Harbor Freight Tools that don't suck

[bcp]

Would be nice if there was an across the board standardization of batteries but that is probably wishful thinking.

Flashlight batteries, for example.

Bruce

 

[scootr]

I use Dewalt 18v everything... because that was king when I started my collection. 15 yrs later I have everything worth running 18v and lots of big 6a batteries. On Amazon I found an 18v power cord adapter for Dewalt, $2. I now run remove ring doorbell cameras on them. 6a battery lasts a long time and tells me if somebody is sneaking around the back of the barn etc.

 

[KubotainNH]

Never got into the Herc line actually as I was already committed to the Bauer batteries than don't fit the Herc tools. Would be nice if there was an across the board standardization of batteries but that is probably wishful thinking.

In a way it reminds me of T4 final tractors with their computer controls. Every tractor makes has a different software package and no 2 interchange so you cannot use the diagnostic equipment for say a Kubota and use it on a John Deere as an example.

Amazon has adapters for these. Interesting that it says fits Hercules and Dewalt. That makes me wonder about buying some Hercules bare tools to use Dewalt batteries we have. Can anyone confirm a Dewalt battery works in a Hercules tool?

Amazon.com : bauer hercules battery adapter

Edit:
I waited a bit to post this and others have said similar things before I submitted. BTW, I bought my son an adapter to use the newer Dewalt slide on batteries in his older Dewalt tools. It works great and really woke up his cordless circular saw. He did burn up the drill after a few years of use, not sure if the batteries were too much for it or if it was just worn out.

 

[scootr]

Google says > Yes, with the help of an adapter, a DeWalt battery can be used in a Hercules tool.

 

[KubotainNH]

Google says > Yes, with the help of an adapter, a DeWalt battery can be used in a Hercules tool.

The link I list above lists in most of the items that they are "Compatible with DeWalt & Hercules 20V Batteries" for use in Bauer tools. This makes me think a Dewalt battery should fit directly into a Hercules tool without an adapter and vice-versa. That would be a nice thing to know. There's a few Hercules bare tools I'd like to own if the batteries I have would be a direct fit.

Another Edit:
Google says no to direct fit but maybe that adapter has the proper cutouts to fit both battery packs which would make me think they are super close to being the same.

 

[jyoutz]

Never got into the Herc line actually as I was already committed to the Bauer batteries than don't fit the Herc tools. Would be nice if there was an across the board standardization of batteries but that is probably wishful thinking.

In a way it reminds me of T4 final tractors with their computer controls. Every tractor makes has a different software package and no 2 interchange so you cannot use the diagnostic equipment for say a Kubota and use it on a John Deere as an example.

You get committed for a particular tool line because of batteries. I ended up buying the Hercules tools because of a really good deal I got on a grease gun. Bought a battery and charger ($99) and got the grease gun free ($139 regular price). So I got the whole shebang for $99. But since I had the charger and battery, I was sucked into more Hercules tools and batteries. I would compare them to my Dewalt tools.

 

[Grumpycat]

Flashlight batteries, for example.

Yes, "standardization" of AAA, AA, (used to be an A), C, and D.

"The good thing about standards is there are so many there is one which says anything you want."

 

[jjeff]

Anyone have any experience with either a Fortress or McGraw hf 20-30 gallon air compressor? Or thoughts on them? kind of need a new one in that somewhat mobile size range for my place up north would like to keep it under $400. Would be used extensively for a little bit when I'm up there then sit unused for months stored and used in a
unheated garage so cold startup would be important in winter. Current almost 20 yrs old 26 gal. craftsman with oil less integrated pump motor has been great for and invaluable. I think it has decent ss reed valves or something like that. are the harbor freight brands comparable? excessive noise decibels aren't an issue with me in fact I like louder in case I forget and leave it on I'll hear it cycling at night from cabin and shut it off. Lol

 

[Topzide]

My buddy has a HF oil-less compressor. He hasn't any issues over the years he has had it. I think you'll be fine with your use. They stepped up their game on a lot of their products. I had one of their old red hotdog compressors back in the day. It died from rolling around in the back of the truck, not from being a dud.

 

[Fuddyduddy1952]

I've had this HF (oil) compressor for many years. I can't remember what I paid but I'm guessing about $150. Then a few years ago I saw they had a 28° framing nailer on clearance. 30 degree nails work fine in it.
My contractor friend & I were building a tack room in the horse stable and both his expensive compressor and nailer quit so I got mine. They both worked great and he was surprised.