FHB Logo Facebook LinkedIn Email Pinterest Twitter X Instagram Tiktok YouTube Plus Icon Close Icon Navigation Search Icon Navigation Search Icon Arrow Down Icon Video Guide Icon Article Guide Icon Modal Close Icon Guide Search Icon Skip to content
Subscribe
Log In
  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Restoration
  • Videos
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House
  • Podcast
Log In

Discussion Forum

Discussion Forum

Good Harbor Freight tools

emaxxman00 | Posted in Tools for Home Building on September 28, 2009 03:54am

I know they are not the tops in quality or durability but I’ve read a few favorable threads regarding Harbor Freight tools. I thought it would be hear about some of the better HF tools.

I’ve only purchased cheap set of hole saws. Key was a 4″ saw for recessed lighting. Set came with 6 different sizes, a mandrel, and case for $8. More than sufficient for me since I only need it for my own house. If it dies after that, it’s much cheaper than the Lenox hole saws at HD/Lowes.

I was eyeing the rotary hammer and 4″ grinder.

So…which HF tools have you purchased and turned out to be quite good?

Reply
  • X
  • facebook
  • linkedin
  • pinterest
  • email
  • add to favorites Log in or Sign up to save your favorite articles

Replies

  1. gstringe | Sep 28, 2009 04:08am | #1

    I have some air tools that are good and I have a spot welder that is good. I have a mig welder that is the replacement for the first one I bought that was bad. In their favor, after I returned the welder, they called and we discussed the problems so that they could improve the product. But never pay full price for big purchases as there are 20% discount coupons available, and the discount is on sale prices too.

    Fit and finish is not usually up to high quality standards but if that is not an issue, there are some good buys.

    Nobody gets in to see the wizard...not nobody...not no how!
  2. DonCanDo | Sep 28, 2009 04:14am | #2

    Oh my, this could turn out to be a "true confessions" thread.

    For power tools, I have a trim router, biscuit joiner, right-angle grinder and a polisher/sander all of which work just fine.  The biscuit joiner has a little slop in it, but I don't build furniture so it's fine for me.  The trim router might be my favorite because for about $20, I can swap routers instead of bits.

    I've also purchased some hand tools most of which I still have, but I do have some screwdrivers from many years ago that are pretty much junk.

    I also bought - and gave away to my mechanic - an impact wrench.  It worked ok, but the battery was pretty marginal.  But it was only about $40 WITH the battery.  I gave it away because I didn't really need it, not because of the battery.

  3. frammer52 | Sep 28, 2009 04:18am | #3

    It is embaressing to admit how many I have.

    Bought a lathe with cast bead, they threw in the 2 yr warentee.

    Rotary hammer,  HF version of MM.  Whole saws, blades for jig saw. hole saw kit(1.99)

    Cheap 4" tile saw can't kill!  4" grinder(9.95)

    Not to mention air hose, adirondack chairs

    I an starting to sound like an adict.  (can't wait until sidewalk sale next weekend)

    Great tools for occasional use.  Can't pull the trigger on their air tools though.

    1. User avater
      Matt | Sep 28, 2009 04:28am | #5

      Yea - I bought an air stapler at HF that lasted about 3 months - moderate use.  OK, one can reason that "it only cost #### so BFD" but when a tool fails in the middle of a job I'm just not happy...

      1. Oak River Mike | Sep 28, 2009 04:40am | #6

        I buy alot of specialty tools there like auto working ones that would cost a fortune if you bought them from a specialty auto tool house.  Like a bearing driver for $29 that goes for over $100.

        1. alwaysoverbudget | Sep 28, 2009 05:19am | #7

          10" tile saw bought it for 199 ,sold it6 years later dirty but still working good 135.bought another one new 179,on sale with a 20 off 150. you can not beat it for the money.

          23 g pin nailer,what more you want for 20.

          hf mm, i broke 2 they replaced both ,haven't tore up the third one yet. made me my 40. back first time i used it.

          they have a suction feed spray gun for 20. that has  more features than a 300.00 binks or sharpe gun.

          must of bought 20 of those 2.99 multi testers. i have them everywhere. i would rate these as marginal,but for 3.00?????

          not really a tool,but they have 2"brushes ,.49 cents and 4" for 79. these are really good for priming with oil,contact cement etc. i grab a handful everytime i'm there.

          lots of small tool stuff, i have never felt like i was ripped off. if you have a problem they will take care of it within reason. the older i get ,

          the more people tick me off

    2. mrfixitusa | Sep 28, 2009 06:32am | #9

      I bought a 3 gallon air compressor today at HF for $85It's going on sale next weekend for $55I bought it today and will get a $30 refund next weekend This is what the clerk told me todayI RAN IT TODAY AND IT IS QUIET

      1. ponytl | Sep 28, 2009 06:57am | #10

        whats cool is they give their employees the power to make decisions... I can go in.. they know me... know what i buy... if i say "this broke" they say "leave that one here and go get another one" sometime i have to sign something sometimes not...
        try to take back a broken tool to sears these days... you'd think they weren't supposed to replace broken ones... or Lowes... when the girl at the desk and the guy from the TOOL dept. told me "you could have bought that "rigid" tool anywhere....P ;)

        1. mrfixitusa | Sep 30, 2009 04:54pm | #29

          Another tool when down this week - my old hand stapler that I've had for probably 30 yearsShe just won't shoot any more staples and maybe one of the guys dropped her or used her for a hammer, but anyway she's out of commission and looking back we've had a good run togetherI was thinking to myself "why should I buy good tools when the guys I work with will be borrowing them and mis-using them""these guys will tear up whatever they get their hands on so why waste my money buying something nice at walmart or home depot?"Anyway I've decided to invest $6.00 in a new hand staple gun from harbor freighthttp://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=96755And was just wondering if you or anyone else has had good luck with these staplers?I'm looking for something at low cost and high qualityI would mainly be using it to staple plastic over windows in preparation for painting, etcThanks for any input

          1. frammer52 | Sep 30, 2009 09:57pm | #32

            Got one, haven't broken it yet!

  4. User avater
    coonass | Sep 28, 2009 04:20am | #4

    eman,

    My HF SDS bits have lasted and lasted.

    Haven't broken my anvil yet.

    KK

  5. ponytl | Sep 28, 2009 05:43am | #8

    tops has to be the multi master...

    I buy the 7.25 metal cutting blades @ 17.99 (use to be $9) but i can cut 1/4 steel like i'm cutting wood...

    $3 voltage testers...

    lots of 18v drills @ 14.99 i leave em everywhere... never broke one battery life isn't great but... they do ok...

    code reader for automotive use... i've reset 100 check engine lights...

    several small 3 gallon air compressors...

    i buy back up 035 mig wire 10-12lb spools.... not great wire but better to have a few spools than run out on sunday... i buy the 23lb spools online... better wire but i still run out sometimes...

    hand tools... I keep a pretty good box of tools in about 8 different places... for the 50-80 bucks it costs it's well worth it to me.. normal hand/mechanic tools

    tarps...

    cheap paint brushes... @ 49cents cost less than the thinner you'd you to clean em...

    9 LED bulb flashlights... 2 for $2.99 i like em my 6yo likes em and every boys birthday party i include 2 in with a gift as an "extra" boys love flashlights... (btw my 6yo has had his own 18v drill since he was 4 and knows how to use it)

    only suck tool i got from them was the handheld 3/4" beltsander i needed to get in some tight spaces... it sucked but it was $20 so...

    they run 6.5hp motors honda knock offs for $99 have a go kart in the warehouse that needs a motor... so i might try one...

    have almost purchased the 36" shear/brake/slip roll sheet metal all in one deal a few times... but haven't... yet

    I'm sure there is more...
    p

    1. 43Billh | Oct 03, 2009 08:10pm | #54

      Ponytl,

      have almost purchased the 36" shear/brake/slip roll sheet metal all in one deal a few times... but haven't... yet

      I was looking hard at that machine too! My immediate need for a slip roll has passed, but looks like it could be a useful tool.

      Have you ever used one ( any brand )?

      If so, how bad is the learning curve??

      1. ponytl | Oct 04, 2009 03:00am | #56

        no never used one... I've used a brake... a shear... and a sliproll just not all in one machine...I'd like to play with one...just to see... many people have sold these over the years and you all but never see a used one for sale... if that means anythingp

        1. brownbagg | Oct 04, 2009 03:19am | #57

          I have a contracor friend like you, have every tool you can think of. He has one of those industiral brake, about 15 feet long, weight a couple tons. I keep asking him if I could fondal his snap on tool box.

          1. hammerelbow1 | Oct 04, 2009 03:56am | #58

            I posted this question on Knots and didn't know this was going on ,I think. Anyways I bought a General Machinery Morticer at an auction and found out when I got home that I didn't get the chuck key. I've tried several with no luck. Anybody know where I can get one?

            Wayne

          2. whitedogstr8leg | Oct 04, 2009 05:03am | #59

            Until you can order one from C.M., here is a "quick-n-dirty way" . A phillips screwdriver in the hole, with a straight bladed screwdriver to move the geared part. Hey, it works." Although I have the right to remain stupid, I try not to abuse that right"

          3. User avater
            Sphere | Oct 04, 2009 05:18am | #60

            Great, except HF tools are Central Machinery, not General machinery..two different outfits as far as I knew. Parts may interchange.  and also somewhere, someone sells a 4 way chuck key, has the most common on a cross.Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks

            Repairs, Remodeling, Restorations

            View Image

          4. User avater
            Luka | Oct 04, 2009 06:23am | #61

            http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=1745...You are always welcome at Quittintime

          5. hammerelbow1 | Oct 04, 2009 05:08pm | #64

            I had one of those in my hand and walked up to the cash register and their computers crashed. Shut them down and no sales. Havent been able to find one anywhere alse.

            Wayne

      2. seeyou | Oct 04, 2009 03:00pm | #62

        I was looking hard at that machine too! My immediate need for a slip roll has passed, but looks like it could be a useful tool.

        I had one of those years ago. The brake was pretty useless for my purposes, but the shear and slip roll worked well. It may still be in use. It stayed with the company when I left.copper p0rn

        1. 43Billh | Oct 04, 2009 03:23pm | #63

          that's good to know.

          I was building a dust collection system a while back and could have used the slip roll to make "couplings" for 7" pipe.

           Got lucky and found a guy who made them up for peanuts. But it would have been fun to learn for my self, and a guy could always use another tool in his shop.

          My wife's uncle has one buried in his basement shop. Hasn't been touched in years but he won't part with it.

  6. woodway | Sep 28, 2009 09:00am | #11

    I bought some string at Harbor Freight once that was just as good as any I've ever used.

    1. DonCanDo | Sep 28, 2009 02:25pm | #12

      I bought some string at Harbor Freight once that was just as good as any I've ever used.

      Yeah, but was it as long?

  7. jackplane | Sep 28, 2009 03:54pm | #13

    I bought a 29$ hammer drill that fried after one use. Disposable shop items are good and cheap, but overall, buyer beware.

    Expert since 10 am.

    1. whitedogstr8leg | Sep 28, 2009 08:39pm | #18

      I bought one of their five speed bench-top drill presses. The only problems so far has been a missing set-screw in the pulley for the quill. Once that was fixed ( a whole $.49) it has ran just fine. Cost, less the set-screw, was about $70." Although I have the right to remain stupid, I try not to abuse that right"

      1. brownbagg | Sep 28, 2009 09:38pm | #19

        I have a harbor freight bandsaw, Its almost identical to a delta. and since sears copy delta too, I can order parts from sear. Only paid $180 so I think its a pretty good deal

  8. renosteinke | Sep 28, 2009 05:32pm | #14

    I have successfully used the SDS roto-hammer for many years. I had one have the hand grip break just about 2 years into use, but that was replaced under warranty, no problem.

    Still, even with the supplied bits (a real boon), I easily have spent another $400 on various core drills. I found all this fits neatly into a 30MM ammo can (appx 18L x 4w x 7T).

    The 4-1/2 grinder is a bit different. First off: by all means get the 4-1/2" grinder, and not the 4" The 4-1/2 is a more standard size, and getting wheels and accessories will be much easier. Make sure it has a 5/8" (and not metric" spindle for the same reason; many wheela nad brushes thread onto that spindle.

    The problem - and somewhere at FHB there's a long thread where I compared my HF to my Makita - with the HF grinder seems to be in the switch. It seems to hang ug, get stuck in the 'on' position. I was only after quite a bit of use that the switch 'wore in' to where you could rely on being able to operate it at will. Even so, I consider the HF grinder to be the best $18 I ever spent. Grinder, wheels, and safety glasses all fit into a 50cal ammo can.

    1. DonCanDo | Sep 28, 2009 07:06pm | #15

      I also have a HF right-angle grinder and a Makita.  In operation, they're quite equivalent, but the reason I have a Makita is because the HF switch gave out in the middle of a job so I had to go out and buy another one.

      After I got home, I dissembled the HF grinder and discovered a lot of dust in the switch.  I had been grinding mortar for a few hours with it so it wasn't totally unexpected.  I cleaned up the switch and it works like new.  I'll keep the Makita as a backup because I'd rather abuse a $20 tool than a $60 tool.

      1. KenHill3 | Sep 28, 2009 08:01pm | #16

        I can't go in the store for the cosmoline (or whatever it is) smell.View Image

        1. FingerJoint | Sep 28, 2009 08:32pm | #17

          Every time I walk in there I imagine that is what China smells like.

        2. Jamie | Oct 01, 2009 04:17am | #39

          I go in for the cosmoline smell.  :)

          Jamie

  9. SLOSapo | Sep 28, 2009 10:07pm | #20

    Second on the 10-inch tile saw. Three years of fairly steady use with no problems.

    1. Jer | Sep 29, 2009 01:52am | #22

      Hmmmm. Got a tile job coming up and I don't do too many anymore. My old saw pooped so I've been renting or borrowing (something I hate doing). Think I'll check it out. Thanks.

      1. MVAgusta | Sep 29, 2009 02:13am | #23

        That 10" saw, with a good blade,will cut granite slabs, bricks, metal clamps (made a press out of them), pretty much anything. Alignment is way off on mine, but for tile I usually use blue tape and pencil lines to cut to, so I don't really care.

  10. kate | Sep 28, 2009 10:11pm | #21

    I have the HF 4" grinder - I'm just an elderly (now) HO working on my own house, but it is perfectly suited to my (admittedly modest) needs -

  11. User avater
    dedhed6b | Sep 29, 2009 02:28am | #24

    I have been using my brother's flooring nailer, not bad for $139.00.

    "Shawdow boxing the appoclipse and wandering the land"
    Wier/Barlow

  12. User avater
    Sphere | Sep 29, 2009 03:15am | #25

    I have 3 or 4 of the 4.5" grinders, I hate changing accessories..LOL. They are all rode hard and put away wet, but keep chuggin along.

    I bought a 10" slider saw and left it on the roof all winter covered with a trash can,and AFAIK, it's still a good beater saw.

    Air tools I have a stapler for upholstery, a die grinder, a metal cutoff wheel tool, an air body saw, an air chisel, and mini palmnailer, and a rt. angle die grinder, and finally a planisher...all just dandy for the little use they see.

    I snagged a cheap HVLP, works fine.

    But mostly , I too get impact sockets, and chip brushes, and things that are pesky consumables, like grinding discs for air die grinders and such.

    Got the big dust collector, two bagger in my shop..and was eyeing up the lathe..what the hell, everything else anymore is made in china too..Like the Kobalt diegrinder I got at Lowes, that hissed air right outta the box, the HF was operable, with no issues..Hmmm?

    Pretty much stay away from MOST of the cordless stuff, and anything like drill bits or sawblades..I just don't trust that quality control.

    Oh yeah, a small twin tank Comp..on sale for like 99 bucks, works great, but all the fittings were junk metal plated w/brass..I just swapped out them from my old Camp.Haus. that died after 15 yrs.

    Buyer beware,, but they have some decent stuff at pretty good prices.

    Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks

    Repairs, Remodeling, Restorations

    View Image

    1. frammer52 | Sep 29, 2009 06:08am | #26

      I snagged a cheap HVLP, works fine>

      Worth it?

      By the way, I bought the lathe with the caste iron bed.  Was acccurate to about 2 thous!

      Supprised how well it works.

      1. User avater
        Sphere | Sep 29, 2009 02:24pm | #27

        Yeah, I got it and box of gun cup liners for about 50 bucks, the wife uses it to spray waterproofing on her handbags she sells.Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks

        Repairs, Remodeling, Restorations

        View Image

        1. rasher | Sep 29, 2009 06:10pm | #28

          I got the $40 high power heat gun (looks like a blow dryer). Works just as fast as my buddy's $150 Milwaukee and now I don't have to borrow anymore.

  13. JTC1 | Sep 30, 2009 07:53pm | #30

    In a previous life, when I worked on charter & commercial fishing boats, I had a nice set of Craftsman socket and combination wrenches.  They were always in my car at the dock.

    One day when we returned from fishing, I saw my car door was open and my tool chest was gone. Insurance was virtually no help.....how can they depreciate tools with a lifetime warranty (and it meant what it said at that time!)

    Not being able to afford a new set of Craftsman wrenches at the time, I ordered a set (actually 3 sets - 1/4, 3/8" and 1/2" drive) of sockets and a set of HF combination wrenches in SAE sizes with most of my insurance money. This was back in the days when they were catalog sales only in my area.

    I thought "Well, these are junk, but hopefully they will get me through the rest of this fishing season."

    That was in 1978, I still have those wrenches and although they are not used as frequently now, they are still working just fine.  The 1/4" drive ratchet went belly up after a few years - other than that no breakage.

    I have added the same wrench sets in metric sizes, 3/4" sq drive socket set and their "jumbo" combination wrenches up to 2" size. All good.

    Jim

    Never underestimate the value of a sharp pencil or good light.
    1. frammer52 | Sep 30, 2009 09:59pm | #33

      Jim, the hand tools carry a life time warrantee! 

      Just like the craftsman did!

      1. JTC1 | Sep 30, 2009 10:27pm | #34

        I didn't know dat!

        JimNever underestimate the value of a sharp pencil or good light.

        1. frammer52 | Sep 30, 2009 11:08pm | #35

          Yep!

          May not be the best, but who cares if they break return them!!

          1. jackplane | Oct 01, 2009 02:19am | #36

            Anyone ever buy finish nail gun at HF?

            My Dewalt 4.5" angle grinder is dying so I thought I'd buy a highly touted HF grinder, and maybe a finish nailer.

            Expert since 10 am.

            Edited 9/30/2009 7:19 pm ET by jackplane

          2. abnorm | Oct 01, 2009 03:00am | #37

            The Parking Lot Sale is this week!!!!!!!!Angle grinder.......on sale $9.99......Reg 19.99Air 18 ga Stapler/nailer.......$14.99....Reg 29.99http://parkinglot.harborfreightusa.com/ecom/info/home.do

            Edited 9/30/2009 8:01 pm ET by abnorm

          3. jackplane | Oct 01, 2009 04:06am | #38

            thanks!Expert since 10 am.

          4. frammer52 | Oct 01, 2009 05:14pm | #44

            I never have.  If you buy one let us all know how it turns out!

          5. alwaysoverbudget | Oct 02, 2009 03:36am | #49

            can a guy get that in titanium,i don't want to hurt my wrist.the older i get ,

            the more people tick me off

          6. excaliber32 | Oct 02, 2009 03:38am | #50

            I've bought several nail guns from them. The 23 gauge pinner is a steal at $20. It is identical to the Husky pinner at Home Depot for way less. Just set your air pressure up a little. I bought a framing gun from them way back, but the compressor I bought didn't run it very well. At $70 on sale I would say its a good deal for a banger gun. Set your pressure pretty high for it too. The 2n1 brad gun stapler is weak. If you have a wheelbarrow compressor, it might work fine for you. The 16 gauge trim gun worked really well at my house for pine door casings, but when I brought it to a crown molding job with textured walls, it was embarrasing. The mini-palm nailer is also a great buy.

            If you look at the cfm ratings on the guns, they are way up. Much higher than most portable compressors. If you own a really really good compressor, you'll be OK.

             

          7. Jamie | Oct 01, 2009 04:21am | #40

            ONe of the best sets of screwdrivers I have EVER owned I bought at HF.  I have had them for about 15 years now, I would guess, and still work great - I think I paid $9 for a 10 or 12 piece set.  I haven't seen that exact set there ever since then, though.

            Also bought a portable air compressor for running framing nailers and so on - been using it for over 5 years (some days it runs literally 12 hours, other times I won't use it for weeks on end, so I would say moderate use), and no issues with it.  It's heavier than $*&%*&^, but it's been well worth the $130 I paid for it.

            Jamie

  14. glatt | Sep 30, 2009 08:11pm | #31

    I got one of the cheaper tile wet saws. Tiled my bathroom, and it held up just fine. Did a good job, actually. The plastic clip-on fence is garbage though. I clamped a board on it instead.

  15. User avater
    PeteDraganic | Oct 01, 2009 04:38am | #41

    I will buy automotive tools more than anything else from HF. I have higher standards for stuff that I make a living with.

    My favorite buy though has to be the OBD II scanner i got for like $70 on sale. I love to mess with cars and this makes life so much easier when diagnosing engine codes.

     

    I refuse to accept that there are limitations to what we can accomplish.        Pete Draganic

     

    Take life as a test and shoot for a better score each day.          Matt Garcia

    1. brownbagg | Oct 01, 2009 03:53pm | #43

      they also have another scanner for $39 that I bought thats good too.

  16. DonCanDo | Oct 01, 2009 01:54pm | #42

    Thanks for starting this thread.  HF freight takes a lot of heat for having some less than stellar tools and even though I've been quite pleased (after cost is considered), I wouldn't have expected so many similar stories.

    Goes to show ya, when it comes to tools, there's a time and place for everything.

    1. Snort | Oct 01, 2009 08:26pm | #45

      and, finally a legal way to drink and drive:http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=97234http://www.tvwsolar.com

      We'll have a kid

      Or maybe we'll rent one

      He's got to be straight

      We don't want a bent one

      He'll drink his baby brew

      From a big brass cup

      Someday he may be president

      If things loosen up

      1. brownbagg | Oct 01, 2009 10:55pm | #46

        you think they are so drunk, instead of pulling nails you just beat them over.

        1. Snort | Oct 02, 2009 01:03am | #47

          or like that old song "she stole my car. and left me a nail to drive"http://www.tvwsolar.com

          We'll have a kid

          Or maybe we'll rent one

          He's got to be straight

          We don't want a bent one

          He'll drink his baby brew

          From a big brass cup

          Someday he may be president

          If things loosen up

          1. erk | Oct 02, 2009 03:36am | #48

            Not sure if all will be able to use this link, but if you signup to get emails with their ads you get 20% coupons about once a week (lately).

            http://www.harborfreightusa.com/usa/common/displayCoupon.do?week=4009&campaign=RetailB&page=4009_retailB.html&r=6070_17105&cust=00100742475&keycode=0000

      2. User avater
        Matt | Oct 03, 2009 05:21pm | #51

        I might buy one of those just for the amusement...

        1. Snort | Oct 03, 2009 08:07pm | #53

          I went by yesterday and picked up a couple of $10 grinders... didn't even think about getting "hammered" LOLhttp://www.tvwsolar.com

          We'll have a kid

          Or maybe we'll rent one

          He's got to be straight

          We don't want a bent one

          He'll drink his baby brew

          From a big brass cup

          Someday he may be president

          If things loosen up

          1. User avater
            Matt | Oct 03, 2009 10:04pm | #55

            You guys are a bad influence...  I went by and bought a 23 ga pinner, an air stapler (again), and a button cap stapler.  The only one that cost any real money was the button cap stapler, but after the coupon it wasn't as bad.  One thing I noticed is that the button caps amo for it is the same price as the hand drives which are around $30 for 3000 where as the HF amo is $10 for 1000.

            Also picked up some trinkets on sale - gloves, safty glasses, etc.

            No bottle opener/hammer though.  Besides, that could create a bad image for carpenters... you know - like the "church key" that painters carry. :-)

             

             

  17. mrfixitusa | Oct 03, 2009 05:25pm | #52

    I would like to be able to camera drain lines and it looks like Harbor Freight has their version

    http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=56040

  18. Billy | Oct 18, 2009 08:45pm | #65

    I bought a 14" metal cutoff saw.  It worked great for 20 gauge steel studs.

    Billy

    1. brownbagg | Oct 18, 2009 09:02pm | #66

      I bought one of those scanner readers for automotive computer. It was $29. Its identcial to those at advance auto for $99. I have had it a year and still works great.

      1. FingerJoint | Oct 21, 2009 06:53pm | #67

        I bought an anvil there a few years ago, and it still works.  I'm afraid of hitting it too hard, though, as I suspect it's made out of some kinda glass or ceramic. 

Log in or create an account to post a comment.

Sign up Log in

Become a member and get full access to FineHomebuilding.com

Video Shorts

Categories

  • Business
  • Code Questions
  • Construction Techniques
  • Energy, Heating & Insulation
  • General Discussion
  • Help/Work Wanted
  • Photo Gallery
  • Reader Classified
  • Tools for Home Building

Discussion Forum

Recent Posts and Replies

  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
View More Create Post

Up Next

Video Shorts

Featured Story

Choosing a Paintbrush

Tips for picking the right paintbrush based on paint type, surface, and personal comfort.

Featured Video

How to Install Exterior Window Trim

Learn how to measure, cut, and build window casing made of cellular PVC, solid wood, poly-ash boards, or any common molding material. Plus, get tips for a clean and solid installation.

Related Stories

  • Midcentury Home for a Modern Family
  • The New Old Colonial
  • Modern and Minimal in the Woods
  • Bryce Hollingsworth, Dry-Stone Waller

Highlights

Fine Homebuilding All Access
Fine Homebuilding Podcast
Tool Tech
Plus, get an extra 20% off with code GIFT20

"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 333 - August/September 2025
    • A Practical Perfect Wall
    • Landscape Lighting Essentials
    • Repairing a Modern Window Sash
  • Issue 332 - July 2025
    • Custom Built-ins With Job-Site Tools
    • Fight House Fires Through Design
    • Making the Move to Multifamily
  • Issue 331 - June 2025
    • A More Resilient Roof
    • Tool Test: You Need a Drywall Sander
    • Ducted vs. Ductless Heat Pumps
  • Issue 330 - April/May 2025
    • Deck Details for Durability
    • FAQs on HPWHs
    • 10 Tips for a Long-Lasting Paint Job
  • Issue 329 - Feb/Mar 2025
    • Smart Foundation for a Small Addition
    • A Kominka Comes West
    • Making Small Kitchens Work

Fine Home Building

Newsletter Sign-up

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox.

  • Green Building Advisor

    Building science and energy efficiency advice, plus special offers, in your inbox.

  • Old House Journal

    Repair, renovation, and restoration tips, plus special offers, in your inbox.

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters

Follow

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X

Membership & Magazine

  • Online Archive
  • Start Free Trial
  • Magazine Subscription
  • Magazine Renewal
  • Gift a Subscription
  • Customer Support
  • Privacy Preferences
  • About
  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • Careers
  • Terms of Use
  • Site Map
  • Do not sell or share my information
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility
  • California Privacy Rights

© 2025 Active Interest Media. All rights reserved.

Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

  • Home Group
  • Antique Trader
  • Arts & Crafts Homes
  • Bank Note Reporter
  • Cabin Life
  • Cuisine at Home
  • Fine Gardening
  • Fine Woodworking
  • Green Building Advisor
  • Garden Gate
  • Horticulture
  • Keep Craft Alive
  • Log Home Living
  • Military Trader/Vehicles
  • Numismatic News
  • Numismaster
  • Old Cars Weekly
  • Old House Journal
  • Period Homes
  • Popular Woodworking
  • Script
  • ShopNotes
  • Sports Collectors Digest
  • Threads
  • Timber Home Living
  • Traditional Building
  • Woodsmith
  • World Coin News
  • Writer's Digest
Active Interest Media logo
X
X
This is a dialog window which overlays the main content of the page. The modal window is a 'site map' of the most critical areas of the site. Pressing the Escape (ESC) button will close the modal and bring you back to where you were on the page.

Main Menu

  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Video
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Popular Topics

  • Kitchens
  • Business
  • Bedrooms
  • Roofs
  • Architecture and Design
  • Green Building
  • Decks
  • Framing
  • Safety
  • Remodeling
  • Bathrooms
  • Windows
  • Tilework
  • Ceilings
  • HVAC

Magazine

  • Current Issue
  • Past Issues
  • Magazine Index
  • Subscribe
  • Online Archive
  • Author Guidelines

All Access

  • Member Home
  • Start Free Trial
  • Gift Membership

Online Learning

  • Courses
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Podcast

More

  • FHB Ambassadors
  • FHB House
  • Customer Support

Account

  • Log In
  • Join

Newsletter

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Follow

  • X
  • YouTube
  • instagram
  • facebook
  • pinterest
  • Tiktok

Join All Access

Become a member and get instant access to thousands of videos, how-tos, tool reviews, and design features.

Start Your Free Trial

Subscribe

FHB Magazine

Start your subscription today and save up to 70%

Subscribe

Enjoy unlimited access to Fine Homebuilding. Join Now

Already a member? Log in

We hope you’ve enjoyed your free articles. To keep reading, become a member today.

Get complete site access to expert advice, how-to videos, Code Check, and more, plus the print magazine.

Start your FREE trial

Already a member? Log in

Privacy Policy Update

We use cookies, pixels, script and other tracking technologies to analyze and improve our service, to improve and personalize content, and for advertising to you. We also share information about your use of our site with third-party social media, advertising and analytics partners. You can view our Privacy Policy here and our Terms of Use here.

Cookies

Analytics

These cookies help us track site metrics to improve our sites and provide a better user experience.

Advertising/Social Media

These cookies are used to serve advertisements aligned with your interests.

Essential

These cookies are required to provide basic functions like page navigation and access to secure areas of the website.

Delete My Data

Delete all cookies and associated data