Typical Harbor Freight Customers

[FarmerPete]

#7 The returner. The guy who was a #2, but went against his better judgement and bought what he though was a simple tool (i.e. no moving parts or electronics), but found that HF had some how managed to mess up such a simple design. Consequentially, he picks up a free flashlight while he's there and then angrily throws it in the trash as he walks out, just to stick it to HF's profits.

 

[jmscollinsiii]

Sigh...(with a heavy deep voice), I wish I owned HF I would be laughing , all the way to the bank.

I like this!

 

[creativecars]

#7 The returner. The guy who was a #2, but went against his better judgement and bought what he though was a simple tool (i.e. no moving parts or electronics), but found that HF had some how managed to mess up such a simple design. Consequentially, he picks up a free flashlight while he's there and then angrily throws it in the trash as he walks out, just to stick it to HF's profits.

Yeah, the one who drove 15 miles both ways to save $1.50 and is now mad because his plan to be cheap didn't work out... again...

 

[Jagmandave]

I find a number of these descriptions interesting, if for no other reason than they show the writer's own prejudices and insecurities....

Especially the fellow who complains about the stupidity of HF customers but doesn't know the correct spelling or usage of "their, they're, and there".

I also find it interesting that some of you have to look up online reviews of something to decide whether you'll buy it.

I can tell fairly readily by looking at and handling a tool whether it's made well enough to buy or if it will suit my purpose.....sometimes a tool fails that I bought there, but usually it's one I only needed to use once and didn't expect to last, so I don't feel cheated. OTOH, it's rare that I buy a tool that I only expect to use once.

The HF 44" boxes are a good example, the one on display in the store told me everything I needed to know before I bought two of them.

HF is a simply a good resource, nothing more nothing less.

 

[jd_1138]

"UUUU TUCH MY CAMARO AND I'LL KIK YERRR AZZZZZZ" As long as you don't have a mullet it's ok!

Seriously I have no room to talk in my dented 2wd '88 Ranger

I haven't looked up reviews on my phone in the store yet but I am the retard running around with coupons on my cell phone asking if they'll take them that way (they did)

I saw the female version of Joe Dirt last week in West Virginia. I went down there for a work project, and I was gassing up my car at a Sheetz when I looked over and saw a 3rd gen ('82 to '92) Camaro. It was probably a late 80's one -- an RS with a V6. It looked nice and well taken care of. So I guess that is not very Joe Dirt-like.

The driver had her back turned towards me as she was sliding her credit card through the pump to pay. She had long blonde hair almost down to her **** and was about the same size as Joe Dirt/David Spade (who is small for a man). She turned around and wow -- what a knockout. Beautiful face, dusting of freckles, blue eyes. Curvy body. After gassing up, she jumped in her Camaro and took off. Female Joe Dirt -- except her car was in great shape and she was attractive.

As for HF, here's another HF customer type. The grouchy old farts who think there's a conspiracy out to get them thus they never sign up for the flyers/coupons. They pay full price for every HF item they buy. They probably have never seen a HF coupon. And there's no box of freebies in their garages.

Those freebies make great little stocking stuffers or presents unto themselves. We had an office gift exchange a couple of years ago. My recipient received a 6 pack of screwdrivers, 3 LED flashlights, 2 pairs of scissors, a tape measure, a 4 pack of HF adjustable wrenches, and a HF hammer all in a small HF toolbox. They were over the moon. The budget was $20-$25. This person was an office person so they didn't have any tools at home and didn't even know what HF is. I paid about $20 for the items, and the rest were freebies.

 

[TreePointer]

...HF is a simply a good resource, nothing more nothing less.

And by evidence of this discussion and many others, HF is also a cultural phenomenon very much similar to the IKEA experience. We all know what to expect at these stores (the good, the bad, the quirky), and people from different walks of life can instantly bond by the shared experience. I wouldn't be surprised if there's a stand-up comedian who has worked HF into his bit.

 

[Steinmetz]

they're opening a new store near my GF's house and whilst ive never been to a HF today I saw they're newly hired store associates. they were between the ages of 17-35 all wearing sneakers and smoking right outside the store on there break. theyre knowledge of tools looked to be on a par with the quality of most HF tools...

are all they're associates like this? these guys looked like recovering drug addicts and alcoholics with the odd crazy thrown in to mix it up, not meaning to judge a book by its cover. maybe il be surprised by there knowledge when it opens on Saturday and i go check it out.

id say im a #2 as all that appeals to me are theyre consumables.

You forgot to mention the carnival freak-style tattoos.

 

[ganymede]

The bigoted grumps who hate that 'everything's made in China' but are regular shoppers at HF. They use racist epithets to show how angry they are at Chinese who not only work harder for less money but also have the nerve to cater to American demand for cheapest possible products (imagine the gall)
They complain that domestic tools are too much money and almost never buy them. When they do buy something from Craftsman that has a USA stamp on it they complain about a lack of quality. They may actually still complain about the price too.

 

[monster1]

How bout this guy? The guy who knows everything and thinks hf tools are the best. He needs to tell you everything about the product you are looking at. He doesn't even work there and you sure as hell didn't ask but he tells you anyway. He is an expert in woodworking, automotive repair, home repair, and anything else you might mention. Oh, and did I mention that he lives out of his mid 80's panel van in the parking lot? Yep.

 

[fitz11]

My favorite is the snap on die hard who doesn't own snap on tools. This person normally come in to harbor freight while on their lunch break from the quick lube. You can identify them because they are wearing all of their snap on gear all the time. Socks, jacket, hat, gloves, underwear it's all on. They normally have a handful of sockets, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers and a handful of coupons.

 

[jd_1138]

The bigoted grumps who hate that 'everything's made in China' but are regular shoppers at HF. They use racist epithets to show how angry they are at Chinese who not only work harder for less money but also have the nerve to cater to American demand for cheapest possible products (imagine the gall)
They complain that domestic tools are too much money and almost never buy them. When they do buy something from Craftsman that has a USA stamp on it they complain about a lack of quality. They may actually still complain about the price too.

I wouldn't say that most people are angry at the actual Chinese factory workers themselves who, let's face it, are virtual slave labor.

It's a nuanced situation. The anger I feel out of it is towards the once great American co's who chose to move production overseas (granted some of it is due to people wanting the absolute cheapest prices).

 

[creativecars]

My favorite is the snap on die hard who doesn't own snap on tools. This person normally come in to harbor freight while on their lunch break from the quick lube. You can identify them because they are wearing all of their snap on gear all the time. Socks, jacket, hat, gloves, underwear it's all on. They normally have a handful of sockets, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers and a handful of coupons.

Hea now... lets not throw stones.
Yes I have a "vette". Its just like the one on my jacket that is covering my vette shirt and it's blue like my vette hat. Even my shoes say "vette" when I walk.
Of course I'm talking about my "Chevette".

 

[wjamyers]

4. The guy who reads GJ and knows how to separate the decent stuff from the ****.

 

[Revere Cycles]

I am one of those guys who can identify the few good products at HF and use my better judgement to make a purchase. This weekend, I picked up a Jason Accu-Link belt for my Yates American J-Line 8" jointer using the super coupon.

I also have a couple of their swivel head ratchets, a set of Pittsburgh wrenches, and impact sockets for the junk yard. I looked at the HF 41/44" box several times before landing on a pair of used Snap-On and Kennedy rollers. As ridiculous as it sounds, HF is a fun place to go and look around. Some products are really quite terrible, and others are very good for the price.

I will say that the service at my local Harbor Freight is MUCH better than my local Home Depot store... The clerks at my HF actually have good answers and can help without giving me attitude.

 

[ganymede]

I wouldn't say that most people are angry at the actual Chinese factory workers themselves.....

I feel the same way and thinking about it now the word 'typical' in the thread title makes my stereotype out of place in this thread.
I've actually only been to HF once and remember this type of shmuck though.

 

[wjamyers]

I find a number of these descriptions interesting, if for no other reason than they show the writer's own prejudices and insecurities....

Especially the fellow who complains about the stupidity of HF customers but doesn't know the correct spelling or usage of "their, they're, and there".

I also find it interesting that some of you have to look up online reviews of something to decide whether you'll buy it.

I can tell fairly readily by looking at and handling a tool whether it's made well enough to buy or if it will suit my purpose.....

I can't, because I'm a computer programmer who knows nearly nothing about cars and tools. Thus, constantly trolling the HF Pass/Fail and Coupon threads and clicking "New Posts" like a crack monkey.

I'm kitting out my new HF tool cart with stuff I see recommended here (and elsewhere) as good bang for the buck; HF, cman, gearwrench, evercraft, I don't care what brand or made where, I'm putting together a weekend warrior's set for cheap that will allow my lazy *** to get the job done with as little drama and pain as possible.

I don't think it's ever been easier or less expensive.

 

[theoldwizard1]

There's a lot of guys that fit between 2 & 3. Very selective of the tools they buy from HF but also willing to give something a chance if it looks/feels decent (or more willing than the pure #2). I feel like I fit into this category better than either of yours.

ME TOO !

Those 1.99 hand squeeze clamps, forget it. They slip and I've broken a couple already. But how far wrong can you go for $1.99 !

Recently I have bought some "specialty" pliers (long reach angled and hose grip), so far so good ! I also bought the 7 piece hook and pick set.

 

[Danglerb]

Last time I was there it was like a meeting of the AARP, but I also see plenty of guys in name badge uniforms loading up a cart of stuff for work. Lots of pairs of guys, somebody that knows HF showing the new guy what to buy or not buy.

Many old people really have the itch to buy anything that looks like a bargain. HF isn't a bad spot to kill a half hour if you are waiting for somebody, roam the aisles with a 25% off coupon plus a free item. How do you beat a 49 cent razor scraper for 37 cents with a free pair of gloves?

What you almost never see is nobody buying something at the register, and its often two or three lines of people buying stuff, and I have dropped by this store at all hours of the days from early morning til just before closing. Some serious dollars change hands in a HF.

 

[jsa83]

i've only bought a few things there but nothing really considered "tools".. lithium grease, bungee cords, shop fan, tool organizer. ... i usually just go to harbor freight when my friend who's a DIY'er with his car needs advice on what to get. i work at a dealership as a line tech and a kid that use to work at my dealership as an oil changer got let go and now works at the HF in my town. i always try to avoid him when i see him so that awkward conversation won't arise...

 

[HighwayTrout]

I'm a solid 2 but commingle with the #1 crowd. I buy my bag of rags or box of gloves and get pissed when I don't get my free throw away screw drivers or flashlight. Hahaha

Walking around HF is almost right up there with walmart on my list of places I absolutely loath.

 

[TreePointer]

Walking around HF is almost right up there with walmart on my list of places I absolutely loath.

I will say that the HF people tend not to be as fat as our WM shoppers.

 

[oldtools]

There are those that buy, finish the job, and then return the tools.

 

[nahuebsch82]

number....umm 13? the "Wife mandated customer" ...A tradesmen, hobbyist or back yard wrench who is allotted a "tool fund" where even if the truck guys wernt flakes wouldn't get you much in way of truck credit so you HAVE to resort to shop for the best bang for the buck or at times cheapest you can get.

 

[GoodEnough]

#6) Guy who feels HF is awesome for 1 big reason: There are many tools he would never have justified buying for 1 use (or maybe never use period, but can't hurt to have on hand), but at 10%-20% of the cost of Craftsman, he says why not? I never thought I'd own one of these. At $25-$50, no way. But, at $5 and under, he'll toss one in the box.

The following items for the cost of a slice of pizza or two:
u-joints, extension bars, oil pan, funnels, jack, jack stands, thumb ratchet, magnetic pick up tool, wheel chocks, oil suction gun, pick tools, trim pry tools, wobble extensions, sandpaper, razor blade scrapers, C-clamps, grease, bungee cords, zip ties, epoxy, impact sockets, etc.
The list is endless.

HF is a killer resource that makes owning basic tools cheaper than ever before.

 

[nicksnothereman]

My favorite is the snap on die hard who doesn't own snap on tools. This person normally come in to harbor freight while on their lunch break from the quick lube. You can identify them because they are wearing all of their snap on gear all the time. Socks, jacket, hat, gloves, underwear it's all on. They normally have a handful of sockets, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers and a handful of coupons.

I was joking about that. They can't possibly rebrand such a product, it's just not possible.

 

[Mickey O]

There's the Harbor Freight "customer" that never quite makes it to the store.

 

[Danglerb]

The following items for the cost of a slice of pizza or two:
u-joints, extension bars, oil pan, funnels, jack, jack stands, thumb ratchet, magnetic pick up tool, wheel chocks, oil suction gun, pick tools, trim pry tools, wobble extensions, sandpaper, razor blade scrapers, C-clamps, grease, bungee cords, zip ties, epoxy, impact sockets, etc.

Walmart has the same basic oil pan for half the price of the HF, but doesn't take coupons.

OTOH HF recently updated their oil pan with post on one side to drain the filter, still kind of pricey at on sale for $6, used to be $2 at Walmart.

 

[pepi]

I will say that the HF people tend not to be as fat as our WM shoppers.

Now that's one true statement, just as clueless though need help finding their own *** with both hands, make me glad I am not in customer service.

 

[creativecars]

Now that's one true statement, just as clueless though need help finding their own *** with both hands, make me glad I am not in customer service.

Sometimes they do a 4 point shopping trip...
1. Starbucks, because that’s what the cool people do, but can't figure out
what they want to order.
2. Discount Smokes/Liquor, gotta start early.
3. Wal-mart, need some Mt. Dew.
4. Harbor Freight, get some free stuff and ***** about it...

 

[kythri]

I find a number of these descriptions interesting, if for no other reason than they show the writer's own prejudices and insecurities....

Especially the fellow who complains about the stupidity of HF customers but doesn't know the correct spelling or usage of "their, they're, and there".

I think that you'll find that the vast majority of those folks haven't even been into a Harbor Freight, and just like to jump on the bash-wagon.

It makes them feel special, like they're part of a club.

 

[kc-steve]

My first post in this thread. I have a more positive outlook on the Harbor Freight customer.

When I was first checking them out a few years ago, I was standing in the usual long line at the checkout counter when I overheard a guy telling his wife/girlfriend how useful his new air compressor with 20-gallon tank is going to be in things like painting the car . . . (hardly)

I concluded from that and other overheard conversations that most of the customers were new tool hoarders who haven't found out what quality tools are YET. In other words, future people like ourselves, emphasis on "future."

This can only be a good thing.

Steve

 

[Vegaman_Dan]

I buy what works for me. This forum has been great at identifying gems that I would potentially have overlooked, while also warning me away from things I might have picked based solely upon my exposure to them at the store itself.

I'm perhaps one of the worst customer types out there:

An educated consumer.

 

[Kev442]

Guess I'm a #6. I get the oddball one off tools to make a job go easier and if I never use it again, I'm out a whopping $8.99. I also get little used tools that I may never use such as stubbies and extra longs that I may touch once a year. There goes $14.99, but if saves a swearing session, well worth it.

I'm also a #7. He walks in, buys what he needs and doesn't pay any attention to what the other people shopping there look like or are buying. Kind of like every other store he goes to, he has better things to do with his time and his life.

 

[TAMPAGT07]

I'm not sure where I rate, but there are some tools that I swear by...I'm looking outside, in my pool area, and I see a HF cement mixer, a HF wetsaw, a HF sawzall, several HF hand drills, and several HF grinders...So far, I have beat the **** out of all of them, and only the grinders have gone back numerious times....I have approx $350 in all of these tools (mixer was a $50 CL find) and without HF, I'd proabably have to lay out more like $1500 for better quality tools... I truely need HF.....

 

[pauls_workshop]

There is also the intelligent, savvy, shopper (non pro mechanic DIY type) who doesn't need or want to spend big bucks on tools but is interested in getting very nice tools cheap. I buy alot there but I only buy things recommended on the forums here! I love the place and am saving lots of money vs. buying these things somewhere else for lower quality than HF. - Paul

 

[comedyman809]

I'm the guy outside in the parking lot throwing up from the awful stink of place, and bowing my head in shame for even going there, yet i never buy anything, just look and see if there is anything new that i might need.

 

[Farmall450]

I'm a mix of 1 & 2. I pretty much only buy consumables there. I do buy the occasional hand tool, but I usually know what I want before stepping foot in the store thanks to online reviews and this forum. Since driving by HF is part of my daily commute, I'm that cheap ******* who always uses coupons. Usually I use the 20-25% coupon on one item and then get a freebie. I'll stop again another day and do the same thing if there's something else I want.

If I'm in the same town, I too will grab gloves, etc as "consumables."

NOTE: I picked up a new pair on clearance table for $5 bones, and those goatskin ones (what they call 'em) KICKASS.

I have a set of screwdrivers for my truck, and a few composites just cause you all like them so dearly.

 

[elronin]

I'm a mix of 1 & 2. I pretty much only buy consumables there. I do buy the occasional hand tool, but I usually know what I want before stepping foot in the store thanks to online reviews and this forum. Since driving by HF is part of my daily commute, I'm that cheap ******* who always uses coupons. Usually I use the 20-25% coupon on one item and then get a freebie. I'll stop again another day and do the same thing if there's something else I want.

I thought I was the only one who used the 20-25% coupon and got the freebie. Only difference is I go to my car, drop of what I just purchased, and go back in and use another coupon with a different cashier.

TheToolReviewGuy

 

[Jim_No_Garage]

#37 - The guy that buys something with the "How bad can it be?" attitude, uses it for a while and realizes it ACTUALLY works well. He buys MORE of the same item to give as gifts and that turns into an EPIC FAIL. He apparently bought the ONLY working example . . .

Jim

 

[thebeekeeper1]

I'm the guy outside in the parking lot throwing up from the awful stink of place, and bowing my head in shame for even going there, yet i never buy anything, just look and see if there is anything new that i might need.

I'm no doc, so pardon me if I'm misdiagnosing, but with the delicate stomach and lack of buying man tools in a man store, could you be pregnant?