The Harbor Freight PASS/FAIL Thread...

[mkirkpatrick]

more likely he got a good one! i did the same thing. My better version was at the shop and i needed to swap the g/fs brake rotors on her Honda so i picked that up. First hit it shattered the bit. Although if you picked up some stronger 5/16" drive bits it would probably work out okay.

Yeah that is what I thought, I picked up a cheap performance tools driver from O'Reily's after that happened, it worked and didn't break.

Then I found a Snappy driver handle at a garage sale for a buck. Needless to say I grabbed it. Paid the lady and ran (well really just walked real fast). My wife was wondering why I was so excited until I showed her the price of the driver on the SO website, then she under stood,

 

[djb2]

nice of the store I went to yesterday they gave me the upcoming sales for next month and the fall sale a few items I'm looking at which is 38391 which is the 12 volt jump start.. any good? I can't see how it can be 100% bad but are they sealed? battery non replaceable?

It's on my list to buy.

It has a standard 17Ah SLA (17 amp-hour seal lead acid) battery.
Small jump start boxes have batteries a third that size. The next step up is a 10Ah battery. A replacement 17Ah battery will cost you well over $50 at a battery store, so don't plan on anything but recycling the case when the battery dies.

Keep it charged by topping it off every three months and you can expect a 5-10 year life.

 

[Goobzilla]

Laser Guided Jigsaw (Item #92772)...PASS

Used it to notch a dozen sheets of 7/16 OSB I used for sheeting my pallet racking. I'm no carpenter, but it got the job done for me ($19.99 on sale)

Non Contact Laser Thermometer (Item #96451)...PASS

Used for a variety of projects around the house and shop, checking beer fridge temp, smoker temp, etc. Got for $24.99 on sale

 

[Tom2]

Thanks for the heads up on the air hammers. I see the two cheap versions, but theres also a $100 version. I wonder if it's really that much better?

 

[Indy_500]

Thanks for the heads up on the air hammers. I see the two cheap versions, but theres also a $100 version. I wonder if it's really that much better?

http://www.harborfreight.com/air-tools/hammers/super-duty-air-hammer-with-chisels-47868.html

at least get this one

 

[Homoudont]

Item # 93632

1/2" Heavy Duty Low Speed Drill

PASS


This drill is a major pass for its intended purpose which is to mix thinset for tiling. I purchased this drill because I was specifically mixing a special batch of thinset that had to be mixed at a lower speed (air bubbles). I've since used this to mix numerous batches of thinset and it make laying tile that much easier. I paid full price $59.99 and felt it was worth every penny. Of course it would be better to get 20% off but at the time I was on the job site and needed this drill. I tried to use my Milwaukee 1/2 drill and it would spin too fast and I really don't like using nice expensive drills to mix thinset.

Description below:


This workhorse has a three-position side handle and large D-handle for maximum control.

* Variable speed control from 0 to 550 RPM
* Double gear reduction motor for increased torque and enhanced performance
* Ball bearing spindle mount for smooth operation and long life
* Reversing switch and trigger lock

 

[subarub4]

It's on my list to buy.

It has a standard 17Ah SLA (17 amp-hour seal lead acid) battery.
Small jump start boxes have batteries a third that size. The next step up is a 10Ah battery. A replacement 17Ah battery will cost you well over $50 at a battery store, so don't plan on anything but recycling the case when the battery dies.

Keep it charged by topping it off every three months and you can expect a 5-10 year life.

yeah I was looking at ebay and they have the same case and all but I figure it's better to pick it up somewhat local to me..

Having said that so far pass on the 1/2" earthquake air ratchet but this thing is loud... in the video at

and my 1/2" impact in use (skip to 1:20)

 

[Indy_500]

Here She goes, Indy's big long list of HF pass/fail... I'll start with the fails

1/2" Pneumatic Impact Wrench - FAIL (starts blowing out air after a short short time)
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-2-half-inch-pneumatic-impact-wrench-95310.html

1/8" High Speed Steel Titanium Nitride Drill Bits, 10 Pack - FAIL (snap like a twig)
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-8-ei...itanium-nitride-drill-bits-10-pack-93079.html

1" to 2-1/2" Hole Saw Set - FAIL (teeth are duller than ****)
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-inch-to-2-1-2-half-inch-hole-saw-set-94023.html

14" alum. bolt cutters - FAIL (they no longer sell this item, it doesn't cut thin wire even)

16 Piece Wrench Rack - FAIL (wrenches dont fit at all, Pittsburgh or Craftsman)
http://www.harborfreight.com/16-piece-wrench-rack-36930.html

Snap Ring Pliers with Interchangeable Heads - EPIC FAIL (just a terrible snap ring pliers)
http://www.harborfreight.com/snap-ring-pliers-with-interchangeable-heads-3316.html

 

[SCscoutguy]

electric impact gun - FAIL couldn't even budge hand tightened lug nuts, going back to the store tomorrow

I have been using mine for years and it rocks. It will take off just about any nut I put it on. I even bought a second one a few months ago and it works just as well as the older one.

 

[Indy_500]

Next, we'll start doing some passes. I'll start with anything socket related...

1/4'', 3/8'' and 1/2'' Socket Rail Set - Pass (get the taiwan ones in the 3 pc. set, much better than the singular china ones) they work great for storing not often used sockets, i prefer my most used on trays.
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-4-qu...h-and-1-2-half-inch-socket-rail-set-1147.html

3 Piece SAE Socket Tray/Organizer - Pass - They hold sockets well for under $7 when caught on sale w/coupon
http://www.harborfreight.com/3-piece-sae-socket-tray-organizer-95595.html

3 Piece Metric Socket Tray/Organizer - Pass (but need to be relabeled) same as up avoe ^^^
http://www.harborfreight.com/3-piece-metric-socket-tray-organizer-95783.html

4 Piece Socket Adapter Set - Pass - I don't recommend them on an impact though lol
http://www.harborfreight.com/4-piece-socket-adapter-set-1793.html

9 Piece Star Bit Socket Set - 1/4" and 3/8" Square Drives - Pass - I've torqued things pretty high with these babies, don't snap or strip out, surprisingly good for being made in china
http://www.harborfreight.com/9-piec...-and-3-8-eighth-inch-square-drives-91238.html

3 Piece Hex Drill Socket Extensions - Pass - Dont' know what to say about them lol, they work.
http://www.harborfreight.com/3-piece-hex-drill-socket-extensions-42191.html

6 Piece SAE 3/8" Drive Hex Bit Set - Pass - I love these, they work great, last tons longer than craftsman bit sockets. But may not work for others because I do know on cars there are some things that need to be torqued a TON with hex bit sockets
http://www.harborfreight.com/6-piece-sae-3-8-eighth-inch-drive-hex-bit-set-35182.html

6 Piece Metric 3/8" Drive Hex Bit Set - Pass same as up above ^^^
http://www.harborfreight.com/6-piece-metric-3-8-eighth-inch-drive-hex-bit-set-35183.html

16 pc. SAE 1/2" Drive Deep Well Impact Socket Set - Pass (got on clearance, no longer made) Paint wears off after some use though

10 Piece 1/2" Drive Heavy Duty Metric Impact Socket Set - Pass - Only bad thing is it doesn't come with a 15 and 18 mm
http://www.harborfreight.com/10-pie...eavy-duty-metric-impact-socket-set-46013.html

9 Pc. 1/2" drive SAE deep well socket set - Pass - really great sockets for the price, look a lot like SK sockets ($2.97 on clearance, no longer made)

64 Piece 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2" Socket Set - Pass - Ratchets are ok, sockets are pretty good, good set to start you out.
http://www.harborfreight.com/64-pie...h-inch-and-1-2-half-inch-socket-set-4178.html

10 pc. 3/8" drive metric shallow socket set - pass - Not as great as the non laser etched taiwan sockets but these do fine. Haven't pushed them to the limit yet but they've worked for my dad. (still made but can't find on website)

 

[subarub4]

Here She goes, Indy's big long list of HF pass/fail... I'll start with the fails

1/2" Pneumatic Impact Wrench - FAIL (starts blowing out air)
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-2-half-inch-pneumatic-impact-wrench-95310.html

1/8" High Speed Steel Titanium Nitride Drill Bits, 10 Pack - FAIL (snap like a twig)
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-8-ei...itanium-nitride-drill-bits-10-pack-93079.html

1" to 2-1/2" Hole Saw Set - FAIL (teeth are duller than ****)
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-inch-to-2-1-2-half-inch-hole-saw-set-94023.html

14" alum. bolt cutters - FAIL (they no longer sell this item, it doesn't cut thin wire even)

16 Piece Wrench Rack - FAIL (wrenches dont fit, Pittsburgh or Craftsman)
http://www.harborfreight.com/16-piece-wrench-rack-36930.html

Snap Ring Pliers with Interchangeable Heads - EPIC FAIL (just a terrible snap ring pliers)
http://www.harborfreight.com/snap-ring-pliers-with-interchangeable-heads-3316.html

that 1/2" impact you posted I picked that up from HF and what a mistake that was... that made me go out and get the earthquake..

that cheap 1/2" is a waste of money big time.. besides a screw for the back was already stripped and the inside area where the hammer is was not filled with any oil at all :-/

funny thing is I still have it sitting in my living room that's for reminding me to throw it out in the morning.

 

[Indy_500]

Now for some ratchets

1/2" Drive 25" Breaker Bar - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-2-half-inch-drive-25-inch-breaker-bar-30395.html

3/8" Drive 17" Breaker Bar - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/3-8-eighth-inch-drive-17-inch-breaker-bar-37391.html

1/4" Quick Release Swivel Head Ratchet - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-4-quarter-inch-quick-release-swivel-head-ratchet-96781.html

3/8" Quick Release Swivel Head Ratchet - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/3-8-eighth-inch-quick-release-swivel-head-ratchet-96782.html

1/2" Quick Release Swivel Head Ratchet - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-2-half-inch-quick-release-swivel-head-ratchet-96783.html

1/4" Heavy Duty Composite Ratchet - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-4-quarter-inch-heavy-duty-composite-ratchet-66312.html

3/8" Heavy Duty Composite Ratchet - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/3-8-eighth-inch-heavy-duty-composite-ratchet-66313.html

1/4" Thumb ratchet (with rubber grip) - Pass (no longer made)

1/2" Thumb ratchet (with rubber grip) - Pass (no longer made)

 

[Indy_500]

that 1/2" impact you posted I picked that up from HF and what a mistake that was... that made me go out and get the earthquake..

that cheap 1/2" is a waste of money big time.. besides a screw for the back was already stripped and the inside area where the hammer is was not filled with any oil at all :-/

funny thing is I still have it sitting in my living room that's for reminding me to throw it out in the morning.

it truly is a pos i bought the small compact 1/2" impact and it was pretty good, it'll be coming up on my "lists"

 

[Indy_500]

Now for air related items (not much, i will get more)

Sta-Lube Air Tool Oil - Pass (MADE IN THE USA!!!)
http://www.harborfreight.com/sta-lube-air-tool-oil-40706.html

1/2'' x 520" TEFLON® Thread Seal Tape, 10 Rolls - pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-2-half-inch-x-520-inch-teflon-thread-seal-tape-10-rolls-1123.html

1/2" Compact Air Impact Wrench - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-2-half-inch-compact-air-impact-wrench-94802.html

1/4" Female Steel Automotive Coupler - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-4-quarter-inch-female-automotive-quick-change-coupler-94132.html

 

[Indy_500]

Now for machinist and measuring and drill bit stuff and punch & chisel stuff

60 Piece Alloy Steel SAE/Metric Tap and Die Set - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/60-piece-sae-metric-tap-and-die-set-35407.html

25 ft. x 1" Tape Measure - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/25-ft-x-1-inch-tape-measure-47737.html

6" Digital Caliper - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/6-inch-digital-caliper-47257.html

6 Piece Spade Drill Set - pass (except mine are titanium coated)
http://www.harborfreight.com/6-piece-spade-drill-set-2728.html

10 Piece Jumbo Punch and Chisel Set - Pass (just dont put them in vinegar if they start to slightly rust, it'll change colors)
http://www.harborfreight.com/10-piece-jumbo-punch-and-chisel-set-66214.html

3 Piece Wood Chisel Set - pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/3-piece-wood-chisel-set-66590.html

 

[Indy_500]

now for wrenches (i do not recommend HF wrenches, but they do the job. One quick look at a HF wrench shows how low quality most of them are, but they do, do the job)

13 Piece Ball End Hex Key Set - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/13-piece-ball-end-hex-key-set-94680.html

8 Piece SAE Offset Box Wrench Set - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/8-piece-sae-offset-box-wrench-set-32041.html

Pack of 3 Folding Star Bit and SAE/Metric Hex Keys - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/pack-of-3-folding-star-bit-and-sae-metric-hex-keys-94905.html

4 Piece Steel Adjustable Wrench Set - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/4-piece-steel-adjustable-wrench-set-903.html

22 Piece Metric/SAE Combination Wrench Set - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/22-piece-metric-sae-combination-wrench-set-47467.html

 

[scott37300]

Now for machinist and measuring and drill bit stuff and punch & chisel stuff

60 Piece Alloy Steel SAE/Metric Tap and Die Set - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/60-piece-sae-metric-tap-and-die-set-35407.html

25 ft. x 1" Tape Measure - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/25-ft-x-1-inch-tape-measure-47737.html

6" Digital Caliper - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/6-inch-digital-caliper-47257.html

6 Piece Spade Drill Set - pass (except mine are titanium coated)
http://www.harborfreight.com/6-piece-spade-drill-set-2728.html

10 Piece Jumbo Punch and Chisel Set - Pass (just dont put them in vinegar if they start to slightly rust, it'll change colors)
http://www.harborfreight.com/10-piece-jumbo-punch-and-chisel-set-66214.html

3 Piece Wood Chisel Set - pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/3-piece-wood-chisel-set-66590.html

Have you used the tap set to make new threads? I have a nice big mac set but it only goes up to M12. I was thinking about getting the HF metric set that goes up to M24 http://www.harborfreight.com/45-pie...ide-coated-alloy-steel-tap-die-set-41452.html

But have read some bad stuff about the tap and dies from HF. I probably would just use these for chasing threads on cars and trucks. But have read that they can be out of spec and actually damage the threads. It would be nice to have a set of larger sizes but if they are going to mess up the threads I guess I would rather buy nice ones one at a time as needed to complete a set.

 

[Indy_500]

weird stuff now

3 Oz. RTV Silicone - Red - pass (made in usa!!!!!)
http://www.harborfreight.com/3-oz-rtv-silicone-red-90026.html

10 Rolls 3/4" x 60 Ft. Industrial Grade Electrical Tape - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/10-rol...ft-industrial-grade-electrical-tape-6047.html

6-1/2" Glue Gun - Barely Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/6-1-2-half-inch-glue-gun-47444.html

50 Piece Glue Sticks - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/50-piece-glue-sticks-47772.html

Flex Drive Compression Tester - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/flex-drive-compression-tester-92697.html

4 Piece Pick and Hook Set - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/4-piece-pick-and-hook-set-66836.html

Heavy Duty Chain Breaker - pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/heavy-duty-chain-breaker-66488.html

Pack of 10 4-1/2" Cut-off Wheels for Metal - Pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/pack-of-10-4-1-2-half-inch-cut-off-wheels-for-metal-45430.html

1500 Watt Dual Temperature Heat Gun (572°/1112°) - Pass (except mines yellow)
http://www.harborfreight.com/1500-watt-dual-temperature-heat-gun-572-1112-96289.html

6" Wire Wheel - pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/6-inch-wire-wheel-46764.html

1 Lb. Rubber Mallet - pass
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-lb-rubber-mallet-39646.html

 

[Indy_500]

Have you used the tap set to make new threads? I have a nice big mac set but it only goes up to M12. I was thinking about getting the HF metric set that goes up to M24 http://www.harborfreight.com/45-pie...ide-coated-alloy-steel-tap-die-set-41452.html

But have read some bad stuff about the tap and dies from HF. I probably would just use these for chasing threads on cars and trucks. But have read that they can be out of spec and actually damage the threads. It would be nice to have a set of larger sizes but if they are going to mess up the threads I guess I would rather buy nice ones one at a time as needed to complete a set.

I only spent around $20 on a set that's worth $50. Mine is the alloy steel vs. the cheaper carbon steel. I have made completly new threads, they were decent. I recommend buying single taps and dies for your use, since $65 seems like a lot for a tap and die set from HF not knowing if it will pan out or not

 

[Indy_500]

last but not least, pry bars, pliers, and screwdrivers

22 Piece Screwdriver Set - Pass - Nice softgrip handles, none of them strip out relativly easy except the torx drivers. Got mine for $8 so good deal to me.
http://www.harborfreight.com/22-piece-screwdriver-set-95114.html

6 Piece Screwdriver Set - barely pass, but i got them free w/coupon. Really just some cheap drivers but if you don't use screwdrivers often, and you can still find the free coupon for these they work.
http://www.harborfreight.com/6-piece-screwdriver-set-47770.html

1/4" x 4" Slotted Screwdriver - pass - Great handles, haven't had one spin out. These are some really great screwdrivers for the price. They do make an 8 pc Pro set. I'd get it in a heartbeat if i didnt buy the 22 pc set which i'm now mad at myself for because these are soo awesome. Someone said they're similar to witte.
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-4-quarter-inch-x-4-inch-slotted-screwdriver-94604.html

#2 x 4" Phillips Screwdriver - pass - Same thing as i just said above ^^^
http://www.harborfreight.com/2-x-4-inch-phillips-screwdriver-94707.html

8 Piece Right Angle Screwdriver - pass - ratchets ok. Does the job if you realy need that right angle which i did
http://www.harborfreight.com/8-piece-right-angle-screwdriver-92630.html

6 Piece Pliers Set - pass - Needle nose and linemans pliers are probably the 2 best ones in this set. I guess i don't have anything to complain about for a pliers set like this for this low of a price other than the handles are orange and shows LOTS of grease
http://www.harborfreight.com/6-piece-pliers-set-38082.html

Piston Ring Pliers - barely pass - feels a little weak, i doubt it would get big pistons of cars/trucks but worked for me on a weed-eater
http://www.harborfreight.com/piston-ring-pliers-95795.html

4 Piece Heavy Duty Pry Bar Set - pass - truly great pry bars for the price. I've abused them and haven't bent one yet. I've stood on these trying to pry stuff up and they didn't bend or break at all (i weigh like 220)
http://www.harborfreight.com/4-piece-heavy-duty-pry-bar-set-1654.html

 

[Indy_500]

If anyone would like me to elaborate more on certain items, just ask. I tried to list reasonings as to why i gave certain items fails, but i had so many passes it would just take too long, so if you would like to know how much i like a product or something just ask.

 

[djb2]

You didn't like
----
1/8" High Speed Steel Titanium Nitride Drill Bits, 10 Pack - FAIL (snap like a twig)
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-8-eig...ack-93079.html
-----

I think that these are PASS.
Well, at least when they occasionally go on coupon sale at 10 for $1.

I use them exclusively for drilling metal, saving the matched bits in the set for easy work. You have to keep them lubricated or they dull quickly. Yes, they snap readily if you get sloppy. I haven't had one bend rather than snap -- that might be a plus. Their real advantage is that at $0.10 each, you abuse them and readily throw them away when dull.

 

[Stick Figure]

i would say more info is needed on both the passes and fails. What one person thinks is okay or not okay is different than another so its good to give as much info as possible to give the review an idea of how the tool was used to achieve its pass or fail ranking.

 

[Indy_500]

i would say more info is needed on both the passes and fails. What one person thinks is okay or not okay is different than another so its good to give as much info as possible to give the review an idea of how the tool was used to achieve its pass or fail ranking.

alright, i'll work on that. I got one section done, but i don't want to spend my last day of summer dinking around on here

 

[Indy_500]

You didn't like
----
1/8" High Speed Steel Titanium Nitride Drill Bits, 10 Pack - FAIL (snap like a twig)
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-8-eig...ack-93079.html
-----

I think that these are PASS.
Well, at least when they occasionally go on coupon sale at 10 for $1.

I use them exclusively for drilling metal, saving the matched bits in the set for easy work. You have to keep them lubricated or they dull quickly. Yes, they snap readily if you get sloppy. I haven't had one bend rather than snap -- that might be a plus. Their real advantage is that at $0.10 each, you abuse them and readily throw them away when dull.

I only didn't like them because they snapped so easily. I have Ryobi drill bits (probably re-branded ryobi somethings) and also some irwin and they haven't snapped with good amounts of pressure like the HF ones

 

[mrholeshot]

1/4" x 4" Slotted Screwdriver - pass - Great handles, haven't had one spin out. These are some really great screwdrivers for the price. They do make an 8 pc Pro set. I'd get it in a heartbeat if i didnt buy the 22 pc set which i'm now mad at myself for because these are soo awesome. Someone said they're similar to witte.
http://www.harborfreight.com/1-4-quarter-inch-x-4-inch-slotted-screwdriver-94604.html

#2 x 4" Phillips Screwdriver - pass - Same thing as i just said above ^^^
http://www.harborfreight.com/2-x-4-inch-phillips-screwdriver-94707.html

I'd sure have to agree with you on these. They had them on sale for .99 cents a while back and I picked up about 10 of each. I have them stashed all over the house. I havent really put the slotted one through the paces yet but I tried my best to destroy the phillips on some deck screws I gave out way faster than the screwdriver. You would be hard pressed to fing a better screwdriver for 4X as much. Very comfortable and very strong along with being very cheap.

 

[wbclassics]

HF Black Nitrile Gloves, SKU: 97582: MAJOR PASS!!!

We've been wearing nitrile gloves in the shop for years. Started out with the typical blue nitrile gloves from some medical supply place, they tore like crazy. Stepped up to a thicker industrial grade purple glove from GloveNation, which was better. But I grabbed a box of HF Blacks the last time they were on sale, to give them a try.

The HF black nitrile gloves are far superior to any other nitrile glove I've worn for shop work. The pair I just took off was on for 3 hours, without a puncture or rip, and the only reason they came off was for lunch. Our other gloves have textured finger tips, but the HF glove has fully textured fingers and palms, a very nice feature. I think the extra thickness that the texturing provides along the entire underside of the glove is the primary reason it has excellent rip resistance.

They're a little more expensive than the case price I was paying for when buying in bulk from GloveNation, but with a lower rip rate, these are going to be more economical in the long run.

 

[Tom2]

The cheap latex ones work by far the best for me. They're so much more flexible. The blue and black ones come apart too easily. The cheap latex ones turned out to be the most durable IMO. Other than maybe with chemicals..but they'll go through all of the gloves anyways. Just gotta change them fairly frequently when working with carb cleaners, oil, etc..

 

[mrholeshot]

What a bunch of wussies wearing nitrile gloves. All those chemicals won't hurt you and after years of using them with no protection I find that third arm growing out of the center of my back comes in pretty handy.

 

[Romanova]

Anyone had any luck using expired coupons at HF? I have an old one for their 12 ton shop press for $79.99... wonder if they would take it?

 

[cf2004]

they don't on their online store. they say the code is invaild.

 

[antiquarianmusings]

1/2" drive click stop torque wrench, 20-150 foot lbs. has been a good tool for 2+ years now...currently on sale for $11.99. Mine is made in Taiwan and listed as accurate to +-4%

 

[djb2]

I've used at least a few boxes of each type of glove.

I've found that they vary significantly by batch.

Originally the white latex gloves were tough and moderately durable. Then we got a few thin batches where they tore putting them on. Recently we bought another batch that is merely OK -- they hold up for an oil change, or for long enough to wipe clean dirty tools.

The light blue nitrile glove have varied from about the same as the white latex, to significantly more durable. The current batch averages about an hour of use. Once a tear starts, it's all over -- they tear the rest of the way like thin aluminum foil.

The black nitrile gloves are just a little tougher than the light blue.

The dark blue gloves are usually my favorite. They are thick and very durable. They come only 50 to a pack, and cost 4x as much as the thin white latex, but last though several work sessions. A little nick doesn't propagate. They also are good insulators -- you can pick up pretty hot pieces without needing to immediately drop them. The downside is that sweat pretty much pours out of them when you take them off in warm weather.

 

[Danglerb]

They can't take expired coupons, the register won't accept it, but several times the manager has given me whatever the last sale price was etc. overriding the register. I'd say it depends on the store, if they know you, and what you have and or are buying.

Pure latex goes to **** with gas or a number of other common around the shop items, so I only wear them for certain jobs, but like to keep a box around since they make an "ok" substitute throw away glove. Anything serious and I want a good brand, the price difference isn't worth the problems of cheap gloves.

 

[subarub4]

The cheap latex ones work by far the best for me. They're so much more flexible. The blue and black ones come apart too easily. The cheap latex ones turned out to be the most durable IMO. Other than maybe with chemicals..but they'll go through all of the gloves anyways. Just gotta change them fairly frequently when working with carb cleaners, oil, etc..

I used the blue 2 ply for staining and I think I used about 40 gloves but for most now chemicals they work fine...

I have more then enough gloves with those free boxes from medexpress.

 

[Bolster]

I've found that they vary significantly by batch.

That's what drives me crazy about HF.

Inconsistency.

You think you find something good, you go buy another one, it's lousy.

Look at this thread...guys arguing whether something's pass or fail. It's probably BOTH, just depends on what batch was on the table the day you walked in.

 

[MomentumPhoto]

HF Black Nitrile Gloves, SKU: 97582: MAJOR PASS!!!

Another vote for these. I've been doing a lot of brake jobs lately and I'm amazed at how well they hold up. Even re-use a pair from time to time with no issues.

I'll also cast my PASS vote for the 1/2" Electric Impact Wrench.

Both my stepdad and I were standing on the end of a breaker bar and couldn't get his lugnuts loose. Quick trip to HF to grab the wrench and they got those rusty nuts off right away.

Yeah it's big and heavy but what do you expect? It works. Like the replaceable brushes too.

 

[Falcon67]

Chicago Electric Welding Systems 90305 Mig Cart PASS

At the time of this writing, it's on sale for $40. I put one together and it's a decent item for the $. Takes up less space than my old flat bed cart (also a HF unit) and is much, much sturdier. Eastwood sells what looks like the same cart for $50, which is cheaper than the regular HF price of $60. Go figure Eastwood cheaper than HF. The hooks for cords and cables looked small, but worked fine. The casters and rear tires work OK and the cart maneuvers fine but they could be reworked to a better grade for little extra $.

Notes:
I changed most of the hardware from Chi 10 mm to 1/4" I had plenty of 3/4" 1/4-20 bolts and a whole sack of serrated flange nuts. Made it very sturdy. I left the Chi hardware on the top shelf to leave clearance for my Hobart 140. All holes were plenty big, no drilling required.

The chains actually reach around my big mix bottle, unlike the old cart which came with what looked like a collar for a very small dog.

My Hobart 140 has a side door that comes all the way down on the left (facing the controls). I slid a piece of cedar shake under that side so the door clears the tray. I'm on the lookout for some cheap stick on rubber feet to put under the welder.

I'm tall - 6' 1". The cart is a decent height - no problem with the welder controls. It would still please me if it could be a couple of inches taller. I want to grab the welder to move the cart instead of the lip on the top tray. The rear tire shaft is a metric 1/2" (about .435) diameter. The tube under the welder takes a real 1/2" shaft just fine, so I will probably buy a set of 4" or 5" casters and some slightly larger diameter rear tires.

 

[Scout Driver]

Anyone had any luck using expired coupons at HF? I have an old one for their 12 ton shop press for $79.99... wonder if they would take it?

Fargo ND store checks the date on the coupons. I had no luck with my expired coupon.

Scott

 

[Indy_500]

Fargo ND store checks the date on the coupons. I had no luck with my expired coupon.

Scott

i've had no luck with expired coupons either