Harbor Freight Parking Lot Sale including 40% off ALL sockets

[M635_Guy]

FWIW - I have a lot of socket sets, at least in 3/8" - SK, Snap On, Tekton and Icon are the sets I'm mainly using and they are used pretty consistently. Similar to Snap On, the Icon 3/8" set gets progressively shallower vs. Tekon, which can come in really handy (1/4" sockets are pretty standard unless you get something like the Ko-ken Z-series or the Power Torque stuff I linked above).

I've beat on my sockets a lot, and even the Tekton (which seem to be the most "retail" of them all) have done just fine, other than being on the longer side for 3/8".

 

[M635_Guy]

I had no idea that that many peeps used the original meme tool bit ratchet as a tee handle and would be that upset about the new set. I'm good on dual drive sockets between Astro's nano and a VIM set I picked up on ebay before they were a thing. Thanks though

The T-handle was an unexpected game changer for me - I've found it weirdly handy. More importantly, the ability to bring the extension through the head has been all kinds of awesome in some tight spots. The new kit is a 1/4"-based kit. I have plenty of good/shallow 1/4" solutions. The original tool made hex bits a highly-useful part of my arsenal than they'd ever been (lots of torx/hex bits have been used w/ that kit). The ability to put the extension at the base of the handle for a long flex-head bit ratchet has also been great (most notably the only way me and a buddy could get to a belt tensioner when stuck 100 miles from home one night coming back from a car show).

At some point I picked up the VIM version, which has a longer handle than the Icon model. I use it, but it's not a game-changer.

 

[DAWrench]

had no idea that that many peeps used the original meme tool bit ratchet as a tee handle and would be that upset about the new set

Funny that so many people feel that way about it. A tool truck couldn't hardly give away an actual 1/4" drive tee handle if they even had one on the truck. I kinda like the pass thru feature of the original set but never have used it as a tee handle. I just think the new version needing the adapter to use the bits makes it way less handy

 

[mrjaw14]

Check availability on line, ahead of time?

Not perfect, but if it states they are out of something they are likely out. If it says "stock limited" I'll call the store directly and have them physically confirm stock availability.

Seems to work for me.

You can get someone to answer the phone there? Fancy!

 

[zendriver]

You can get someone to answer the phone there? Fancy!

Our store is only a few years old, always seem to have good management and friendly helpful associates.

I don't call every week, bit don't remember call any store and someone didn't answer eventually.

 

[tak1313]

The T-handle was an unexpected game changer for me - I've found it weirdly handy. More importantly, the ability to bring the extension through the head has been all kinds of awesome in some tight spots. The new kit is a 1/4"-based kit. I have plenty of good/shallow 1/4" solutions. The original tool made hex bits a highly-useful part of my arsenal than they'd ever been (lots of torx/hex bits have been used w/ that kit). The ability to put the extension at the base of the handle for a long flex-head bit ratchet has also been great (most notably the only way me and a buddy could get to a belt tensioner when stuck 100 miles from home one night coming back from a car show).

At some point I picked up the VIM version, which has a longer handle than the Icon model. I use it, but it's not a game-changer.

Has anyone tried this one?

https://a.co/d/feXmmiT

 

[ecotec]

40% off junk is still junk.

I still have a few Pittsburgh Pro impact sockets in my main metric drawer and my cart.

Do I try to replace/displace them with fancy brands from garage and estate sales? Of course I do.

Of the ones that haven’t been replaced yet… they are still going after more than 20 years.

 

[M635_Guy]

Has anyone tried this one?

https://a.co/d/feXmmiT

I'm never clicking on a link I can't see in the clear...

 

[tak1313]

I'm never clicking on a link I can't see in the clear...

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QC5RKQG?ref=cm_sw_r_cso_em_apan_dp_GA7G2PJX7NKZJG1C8P9E&ref_=cm_sw_r_cso_em_apan_dp_GA7G2PJX7NKZJG1C8P9E&social_share=cm_sw_r_cso_em_apan_dp_GA7G2PJX7NKZJG1C8P9E&csmig=1

https://www.amazon.com/BOXO-Piece-Driver-T-Handle-Socket/dp/B09QC5RKQG

edit - no matter what format i plug in, it just posts the url.

 

[Steve_P]

If I check HF online and it says "limited stock", this translates to zero in stock for my store. Every. Single. Time. I gave up long ago.

Like others, I don't really need a lot of stuff from HF at this point, so it's typically not worth it for me to make a special trip unless it's a smoking deal; it's not worth it for a special trip to save even $10. I did take advantage of the last sale on the Icon torque wrench when it was 40%? off, because that's something that I wanted. And they actually had plenty of them in stock. I used to always buy nitrile gloves at HF, but they've raised their prices so much that it's 20% cheaper to buy gloves on Amazon at regular prices, and they're shipped free to my door.

I guess I'm just waiting on the next Icon copy of a Snap On plier

 

[wantedabiggergarage]

The T-handle was an unexpected game changer for me - I've found it weirdly handy. More importantly, the ability to bring the extension through the head has been all kinds of awesome in some tight spots. The new kit is a 1/4"-based kit. I have plenty of good/shallow 1/4" solutions. The original tool made hex bits a highly-useful part of my arsenal than they'd ever been (lots of torx/hex bits have been used w/ that kit). The ability to put the extension at the base of the handle for a long flex-head bit ratchet has also been great (most notably the only way me and a buddy could get to a belt tensioner when stuck 100 miles from home one night coming back from a car show).

At some point I picked up the VIM version, which has a longer handle than the Icon model. I use it, but it's not a game-changer.

When seeing people working on race car engines using a T handle, I realized how handy they could be. Now I never had a 1/4" one, but a late neighbor, who was a WWII pilot, had one that he would use on screws and small bolts, again, in part because of arthritis.

So I would actually like one, but it is low enough on the list, that is a garage sale search item.

 

[M635_Guy]

When seeing people working on race car engines using a T handle, I realized how handy they could be. Now I never had a 1/4" one, but a late neighbor, who was a WWII pilot, had one that he would use on screws and small bolts, again, in part because of arthritis.

So I would actually like one, but it is low enough on the list, that is a garage sale search item.

With the original Icon flex-head hex kit, the extension can be used to make a T-handle. Handy.

 

[Notgrownup]

Hell yeah I’ll be there. HF for the win.. lol

 

[SouthernIllinois]

75-85% of my sockets are Snap-On, the remainder are Icon with a few US made SK and Craftsman mixed in.

I have no problem with Icon sockets or some of the Harbor Freight stuff.

You do have to wade thru their sales but every now and then, they do have some good deals.

Being retired, I don’t mind being there a few minutes before they open if it’s something I really want.

Last week I got a green 3 Ton Daytona jack for $99. Last year I picked up these 3/8 and 1/2 Icon impact sockets and 1/2” torque wrench for 40% off.

I do buy off the Snap On truck a couple times a month but I’m not such tool snob I’m gonna turn down a good deal when one presents itself.

 

[Nick Rivers]

Don't wait for the sale. Go get what you want and pay full price before things fly off the shelf.

Then go in August 15, or August 16th with your receipt and they will honor the sale price and refund you the difference. I posted this when they had the ICON wrenches discounted. Two different HF stores and two different store managers told me this. One showed me how it is input to the registers.

 

[AJHD]

Don't wait for the sale. Go get what you want and pay full price before things fly off the shelf.

Then go in August 15, or August 16th with your receipt and they will honor the sale price and refund you the difference. I posted this when they had the ICON wrenches discounted. Two different HF stores and two different store managers told me this. One showed me how it is input to the registers.

I've never done that. While I'm sure some people have been successful, I would advise against getting your hopes up that would work. Like many other things I think it comes down to whoever the cashier or manager is at the time at your store.

I will have to ask about that next time I'm there. It seems like a bad business decision to refund money for items purchased prior to a sale. It seems to defeat the entire purpose of not only sales, but especially ITC sales with early access.

 

[Nick Rivers]

I've never done that. While I'm sure some people have been successful, I would advise against getting your hopes up that would work. Like many other things I think it comes down to whoever the cashier or manager is at the time at your store.

I will have to ask about that next time I'm there. It seems like a bad business decision to refund money for items purchased prior to a sale. It seems to defeat the entire purpose of not only sales, but especially ITC sales with early access.

They still get your money that you otherwise would not have spent. The sale promo and ITC Early Access are marketing techniques (as Captain Obvious would say).

• Harbor Freight does honor price adjustments within 30 days of purchase if the item goes on sale or a coupon becomes available.
• You’ll need to bring your receipt and the coupon or proof of sale price to the store.
• The adjustment applies only to the same item you purchased.

 

[Houdini5150]

Eh i am good. I am stocked up on the tools I have use for unless I start looking for some more zip ties or gloves... I have a coupon that they emailed me since I have not bought anything in maybe a yeah now since I have gotten everything I need with what I got around the house etc etc

 

[zendriver]

It seems to defeat the entire purpose of not only sales, but especially ITC sales with early access.

They might have figured most people will probably just forget about it.

I probably would, unless the savings was substantial.

Like others have stated they made a sale.

 

[dscheidt]

They might have figured most people will probably just forget about it.

I probably would, unless the savings was substantial.

Like others have stated they made a sale.

If they didn't adjust the price, people would return stuff and buy it again. Dealing with the return and restocking probably costs more than the sale on a lot of stuff. Also, if you come back, you're probably going to spend more money.

 

[Hakeem]

Don't wait for the sale. Go get what you want and pay full price before things fly off the shelf.

Then go in August 15, or August 16th with your receipt and they will honor the sale price and refund you the difference. I posted this when they had the ICON wrenches discounted. Two different HF stores and two different store managers told me this. One showed me how it is input to the registers.

I’ve done this a lot, with success, but they made a change in their policy a few months back to where coupons were no longer available for use on previously purchased items. The policy prior to the change did allow for price adjustments up to 30 days.

Will Harbor Freight Honor Coupons After Purchase?

Harbor Freight Tools offers numerous coupons that can save you up to 80% on the original cost of an item. Things to Know: Coupons cannot be combined with any other offers or coupons All coupons mus…

go.harborfreight.com

Granted, it’s ultimately up to the manager and I’ve never encountered any issues but something to be aware of.

 

[WWheeler]

Harbor Freight fairly recently rescinded their policy to allow a current coupon/discount/sale to apply to a recently purchased item. They used to, but none of them near me will even consider it any more.

 

[zendriver]

If they didn't adjust the price, people would return stuff and buy it again. Dealing with the return and restocking probably costs more than the sale on a lot of stuff. Also, if you come back, you're probably going to spend more money.

Doesn't really matter anyway.

Most people probably don't buy anything there, unless it's already discounted.

I usually don't.

 

[merkyworks]

Don't wait for the sale. Go get what you want and pay full price before things fly off the shelf.

Then go in August 15, or August 16th with your receipt and they will honor the sale price and refund you the difference. I posted this when they had the ICON wrenches discounted. Two different HF stores and two different store managers told me this. One showed me how it is input to the registers.

Brilliant idea sir.

 

[Higgins]

Here’s my opinion: The Icon sockets and wrenches seem to be pretty legit in the tests we’ve all seen. But for a Taiwan tool, they aren’t super cheap. I don’t have the numbers at my finger tips, but I recall thinking Williams USA was within spitting distance.

But at 40% off, some of our newer/younger members should look long and hard at the sets they don’t currently have, like semi deeps etc. Not sure what the discount will be on the long DBE “aircraft style” wrenches, but I think they are nice to use and I think Icon wrenches did okay in the tests.

As I’ve said many times there needs to be a sticky for BASIC automotive tools, then a few additional revisions for intermediate and advanced tools.

I would compare what is in my box with those lists and see if there are deals for stuff actually needed. I think semi deep sockets would be on my intermediate tool list in 1/4” and 3/8” drive. They are really my gotos and I’d almost argue for starting with them.

Can I suggest: let’s turn this thread into something offering practical advice to our members and lurkers and leave the geopolitics etc out of it.

For example: of the items on sale, what do you think are the best values for real shop necessities?

I suggested a few things above. Let me add: a second floor jack, more or upgraded (taller) jack stands.

Over the yrs I needed a tool for a single use project. Tool was available rental, and wasn’t going to pay $$$ for a new tool so I purchased HF.
Well the tool worked great and are still around and working !!!

 

[CHI_Tool&Die]

Time to grab me a jack before they get even more expensive.

 

[Bagherra]

Time to grab me a jack before they get even more expensive.

Same here...

 

[cablebandit]

Yeah, the newer coupons generally say not valid on prior purchases. I bought a generator and got a coupon the next day for 20% off all generators. I contacted customer service since the verbiage on their website wasn't clear at the time, but I got no price adjustment. They did, however, give me a free 1 year to ITC.

 

[Nick Rivers]

Coupons are one thing. This parking lot sale is on a Flyer. The Flyer shows no restrictions on the 40% discount on ALL Socket Sets.

Spoke with the HF manager yesterday before I picked up several sets of Quinn sockets and asked about getting the discount credited if I purchased before the Parking Lot Sale dates. He said no problem, just bring in the receipt after August 15th. As long as you are in the purchase date window by 30 days.

The last sale, I bought two sets of the ICON ratcheting double box wrenches before the Parking Lot Sale date at full retail price and received the discount refund when I came in after the sale started with my receipt.

 

[Steel_Rain]

The Flyer shows no restrictions on the 40% discount on ALL Socket Sets.

When I click on the "40 % all socket sets" on this link:

This Publication is offline

flyer.harborfreight.com

The Icon "modular" socket sets do not appear on the 4 pages of sale items:



I asked the Store Manager yesterday if these would be included. He went over to his workstation and came back after a few minutes saying they were NOT part of the sale. I guess since it includes extensions and a ratchet, it's outside the scope of the "socket" sale, despite having that in the advertised title of the product.

Caveat Emptor.

 

[rpcraft]

I'm holding out for the 95% off Snap-on side-walk sale.

Probably still make it a 500 dollar set of wrenches or whatever.

 

[zendriver]

When I click on the "40 % all socket sets" on this link:

This Publication is offline

flyer.harborfreight.com

The Icon "modular" socket sets do not appear on the 4 pages of sale items:



I asked the Store Manager yesterday if these would be included. He went over to his workstation and came back after a few minutes saying they were NOT part of the sale. I guess since it includes extensions and a ratchet, it's outside the scope of the "socket" sale, despite having that in the advertised title of the product.

Caveat Emptor.

The image of the 40% on sockets shows a ratchet and extensions.

 

[Cheesy1]

The flyer initially said “All Sockets”. It was changed this week online to say “All Socket Sets”.

I don’t know exactly what that means, but for sure was changed this week.

Original vs revised

 

[zendriver]

The flyer initially said “All Sockets”. It was changed this week online to say “All Socket Sets”.

I don’t know exactly what that means, but for sure was changed this week.

Original vs revised

That now sets are included in the 40% off?

 

[Steel_Rain]

That now sets are included in the 40% off?

Ok...now when you click on the link on the HF website, these kits are now included in the 40% off sale:



So meme tool 2.0 is now like $50ish.

 

[KnurledNut]

Be a good time to grab to Quinn nanos...

 

[zendriver]

Ok...now when you click on the link on the HF website, these kits are now included in the 40% off sale:



So meme tool 2.0 is now like $50ish.

Main reason I mentioned it, was another poster asked a store Manager about ratchet/socket sets, who "checked" and said no go. Maybe there was some Corporate decision making still in progress, which would not be surprising.

Maybe this is their chance to dump a whole bunch of product, before the import "you know whats" take full effect.

This sale in light of things is making me reassess my "tool buying strategy"

 

[seber]

I'm never clicking on a link I can't see in the clear...

If you hover over the link, you can see the entire link at the lower left of your screen.

 

[M635_Guy]

If you hover over the link, you can see the entire link at the lower left of your screen.

Still a URL shortener. Not something I do - too many security risks...

 

[Ohio Andy]

I'm never clicking on a link I can't see in the clear..

That is exactly the link that Amazon provides