Harbor Freight Tools that don't suck

[KubotainNH]

The Bauer is supposed to be ordinary and Hercules is supposed to be professional grade according to their marketing scheme.

That's how I see it. On the HF website they show them all including Earthquake which also has some Lithium tools now. The listing is kinda comical... "Hercules- legendary performance for the pro". That can be taken good or bad, time will tell. Too new to be a legend.

 

[hutchman]

That's how I see it. On the HF website they show them all including Earthquake which also has some Lithium tools now. The listing is kinda comical... "Hercules- legendary performance for the pro". That can be taken good or bad, time will tell. Too new to be a legend.

Hype - Harbor Freight style. Now that 'is' legendary.



"Professionally Made in China"

 

[hutchman]

Didn't notice this before ... has Jacobs chuck:

 

[TemporaryKubotaOwnerMark]

Hype - Harbor Freight style. Now that 'is' legendary.

Yep.

But I still have zero sympathy for people who actually believe it. Buy the stuff knowing what you're getting, and why it's so cheap.

Don't buy the hype.

 

[SpringHollow]

Purchased their demolition hammer for a recent project and I was extremely impressed with how well it worked and the anti-vibration feature was fantastic. The hammer went through 5" concrete and 2" rock layers quite well.

12.5 Amp SDS Max Type Pro Demolition Hammer Kit

 

[PJSprog]

I do like the paddle design, very easy to remove power to the unit. I just wish the lever was more robust.

I bought the paddle switch model a few months ago. I've only used it so far on one small project, but I already liked it better than the slide switches. I guess I'll see how well it holds up over time.

 

[Gary Fowler]

I do like the paddle design, very easy to remove power to the unit. I just wish the lever was more robust.

I have had the paddle type grinder for over 5 years and never had an issue with the paddle switch breaking. It has fallen off my fab table numerous times without damage. Maybe you just got a bad one OR you are putting pressure on the paddle switch wrongly. I am unsure how one could break that paddle unless you are hanging it up on something and inadvertently pulling up on it.

 

[Gary Fowler]

I see the Hercules has a slide switch. I've found the paddle switch on the existing model to be much more convenient than the slide switch on their cheaper grinders. Comments?

I too do not like the slide switches as they tend to wear out on the lock and wont stay running without you constantly holding the switch. I prefer the paddle switches.
I addition to not staying locked on which is a bit aggravating, the lock on style really are not as safe as the paddle switch that cuts off when you release the trigger. However after a little use, the slide switch also releases (most of the time) when you take your hand off it but it is not comfortable to hold the small slide on like it is with the paddle.

 

[Barnbuilder]

Are their impact sockets any good? I purchased a Makita 1/2" cordless impact wrench and was wanting some sockets for it. Must say I'm very impressed with the Makita.

 

[California]

Based on my limited experience - maintaining farm equipment, not journeyman all-day use - The black deep sockets sets which include a metal case for $20 are excellent.