Best Bench Grinder? Let’s Settle This! Harbor Freight Bauer vs JET, Hercules, Rikon, Shop Fox, Delta

[@ProjectFarm]

Here’s the list of products reviewed. More details in the video description. Thank you! JET: amzn.to/3GdLu1F Shop Fox: amzn.to/3ChPf5d Rikon: amzn.to/3ijHnJs Delta: amzn.to/3Cm10Y6 WEN: amzn.to/3jTD604 SKIL: amzn.to/3vColRG Performance Tool: amzn.to/3ZbpTQk Hercules: Available at Harbor Freight Bauer: Available at Harbor Freight

[@davidsteinhour5562]

This man is single-handedly putting an entire industry in check. We must protect him

[@aaronfield7899]

I think you mean all industries.

[@Cobyc5150]

He's putting the fear in the big corporations!

[@not-a-raccoon]

Agreed.

[@DracoOmnia]

I watch and like every video even when I'm not really interested!

[@adamcullen7177]

@@DracoOmnia Absolutely

[@ramachandran8666]

This is by far the most trusted content I check before buying any shop or household tool. I am sure the manufacturers of these products envy or hate this channel for such thorough and "REAL IN USE" as well as "TORTURE" tests that consumers like me value. Even Consumer Reports don't have such innovative practical tests to compare such products most DIY and Shops around the world use. We the makers owe a lot of thanks and appreciate your passionate work Project Farm for us to make INFORMED DECISIONS

[@HansMaximum]

Man, the ethics of this guy is unparalleled. Imagine if he does wireless headphones and raycon is sponsoring him. The conflict of interest would be HUGE for us viewers. Sure, I bet he'd make a looooot of money, but us viewers trust him so much, that I think the viewership would tank.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks so much!

[@Oddman1980]

Not to mention PF is just more honest than Consumer Reports.

[@fredinit]

@@Oddman1980 And a lot more entertaining! 🙂

[@GunnysWrenches]

We were literally just talking about this in the shop this weekend, one of my son’s buddies was about to buy some oil and he was down to deciding between two brands and then was like “oh but can you pull up Project Farm in the office first ? I seen he did a video on it” and that made his decision easy. 👌 As always spot on & like how the video library is organized into different categories

[@farfignewgenfrackenheimer8865]

I speak on behalf of all who watch and support your channel - thank you for your meticulous well executed tests on things we all use and it is because of your hard work many of us choose what we spend our money on. Thank you and keep educating all of us.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you very much!

[@weirdowolfstudio5409]

@@ProjectFarm differential gear lube, video do you have one?

[@MrAdoh2010]

Yeah it's the best money saving quality improving on buying tools. Now I know to buy Hercules grinding wheels instead of something more expensive and I get the best.

[@R011T1DEROLL]

@@ProjectFarm I live in northern Ontario Canada.. temp just dropped below -30c... what about a cold oil start up with a see through piece like the one video you did. Can see what oil heats up the quickest etc. Thx brother! You're the best

[@airsmith006able]

You don't speak for me

[@bambambundy6]

Dude, I lost my 50 year old grinder in a move and haven't replaced it yet! Thank you for making a very difficult decision easier!!! You have a new subscriber!!

[@ProjectFarm]

You are welcome! Thanks for watching and subscribing!

[@hxhdfjifzirstc894]

Honestly, have you thought about buying the same grinder that you lost? I can make you a deal on it.

[@clarawesley7875]

Hello baby

[@GusFromDaysPast]

In the age of the Amazon affilate program that officially ruined the honest review, I appreciate your dedication to giving it to us straight. It would be interesting to see an endoscope review!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for the suggestion. Thanks for supporting the channel! I really appreciate it

[@JoshuaWilley]

I can just imagine all of the work you do to put all these tests together. Great job as always!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@trvman1]

Now, if I wasn't a CEO who just sits at my desk everyday counting my paycheck and bonus money :) I would send any new tool design or maybe even some existing ones to this guy and simply say, "Test it/them and let me know where we can make improvements". Nothing wrong with getting a paycheck for doing this as an INDEPENDENT quality control person. Just do a 1099 and if they don't like what your review is, no big deal. You aren't their employee. Employee's are far more likely to NOT speak up because they are employees and worried about their pay check.

[@nickw7619]

The time, money, and effort placed in to these videos is superb. You have saved me a bunch of money over the years doing these reviews. Thanks Todd!

[@ProjectFarm]

You are welcome!

[@additudeobx]

Join his Patreon. That helps make it happen.

[@deanherrington]

Have you paid him?

[@derkisdonenow6472]

I’m more impressed by the gadgets you make to test these products than how they stack up

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for sharing.

[@jalee6587]

He probably just returns them after testing if it didn't get destroyed.

[@JC-dt7jv]

​@jalee6587 no, he's been know to give them away.

[@jejeroy]

@@ProjectFarm can you please make a video about the testbench itself how you connect it and specs please ?

[@danlah1303]

Being so particular about making tests objective as possible and clearly calling out subjective judgments makes your subjective judgements much more valuable. Thank you!

[@ProjectFarm]

You are welcome! Thanks for supporting the channel! I really appreciate it!

[@GianmarioScotti]

Another top-notch review. You, sir, are an artist and an engineer all wrapped into a single, awesome entity.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you!

[@lewiemcneely9143]

2nd this!

[@Bdub1952]

We can always count on Todd for amazingly innovative testing/torture designs. Thanks again for all you do, Todd.

[@ProjectFarm]

You are welcome!

[@fredinit]

Underwriters Lab's, Consumer Reports, J.D.Power's - You call that a test? Here - hold my coffee.

[@spencelloyd]

Thanks for your hard work!

[@ProjectFarm]

You are welcome! Thanks for supporting the channel! I really appreciate it!

[@markc7551]

The innovative and comprehensive tests along with fantastic condensed content and editing make this an exceptionally valuable and informative channel. Thanks for all you do! Please keep up the great work.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you!

[@trajectoryunown]

His innovative testing methods are what really got me hooked. Frequently I find myself saying "how could that even be verified" then he comes in with some MacGyver-esque contraction.

[@mobrien888]

Really appreciate all you do Project Farm. Great testing. Any chance you could do a mini electric screwdriver test? There are so many of the pencil style screwdrivers.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you for the video idea!

[@allothernamesbutthis]

@@ProjectFarm try and get a panasonic to review if you do.

[@mikegraham7078]

@@ProjectFarm If you're testing precision electric screwdrivers then, for me, the most important thing to test is the accuracy of the torque setting. Tiny screws are easy to strip out if the driver isn't sensitive enough. My favourite is the M4 (yes, four volt) Milwaukee screwdriver #2101-22. It's a panel-builder's dream come true with its electronic torque system, but it's old and approaching obsolescence so maybe there is something as good or better out there.

[@lonestar8042]

He has already done one! kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5LPppWQfLlrm8U

[@peterbenjamin8351]

The Dewalt one is top notch. Used it on a lot of small electronics and it's amazing.

[@andreyka64]

This was surprisingly the most linear performance / dollar test. Pretty awesome.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for sharing!

[@5peciesunkn0wn]

Agreed. Usually it's like, the second or third cheapest out performing the most expensive one lol.

[@PerroneFord]

Only anomaly there being the poor eye shield on the top unit. That's a bad miss honestly.

[@pchilin68]

Thanks!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for supporting the channel! I really appreciate it!

[@dave_n8pu]

Having worked in tool sharpening for 12 years before retiring, the one thing I noticed was the grinding wheel wobble on start up on just about all of them. That would make it difficult to get a good edge on whatever was being sharpened. That was the first thing I did after getting my bench grinder from Harbor Freight, dressing the wheel where I was going to use it. Enjoyed your demonstration of the different grinders.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@1pcfred]

The shafts on these cheese whiz grinders just aren't very true. There's a shoulder the retaining washer sits on and it's usually all out of wack. These are not precision machines.

[@TechTimeWithEric]

When I was in need of a grinder I was looking at the WEN 6 inch on Amazon. I ended up catching the deal of a lifetime on a used JET 8 inch, and that thing has been a beast

[@ProjectFarm]

Nice!

[@wobblysauce]

Sometimes garage sales are the place to be, a Jet for $10.

[@TechTimeWithEric]

@@wobblysauce I had answered an ad for a miter saw, and it turned out the guy had a big workshop and was retiring and moving to Florida and was liquidating everything. The original $40 ended up costing me almost $2,000 because I bought a lot from him lol

[@Anonymous-it5jw]

@@TechTimeWithEric Exactly the correct thing to do.

[@wobblysauce]

Like most things... how am I going to transport it all.

[@drmarkintexas-400]

Thank you for sharing I've had a 10 inch Baldor with a 1HP motor since 2005. 🏆🤗🇺🇲🙏

[@ProjectFarm]

You're welcome!

[@treed5679]

Baldor makes a fantastic grinder but hard to swallow that initial cost for me, especially when I’ve had a 3/4hp harbor freight grinder I use in my daily work with a multi tool attachment and it’s still working after 5yrs.

[@jamesholland1727]

Have a Baldor that I bought in 79 - still working great it was worth the money

[@treed5679]

@@jamesholland1727 I love to hear that, I know they are made in USA also and I sure like that.

[@Garth2011]

@@jamesholland1727 Same here...Our 6" Baldor is painted Green from the old days 1970's...still works as it did when new. All USA made with quality bearings and motor. Cast iron on all parts except the tool rest.

[@markgoing6971]

Bought the hercules with coupon for a little over $100. Motor appears to be very good, but one of the wheels is impossible to balance. Works very well with felt wheels. One of the advantages of variable speed is that you can also find a "sweet spot" minimizing vibration. Would love to see a test of 8" grinder wheels. Thank you for your reviews!!

[@977Hlogger]

Always a pleasure to see your unbiased reviews and some of the creative and ingenious tests you come up with! By the way I just bought a Dewalt bench grinder a few weeks ago, so far so good…

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you! How do you like the DeWalt?

[@977Hlogger]

I really like it so far, it’s pretty heavy duty and seems to have decent power. I was just thinking if you could do a test on magnetic drills if you haven’t done one yet, I’m looking to add one to my arsenal of tools… your annular cutter test you did a few weeks ago would go hand in hand with mag drills!

[@rbalara31]

I also have the Dewalt. No complaints.

[@stauker.1960]

@@ProjectFarm they seem good, works for drill bit

[@zygmuntthecacaokakistocrat6589]

I've had a DeWalt grinder for nearly 8 years and it's like the ShopFox in build and accessory level (same factory?). The only thing I've changed was the switch, putting a red mushroom push-1/4 twist switch in place of the rocker switch.

[@jrwhite7916]

Your efforts do not go unnoticed! Your unbiased, creative, and "real world" testing are nothing short of amazing. Consumer Reports needs to get on board with you. They reach a whole lot of people and your insight would be a wonderful addition. As long as they don't let bureaucracy get in the way.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks so much!

[@briarpalek9254]

I have gotten Consumer Reports for many years, and they are not what they once were. I believe they have been corrupted by industry. Best reviews go to the highest bidder. This dude is golden to those of us who seek fair and honest reviews. We are much better served if he remains independent of the corporate machine.

[@jrwhite7916]

@@briarpalek9254 you are probably correct. I would just like to see his efforts reach a much larger audience. I stumbled on this channel by accident. There are countless people out there who could use this kind of insight.

[@briarpalek9254]

@@jrwhite7916 I understand your point and have to agree 👍

[@StubProductions]

Consumer Reports are a bunch of creeps

[@wjeiv]

I'm very appreciative of your balance of being scientifically accurate/consistent vs the law of diminishing returns (staying pragmatic and not going overboard). It's also been interesting to see how you've navigated the proliferation of products you need to review per video and balancing that with the breadth of tests while still being mindful of the video length. Very impressive. Now it's been a few years, I've noticed I'm using your videos like a library; joined the patreon as a result. Kudos!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for sharing!

[@paularnold6616]

I purchased a 6" Jet grinder over 20 years ago. I appreciate the cast tool rests. It still runs strong and quiet. I do wish it was bigger at times.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for the feedback.

[@mjremy2605]

No you don't. I bought an 8" Bauer bench grinder. It is dangerous and overkill for my sharpening needs. I wish I had a smaller one. The wheels are VERY VERY wobbly and I don't know how to balance them out. Seems a tough job. 6" is much more manageable.

[@REDBIRD-95]

I purchased my 6 inch "King" (Canadian company) bench grinder from Costco many years ago, still has the original grinding wheels on it. It has been a very good grinder, but takes forever to stop spinning after it is turned off. Thank you for the great video, Todd. I better get off the computer and do some snowblowing...again😜

[@ThatGuy-sd3zl]

We have a German made bench grinder, forgot the brand name but that thing is still working 30years later. Just recently the brake stopped working. When it worked it stopped in a few seconds.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for sharing

[@xippzap]

The best bench grinder you will ever find is a "Baldor" i own 3 of them (1) 3 phase 220 volt (1) single phase 220 volt and (1) 110-volt small bench grinder. All of these are 35 plus years old and still operate flawlessly. These have been in a family business for their entire life and used on an almost daily basis. If you find one at a sale buy it.

[@zylent8251]

@@ThatGuy-sd3zl Metabo?

[@Rudy97]

It should take long to stop, a sign of good quality bearings.

[@cherrycoke106]

I love to imagine what an absolute legend Todd is in his local hardware stores. The staff must get so excited every time he walks in!

[@twohedwlf]

Or they absolutely hate him. "You want 72 different drain snakes? I was just about to take a break for lunch!"

[@andersenzheng]

@@twohedwlf i would totally skip my lunch if some legend came in with the intention to torture test a whole product line up. Imagine being told a customer walks into your store, buying one of each drills, and he's gonna cut them in half

[@ryankorte8601]

I do often wonder what his local Harbor Frieght store thinks of him!

[@soulreaver019]

Todd aka "I know more than you".

[@LESLASLESLAS]

@@soulreaver019 don’t like it? Go read a book.

[@LemonySnicket-EUC]

The Jet appears to be 469.00 right now. I bought 2 of these 2 years ago and they get the job done for me. Great video Todd.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Thanks for the feedback.

[@frenchonion4595]

I always wondered if they were worth the money guess they are

[@tcp8946]

I have worked at or toured dozens and dozens of shops and I have never been to one that didn't have Jet grinders. Even the small mom pop shops I have seen spring for the extra cost. They are great. Only time I have seen one fail was when second shift left it on before turning out the lights so it ran for an entire weekend and the motor burned up.

[@erth2man]

If I'm thinking of buying a new tool or product I first check to see if you have done one of your excellent comparison tests. I love how you get right down to business without a two or three introduction like so many other KZbin videos.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@ThatJerkFromCali]

Best channel on youtube! No sponsors= Great useful content

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@zackphillips6648]

I would love to see a vintage baldor, Dayton, bd etc stack up against all these new ones. My favourite part about the old grinders is how quite and smooth they are.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for the suggestion.

[@bertgrau3934]

@@KreemieNewgatt Baldor sold out to ABB, a Swedish company, they still build Baldor motors though. They are pretty good motors, but they have some poor management practices.

[@keithyinger3326]

I have two different bench grinders that I use. One has a grinding wheel and a wire brush, and the other one has a grinding wheel and a cotton buffing wheel. The grinder with the buffing wheel is my grandfather's old craftsman. It turns on and gets up to full speed in about 2 seconds. I can lay into that buffing wheel and it doesn't bog down at all. I've leaned on it so hard it spins the wheel in the mount, but the motor is still going full speed. The other grinder is a harbor freight Central Machinery brand. It takes a little over 5 Seconds to get up to full speed. And even using the grinding wheel it's pretty easy to get it to slow down. I can lay into the grinding wheel on the old craftsman pretty hard and it just chugs along. Both are supposedly half horse motors, but that old craftsman half horse has been eating a lot more oats than the newer horse I think.

[@harindugamlath]

Exactly baldor grinders last a long time and smooth.

[@alghuraba]

Probably not relevant here. I think PF chooses products people can buy and use at most place. Specialty tools are a whole different category imo.

[@vapertrail6669]

Another great video and informative as usual. My Dremel tool is needing replacement and would love to see a rotary tool comparison if you are looking for a video idea. Thanks for all the hard work, time, and money you invest in doing this for us.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks and you are welcome! Thanks for the video idea.

[@tsloan2100]

Yes. This please.

[@rickbailey7183]

If the chuck just suddenly stopped moving but the motor still spins, you can replace the tubular style connector inside for a couple bucks. There’s a video on KZbin showing you how and what part to order, it’s really easy.

[@biomorphic]

Looks like a good idea.

[@johncooper4637]

@@ProjectFarm If you do, you might include Foredom.

[@marklucas5703]

Been a long-time viewer. I think I’ve watched all your videos. They’re just fantastic. I used to be a content development manager, and if your channel was around then, I would have pointed all my staff to it. You’ve managed to capture a perfect methodology for organic growth: you’ve started with solid, useful, well-organized content and kept at it, sticking to a proven methodology and the audience has found you. Some of my staff would always ask about quicker growth through what I referred to as “the dark arts” of social media: pumping up followers with false users, following/unfollowing strategies, paid reviews and sponsorships. I told them those things were harmful, because they muddy the picture of the genuine viewership, who are ultimately the only valuable subscribers. So, excellent job. Btw: would love to see a video on garage heaters, another on 100W solar panels, and another on Lithium car batteries.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Thanks for the video idea.

[@SgtStang]

Yes, protect him we must.

[@simulation993]

I second the video idea on garage heaters! that would be wonderful and extremely useful.

[@deanherrington]

Yeah, but have you and all your staff paid Todd?

[@Sammus7t]

@@deanherrington "...if your channel was around then, I would have pointed all my staff to it." Besides that, why would they?

[@ericb5447]

Solid video as always. Thanks for doing such good work comparing products.

[@ProjectFarm]

My pleasure!

[@braxtonnelson7422]

I got my Delta bench grinder almost 30 years ago when I caught it on a clearance sale for $4.00. It is still going strong now, and I use it mostly for sharpening lawnmower blades.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for sharing!

[@joshlindsay2639]

Great test, thanks. We all appreciate your time and hard work.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks and you are welcome!

[@TitaniumZX]

What a great review. You have some amazing testing methodology. I can only imagine the planning, testing and video editing involved. Thank you for keeping these reviews legit.

[@ProjectFarm]

My pleasure!

[@someyoungguy1923]

Excellent video as usual. Use the Jet grinder at work daily. It's gone up in price over the years. The best thing is the tool rest and gaurds are easily available. Our grinder at the shop is over 13 years old.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Thanks for the feedback.

[@Oddman1980]

So what you're saying is the JET grinder is actually the cheapest.

[@ryangross5446]

@@Oddman1980 The JET is definitely a buy once cry once type of tool. almost everything they make is like that, unbelievable quality and power, but not cheap. I used a 36 inch Jet bandsaw before and that thing was a beast. you could mill a 2ft diameter log into boards and it wouldnt bog down in the slightest.

[@SnackAttack77]

Thanks for usually including HF's Bauer line, I love those tools and it's always interesting to see how they compare to other brands

[@ProjectFarm]

You are welcome! Thanks for the feedback.

[@silver2000tj1]

Another great test, I can't tell you how many times I have looked for a product review on your youtube page before going to buy it. You are doing a phenomenal job of providing real-life, unbiased testing.... keep up the great work... your efforts don't go unnoticed!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks, will do!

[@BobBohner4851]

You’re amazingly great at designing and doing stress tests. Thanks so much

[@ProjectFarm]

You are so welcome!

[@del-boysnostalgiatvads7416]

You do the lawnmower huh, ???

[@adamgea]

I was literally shopping 8" bench grinders yesterday, and here is PF with all the answers to questions I hadn't even figured out how to ask. Excellent content!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@allinaday3526]

Get a belt sander instead, we used a beach grinder for years, the day we got a belt sander, we NEVER used the beach grinder again, belt sanders are far Superior in every way.

[@adamgea]

@Brandon Horst each tool has its place. A bench grinder with adjustable speed makes a great starting point for building out a 2x72. They can also use buffing wheels, whereas a belt sander is limited to abrasive actions only.

[@allinaday3526]

@@adamgea thats what i did with our beach grinder, put 2 buffing wheels on it

[@1pcfred]

Buy something decent used. What's available today is a joke. None of the bench grinders I own take any time to spin up at all. It's flip the switch and they're going full speed.

[@FirstLast-vr7es]

Your videos are an amazing resource. No more taking blind chances on a tool or relying on biased/purchased positive tool reviews. I can count on you giving us honest information. Thank you!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks and you are welcome!

[@Kanesgarage]

How long does it take you to put these videos together From beginning to end including editing, filming, etc? You put so much effort into each and every video you make. We appreciate it!

[@ProjectFarm]

Between 50 to 75 hours. Thanks!

[@donleamon8653]

I have several JET pieces including a RH tilt cabinet table saw and 16” surface planer. Referb’d an old horizontal metal cutting band saw with new parts from JET. No complaints with their stuff. Not sure what effects them purchasing Powermatic had on their stuff years ago had…

[@Kanesgarage]

@@ProjectFarm wow

[@ParchmentKH77ftw]

A little niche, but I'm very curious about backpack vacuums. They're a must have for working in confined or cluttered spaces, or where the terrain (stairs) makes it impractical to use a floor unit. Also a must have for containing dust and debris when doing a small punchlist in a finished home. I'd want to see how it performs hooked up to a router or planer, and compare performance of the wand on carpets vs solid flooring. dB would be really important too! Comfort wearing it is subjective but options for adjustment and hose length/accessory storage would be important to me.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you for the video idea!

[@robertlawrence9000]

Another great Project Farm showdown! These test methodologies are VERY IMPRESSIVE!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you!

[@ShopHumor]

That feeling you get when you’re catching up on old Project Farm videos and you see the Jet bench grinder you bought new almost 4 years ago for $290 smoking the competition. Man, your videos are damn good! Thanks!

[@ProjectFarm]

You are welcome! Thanks for sharing.

[@richardflagg3084]

Amazing how Todd keeps going week after week and I always look forward to it! Great testing in this one. Thank you for everything you do. Not surprised that the lower price point grinders looked very cheesey. It just reminds us all to do the research (and watch previous videos from this channel) and buy something decent. I think most would have some buyers remorse purchasing some of the cheaper offerings shown here.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@bertgrau3934]

That's not necessarily true, if someone only uses a bench grinder once in a while, no need to spend a lot of money for a really good grinder. A cheap one will do ok. Just my opinion, I use a good grinder with a wire brush, I use the wire brush more than the stone. It's very good for cleaning, or rust removal.

[@astruxium]

Fascinating tests! Usually the best performance for the money is in the mid range options, but that Jet grinder was an excellent machine and you'd definitely get what you pay for if you need a bulletproof bench grinder.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@michaellinner7772]

Do you actually have problems with people shooting at your grinders?

[@olliedee]

Love this channel, I honestly don't by anything PF has tested without checking wit him first, from tools to epoxy ect. Even bought a heated jacket on his say so, thanks man

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you very much! This means a lot to me!

[@terryboyer1342]

I want to see blondes vs brunette vs redheads. Tests should be very interesting!

[@olliedee]

@@ProjectFarm no problem, my sister in law asked me which epoxy she should use to fix an exercise step, I checked your videos before recommending one, I also bought a Stihl petrol chainsaw, my jacket, chop saw blade and rechargeable AA batteries based on your videos, although if I'm honest I was most likely going to buy the Stihl saw anyway but the rest was all on your say so, again Thank you

[@olliedee]

@@terryboyer1342 it's something I have tested myself extensively, and the results were Brunettes 🤣🤣

[@terryboyer1342]

@@olliedee 🤣👌

[@pomonabill220]

Great review! Based on what you presented, I went an bought the Hercules at my local HF. I was looking at the ShopFox as well as I wanted the variable speed, but I had a 25% off coupon for HF so that sealed the deal!!! I wanted to find out how the speed controller was working and I was VERY impressed!!! It isn't just a simple AC control but actually uses a dedicated AC motor speed controller integrated circuit with optical tachometer feedback!!!! They use a disk with 12 slots cut in it that is attached to the shaft of the motor, and an optical slot on the disk. The output from the optical slot is fed back to the controller IC and corrects for changes in speed, keeping the speed constant. So at 3590 RPM, the tach signal is 718 Hz or pulses per second. I was also able to re-adjust the minimum speed on my grinder to 1400 rpm for grinding carbide lathe cutters. The motor current is also monitored and is used for overcurrent/stall protection. There is also a soft start function on the IC that isn't being used for this grinder, but I changed that! The integrated circuit used for motor control is made by Telefunken and is part number U211B2. I was able to get a data sheet on the IC so I could understand how it was used. VERY good deal for a bench grinder, WITH the 25% off coupon, came in right at about $100!!!! I am guessing but the ShopFox might use the same speed control method, but the price was alot higher than I wanted to spend, plus the coupon for the Hercules! Thanks again for your work!

[@2mustange]

Is there a write up for that soft start function? Or anything out there for me to look into that?

[@mikeladuca289]

I have to admit I don't always watch your videos for the products tested. I admire your creativity when it comes to your test rigs. Awesome!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@xxxblanco]

I love how he just jumps right into it, no BS...keep it up brotha!!!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks, will do!

[@Gravattack]

Mate you always do the most incredibly well thought out tests. I think there are a lot of us who wished they'd come up with the same channel idea, but there is no way i'd have thought about even 1/4 of the tests you come up with. Well done

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks and you are welcome!

[@deanherrington]

Took the words right outta my brain.

[@critical-thought]

Nice to see Hercules in the lineup. I have used many of their tools over the last 3 years, in pretty harsh conditions. I am genuinely impressed with their cost/performance.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Thanks for sharing.

[@videodistro]

Good to know. Thanks.

[@sparksmcgee6641]

In the top tier of home building there is a lot of people doing the highest quality work in the WORLD, that had to use harbor freight to afford going out and starting their own business. If you can't afford to buy higher quality by the time you burn it out or break it, you need a business mentor to help you with pricing.

[@critical-thought]

@@sparksmcgee6641 My use case is very different. I am restoring untended land and its structures. I need adequate tools that will survive drops, dirt, and hard use for tasks for which they may not be intended. Despite the difficult environment, I have not yet had to replace any of the tools.

[@MAGAMAN]

The chinese slave labor market would like to thank you.

[@JFSX]

Not that I have room for one of these, I am glad I can count on the thorough testing you always do. Hope to see motorcycle/atv oil tests sometime!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you for the video idea!

[@archek521]

Excellent! I really like seeing how the Hercules and Bauer brands hold up to the competition. They're not well known, but seem to be performing well in many tests on this channel.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Thanks for the feedback.

[@nickcooper7179]

Love the channel, come here all the time to see what to buy. I was wondering if you could test off road jacks? I just saw Badlands from Harbor Freight released a jack in the style of the pro eagle for half the price and want to know if the build quality is comparable. Please keep it up, youre a hero to proffesionals and DIYers alike

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for the suggestion! Thanks for supporting the channel! I really appreciate it!

[@charlesemmer8856]

BTW, I noticed significant grinding wheel wobble for several of the grinders at start up. This can cause excess vibration of the grinder and the work surface. Good quality wheels usualy run true.

[@1pcfred]

It's not always the wheels. These grinders are machined so poorly the shoulder that holds the retaining washers on them often has a wobble to it. Plus the washers themselves are usually just stamped steel.

[@jacobgebman4666]

I'd be interested to see a video about saw horses. They're invaluable, and come in a wide range of designs and price tags! Love the content!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Thanks for the suggestion.

[@DarkLinkAD]

You build it on site.

[@weedmanwestvancouverbc9266]

@DarkLinkAD I did that when I was doing some Timber Framing. And I ended up with these huge heavy saw horses. The legs are mortised and tenoned into the thickness of the top and why you can't stack these, they are incredibly strong. 5 to 8 tons is my guess for mine.

[@weedmanwestvancouverbc9266]

@ProjectFarm you should also do a test of the various types of workmates, those little folding portable tables to work on. I was giving a Black & Decker 1 years ago I'll paint stained then bit dented but it served really well until I left it out in the rain a few times and the particle board top got ruined. I should have just made myself a new top out of three-quarter inch Baltic Birch, instead of tossing it out like garbage. Now I've got an all metal one from Lee Valley Tools that they got in as a test product but for some reason don't carry now

[@rivercress1042]

I love the cheap collapsible ones from Stanley

[@chubbyjohnson5480]

Another great video! I inherited a very old Delta grinder. I was lucky. I prefer it to these new ones.

[@ProjectFarm]

Nice!!

[@mothman-jz8ug]

So many things fall into the "not what they used to be" file. The first which came to mind is Remington firearms, but so many tools and machines fit that profile today.

[@1pcfred]

@@mothman-jz8ug my vintage Craftsman bench grinder says it is "1/4 HP" but if you wanted to you could push something into it pretty hard and it won't stall out.

[@BenCarling-z9l]

I am amazed at how he sets up these tests to cover a wide range of loads - power - noise, heat etc.. most thorough testing i have ever seen - keep up the great work !

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks, will do!

[@PINEappleandwhatknots]

Loved this one, I think I have better idea of which one to get. I would love to see a review on Drill presses and band saws. Portable ones. I see shop fox makes one that is an oscillating sander as well. Seems like more of a gimmick but would value your input on it.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Thanks for the suggestion.

[@ssnydess6787]

Excellent test design as always. I bought a Bauer several years ago and had problems with excessive wobbles in two grinders. I eventually settled on a Ryobe. Next time please include a wobble test and the Ryobe brand. Well Done!

[@robertbikers9502]

A few of the grinders have obviously bent shafts. You can see them on the startup tests.

[@TestECull]

17:00 Bench grinders are tools that are VERY easy to make yourself. I'd love to see you take the budget for the Jet grinder and use that to build your own, then test it the same way. I bet itt'l perform just fine.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for the suggestion.

[@bobgaylord8883]

Great test! You've helped me pick some well performing tools and saved me time & frustration with under achieving tools, at the same time. Thank you.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks and you are welcome! Glad to hear!

[@JELWwL6unE8V7iGB3]

If you do another test, I've often thought Baldor is a pretty good name in bench grinders. Of course, that company was recently sold, but it might be worth testing the new Jet versus a used Baldor that costs the same. Baileigh Industrial and Grizzly Industrial might be a couple of other brands worth testing. If I was going to have variable speed in a bench grinder, I'd probably get one with a nice simple three phase squirrel cage motor and then get a single phase to three phase variable frequency drive. In lower horsepowers, VFDs are quite economical these days, and they're very good at protecting the motors they operate.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for the suggestion.

[@DOPEXAMP]

Great content as always. It would be awesome to see a rigging video in the future: chainfalls, come-alongs, straps, and shackles.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for the suggestion.

[@deanherrington]

Hey Todd. As an aircraft owner I rely on the legendary Mike Busch (owner of Savvy Aviation), an A@P and IA mechanic, who has saved many hundreds of owners many zillions of dollars by preventing them from being defrauded by criminally unscrupulous (or just plain incompetent) aircraft mechanics all over the US. Mike has a KZbin channel also. Todd, you are a legend in the tool testing field, and I've made recommendations and my own purchases based on your incredible knowledge. Many thanks !!!!

[@ProjectFarm]

You are welcome! Thanks for sharing!

[@matt56849]

Might have been mentioned already, but there is a small mistake. The JET grinder is 5.5amp on 230V supply, it is 11amp on 115V supply. So compared to the other grinders, it makes sense why it has more power, it uses more than double the amperage. Great video though Todd!

[@417sparky]

I noticed that too!

[@Zetex2000]

You're not correct. The current does not equal power. Power, in watt, is Voltage*current in the basic form. If you reduce the voltage in half but increase the current in double, the power stays the same.

[@matt56849]

@@Zetex2000 You call me incorrect, but you obviously didn't comprehend what I wrote. I never said power = current. I was conveying that when looking at an equal voltage between grinders, the Jet has more than double the current and that DEFINITELY equals more than double the wattage. The "power" I was talking about, however, was the ability for it to grind compared to the other grinders.

[@417sparky]

@@matt56849 yup.

[@TheAruruu]

As a follow up to this video, I feel like you need to do a review of bench grinder replacement wheels, and maybe even wire bristle brushes. I've burned through so many wire bristle brushes, and never really considered if different brands might perform better or last longer. Also, it's great to see that "the expensive option" really can come out as the best performer sometimes. Not great for our wallets, but for our sanity.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for sharing!

[@christopherhaak9824]

Get a 3M cubitron wheel, there is nothing even close to the performance of them.

[@g.fortin3228]

Damn good testing.. You are the "consumer reports" for tools and it's appreciated. Wow I love Jet tools, but they don't give em' away ! Guess it depends if your using it often or just once in a while. Nice testing !

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@ISKLEMMI]

You really do have a video for every sort of tool I consider buying. I hope you enjoy this work, because you've helped countless people. Thank you!

[@ProjectFarm]

You are welcome!

[@jimbobxcityguy5338]

Would love to see a video on your life and how things in it led you to do these tests better then most I've seen. I wouldn't be surprised if you were raised on a farm. Keep up the good work.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for the suggestion.

[@timmturner]

The name says it all really.

[@RaffBuilding]

He's actually a Manhattan vascular surgeon. Just does these vids after work ;)

[@braddsn]

Every tool that I have bought since discovering this channel, is based on Todd's tests. And every single time, he hits the mark!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@smartperson325]

Great video I never really thought about how good bench grinders are but at the job sites I work at I always see Makida and DeWalt ones. Maybe make part 2 with more common brands like Makida, DeWalt, Milwaukee, Ryobi, Rigid and some other brands.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Thanks for the video idea.

[@MarkR874]

Thank you again for staying unsponsored and maintaining the integrity of your channel. It is really appreciated!

[@ProjectFarm]

You are welcome!

[@volvo09]

Awesome tests as usual! Love how you tested power using the alternator!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you!

[@ThatGuy-sd3zl]

Would be cool to see a comparison among chainsaw bar oils. Lubricity and viscosity when they’re hot and cold.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for the video idea.

[@jab100lochaber]

@@ProjectFarm ..and aging if left in saws used infrequently...some repair channels show the bio type oil thickens up & plug lines over time ...

[@ThatGuy-sd3zl]

@@jab100lochaber If you’re not using the saw a lot just drain it back into the container. Saws will typically leak when left standing.

[@EfficientRVer]

@@ProjectFarm Don't forget to include corn oil and canola oil. I use my chainsaw infrequently enough that it's a small extra cost to use those food oils and not care what plants and so forth that I get the oil on.

[@1pcfred]

Is it really that critical? As long as there's something on the bar you should be OK.

[@561inurface]

I feel like the longer time to complete stop should be considered good as it would imply a better rotating assembly in terms of friction and balance. Other than that great product review as usual!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks!

[@kao1969]

Video Suggestion - Small engine comparison. Many DIYers use 200cc to 400cc engines for projects such as log splitters, track sleds, go carts, etc... Would love to see the Predator vs DuroMax vs Honda, etc.... Torque, HP, RPM, Weight, Cold Starting, Electric start options, Hours of run time, Oil quality after hard use, Engine wear, Noise level, Ease of maintenance (spark plug, carburetor, etc..)

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for the suggestion.

[@kinja129]

Most of us don't want to buy a different brand for each electric tool (drill, impact, reciprocating, etc), would be really interesting to get a video compiling the results of the major brands to see which brand/battery system is the best as a whole package if you are starting fresh.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for the suggestion.

[@garycarpenter2932]

starting out, i say ryobi. as a retired remodeling contractor, who now makes jewelry boxes and what not out of my shop, i have a whole bunch of their stuff. they are very tuff, batteries last well, is it makita? no.. but about 1/4 the cost and still pretty impressive.

[@RileySantiago]

It seems like Milwaukee consistently scores high in his test

[@jetah50]

beauty about tools is you build them over time. wait for sales, figure out their real price vs what's posted on the website/sticker, etc.

[@mac24seven]

Simply one of the most valuable channels of its kind on KZbin. That horsepower lie detector test was very clever. Well done as always!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Thanks for the suggestion.

[@Billbobaker]

Isn't he amazing.

[@m.j.9627]

I was hoping to see a Craftsman and DeWalt in the lineup (same company now). Your fine comparison has left me thinking that the Harbor Freight brands will be the most common choice for those with home shops. I personally am sold on the Jet, but the price is cost prohibitive to most private consumers with limited budgets and small work spaces.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for the suggestion.

[@mjremy2605]

I am just blown away at the number of tests you did on these bench grinders. Nothing left to assume or guess. All scientifically tested and recorded, amazing! What a service to humanity this is. You are the best of the best. A huge thank you from California!❤ I have a Central Machinery Bench Grinder 8" from Harbor Freight. Brand new. I cannot get the wheels to balance out. Is this usable at all or my inexperience in truing wheels? I have no experience with bench grinders but desperately need one for polishing, sharpening blades, and removing rust. There is only so much I can do with my angle grinder which is heavy on my female slender wrists. I need some help from readers. Any advice?

[@Michael_Rega]

Would love to see a comparison of splitting mauls and axes (including the lever axe).

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you for the video idea!

[@johncuellar9136]

Awesome

[@pl3a5enophotoz]

Thanks project farm for testing my suggestion! It’s so cool to have this channel take our suggestions and scientifically test these products. I think I’m gonna go with the Hercules. Seems to be a good value cause I can’t afford the jet lol

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks! Thanks for suggesting it!

[@allthingsconsidered3211]

The unbiased legend himself!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you very much!

[@brothavicta2112]

Thank you for not wasting a single word on irrelevant information or unecessary intro content. I have subscribed.

[@GHOOGLEMALE]

Most telling test for me was the one where they responded to pressure applied - Its what annoys me most on my cheapo grinder - Great tests

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for sharing!

[@1pcfred]

These aren't snagging grinders. They're made for light bench grinding. A snagging grinder is what's used to remove sprues from castings. They typically have a 30" diameter wheel on them and they're around 15 HP or so. Yeah go ahead push as hard as you want.

[@jonathanpeterson3947]

I think it would be cool if you could do a video like this comparing those bench top belt/disc sander combo tools. There's a big price range of them and it would interesting to see cheap ones compared with some more expensive brands.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you for the video idea!

[@jimbusmaximus4624]

I'd love to see this as well!

[@FamTech.]

Yes i was just about to buy one thank you now i know which one to buy

[@aaa7189]

Shop Fox ??

[@ProjectFarm]

You're welcome!

[@FamTech.]

@@aaa7189 i think i wil

[@FamTech.]

@@ProjectFarm thank you

[@goatrope2946]

This channel exemplifies quality and integrity. Always impressive!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for supporting the channel! I really appreciate it!

[@eddiemason4316]

last year i bought a slightly older Delta grinder at a flea market, this thing was like cherry out of the box, i tested it right there and it worked perfectly and only paid $48 fer it. when i got home and looked up the original sale price it was north of $150 new. it's been a work horse.

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks for sharing!

[@annihilator4000]

Nothing like Project Farm to get me going on a Sunday morning!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you very much!

[@nredextreme8240]

Agreed

[@GOAT_GOATERSON]

It's evening here so I always look forward to it when I get home

[@texasjetman]

Thanks for another great non bias review, well done, im grateful for your efforts, I have never owned a JET tool but have heard nothing but good things about them

[@ProjectFarm]

Thanks and you are welcome!

[@mdtransmissionspecialties]

You make buying tools so much easier and for me as a shop owner and buying tools chemicals etc etc daily it seems. You definitely help my pocket along with my judgement so thank you for what you do.

[@ProjectFarm]

You are welcome!

[@rossb5593]

Oh boy with spring time coming, this is an absolute perfect test!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you!

[@hemansr3893]

Every Sunday I feel like a little kid, wondering what Todd is going to bring us this week!!!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you very much!

[@spirokaglis]

Incredible work! Can you please compare different Airless Paint sprayers! Brands like Graco 695 HiBoy, Titan 440, etc. Will be much appreciated. Thank you for your Content!

[@ProjectFarm]

Thank you for the video idea!

[@th3R0b0t]

The Graco 695 and and Titan 440 are in different leagues as far as Gallons Per minute. The Graco 695 is more comparable to Titan 640.