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Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

kctyphoon

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Read em and weep -


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WWheeler

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Wow.

I've seen HF's claims, but I didn't expect it to live up to them.
 

Tim37

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Cool video, I but how will the HF impact hold up over time? For sure would make a great impact for home use, but how would it hold up in a shop?
 

WWheeler

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Cool video, I but how will the HF impact hold up over time? For sure would make a great impact for home use, but how would it hold up in a shop?

And that is the $500 question.

Will four of the Harbor Freight Earthquake XTs outlast one Snap-on MG725?
 

dsimatt

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

And that is the $500 question.

Will four of the Harbor Freight Earthquake XTs outlast one Snap-on MG725?

Or just buy the IR online for about the middle price on the 2 guns and have a hell of a impact and don't care what the fan boys or haters will cry about in this thread.
 

fringeofinsanity

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Or just buy the IR online for about the middle price on the 2 guns and have a hell of a impact and don't care what the fan boys or haters will cry about in this thread.

Yup!
 

KMdef9

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Or just buy the IR online for about the middle price on the 2 guns and have a hell of a impact and don't care what the fan boys or haters will cry about in this thread.

I'll third that.




Also, I'd bet 4 of them out last 1 snap on in a shop.
 

MrGiggles

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

And that is the $500 question.

Will four of the Harbor Freight Earthquake XTs outlast one Snap-on MG725?

From what I've seen, absolutely. The MG is not known for long term reliability with daily use. Then again, we don't know if the HF is either.
 

92integra

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Checked in on his other reviews and it appears the it 2235 is the most powerful gun, now it didn't beat the nitro cat it was up against but it was a 2235 with the 3inch extended anvil. If he would do of the regular 2235 I'm almost certain it would beat the nitrocat, both of those guns hit harder than the HF and SO Guns.

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Skin

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Surprised im the first to say this but the MG725 did have its muffler installed which will dump power down 5-10%. Personally i'd never use an MG without its muffler since its literally an eardrum destroyer but unlike the HF impact it is optional and if it was power vs power should of been removed for a second set of numbers.

MG725 is also going into its 8th year and is overdue for a revision.
 
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md21722

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Lost of trash talk about Snap On MG725. My pro mechanic buddy used one for years without any problems. Will all make it forever, no, will many last a reasonable amount of time, probably. IR 2235 is a nice looking gun, but personally one reason I went with the Snappy's was ergonomics. Half the time I forget to switch between forward and reverse, and with the Snapy I can do that with the push of a finger, smilar to the Earthquake QT..
 

B_Bimmer

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Or just buy the IR online for about the middle price on the 2 guns and have a hell of a impact and don't care what the fan boys or haters will cry about in this thread.

4th.
 
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kctyphoon

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Just in case people didn't watch the entire vid - the point was made that the SO comes with a 2yr warranty, and a 2 yr warranty is available for purchase at checkout with the HF.. So it's kind of a wash in that regards too.

Also with coupon that HF model is about $96 before tax right now.
 
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Skin

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Not entirely, HF will just do an over the counter exchange and send your original impact to the landfill so the only down time is the drive. Snap-On will want your impact mailed in for repair which is about 2 weeks turn-around.
 
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minytrker

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

My friend has a shop and has all HF tools, I laughed at him years ago saying they would never last. I have broke more snap on tools than he has harbor frieght and he does way more work than I do.
 

WWheeler

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Just in case people didn't watch the entire vid - the point was made that the SO comes with a 2yr warranty, and a 2 yr warranty is available for purchase at checkout with the HF.. So it's kind of a wash in that regards too.

Also with coupon that HF model is about $96 before tax right now.

What coupon is that? I want it!

I see the Earthquake XT is only $119 right now on sale which is $10 less than the lowest coupon price I can recall seeing it for.

I also looked through my email and didn't see any current 20% off coupons - the most recent I received expired a few days ago - but in any case I've never seen them apply to the Earthquake brand items. They are always exempt in the fine print.

fctxxx.jpg
 

Duster346

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Surprised im the first to say this but the MG725 did have its muffler installed which will dump power down 5-10%. Personally i'd never use an MG without its muffler since its literally an eardrum destroyer but unlike the HF impact it is optional and if it was power vs power should of been removed for a second set of numbers.

MG725 is also going into its 8th year and is overdue for a revision.
The earthquake xt guns also come with a muffler installed. At least my 3/4" gun did.
 

pgilmore7

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

c3af6f085f2e6d3b6da6071dd772bc8c.jpg I've been using my MG725 for chassis work on heavy trucks for years now and it never missed a beat. There are guys in the shop who have Aircats and IR guns who ask to use my gun to get stubborn bolts and nuts off. I don't think the Harbor Flea market hotdog gun will last in the pro world, I've tried the cheaper guns and they just don't hold up.


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GeorgeFromPa

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

4 snap on 1/2 inch guns and 3 3/4 inch guns at our shop.. one is out for repairs every week.... in all fairness we beat the hell out of them. we do truck frames and springs. after christmas im going to buy one of them HF earthquakes and see if i can get a month out of it. I like the idea that i can run to harbor freight and get a new one and not wait 2 or 3 weeks for the snapon guy to bring the repair guns back
 
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gdocktor3

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

I was one of the viewers who requested this face off, so thank you Real Tool Review. I'm not a mechanic by trade, but even I was never impressed with my mg725. After seeing this, it makes you wonder why even bother buying from Snap On? As disappointing as this is, you can't deny the results. On top of that, users regularly complain about their mg725 breaking after short periods of use, then complain about the down time and repair process. It is nice that the Snap On man comes to your shop, but does that really justify the price difference? I've heard more positive stories on the power and longevity of the Earthquake line of impacts than I would have ever expected. It is very impressive to say the least when you take everything into consideration.
 
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pgilmore7

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

I see your point, I have never had down time with my MG725 and I've been using it for four years now. I should though, be less critical of the HF gun if I have never used it. It's just my past experience that the cheaper guns are good for changing lawnmower blades and tire rotations on golf carts. Maybe their catching up with the big guys who knows. I have to admit I have heard others say the same thing about the SO guns and down time, guess I've been lucky.


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HomeTheaterMan

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

I'm not a fan of any of the Snap On air impacts I've used, however I also have a hard time getting in board with a HF gun. I've been disappointed in almost everything I've bought from Harbor Frieght with the exception of wheel weights and zip ties. I really hope this gun is great, but for now I will stick with my old tried and proven IR 2135. It's my favorite impact gun that I've laid my hands on by far.
 

HomeTheaterMan

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

c3af6f085f2e6d3b6da6071dd772bc8c.jpg I've been using my MG725 for chassis work on heavy trucks for years now and it never missed a beat. There are guys in the shop who have Aircats and IR guns who ask to use my gun to get stubborn bolts and nuts off. I don't think the Harbor Flea market hotdog gun will last in the pro world, I've tried the cheaper guns and they just don't hold up.


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I'm not sure which IR guns they had, but unless it's their cheapest model, I'm doubting these claims. When I worked at a shop several years ago the owner turned us on to the IR 2135. We also had the SO which didn't have nearly as much power.

When I did my transmission last year a buddy came over to help and brought the SO. He kept telling me how much better it was than the IR. Well, when we got to a seized bolt it couldn't remove it. I pulled my IR out to try and it zipped it right out. He was pretty impressed. He now tells everyone that the IR may be more powerful in real world applications, but he likes the service he gets from SO when his breaks. Lol.

I love almost everything that I've bought from Snap On, but other than their air hammer, their air tools seem to be a waste of money imo.
 

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Tim37

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Or just buy the IR online for about the middle price on the 2 guns and have a hell of a impact and don't care what the fan boys or haters will cry about in this thread.

Or do like I did and buy the snap on, on a half price deal :)
 

shawhite

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

It amuses me we are comparing a 7 or 8 year old design to a brand new HF gun. Lets compare the new HF gun to the new IR 2235 or the Nitrocat.
 

MN_Runner

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

It amuses me we are comparing a 7 or 8 year old design to a brand new HF gun. Lets compare the new HF gun to the new IR 2235 or the Nitrocat.

The point is that "Snap On MG725" is the benchmark, which HF is going after. I think it is a valid comparison. $500 vs. $100. Snap On needs to step up and prove why it is worth 5X more. As much as I love Snap On products, the pricing difference is just ridiculous.
 

gdocktor3

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

One could only assume Snap On has seen these advertisements from HF, possibly the video from RTR, and have something in the works. They are definitely over due for a new impact.
 

redwrench60

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

I'm not a fan of Snap On impacts, air or cordless. I've owned two MG725's and one MG 325. All were bulky, heavy, expensive, unreliable, underpowered and whoever designed that impossible power regulator knob is a dogs ***.

None of us really know how reliable and durable this new HF Earthquake impact will be. Maybe it will be a jewel in their lineup. Time will tell. Personally, I prefer to go with reasonably priced proven air impacts like an IR 2235timax for my daily use in a professional environment.
 

MrGiggles

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

c3af6f085f2e6d3b6da6071dd772bc8c.jpg I've been using my MG725 for chassis work on heavy trucks for years now and it never missed a beat. There are guys in the shop who have Aircats and IR guns who ask to use my gun to get stubborn bolts and nuts off. I don't think the Harbor Flea market hotdog gun will last in the pro world, I've tried the cheaper guns and they just don't hold up.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Not to dispute you, but I've seen that type of comment with every brand of impact on here.

It amuses me we are comparing a 7 or 8 year old design to a brand new HF gun. Lets compare the new HF gun to the new IR 2235 or the Nitrocat.

The videos are out there. He's already tested the IR and Nitrocat.
 

Fedwrench

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Will the quest for Snap on quality at Harbor Freight prices ever end? :lol:

Hey, buy what you like. I've never really cared for Snap on impacts but, that's just me. I really like IR impacts but, the 2235 although a beast, is a little on the heavy side. My favorite impact wrench for the last two years has been the PROTO 1/2 drive in full size and compact versions. They are similar to the current MAC versions but, not identical (trigger housing different). They're Taiwan made but have been a joy to use. The compact 1/2 drive version is lightweight but, is perfect for wheels off/wheels on and brake caliper crossover brackets. If I need more umph, I break out the full size model. I only paid $150 each for each PROTO impact but, you need to shop around.

In conclusion, any impact can work great new out of the box. What's important is how they keep on busting fasteners loose 3-4 years down the road. Of course, how well the operator cares for his impact wrench can affect this performance greatly over time. Good luck with your choices.:beer:
 

Buckgnarly

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Can you even get parts for HF air tools?.... seriously, never owned one.
 
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sberry

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Every part available all assembled in stock, 129$
 

racin72charger

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

The guy that works next to me has the Snap On and it's crazy loud, that alone would make not want to buy one.
 

WhiffySpark

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

I don't think the mg is loud compare to my IR. May just be me

I've had 2 sets of MGs. Currently have IR. Should have another mg next week
 

Wesley B

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Or just buy the IR online for about the middle price on the 2 guns and have a hell of a impact and don't care what the fan boys or haters will cry about in this thread.

x10. Ebay - $125 for my 2135TIMAX. My coworkers all have the 725 and the 2135 feels way better in the hand(mine atleast). I'm itching to try the 2235.
 

Loscaldazar

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

It amuses me we are comparing a 7 or 8 year old design to a brand new HF gun. Lets compare the new HF gun to the new IR 2235 or the Nitrocat.

Maybe Snap On should stop charging so much for it if its so out of date that a $100 impact can match it's performance.

If the earthquake XT is anything like the regular earthquake line that has been out for years, it'll last in a professional shop for years with no problems. The earthquakes have fantastic relabiltiy, but these new ones still have to prove themselves.

But anyway, I'd skip both the MG and the Earthquake and get a 2235. Paid $160 for mine new
 

stikman56

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Got a brand new MG725HV , with box,muffler, boot and manual, I'll sell for $349.00 shipped to the USA for the Snap-On lovers out there. Personally,I'll never own and use one. Never been impressed anything about them, except rotor output size and steel end plates in the motor.
 

oldtools

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

Isn't SO repair fee cost the same as a brand new HF XT impact gun. Isn't it better to run to the store and get a new impact gun instead of having to wait 2 or 3 weeks.
 

bmwpowere36m3

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Re: Snap On VS Harbor Freight Earthquake 1/2" pneumatic impacts- real test results..

I'm not necessarily surprised... but I'd like to see the test after some usage. Just like their Daytona Jack... if it turns out the SO has a poly u-cup on the main ram, then it has an advantage in the long-term. Short-term they [jacks] both will accomplish the same task. For those using chainsaws... I'm thinking full vs. semi-chisel chains ;)

We have a MG725 in the shop, there's things I don't like about it. However 6-7 yrs later it still removes stubborn fasteners on mostly passenger vehicles we work on. Next impact I'd like to try an IR or NitroCat...
 
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