Latest tool buys

[OldCarGuy]

Fifty years ago Harbor Freight was only mail order. And the tools that my co-workers purchased there were pure junk. Forty years ago they opened a Cleveland area branch. Being in the market for a roller tool box I stopped by to look at their US General. And quickly decided it wasn't worth the effort to load in my truck. Even if it was free. Additionally the only items I'd likely purchase there were Goodyear air hoses and some Channellock products. I had to wonder why they were only tools locked up in a display case.

Thirty years ago I paid $50.00 for hardwood floor nailer from them. What did I have to loose, it was less than renting one. It has installed thousands of square feet of floors in four homes. And still ticking.



My 24' by 30' living room with solid 3/4" Bruce urethane coated oak flooring 25 years ago. 


I ran out to purchase this 1/2" stub impact wrench because none of my Ingersoll Rand's would fit into the tight place in my motor home.



Two other air tools I purchase from Harbor Freight in the past ten years. I purchased them substantially less than major name brand. And they do their job..

Air hammer once again and sheet metal crimper...


Sheet metal crimper used on my grandson's F150 installing patch panels... 








I replaced both front fenders rather using patch panels... Far less work..


I do believe that Harbor Freight does sell some decent quality tools. That will get the job done, at far less cost than the big name brands. You need to purchase wisely. 

[Hickory n Steel]

HF definitely has some stuff that's worth buying.
With very few exceptions I stay away from their hand tools because I prefer to buy American whenever possible, but there aren't a lot of stationary power tools made in the US today.

[OldCarGuy]

Don't take me wrong. I'm saying fifty years Harbor Freight products were inferior. And I wouldn't purchase anything from them. They improved their products over the years. And I have purchased some tools. Like the examples I posted. However I would never purchase a jack stand from them. Nor a car lift if they offered it. I value my well being far more than saving a few bucks. 

[Hickory n Steel]

Don't take me wrong. I'm saying fifty years Harbor Freight products were inferior. And I wouldn't purchase anything from them. They improved their products over the years. And I have purchased some tools. Like the examples I posted. However I would never purchase a jack stand from them. Nor a car lift if they offered it. I value my well being far more than saving a few bucks. 

A lot of their stuff is better than it was  just 15 years ago even.
Like every retailer that sells tools they have stuff I will buy and stuff I won't.