Harbor Freight Professional Pear Head Ratchets Review

[@seanfallo592]

As a single father I don't have $200+ to spend on a ratchet. Pittsburgh will have to do

[@CatusMaximus]

Yes indeed, you can get all eight of these ratchets $200 and they do have good price to Performance. There's a reason Harbor Freight has so many stores

[@w.d.m-1899]

They are professional quality.

[@bluesky-ud9wg]

Toyota Tech here. I've broken the 1/4" multiple times, overusing it, I know. I've broken the 1/4-3/8 extendable ratchet once. My 3/8 flex head is the best one I have. Lifetime warranty so I have doubles of each so I won't be down

[@fatharold1788]

for a home owner diy these are good but if you are in a shop get the snap on.

[@UFOGHOSTHUNTER]

I've had my 3/8 long handle flex for 5+ years! I love it!!

[@CatusMaximus]

Nice!

[@iFixJunk]

I have the 3/8" flex-head. My first one was problematic right out of the package, and so was its warranty replacement. I was excited when I first got it because I never had a handgrip on any of my ratchets. But the stupid pawl / selector always gets caught in a "neutral" position during use. Guess what? Same thing happens with my 18" x 1/2" Pittsburgh flex-head. Also, the flex joint screw loosens up on these over time. Not a fan.

[@z33tanner]

I work as a heavy line GM tech. I just recently picked up a 3/8 and 1/4 flex head pro series ratchet and I noticed the screws were completely loose from the factory. Tightened them up and within 3 days the 1/4 would just free spin in off setting on setting still worked. Never felt the ratchet break or used excess force it just stopped ratcheting when I went to use it that 3rd day. Returning them today, expected more but that's my findings.

[@megaman010391]

Anybody working in the heavy industry like tractors, diesel or big trucks in that area, they are definitely going to break ratchets and even breaker bars. I seen snap-on break too. I work on my own vehicles at home and I've had those ratchets for 4 or 5 years and they have held. It really depends on what you use it for.

[@Mexicanmike87]

I always hear people complain about the selector, I always felt like that's how the selector should be, kinda childish but leftie loosie righty tighty am I right? Haha

[@richb2229]

I really like these ratchets! Yes they have some issues but they inexpensive, strong and durable, and have a very low back drag. And if they break they are easily warranted. I keep them in my shed, my truck and anywhere I need something good but not too expensive, in case it gets damaged, lost or stolen. And he missed one of my favorite, the 1/2” drive extendable handle which I keep in each of my vehicles for changing tires. It’s a great tool bag ratchet! Especially with a 3/8” adapter.

[@skepticalmechanic]

Have used Harbor Freight ratchets for the last 4 years... every day use... absolutely no problems with any of them.... fabulous ratchets for the money... I can actually afford a mortgage with out paying a mortgage to Snap-Off...

[@craigdave3266]

They might be cheep but they don't lose value like snap on and the warranty is better

[@congaronbo]

I have the 1/2" flex head long handle and the low profile 1/4" ....very happy with both.

[@AutobahnDan]

a newsletter email from Harbor freight sent me to this video

[@donaldhollums3278]

I have the 3/8”, long-handle, flex-head. Still can’t get used to the backwards selector switch. It’s been good for the amount of use it’s gotten. As my business picks up and the ratchet gets used more frequently, that’ll be the test to its longevity. Look up Garnett tools and see the review he did on his Pittsburgh Pro 3/8”, long-handled, flex-head ratchet.

[@DiscordCriminal]

Started out with Pittsburgh now that I make snap on money I still use my Pittsburgh lol. I’ve had 0 problems from heavy daily use as a diesel mechanic at George bush intercontinental airport

[@atxgeckos2430]

I have 6 out of those 8 ratchets. I love these ratchets👏 I don't mind that the switch is on opposite sides. I love em! I just need the 1/2 inch flex head and the 1/4 flex head and I'll have all 8

[@jash6105]

The 1/4 inch flex is so amazing. I probably use that thing the most.

[@toddosterhout9866]

Those are good ratchets but you know what I hate? That selector is backwards of every ratchet I’ve ever known. As far as people saying that they break...I’d like to see how they are actually using them

[@CatusMaximus]

Yes I agree for the price their durability and operation is satisfactory. Ratchets are not breaker bars though it seems that's what they're used for quite often and then people wonder why they fail.

[@HoursFreeAOLsp]

It's their patent block against snap on and that's the only reason.

[@bestvidsdottk]

The Harbor Freight ratchet selector switch is not backwards, it is actually the correct way ALL ratchets should be. Left is off and right is on; that is the world standard.

[@z33tanner]

I had a 1/4 flex head ratchet stop working in off position when I went to use it within the first week. Did not ever feel it break or used excess force, maybe a manuafacter defect.

[@fike301]

@@CatusMaximus lifetime no questions warranty... HF give ya a new one no prob!

[@WhiskeyCowboy22]

I bought the 3/8s and 1/2 in drive also the flex heads and have used them a crap ton on my 1988 Dodge W100 build I am doing and have worked out for me. I seem to have these as my go to ratchets because the handles are comfortable and they are a very well made ratchets. 👍👍🔧🔧 I only put tools I trust in my tool box and for the money you cant go wrong.

[@CatusMaximus]

Thanks for your comments and it is true if they blow out you can just walk into a harbor freight and replace it

[@CrimFerret]

Those are 'good enough' ratchets for a lot of people and I'd say even for professional use. If I were earning a living with them, I might want a couple fine tooth ratchets for really tight areas, but otherwise, why not use those? Bolts and customers don't care what brand tool you're using to get the job done.

[@CatusMaximus]

Good Comment, Well Stated.

[@luis4210]

I saw a guy once comment that if he goes to a mechanic and doesn’t see snap on he will leave and go to a different shop

[@cbmech2563]

@@luis4210 And I'll show you an idiot.

[@urbanlumberjack]

These are fiber tooth than my craftsman wrenches. I bought a few of these to beat around and not care about if I lost them. My craftsmen has been sitting in the box for weeks.

[@mace422004]

@@luis4210 yes, the snap on in debt flat rate hack probably took the back seat out and cut a hole to change a fuel pump and got paid 3 or 4 hours for a 30 minute destruction resealed with silicone. The SOB that stripped cylinder 7 changing plugs in a hurry on my Mom's sienna and told her she had a blown head gasket and a bad motor for her 100k service spent 5 weeks in the hospital.

[@bobbrangan1256]

I have the long 3/8 flex head got it in 2016 ,I took it apart lost the two screws ,so it's only held in by the on off switch screw, I bin beating it up and this thing still works I love in

[@kenweller2032]

Just got the 3/8 swivel and the on/off is etched now. Nice vid as usual!

[@luis4210]

I would get 7 buddies plus me to go in and purchase them individually and use the 20 percent off coupon to get them super cheap lol

[@CatusMaximus]

Har

[@Bonezz024]

It's either that or go back 7 times. They're close enough for that to be my plan for now lol.

[@gnawrot]

@@Bonezz024 I go there several times to use that 20% coupon and stop by there with my wife and my children too. My oldest son talks only about Predator engine when there.

[@billwhite5853]

I have not seen the 20% coupon lately, I was wondering if they discontinued it

[@ca8281]

@@billwhite5853 unfortunately they did

[@L35inColorado]

I like your videos. I have four of these -- I love the flex 1/2" long ratchet.

[@CatusMaximus]

Glad you like them!

[@FinallyMe78]

I found these to be very good. I really like the long handle 3/8 flex head. It really gets into tight spaces.

[@CatusMaximus]

I agree for the price these rats it's really are pretty good especially considering other ratchet options and the price range.

[@tiffanyhwang1738]

Quantity over quality

[@thetubeschannel]

I think what was missing was showing actual usage. Many ppl including myself often complain that the swivel is too loose causing to lose the angel you're wrenching. Talk is good, action is better.

[@seerpakovski]

Imagine if that bundle of ratchets were all Snap-on, they would cost easily more than 1K

[@CatusMaximus]

Easley at full retail price

[@daveyboy8907]

Crazy prices and the funny thing is it's easier to return and get a new pittsbtjan A snap on..

[@jamesguralski5156]

Make sure you buy the 3\8 flex head with the long handle!

[@LEGOCAMARO]

I got the 1/2 flex head and put it on the breaker bar

[@CatusMaximus]

That's an excellent idea to put that on the breaker bar for a super extended handle Flex head ratchet

[@LEGOCAMARO]

Catus Maximus you have to drill the head for the bigger pin and add a washer so it’s not so loose but I love it. It’s kinda like the snap on torque wrench where you only get 30 some degrees of flex both ways

[@mikehough5717]

As an industrial mechanic I use 1/2 drive 99 percent of the time. I have Mac proto billings Williams and tekton and pittsburgh. The pittsburgh is the nicest to use of them all and holds up just fine

[@Bflo23]

With my 3/8" ratchet, I don't have the flat switch. I have the same round protruding switch on your 3/8" flex head ratchet. I guess they changed it from April 2018. I bought my 3/8" ratchet a couple days ago for $15.19 after 20% off coupon. I was really sold after I saw a couple youtube videos in torque testing. Very strong!

[@spikeshostagetv5935]

So umm, 3/8 1/4 1/2 all come in a straight and elbow Head? Thats good enough

[@DonBMW]

I have SK, GearWrench and Craftsman USA. While I really enjoy using those ratchets, there are some akward and tight locations (e.g sway bar bushings and end links) where this Harbor Freight ratchet just shines. I’ve had my HB 3/8 std length ratchet for 2 years with some regular weekend use and it looks and performs great still. Clean that handle of occasionally with some WD40 and it looks good as new.

[@pdaddy879]

The GearWrench xp120 is the best ratchet I've ever used excellent in tight areas with the 3 degree arc and they're as strong as an ox

[@narcissistinjurygiver2932]

i like these way better than my snap on. these are better and way cheaper. buy them and you will be happy. i use them every day professionally. i no longer use my snap on.

[@trankt54155]

They are so good looking but utilitywise, do you need that many?

[@t-bone6864]

The answer is yes.

[@johnlong5899]

I am not impressed with the backdrag compared to high end truck brands. Same goes for the selector switch which is backwards. But HF sells a lot of patterns you use once in a blue moon for a fraction of the price and I own practically every pattern they sell for this reason. They have gotten me out of a pinch on enough occasions they have more than paid for themselves after one use. They have also taught me which patterns I love most before spending big bucks on quality.

[@CatusMaximus]

I am surprised about the Back Drag comments as I always thought these ratchets were pretty light. I've always gotten used to ratchets with strong pawls which have huge Back Drag just because I always felt they were stronger. I have some clutch ratchets for situations when I need low back drag because they have virtually none but aren't strong enough for breaking bolts.

[@mrfrankcastle083]

Harbor Freight will contribute to the closing of Home Depot or Lowe's. I have a lot of tools that I'd never have if not for their low prices.

[@CatusMaximus]

Yes it allows people to get into tools for reasonable price and when they become insufficient then you may end up getting a few nice tools which is why I like them they encourage people to get more into tools

[@cbmech2563]

I had my tool box stolen when I was 65 and for a number of reasons I'm still working at 71. Without harbor Freight I would have been completely screwed.

[@yamsi12]

Maybe Lowes but Home Depot isn't going anywhere.

[@cbmech2563]

I don't think either one of them are going anywhere . Tools are such a small part of what they sell .

[@williamgill810]

Well said.

[@CatusMaximus]

Thank you.

[@Yettee0201]

great video of the line up, but theres one missing maybe it wasn't out when you made this but there is a double sided telescoping 3/8 and 1/4 ratchet also

[@Romi.Frentescu]

Got my coworkers looking at me funny at 3:01 lol

[@huawei4847]

Is it possible to buy a rebuild kit for these ratchets online? Thanks

[@CatusMaximus]

I'm not sure I've never seen a rebuild kit for these

[@yamsi12]

Best bet is to just exchange it for a new one at HF.

[@huawei4847]

Ok thanks guys.

[@jonteesdale18]

Yea they are lifetime warranty. Just take it back and get a new one (no questions asked) for free!

[@testbooster]

I just found your channel....when I saw your user name I LOL. That is the name of royalty.

[@beatroot943]

blue pointis made in Taiwan..

[@t-bone6864]

Your mom is made in taiwan.

[@beatroot943]

@@t-bone6864 nope canada actually nice try spaz

[@t-bone6864]

@@beatroot943 yea... thats what you think.

[@beatroot943]

oh boy ... telling me what i think you must be a women or a bitch lol

[@mikedambowic5862]

I OWN A 3/8 FLEXHEAD LONG AND LOVE IT ,KEEP IT IN MY ROAD BOX IN MY 87 MUSTANG😎

[@tinisterr]

I love my long 3/8 flex head ratchet. I have a 84 teeth regular length non flex craftsman ratchet. I’m debating on buying the 3/4 regular length flex head Pittsburgh pro series because I find that the long neck Pittsburgh ratchet is too long sometimes, anyone else have them both? Should I spend the $20?

[@trankt54155]

Another handsome review.

[@HuckBowlt]

When you consider the cost these are simply the best value on market as you made an accurate cost comparison they are good enough for any occasional user

[@CatusMaximus]

Thank you for your comment

[@thesnapper84]

I absolutely love my Pittsburgh 1/2” drive long handle flex head! It’s great for semi tight spaces that need that extra torque...(like removing a Nissan Titan starter) Apparently, the factory had Godzilla himself torque them puppies down ⬇️

[@CatusMaximus]

It's not called a Titan for nothing... :)

[@Pete391]

How hard is it to get a socket off these ratchets as I dont see any release button like the craftsman has..

[@CatusMaximus]

There are quick release and non quick-release type ratchets the hole through the center of the Anvil technically weeknd's a quick-release ratchet by a small amount these Harbor Freights are solid Anvil but do not have an excessive of a ball detent

[@jayflem3733]

How is the tooth count on the fixed head ratchets?

[@CatusMaximus]

All Pittsburgh Pro internals are the same for a given Drive size you can swap the flex head Parts with the straight handle Parts Etc I think it's 72

[@jayflem3733]

@@CatusMaximus thank you, do you know what the tooth count is for icon?

[@kristopherhasenbuhler5393]

3:01 my wife just asked me what the heck I'm watching😳 I had to prove my worth to her just now 😂

[@kjenks7161]

Kristopher Hasenbuhler 😂😂

[@chris18228]

$170 for all unless you’re using coupons

[@congaronbo]

Peanent 5 dollar off coupon on all of them... In some cases that's better than the 20 percent.

[@NutsandBoltsAuto]

3:00 haha xD i just had to.. Great review, btw

[@AZpatriot69.]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@mikevoebel4141]

How long ago did you purchase your non flexing ratchets with the different style selector switch? I haven’t seen that style in stores for a couple years now.

[@mikevoebel4141]

Catus Maximus, yeah, I figured. I don’t think they even offer that same style anymore which is a shame. The original selector switch was much higher quality.

[@CatusMaximus]

That happens a surprising number of times at Harbor Freight the initial release of a new product is nice quality and then the subsequent batches are notabli cheaper. That happened with the stubby Flex ratcheting box wrenches the first batch was really nice and then they really got cheap.

[@timsworkshop85]

Nice review man!

[@CatusMaximus]

Thank you.

[@nwjt]

With all these ratches you own I think your name must be CreditCardusMaximus

[@kevinbeck9459]

You have to take a loan out to buy them off the snap on truck

[@randygalbiati1943]

Snap on is made in Taiwan also

[@CatusMaximus]

Yes I realize many Snap-on tools and now made in Taiwan which makes their prices even less palatable

[@musicmakesmehi5075]

Bullsh!t, Show me a Snap On hand tool made in Taiwan? I think you mean Blue Point.

[@gnawrot]

@@musicmakesmehi5075 I have a Williams ratchet that is made in Taiwan. It would not surprise me that some Snap On tools are made in Taiwan. Tools made in Taiwan are pretty good and I would not hesitate to buy them.

[@davidelo5843]

Snap on price is 90 percent for the name ! I'll take Harbor Freights any day with a lifetime warranty !

[@gilraine1225]

i got tired of breaking these ratchets, bought a few used Snapon ratchets. expensive but cheaper then a broken finger when the ratchet breaks

[@CatusMaximus]

I agree with this comment as well if you really need your ratchets to work for you under tough conditions that's what expensive premium tools are meant for. I am curious if it was the ratchet mechanism or the square that has been failing on you. I recommend using the largest tool that will fit, such as a 1/2 inch Drive instead of 3/8 or 3/4 inch Drive instead of half inch. Even though the larger sizes are heavier and more cumbersome.

[@gilraine1225]

i broke pins and ratchet assemblies mostly. i do this for a living and will say i do abuse tools from time to time. that said, the money on high quality ratchets is something that most people should do. it is something you use all the time.

[@chrisjones6165]

@@gilraine1225 I use more wrenches and power tools my self. Do love me a dual 80 snap on but as a welder fabricator I don't use em daily and I grab power tools when I can.

[@johnnydoggs]

"The balls are nice" ew