- Status
Well friend Harbor freight is like digging for gold. There are a few jems in the store. I have some of their equipment and it works well. I have the cast iron lathe, its a solid performer. But I do not do lathe work everyday, so it is fine for me. I purchased a Fillister/Duplex Rabbiting plane from there for 14.00, It is made from cast iron and once tuned up works wonderfully. There are large groups of people that have purchased the 2HP DC and love it. But it comes down to you get what you pay for. I know the motors from HF are notorious for not lasting the long haul so I put a couple dollars away every other payday for my lathe when the motor craps out. There are things like hammers, pin and brad nailer's, clamps and other stuff that you can invest in and get a good return for your dollar in longevity. I don't expect to get top of the line there, but every once in a while if you pay attention you can get some great stuff there.
Mike,
I picked up their "2HP Dust Collector" last spring. This one.........
Harbor Freight Tools - Quality Tools at the Lowest Prices
It went together pretty easily and has performed well for the price. I paid $119 with coupons and a sale. I keep telling myself that I need to upgrade the bags to at least 1 micron. Just haven't gotten around to it.
As far as their other stuff is concerned I really haven't haven't bought much from them. Just too lazy to trek all of the way to N. Raleigh I guess.
DaveO just got a new lathe from there and has already started cranking out some nice stuff. (I think that he upgraded the chuck, though.)
I don't think that I would jump for any other of their stationary tools though.
The place is definitely worth a visit though.
Wayne
I picked up their "2HP Dust Collector" last spring. This one.........
Harbor Freight Tools - Quality Tools at the Lowest Prices
It went together pretty easily and has performed well for the price. I paid $119 with coupons and a sale. I keep telling myself that I need to upgrade the bags to at least 1 micron. Just haven't gotten around to it.
As far as their other stuff is concerned I really haven't haven't bought much from them. Just too lazy to trek all of the way to N. Raleigh I guess.
DaveO just got a new lathe from there and has already started cranking out some nice stuff. (I think that he upgraded the chuck, though.)
I don't think that I would jump for any other of their stationary tools though.
The place is definitely worth a visit though.
Wayne
i agree w/michael you get what you pay for, but sometimes that's all you can afford. i have several items from them and while functional most aren't great and if I had it to do over again i'd likely hold off until i could afford higher quality equipment.
For me it comes down to a few simple factors:
Degree of precision required. How hard is it for them to screw up the manufacture of a given tool? Would I buy a miter saw there for $99 and expect it to cut perfect 45° cuts every time right out of the box? No.
An angle grinder for $15? You betcha. It came with extra brushes too...that's faith in your equipment right there! :lol: Something like a sander, dust collector or hammer...yeah...I'll go there if it's a sale.
Amount of expected use. If I was a metal smith or welder, I'd buy a high-end (expensive) angle grinder if I were going to spend 4 hours a day using it. For the 20 minutes a year that I use mine, it wasn't worth me burning out another DeWalt.
Just understand that you're getting what you pay for. You just need to decide up front if you can live with imperfect results from a given item to the point that it justifies the low price.
And before anyone posts to crucify me for my statements above, I realize (as stated in another thread today) that there are some "diamonds in the rough" there. But you're taking your chances....
Degree of precision required. How hard is it for them to screw up the manufacture of a given tool? Would I buy a miter saw there for $99 and expect it to cut perfect 45° cuts every time right out of the box? No.
An angle grinder for $15? You betcha. It came with extra brushes too...that's faith in your equipment right there! :lol: Something like a sander, dust collector or hammer...yeah...I'll go there if it's a sale.
Amount of expected use. If I was a metal smith or welder, I'd buy a high-end (expensive) angle grinder if I were going to spend 4 hours a day using it. For the 20 minutes a year that I use mine, it wasn't worth me burning out another DeWalt.
Just understand that you're getting what you pay for. You just need to decide up front if you can live with imperfect results from a given item to the point that it justifies the low price.
And before anyone posts to crucify me for my statements above, I realize (as stated in another thread today) that there are some "diamonds in the rough" there. But you're taking your chances....
I have several HF items, most of them work surprisingly well. However, I tend to limit HF tools/equipment/supplies that do NOT have an electric motor, are NOT intended for high precision, accuracy or heavy use.
A couple of items I am really pleased with: 5 ton hydraulic floor jack, 2 ton shop crane, 14" cut off wheel (both replacement wheels and saw), ratcheting clamps (just for holding things in place until 'real clamps' can be set), retracting electrical cord (12ga with SJ cord!!), anvil, vise.
Things to stay away from: All things high precision, screw drivers, drill bits, saw blades (not balanced).
I also have a set of there 3/4" drives (metric and SAE) for use on larger equipment. That was excellent quality for 39.95 a set!!
All in all it is hit and miss. Still, it is a fun store to visit...never know what you'll find.
Bernhard
A couple of items I am really pleased with: 5 ton hydraulic floor jack, 2 ton shop crane, 14" cut off wheel (both replacement wheels and saw), ratcheting clamps (just for holding things in place until 'real clamps' can be set), retracting electrical cord (12ga with SJ cord!!), anvil, vise.
Things to stay away from: All things high precision, screw drivers, drill bits, saw blades (not balanced).
I also have a set of there 3/4" drives (metric and SAE) for use on larger equipment. That was excellent quality for 39.95 a set!!
All in all it is hit and miss. Still, it is a fun store to visit...never know what you'll find.
Bernhard
I was given a HF 6" rabbeting Jointer (new in the box).
After assembling the unit and adjusting it for hours it is a reasonable machine.
It's not as plished as the Delta units, but it works.
I tend to check the setup each time I use it.
I also replaced the plastic parts with metal ones.
It is noisier than others.....
Ron
After assembling the unit and adjusting it for hours it is a reasonable machine.
It's not as plished as the Delta units, but it works.
I tend to check the setup each time I use it.
I also replaced the plastic parts with metal ones.
It is noisier than others.....
Ron
Mike,
I think you would be safe getting some stuff there. You have the right view for HF, you know your not getting top of the line, and you plan to upgrade in the future. Most of their tools are great to start out with, but don't expect to use them hard. Another place to check out is Homier Distributing Company, Inc. they have about the same quality if not a tad better than HF. I purchased a 80" edge sander from there. It works awesome, the only thing that was a problem was that the tables would not adjust square to the platen. So I made an auxiliary table that I can adjust off of the stock table and all is good. It looks exactly like the grizzly 80" edge sander except for the finish of the machine. Just do some research and surf the web for people that have already purchased the thing your looking at for reviews. Hope this helps friend.
I think you would be safe getting some stuff there. You have the right view for HF, you know your not getting top of the line, and you plan to upgrade in the future. Most of their tools are great to start out with, but don't expect to use them hard. Another place to check out is Homier Distributing Company, Inc. they have about the same quality if not a tad better than HF. I purchased a 80" edge sander from there. It works awesome, the only thing that was a problem was that the tables would not adjust square to the platen. So I made an auxiliary table that I can adjust off of the stock table and all is good. It looks exactly like the grizzly 80" edge sander except for the finish of the machine. Just do some research and surf the web for people that have already purchased the thing your looking at for reviews. Hope this helps friend.
<---- cheap woodworker :lol:
Of all the HF items I've bought, I have yet to have a failure.
Of all the HF items I've bought, I have yet to have a failure.
I don't know that I can add a whole lot to what has already been said, but -- I use the philosophy of how often, how much and how hard will I use the item. I have a lot of their 3/4" pipe clamps, a super deal. I have their 21 gal, 3HP air compressor and hose reel and hose. I don't, at this point, use a lot of air tools or big paint sprayers, it works well for me. i have their three outlet retractable electric cord and it hasn't burned out yet. I too, have the 34706 lathe and for my limited use it works well, I will upgrade someday when I start turning big bowls etc (if that day ever comes). My brother built his own log house from trees on his mountain. He used a lot of HF hand tools which he considered disposable, such as big wood chisels. He would pound the heck out of them and then throw them away and buy more. When I bought my first trim router, I thought that I wouldn't use it much, just a little edge treatment for which I would keep the bit in so it was always ready to go. I find that I am using it more now and will be upgrading. The only real problem I had with it was the base was kinda' convex. I sanded it down flat on a belt sander. I can't see through the base now (except through the bit hole) but it is still working.
All said, determine how often how much and how hard you will use the item. The more often, the higher use frequency, the harder I would push it, I would buy a "brand" name such as Delta, DeWalt, Jet, Powermatic, etc. But, even then you have to watch what you get. None of the "majors" make all good tools. they all have their share of 'lemons'. I wouldn't use a HF table saw, I wouldn't use a HF router in my router table.
George
All said, determine how often how much and how hard you will use the item. The more often, the higher use frequency, the harder I would push it, I would buy a "brand" name such as Delta, DeWalt, Jet, Powermatic, etc. But, even then you have to watch what you get. None of the "majors" make all good tools. they all have their share of 'lemons'. I wouldn't use a HF table saw, I wouldn't use a HF router in my router table.
George
I did, and I find it to be a fine machine. Looks like a Jet but with different colors. It didn't come with a chuck, most lathes don't but it did come with enough stuff to start turning right away. I am still using their turning chisel set. I also have an angle grinder, and pin nailer, I have used them quite a bit and for what I paid for them if they up and die, they don't own me anything. A lot of their pwer tools are built well but not out of the lightest materials. A HF CMS works just fine but you wouldn't want to lug it to a job site, likewise with things like power drills and other handheld power tools. I think that you can find tools that will work at HF, but you have to do your research into what you are buying and identify what you expect it to do for you. The tools don't make a woodworker, the woodworkers hands do.
Dave
Well, I'll toss in a few more tidbits on HF.
First, it's a fun place to visit, though the Raleigh store is poorly managed. It's cluttered, disorganized, items lack price tags, and service doesn't exist. The store in Wilmington is exactly the opposite. Guess they are like any franchise :roll:
Second, you can sign up online or in the store for regular (read almost daily) flyers and email discount for 10-20% off (no exclusions).
Additional products that I or other members have noted for value include: Cen-Tech digital caliphers, dial indicators, etc., moisture meter, nitrile gloves, Pittsburgh and Pony clamps, and some of their work stands. I also have a pancake air compressor, pin nailer, and angle grinder. Their extremely low price and usage negates any worries about longevity.
If you ever want a coupon, just post. Myself or another member almost always has a spare to share. Currently I have one 15% coupon from flyer and one from email flyer.
Roger
First, it's a fun place to visit, though the Raleigh store is poorly managed. It's cluttered, disorganized, items lack price tags, and service doesn't exist. The store in Wilmington is exactly the opposite. Guess they are like any franchise :roll:
Second, you can sign up online or in the store for regular (read almost daily) flyers and email discount for 10-20% off (no exclusions).
Additional products that I or other members have noted for value include: Cen-Tech digital caliphers, dial indicators, etc., moisture meter, nitrile gloves, Pittsburgh and Pony clamps, and some of their work stands. I also have a pancake air compressor, pin nailer, and angle grinder. Their extremely low price and usage negates any worries about longevity.
If you ever want a coupon, just post. Myself or another member almost always has a spare to share. Currently I have one 15% coupon from flyer and one from email flyer.
Roger
I've had a couple of great experiences with HF stuff:
1. I needed a 17-mm starter wrench to replace the starter on my car and could not find one anywhere. Snap-on listed one for $55, but the were out of stock. At HF, I found a set with multiple sizes for $6 and got the job done. My point is they also carry stuff you can not find anywhere else.
2. I found a box of 24" iron ceiling fan extensions at the Habitat Reuse center, with the proper threads and coated with a very sturdy vergens paint (supposed to look like aged copper). I bought 8 for 50 cents each and got pony 3/4" pipe clamp fittings at HF for $4+(on sale). I ended up with 8 24" pipe clamps for $40 - like others have said, you can find bargains. As a bonus, glue does not seem to stick to the pipes and I never get black stains on my work.
In the past, I've seen Dewalt factory rebuilt tools there as well, but I don't know if they still offer these. They were around 20% less than new tools.
1. I needed a 17-mm starter wrench to replace the starter on my car and could not find one anywhere. Snap-on listed one for $55, but the were out of stock. At HF, I found a set with multiple sizes for $6 and got the job done. My point is they also carry stuff you can not find anywhere else.
2. I found a box of 24" iron ceiling fan extensions at the Habitat Reuse center, with the proper threads and coated with a very sturdy vergens paint (supposed to look like aged copper). I bought 8 for 50 cents each and got pony 3/4" pipe clamp fittings at HF for $4+(on sale). I ended up with 8 24" pipe clamps for $40 - like others have said, you can find bargains. As a bonus, glue does not seem to stick to the pipes and I never get black stains on my work.
In the past, I've seen Dewalt factory rebuilt tools there as well, but I don't know if they still offer these. They were around 20% less than new tools.
J
jeff...
User not found
Save your receipts and boxes so you can exchange an item when it breaks :cry:
Have 4.5" angle grinder and heat gun that I've used mostly for golf club assembly, works good...have a few hand tools and wrenches/sockets, they too are OK: in fact, one adjustable wrench is in my work tool bag and is the tool I usually grab first to loosen/tighten nuts & bolts...as has been said, caveat emptor8-O and go find the good ones!
I haven't bought much from HF in my time, but, like you, I have a very limited budget for tools. On the tools I use the most, I bit the bullet and bought the good stuff. Case in point, I was given a Craftsman 7-1/4" circular saw for Christmas one year. It worked fine, but when I started to build bunk beds for my boys (before I purchased a lot of my other tools), I noticed it wasn't cutting square. No amount of adjustment would work and even after sending it off for repairs through Sears, it still wasn't square. I immediately went out and bought a Porter Cable saw and have used it ever since with NO problems.
Same with my miter saw. I had used some cheap ones, but bought a DeWalt when it became obvious I was going to use it a lot. For some things, like those I would not use for precision or heavy use duties, I would and DO buy cheaper stuff. I rarely use a brad nailer, so I bought an off-brand and have had no problems at all. Others, like my cordless drill, I spend the bucks and get the good stuff.
One option you may want to consider is looking at pawn shops and flea markets. Pawn shops often have guys in the construction business who sell their tools when money is tight and I have found some in pretty good shape for a good price. There is one off of I-40 in Greensboro (Death Valley area) before the 40/85 split that has a ton of tools. You may want to look there. Of course, you never know what abuse it has been subject to, but with the name brand tools, most can take more abuse anyway.
Just a thought. Good luck to you on your searches!
Same with my miter saw. I had used some cheap ones, but bought a DeWalt when it became obvious I was going to use it a lot. For some things, like those I would not use for precision or heavy use duties, I would and DO buy cheaper stuff. I rarely use a brad nailer, so I bought an off-brand and have had no problems at all. Others, like my cordless drill, I spend the bucks and get the good stuff.
One option you may want to consider is looking at pawn shops and flea markets. Pawn shops often have guys in the construction business who sell their tools when money is tight and I have found some in pretty good shape for a good price. There is one off of I-40 in Greensboro (Death Valley area) before the 40/85 split that has a ton of tools. You may want to look there. Of course, you never know what abuse it has been subject to, but with the name brand tools, most can take more abuse anyway.
Just a thought. Good luck to you on your searches!
Mike,
Every clamp I own ( and I have quite a collection ) came from HF. They include C-Clamps, F-style clamps, and pipe clamps. You just have to be patient and picky about the ones you purchase. My floor style drill press also came from HF and works more than adequately. The only issue I ever had with it was the factory table not being square (front to back) to the quill. I easily remedied this when I added the auxillary (woodworking friendly) table. I also own a brad nailer and small compressor from HF that are still going strong after 3.5 years of constant use. Hope this helps........
Every clamp I own ( and I have quite a collection ) came from HF. They include C-Clamps, F-style clamps, and pipe clamps. You just have to be patient and picky about the ones you purchase. My floor style drill press also came from HF and works more than adequately. The only issue I ever had with it was the factory table not being square (front to back) to the quill. I easily remedied this when I added the auxillary (woodworking friendly) table. I also own a brad nailer and small compressor from HF that are still going strong after 3.5 years of constant use. Hope this helps........
- Status
Similar threads
Premier Sponsors
Contact for your financial processing needs!
Our Sponsors
LATEST FOR SALE LISTINGS
-
-
-
For Sale BESSEY, Universal, Tekton Wide variety of Clamps
- Started by Kirsti K
- Replies: 4
-
For Sale Veritas Guides and Gauges - In Box Never Used
- Started by Kirsti K
- Replies: 0
-
