Buying $500 Snap-On Tools vs $500 Harbor Freight Tools

Whether you are building a DIYer tool kit, a mechanic tool kit, or just looking for some basic tools to have for working on cars, finding what's right for you can be tough. Snap On makes some of the best tools you can buy, Harbor Freight makes some of the cheapest tools. So here is what $500 can buy with Snap On VS $500 Harbor Freight.
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Disclimer:
The content of this video is available for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for the professional advice of a mechanic who has personally inspected your vehicle, nor does it create a relationship of any kind between the Humble Mechanic and you. Every situation may be different, and the Humble Mechanic does not make any warranties, whether express or implied, as to the accuracy, fitness, or applicability of the information or automotive parts portrayed in this video to any project and makes no guarantee of results. The Humble Mechanic and any sponsors of this video will not be liable for any damages related to personal injury, property damage or loss of any kind that may result from the use or reliance on this video and/or any automotive parts represented in this video. You are using the information and automotive parts portrayed in this video solely at your own risk.

[@HumbleMechanic]

The last 2 years we have put together different tool boxes. In 2024, I will be doing more tool related videos. What do you recommend the budget be for "Building a Tool Kit UNDER $$$$$"?

[@nickguerra1905]

Habor freight all the way merry Christmas brother

[@mikehannigan848]

You should compare the value of yesterdays budget tools to todays and tomorrows. Seriously though, the amount of money snap on charges makes my blood boil.

[@ttano1117]

1000 seems reasonable for a home garage, but for a tech I'd say 15-2000

[@thenextgenfarmer3670]

Could you do like a 5000$ dollar setup with battery tools included

[@homeowneramateurhour4814]

Instead of a dollar amount, let’s twist this around. What does an amateur mechanic need to work on for an LS or Coyote based car? Basic maintenance and maybe some mods. A variation may be a classic muscle car (maint and mods) or restoration work. Assume we are dealing with rust.

[@manueltoro5996]

Honestly whenever i buy tools i follow Adam Savage's advice: if you aren't sure that you'll use a tool a lot, then buy an affordable one if that one breaks fron usage then you know that a high quality one is worth the investment, that advice has saved me a lot of money, especially in tools i might only once.

[@williamdon3442]

Makes sense

[@matthewa.3488]

bingo, have been using this logic for years

[@Zhcwu]

Still go with harbor freight, lifetime warranty if it breaks go back and get it replaced, for free..

[@hellnells176reviews4]

Den of tools was right when he said snap on Sucks 💩👎.

[@jeffgood6441]

Why do you need a high quality one when harbor freight has lifetime warranty

[@PhillyRacer121]

3 years in as a diesel mechanic. You hit the nail on the head. Value is more important than “brand”.

[@redpine8665]

Especially now. For example, some Milwaukee tools are great, some suck. DeWalt - some of their tools are really good - others not. Bosch- Same thing. You can't be brand loyal or you'll have some bum tools.

[@Tcorellis-j6d]

@@redpine8665well said. Every brand has hood and bad it’s more or less what works for you … if you spend less on a wrench set but it works for you and doesn’t break Who cares right

[@jeffgood6441]

Especially with alot off quality off brand products that are good too coming about

[@NoeHernandez-w7j]

​@@redpine8665in hand tools i have from the cheap harbor Freight ,con, Craftsman,tekton,gear wrench , SKY,bluepoint,matco,mactoo,l snap on but in battery tools My line is Milwaukee brand i use daylly

[@tuxmusicman]

I always say everything I have would be snap on if I could afford it. Lol. But harbor freight definitely has some good quality stuff if you get the right one.

[@Maroco918]

Ive formed my tool collection off of a modified version of "buy once cry once". Buy cheap first. Whatever breaks, thats when you buy onve cry once. Replace the broken tool with one of higher quality. This will help keep your bill low and your box full of quality tools. 13 year European tech here. My boxes have everything from old craftsman, Pittsburgh, snap on, matco, cornwell, tekton. Quality can be found in every brands lineup. Dont get in the trap of thinking only one brand is best.

[@HumbleMechanic]

That is similar to my strategy

[@Maroco918]

@@HumbleMechanic you're a legend for putting up content today! God bless and thanks for all the hard work!

[@Mrpancake72]

Totally I was thinking this as well. I'm more of a tinker at home and having some tool for the job is better than no tool at all. If you use it enough to break that's a time to replace it.

[@gregblau8082]

That's the philosophy I had building my tool collection. Moving to a euro shop after 11 years there were quite a few new tools I needed. I had a pretty good idea where to go cheap and what I needed better quality in though so it was a much more efficient process.

[@Maheralwan]

except snap on is never the answer to what's the best tool. check out project farm and you'll understand how mediocre all snap on tools are. there's a reason they always get compared to 2 dollar tools only

[@marvintroyer069]

I love Snap-on hand tools but it blows my mind that Snap-on thinks that imported blue point 1/4 inch socket set is worth $200+

[@drewdub8425]

The interest is included in the price when people pay it off weekly…

[@shadowopsairman1583]

And last i recall they have no warranty

[@BasedEMT1776]

The thing about it, all of Snap-On tools are imported. They're all made in the same factory. When Snap-On, MAC, and etc all used to be American metal in American foundries, it was 150% worth it. I still have some of my dad's tools that are like 80 years old that work absolutely phenomenally. Then I have had recent Snap-On and Mac stuff that broke within a couple years. Honestly just not worth it anymore, but in that same breath...Harbor Freight is starting to be proud of their stuff too. Like some of their ratchet sets and tools are approaching Snap-On and MAC prices and that's ridiculous. You don't go to Harbor Freight looking for ultra mega quality, let's be real. You go there to get some cheap tools that will hopefully last at least a little while.

[@drewdub8425]

@@BasedEMT1776feels bad man

[@billyboyd418]

@@BasedEMT1776what the heck are you talking about? Snap on still makes plenty of tools in the US. It’s listed on the website, power tools are made overseas like everything else. Maybe lay off the alcohol before spreading BS.

[@W0rp3D]

When I first started buying tools I bought all cheap, as stuff started to break I'd decide if I need to upgrade or just buy another cheap one, I'm only a home mechanic and tinkerer so most of my tools are mid range with a couple of cheap and a couple of expensive, all comes down to what you're going to ask of your tools

[@markgriz]

Buy cheap to start, replace the stuff that breaks with higher quality. It's stupid to pay top dollar for tools that rarely get used.

[@avguylyfe5837]

Exactly my thoughts. Your application would be different compared to others. I have cheaper electric ratchets that do the job. But when you wanna break nuts or something. Milwaukee would be wiser. Then I have cheap mini sanders that do the same job. There's no one way when it comes to it

[@drewdub8425]

Agreed. Using the right tool for the job will increase the longevity also

[@StefanAxelsson]

Same here. And I've figured that if I buy, as an example, ten cheap tools after some time I will have worn out three of them, and basically never used three. So I'll replace the broken ones with better equipment, and the unused ones is relegated to a "pile of stuff". This way, instead of buying 10 expensive items I have three nice ones I use often, six that is OK but I don't use enough to break/wear out. And some "extra material". And usually for less money in the end. Win:win in my book.

[@tsvw2007]

Good advise here ,but tools don't make the mechanic,I have pulled off some pretty involved repairs with cheap tools....

[@ericcherveny5195]

It would be crazy swinging by Harbor Freight on a weekend and seeing Charles there! I'd definitely have to say hi!

[@HumbleMechanic]

Id hope so!!!

[@maintprofi1077]

Of all the mechanics on you tube, the "humble mechanic" is the only one I've seen with a clean/organized shop.

[@jeffsmedley8400]

because he isnt a real mechanic

[@aaadamt964]

That 5 drawer cart is by far the best deal in tool storage in existence. Its perfect in my opinion. Itd be nice if the bottom was enclosed if you work somewhere stuff tends to walk off but I'd quit the second i was worried my stuff would get stolen.

[@outerfroggy1]

you can buy 2 and double stack them

[@kricketscreations4887]

HF makes the snap on all drawer box/cart hell I have that cart when first came out only in red 15+yrs old HF an still good

[@redneckgearheadgarage495]

Lmao, no they dont. The snap on one is made in ​algona iowa. @@kricketscreations4887

[@Red_Cp3]

honestly theirs no reason to buy any thing other than harbor freight for storage, their U.S General stuff is just as good for 10% of the price of snapon

[@dilboo]

Honestly im surprised you didnt walk off that strap on truck with a hat and a pat on the back for 500.

[@marcush4741]

No joke, I saw a dude at work yesterday in a snap on heated jacket. It was $650. The batteries didn't work anymore, and the snap on truck refused to warranty them after he ended up on a different driver's route.

[@jasonweishaupt1828]

$500 from Snap = screwdriver $500 from Harbor = whole store. 😂

[@TheOfficialOriginalChad]

The Snap ratcheting screwdriver was $80.

[@brodylewis6454]

@@TheOfficialOriginalChad 🤓

[@TheOfficialOriginalChad]

@@brodylewis6454 right. Because it’s funnier when it’s not true. Comedy 101, right?

[@jaycatenza4194]

@@TheOfficialOriginalChadhey guys! I found one. Here he is.

[@sheerwillsurvival2064]

This guy truly is a success story. Great technician who makes big bucks on KZbin. Great job and merry Christmas y’all

[@markm0000]

Eh. He’s making money but it’s not a huge amount.

[@sheerwillsurvival2064]

@@markm0000 it’s all good

[@MostGenericUser]

​@@markm0000more than we're making off KZbin lol

[@markm0000]

@@MostGenericUser I can say without a shadow of a doubt that I’ve profited off KZbin “Academy”. What I’ve learned has helped me do my job a hundred times better and I’ve been given the opportunity to get certifications way ahead of other guys. This will ultimately lead to a successful career and early retirement where I just work on my own projects for fun.

[@IanDeRanieri]

Making the medium bucks

[@hungryhungryhummer]

My best purchase ever was the Quinn 428 pc master mechanic set. $300 on black friday, $400 normally. 250 different really nice sockets, really nice screwdrivers, a ton of wrenches, 15 ratcheting wrenches, a lot of screwdriver bits, Allen’s and 3 different ratchets(that were ok but I threw them in the garbage and bought icons) I actually like the icon ratchets better than the snap ons. They just feel nice and clicky. And everything’s got that nice lifetime warranty.

[@LenWhalenX]

MAN, that's wild! I literally took my Icons back after using my Quinns from the 3 Master Socket sets! Haha

[@EverydayCars]

This was great content. I love how you put don’t go into debt over tools. I have also seen a lot of guys buy a $10,000 Snap-On tool box just to say they have one.

[@HumbleMechanic]

Yep. Me too. Or fed a line of bull by some one

[@ericcollins8794]

That's doing way too much frfr

[@rsage_]

Cool vid. Only thing worth noting is that buying the best tools for your budget, regardless of brand, is a good philisophy...but, when it comes to power tools, then you're actually getting into an ecosystem. Meaning, as soon as you buy a cheap Ryobi tool, then either you stay married to Ryobi or you end up having more than one battery system. In that case, I'd recommend getting the ecosystem you want at the beginning. I chose Milwaukee and now I can stay in that ecosystem without having a ton of different batteries/chargers.

[@tomhejda6450]

You can always sell a set of compatible tools and upgrade. And after all, if you started cheap, you haven't invested much, and whatever you saved on interest from the guy next door gives you a cushion for that. But I agree that sticking to one battery system is the key!

[@HannahFortalezza]

With 3D printing available you can get adaptors to use batteries from other brands. It can be an option to consider if you have lots of batteries for one but there’s a good deal on another brand of tool

[@PantyDropper69]

You are 100% not restricted. Adapters existf if you wait for holiday sales generally you can get batteries and tools cheaper than the bare tool. Hell I have DeWalt, Milwaukee 12/18, Ryobi, Rigid, and even a Hart drill. I just wait for sales

[@rsage_]

You're right, you can 3D print or get adapters, but you'll still have issues with charging etc. My main point is that although tools are very inter-compatible, power tools aren't.@@HannahFortalezza

[@rsage_]

Barring the most expensive power tools, the upper echelon of tools are very comparable in price. Milwaukee/DeWalt/Makita... because of that, choosing one brand and trying to stick to it is much more convenient than only buying power tools based on price. @@PantyDropper69

[@camdenp23]

after spending 2000$ plus at harbor freight in the last month. starting out I can confirm harbor freight is one of the most fun stores to shop at. I've filled my garage of solid diy 3-4 times a year style tools for that. if your starting out learn with cheap tools. gets the job done. and you feel good having a fast built box full of stuff u may need.

[@Sk3tchyD]

Gear Wrench is probably the best value in hand tools today, giving a blanket score to complete brands.

[@waterloo123100]

That and Astro pneumatic

[@brianriggin4560]

Great video. HF tool storage options are the best deal around. Save your money on storage, spend the saving on the tools that count. Boxes are for show, tools make the dough.

[@threeputtpar6927]

That yellow Snap-On screwdriver, my uncle worked at the factor in TN when they did limited time NFL team screwdrivers for players and I was able to buy 3 Packers ones. I kept 1 and gave the other 2 to family as Christmas gifts. Still going strong 24 years later.

[@LathanM]

Best part of this video is the advice that brand loyalty should not be your goal. Pick the tool that works for you and screw everyone else's opinion. You are the one doing the work, not them.

[@nbrowser]

I've been a mechanic for well over 20 years now and seen a lot of young techs getting started but they buy tools they don't need to do the basics. Videos like this are vital to the new techs...that said I'm in the process of leaving an all makes/models shops here in western Canada and going to a MB/BMW speciality shop, might remove all the SAE stuff from the big toolbox, no need for it anymore.

[@DaroriDerEinzige]

In Germany, the employer will provide you the tools you need. So young folks don't have to get into debts to learn a trade. Plus, they often allow you to order Stuff for yourself via them so you pay less because they'll often get special offers by suppliers. With SnapOn&Co, you basically pay for the service that a truck comes around, not for the quality of the tools. In Europe/especially Germany there are regulations which dictates the tolerances and the forces a tool has to endure; means if you're a Professional you don't bother with stuff which isn't up to those standards anyways yet on the other side, Knipex or Hazet going above and beyond those standards to sell you stuff for a little bit more money. Hazet has Ratchets e.g. which go up to withstand 1000 Nm (3/8's), while SnapOn "strong ones" are rated for around 400 Nm; yet as I said, especially in the USA you pay for the service. So you can give them to the Truck and he will fix them for you. On the other hand, those 1000 Nm Ratchets cost you as an end consumer 80 Bucks, and Companies often get them for way less, and they hold up for several years anyway - While the cheapest 3/8 Ratchet from SnapOn costs around 140 Bucks here.

[@DaroriDerEinzige]

@@WhiteG60 But for the length of the course itself, they provide said tools for the pupils?

[@Masterchief0521]

my first socket set was an 8mm-16mm 3/8ths set I got for 5$ from Ace Hardware, still use it but I was more worried about the odd alternator change than a full engine teardown

[@mathehack1]

​@@DaroriDerEinzigeI only own one set of Kinipex pliers but they're about the only brand of pliers that I want to bother spending money on to replace my current Harbor Freight set. The design and hardness of the steel is next level. I'll have to check out Hazet, the German brands are really top notch for the price.

[@nonolabs]

First tool i ever purchased was a Stanley black wrench set from Sam's Club in 2001. It lasted forever until i lost it.

[@3vil3lvis]

It would be interesting to see you break down tools by jobs (Oil change, disc brakes, serpentine belt, head gasket, transmission, etc) . A starting mechanic can't afford all the tools and won't be expected to do every job.

[@luckky9530]

Here’s how I tool shop. I buy cheap-mid grade tools. If it gets used enough to break I will replace it with snap-on or mac.

[@oby-1607]

Amazed you were able to get to 4 things for $500 on the Snap-On truck. I would have thought one item and then finance the rest owing.

[@That_hondaguy]

I am a student and I get the snap on sep discount which is 50% off. Snap on is what I am buying mostly because it’s the same cost as craftsman

[@WhiteWolfArkis]

My favourite tip if you are new. This applies mainly to smaller hand tools, sockets, bits etc. Get some cheap stuff. If it breaks it means you are using it. Upgrade it for a better one. That way you won't end up buying thousands worth of expensive tools that you don't need.

[@ronaldjohnson1474]

I'm in my 70's. First tools (at 16) were USA-made Husky (irreplaceable today). Migrated to S-K (now a Chinese-owned company, too). Some Snappy, MAC, & others. HF is my go-to today.

[@bricegraham8256]

I like the Quinn Screwdrivers but my favorite are the Doyal screw drivers with the hammer point on the end. I've used the crap outta my flathead one. Unfortunately it's missing, I have a feeling one of my coworkers may have snagged it, however they usually don't steal so it's laying around somewhere.

[@MrJumper68]

I live in Denmark... we dont have any of the brand showen here. But the could be sold under another name. My first tools was cheap... to cheap. Got the green bosch. And most of it was crap. Now i got makita, bacho, knipex, blue bosch, bato..

[@MatchGrade08]

You probably had european tools. Now european tools have gotten slightly better since then. Any far away imported tools are probably going to be at a higher price so they got to be good value to begin with to have a chance at not being too over priced in Europe or just good compared to what is in Europe.

[@Xerthedragon]

Snap-On is a love-hate kind of thing. Some things I'll buy from them, but other things I just can't justify the price. My first tool truck purchase was a long-handle 3/8 flex head. I used to for almost everything for 6 years. On my last trip to the US I stopped at HF and picked up a similar long-handle 3/8 flex head from Icon, and honestly I've been using it daily since and I'm impressed at how good it has been working! I also picked up their US General 34" full bank service cart, and hauled it back to Canada in my Subaru. What a great box! For the price I paid, and the quality it is, I just couldn't imagine buying the Snap-On cart at all. I really wish we had HF in Canada!

[@humansvd3269]

The carts from Snap On aren't justifiable anymore.

[@Honeyman_115]

I’ve got pretty much only Icon tools and all I can say is they’ve been perfect for everything I need. Definitely recommend them to anyone who does more wrenching than the average person but doesn’t need to spend the insane price for Snap on

[@solocamo3654]

Having the tool in the first place to get the job done is all that matters. That is how Harbor freight got me started, and for the majority of tools they are still my go to. If I break anything or feel they aren't good enough, then I spend the money especially if it's a critical tool. They've come a long way with power tools, too but I typically spend a little extra more especially if you are going to be in a "family line" of batteries between tools.

[@Jimijam22]

Honestly I’ve been using the Quinn socket sets for a year now as a factory maintenance technician, my only issue I had was the 1/4 ratchet broke. Easy warranty replacement. But I did buy icon ratchets. No broken sockets yet. Icon and Quinn are both bang for your buck, and the lifetime warranties are super easy.

[@tj86xj]

All of these tools have their place. If I had to do it over again, I wouldn't have a Snap-On box and tools. I'd have an icon box filled with the best tools for a reasonable price. There would also be enough money left over to make REAL investments. Because yeah, tools are an investment.. just not a very good one!

[@Barbaratio]

Something someone told me, it's the tools that make the money, not the box. I'd buy Snap-On hand tools in a US general or Icon box. I do really like my ICON hand tools though, Milwaukee man for power tools though.

[@tj86xj]

@@Barbaratio Ehhhhh.. I've seen plenty of people with Snap-On tools that couldn't diagnose their way out of a hole. Anyone can open a tool truck line of credit.. these days I'd question their judgment for doing so

[@Barbaratio]

@@tj86xj I agree, I like cheap tools lol. But I buy some snapon things just cause they're nice. Large portion of my tools are ICON, Tekton, or Sunex or the likes.

[@shadowopsairman1583]

US General or Craftsman Box

[@tj86xj]

@@shadowopsairman1583 Yup.. those are good choices too. 15-20 years ago when I was buying the bulk of my stuff, the gap between affordable and professional tools was much wider. These days there are some great tool and box options for reasonable money

[@SenseiLlama]

I'm an involuntary mechanic. Harbor freight really hasn't ever done me wrong. When I need nice tools, I borrow my grandpa's.

[@reedroberts3998]

I definitely think the Quinn master technician set, I believe 428 piece, is a must have for anyone wanting to build out a new box. You could find it on sale typically for 299

[@NinetySix_95]

That's what I started with it's been great. Used the sockets every day for many months. Even used them in my Milwaukee impact. No problems. The only tools that broke in that kit are the flathead with the screw gripper, and the bit driver handle started spinning on the shaft. Don't really use them anyway. Other than that it's perfect. Don't skip sizes either

[@NinetySix_95]

I will say I never really got to use the ratches in that set. Immediately upgraded to flex head Pittsburgh pros and straight Tekton ratchets. Bought a Quinn straight 3/8 drive and it broke on the first use, but the same one in 1/4 drive is perfectly fine

[@TheRealEDK]

One thing I’d like to say For the same price the LTT screwdriver is leagues better in terms of bit storage and the ratchet in comparison to the snap-on. I own both.

[@_P0tat07_]

Another tip id like to add. Don’t get sucked into buying an entire set if you don’t need it. You end up paying for tools you may never use. (And if you do need it, you can always buy it individually later on down the road). This is useful when it comes to larger sockets and wrenches when the sets can get very expensive really quickly. Just grab the sizes you need and add to it later. Of course this is the best plan for snap on or other tool truck brands. There’s no real need to be money conscious at harbor freight😂

[@restaurantattheendofthegalaxy]

I spent 30 years working on air cooled Type I & IIs and plenty of mk i - mk iv golfs and such. Harbor Freight is fine as long as the tool has no moving parts and doesn’t have a plug. Their drills, impact drivers, dremel tools are not terrific, but their screwdrivers and wrenches & sockets are just fine. Their pliers admittedly have moving parts but are just fine also.

[@breakupgoogle]

Harbor freight is so great these days. it used to be really low quality, now the quality is great and so is the price.

[@averypless]

Overall I've been extremely happy with my Quinn tools from Harbor Freight. Best advice I've ever gotten is to buy cheap tools to see what actually gets used and if it breaks, upgrade it. But so far I haven't had anything fail after somewhat regular use over the past 2-3 years as a home mechanic

[@EliAngwin]

Can’t wait for all the Strap- On fanboys to show up.

[@joemumma6776]

Cant wait for all the china freight boys complaining about not being able to afford quality tools

[@ericcollins8794]

​@joemumma6776 let's see how you snap on fan boys still love them if they ever get sold

[@joemumma6776]

@andrewricci8710 cry about it poor boy. Stick to your Chinese tools wouldn’t want to hurt your pockets 🤣🤣🤣🤣.

[@gilbertalvarez6834]

@andrewricci8710weekly payments are for the newbies bro if your too broke to pay upfront change careers buddy 😂

[@hoffmanxgunnar]

@@joemumma6776 no need to waste money like that it’s just Stupid

[@Hcscornerstore]

When our lead mechanic starting buying tools off the trucks, no one gave him advice and so he racked up $25k in tools and now that im starting out hes helping me buy cheep tools so I dont go into debt like him. I recommend always talking too the veterans of your shop.

[@802Garage]

This isn't even maximum value optimizing. Some Snap-On tools may be worth it, but in many cases there are American made alternatives that are more affordable. Overall, if you are a home gamer or starting out, there's no way I'd recommend jumping straight to Snap-On. There are steps in between Harbor Freight and the tool trucks too. Gearwrench, Teng Tools, Japanese brands like Ko-ken and Tone, German brands like Hazet and Wiha, and more. Some good rules of thumb are definitely look up reviews of any tools, never buy the cheapest locking pliers, and friends don't let friends buy Matco. Matco doesn't make anything except their tool carts. Everything else is rebranded foreign made tools marked up like crazy.

[@jeffsmedley8400]

snap on doesnt make tools either

[@802Garage]

@@jeffsmedley8400 Incorrect. Snap-On does rebrand many of their tools, but Snap-On absolutely has their own factories.

[@S_F_U_L]

I've been using King Tony tools for over a decade and haven't had a problem with them. They're made in Taiwan but are made for mechanics and are high quality. They're not cheap but you get what you pay for.

[@COBRO98]

In my 21 years experience as a tech & having worked with hundreds of techs I can without a doubt say that 99% of the time when a tool breaks, it's because the person wielding it didn't know how to use it properly. You don't pull out a 3/8's ratchet to break loose a bolt or nut torqued to 80ftlbs+, you really shouldn't use a ratcheting mechanism to break things loose at all. My advice to all newcomers is to avoid expensive tools & their trucks. I can't tell you how many guys I've seen that will be paying debt off until they're 80 years old just for tools and boxes, the interest is never ending. (This applies for credit cards too kids..)

[@802Garage]

Totally agree. People who argue about lifetime warranties to justify 200-500% price increases are coping.

[@tt-rs1457]

I consent that.....my father always told, dont break it loose with a ratched. And you're absolutely right, that the weakniss of a 1/4" tool is very different to an 1/2"....but this is common sense.

[@cm.5023]

I learned this with my old school craftsman socket set. It was the first tool set I purchased after buying my first car after high school. I still have it and the 1/4" is still broken because sears wouldn't replace it. I have certainly broken Harbor freight tools as well, but it was never the tool's fault. Something not mentioned is lots of Harbor freight tools (like that hammer) also have a lifetime warranty. Walk in and walk out with a replacement and even if it didn't, you can get 5 hammers for the cost of that Snap-on.

[@D.c5-]

I forgot why I subscribed, I don’t watch any of your videos but i do enjoy the tool ones. especially the 1000 dollar tool box set up, I watched it and used it as a guide building my box. I’m just a diyer, so I stick to the cheap tools, upgrade as needed.

[@mackillian6254]

Love the videos intended to help out the little guy! I hope you and your family have a wonderful and safe holiday season!

[@queenelizabeth1926]

More about this Audi branded screwdriver !!!

[@BDJ4mTex]

Homeowner that owns 3 cars. Replaced full suspension on a small compact car and a pickup truck. Never had a harbor freight tool fail on me. If it does i would just buy better quality or analyze if I did something wrong

[@agustinjr.enriquez6238]

500 @ Snap On is a socket set and a 3/8 ratchet

[@tjkoenig1387]

Harbor freight is my go to. Honestly love quinn and icon

[@khaul]

When I started as a diesel mechanic I spent $500 at harbor freight. I was able to get all basic hand tools, a small set ratcheting of sae and metric wrenches, 1/2 impact socket set, 1/2 ratchet, 4 drawer cart on sale, luckily my work provided an apprentice set

[@theronwolf3296]

Some good advice. I'm a home garage mechanic, so I'm far less likely to wear out my tools than a working pro. I bought my HF floor jack almost 15 years ago, still working, but if I ran a shop, day in day out, the story might be different. Regarding the locking collet on the driver--it can make a big difference if you use impact drive thread taps because once you've cut the thread, you need to run the tap out in reverse. Without a locking collet, that's a pain.

[@theronwolf3296]

One more thing to think about. Cheaper sockets and wrenches often fit more loosely on a bolt head. That can be a problem with a stubborn bolt.

[@Ldorado95]

I’ve been a forklift technician for 2 years. I started with a lot of HF tools but have upgraded slowly. Most tools have lasted , the only ones that haven’t are the Quinn screwdriver (grips tore off) Pittsburg pry bar (handle chipped and cracked) hex/Allen bits 3/8 drive (twisted bits) and I’m not crazy about my short 1/2 drive ICON impact socket’s because it skips 24mm and I need that very often. Other than that my pliers and hammers are still in my box. Not the best but they get the job done.

[@steveheist6426]

Could you not get a different 1/2 drive socket for the 24mm that works with the ICON?

[@jthomos21]

The first tool purchased was a sweet craftsman, 200 or so piece mechanics set back in 1988. I still have that set, and they work great.

[@IanDeRanieri]

When I turned wrenches in college, I asked for Sears gift cards so I could stock up on their kits. I had Craftsman EVERYTHING. One time I was removing an oil drain plug from some old Honda and it was stuck in there good. I tried with my craftsman wrenches for a few minutes with no success. The master tech handed me his snap-on wrench and it came right off. Then I started buying snap on for all the basics. Sometimes it’s worth the money.

[@Ski_3_p_o]

Went to college, still didn’t understand leverage…

[@yousefalmarhoon8789]

I have a mix between Husky, Gear-wrench, Milwaukee, & knepix , I like them all, and I would dare to say “never thought I would like the Gear-wrench”, but they have some really good quality tools as well as some craps like all other brands, since the all round brand was never a thing and will never be

[@skate166]

I'm impressed with how much stuff you got from harbor freight

[@lovetolearn5253]

Ill take the snap on tools unless i had no other choice. I started of thinking of buying cheap tools to save a buck. It ended up costing me in time. Now most hand tools are snap on and some matco,otc,lang, lisle

[@MatchGrade08]

Sounds like you spent alot on cheap tools and alot on very middle of the road tools. Reviews tend to be a lot more important than name now that most brands lost their good name and quality. The tools really depend on the job. Expensive electronic tools maybe. Expensive end wrench? I would look for the next step up and skip to impact sockets. If you need something that doesnt break big sets for the simple tool types from husky and other middle brands work if you can find them. If you cant find a good deal you should look for a good deal on the next step up. There are some tools everyone is just going to have but if its the tool you use the most that should be the good one. Good everything works if you want to do everything but if your budget is getting closer to making a labratory or machine shop than being a normal mechanic who is just getting things to spec you missing out on what could be.

[@rickhammar1636]

Is that blue point set made in Taiwan? I am not a pro,I'm just a diy'er but I like snap on tools. I don't have very many but the ones I have I really like. I think IF the blue point set is made in Taiwan that's not really a fair comparison. Not much reason to buy made in Taiwan stuff off a truck, but that's my humble opinion. Edit: I made this comment before you addressed the blue point being made I Taiwan. I'm glad you pointed that out.

[@groovygannon]

I would always recommend all apprentice techs just get anything to get going. Cheap box. Cheap tools. Then after you get started get a good ratchet. Doesn't have to snap on but a good tool that gets your work done. Get air tools over fancy electric tools and if you want fancy electric Milwaukee 12v is great. But do not finance tools. The interest rate is so high. Then one day when everyone at work suddenly starts buying big fancy tool truck boxes buy one of their used ones they traded in from the tool guy before he even loads it up. Sometimes they even give the trade ins away.

[@laalaa99stl]

I feel like this video should have come out _before_ Christmas 😂

[@edms3656]

When working at a dealership i saw tons of HF tools in the boxes of the main shop techs, and alot more snapon stuff in the express lube guys box, What i was told by some main techs is that if you ever have a tool break, regardless of brand, its best to be able to get a replacement during a lunch break instead of waiting for the truck to come back next week.

[@lolly166541]

I've always and always will do it in one way - I first buy budget and the tools that get heavily used (and therefore wear out fast) get replaced with a quality part. No need to buy Snap-On, Wera, Knipex, Wiha, Stahlwille etc if you use it like once every couple of moons :P Especially how good budget tools have become....

[@mcosta3810]

A very Merry Christmas to you, HumbleMechanic! I enjoyed this. If I did it over again, I might have taken EricTheCarGuy's advice to "buy the best hand tools you can afford." I was quite frugal back then. But that's definitely not a big regret! And I stayed out of tool debt. I got started with some Craftsman and a *lot* of Mastercraft (Canadian Tire brand, you'll find all over the place here in Canada) and barely a snapon name in sight on anything, except for that little pocket screwdriver! Hahaha. So when I wanted some SnapOn wrenches, it was hard to justify the cost when my Mastercraft ones just kept on getting the job done! Your video really reinforces that advice. All the best to you!

[@FourDollaRacing]

0:33 Snap On screwdriver sets are incredible .... well worth the money, and no comparison. Every other brand copied their design, for a reason.

[@Thecrazyvaclav]

Snap on adjustable wrenches and Allen keys are made in Spain by Bahco along with a few of their other tools, so if you can, buy bahco for 1/4 snap on price with the same quality

[@SpecialFX99]

I just bought the exact same tool cart, even green. Now in going crazy trying to figure out the best way to organize it

[@HumbleMechanic]

My advice, dont stress on it. Let it evolve over time.

[@johnnyblue4799]

I organized mine. Now I always open all the drawers when looking for something and it's usually in the last drawer.

[@SpecialFX99]

@@HumbleMechanic basically every time I use a tool I end up spending time moving something or adding/removing something from the box. One minute to get a screwdriver to tighten a loose screw then 15 minutes fiddling in the toolbox 😂

[@justinantonius2823]

Should show $500 worth of Blue point tools they're really good for the money

[@gawddangthatsmoist2251]

I'm an idiot but atleast I've never been stupid enough to buy Snap On

[@billiam247]

I have that exact cart (color too!) and have no complaints, especially for the money.

[@TheRealPlato]

inspired by project farm my hammer tests would be: - center of gravity (distance from end) - haft circumference just below that where you hold it - rest the head on a partially driven nail and measure the pulling force where it starts to slip - can it withstand a few dozen blows at reasonable maximum real life force? that one needs a jig for consistency - can it pry a nail out whose head is 1/32" clear of the wood? 1/16" 1/8"? - drop test from 10' ladder - measure marring and any slop after the abuse

[@TheRealPlato]

set up ebay saved searches for new, used, cheap, whatever. You'll save more than 20% eventually. ebay's item not as described policy makes seller pay your return shipping, Amazon recently charged me for return shipping after sellers poor packaging caused shipping damage.

[@surviveitforbeginner]

I started with a 300 piece craftsman set, i still use all the sockets 15 years later. Do some research on harbor freight tools, if it has good reviews try it. I also bought used tools that had lifetime warranties knowing if it breaks I'll get a new one free. One of the best pieces of advise i have gotten was don't be a tool snob.

[@keithbussanich]

when getting your first hand tool set for your trade its simple. buy the cheapest tools possible. whatever breaks first you replace with the highest quality. whatever you touch the most in a day you buy the most comfortable.

[@GeraldWCarr]

Good idea to add wheels to the roll-cart! It gets old trying to move it around with cars and other stuff in the garage.

[@ferret19731]

I've had 2 carpal tunnel surgeries, and a tendinitis surgery on my right (dominate) hand, and trust me when I say while working on a major repair (a week in the garage rebuilding an engine) your wrist will thank you for having a high quality ratchet. I own a few each of SO, Craftsman, Icon, and a few old Kobalt ratchets, and if I grab any other than the SO, I'll know it within a few turns. The others are ok for this crippled body with quick jobs, but anything that'll take a while, SO it's the only way to go.

[@kmpaton]

Had Craftsman, Matco, Snap On and Mac. Finally settled on Wera (and some Hazet) for most of my tools ( their socket wrenches and screwdrivers are amazing) and slowly replacing my old stuff with their equivalents.

[@loganburnett677]

currently working on a v12 jag at the shop I’m at.. I’m lost on wiring that runs underneath the throttle actuator coils etc so looking forward to that tear down video 😂

[@HumbleMechanic]

Hahah won’t help with the wiring most of that was gone. But a fun and annoying engine

[@Troy_Built]

I was lucky enough to have a couple of guys to mentor me at my first job out of tech school. They insisted on me not spending a lot on tools. They told me just the basic hand tools to start with and borrow the rest from them. We try to do the same with the new guys now. We try to talk them out of spending a bunch because there is a very high likelihood they won't be doing this for long. A lot leave the field but most get fleet jobs or move to something like diesel or aviation where a lot of the tools are different. It also helps to have much better tools below the truck lines than there used to be.

[@just_your_localguard9612]

To be honest, I ditched cases, run rails and socket holders, alot more room, just my personal opinion.

[@kevinsiggins623]

A big consideration for me is how often I’ll actually use a tool. If I’m only going to use something once or twice a year I’ll generally go for something cheap that’ll get the job done. If it’s something I’ll use constantly then I’ll buy the highest quality one I can afford.

[@Jim-td5um]

I hate how no one talks about buying used tools. There’s soooo many deals to be had on fb or Craigslist.

[@MatchGrade08]

It is very area dependent. Also if everyone does it then you get more of the regular sellers and less good deals. Once you get to fb people are pretty desperate to get rid of stuff but not far enough into it to be an ebay seller. I think most people just throw away their stuff when they cant find someone to pass it on to.

[@EvlEgle]

Brother I use them bauer electric tools everyday, since they came out I only had 1 impact fail, and that was after 3 years of daily use. If you are starting in the industry, they are perfect, if you are a DIYer, really the only thing you will ever need.

[@35057]

I’ve been using that blue point 1/4” kit for 15 years and love it. I’ve also got a Sunnex 1/4” kit I’ve had for over 20 years that’s equally as good. So take that for what it is. Buy what you can afford, upgrade when you can afford to on stuff you need to work every single time. I buy cheap stuff if I don’t mind if it breaks.

[@ChiTownTx]

When starting out with tools I still think the Quinn 428 piece set is one of the best buys possible when it's on sale for 300 bucks. Decent tools, excellent bang for your buck and something you can build up from over the years.

[@christopherbell7561]

In the UK. For basic setup, halfords advanced 200 bit set. Lifetime warranty to. Screw drivers are rubbish mind though.

[@joshbrown1381]

I started wrenching budget. 10y in i’m boujie. I’m all about the snap on, cornwell and MAC. Each have certain things I prefer. Pick strategically when starting out. If you’re wrenching everyday, a nice ratchet or wrench makes all the difference.

[@eh567]

I'm not a pro, just a home owner that works on their cars, home projects, and small engine equipment. When I need a tool I almost always buy the Husky/Kobalt/HF tool for the job. If I end up using it a lot or I wear a tool out that means I use it enough to get a good one. Nothing wrong with fixing things on a budget.

[@CrossKartUSA]

I got a long handle 1/2 flex head ratchet, it was my first father's day gift the year my daughter was born. I don't use it much anymore, but I still cherish it

[@greyfox78569]

Tools rules to live by. Rule #1 Buy cheap first, and what ever you keep using, or breaking, buy that better next time. Rule #2 If you lose it before you break it, then go even cheaper next time, because quality is not the issue. Rule #3 If you win the lottery then buy Snap-On,..... if you can afford it.

[@johnnybraska8873]

Harbor freight hand tools are lifetime as well. Just have to walk in and exchange. They will break open a socket set to replace a broken one then sell the rest of it at a discount as an open box.

[@KyleHarrisonRedacted]

0:25 my first “tool” technically is just a screwdriver with some common bits packed into its handle. I upgraded that to a homeowners kit that had economy class hammers, screwdrivers, bits, and ratchets. But I don’t REALLY count those if I’m being honest. The first tool I bought that really set the addiction in, was a couple years ago for Father’s Day I bought me a Ryobi One+ kit with a 5.5” circular saw, impact and drill, jigsaw, and a couple batteries to get me started. Ever since that moment, I’ve been hooked. I’m now fixing cabinets, making furniture, fixing my truck, constructing sheds and dog houses, etc etc

[@ianschulze1461]

If someone judges me for using harbor freight stuff, I simply do not care.

[@HumbleMechanic]

This!

[@piaggiozip2001]

Can you please do a shop tour? Thanks!

[@bhepp344]

I always wanted to go in a snap on truck but, my god are they insane!! I can’t believe the prices and I can’t believe my mechanic friends spend this much!

[@EAADetailing]

I remember buying the red streamlight from the snapon truck. That was about 10 years ago and i still have it today, and the rechargeable battery is still perfect!

[@royleerobinson5]

Awesome video and great advice for the young mechanics. In construction we kinda have a different view on tools they are treated more like disposable consumables. Between theft and damage. The old timers would always say dont bring tools out here that you are afraid to loose.

[@johngassmann9581]

Merry Christmas, Charles! Thanks for all the great content this year.

[@91rss]

get the diamond encrusted phillips bits from the truck . The talon grips are coming out at HF also, for Sockets you can get the snap on sold by Caterpillar or look for Craftsman with a code of G1 or 2 etc, They are flank drive copies from when the patent ran out I heard. Cresent and Duralast made medium length wrenches vs the truck

[@davefeil1522]

You forgot the most important rule of tool buying. If you have to borrow it often, you need to buy it. (And I'll put the other important rule: Buy cheap first, if you use it so much you break it, go to the super nice one)

[@conanrdk]

As a DIYer, I most likely will not be finding myself buying Snapon. Really entertaining video! Thanks!