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Harbor Freight is one of those stores that people either love or don’t get—until they walk in, spend $40, and walk out with three tools, a flashlight, and a tarp they didn’t know they needed. So what’s the deal? Why do DIYers, weekend warriors, and even pros keep going back?
Here’s what makes Harbor Freight kind of awesome:
1. It’s Cheap—In a Good Way
Harbor Freight’s claim to fame is budget-friendly pricing. If you need a tool but don’t want to spend hundreds, you can probably find a solid version here for a fraction of the cost. Perfect for occasional projects or if you’re just getting started. Geez we even bought a small trailer from them and modified it for a boat and it worked great for years!
2. Surprisingly Decent Quality (Depending on What You Buy)
No, you’re not getting heirloom-level gear—but not everything needs to be Snap-On or Milwaukee. Brands like Bauer, Hercules, and Icon are actually pretty solid for the price, and a lot of Harbor Freight’s hand tools now come with lifetime warranties. For casual users or folks on a budget, they often get the job done just fine.
3. Constant Coupons and Sales
Harbor Freight basically lives on deals. They rotate specials constantly, and their “Inside Track Club” gives early access to even deeper discounts. You almost never have to pay full price for anything.
4. Huge Selection
Need a pressure washer? A tarp? Zip ties, jack stands, a trailer hitch, or a solar panel kit? They’ve got it all—and usually more than one version at different price points.
5. It’s Great for Backup or “Beater” Tools
Let’s say you already own a fancy drill, but you want a second one for the job site or to keep in the garage. Harbor Freight is perfect for that kind of thing—tools you won’t cry over if they get lost or beat up.
6. Weirdly Fun to Walk Through
Even if you don’t need anything, it’s fun to browse. There’s something satisfying about rows of ratchet straps, bins of random fasteners, and a wall of power tools. You never know what you’ll find—or what you’ll suddenly realize you might need.
7. Upgrades Have Been Happening
In recent years, Harbor Freight has been stepping up its game. Their newer lines of tools (like Icon for mechanics or Hercules for power tools) are giving higher-end brands a real run for their money—often for much less.
So… What’s the Catch?
Like any discount store, you do need to be smart about what you’re buying. Some items are total winners (toolboxes, clamps, shop vacs, tarps, and lights), while others might be better off skipped. But if you like saving money and getting your hands dirty, Harbor Freight is kind of a no-brainer.
Here’s a handy list of the best things to buy at Harbor Freight—and a few items to think twice about before you toss them in your cart.
✅ Best Things to Buy at Harbor Freight
1. Tarps & Bungee Cords
Cheap, useful, and perfectly fine for covering stuff, hauling loads, or tossing in the trunk “just in case.” You’re not going to beat the price.
2. Clamps
From quick grips to C-clamps, their selection is solid and way cheaper than big-name brands. Great for woodworkers, hobbyists, or anyone with a garage.
3. Tool Storage
Their U.S. General toolboxes and carts are surprisingly well-made and beloved by mechanics and DIYers. Heavy-duty, smooth drawers, and way cheaper than Snap-On.
4. Flashlights & Work Lights
Super budget-friendly and surprisingly bright. Great for tossing in your glove box, tool bag, or around the house.
5. Jacks & Jack Stands
Harbor Freight has earned some redemption here—they now carry highly-rated Daytona floor jacks (very similar to higher-end models) and updated jack stands after earlier recalls. Solid value for garage work.
6. Small Hand Tools
Wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, socket sets—plenty come with lifetime warranties and hold up great for general use.
7. Angle Grinders & Corded Power Tools
If you’re not using them daily, Harbor Freight’s grinders, sanders, and drills (especially from Bauer or Hercules lines) are a great bang for your buck.
8. Shop Vacs & Blowers
Plenty of suction for basic cleanup and garage use. Not as fancy as some brands, but they get the job done.
9. Casters, Fasteners, and Misc. Hardware
Great for DIY carts, shop projects, and anything where you need extra nuts, bolts, or zip ties—cheap and reliable.
10. Disposable/Single-Use Stuff
Paint brushes, gloves, drop cloths, funnels—anything you only need once or twice is usually much cheaper here.
❌ Things to Skip (Or Be Cautious With)
1. Batteries
Their off-brand batteries tend to drain fast and don’t last as long as name brands. You’re better off getting these elsewhere.
2. Cordless Tool Batteries (Cheapest Tier)
While their Bauer and Hercules cordless tools are decent, avoid the ultra-budget cordless tools—battery life and power can be underwhelming.
3. Precision Measuring Tools
If you need ultra-accurate levels, calipers, or squares for woodworking or metalwork, consider investing in better-quality versions. Harbor Freight’s versions may not be precise enough.
4. Welding Gear
Basic gear is okay for casual use, but if you’re serious about welding, you’ll want higher-end safety and quality equipment.
5. Paint Sprayers
Some folks get good results, but these tend to be hit or miss and may clog easily. Worth it only if you’re doing light work and don’t mind tinkering with them.
