▼Click READ MORE FOR TOOL LINKS and INFO▼ Subscribe to my email newsletter for the latest content, updates, sales, and more! mailchi.mp/731woodworks/newslettersignup My other channel - The Outlaw Effect - www.youtube.com/@@TheOutlawEffect Watch This Video Next - Harbor Freight Dust Extractor Review - ua-cam.com/video/glDtBMkiqTc/v-deo.htmlsi=2pno_B7-jOJJe2_g Tools in this video: Hercules Dust Extractor - www.harborfreight.com/12-gallon-osha-compliant-dust-extractor-58966.html Bremen Parallel Clamp - www.harborfreight.com/search?q=parallel%20clamps Harbor Freight Bar Clamps - www.harborfreight.com/60-in-aluminum-f-style-bar-clamp-60673.html Harbor Freight Hand Screw Clamps - www.harborfreight.com/8-in-handscrew-wood-clamp-60550.html Magnetic Trays - www.harborfreight.com/search?q=magnetic%20trays Bauer Miter Gauge - www.harborfreight.com/24-in-fence-and-miter-gauge-70692.html Bessey Parallel Clamps - amzn.to/4hwbxT6 JET Parallel Clamps - amzn.to/4hhc4Zi Craftsman Sander - amzn.to/42DfAbP DeWALT Sander - amzn.to/3CkJcAc Vevor Miter Gauge (Amazon) - amzn.to/40O5seY Vevor Miter Gauge (Lowe's) - shoplowes.me/4hsM1hp Woodpeckers Miter Gauge - thetoolnut.sjv.io/DyWX2b Fastcap Old Standby Tape Measure - amzn.to/3WLjxr5 Fastcap Lefty/Righty Tape Measure - amzn.to/3CyBJNO iGaging and Benchmark Rulers - amzn.to/4gs2ama If you use one of these partner and other affiliate links used in this comment, I may receive a commission on qualifying purchases. 📲 Text DEALS to 1 (731) 207-7151 to sign up for my Tool Deals SMS Alerts All of my Build PLANS: www.731woodworks.com/store Greatest Free Gift I've Ever Received: story4.us/731Woodworks Jumpstart Your Own Woodworking Business with My FREE Trainings - www.skool.com/731woodworks
@@muddslide8829 I agree. I used to feel there was some tool shaming going on with Harbor freight on UA-cam. Then I saw a video a few years back on the Make Something channel. He explained that due to HF he was able to get into woodworking by purchasing their tools. He showed he still uses a small sander and their 6" f style clamps. I thought if HF is good enough for him, it will be for me too.
Great video Matt. I do disagree with you on one point however. You are correct about the larger F style clamps, but the 6 inch clamps are a steal. Whenever they are on sale I pick up at least two. They are critical whenever I build any crosscut sled. I clamp my fences to a nice steel bar I have and they come out completely flat. Give them a try.
@@MemelordSupreme Yeah, I noticed that too with the newer version. The steel seems to be a little thicker and of better quality than the original version.
Bremen clamps have been through the ringer in my shop. One of the most impressive items at harbor freight in my opinion. I always tell my customers that they are probably the best budget option
Based on watching your videos and your recommendations i purchased the fast cap lefty/righty, Skil router, Worx table, Kreg rip guide and a few other tools and accessories. Thanks for all the great videos and recommendations
Have had the Hercules dust extractor for 4-5 months now and it has worked flawlessly for me. The one thing I would (will) change on it is the hose itself. Will be looking for a more flexible hose to swap it out for.
Buying a few of those tools ASAP, so thanks. Always a good place to find solid info about tools, tips, and safety 👍Remember kids, "Safety first and you'll last"
I use those magnetic trays as paint palettes. They're nice and heavy, which makes them less likely to tip or knock over. Plus, they are easy as hell to clean out no matter if your paint is wet or dried.
I’ve had great luck with the short F-Style clamps at HF. As long as you stick to the 12” or the relatively soft steal on the bar doesn’t cause any issues. For anything longer than 12” then the Bessie or Jorgensens are definitely the way to go.
I have had the Hercules dust extractor for 2 months now and I love it. Took two months to come in after I ordered it but got it with a 20% discount coupon. It has worked great, and i noticed that it has now gone up to $349.
I love the fortress quiet air compressor. I’ve used it for years w/o issue. Fairly light. Pretty quiet. They have smaller and larger versions as well. FORTRESS 2 Gallon, 135 PSI Ultra Quiet Oil-Free Hand-Carry Jobsite Air Compressor
I came here to say this! I can EASILY carry a nice conversation without raid voices right next to my Fortress Ultra Quiet 2G compressor. Especially when working inside doing flooring, trim, etc. this is a must have tool
I just got the 1 gallon version for free and I'm curious as to what I can use with a 1 gallon compressor? When I got it it was so loud. It turned out the housing for the air filter was loose and rattling. I made a rubber washer for it and now it's as quiet as my kitty cat.
Great video as always! One other critique I have on the hf dust extractor is the static build up on the hose. I was cutting up a bunch of lumber with the hf extractor hooked up to my makita cordless circular saw, and noticed substantial static buildup. I neglected to address that, and the makita saw actually completely broke during that session. Don't know for sure what happened, but I suspect the static fried something in the saw. Still happy with the hf extractor, but wish the static on the hose was handled better.
If I am making shop furniture that needs casters, I take apart a Harbor Freight furniture dolly and use the wheels from that. The dollies are usually cheaper than buying casters at the box stores. They don't lock but I have used them on things like lumber racks and they carry a LOT of weight.
You are correct on Harbor Freight tape measure (inexpensive Pittsburgh). It is off. I have numerous ones around the house and used them for years. Then took two measures with Pittsburgh tape measure and my Stanley. I got two different marks on the wood. I was confused. Then took out other things to measure with and they all lined up with the Stanley. Pittsburgh tape measures all in a landfill somewhere.
Great job sir! You are absolutely correct on the F clamps, they are trash, but they will hold two pieces of paper together . There are two tools that I have from Harbor freight that I was shocked that I like them so much. One is there very large belt sander by Bauer. It’s 4” and a beast for removing material. The other I received for Christmas and it is the. Bauer cordless Brad nailer and the spot light. For the price they both perform phenomenally and the battery life was more than I expected.
Their pneumatic narrow crown stapler is pretty good. I put down about 1200 sqft of lauan as underlayment putting a staple about every 4 inches. I would tack a 4x8 sheet in place, then just hold the trigger sweeping back and forth. Never gave me any issue. I oiled it daily over the 3 days I used it and I was using it for about 2 to 4 hours straight. Worked well with the staples they had in stock too. I think I paid $30 or $40 for it. No issues, no complaints.
Great video, I'm personally a Harbour Freight fan. With that being said, I'm also very careful about what I buy there. I've had no problems with what I've purchased from them. Like I said very careful of what you buy! Thanks Matt
My store does not even stock the dust extractor, so you just do a pre-sale at the register. I was going to use the 20% coupon on that Friday but I ended up going with the trailer instead. I'll wait for a Hercules coupon this spring for the extractor.
For smaller and lighter weight applications, the 6 inch F style clamps are a great value and perform as needed. Well worth your money. Definitely agree though, stay away from the larger sizes as they will twist and deform.
Dust extractor is 350 now. Actually the day it jumped to $350 was the day I bought it. 20% coupon still made it 280. I wasn’t happy about the price jump, but it’s even still a fantastic price for an excellent machine.
Miter gauge is nice. My only issue is on a DeWalt jobsite table saw the set screws scratch the plastic track. My solution has been painters tape to close the gap.
Thanks for the video, Matt! I haven’t noticed too much deflection in my HF F-clamps, but haven’t torqued them down super tight. Need to get some of the Bremen parallels next.
Hercules 12" dual bevel miter saw . I bought one of these saws and really like it better then the 12" ( older ) DE Walt dual bevel I had for many years .
I have some of those f clamps, and yeah they bend. How much force does one need to clamp up cutting boards or small projects. The bar clamps prolly are my favorite. Light weight does what I need them to do. I was lucky to buy the dust extractor before they sold out. Holly crap! I love it! Most folks are on budgets, some of the tools are not bad, but go out and spend 20 dollars more for better tools like sanders or drills, Thanks again for a great video!
Over 45 years in woodworking, I've owned at least 6-12 parallel clamps of EVERY brand. I absolutely LOVE my Bremen parallel clamps!!! The first time I picked one off the rack and felt the weight and quality, I was hooked. I sold off my other clamps and bought more Bremens.
A couple days ago, I got the Hercules variable speed random orbit corded sander in spite of Matt’s review because it was on sale for $35. I slapped the 60 grit disk it came with on it and let er rip on a 2x4. Boy was it disappointing. It would jerk itself every once in a while, didn’t sand very aggressively for 60 grit, the variable speed didn’t seem to change the speed very much. And ya, it transferred a lot of vibration and was a little fatiguing after just a couple minutes of sanding. I got out my 10 year old Ryobi sander, which looked a lot like it, maybe a little bigger, and boy was it a better sander. Now, I’ve sanded a lot of hours with that one, so I guess it has the advantage of being broken in. But I returned the Hercules since I didn’t feel like it added anything to what the Ryobi could do. Even at $35, I’d want a different one if it were my only random orbit sander.
I have to agree about the Hercules sander. It does a nice job but it does really fatigue your hand. Getting all of my Christmas craft show projects done with it really hurt my hand. Just got the Dewalt cordless sander and am hoping that it is much better. I just need to get some more batteries for it.
Anther great review and I like that you pull no punches, I have the Bauer 10 inch dule bevel mitre saw. I think you should test and review that one from Harbor Freight. I think for what I paid for it it's a great saw.
I would love to see you review the new Bauer Scroll Saw. The thing looks pretty solid. Thanks for all the great reviews, I picked up my miter saw yesterday. Some scuff marks on the back, but 100% square. The plastic ends are a little loose but that is an easy fix.
@@jamescraigrn I have looked at a few of those reviews. It would be an upgrade from my old single speed Craftsman, and not a bank buster like the Dewalt would be. I will let my wife know you told me to but it tomorrow!
the problem with the Hercules Sander is a new thig, I had one for the longest until it finally died on my after tons of abuse and getting rained on, tha thing was solid and normal vibration, I went to replace it with a new Hercules, and it was garbage it vibrated to much it made impossible to get anything sanded properly, I tested 2 Hercules sander, both had the same issue
Great video, Matt. With my CT48, I havent used any other tool than the sander. Its a great dust extractor I have a couple of the magnetic trays and they're definitely handy. Reference the parallel clamps, I have several Besseys and some Jets. I like the the Jets better because they just feel more sturdy and are easier for a beginner to use.
Just to let you know Matt, the dust extractor has gone up to $350. And you called the parallel clamps Bauer at first and that was a 60" not a 50" bar clamp.
I think you should note that the price for the Herculese Dust Extractor jumped up to $349.99, I went in and bought one on Jan 31, 2025 thinking I got the ITC Club deal, 20% off the $299.99 price but I did not, essentially I got the original full price, a non ITC Club buyer now has to pay $349.99, I kind of got the shaft....
Get an auto switch and plug extractor and tool into and you got auto start, so that really doesn't matter on the 3 amp plug on the front ..super easy fix there ..and those Breman clamps I have and get perfect glue ups, the best thing is, they are lifetime no questions returns which makes em a no brainer, I've done doors and big table tops with those with 0 issues ..
You need to review the new Bauer 14” bandsaw. It’s $500 normally, but you can get it on sale for $400. I did. The closest 14” bandsaw is the Wen version and that is $900. It probably can’t compete against a $1500 Rikon, but it’s 1/4 the price.
Ordered mine around the same time and they said it would arrive in mid February, but I got the email last week that it was in. Haven’t had a chance to use it yet, but there’s hope it might come earlier
I was a maintenance mechanic and fabricator and recently retired and I have a Mititoyo digital caliber from when I first got into maintenance 25+ yrs ago and it was over $100 and then I found the PITTSBURGH 6 in. Digital Caliper with SAE and Metric Fractional Readings and found it to be just as accurate as the Mititoyo and it's metric, SAE and fractions. The only thing I did to it was take a finishing stone to the corners and just took off the smallest of burrs and it's been great and have had it for over 10yrs with no problems and it's held it's accuracy.... I did buy a few extra ones for that price and they are still working and It cost about $14 10yrs ago but now and it's $23 but still a good deal.
I've got the same one, I stopped using it for anything critical like reloading ammo because it loses zero so often and randomly. For wood working it's good but if I need repeatable precision it's a no go.
Another thing to avoid at Harbor Freight is lathe chisels. A friend of mine gave me a set and I tried to turn with them. They lost their edge very quickly. Save money and get HSS chisels.
Needed a new random orbit sander because I just couldn’t figure out how to fix my Porter Cable one. Ended up buying the Hercules because I got it for $35. I agree, not the greatest. But for $35 it is ok.
Forgot to mention I've used the router bits as well for some window casings that I had to customize on a barndominium we built and it did a pretty good job.
So here’s a question for you. With all the tools that you review and that you have received or bought over the years, what do you do with them all because they all don’t fit in that small area? Lol. Just curious your shop should be way overcrowded by now.😂
Don't set your miter gauge fence 90º to the blade, set the fence 90º to the miter bar. Not only is this easier and safer (no teeth to interfere), it's more accurate since it doesn't translate any slot/blade alignment error to your cut.
I haven't seen Hercules 10in 20v miter saw reviewed. It's like $400 n may be a sleeper after the impact gun and dust extractor. I need a new one and can't afford buyers remorse going into decking season!
I bought a 12” Doyle carpenter square, and the other day checked it for square with my Woodpeckers 12” square, and by golly, it’s square. Checked my Milwaukee 6 inch square against the Woodpeckers and it is significantly out of square - nearly at least a 16th.
I like some of the tools from HF, But I HATE their sandpaper. It wears out in no time. So you save money buying it, but you end up buying more to finish a project.
Hey, I love that your channel doesn't involve politics, but are you willing to do a video on what to expect with the current tax tariff? Seems like the tariffs will affect all tools including all harbor freight stores. The tariffs will probably hit trademan the hardedt as everything they use will be affected by the tariffs.
The Vevor miter gauge has not been available (out of stock) in every venue that sells it. I don’t know if they are out of business or what is going on!???
I have never bought a harbor freight tool that didn`t have to be returned for a refund. I don`t waste my time with their garbage anymore. When you lose VALUABLE time having to return junk tools, you can save a trip by buying quality tools to start with because you waste less time having to take the time out of your day to return junk harbor freight garbage. For me, time is money, even if its a job for my self.
I joined just to piss you off 🤥 I know how much you’d hate to hit 1 million subscribers. Actually, I joined so I don’t miss any of your videos you get two thumbs down and one thumbs up 🤭
▼Click READ MORE FOR TOOL LINKS and INFO▼
Subscribe to my email newsletter for the latest content, updates, sales, and more! mailchi.mp/731woodworks/newslettersignup
My other channel - The Outlaw Effect - www.youtube.com/@@TheOutlawEffect
Watch This Video Next - Harbor Freight Dust Extractor Review - ua-cam.com/video/glDtBMkiqTc/v-deo.htmlsi=2pno_B7-jOJJe2_g
Tools in this video:
Hercules Dust Extractor - www.harborfreight.com/12-gallon-osha-compliant-dust-extractor-58966.html
Bremen Parallel Clamp - www.harborfreight.com/search?q=parallel%20clamps
Harbor Freight Bar Clamps - www.harborfreight.com/60-in-aluminum-f-style-bar-clamp-60673.html
Harbor Freight Hand Screw Clamps - www.harborfreight.com/8-in-handscrew-wood-clamp-60550.html
Magnetic Trays - www.harborfreight.com/search?q=magnetic%20trays
Bauer Miter Gauge - www.harborfreight.com/24-in-fence-and-miter-gauge-70692.html
Bessey Parallel Clamps - amzn.to/4hwbxT6
JET Parallel Clamps - amzn.to/4hhc4Zi
Craftsman Sander - amzn.to/42DfAbP
DeWALT Sander - amzn.to/3CkJcAc
Vevor Miter Gauge (Amazon) - amzn.to/40O5seY
Vevor Miter Gauge (Lowe's) - shoplowes.me/4hsM1hp
Woodpeckers Miter Gauge - thetoolnut.sjv.io/DyWX2b
Fastcap Old Standby Tape Measure - amzn.to/3WLjxr5
Fastcap Lefty/Righty Tape Measure - amzn.to/3CyBJNO
iGaging and Benchmark Rulers - amzn.to/4gs2ama
If you use one of these partner and other affiliate links used in this comment, I may receive a commission on qualifying purchases.
📲 Text DEALS to 1 (731) 207-7151 to sign up for my Tool Deals SMS Alerts
All of my Build PLANS: www.731woodworks.com/store
Greatest Free Gift I've Ever Received: story4.us/731Woodworks
Jumpstart Your Own Woodworking Business with My FREE Trainings - www.skool.com/731woodworks
Jorgensen 48 inch parallel clamps are still $39 at lowes
Love your channel one of the best honest reviews
Thanks for giving a little love to Harbor freight. It's how I was able to get started in wood working .
@@muddslide8829 I agree. I used to feel there was some tool shaming going on with Harbor freight on UA-cam. Then I saw a video a few years back on the Make Something channel. He explained that due to HF he was able to get into woodworking by purchasing their tools. He showed he still uses a small sander and their 6" f style clamps. I thought if HF is good enough for him, it will be for me too.
As a wood man (its my profession), I appreciate your posts. Great stuff, i always look for better quality, better value and honest posts.
I love the fastcap lefty righty. The flatback lefty righty is even better. It's flat and 100% flexible. Great.
Great video Matt. I do disagree with you on one point however. You are correct about the larger F style clamps, but the 6 inch clamps are a steal. Whenever they are on sale I pick up at least two. They are critical whenever I build any crosscut sled. I clamp my fences to a nice steel bar I have and they come out completely flat. Give them a try.
I agree. The 6" are good for small things. I even have good luck with the 12" BUT I am careful not to clamp too tight.
Was going to make the same comment the 6-inch are great! they have been updated a little bit too they are a bit better than they were before.
@@MemelordSupreme Yeah, I noticed that too with the newer version. The steel seems to be a little thicker and of better quality than the original version.
Same, the smaller F clamps are champs. I do glue the rubber feet to them though, they are too loose otherwise and tend to fall off.
Bremen clamps have been through the ringer in my shop. One of the most impressive items at harbor freight in my opinion. I always tell my customers that they are probably the best budget option
Based on watching your videos and your recommendations i purchased the fast cap lefty/righty, Skil router, Worx table, Kreg rip guide and a few other tools and accessories.
Thanks for all the great videos and recommendations
Thanks for listing all the tools you talk about! That shows how much you care about your subscriber/viewers
Have had the Hercules dust extractor for 4-5 months now and it has worked flawlessly for me. The one thing I would (will) change on it is the hose itself. Will be looking for a more flexible hose to swap it out for.
Look at pool filter hose. It comes in great lengths, air/water tight, swivel ends and half the price.
Buying a few of those tools ASAP, so thanks. Always a good place to find solid info about tools, tips, and safety 👍Remember kids, "Safety first and you'll last"
I use those magnetic trays as paint palettes. They're nice and heavy, which makes them less likely to tip or knock over. Plus, they are easy as hell to clean out no matter if your paint is wet or dried.
The Bauer table top drill press. So impressive! Worth every penny
I love the 6 inch and 12 inch f style clamps. They don’t deflect on the short size.
I’ve had great luck with the short F-Style clamps at HF. As long as you stick to the 12” or the relatively soft steal on the bar doesn’t cause any issues.
For anything longer than 12” then the Bessie or Jorgensens are definitely the way to go.
I have had the Hercules dust extractor for 2 months now and I love it. Took two months to come in after I ordered it but got it with a 20% discount coupon. It has worked great, and i noticed that it has now gone up to $349.
Love the Portland 6.5 9.5 Electric Pole Saw, It's a beast
Thanks for the pro and con reviews. I like Harbor Freight for most things.
I have the Hercules dust extractor, combined with a Mullet cyclone, and it's fantastic. Highly recommend.
I love the fortress quiet air compressor. I’ve used it for years w/o issue. Fairly light. Pretty quiet. They have smaller and larger versions as well. FORTRESS 2 Gallon, 135 PSI Ultra Quiet Oil-Free Hand-Carry Jobsite Air Compressor
I came here to say this! I can EASILY carry a nice conversation without raid voices right next to my Fortress Ultra Quiet 2G compressor. Especially when working inside doing flooring, trim, etc. this is a must have tool
I just got the 1 gallon version for free and I'm curious as to what I can use with a 1 gallon compressor?
When I got it it was so loud. It turned out the housing for the air filter was loose and rattling. I made a rubber washer for it and now it's as quiet as my kitty cat.
Great video as always!
One other critique I have on the hf dust extractor is the static build up on the hose. I was cutting up a bunch of lumber with the hf extractor hooked up to my makita cordless circular saw, and noticed substantial static buildup. I neglected to address that, and the makita saw actually completely broke during that session. Don't know for sure what happened, but I suspect the static fried something in the saw.
Still happy with the hf extractor, but wish the static on the hose was handled better.
If I am making shop furniture that needs casters, I take apart a Harbor Freight furniture dolly and use the wheels from that. The dollies are usually cheaper than buying casters at the box stores. They don't lock but I have used them on things like lumber racks and they carry a LOT of weight.
You are correct on Harbor Freight tape measure (inexpensive Pittsburgh). It is off. I have numerous ones around the house and used them for years. Then took two measures with Pittsburgh tape measure and my Stanley. I got two different marks on the wood. I was confused. Then took out other things to measure with and they all lined up with the Stanley. Pittsburgh tape measures all in a landfill somewhere.
The fastcap tape measure is the bomb. I have 3 of ‘em
The best tool channel on the web! Thanks for the great info!!
Thank you!
Great job sir! You are absolutely correct on the F clamps, they are trash, but they will hold two pieces of paper together . There are two tools that I have from Harbor freight that I was shocked that I like them so much. One is there very large belt sander by Bauer. It’s 4” and a beast for removing material. The other I received for Christmas and it is the. Bauer cordless Brad nailer and the spot light. For the price they both perform phenomenally and the battery life was more than I expected.
Their pneumatic narrow crown stapler is pretty good. I put down about 1200 sqft of lauan as underlayment putting a staple about every 4 inches. I would tack a 4x8 sheet in place, then just hold the trigger sweeping back and forth. Never gave me any issue.
I oiled it daily over the 3 days I used it and I was using it for about 2 to 4 hours straight. Worked well with the staples they had in stock too. I think I paid $30 or $40 for it. No issues, no complaints.
Great video, I'm personally a Harbour Freight fan.
With that being said, I'm also very careful about what I buy there. I've had no problems with what I've purchased from them.
Like I said very careful of what you buy!
Thanks Matt
My store does not even stock the dust extractor, so you just do a pre-sale at the register. I was going to use the 20% coupon on that Friday but I ended up going with the trailer instead. I'll wait for a Hercules coupon this spring for the extractor.
My local store does the same... e.g. pre-order in store
For smaller and lighter weight applications, the 6 inch F style clamps are a great value and perform as needed. Well worth your money. Definitely agree though, stay away from the larger sizes as they will twist and deform.
Yep
The 6” is good 👍 the 12”??? The bigger ones NO 👎 they only sorta work for very light work
Dust extractor is 350 now. Actually the day it jumped to $350 was the day I bought it. 20% coupon still made it 280. I wasn’t happy about the price jump, but it’s even still a fantastic price for an excellent machine.
Finally got the Hercules extractor! Awesome
Miter gauge is nice. My only issue is on a DeWalt jobsite table saw the set screws scratch the plastic track. My solution has been painters tape to close the gap.
Thanks for the video, Matt!
I haven’t noticed too much deflection in my HF F-clamps, but haven’t torqued them down super tight. Need to get some of the Bremen parallels next.
The dust extractor just jumped to $349 from $299. I was bummed.
Thanks to Trump I bet. I got one for 25% off.
Same here… going to have to get one on sale next time they have a big coupon.
@@jamesulrich4406 Yes thanks to Trump perhaps someday american retail won't be dominated by the CCP, if thats important to you...
Tariffs are a likely culprit. Hercules is American owned, but most of their tools are made by Asian contractors in China and Taiwan.
@@trdconsult maybe they can start making them HERE!
Hercules 12" dual bevel miter saw . I bought one of these saws and really like it better then the 12" ( older ) DE Walt dual bevel I had for many years .
The Hercules miter saw!! It almost exactly like the Deaalt 780. It’s fantastic and slso $299
I bought the Bauer miter gauge and it doesn't fit my Craftsman 8 1/2" table saw. It's too big for the track. Really nice and solid though.
You can get the wen 50 gal dust extractor for just a bit more than the hercules
i get the 1/2 pipe clamps from Harbor Freight and go to a steel plant and get the pipe different length.
The Hercules compound miter saw is also a great deal.
I have some of those f clamps, and yeah they bend. How much force does one need to clamp up cutting boards or small projects. The bar clamps prolly are my favorite. Light weight does what I need them to do. I was lucky to buy the dust extractor before they sold out. Holly crap! I love it! Most folks are on budgets, some of the tools are not bad, but go out and spend 20 dollars more for better tools like sanders or drills, Thanks again for a great video!
Over 45 years in woodworking, I've owned at least 6-12 parallel clamps of EVERY brand. I absolutely LOVE my Bremen parallel clamps!!! The first time I picked one off the rack and felt the weight and quality, I was hooked. I sold off my other clamps and bought more Bremens.
Just found a pair of 48” Irwin parallel clamps at Ross of all places for $25 each. I think this is quite the score!
I just recently bought the hercules plunge router combo kit and have to say ive been impressed, would love to see your thoughts on it
A couple days ago, I got the Hercules variable speed random orbit corded sander in spite of Matt’s review because it was on sale for $35.
I slapped the 60 grit disk it came with on it and let er rip on a 2x4. Boy was it disappointing. It would jerk itself every once in a while, didn’t sand very aggressively for 60 grit, the variable speed didn’t seem to change the speed very much. And ya, it transferred a lot of vibration and was a little fatiguing after just a couple minutes of sanding.
I got out my 10 year old Ryobi sander, which looked a lot like it, maybe a little bigger, and boy was it a better sander. Now, I’ve sanded a lot of hours with that one, so I guess it has the advantage of being broken in. But I returned the Hercules since I didn’t feel like it added anything to what the Ryobi could do.
Even at $35, I’d want a different one if it were my only random orbit sander.
I have to agree about the Hercules sander. It does a nice job but it does really fatigue your hand. Getting all of my Christmas craft show projects done with it really hurt my hand. Just got the Dewalt cordless sander and am hoping that it is much better. I just need to get some more batteries for it.
Brother, I love your shirt! 👍🏻
Anther great review and I like that you pull no punches, I have the Bauer 10 inch dule bevel mitre saw. I think you should test and review that one from Harbor Freight. I think for what I paid for it it's a great saw.
I would like to see you review The Hercules line of saws
I would love to see you review the new Bauer Scroll Saw. The thing looks pretty solid. Thanks for all the great reviews, I picked up my miter saw yesterday. Some scuff marks on the back, but 100% square. The plastic ends are a little loose but that is an easy fix.
I bought it. I don't have a ton of time on it due to working a lot but it's a tank. There are a couple of reviews here on UA-cam on it.
@@jamescraigrn I have looked at a few of those reviews. It would be an upgrade from my old single speed Craftsman, and not a bank buster like the Dewalt would be. I will let my wife know you told me to but it tomorrow!
I have several brands of parallel clamps, and the Bremen clamps are my favorite over Bessey and Jorgensen
the problem with the Hercules Sander is a new thig, I had one for the longest until it finally died on my after tons of abuse and getting rained on, tha thing was solid and normal vibration, I went to replace it with a new Hercules, and it was garbage it vibrated to much it made impossible to get anything sanded properly, I tested 2 Hercules sander, both had the same issue
Great video, Matt. With my CT48, I havent used any other tool than the sander. Its a great dust extractor I have a couple of the magnetic trays and they're definitely handy. Reference the parallel clamps, I have several Besseys and some Jets. I like the the Jets better because they just feel more sturdy and are easier for a beginner to use.
Just to let you know Matt, the dust extractor has gone up to $350. And you called the parallel clamps Bauer at first and that was a 60" not a 50" bar clamp.
Right now, my go to tape measure is a HF one. Maybe I should check it out!
Me too. Fortunately I've never used it for anything super accurate.
HERCULES 12 Amp Variable Speed Fixed Base Router. It comes with a plunger base kit and edge guide. It’s certainly comparable to the DeWalt.
Those Harbor Freight sanders are often on sale for $15.00 I have a half dozen of them loaded with assorted grits
What adaptor are you using on the Dewalt sander to connect to the Hercules Extractor?
I think you should note that the price for the Herculese Dust Extractor jumped up to $349.99, I went in and bought one on Jan 31, 2025 thinking I got the ITC Club deal, 20% off the $299.99 price but I did not, essentially I got the original full price, a non ITC Club buyer now has to pay $349.99, I kind of got the shaft....
Their nail guns are also a steal for the price. Unless you’re planning to frame an entire home, they should be more than enough.
Get an auto switch and plug extractor and tool into and you got auto start, so that really doesn't matter on the 3 amp plug on the front ..super easy fix there ..and those Breman clamps I have and get perfect glue ups, the best thing is, they are lifetime no questions returns which makes em a no brainer, I've done doors and big table tops with those with 0 issues ..
You need to review the new Bauer 14” bandsaw. It’s $500 normally, but you can get it on sale for $400. I did. The closest 14” bandsaw is the Wen version and that is $900. It probably can’t compete against a $1500 Rikon, but it’s 1/4 the price.
Thoughts on the new Taytools clamps? They look better than these for competitive price
Maybe look at the Hercules Sliding Compound Miter Saw. It compares really well to the Dewalt and for less money.
Can you use the Hercules Dust Extractor as a Wet/Dry vac as well?
according to the manual... yes
I bought the HF dust extractor on Dec 5 ---- I'm still waiting...... Supposed to be here Feb 22. We'll see.......
Ordered mine around the same time and they said it would arrive in mid February, but I got the email last week that it was in. Haven’t had a chance to use it yet, but there’s hope it might come earlier
Same thing here
Drill through the end piece on the clamp and add a machine screw and a tee nut.
What's the difference between a bar clamp and a parallel clamp?
Has anyone tried the Hercules planer? I know it’s not a Dewalt but being budget conscious, any thoughts?
I was a maintenance mechanic and fabricator and recently retired and I have a Mititoyo digital caliber from when I first got into maintenance 25+ yrs ago and it was over $100 and then I found the PITTSBURGH 6 in. Digital Caliper with SAE and Metric Fractional Readings and found it to be just as accurate as the Mititoyo and it's metric, SAE and fractions. The only thing I did to it was take a finishing stone to the corners and just took off the smallest of burrs and it's been great and have had it for over 10yrs with no problems and it's held it's accuracy.... I did buy a few extra ones for that price and they are still working and It cost about $14 10yrs ago but now and it's $23 but still a good deal.
I've got the same one, I stopped using it for anything critical like reloading ammo because it loses zero so often and randomly. For wood working it's good but if I need repeatable precision it's a no go.
Another thing to avoid at Harbor Freight is lathe chisels. A friend of mine gave me a set and I tried to turn with them. They lost their edge very quickly. Save money and get HSS chisels.
Needed a new random orbit sander because I just couldn’t figure out how to fix my Porter Cable one. Ended up buying the Hercules because I got it for $35. I agree, not the greatest. But for $35 it is ok.
Still waiting for the restock of the miter gauge.
I actually like the shorty F clamp. I mod them for welding jigs and for my drill press T slots. Just sayin’
Great video
Hi, what does your T-shirt say I cannot make it out!?
In Him
Bob
England
PS do you know if we can get that vac. In England?
What about the Bauer Dust Collector with 2 micron filter? It's only $450, but expect a 10% price increase thanks to tariffs.😂
What do you think about H.F's jig saw blades and router bits?
I haven’t tried those yet
The Hercules blades are not that bad at all.
Forgot to mention I've used the router bits as well for some window casings that I had to customize on a barndominium we built and it did a pretty good job.
@davidvaldez903 thanks bro!🤙
dust extractor ordered in DEC still has not came in. was told JAN 13. now it is Feb 13.
Not only did it sell out, but the price now (feb 2) is 349.00. Dangit. Hey I love your channel, brother!
Thanks! Crazy they raised the price!
Are you from Tennessee by any chance? The reason I asked is the 731, that's our are code. Anyway I love your content
Thanks! Naw, we are in Arkansas. 731 is my wife and I's anniversary, July 31.
So here’s a question for you. With all the tools that you review and that you have received or bought over the years, what do you do with them all because they all don’t fit in that small area? Lol. Just curious your shop should be way overcrowded by now.😂
The magnetic trade, the magnets, the glue fails and the magnets fall off does anyone have a suggestion to reglue to tray hot glue doesn’t work
Don't set your miter gauge fence 90º to the blade, set the fence 90º to the miter bar. Not only is this easier and safer (no teeth to interfere), it's more accurate since it doesn't translate any slot/blade alignment error to your cut.
Looks like the Dust Collector just went up $50 in price. Can’t blame them if they can’t keep them in stock.
I haven't seen Hercules 10in 20v miter saw reviewed. It's like $400 n may be a sleeper after the impact gun and dust extractor. I need a new one and can't afford buyers remorse going into decking season!
Had the ryobi cordless and it was great for 3 seasons but mid quality
They raised the price of the dust extractor to 350 for an extra 60 id buy the festool for 420
I thought the Festool was $935 in this video.
And doesn't include the attachments that come with the Hercules
I bought a 12” Doyle carpenter square, and the other day checked it for square with my Woodpeckers 12” square, and by golly, it’s square.
Checked my Milwaukee 6 inch square against the Woodpeckers and it is significantly out of square - nearly at least a 16th.
I like some of the tools from HF, But I HATE their sandpaper. It wears out in no time. So you save money buying it, but you end up buying more to finish a project.
Hey, I love that your channel doesn't involve politics, but are you willing to do a video on what to expect with the current tax tariff? Seems like the tariffs will affect all tools including all harbor freight stores. The tariffs will probably hit trademan the hardedt as everything they use will be affected by the tariffs.
I'll look into it. Thanks!
That has to be the biggest t-shirt pocket I've seen yet. How close are you to getting the utility patent application done? 😉
😂
The Vevor miter gauge has not been available (out of stock) in every venue that sells it. I don’t know if they are out of business or what is going on!???
Looks like Harbour Freight is already raising price of the dust extractor. Its $349.
Nooice!
Not a Harbor Freight hater but how can you name your tools Hercules? Seriously!
I have never bought a harbor freight tool that didn`t have to be returned for a refund. I don`t waste my time with their garbage anymore. When you lose VALUABLE time having to return junk tools, you can save a trip by buying quality tools to start with because you waste less time having to take the time out of your day to return junk harbor freight garbage. For me, time is money, even if its a job for my self.
There are Harbor Freight haters out there? 🤔
Bruh😅
The Pittsburgh Vise-Grips seem awful
I joined just to piss you off 🤥
I know how much you’d hate to hit 1 million subscribers.
Actually, I joined so I don’t miss any of your videos you get two thumbs down and one thumbs up 🤭
Harbor freight tape measures are trash