Harbor Freight recently sent out an email, promoting their new Hercules 20V Max brushless angle grinder that we recently posted about.
In that email, Harbor Freight showed the above image, saying that their brushless motor tech is jobsite tested technology, delivering up to 45% more runtime.
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Their “learn more” link directs readers to a Hercules cordless power tool landing page, where there is a single panel briefly describing brushless motor tech as more efficient.
They tout intelligent electronic communication between motor and battery, and batteries that deliver extended performance.
See Also: Power Tool Tech: Brushless Motors 101
Harbor Freight has also teased about new Hercules brushless cordless power tools, set to launch in Spring 2021. That puts the following new tools at roughly 4-7 months out.
There will be a new Hercules brushless reciprocating saw, featuring an anti-vibration design and keyless blade change. Harbor Freight says it will deliver 60% more cuts per charge.
The new Harbor Freight oscillating multi-tool is said to have a universal blade interface, keyless accessory change, and deliver constant power under load.
Lastly, there is set to be a new brushless Hercules circular saw, with 7-1/4″ blade size, right-facing blade, and 2-1/2″ max cutting depth at 90°.
We don’t really know much more about these upcoming Harbor Freight Hercules 20V brushless power tools, but it’s certainly interesting to know they’re working on an expansion.
Why tease about these new tools now? Harbor Freight may be looking to lure over new customers and Hercules cordless power tool users. Knowing what’s on the horizon can be quite convincing to those shopping for specific tools now and with plans to upgrade or expand their kit in the future.
I wonder – is brushless motor tech jobsite tested because other brands have fielded such tools for years now, or has Harbor Freight ramped up their R&D efforts, sending prototypes out into pro users’ hands in a similar manner as some other brands have been doing.
Mopar4wd
While I buy a number of things at HF I still don’t see the added value in their cordless offerings. I can get bigger brand tools with better warranties for similar prices. Really think they need to relook into their unbundled tools sales model and warranties.
I mean I ended up with Ryobi (being a loyal dewalt guy) thanks to a super cheap holiday bundle and have since added many more tools and batteries, I don’t see the same deals at HF
NoDeuces
Two things, you can’t get cheaper batteries (even though these are horrid) and this is a long-term play for HF. I liken it to Hyundai automobiles. At some point, they split off a formerly value brand to a high margin pseudo luxury brand (Genesis).
fred
About the only things I buy at HF are chip brushes and nitrile gloves.
I have not been to Harbor Freight since the Pandemic started – so I’ve been spending quite a bit more with online purchases of nitrile gloves – and starting to run low on 1 inch chip brushes.
Back on topic – I think that HF has to overcome the perception that Hercules tools will be a “flash in the pan” – like so many other tools that HF has sold over the years. As just a casual observer, I’ve noticed what seems to be more turnover in brand-names and model numbers at HF than I’ve seen with the major brands.
Furthermore – while you can purchase spare parts for tools from other brands – even house brands like Kobalt from folks like eReplacementParts.com – where can you get service parts for a HF-brand tool?
When what you buy at HF is a cheap consumable – or even a 1 use tool at a very low price – then they look appealing. If they plan to step up and use Hercules tools to compete with folks like Dewalt and Milwaukee – then they have to rethink their warranty and service part strategies.
Adrian
Same boat as you. Total dewalt dude but couldn’t resist getting into the ryobi line cus it’s dirt cheap and you don’t need top of the line for LED lights or light duty stuff (or backup tools). Also direct tools outlet is dirt cheap for ryobi stuff and I am addicted LOL!
TonyT
You gotta watch Direct Tools – I’ve gotten some great deals from there, but sometimes HD is cheaper.
I think Ryobi is a great system to be in, even if it’s not your main one, because of all the fun tools at reasonable prices. (Currently, I’m at Ryobi, Bosch 12V, Makita 18V (for the track saw), and M18 (for the drain auger))
Phaserhawk
Same. Far too often I need a tool and while Ryobi isn’t cheap they aren’t expensive and they have some solid stuff. I think it’s just not smart to be solely in one battery line. While sale prices can make pricey stuff reasonable sometimes you need a tool now and to pay $100 or more for Milwaukee or Makita when I can pick up a Ryobi anytime it just doesn’t make sense. I’m slowly phasing out my Dewalt 18v as you can’t get batteries and the adapter just isn’t good so I’ve bought quite a few Ryobi. I’m half in M12 half in Bosch 12v and I have a M18 drill but waiting to see what I need before I really go all in. I just see Ryobi as that jack of all trades master of none, they are a great system to fill out a collection. But if you need raw power or torque or everyday use they just can’t hold up, nor were they meant too. After 2 window shutters destroyed so learned Milwaukee isn’t the best for delicate work even their m12 fuel is too much hence my Bosch. I loved the Makita 12v but selection is lacking and while it is more comfortable, the pistol style of Milwaukee and Bosch is much better in close spaces. I don’t trust Dewalt to support their 12v and they seem to be leaning more toward their Atomic line. HF I just don’t see them long term committing to their tool line.
Tom D
They keep trying so they must be selling – but their prices are just below big red/big yellow on sale. Haven’t seen the value proposition yet – maybe compared to Walmart brands or something.
Sam
I like the layout of the ad they made. Looks like Milwaukee style!
John
It’s a bit of a stretch to think that pro users are interested in adding another battery eco system to their toolbox, just because these tools are now brushless. Harbor Freight’s pricing is too close to the yellow and red brands, so there’s no incentive for someone to switch to Hercules. I think challenging Milwaukee and DeWalt will be a tough row to hoe for Harbor Freight. Besides the obvious comparisons to the pro brands, it would be interesting to see how these stack up to Hart and Black & Decker. Harbor Freight would be better off marketing these as jobsite quality tool at DIY prices, instead of comparing themselves to the big dogs.
Tom D
I think we must be misinterpreting their market – it’s not tradesmen – it’s prosumers who are already shopping at harbor freight. People who would grab Hart at Walmart or similar – who leave the battery in the tool and don’t really do an “ecosystem”.
Frank D
Would have to disagree a little bit there, PRO-SUMERS (such as myself) do NOT buy any power tools at WM nor HF. Consumers and people on a tight budget may, but PRO-sumers would only touch a HF tool if somebody else owned it, and they needed to get something done … or maybe if there is some local emergency, a couple tools are needed, and the least expensive tool gets purchased as a one time use deal to get one or more things done. Something I have done, flying in with just a backpack (no tools) after a natural disaster, to help family, need to do x y z, no tools, let me grab this and that at HF as the cheapest path to get back on track.
Lesford Dixon
Can’t wait for the Hercules 20v cordless jig saw, oscillating tool and circular saw to be released .