gladly sacrifice employees wages to appease shareholders. Most shareholders aren’t even regular people who have invested into a company, they’re holdings companies, investment firms, or banks.
Andy
Let’s not forget pensions as shareholders. Plus, over half the people I know generate the majority of their income investing in publicly traded companies. Sure, a lot of shareholders aren’t regular people, but a lot of them aren’t.
PDJ
Privately-held businesses can be good for the owners, the employees, and their communities. Or they can be managed solely for the benefit of the owners without thought to employees or communities. Those companies often do not last. I have seen private companies with very generous benefits and profit-sharing plans, I have seen public companies that have out-sized compensation packages for executives based not on company profitablity but on stock multiples — so what the executives are focused on not on service or product but stock price.
Stacey Jones
I love to shop at HF. Who doesn’t like free screwdrivers, multimeters, and nearly free socket sets? I’ve also found good deals on some really nice, cheap tools, especially those I rarely use. I am dumbfounded by their increasing number of high end tools though. In the rare case where I want quality, I’m not shopping at HF for a modest discount.
Eric
I’d say me when the screwdrivers and micro meter they are giving away are very low quality, I see people who every time they go there they use the coupon to get free screwdrivers and have a pile of them still in the package and as a guy who can’t stand clutter all I want is my screwdriver set that I use (that are not harbor freight screwdrivers) and that’s it not multiple sets unopened sitting in the cabinet not to get used
Angel
I am a weekend warrior so HF is a tools for me and an R& R mechanic. And if one tool didn’t satisfied me I moved up a knox.
Matt
I was shopping for quality vice grips and found Hf’s Bremen to be better than anything else I could find. Even had small innovation a square 1/4 drive hole in the screw instead of an Allen key.
No Thanks
The number of lawsuits related to Harbor Freight tools is astounding. All brands face products liability suits, but the combination of cheap tools being sold to underprivileged markets leads to catastrophic injuries – at least with respect to power tools. The quality control simply isn’t there and its really pretty gross. Look at your post for recalled car jacks this week. I am very unlikely to buy a Harbor Freight tool 1) with a moving part or 2) that holds significant weight (straps, hooks, jacks, etc.). I’m not risking someone’s life over a few bucks.
Coach James
No Thanks, where would I find these lawsuits? I looked and all I could find were 13 individual store violations from OSHA or NLRB since 2000, the floor jack lawsuit, chain saw switch lawsuit. If there are more, I’d like to see them so I know what tools might be best to avoid. Thanks
Kizzle
I don’t care that people like Harbor Freight knowing full well where the tools are made and the quality of them. What irks me is some of the tradesman I know will often disparage Chinese products, the loss of American jobs, and lecture on buying American right before they turn around and head to Harbor Freight or Walmart. Just be upfront that you like cheaply produced tools. Whatever. That’s your prerogative. I avoid Harbor Freight as much as possible, but judging by the success of Harbor Freight, I’m in the minority.
Brian M
I wish HF went to a mix between their old days and what they are now. Give us name brand and decent cheap stuff also…like Northern tool but more SKUs and less space devoted towards trailers, and farm related stuff.
Gearwrench hand tools, but also some major brands (Dewalt, Milwaukee) power tools would be great there. The problem is that those brands don’t want to be in HF because they changed their identity to be cheap, garbage tools…but maybe if they’re able to change opinions with their higher end store brands maybe that will change.
Todd N
I use to love shopping at HF. I could spend $100 and get a cart full of usable tools. I could get specialty tools that I might only need for one project at really cheap prices. I don’t buy much from them any more. When they started introducing new brands, the prices went up and on some things, the quality went down. They’re positioning themselves to compete with major brands but the cost savings and quality aren’t there. As a deal-shopper I find plenty of Dewalt, Milwaukee and other name-brand tools at or slightly above the same price for the HF version. Why would I spend $350 on their top-of-the-line Hercules miter saw when I can get the similar Dewalt 779 for the same price? And in most cases, HF’s base warranty is only 90 days. These days I buy most of my cheap speciality tools from Amazon. They sell the exact same items for less than HF.
Their toolboxes are still the best-bang-for-your-buck. I just bought the 44” cabinet and I’m mostly pleased. I did have to spend some time working on it, riveting the rear of the drawers slides, replacing some existing rivets that were loose, removing the heavy grease from the drawer slides and replacing it with dry lube. And there are quality control issues: chips, scratches, one of the drawer faces is spot-welded crooked, and one of the caster rails was welded out of position so I had to shim it so it wouldn’t rock. They need to address those things as well as the quality variations between different model numbers of what is supposed to be the same box. On some skus the drawers extend fully, on mine, the back of the drawer sits an inch from the face of the cabinet.
I still like the store and I like browsing there but they’re gonna have to start manufacturing some things in the U.S. if they want to compete on a quality level. At this point their exposure to China is too high. As this trade war escalates and tariffs increase, they’re going to have to raise prices. And there’s no way I’ll spend more on an inferior Chinese made tool than a quality U.S. tool.
Steve Mabry
Thanks for channelocks, I have a whole blue drawer in my tool box, Even craftman tools were being made in China before Sears lost it, maybe harbor freight should take lessons from them, Jeff Bezos bought harbor couple of years ago, the owner of Amazon, hopefully this helps you understand what is going on, Jeff only cares about the money, when is enough money enough, no reason for him to have that much $ God bless
Ron
Jeff bezos didn’t buy harbor freight. That was an April fools joke on garage journal. Com.
You fell for it. Maybe you should give them another look.
Then Report back.
Ken N.
HB is privately owned by a family in Los Angeles.
Albert
Of the stores that I’ve dealt with during the pandemic, I am most impressed with Harbor Freight. I like how they donated PPE, extended coupons, postponed sales, stated they would not raise prices, and provided PPE and sick time to their employees. I plan to give more of my business to Harbor Freight.
William Calabrese
hf has terrible customer service as well as deceptive advertising.
I have purchased various products and will probably purchase more in the future.But for sure it will be less.
The problem was with a manager wanted an instant promotion to King.
The advertising was absolutely misleading.
Also, I like many of you have quite a collection over broken sockets.
Chris
As an avid DIY guy I was burned big time with HF discontinuing their 18V Chicago electric lineup. I have their entire set! Circ saw, hammer drill, driver and recipe saw. All used their NiCAD batteries which were discontinued to make way for Hercules. They left a lot of people in the dust but thankfully I’m handy. I bought a bunch of drill master batteries to rebuild the Chicago electric… Sad they ditched people that invested in their 18V Chicago lineup. They are still fantastic tools for the price… Now dirt cheap on eBay!
Gordon
You would have been burned by every brand using Nicad except Dewalt. Lithium took over about 10 years ago. It’s lighter, and more powerful. My 2.4ah Nicad battery weighs more than my 5.0ah li-ion, and it has a lower discharge rate.
ktash
I still keep a few Ryobi NiCad batteries to use in cold weather. But then, Ryobi has kept the same interchangeable batteries in either NiCad or Lithium for as long as I’ve had them. (Not 100% interchangeable, but close enough).
It’s the main reason I’d never buy HF electric tools even if they were great and would only buy Ryobi when I’m looking for a lower priced-tool. The battery platform has been stable. I’ve got plenty of Ryobi batteries and a number of their power tools including some for gardening. I don’t love Ryobi drills, but they do the job when it’s cold. I do love my pin and brad nailers and a bunch of their specialty items like glue gun.
firefly
Powertool I don’t see a need to buy from HF.
Hand tool and toolbox, HF is very competitive.
Cheap stuff HF is an excellent option.
Their Icon line is about to hit a sweet price point. It’s not always easy to buy a used Snap On for cheap like some suggested. For someone who want to outfit a new shop and want to go one step up. The Icon Storage deserve a look with the new price point. Even better if they goes a little cheaper.
Marc
The 7×12 metal cutting band saw is identical, based on photos and description, and a few I have seen, to the Grizzly, Shop Fox, Jet, Enco, and others. There are a few differences: paint and switch location. HF retail $1100, no shipping cost if picked up at the store. It can be bought for $950, or less, on sale. Others range in price $1200 to 1500, plus shipping. Check the reviews, same as the competition. This is typical of many of their tools.
Frank D
It has been convenient to see a HF store pop up near where family lives, in case there is small but necessary tool or cheap consumable to get something done in a pinch. You absolutely get what you pay for though. No worries on the typical basic hammer, screw driver, chisel or drill bit. Things with motors, wires, electronics are pretty much a skip. I have bought a few powertools and they’ve been functional, but the drill sparks and grinds, … Many of the inexpensive items are basically disposable quality. May be defective out of the box, or fail within 2-12 uses. So a lot of what they have is overpriced based on quality and durability … and thus shop smart. Comparison shop. If it needs to hold weight or is a safety item, go elsewhere. Buy powertools elsewhere on sale from mainstream brands with a standard 1-2-3 year warranty. At HF … buy simple things without moving parts. Kind of a thing.
Kentucky fan
I’ve said before on here that I’m a welder by trade. My cohorts and I use alot of harbor freight hand tools because quite frankly stuff gets destroyed. I keep my usa made Williams and proto at home because if a harbor freight tool gets cut in half on accident I’m not heart broken.
Rafe
15 years ago I bought a Capspray CS9100 HVLP spray rig. Guy at work asked me how much it cost, told him $1200. He laughed and said HF has one for $100 and that I was foolish. Still have the CS9100 to this day, shooting beautiful lacquer and automotive coats the whole time. You get what you pay for.
Wayne R.
Here’s something increasingly bubbling in my head: USA and other countries will likely start making more “mission critical” stuff within our own borders as a result of this whole COVID-19 disaster. Overseas production/transport fails too easily. Quality & quantity (the whole N95 mask debacle as example) for critical things (and the workforce involvement) might start to come back, bigger & better than before. I hope.
I agree that HF is improving, but for career-critical tools I don’t go there. For those occasional-use tools for home, HF is increasingly interesting.
Their materials, though, I stay away from – like a buffer motor from HF is okay, but the wheels come from McMaster. HF wire wheels, as another example, just throw wire everywhere. Yuk. Abrasive disks? No thanks.
ktash
I hope we start to make those critical things in the U.S. now. It would be a mistake not to do so. Penny wise and pound foolish has been the name of the game for too long. Even hospitals doing just-in-time supply. Insane.
SteveP
Remember – in the USA – unlike every other western country – a hospital is a business. So buying in China and putting Americans out of work and at risk is just Maximizing Shareholder Value. (And yes, I know some are non-profit but dig a bit into the salaries and beneficiaries).
I also applaud HF’s PPE donations.
Oles
All I have to say about Harbor Freight is “I’m Done” I am done buying your crap…and yes it is crap….If I have to return everything that breaks,then what’s the point? I can for surely tell you that all there tools are not hardened steel, and it will break.. that’s a fact…I used a 3/8 impact socket extension,and it broke taking off a lug nut.,and dam near lost a finger. If anybody in there right mind thinks there tools and power tools are good, your kidding yourself. This store should be band from selling anything, it’s all unsafe to use. Why do I say this? because I have been using there stuff for years, and it’s all very low quality, I’m not sure how they can compare there stuff to other name brand stuff,seriously!!(except latex gloves , )which is about all I purchase there now, small engines are not bad either, but power tools and tools alone, forget it.Spend the money and go buy something of quality, at least it will be hardened steel,and you will not get injured.Sorry harbor freight, but everytime I need something, I tell myself, I’m not going there, don’t do it…..and now look….I was under my camaro using your jack stands,,,,and now look they are recalled…..millions of them, I could of been crushed,…thanks… they will being coming back to your store. Wake up people…..just stop letting them take your money for low quality china junk. If you wanna use it one time,,,,then go get it…But, “I’m Done”. Of course….this is just my opinion!!!
Coach James
If their stuff is so bad, why have you been using it for years? I would have quit using it after the first 2 or 3 failures.
Max Musial
Sadly I don’t think I will ever see a Harbor Freight near me. Freight to Alaska would probably eat to much profit margin.
James
We have a Menards in our area. They are in an area I go to often and typically their in house brands are the same as HF. I have yet to run into a HF that’s not in a bad part of town. Since I never go to a bad part of town it’s way out of my way. Have had a Menards going on 6 years and I have been to HF once in that time. It’s just not worth the hassle to drive to it.
RCWARD
HF is and has been moving in the direction of becoming a decent quality tool store . Ten years from now they will be a quality store with no stigma of cheapness they have now. But with that comes higher prices that you are seeing even now. Don’t overlook them is a legit statement , they will be a force in the near future.
Ray CR
Harbor Freight needs to move
it’s handtool production to Taiwan.like the Doyle line. Many people I know are actively trying to avoid mainland Chinese prpducts.
Series 2 cabinets are the best for the money.
I will not however, buy another power or air tool since they don’t hold up and by the time you add the extended warranty you can buy Makita, Dewalt. Etc.
Carl J
Depending on this trade/sanction thing plays out after yesterday’s White House announcement, it may become very difficult to buy HF 99 cent screwdrivers in the future.
Shane
Harbor Freight doesn’t inforce the mandate if customers wearing a mask when in the store, as our state has a requirement to do so to help protect our communities. So sadly I will not shop there anymore, which is a shame as they are great for a quick tool pickup at good prices, plus their coupons are great, but if the do not support protecting against covid19 spread, I can’t shop there.
Heather
HF employees would prefer for our customers to wear masks but we are NOT allowed to enforce it because doing so may jeopardize our safety.
HF is adamant that it’s employees do not put themselves in danger and asking or telling people to wear their masks has proved fatal to employees at other places.
Hang Fire
Heather, actually… that policy IS putting employees in danger. Think about it.
Joe
I understand where you’re coming from, but in places like NY, security guards have been attacked sometimes fatally for asking a ‘customer’ to wear a mandated face mask.
ktash
None of the stores, not just HF, seem to be enforcing this, for the reason others mention. For a while Home Depot was doing curbside pickup, but they discontinued it without notice, so when I went to pickup an order they wouldn’t give it to me unless I went into the store. Their pickup area is very enclosed, crowded, so I won’t be shopping at HD anytime soon. Their delivery systems are somewhat arcane and frustrating if you are trying to put together an order without going into the store. Luckily Ace still does the curbside pickup. I always try to shop there anyway.
I do admire HF donating all their masks and gloves to the hospitals early on when they were hard to come by. That means that I’ll be more likely to shop there in the future, or at least comparison shop on their website.
I’ve had good luck with a number of things that were for one-time jobs. I also get their chip brushes, gloves, masks, paint filters and the like. Still happy with the tool chest I got there some time ago.
They seem to be picking up some of the Sears type customers. Walmart tried to do that, but they don’t have the right image.
Steve
I have 2- 3 ton Pittsburg jackstands that have been recalled. Is there a Harbor Freight store near zip code 75801…Palestine, Texas?
Stuart
Sorry, doesn’t look like it.
https://shop.harborfreight.com/storelocator/location/map
Eric Maass
I’d agree with the article . 2 points however , 1 , I dont rule them out when buying little use tools for that odd job that comes up from time to time , but I find myself skipping them more and more and shopping Home Depot or Menards , simply cause the store here in Green Bay Wi is quite frankly a joke . Disorganized, always out of stock and checkout girls who hate their job . In contrast is the Harbor Freight in Appleton , Wi , total opposite and a joy to shop there , but it’s a 40 minute drive . 2 , sorry I still have a hard time letting go what Eric did to his father . I couldnt even imagine treating my father the way he has . For those that dont know , please Google and read .
DC
I sometimes order from HF as there are no stores in Hawaii. When I visited my wife in Frederick Maryland, I went to the closest (at that time) in Gaithersburg and bought their newly released 1/2″ breaker bar. When I got home, I replaced the pittman arm on my truck where the bolts were torqued down to 135 ft-lbf. On it’s first use it sheared the head right off. I finished the job with my 1/2″ Snap-on ratchet which loosened the bolt with ease. I still have it sitting on the garage floor as i may find some use for it someday.
DC
Just wish HF opens here, I want to pick up a Daytona 3 ton floor jack.
Mac
I use these tools every day, you cant compare Kline to harbor freight. Not even close, I use Kline that my dad used. Still like new. I go there for snap ties. 2 bucks for 100. I bought a pair of long nose they wood not close tight. Chinese junk, good for a homeowner that uses once a year. Sorry harbor freight, your selling items like WD40 for three bucks more than home D. Wood glue, more money.. Several things priced to high. I guess people just buy because of the convenience. I wonder what’s gonna happen when China is sanctioned.
Richard Callahan
I have shopped at Harbor Freight for years. It used to be a “one time use tool” store for me. Because, the quality wasn’t good and the prices were cheap. Over the years, I have found that the quality has been increasing steadily. There are still some cheap tools there that will work once and break. But for the most part, the quality has been coming way up and the prices increased a bit, but not as high as some brands. I used to buy Craftsman, Snap-On or Mac. But, now I go to HF more often first before going anywhere else. I have some HF tools that I use frequently and have had them for years. The best thing about HF is their return policy. It is so easy. I hope they continue to improve and offer reliable tools for a cheap price.
Tom H.
I shop st Harbor Freight and for the most part their tools do the job. Here’s one exception: stay away from the Self Centering Doweling Jig. Item 41345. The holes end up being drilled everywhere EXCEPT the center. No matter how many times you try.
Trust me on this one.
ktash
You must have gotten the offset doweling jig by mistake ;).
Seriously, you do have to pay a lot of money for a decent doweling jig, like Jessem. If you are making furniture, for instance. I tried a cheapie first, though not as cheap as HF.
Mark W.
I have bought a lot of HF tools, and most have given me very good value fotmecthr money spent. I love my cheap HF 4×8 folding utility trailer, and the blue nitrile gloves.
But, I’m cutting way back on goods from China. I’d rather buy items made in the US, Taiwan, Vietnam, etc than send money to a repressive government that brought us COVID 19, confrontation in the Pacific, and corruption in the WHO and UN.
If HF wants to sell to me, just put a little flag icon on each package (and each ad) denoting nation of manufacture. That way, I can avoid funding Chairman Xi and the PRC government. I’ve had enough, thanks.
Stuart
Please keep on topic – no politics!!
Brian
@Stuart .. there wasn’t any politics in his response, just facts. For years a lot of us have been begging for more transparency as far as tool manufacturing origin country marking goes, and prefer buying tools made in the States when we can.
Stuart
Talking about WHO, pandemic origins, confrontations over international water borders, and the PRC government – that’s all political.
His comment toes the line, going over it slightly but definitively, but my request was mainly intended to prevent further political responses and discussions. It’s easier for me to add a reminder or request when I sense it’s needed than to have to break things up once things get heated.
Ray CR
Stuart, it is geopolitics. When China two months ago stated it can at will decide to shut off our pharmacy supplies for critical and non critical drugs at will it shifts our relationship with them.
Accordingly, it becomes a moral issue buying their products. My former partner’s wife who is from Taiwan reads me articles from Chinese officials that are much worse than the above statement about their intentions and none are available in English. They do not even involve Taiwan. They involve us and our land in North America.
Stuart
All I’m saying is that politics don’t have a place here.
Politics almost always leads to uncivil comments. It’s easier to ban political discourse than to deal with inevitable heated arguments that always devolve into name-calling and personal attacks.
There are plenty of other places on the web for politics.
Jessie R
I live in Puerto Rico and travel to Fl. and Chicago to visit family and make it a habit to stop into HF and shop for tools and other accs. from gloves to drill bits and load my suit cases. I am looking that HF. will ship to Puerto Rico sometime soon.
DRT
Be very careful with your HFT 4×8. There was a recall on the tires. I had a tire on my HFT 4×8 disintegrate at 65 mph – fortunately nobody was hurt, but I lost the trailer. If you go to the HFT website, there is a page showing what models are affected.
Aldo
I.have done business with HF for years. I learned really quick not to buy any power tools from them. I buy hammers anvil doming blocks break benders etc. They are usually functional. When it came to spending Trump’s money( stimulus check) I bought a Hobart welder and Gas pony torches which I would never buy from HF. A few bucks is not worth a possible serious injury..
Joe
I luv their cheap 4-1/2” angle grinders , but I wouldn’t bother with their drills.
Bob
Can’t speak for others but the HF return policy around here is terrible. Need a receipt. No ifs ands or buts. No receipt no return. Has to be within 30days (not 100% on that one. Its been awhile) And certain items (like a floor jack I was gifted) have to be returned to the exact store they were bought at. I was pissed I had to drive an hour out of my way just to return the crappy floor jack. I would have regifted but I wouldn’t want any one getting hurt with it.
Home Depot and Lowes will take just about anything back receipt or not (they do keep the sales tax with out receipt). Normaly 90 days. Now 1 year (HD not sure about Lowes) due to covid.
Also I once brought back an almost empty box of deck screws. Damn things were tempered wrong or something and extremely brittle. Snapped alot of them. Wasn’t expecting a refund as I had to finish the job quick so made due. I just wanted them to know they had an issue with their existing stock. Sales lady was like leme get my manager. I was like “nah don’t worry about it just let the “boss” know their might be a problem with xyz screws”. She insisted. Manager was like “lets check it out”. Grabs 3 boxes and heads over to an impact tool display. Starts driving screws. Quite a few snap on him. Refunds my money and throws in a box of bits for my troubles. Also said they would be returning that batch of deck screws. Now THAT is a good return policy and customer service.
Cowboy
I can’t see Lowes ‘catching up’ with Home Depot in the tool arena. After all, HD has Ryobi, Ridgid, Makita, and Milwaukee tools plus Dewalt, and better (in my opinion) saw blades. I think the Craftsman line has taken a hit as Lowes now owns it. Lowes is in my town, and it is the smallest in the region and was an experimental store. Home Depot and Harbor Freight are 60 miles away. I live for the necessary trips to Tyler (for good medical that we do not have any closer) to ‘make the rounds’. And also, there is a Northern tool store in Tyler.
Yes, I shop Harbor Freight on every trip and have yet to be disappointed with any purchase. And they have a lot of things that the other big box stores do not have. Easier parking for one!
Cowboy
To add to my comment – being a woodworker and cabinet man, I also look for any opportunity to drive 150 miles to Houston for the nearest Rockler and Woodcraft stores for tools and supplies.
ktash
Whenever I drive anywhere, I look to see if a Rockler or Woodcraft store are on my route. I often buy their things online, but you can’t beat the stores. I’ve gotten some wonderful wood from them. I’d love to visit Canada and part of that would be a trip to Lee Valley. Not any time soon, due to the unfortunate situation with Covid-19.
Occasionally I look for a HF store as well. The closest one here is pretty small. I could spend hours in the Rockler or Woodcraft stores, though.
joe burke
In the last 5 years I’ve spent close to 25,000.00 at harbor freight and their extended warranty is 2nd to none. I have almost completely outfitted my entire shop almost completely with harbor freight tools. I’d just about rather spend every tool dollar there than at Lowe’s or home depot.
Ern
Hmmm I agree that they are a business and maybe bigger than compare to Ace hardware. Unfortunately, my personal experience as a new tools enthusiast and a DIY lover, shopping on their particular store, still a lot to improve on good customer satisfaction!!
Skip
I’ve been using ,(purchasing snap on Tools for 40 plus years)and have been considered and have purchased some tools from HF,on a day to day basis it is junk,I guess for the occasional user its appropriate,if and when the tool fails it’s going to hurt,where’s the manufacturer’s trace on accountability, your not going to find the kid who made it that recieved a bowl of rice and a fish head for a high production rate!
PJ Ward
I have a Harbor Freight about a mile from my house I love it I go in there so much all the employees know me and I spend quite a bit of money in there on tools. (Just bought the earthquakeXT) and I am getting quite the collection going on their Bauer brand power tools. It’s a great brand from a some what decent price. Definitely recommend anyone who has not been to go check it out. You won’t regret it.
Marc Cammack
The Hercules 12″ dual compound miter saw is top of the line. Same power and features as any other. $200 less. Excellent warranty. I have used mine many hours, no complaints.
Charles
The title should say do not over estimate harbor freight tools.
Steve
I started out with John Deere have a degree in John Deere Technologies when I was laid off in 08 and brought my tools home $54,000 worth mostly John Deere and Snap-on a year later we got robbed and all my tools were taken Insurance paid a quarter of that back I went to Harbor Freight replaced everything I needed for less than $8,500 and I’ll open my own shop working on heavy equipment from excavators to Skid Steers to bulldozers I’ve yet to break a single tool I don’t abuse them but I’ve yet to break one I personally have nothing but good things to say about Harbor Freight Tools although the manager can get a little testy that’s to be expected in his job he’s overworked I have two stores that are 20 miles away I go to both stores quite frequently my wife says I spend too much money but that’s what makes my business and I’m very thankful very thankful stressing that this company is in business they have saved my bacon
Hang Fire
Overpriced and over-promoted brand tools and equipment are a different kind of scam, as you found out with the insured value.
Sadly I’ve heard too many young mechanics thinking they’ll sell their tools “when they retire” from wrenching… as if they’ll go up in value or something. Then I see their mega-bucks box sitting on CL or FBMP for months at unrealistic prices. Same thing with certain color tractors. They go right down in value with every operating hour, just like the rest.
Paul
I have purchased several tools from Harbor Freight, mostly hand and pneumatic tools. I’ve found the cheaper the tool the lower the quality, especially on pneumatic tools.
Socket and wrench sets I’ve always gone with Pittsburgh Professional. They have outlasted some of my Craftsman stuff. Only problem I’ve ever had was a ratchet that couldn’t drive the socket, it just spun. Took it back to Harbor Freight and with no questions asked replaced it free of charge.
John
You’re buying tools from Harbor Freight that are made in China.
Stan Shapiro
So what?
Ever hear of Gearwrench?
Snap on sells the same product for 5 times the price.
SnapOn’s biggest customer is the US government… the military.
All of this may change when Trump gets rid of Chinese dependence.
India… Taiwan et al may well be the replacement… THAT remains to be seen.
In my opinion Harbor Freight offers a fantastic opportunity for DIY individuals to gain independence in a growing market.
My hat’s off to entrepreneurs like the people at HB.
Hang Fire
Wow what a deep insight… except it’s wrong, also Taiwan and India, and a smattering of other countries.
Jack
I have bought quite a variety of products from Harbor Freight. Tool storage has been great so far, tarps and covering have been decent, but the hand tools ARE NOT A STRENGTH of Harbor Freight. I have bought everything from screw drivers to plyers to vice grips, they are not that great of tools. I have bought some electric tools like the $10 angle grinder, and I have tried to burn it up and have not been able to. For now I will keep turning elsewhere to buy products made in the USA in an effort to keep what little manufacturing we have left.
Tristan
Apparently several of the commentators on this blog assume that because a company is located here in the U S that all its products are. Not true.
I’ve been in the automotive field for over 30 plus years and those GM, Ford and Chrysler products are far from being 100% American made.
To assume there’s a company producing goods out there that are totally made here is misleading.
Every company is in business to make a profit. Be it by material or employee wages cost.
I must say I’ve bought items from the big box stores and yes, HF and found great and unfortunately poorly made stuff at all of them.
What I do like about HF is they normally allow you to return a item pretty much hassle free.
I’ve shopped there and will continue to do so.
I’m like everyone else, I like a few bucks left in my wallet!
Bart
They’re an okay place to buy a tool you may need once or twice and you need it today. If I can wait or it is something that will be a regularly used tool, I buy elsewhere.
Most of their new “brands” seem to be their old Pittsburgh/Pittsburgh Pro offerings with a different label slapped on them. Oh yeah, because they’re a “premium brand” the 20% off coupon doesn’t apply anymore.
Joe Etchenberger
can be said that you don’t go to Harbor Freight for quality, and that you go their for cheap and even disposable tools, but that seems to be truer for critics and not loyal return customers.
THERE…
I was reading!!!!
kim
Didn’take time to read all. we all know about the comparison of opinions and a**holes. most of you are on target, the rest of your comments smell like the latter. Blessed they’re not running these companies.
Stuart
Wow, that’s quite antagonistic. And how does a comment like yours add anything to the conversation?
Bob B.
I’ve been buying and using Harbor Freight tools for years and generally very pleased. I initially did believe that their tools were a “use until they break” tool. I’ve come to consider their tools to be value priced especially considering I have some for over 20 years with periodic use. They work just fine. Also, I am very cautious for any tool I purchase to not purchase the cheapest priced ones, but usually purchase the “middle” priced line and up no matter which brand. Works well for me.
Mike
I went today to my local store looking to purchase one of the U. S. General 5 drawer tool cart that they have been advertising the hell out of promoting their new colors and they didn’t have one in basic black nor did any location within 30 miles. Their prices and return policy is awesome but if you are going to promote something at least stock that item. VERY PISSED OFF!
Hang Fire
You do realize there’s been a bit of disruption in the supply chain from China… don’t you? But don’t let me get in the way of your frustrated consumer rage.
Paul
First off HF stuff is not bad. Second, depends on what you are buying. Power tools at least used to be on par with store brands (Ryobi, Kobalt). All three have ratcheted up. I have a few HF power tools. A set of electric shears, a heat gun. Both are what I’d consider once in a while, non-critical tools. Overall I consider them not bad. If I only need occasional use and don’t have high expectations, it’s not bad. Some with their bench top tools. On the other hand we bought a buzz-box style welder and it was all but nonfunctioning right out of the box. If you don’t mind doing some work like installing real bearings, replacing defective power electronics, etc., you can get some good deals. There are tons of forum articles and youtube videos talking about ways of fixing (“upgrading”) the tools.
We also use their porta-powers (hydraulic jacks) a lot and have went through several sets. It really doesn’t matter which brand you have, even the super expensive yellow brand. They are used for mechanical maintenance tasks and they see a lot of use and abuse. They are going to get torn up no matter what.
In terms of hand tools, this is also kind of hit or miss. I have a dead blow from YEARS ago. As in I have no idea how old it is. Still going strong. I have lots of other tools like that. I have several of their bags, too. I find that tool bags are sort of tricky. There is no such thing as a “perfect” brand. Every brand has some specific bag that works for certain things but the rest are just OK.
Then we get to sockets. I really like their impact sockets. Then again…impact sockets…how can you go wrong? The problem though is that you can’t replace individuals. They would be great if I worked in a shop. I’m a road tech though…I lose a lot of tools such as dropping one in say a sewage tank. The free replacement service doesn’t do any good if I can’t return an actual part. I do agree that they are very thick and chunky and not necessarily the best built compared to a high end professional brand but I can buy EVERY series from HF for the price of one SK set, and probably have money to spare.
As another example HF sells insulated (electrical) screwdrivers. There are two different series. With both of them it’s fairly easy to chew up the insulation but this is also true of ALL brands of these things. But with the one with the nicer rounded handles the smaller 1/8″ blade chips incredibly easy. After replacing it 4 times, roughly once every 2-3 months, I finally gave up and got a Milwaukee (non-insulated) set to replace it. On the other sizes like Phillips #2 or 1/4″ flat blade, they are still going strong.
I also have a ball adapter for a hitch from them, extension cords, and many other items, too many to remember. All good.
But honestly which brand doesn’t have stinkers? Just because it is a tool truck brand as an example doesn’t mean that it’s any good. You have to really pay attention close to what you are buying. Just because it says Milwaukee or Dewalt on the side does not mean that it’s automatically a great tool.
Second, I like my tools but I don’t LOVE my tools. I use them every day. Anyone that earns a living working with tools knows that you have to have a tool budget. You are going to break or lose them. So you can’t fall in love with one. Worse still eventually every tool will get changed by the manufacturer for a “better” one…well better for them anyway. So eventually you are going to be disappointed if you get too hung up on one particular make/model.
As to HF premium tools, the thing is that this is another battery platform to deal with, and it’s a battery platform on a very narrow tool line so far. So I realize this is a chicken & egg problem but it’s kind of hard to switch midstream and there’s not a broad enough line to make sense in the first place.
Hang Fire
“First off HF stuff is not bad.”
First off, some of it was, and still is, horrendously BAD. Like the oil filter sockets, made of then brittle pot metal, that break on first use every time.
Toolfreak
Went to HF to get a file or a set of cheap files.
They had cheap individual files that were terrible quality for $3.49/ea, a “12 piece” set of the same poor quality files for $11.99, or a decent 5 piece set of 8 inch files sold as being 12 inch for $7.49 that was pretty much the same clean, decent quality 8 inch file set you get at walmart, but with yellow handles.
Not bad for 6 bucks and change with the 20 percent off and a free LED light.
Thing is, why carry the terrible qualty tools at all? Why have stuff out for sale that looks unsafe at best and like it will fall apart under any use at all? Why not just carry the 5 piece decent quality set, and maybe ones like it for the individual files as well?
There are actually a number of decent tools for the price to get at HF, but the store also carries so much junk just hoping people who don’t know any better will buy it, try to use it, then toss it when it doesn’t work or breaks. Maybe they will even go back to the store and buy the more expensive item if the cheap one didn’t work.
Harbor Freight could be a LOT better than it is now with some pretty easy tweaks. But they won’t because that’s not what they’re about.
The fact that they have “1000+” stores and are successful at getting people to pay money for stuff they sell in those stores doesn’t mean much. We all all know lots of people will buy cheap tools.
Frank D
I agree that going to HF would be a lot better if they removed half of the stuff they carry and diversified further. Way too many crap tools and consumbles that are either useless ( set of dull chisels … ) or simply not durable, while being sold at inflated prices for what junk it is. Then in some sections there is so much duplication, that it is not even funny. That would make a lot of room for handy things they don’t carry.
ktash
I have some HF chisels that I use as beaters. Most chisels, even higher quality ones, need sharpening to function well. The advantage to the cheap HF ones is that they sharpen more quickly (and dull more quickly)). I use them in lots of situation where I wouldn’t dream of using my Narex chisels. If they get chipped by a nail, no big deal. My first set of HF chisels came with a big chunk out of the edge of one of them. So, you need to inspect them carefully. I do love the little japanese saw from HF. Again, I use this as a beater tool so I don’t have to use my regular japanese saw. I’ve got several. They hold up surprisingly well for $7.
Eddie the Hook
Home Depot sells some good American made file, center punches & chisels. The Chisels are by Mahyew, or something like that. I use them often.
SteveP
I like Harbor Freight and I’m happy it is in the market. But they skew far to the heavy metal/auto side of the equation, with less for a woodworker or home handyman, IMO. So they are not going to replace HD/Lowe’s or even Ace Hardware. Ace was the only place I could find a half-decent fine-tooth handsaw a while ago. I could get a coarse combo 9pt at HD or Lowe’s, or a lovely saw at Lee-Neilson for $150. But only Ace had fine-tooth (21tpi)) and in both short and long.
I always find something extra to buy at HF, but the coupons are a marketing gimmick and irk me
Mike
As HF quality gets better, other companies cut quality to save a buck and/or compete on price. Eventually they will pass each other, one on the way up, one on the way down.
Robert Adkins
Years ago when I was lower on the economic ladder, HF made it possible for me to own things like a floor-mounted drill press, a large air compressor, pressure washers, and air tools that I never could have otherwise afforded. I appreciate that to this day.
Now, I can afford the best, but still buy about 1/3 of my tools and supplies from HF. Yes, there are some things I won’t buy from HF. I just bought 1 of their super-quiet oil-less compressors, and I love that little guy.
I’m going to enjoy HF while I can. The world is changing and HF may not be able to adapt.
Marc
I used a 3/4hp, 16 speed HF drill press on my farm for 40+ years, worked just fine. Paid $100. No repairs. Retired, gave it to my daughter two years ago, upgraded to Nova DVR. She uses the HF daily in a metal fabrication shop.
Kevin Wayne
One of their framing hammers exploded and throw metal into my arm, had to use a powerful magnet to get it out, felt great. I use a lot of their brushes and pick up my evaporust there, but that’s about it.
Hang Fire
I agree, the consumables are one of the great things about HF.
David
I have some hand tools from Harbor Freight. I consider most of them disposable but they get the job done. I would not want to depend on them for a living. Pliers and other tools that need some precision don’t seem good enough. The few power tools I’ve tired were terrible. I bought them as single-use disposable tools and they were still unusable for me. It’s 4-5 years so maybe things are better now with the power tools.
But, all companies erode the competition from the bottom up, so it makes sense that HF would be moving up the food chain quality wise.
OldDominionDIYer
Like many here I buy from Harbor Freight regularly, but it’s usually tools and equipment I will not have to rely on to protect my life. (Never Automotive Jacks, etc…) I do pickup stuff for projects that I don’t think I will be using regularly but would make a particular task easier than without the tool, but not worth a big investment in a Professional level high end branded tool. Plus they have a lot of things that are great for the consumer. I can’t honestly say I have given their ICON rolling tool boxes a close look but it’s on my list next time I’m visiting my local HF. It’s clear to me that from where I sit their tool quality is generally improving and that’s a good thing.
Steve Mabry
ICON was the junk brand of tools at sears, now it’s the high end tool of HF, there wrenches are expensive $160 for a full set, crescent wrenches are made in USA and are cheaper on Amazon $30 to $50 for full sets and actually perform better in many test, if your going to give your money to China, do it smarter, buy something that you can’t afford made in the USA like a tool box, but many hand tools you can afford made on the USA, and many times they can be less $, my portable air compressor is a rolair assembled in the US with many foreign parts, but mine was $400 made with European parts, the $300 one was made with Chinese parts, looked the same but I spent the extra money, good luck and God bless
Hang Fire
Stuart, such a large a bunch of one (and a few 2) sentence paragraphs makes for a hard read.
My take on HF as a business, is this is their moment (except for their COVID-19 disrupted supply chain), because Sears is shrinking rapidly and people need their tools quickly and locally (not 2 day wait for Amazon Prime).
As for their tool quality, my personal experience is that it is all over the map, from horrid to yeoman duty. That means one needs to either a.) exercise their return policy or b.) do Internet research first (takes 1-2 hours before each trip, time you may or may not have). Nowadays I can afford better, and if I don’t need better, I can still find anything HF has… from another brand.
OverKnight
I agree that the quality of Harbor Freight tools has improved, but as long as they continue with a 90-day warranty on their power tools, I’ll continue to shop elsewhere.
William Colello
Harbor freight tools are total junk with few exceptions.
Ed Piacenti
Just bought the 10″ buffer polisher. Does not come with the wool buffer pad, extra at 7.00. Cannot replace the foam pad attached to the machine they want you to use to apply the polish. When the foam pad wears out, you just trash the tool. Not very smart engineering. I apply the wax by hand anyway.
J.Bond
What is interesting is how they succeeded and Cummins tools did not
Mason
When i break a Pittsburg socket, i cam drive to the store in 10 minutes and get a new 1 and be back on the job in 30 minutes. When I break a craftsman socket it takes 6 weeks to get it replaced, and since I needed the job done today, i now have 2 sockets at 4x the price. Ive never broken a pittsburg box wrench, nor stripped a bolt with 1. Sure I dont expect their vice grips to last 6 months, or the channel lock jaws to hold like an irwin will, but I can get basic reliable hand tools for a fraction of the cost of craftsman, and i can fill a toolbox for the price of a snap-on half inch impact socket set. Whats not to like?
Robert
And I can honestly say that this is the truth. Harbor freight employee’s are second to none, and for power tools, Bauer and Hercules are right up there with the big boys toys. Ryobi, dewalt etc.. my most recent purchases a bauer compact 5.8 amp 4- 1/2″ circular saw is every bit as good as my worx(Rockwell) and craftsman circular saw, the bauer 7 1/2 amp hammer drill is a powerhouse, and the Hercules oscillating multi tool matches and maybe even out performs the Dremel mm 50 I own, and the Chicago electric oscillating multi tool I have is surprisingly good as well! Not to mention the 2 bauer sanders and a warrior detail palm sander that are all astounding as well.
Steff
I stop by Harbor Freight at least once a week, just to check out the new deals…as well as say hello to the friendly sales staff!!! Will always be a regular!!
Tabrad
HF fills a niche. Sometimes you need a once in a lifetime tool. Not a commercial level tool meant for everyday use. That is beauty of HF. You can get a concrete mixer for that once in a lifetime project for less than 200. It would cost nearly that to just rent one. And rental is time sensitive so if you have a project failure it we will cost you more. If you have project delay it will cost you more or the tool could not be available when you ready.
HF is for the novice and amateur DIYers who need that tool once of just a few times. Even for a professional, they sometimes need a one-time or rarely used tool at a practical price point.
Tim
I am a long time harbor freight customer so I’ve had good and bad experiences with tools that I’ve purchased. I would have to say 95% of what i have bought has exceeded my expectations and has lasted through years of use. Some things like the 20lb sandblaster and the 20 gallon parts washer have needed some modifications before they really excelled but i figure that between the actual tool and the modifications made i have still spent well under 50% of purchasing somewhere else and still have a tool that performs just as good. All of my hand tools “wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, etc” are harbor freight more specifically the Pittsburgh brand they sell and have held up under normal and even (abusive use…. although not recommended, but sometimes ya do what ya gotta do.) True, they dont carry every thing you could ever need like some specialty automotive tools or I’m sure there are specialty tools for other areas like woodworking, etc that you will have to buy elsewhere but in general they carry most everything a person could need and at a price that most anyone can afford. As far as bad tools they sell….. use a little common sense while shopping and look at what your buying, its capabilities, and what you intend on using it for….. don’t buy a $20 dollar cordless drill and think it will last under heavy use like a name brand drill. Dont buy a $20 dollar torque wrench and think your going to get bolts torqued to 1 ft lb of exact specifications. Dont buy a sheet metal brake thinking your going to bend 1/2″ steel plate when its max capacity is 20 gauge steel. Etc. Etc. For me personally the price point of there tools, the availability of the there stores as they are everywhere, and my own personal experience will keep me as a lifelong customer.
Bill
Buying from the store was always worked well. I had the mistake of using a on line purchase. Part arrived but didn’t fit. I was allowed to return it to a local store but shipping costs were not refunded. Beware of using there on line parts supplies it could cost you. I send them an email expressing my frustration, never even received a reply.
Chris Cheehan
Harbor Freight has great pricing on more than tools. Automotive accessories such as tarps, solar arrays and even spray glue are excellent quality, and substantially less expensive at HF
CamBol
And they’re always willing to accept 20 % off coupons.
Wayne ball
Harbor freight sucks ass in my book they are crooks they rob you of your warranty money and you lose out and are either forced to buy the tool again or lose out
Charlie Luffy
I have several Harbor Freight tools as well as Craftsman, Snap on, Mac ,Cornwell and Stanley none have failed me yet also have Rigid and Ryobi as well as Work Force, Earthquake and thus far Rigid by far the best power tools but the HF Earthquake is a beast by far better than Dewalt impacts I’ve used. They are improving as a company and I will continue buying there.
Stuart Slaymaker
I used to restore old Hudson cars, with hand tools. Every time I walk into Harbor Freight Tools, I make a comment: “Where was all this, forty years ago???!!! I might not have arthritic hands, if I’d had one of their compressors, and a small air wrench!!! I love HFT. P.S. I LOVE the free flashlights!
Ed piacenti
Must have fallen on hard times. No more freebies here.
Curtis
Interesting choice of tools at the top. If you actually need a set of linemans pliers then chances are excellent that your employer provides them for you. I can’t imagine the dubious looks my coworkers would give if they handed us HF nines.
Rob
I have to agree with the comments about the hand tools being ok but the electric ones not so…something wrong when you buy a power tool and the thing comes with an extra set of brushes for the motor.. I had a little table saw I bought there about 10 years ago. That motor sounded like it hit 10 grand when you turned the thing on. But I did have a wet tile saw, belt drive I bought there once, i wish I had that thing back. The blade was junk but the saw was awesome.
SteveP
Has anyone found decent nuts & bolts there? I bought a cheap set marked 4.8 grade just to have on hand, but I would never trust them for anything remotely safety related.
Tim Gebers
I have a ton of HF tools and use them a lot, I do the mechanic work for my entire family.
I have only had 1 failure trying to break an axle nut loose on a 2004 dodge 3/4 ton pickup (275 lb torque spec.) While I held the HF 25″ breaker bar in place my brother in law 325 lbs jumped up and down on it after about 10 jumps the drive end broke off inside the socket, my local store was sold out so they gave me a 3/4 drive breaker bar and an adapter for the 1/2 drive socket.
Jose Santiago
Bought a house cheap. Needed alot off work and was going to do job myself. Really didn’t have the extra money for tools. Thank god for Harbour Freight. All the tools that I got from Harbour Freight years ago still work.
Charles Kirby
I have found these are limited use tools… Around the home and in personal tool boxs…. it has been my experience that the sale prices advertised are not always honored at the cash register… yesterday a $20+ buffer was on sale for $13… at the register none of the sale prices were honored !!!!
The day before a friend and I went in the same store, he bought similar items and received the sale price on everything.. we both receive the sale papers at home and our phone numbers are in there system… This happens frequently to both of us. Sometimes one or both… depends on the cashier !!!!! Makes you think they might be dishonest !!!! Old bait and switch !!!!
Marc Cammack
The Hercules 12″ dual compound miter saw is top of the line. Same power and features as any other. $200 less. Excellent warranty. I have used mine many hours, no complaints.
Debra Tarver
I haven’t found that at all. As a matter of fact they seem to have a larger supply of whatever they put on sale. Also, speaking from a female’s point of view…I would rather shop Harbor Freight than our local mall simply because Harbor Freight seems to keep my curiosity peaked about what does what and how can I use this in my day-to-day life. Also, every time I visit my local Harbor Freight store…I observe that there are more and more female shoppers.
Vaporhill
While the tools are cheaper, I find that the cost benefit analysis usually comes out in favor of HF tools. Im a framer/hangar and usually stop by HD at least twice a week but recently Ive been finding plenty of great quality products at HF. Case in point, the impact rated Phillips bits are way cheaper and last just as long. When my dealt impacts start failing me, I will switch battery platforms and pick up a Hercules impact set. My dealt set I can usually get about a year of good usage out of it, if I can get 9 months out of a Hercules Ill be a lifetime customer.
Robert whitehall
I have been buying from HF for 15 years. I started with their catalog. I am lucky enough to have one of their stores in my city. Their quality has improved tremendously in the past 10 years. I am a tradesman i would put their Bauer line up against any tool on the market.
Thomas burke
HF .. like it or not is a Chinese company.. and they really like copying thing .. its considered a mark of excellent… the problem I have is to be cheaper then your competition you have to use cheaper raw materials or delet features on tools that are possible made in the same factory building.. that being said for harry home owner and not Joe contractor HF tools will get the job done once every month.. if you are making a living from your tools .. stick to bullies on the block.
Stuart
Harbor Freight is an American company.
Jim Stinson
I bought 2 generators after Hurricane Laura went thru Lake Charles. A 9000 watt and a 6500 watt. Predator brand sold at HF. BOTH machines ran almost 24 hrs a day for 5 weeks. Flawlessly, I might add. I definitely have no 8ssues with HF.
Joe Parugrug
I am really disappointed….I needed a 4 lb bottle jack……The staff kept telling me to come back for 3 weeks and it never showed up….then I needed a jig saw and the one I needed never showed up for 2 weeks…..I am done with harbor freight!!!! Going to Amzon for my tools…..sad..
JohnGo
I am not the biggest fan of harbor freight. The quality of the tools are sub standard. The sockets, rachets, extensions, adapters. And just about every other tool aimed at turning wrenches. Break shortly after purchase. I have yet to finish a job without returning to the store to replace something that failed during the job. I purchased the 10’x16′ portable garage. It did not fair well with the weather conditions…
So, before anybody rushes out to make a purchase. Be aware.. The money you spend now will likely be the Money you’ll end up spending again. That said.
Research research research
Then don’t be upset when you are there spending the same money again,
David B Hayward
When I worked in New Jersey I shopped at Harbor Freight in New Jersey. When I retired, I shopped at Harbor Freight in the Bronx. Now that we have one closer to me in Westchester County, New York I shop there. I get their coupons and I use them. When I don’t have a coupon I still go there because it’s the best bang for my buck. It is a great, great store. I look forward to going there and I always come out with a lot more than I planned on buying.
Kenneth W Kayser
I bought something “mail order” over the phone but dont recall just what from Harbor Freight in probably San Fransisco in 1976 when it was a one man operation. Never forget his name was Mac Davis but not the Mac Davis!
Wilson
Their air compressors are junk but you get what you pay for. Also bought the Braun 20v impact and it had plenty of power but the bits wouldn’t stay seated in the head of the screw like a dewalt or name brand impact. The Hercules is a better product by far for cheaper. Some tools you can’t skip on brand but alot you can.
J Walkin
First drain cleaner frame bent beyond product assembly and not useable.Got second Drain cleaner after arguement with Danny Dist mgr. This one appears undamaged, but pin retaining drum was laying in bottom of box. Drum walks forward, belt jumps off. AGAIN I HAVE UNUSEABLE NEW PRODUCT FROM HARBOR FREIGHT. Now a return is required for a PUMP OR SPRAYER for this device. IT IS NOT A PUMP OR SPRAYER but it is POS. I WILL BE CALLING CORPORATE MON.
Ex-HFT Employee
I used to work ata harbor freight retail location, and have stayed in contact with many of my old co-workers who still do.
I can say with some confidence that the company has an incredible profit margin, somewhere around 40-50% average across all items with that number generally increasing on more expensive items. This is largely in part thanks to them owning nearly all the brands they sell. In training, I was given an example list of store vs national brands and my easiest way to explain it is that if you’ve never seen a brand in another store, HFT owns it.
I was actively there when the company hit 1000 stores, I seem to remember around July of 2019. We were all given new hats for the occasion and I know of 4 more stores that have opened in my area since then.
Recently, I was back at the store to get a small compressor for hobby use and in conversation with one if my old supervisors i was informed that the pay structure had changed. When I had started with the company in March of 2019, in my area (which uses the $7.25 federal minimum) new part-time employees were starting at $9.75/hr, with the opportunity to make commission off of warranty and Club Membership sales. However, now anged to a flat $12.35/hr without commission. 1/2
Ex-HFT Employee
2/2
This change is pay structure is much better for the logistics workers who had limited opportunity to work register, though from my experience I would guess that most sales associates are making more under this new structure as well.
I could go on, though I’d rather just answer what questions I can at this point. If you have any, I have notifications turned on for replies to both my comments, if I see it, I’ll answer.
My best piece of advice for shopping at the store, however, is to look at how things are made whenever possible, though not from a quality standpoint. What I noticed while working there is that many items (for example the Central Pneumatic and Diablo air hose reels) are virtually or even literally identical between two “competing” products, with one being sold as a more premium item. Save your money and look at what you’re buying.
Chad
Sorry, nothing beats a pair of Klein’s. I will put a 5 year old set of kleins against anyone elses new pair. The price may be cheaper and leverage and such may be comparable but kleins will out last them all. They will cut sharper much longer. I have tried them all, cant beat kliens in the end game. Harbor frieght has some great hand tools that i will buy long before other brands. Diesel mechanic by trade, i have plenty of HF tools i use daily. I do not buy HF electric tools, the abuse i am going to put them through demands better. Air tools are hit or miss. I have had to buy a few through the years as i broke mine and needed a replacement now to finish the job. Some have done lots better than expected and lasted years. A few have failed quickly.
BRENT KARL HEGERHORST
In the past I bought a lot of tools from HF. My son loves Milwaukee etc and has persuaded me to look at others as well. I have found that for cordless tools the HF versions are not that much cheaper (unless you have a coupon and a sale). Even ryobi comes with a 3 year warranty. Most of my cordless tools are ridgid and ryobi. If you buy things on sale the ridgid and ryobi rival the price of HF. But the quality of ridgid/ryobi is higher and the warranty for HF is only 90 days. How can 90 days complete with the ridgid lifetime warranty. I have also found that Home depot often has better tools for less (husky tie downs for example). Now that HF is not giving out the 20% coupons anymore, I think I will be buy even less there. Sometimes less cost up front does not mean less cost in the long run. Recently I had to cut some rebar and other metal bars. I compared the HF warrior saw blade brand VS Milwaukee and Diablo. The HF blades would be ruined before the cut was even really started. Milwaukee would do several cuts. But nothing could beat Diablo. Diablo is expensive normally but recently I was able to get 28 blades for 29 dollars. Sometime HF tools are great. I still buy a lot of things there but I always look at what HD and lowes have and compare price and quality. HF obviously wants to compete with Milwaukee, Ridgid, Dewalt etc. But you can’t do that with a 90 day warranty at comparable prices.
Chad
Sorry, nothing beats a pair of Klein’s. I will put a 5 year old set of kleins against anyone elses new pair. The price may be cheaper and leverage and such may be comparable but kleins will out last them all. They will cut sharper much longer. I have tried them all, cant beat kliens in the end game. Harbor frieght has some great hand tools that i will buy long before other brands. Diesel mechanic by trade, i have plenty of HF tools i use daily. I do not buy HF electric tools, the abuse i am going to put them through demands better. Air tools are hit or miss. I have had to buy a few through the years as i broke mine and needed a replacement now to finish the job. Some have done lots better than expected and lasted years. A few have failed quickly.
Dennis Tate
The Doyle cutters are kliens old model. In my industry all the guys use Knipex except me.. after you lose 3 pair of $50 cutters I bought a pair of Doyle and the first pair I had for 2 yearsand lost them then I bought 2 more pair. They cut just as well as knipex or kliens all the guys in my union would talk shit “you borrow your kids dykes today? ” until they used them and I told them why they worked so well. When Klein’s patent ran out Doyle stole their design. So they are identical to Klien’s old model and yes they last just as long.. I have the 8″ cutters not the linemans pliers. All the Doyle tools are remakes of old patents Klein, Crescent, Channel Lock…. Doyle tools are the only tools I buy from HF .. and the Ratchets.. those are good too.. well the new ones are..
Buzz
Dennis, my question to you is; do you make it a practice in your business to buy knock offs of products that may have taken a long time to design and manufacture just to save a few bucks? If you don’t understand what I’m talking about just wait until some other electrician comes in and takes your job because he works for a few bucks less
Peter K
I have a bunch of the Bauer cordless tools and the Hercules and they keep up with my DeWalt cordless tools pretty closely.
Zach
Here’s what’s not trash at HF: OEM tools, super lube, iron armor bed liner, sand paper, wire brushes, mighty vac and micro fiber towels. Here’s what I know.
– Bought a vice: pipe jaws busted off, regular jaws busted off and anvil dents
– 20K rpm die grinder: only has 1 speed; has 0 torque and bogs down or stalls
– same 20k rated sand paper cartridge’s for this grinder explode as soon as it’s turned on
– Razor blades: last 2 cuts
– palm sander: (bauer) has 5 speeds; using any speed lower than 5 and it will not spin when placed on a surface
– Drill: cord caught fire
– crows foot set: multiple were not within spec for size listed
– paint guns (multiple) leak, get stuck or just do not work
– Sockets: incorrect sizing for whats listed; constantly break
– belt sander: will not stay on track, constantly adjusting back and forth; shreds belts
– multi-tool wood blades: teeth falling off after 1st use on plaster
– air hose – 1 year later cracked and leaking all over
– Punch and chisel set: you can probably guess what happened to these
As you can see after this I’ve stopped buying anything except the fore mentioned products from HF because everything in there is junk.
Ken N
Similar to my experiences….totally hit or miss with their stuff. I’ve had a socket break in half in first use. But I have tools (a $10 angle grinder) that I’ve used for years. Bought a Dremel knockoff that never worked right–the chuck never fully tightened. I figure I could do the exchange thing, but then you just get a new piece of junk. It’s probably a wash, the savings on the stuff that works balances out the losses on the stuff that doesn’t. But I like the competition for the Orange store and the Blue store, and I like the fact that I can get in and out in five minutes and not wear down my bad ankles and back.
Bill
You know what I use those 10 dollar grinders for? Everything. The front of my bench has a line of them. One has a grinding wheel. One has a flap wheel. One has a fine wire cup brush. One has a twisted wire coarse cup brush. One has a cutoff wheel. And one has a twisted wire flat brush. Saves alot of time changing attachments. When one burns up I throw it in the trash without sheding a tear, and get my 10 dollar spare off the shelf. Try it you’ll love it.
Marc
I have been using many HF tools for over 30 years on a farm. The only failure was a 3/4 drive ratchet that I “helped” with a 6′ pipe. Actually didn’t break, bent it.
SteveBausch
At the moment, I have 4 sets (top and bottom) of the WalMart Hart brand roll-around and top chest.
24″ deep, all drawers are 36″ (nominal) wide. Total width is 12ft (nominal).
Set me back less than $2,700 for a total of four sets.
I think they are a great balance of features.
SteveBausch
No mention of Menard’s?
I drive past our Lowe’s, then a mile or more, for Menard’s.
Home Depot is twenty miles away, easily.
I don’t expect Lowe’s to survive another ten years.
Stuart
Menards is not a national chain.
Ron
Lot of spammers on this comment section. Tools from HF are made in china and we know how wonderful chinese quality is. No true tradesman would use that junk.
David
I decided today I would never buy anything from hf again ever. I brought a backpack sprayer and the strap broke before I used it. Since it was out of the box they wouldn’t replace it at the store and the customer service? Forget it. I need a sprayer by tomorrow, not in a couple of weeks. If they won’t stand behind their stuff then that’s it!!!