Indy125
Well-known member
I like their 3/8 composite ratchet. Very low back drag.
Your Favorite HF Tool
- Thread starter zendriver
- Start date
James-W
Well-known member
I have one of these and I really like it.
https://www.harborfreight.com/jitterbug-orbital-air-sander-90115.html
I also use a lot of the Nitrile gloves they sell. Well, actually it isn't me using them, the wife and daughters work on projects and they use them.
https://www.harborfreight.com/jitterbug-orbital-air-sander-90115.html
I also use a lot of the Nitrile gloves they sell. Well, actually it isn't me using them, the wife and daughters work on projects and they use them.
wildbill23c
Well-known member
I've got several HF tools that I like and that work great. The nail guns seem pretty good, the 29Gal air compressor, benchtop mini lathe has made hundreds of pens the past few years, old orange 4" angle grinder just keeps on going, the 44" tool chest and top chest, vacuum pump, ac manifold gauge set, like I said I have several HF tools, when they work they work great and I like them. I've had 2 fail. A drill bit sharpener and a belt sander. I also have the 10" and 12" double bevel sliding compound miter saws, both of them work great as well the blades that they came with were garbage but I have diablo blades on them now and they do great.
619DioFan
Well-known member
Here are some I use all the time-
4 ton floor jack- great
18gauge brad/stapler with their pancake compressor- cost about 70.00 total and I use them all the time
3/8 inch drive double flex handle ratchet. thought this would be " gimicky " but first time using it to change plugs changed that thought. 72 tooth and gets into some hard places .one of my favorite ratchets.
floor mount metal bender for solid flat stock and round stock. on sale and a coupon paid 60.00. use this alot to make all kinds of things. just made a custom bracket from 2''x 1/4 thick flat stock. bent it easily. way better then a hammer and a vise.
Flux core wire welder - added the lincoln wire to it. does everything I need. probably use it 4 times a week.
I have many HF tools , these seem to get used more then most.
4 ton floor jack- great
18gauge brad/stapler with their pancake compressor- cost about 70.00 total and I use them all the time
3/8 inch drive double flex handle ratchet. thought this would be " gimicky " but first time using it to change plugs changed that thought. 72 tooth and gets into some hard places .one of my favorite ratchets.
floor mount metal bender for solid flat stock and round stock. on sale and a coupon paid 60.00. use this alot to make all kinds of things. just made a custom bracket from 2''x 1/4 thick flat stock. bent it easily. way better then a hammer and a vise.
Flux core wire welder - added the lincoln wire to it. does everything I need. probably use it 4 times a week.
I have many HF tools , these seem to get used more then most.
Crazyjake8493
Well-known member
4 drawer cart (work) and 5 drawer cart (home)
Flex-head ratcheting wrench sets
All different sizes of bar clamps for woodworking
$15 oscillating multi-tool
Impact sockets and 1/2" extendable ratchet
My latest favorite HF tool is the tone and probe kit for wire tracing. I kept eyeing the Fluke kit for $70 at Home Depot but decided to try the HF kit for $20 instead. It's already paid for itself in the week I've had it.
Flex-head ratcheting wrench sets
All different sizes of bar clamps for woodworking
$15 oscillating multi-tool
Impact sockets and 1/2" extendable ratchet
My latest favorite HF tool is the tone and probe kit for wire tracing. I kept eyeing the Fluke kit for $70 at Home Depot but decided to try the HF kit for $20 instead. It's already paid for itself in the week I've had it.
Wanna Ride
Well-known member
- Joined
- Jul 28, 2010
- Messages
- 2,790
As of recently, it has to be my Daytona 3-ton floor jack. That thing is a beutiful beast, absolutely love it.
lbhsbz
Well-known member
When I got my first hub as a mechanic back 20 years ago I bought a HF metric deep 1/2" drive impact socket set for $19.99....I broke the 21mm 5 years later (Toyota dealer...all Toyota lugs are 21mm) but rest are still going strong.
And their long needle nose pliers...I probably have 10 of em...straight ones get heated and bent for special jobs...can't beat the price.
And their long needle nose pliers...I probably have 10 of em...straight ones get heated and bent for special jobs...can't beat the price.
Same here. Very versatile to have.
nolan7120
Well-known member
jdlong
Well-known member
US General tool chest
Earthquake impact
3/8 drive telescoping handle ratchet
Earthquake impact
3/8 drive telescoping handle ratchet
the moving blankets for picking up items from the powder coater. I bought 15 or 20 grinders from them several years back for $10 each figuring I couldn't go wrong for the price but realized I did go wrong so I dumped the remaining ones off at the auction and doubled my money! I felt kinda bad about it actually that someone paid that much for them..
Captain Spaulding
Well-known member
Stubby combination wrenches. Nothing special about them, but before owning them I'd have never bought a set at a normal price, and I love having them.
M_George
Well-known member
deberly12
Well-known member
I couldn't narrow it down to one.
12in sliding compound miter saw is awesome
4 ton floor jack is the best I have ever used.
I love the 4 ton bottle Jacks
Their ratchets are really good. I like the one that comes with 20 sockets. I just hate that the sockets are 12 pt.
The belt sander works good.
Their impact sockets are awesome.
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12in sliding compound miter saw is awesome
4 ton floor jack is the best I have ever used.
I love the 4 ton bottle Jacks
Their ratchets are really good. I like the one that comes with 20 sockets. I just hate that the sockets are 12 pt.
The belt sander works good.
Their impact sockets are awesome.
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dsgreen3
Well-known member
5 drawer tool cart for me I have one at work and am getting one for home.
I have two of the three ton jacks... I first picked up the regular one, then had to get a low profile model to get under the GF's Volvo.
I like the new pro ratchets. I'd like the new composite ratchets more if they weren't QR...
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I like the new pro ratchets. I'd like the new composite ratchets more if they weren't QR...
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
1/2 extendable ratchet (62311) It is amazing and pretty much my go to ratchet when when needing 1/2 drive.
Being able to dial in leverage in areas where you can't fit a breaker bar is a lifesaver. It's the only ratchet I use in wheel wells and tight areas that have really stuck fasteners
Being able to dial in leverage in areas where you can't fit a breaker bar is a lifesaver. It's the only ratchet I use in wheel wells and tight areas that have really stuck fasteners
stonesfan68
Well-known member
I like their Ultrasonic Cleaner.
driftpin
Well-known member
#42204 4-1/2" angle grinder, Chicage Electric orange-case, after probably 10 years of use, the pressed steel fan has loosened on the splines, and after trying to stake it tight a couple of times, I may try spot-welding it to the shaft, to see if I can get some more use out of it. Really useful, I probably use it more as a cut-off tool than a grinder, but it does both for as-long as you can hold it. I have to take a break before it does.
1-9/16 inch variable speed rotary hammer, SDS-MAX, Chicago Electric, used it to save $1500 on demoing two bathrooms down to the bare walls, studs/CBS block; and the bare floor joists after removing a masonry floorpan pour and ceramic tiles. When I finally snapped the 4 inch spade bit, I replaced the bit with a Bosch spade bit to finish the bathrooms, and it's still working. I bought the assortment of differently-shaped tips and the set of drill bits too, which all work OK.
The metal digital caliper, think it's 6 inches, I use a US General dial-gauge vernier caliper for use when I don't need the thousandths-readout, but when I have to get more-accurate, it's the metal digital caliper gauge.
Velcro straps with the slot in them, at one end, for looping around a cord, and then fastening the folded/looped cord, in various lengths. I use them to keep my tools' cords untangled.
1-9/16 inch variable speed rotary hammer, SDS-MAX, Chicago Electric, used it to save $1500 on demoing two bathrooms down to the bare walls, studs/CBS block; and the bare floor joists after removing a masonry floorpan pour and ceramic tiles. When I finally snapped the 4 inch spade bit, I replaced the bit with a Bosch spade bit to finish the bathrooms, and it's still working. I bought the assortment of differently-shaped tips and the set of drill bits too, which all work OK.
The metal digital caliper, think it's 6 inches, I use a US General dial-gauge vernier caliper for use when I don't need the thousandths-readout, but when I have to get more-accurate, it's the metal digital caliper gauge.
Velcro straps with the slot in them, at one end, for looping around a cord, and then fastening the folded/looped cord, in various lengths. I use them to keep my tools' cords untangled.
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James-W
Well-known member
I get the 7 mil for me to use, the wife and daughters like the 5 mil type for painting their little ornaments and other stuff like that.
mfs54729
Well-known member
The free magnetic parts holders. I have them all over the place. They really come in handy when I'm taking something apart and don't want to lose nut/bolts/screws/etc.
Coach James
Well-known member
Most used would be the blue 5mil nitrile gloves. My employees go through at least 3 boxes a month and they have always held up fine. I usually buy 20 boxes at a time when they go on sale.
I don't have a favorite HF tool, but my top 5 list would be:
1. 60372 angle grinder. I have put many hours on 2 of them and they're still going.
2. 44" roll around
3. P. Pro impact sockets.
4. Long pattern combo wrenches. I've done a lot of suspension work with them, including using a rubber mallet and zero problems.
5. The Chicago Electric SDS max rotary hammer. Many holes drilled with zero problems.
Coach
I don't have a favorite HF tool, but my top 5 list would be:
1. 60372 angle grinder. I have put many hours on 2 of them and they're still going.
2. 44" roll around
3. P. Pro impact sockets.
4. Long pattern combo wrenches. I've done a lot of suspension work with them, including using a rubber mallet and zero problems.
5. The Chicago Electric SDS max rotary hammer. Many holes drilled with zero problems.
Coach
bcradio
Well-known member
Agree! I hated mine and returned it because of the same reasons.
My favorite HF tool/item would have to be the 5 drawer red service cart.
EDIT: Another one I can't stand is the 1/2" extendable ratchet. It has been terrible for me. Just about everything else has been great for me though.
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This is a very useful thread for me at the moment. I am heading back to the US for about four days. I might be able to get to a HF and am looking at a few things I can pick up, and get back in my suitcase. I can't access the website from Germany without a VPN so I can't even see what tools HF carries. I may try to hit Home Depot or Lowes also if I get a chance.
I plan on taking a look at the following
1. Long pattern wrenches
2. extendable 1/2 ratchet
3. 3/8" composite ratchet
4. Pitt Pro Sockets for my travel set (I already have a full set of impacts and they are too heavy for the suitcase)
5. 25" Breaker Bar
Any other suggestions to check out? I would love to get the tool cart of 44" tool chest but obviously can't transport them back. I don't think I can bring back any battery powered items either. Does HF stock most items in the store or some online only? I've never set foot in a HF before, just Sears and the box stores. Thanks.
I plan on taking a look at the following
1. Long pattern wrenches
2. extendable 1/2 ratchet
3. 3/8" composite ratchet
4. Pitt Pro Sockets for my travel set (I already have a full set of impacts and they are too heavy for the suitcase)
5. 25" Breaker Bar
Any other suggestions to check out? I would love to get the tool cart of 44" tool chest but obviously can't transport them back. I don't think I can bring back any battery powered items either. Does HF stock most items in the store or some online only? I've never set foot in a HF before, just Sears and the box stores. Thanks.
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4-ton Heavy Duty Floor Jack has been great, though is pretty tall. Doesn't fit under my GF's Olds Aurora without some trickery.
The little 4 piece orange pick sets are great for making custom tools. I've made some special pin tools for the various types of ECM connectors we use at work. TE wants 80$ for a little piece of plastic with a metal spike? HF to the rescue. The actual picks themselves are very strong too, I've ground them down incredibly thin and none have broken yet.
Ultrasonic cleaner is decent but not spectacular. It definitely works though, but might need a few runs to clean a carb.
I have the HF Kreg Jig set and it was quite a bit cheaper than the Kreg equivalent system and I think the actual tool is nicer than the Kreg version. Was able to use a 25% off coupon on it and that made it a sweet deal.
Pittsburgh Pro ratchets are seriously nice, especially for how cheap they are. They're also pretty strong too, I abused the dang out of a 1/2" one and the forks spread just a bit, I was half expecting the drive end to snap off. I used it when my Milwaukee 2763 couldn't take off a bolt.
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I also really like the little assortments of everything in the plastic boxes. Eventually I'll probably have all of them as the needs arise. Pretty handy to have lying around.
The little 4 piece orange pick sets are great for making custom tools. I've made some special pin tools for the various types of ECM connectors we use at work. TE wants 80$ for a little piece of plastic with a metal spike? HF to the rescue. The actual picks themselves are very strong too, I've ground them down incredibly thin and none have broken yet.
Ultrasonic cleaner is decent but not spectacular. It definitely works though, but might need a few runs to clean a carb.
I have the HF Kreg Jig set and it was quite a bit cheaper than the Kreg equivalent system and I think the actual tool is nicer than the Kreg version. Was able to use a 25% off coupon on it and that made it a sweet deal.
Pittsburgh Pro ratchets are seriously nice, especially for how cheap they are. They're also pretty strong too, I abused the dang out of a 1/2" one and the forks spread just a bit, I was half expecting the drive end to snap off. I used it when my Milwaukee 2763 couldn't take off a bolt.
.I also really like the little assortments of everything in the plastic boxes. Eventually I'll probably have all of them as the needs arise. Pretty handy to have lying around.
dodge610
Well-known member
I grab there zip ties when i go in. Also have there ultrasonic cleaner with coupon it was a decent deal. And there composite ratchets are pretty nice i my book.
timothylockhart
Well-known member
Would this be the same as the long flex 3/8 they have or would this still fit an alternate use for some Reason? Thanks
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You guys aren't talking about this one are you?
https://www.harborfreight.com/t-bar-with-3-8-eighth-inch-flexible-ratchet-98484.html
View media item 73056
I've always wanted to buy it and I know some day I will. It looks so weird and I have no idea what I would use it for but it looks like one of those, in 10 years, you go "Hey... I've got an idea" and it saves the day and pays for itself.
timothylockhart
Well-known member
This one I believe
https://m.harborfreight.com/14-in-3...t-67994.html?utm_referrer=direct/not provided
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fsae0607
Well-known member
I'll second the SDS Rotary Hammer Drill. I installed my pool fence last year with it. Not one hiccup.
TalonFE
Well-known member
That 3/8 in. Drive T-Bar With Flexible Ratchet dealio is goofy....so goofy that you can't imagine what good it could be. But for reaching down deep with little room to spare at an impossible angle(s), you'd be amazed....just wait until it goes on sale and whip out that coupon, fellas.
Brownsfan
Well-known member
This thing is the single greatest tool in HF in my opinion.
https://m.harborfreight.com/14-in-38-in-drive-long-reach-dual-flex-head-ratchet-67994.html
https://m.harborfreight.com/14-in-38-in-drive-long-reach-dual-flex-head-ratchet-67994.html
bcradio
Well-known member
jeeper46
Well-known member
Just about everything HF has is stocked in their stores (but they may be out of some things,of course)
Delusional
New member
- Joined
- Aug 12, 2015
- Messages
- 2
https://www.harborfreight.com/3-8-eighth-inch-heavy-duty-composite-ratchet-66313.html
I love these ratchets.
I love these ratchets.
The hf ratcheting double box end wrenches are awesome. The last 4 in the picture. I have used them everyday for almost 2 years. I hate to say it, but the action in the hf wrenches are smoother than the matco ones, which I paid 20x more for. HF doesn't make a 18x16mm double box end though.....
I also have the hf rear brake service kit which is awesome and well worth the money.
I also have the hf rear brake service kit which is awesome and well worth the money.Attachments
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wildbill23c
Well-known member
Harbor Freight stocks most of their items in the store, if its not at the store they're most likely just out of it and can order it and have it shipped to you.
The General Tool Chests are great, I love my 44". Got the bottom roller chest first and had it about a year and was given the top chest for Christmas, so I have both and they're awesome. They sit outside on an open carport and have held up great for 10 years, the drawers get a bit stiff to open in the winter, but other than that no issues with not being inside a nice climate controlled building. I'd love to get the end cabinets as well just to be able to store the more bulky items that don't fit in any of the drawers. Wouldn't mind having the new 72" model to put in my small shop but don't think it would fit through the door anyhow HAHA!!