Here we go!

[dfndr]

OK, I got my compressor for my home garage shop and HF emailed me today with specials. A 3/8 air ratchet and a 3/8 drill for $9.99 each. An air cutoff tool for $6.99. That's hard to not give them a try at those prices--Or are they dangerous to use or have some other very serious problem? Will they do for a home mechanic? I know there are some strong feelings about HF but these are legitimate questions. Thanks

[sk farmer]

imop, i rarely use an air ratchet and don't see a need for an air drill as i have cordless but a cutoff tool i use often. my most used air tools are 3/8, 1/2,3/4 impacts and die grinder or cutoff tool. a die grinder can do both jobs with a mandrel. my right angle die grinder and a prep disc are great for surface cleanup.

[Delray]

I have a cut off tool, a couple die grinders, a 3/4" impact and an angle drill from HF that are a few years old and have seen a lot of use with no problems. The cut off wheels and stones and such that come with them are not much but I am happy with the tools.

[ATTappman]

I tried the HF air ratchet. In my opinion it's not even worth $10. It's not able to loosen a nut torqued to 20 ftlbs. It's deafening, and pulls a high flow rate of air. I bought a $30 Campbell-Hausfeld that wasn't any better, and then a $90 Aircat that works just fine.

However, if I had it all to do over again, I'd have saved the money I spent on the compressor and air tools, and bought a Snap On cordless impact wrench. The only air tool I find useful is an impact wrench. The air ratchet is more trouble than it's worth. I bought the compressor thinking I'd be able to use the cheap HF air tools, but every one I bought was total crap and I returned them after one use.

[SpiderGearsMan]

I run the air ratchet a lot
but the 3/8 impact has always been better

[sasquach]

I have the 6.00 cut off tool . works great i am on my 2nd one the first one lasted like 10 years