Big Boy Pants! The Harbor Freight Icon 35-piece Flexhead Ratchet Bit Set is not cheap or inexpensive
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It's 100% worth the 40 dollars. Nice compact kit and it has a life time warranty. I had one set that I had to put their warranty to the test and it was super simple and got a new set 5 min later. I twisted a torx t6 bit and got a new set.
rare time I disagree doc...but maybe I don't. I got a few snap on tools but frequent icon line because I don't have a tool truck once a week to my house. I can immediately exchange a tool at Harbor Freight no questions asked. I've had this set and find it easily worth the $40
Does your HF always have stuff you want to warranty in stock? I’ve had to wait weeks and frequently check the website for it to say “in stock now” and then race down to the store to grab what I need to exchange. Not saying the tool truck is better about it but still frustrating. Everybody always touts the I’ll just run down to the store and exchange it, what about when they don’t get another set of metric impact swivels in for a month (happened to me) lol
Just go to a different store, I live in a small town. Whatever I can’t find at mine I just go to the town over. Most times it’s really just that simple.
That Icon set is an awesome arrangement that I've had come in clutch quite a few times. The $40 price tag seems a bit steep, but it's not like you can't catch sales and coupons. Mine cost me about $30 after a coupon, though it can be fun finding one that doesn't exclude Icon stuff. Still, it was the first Icon tool I ever bought and I don't regret for a second.
The icon stuff is never excluded from those coupons They exclude Hercules and power the power tools and the compressors but never the icon hand tools I bought every icon hand tool I have at one of those coupons and I have a lot
If you think $40 is steep for the Icon set try getting a FACOM USAG MAC or TOPTUL version of this set which is made by the same manufacturer. The MAC is extremely expensive, and the other 3 options when they can be found in the US which is almost never will run you from $75-$90. You will get sockets with those other sets, but I don't think that justifies the price.
I am not sure if you intended to but, you sounded a bit offended that Harbor Freight might start to contend with some of the big guys. HF has been clear they intend to have more made in USA items and for their top tier icon line to push against some of the big boys for a fraction of cost. Its even been shown that a few of their tools appear to come out of same factory as the big boys. The wrench you showed from snapon was not a competing item. And as one commenter said he is on his 3rd Wiha set as ratchet strips where his icon set has held up. Like i said i dont know if you intended the tone to be a bit negative and quite possible you didnt intend for it to be. I think we need more iptions for the young guys getting in the trades that cant afford the tool trucks.
I've used this set for about a year, mainly on hex fasteners. I've used the extension and cranked on things I probably shouldn't, breaking loose bolts with 7 and 8 mm hex heads. I've never had it balk anything. I think the comparison price wise to Wiha and Vim is totally fair BUT the accessibility of warranty is the real kicker. Ever tried to warranty a tool from Vim or Wiha? I'm not saying it can't be done, but for a great majority of Americans they can drive right down to their local H&F and swap it out in minutes. I'm sure it's gonna be a little more complicated to warranty a Wiha product. Of course tool trucks give you the same convenience but at a much steeper price and I think there are a lot of industries where the tool truck doesn't even show up. I've never had the opportunity myself. That being said I dislike a lot of Icon tools. Hate the regular ratchets. In my experience for the price Gearwrench makes a much more refined product, at an even better price point in some situations. I also echo your sentiment on Knipex products. They aren't expensive enough to justify buying a knock off. However in the case of this set I'm sold, so much so that next time there's a sale opportunity I'll probably get a second one so I have one at home as well as at work.
@@jayc2193I do understand the thought and even agree with it. However the VIM is $36 and doesn't come with bits or case. Also with the icon you can walk in and swap it out with lifetime warranty. The Wiha strips out and the Wera is $75 (nice set) I would like to see price for equivalent Snapon set. Edit: Did some digging. Snapon doesn't seem to have a competitor offering and Mac is $100-$150 for equivalent set. The Mac wratchet alone is $75. So if this set is 85% of the quality for 1/3 the price is it worthwhile?
Use the icon set every day. The case is great, I know the ratchet and extension is rebranded but still great pieces. 40 bucks is well worth it for the time savings.
This ICON set is very popular in the EDC community because of the sturdy case and many options in a small package. Most users will not be hard use users but the occasional user, repairing your bicycle on the side of the road. So this set appears in various EDC YT videos and that increases the demant and the more demant the higher the retail price becomes. You have your own overland tool kit, but with the car weight and size do not matter that much. If you go by motorcycle, bicycle or on foot, weight and size compared to the possibilities suddenly become much more important. It is a mini toolbox with some loose sockets (for an EU bicycle 10,13,15mm) and with a Cobra you can get a long way without too much weight and space. I ride my bicycle a lot (main mode of transport) and have the Bahco-2058-S26-Bit-Socket set Knipex 150mm Cobra and Needle nose combination pliers.
Well said and I agree, that this Icon set is indeed very popular with the EDC community and I think HF has figured that out and why they've kept the price at its $40 level.
Me thinks thou doth protest too much Doc! This is a great set as you said at the beginning. Just wait for a HF sale and you can pick it up for less than $40. I also have the VIM tool that I paid $32 and some change for - without the bit set.
How many bits come with the VIM set..?...answer:0 They're not playing with the big boys.This is a much better option... They beat the big boys VIM has alot of great offerings but HF takes this one..not to mention they both got this design from Facom (Stanley-Black and Decker)
@kiwe3546 it's actually not less expensive..when you add the price for the bits you aren't getting with their set.. And yes S-B&D owns the Facom brand.. The Craftsman V-Series is alot of Facom style and design and engineering
Waiting for that as well. I have the Icon set sitting next to my my Wera Tool Check set. Sometimes one works better than the other. I really like both. With the new Icon version I can keep one set close and put the other two somewhere else.
@@scotts4125fyi the Wera bit ratchet is made by the same OEM who's name is HI-FIVE. If you look you'll notice they're both market " REVERSE GEAR " or " 1/4 GEAR " on the thumb wheel.
@@scotts4125 When they do offer it with sockets it will really be the king, because if you didn't know it's the same OEM ( the manufacturer is HI-FIVE ) as a bunch of others like FACOM USAG and TOPTUL who don't market their products much if at all in the US, and those companies offer their own brands of this set ( everybody has their own cosmetic differences in the handle of the ratchet ) with sockets which will run you $75-$90 when you can find one available or are willing to pay shipping from overseas. I'm sure it's no longer going to be $40 but it will still be a better deal than $75 for MAC's variant of just the ratchet by itself.
I own a couple of these. I think they're really great for the size and convenience of what it comes with and the amount of options it gives you. it's my go to for bit drivers
It's not a clone it's made in the same factory, and the manufacturer in Taiwan is HI-FIVE. They make the FACOM, USAG, BLACKHAWK, RUJOI,WERA,VIM, WURTH DEEN, ICON, 711L, TOPEAK, PRESTACYCLE, GM POWERTORQUE, and more brands that pop up all the time.
Just confirmed, I bought mine in 2023, list price was $45, but I must have had 20% off, because it came down to $35. Watch for coupons at Harbor Freight and strike while hot!
Sunex doesn't warranty their bits, nor does it come with a bit ratchet, so its not really a competing item. You definitely sound upset about the fact that the icon is competing with the big 3 at a fraction of the price. I personally prefer the tone set, as they are basically the same price, but the icon is awesome too!! It's definitely the cheapest set in this category.
Love this set and don’t see why all the hate, it’s super compact and reliable. I’ve used it in so many applications in the industrial maintenance work I do day to day. Worth every dollar in my opinion.
FWIW....the Snap On low profile thin Phillips driver is made by ANEX in Japan, they sell that in a 3pc set for about what SO sells a single for. But anyways.... Snap On wanted a super low profile driver to add to their range, it's makes absolute sense they would source it from Japan who do them best. Sometimes I'm critical of the products in Doc's videos or the content itself. However, I hit the like button for each & every video this channel uploads, the tool discussion community on YT is small & Doc makes videos basically each & every day. I'm very thankful for that.
@@mezamichael in aviation maintenance I’ve needed something like that probably 2-3 times so far this year. For home maintenance, vehicles, and other DIY things probably not much.. but if your not spending a fortune like you would if it says snap on, ($13 from NEIKO) it’s nice to have in case you need it.
I highly dislike spending lots of money on tools when I feel like the value doesn’t match the MSRP it’s labeled in store. This is one of the few times I splurged, and I absolutely LOVE this set. Worth the price here, it’s high quality, and has come in handy many many times
In my line of work i use these smaller type ratchets and bits all the time. I have used most brands, especially Wiha, the Icon hands down has been the most versatile and all around best tool for my needs, the shorter bits in my case, a big plus!
Just an FYI the manufacturer of this is a Taiwanese company called HI-FIVE. They make the FACOM, USAG,MAC, BLACKHAWK, TOPTUL, VIM, ICON, DEEN, KS TOOL, RUJOI, WERA ( yes they make the WERA ), GM POWERTORQUE, 711L TOPEAK, PRESTACYCLE and many many more with most of them being fixed head models. BTW these sets from FACOM USAG and TOPTUL have been around for almost 15 years at this point, and the cheapest you can get them when you can find one for sale here in the US is generally $75 up to as much as $90. Then there's the MAC which is about $60 for just the ratchet on it's own with no set available, or what about the VIM which was the only other option for the HI-FIVE flex head here in the US at $45 for just the ratchet extension and bit adapter. I understand what you're saying about the ICON line stepping out of HF's lane, but you're shooting at the wrong target here. In this situation they have brought the people a tool that was only offered to the US market by 2 companies, offered it in a set which had never before been made for the US market, and even offered it at a very reasonable price. They haven't done so enough to keep it on the shelves so I can get one, but at least I do actually have a chance now to get one for a price it's worth instead of spending $75-$90 on a foreign market offering. They have succeeded on judt price alone as Harbor freight is known to do.
I used the VIM version of this tool on my bike to get around wheels and chuck and take off my fenders and other parts. Also used it to fix my washer/dryer. That alone was worth paying for the tool.
I grabbed the icon set for around $30 on sale last year and it's been a workhorse for me. I was leaning towards the wiha set you have there, but went for the icon because of the sale price and because the ratchet has a few more features. It's on par with most of the other mini ratchet sets out there. From what I've been able to find online, one company makes most of those mini ratchets, including the wiha and wera variants.
Love the channel Doc. You didn't mention the price of the Vim ratchet and extension which is currently $33 and change on Amazon. That makes the Icon a bargain at $40 considering the case and bits. Of course nobody that regularly shops at Harbor Freight pays full price. You can get 20% off without trying very hard making this cheaper than the Vim and you get the case and bits as a bonus. I also think the multiple handle configurations put it above the Wera and similar small ratchet sets which are close in price after the discount on the Icon. When comparing prices (the recent Icon vs. Knipex and Snap-On videos come to mind) you really should consider the actual price of the Icon which is 20 to 30% below list with a little patience. Thanks for all you do.
Best IKEA assembly kit money can buy 🙂 Mine has seen a lot of action under the hood/dash of our van too. 100% recommend it even at the $40 asking price.
I’ve owned and used the Wiha, Wera, and Icon sets. Wiha is a great set for the money but beware the teeth on the gear head easily strip after some “hardish” use. On my 3rd set. The icon is built tougher in my opinion, hasn’t slipped or failed me and also why they advertise the extension being used to lengthen the handle so it may be able to handle the torque. The Wera has been great so far, neither my coworker or I have broken one yet. It does cost more than the Icon, but comes with sockets 🤔 Either way they’re all great tools to have to get into tight spots
The Facom R.180J31(and usag) was the first of it's kind the rest followed after. They are about double the price but the ratchet feels a nicer and they come with facom's high performance bits
@@drscopeify in both Facom and usag or are you saying the icon has the same bits as the Facom, which are facom's High Performance bits(that's the name of their bits)
I'm not sure how the FACOM would really feel nicer when they're both made by HI-FIVE. Maybe there are minor tolerances and one example can be a little different from the next ?
@@TylerSnyder305 the Facom has more weight to it, you can get it with two different ones which are the same two in the Mac SBDR3S 3pc set. Just because it's the same OEM doesn't mean it's all the same, every customer sets there own parameters and specs they want, the more you want with the better materials and higher QC the more they pay which is were most of the price differences come from
That Icon ratcheting bit driver set is phenomenal, even at $40. Don’t forget you can wait for a coupon at harbor freight too and get it even cheaper. I use that thing damn near daily in aviation maintenance and it’s definitely one of my favorite tools. Gonna snag one for the house too.
The VIM tool is close to the same price as the ICON but does not have the case or the bits. Harbor Freight has convenient locations and an excellent warranty, which is why many have purchased from them. Your question as to the direction of the company in regard to tool truck brands and competing directly is well received and time will tell. As a reseller, it is more profitable for HF to purchase and rebrand vs full development. Just observations.
The VIM is $33 for just the wrench, socket ext and adapter, unless you found it somewhere cheaper. I got the ICON on sale and it was less than that as the full kit.
I rarely buy anything from Harbor Freight but last year when this icon kit was flying off the shelves and super popular, I decided to buynit as a knock around but driver kit. Since thenmit has now turned into my everyday carry kit and has been super reliable, however a couple of weeks ago I finally changed out my bits for PB Swiss but still using the Icon flex head driver. This is the only good review I've ever had about anything from HF
Icon as you say is a reseller, but the value is the warranty. Can’t easily warranty stuff from online purchases. I collect the bit ratchets sets now. Wera tool check plus, Hazet ones, Tone ones, the Klein, the Sabrecut/Ares/Sealey, wiha, felo, prestacycle, gearwrench, and then the stahlwille and Hazet bit ratchets that are the same as the 1/4 ratchets. All of them give me some form of joy, but other than doing some screws on door speakers on my 993 I have never needed one (I got that done with the little craftsman bent screwdriver). The Felo in the classic edition (wood case) for British vehicles (no 12mm or 14mm) and the Tone MIX21620MBK for Japanese (has 12mm and 14mm) and the Hazet 2300SH-1 (or 2200 or the fold open Porsche Motorsports one) for German. Nice to have one riding around with me, and fun to collect, but again, it’s not something I find I use. I mean I use a ratchet or a screwdriver a lot, other than a poor design, you should never really need a bit ratchet.
Wait, how can you get SSFP2 for $10? Current pricing on the website is ~$24 (or about ~$50 with shipping). That's also just for one bit (PH2) - that doesn't seem quite a fair comparison. Anyway, that icon set was my introduction to HF about a year ago - it's been a great set, and is now the one that rides in the center console of my truck. I get that maybe HF has a lot of reputational baggage (sort of the opposite situation compared to Snapon, i guess), but i think i see them trying to improve their tool quality, move sourcing out of china, and maybe eventually improve brand reputation. I've even noticed them adding a handful of US-made tools in the Icon line in the past year (pry bars, snapring pliers, inline wire strippers, etc). Maybe i'm a sucker, but i guess i'm rooting for them to suceed with these sorts of moves, whether or not the cart lurches out in front of the horse once in a while - if their marketing department wants to fake it until they make it, that's fine with me as long as the tool quality is continually improving.
The ICON set is soooo good, that I ended up purchasing 2 (both times with 15% coupons). One is in the tool box, one in the bicycle repair bag. Now as for the WIHA set......"krap". The magnet inside the ratchet kept coming out so I ended up supergluing it in place.
I have that Wera set sitting there that I also added an 11 and 9mm to (adding a couple extra metal pieces for the rail from a HB rail) and also added a larger swivel head 1/4” ratchet. I use a tactical rubber band and attach the Makita 1/4” impact sockets to the ICON and then I put together my own kit using a small EDC zip pouch. Keep one in each car. I love the ICON.
I have the original Facom set which has the additional advantage of 1/4” drive sockets up to 14mm as well. Very expensive at the time, (2008?) but I used it every day at work until I retired in 2019. Perfect for a variety of tasks but mostly removing panels etc on machinery and light dismantling. Easily my most used tools on the road it paid for itself many times over, so $40 seems reasonable for this Icon set. I’d still want the sockets though…
I have a purchased a couple Icon bit sets now. I even have to cross the usa/canada boarder to get them. (only 25 min drive form me). Definitely a good set for the money. I know the ratchet is rebranded by a few different brands but as a small kit its a awesome deal. i work on german cars with vary tight working spots and flex head is awesome.. i could not do by job with a single fixed angle head. My 3 piece fixed head angle blue-point (snapon) bit ratchets just sit in the tool box now. No need to swap bit ratchets when i need a different angle now.
I have that Icon kit and I love it. One thing everyone knows about harbor freight is you never buy retail, always use a coupon. But overall this kit has gotten me out of a lot of tight jams. One thing I have noted is that the Phillips #2 is not to great. I often switch to my Milwaukee #2 because it's just got a superior byte and as much as I want to keep that kit as is, I may slowly replace bits with better ones as needed.
I got mine for like 32$ a while back down in Utah Used it on my motorcycle and my 3d printer and I’ve had no issues with it It’s worth the price to me even at 40
The VIM ratchet and extension on amazon is $33 right now. Why would I pay $33 for that, when I can get the ICON kit with the ratchet and extension, bits, case, and harbor freight warranty for the same price? (assuming purchased with a coupon) With ICON tools, I admit that a little research goes a long way. Some ICON tools are identical to rebranded tools used by some tool truck companies and are very high quality, and some ICON tools are cheap pieces of Chinese junk. I am glad harbor freight has the ICON line. You can still buy super cheap Pittsburgh tools if that is what you are after, or you can buy ICON tools, many of which are very nice. As long as no intellectual property rights or designs are stolen or illegally claimed, I see no downside to increased competition in the US.
I’m an appliance service tech and installer and I love this icon set I use it every day it’s held up great and I put the torque to it, one thing I use it to do is level the front legs when I install big 48” subzero fridges
Any tips on how to pull out a G.E. front loader on a pedestal in a tight space? Counter on one side and dryer on the other. Cabinets above almost touching the top. I have pulled it before with help but trying to do it on my own. It's 4 years old. The drain pump went out last year. Bought an OEM drain pump. Ohmed out the old one and it was out of spec. Put a new pump in no change. The only thing that made sense was the control board. That was fun to take out. I think I counted 16 connections to it. Sure enough huge burn mark on it. I figure the board took the pump out. New board fixed it. Now the inlet valves are squealing so I bought a new OEM set but I need to pull it out. Also going to replace the hoses and the steam hose on the matching dryer while back there. Damn thing is heavy AF as the kids say. :)
Walmart carries a similar offering from Hart for 27 bucks. I don't know if it has the capabilities about using the extension for extra leverage or a T-handle, but the ratchet is a flex head with the same black button, so I'm assuming it locks like the Icon does. What to really be on the lookout for at Walmart is quick change 1/4 hex bit ratchet adapters that both Hart and Hyper Tough make. I saw ones for 3/8 and 1/2 inch drive from Hyper Tough (My store didn't have any Hart versions in stock) for around 5 bucks a piece. I got two of each 3/8 & 1/2 inch. If I come across 1/4 inch drive version I'll grab that too. Was so happy to see them I considered emptying the shelf pegs. 😂 I'm going to pair them up with my swivel head 3/8 & 1/2 inch ratchets. I LOVE that type of ratchet.
I’ve watched your videos for years but I must say…recently you’re starting to sound like a tool snob and almost offended that companies are doing things better than some of your coveted brands. Be more open minded. I’ve kept that icon set in my truck console for a few years now and it has served me very well.
I think where this stands out is the case and how complete the set is for the average person that can walk into a store to pick it up. This would be a great compact kit for motorcycles that you can throw in the saddle bag.
I added a belt clip to mine that I bought on Amazon. I think it was for a holster and I found some low profile screws and nuts so it would not protrude too much into the case.
I own two sets and got the second one just for the ratchet to keep in my EDC tool bag. I was going to get the VIM ratchet, but the Icon was only a few dollars more and I got a whole bit set with it. For my tool bag, I wanted the slightly shorter ratchet anyway, as it fit with my kit better.
I have the Icon set, I also have a set from Wurth (German higher end). Both flex ratchets are identical. Literally looks like they were made in the same factory. The only difference is handle length. The bits are different and Wurth has sockets in the kit as well . But the ratchet definitely is the same
Gearwrench has a set w sockets and a 1/4 and 5/16 ratchet on the same wrench w a nice thumb wheel on the back. That’s my favorite one and a little cheaper than the icon if you don’t get it from the Mac truck
I saw that the ICON and Vim Flex Head Ratcheting Set were probably made in the same factory. I bought the VIM Set (FRBS89) on sale since it had more bits than the Icon set. Harbor Freight is adding better tools. I have bought some of the ICON Snap-On clone pliers and they seem every bit as good the Snap-On at one third of the price. As a home gamer, I can’t justify the extra money. I own a set of Snap-On Long Nose Slip Joint Pliers (LN47ACF) pliers, this plier is my go to plier, and looking forward to the clone coming out so I can add a few additional sets around the house without breaking the bank. Sometimes Harbor Freight is not the cheapest - sometimes is Amazon not the cheapest - one has to shop around.
Amazing little kit. I replaced the entire first/bottom row a Milwaukee sae hex set. Full coverage on torx, metric, and sae. This replaces Allen wrenches in the tool bag. The $30ish vessel bit set is a favorite of mine too. Check that out Doc.
I paid $40 for an ICON 1/4" ratchet sometime back without reading reviews or looking into alternatives. Turned out that it had massive backdrag and priced more than better performing ratchets from other brands. Couldn't return it without a restocking fee once it was open too. If Harbor Freight wants to charge such prices, they also need to up the value proposition for them.
I initially bristled a bit at the $40 tag, but after using it for a bit, it’s worth every penny. An equivalent snap-on set would likely be at least $150. Facom’s is about $100 or more. $25 or $30 would feel better from HF, but $40 with a LTW is certainly reasonable for what you’re getting.
I mean, yeah you could buy different sets with tons of bits. I don’t think that’s the original intended purpose of this. I can’t throw those huge sets in my glove box. I cannot throw them In my ATV glove box. I believe they’re just different tools for different applications
A three-piece VIM rachet set with no bits is currently $37 on Amazon. The ICON seems like a deal comparatively. The ICON rachet is a little shorter. I'm building an off-road motorcycle kit and have looked at many combinations of rachets, bits, etc. The ICON kit is reasonable, for sure, unless one is going for saving a few bucks on the cheap. I'd look at something more refined if I were using it to make a living
That icon kit might be the only Icon tool I've gotten that I didn't eventually upgrade to something nicer. The only thing I wish is that they had a kit available with a set of 1/4 inch sockets. My only complaint really is that the ratchet in the kit is pretty shoddy, but the extension/t-handle function of it kind of makes up for it.
You're mostly wrong about your assessment. The 35 piece Wiha, the actual true equivalent, is $50.00. There is essentially no comparable kit for less than the Icon. $40.00 isn't a big ask. That 32 piece Wiha is 29.99 from one third party seller on Amazon and I suspect it's a fire sale.
I have that Icon set. I wanted a locking flex head driver, and the VIM is basically the same price without any bits, plus it's so easy to get another one if I break it. I'd like it better if it was $10, but I buy things one at a time. I even have a couple of Snap-On tools, because they had something I wanted and couldn't find anyplace else. My guess is HF saw a chance to package something they could sell, and wouldn't be surprised if they do that same thing with every single tool they offer. I don't see any sign there is a plan to try to replace Snap-On or anybody else, although I do wish they'd come out with a copy of those slip-joint needle-nose pliers. Otherwise I'll have to order them from Snap-On.
Come on Doc, you can’t accuse Harbor Freight of being a “rebrander” without also pointing the finger at the biggest offender: SNAP-ON! Sure they make some on their own. Other stuff is just Bahco/Knipex/etc through the years with a swapped logo and different colors. Butane soldering iron they charge through the nose for? Just a rebranded Weller in Hi Viz if you want. Fine if you want the truck service; fine if you want to spend the money. But don’t pretend like SNA or Matco or MAC don’t do the same thing (and charge MORE for it). This HF set is the cats meow. Not everything ICON is but some stands up. Their double flex head box end ratcheting wrenches are exactly the same as the Mountain wrenches (or any of the other brands reselling the stuff out of the same factory). And cheaper with a coupon. Their Knipex knock-offs? Not as good and not worth the savings IMO. Hammers? Either get the cheapo or get the snapon. Every brand has some stuff they knock out of the park and some stuff that’s trash for the price.
Reason I buy Icon is because life time warranty. I can just take it back to the store and get a new one. I dont own a shop, Im a dump truck owner operator and dont have a tool truck that comes to me. So its just the ease of exchange for me. Pay $40 for that icon bit set, have it for life.
It’s a facom clone kit and facom charges 2x the price. This is not a new idea. It’s so popular because the facom kit never caught on and people don’t know about it and it’s a phenomenal design for light use.
Love that Icon set Most use cases than anything that was compared to it. And a Lifetime warranty ALSO Snap On Rebrands alllllll the time. Sounds like They are taking a page out of Snap Ons Book and using it against them
Don't be one of those guys...The guys who hate Harbor Freight just to hate them. It a great little set, I've had it for a few years and its worth every penny. I actually have 2. I have some Snap-on and some HF and everything between. I like to say I have a lot of tools, but then I watch someone like Doc on UA-cam that seem to have everything ever made. Anyway, my point is I have many tools and have had tools since I first started to buy them in 1978. Harbor Freight was a place I never bought from, but recently, the last 2 to 3 maybe 4 years they have changed my mind. They are not as good as Snap-on or others, don't believe what all the miserly folks say...but they are decent. Or at least some of the stuff they sell is decent and can be a great value. I still buy Snap-on off a truck every so often, about $300 to $400 last month or so. I know tools and understand quality. HF is worth a look, and this little kit is a perfect example of that. Buy smart and chose carefully. I was once a mechanic, many years ago. Then Air Force working on F-16s, a house builder with 40+ guys working for me for almost a decade and now 34 years running a big crew of building Maintenance guys. doing all sorts of trades, including keeping the company vehicles running. The right tool is important, at a price that takes into consideration usage, (light or heavy) loss, (by theft or neglect) and many other factors. If you can afford to buy only from the big boys, no matter what, then good for you, I'm jealous. To the rest of you, chose wisely my friends and don't let the nay saying (fill in the blank here) stop you from saving a buck when you can.
I have the Icon set and use it all the time I do service work on assembly machines in a lot different plants. The VIM ratchet and extension cost about what the Icon set cost. And everyone has always copied tools. If something goes wrong with my Icon set I can easily get it warranted all the rest I have to play game's with robots on the phone. I had a gearwrench set that had the worst case it was hard plastic didn't hold the bits tight. I went through 2 sets. The Icon is very robust and they are coming out with a new set that will include sockets. I'll be in line for that set. And why would buy something 4 times the cost when I can get the same LIFETIME WARRANTY
I am an industrial maintenance technician. I have had a lot Doyle Icon and Pittsburgh stuff also stuff from northern tool. I have to say it has been great value. I put a cheater pipe on my ratchet and broke it. Walked in to harbor freight with it and they didn’t blink an eye at replacing it. Let your Snap-on guy know you put a pipe on it and broke it. They might just tell you to kick rocks. Mess up a screwdriver and get a whole new one at harbor freight. Snap-on will only replace the Handel or the tip. Which ever is bad. My 56” US-General tool box has been rolled who knows how many miles in a 750,000 sq foot building over 12 years and is still going strong. Truthfully the only junk tools I have bought have been Milwaukee impact and drill. They were garbage lots of other people have had the same experience with them. Went and replaced them with Hercules stuff and haven’t had any complaints at all. Why would anybody step foot on a rape wagon the value isn’t there. And don’t say well professional auto technicians use their stuff more. The stuff I work on has sent auto techs running for the hills and make cars look like toys.
Not when many of the " big boys " offer their own variants of this set from the same manufacturer for $75-$90 when you can even find one available in the US since they don't market their tools here. Hell MAC has a variant of this HI-FIVE manufactured bit ratchet and it's $75 for just the ratchet, I never saw a set but if they offer one I wouldn't be surprised if it was $150.
That set is worth every cent I use it many configurations Quality bits HF now carries decent tools at a decent price They still have plenty of garbage too Knipex and Snapon are better tools but icon Quinn and Doyle are decent and while icon isn’t cheap it’s not as pricey as knipex or Snapon
Funny thing is, I bought that set about a year ago and I thought I did it based on a review from THIS channel. Lol. Guess I'm getting my youtube reviewers messed up. Anyway, the set is very nice. I'm happy with it. And, fwiw, I'm not sure it was $40 when I bought it. Might have been on sale or something.
It's made in the same factory. PRESTACYCLE, TOPEAK, GM POWERTORQUE, VIM, TOPTUL,FACOM, USAG, MAC, WERA, 711L , ICON, and the list goes on they're all made by the same manufacturer . If it says " REVERSE GEAR " or " 1/4 GEAR " on the thumb wheel it was made by HI-FIVE in Taiwan, formally named REVERSE GEAR. There are so many bicycle tool companies offering various HI-FIVE bit ratchets, or at least using the HI-FIVE manufactured mechanism.
@@TylerSnyder305 already figured that out one factory -- many brands... but the quality can be different but this one does not have the flex head which was the point of this comment
A great set for sure. I too was surprised by the price. I don't think of HB Icon in that way. I see some of that marketing in the new Icon knife at the same price point. I don't think for price point of either will drive away buyers. Seems like a good market test.
I'm not sure what the point or message was here. This set is clearly along the lines of HF's moto. More for less. It's a higher end tool at a higher end price than their low-tier stuff, but much cheaper than similar products from others. The VIM equivalent is $50 and doesn't include a bit set or case. The king of the hill, Wera Tool-Check, is closer to $100. The Wiha doesn't include as many bits nor is it a flex head nor extendable handle. So... This is Harbor Freight doing what they've always done. MORE tool for LESS price. This little set has been on my "wanted" list for about a year now. It'll be a great compliment to my Tool-Check inside my "Go bag" Tech-MCT
I’m terrible. I have every set you showed but the sunex and multiple copies of all of them. You are missing the best one though. The gear wrench/ Mac set is the best. I actually have the icon ratchet in that case w the sockets and different bets and adapters. I rarely use it but it does help working on covana covers. All the sets including the icon are missing the square bits that are more and more common. My original set was the gearwrench/ Mac set branded as husky. I looked for it for years and only found it as Mac for a lot more. Finally it came out as gearwrench and you can get it for $35. It’s great for just having a little 1/4 and 5/16 ratchet on the same wrench too
Buy the VIM VHC77. Nothing else like it for tight spaces. The new case is much nicer too than the one I have. Waiting for them to stock the new case so I can swap mine out.
I used a coupon and got this set. It more than paid for itself after i got pulled over by a state trooper who let me go with a "fix your taillight" when he spotted another car he liked better. It was able to get into the awkward space where a larger tool would have been difficult at best.
Atleast with HF branded "lifetime warranty" tools it's one of the few companies that does easy in store no hassle exchanges/replacements, and typically local locations. (Atleast in my experience the free and purchased extended warranties have been excellent, at two different locations) So fast and easy it's reminiscent of swapping craftsman tools at Sears! The only real downside is replacement of LOST or REPLACEMENT parts that cannot be warrantied which requires calling a number and ordering, but it's still from HF service/parts/customer service center in California I think? So it's not terrible... I currently have a missing 14mm socket I need to order 😒 but have had good luck with parts for non warranties in the past, as long as the product is still in production since they re-design, re-name, or stop selling many tools/products every few years... I've been happy with HF, out of the 5-6 or so stores I've dealt with only one has consistently been TERRIBLE with management/stocking/inventory management/customer service and it's my closest store 🙄 Luckily the next store away is probably the best managed HF I've ever witnessed!
I like the Facom kit with that ratchet. Facom has a couple different mini ratchet kits. The kit with the mini flex head ratchet, bits, and a few sockets is my favorite. Very handy and compact. I have the VIM branded flex ratchet. It has held up surprisingly good but my all time favorite and the best "in my opinion" mini ratchet kit is the Super Deluxe set from Wadsworth Falls. Not cheap, but is worth it easily. EXTREMLY durable and tough. Very well made of excellent steel. Doc, check out the Wadsworth Falls Super Deluxe mini ratchet set. You will thank me!
$40 is really steep for Harbor Freight, but I really like their warranty process. I prefer icon snips over 'name brand' because its so much easier to swap out a dull pair, in store.
Mac makes the best ratcheting screwdriver set, also has a t handle driver and a bit driver adapter and everything’s magnetic for about $175. Expensive but nowhere near snap on price however the quality is excellent and def a daily use tool
It's 100% worth the 40 dollars. Nice compact kit and it has a life time warranty. I had one set that I had to put their warranty to the test and it was super simple and got a new set 5 min later. I twisted a torx t6 bit and got a new set.
Doc just can't stand that the Icon set is so good. Love it.
Who in their right mind would pay $500 for the Snap On set. I don't care if you do have Doc's money, that's just plain ole stupid.
rare time I disagree doc...but maybe I don't. I got a few snap on tools but frequent icon line because I don't have a tool truck once a week to my house. I can immediately exchange a tool at Harbor Freight no questions asked. I've had this set and find it easily worth the $40
Does your HF always have stuff you want to warranty in stock? I’ve had to wait weeks and frequently check the website for it to say “in stock now” and then race down to the store to grab what I need to exchange. Not saying the tool truck is better about it but still frustrating. Everybody always touts the I’ll just run down to the store and exchange it, what about when they don’t get another set of metric impact swivels in for a month (happened to me) lol
Just go to a different store, I live in a small town. Whatever I can’t find at mine I just go to the town over. Most times it’s really just that simple.
That Icon set is an awesome arrangement that I've had come in clutch quite a few times. The $40 price tag seems a bit steep, but it's not like you can't catch sales and coupons. Mine cost me about $30 after a coupon, though it can be fun finding one that doesn't exclude Icon stuff. Still, it was the first Icon tool I ever bought and I don't regret for a second.
The icon stuff is never excluded from those coupons They exclude Hercules and power the power tools and the compressors but never the icon hand tools I bought every icon hand tool I have at one of those coupons and I have a lot
If you think $40 is steep for the Icon set try getting a FACOM USAG MAC or TOPTUL version of this set which is made by the same manufacturer.
The MAC is extremely expensive, and the other 3 options when they can be found in the US which is almost never will run you from $75-$90.
You will get sockets with those other sets, but I don't think that justifies the price.
I am not sure if you intended to but, you sounded a bit offended that Harbor Freight might start to contend with some of the big guys. HF has been clear they intend to have more made in USA items and for their top tier icon line to push against some of the big boys for a fraction of cost. Its even been shown that a few of their tools appear to come out of same factory as the big boys. The wrench you showed from snapon was not a competing item. And as one commenter said he is on his 3rd Wiha set as ratchet strips where his icon set has held up. Like i said i dont know if you intended the tone to be a bit negative and quite possible you didnt intend for it to be. I think we need more iptions for the young guys getting in the trades that cant afford the tool trucks.
He’s prob just sour that Icon is putting out tools close to Snap on quality at 1/4 the price with a better warranty.
I think he’s more suggesting that Icon should continue their value pricing. 6:32 for reference.
I've used this set for about a year, mainly on hex fasteners. I've used the extension and cranked on things I probably shouldn't, breaking loose bolts with 7 and 8 mm hex heads. I've never had it balk anything.
I think the comparison price wise to Wiha and Vim is totally fair BUT the accessibility of warranty is the real kicker. Ever tried to warranty a tool from Vim or Wiha? I'm not saying it can't be done, but for a great majority of Americans they can drive right down to their local H&F and swap it out in minutes. I'm sure it's gonna be a little more complicated to warranty a Wiha product.
Of course tool trucks give you the same convenience but at a much steeper price and I think there are a lot of industries where the tool truck doesn't even show up. I've never had the opportunity myself.
That being said I dislike a lot of Icon tools. Hate the regular ratchets. In my experience for the price Gearwrench makes a much more refined product, at an even better price point in some situations. I also echo your sentiment on Knipex products. They aren't expensive enough to justify buying a knock off. However in the case of this set I'm sold, so much so that next time there's a sale opportunity I'll probably get a second one so I have one at home as well as at work.
@@jayc2193I do understand the thought and even agree with it. However the VIM is $36 and doesn't come with bits or case. Also with the icon you can walk in and swap it out with lifetime warranty. The Wiha strips out and the Wera is $75 (nice set) I would like to see price for equivalent Snapon set.
Edit: Did some digging. Snapon doesn't seem to have a competitor offering and Mac is $100-$150 for equivalent set. The Mac wratchet alone is $75.
So if this set is 85% of the quality for 1/3 the price is it worthwhile?
I couldn’t find your video.
Use the icon set every day. The case is great, I know the ratchet and extension is rebranded but still great pieces. 40 bucks is well worth it for the time savings.
This ICON set is very popular in the EDC community because of the sturdy case and many options in a small package. Most users will not be hard use users but the occasional user, repairing your bicycle on the side of the road. So this set appears in various EDC YT videos and that increases the demant and the more demant the higher the retail price becomes. You have your own overland tool kit, but with the car weight and size do not matter that much. If you go by motorcycle, bicycle or on foot, weight and size compared to the possibilities suddenly become much more important. It is a mini toolbox with some loose sockets (for an EU bicycle 10,13,15mm) and with a Cobra you can get a long way without too much weight and space. I ride my bicycle a lot (main mode of transport) and have the Bahco-2058-S26-Bit-Socket set Knipex 150mm Cobra and Needle nose combination pliers.
Well said and I agree, that this Icon set is indeed very popular with the EDC community and I think HF has figured that out and why they've kept the price at its $40 level.
I have that Icon set and it’s great! Never heard of vim. Play with the big guys for that? Whose are the big guys here and are they worthy?
Yap all you want. Nobody makes anything in that configuration with that price.
Me thinks thou doth protest too much Doc! This is a great set as you said at the beginning. Just wait for a HF sale and you can pick it up for less than $40. I also have the VIM tool that I paid $32 and some change for - without the bit set.
How many bits come with the VIM set..?...answer:0
They're not playing with the big boys.This is a much better option... They beat the big boys
VIM has alot of great offerings but HF takes this one..not to mention they both got this design from Facom (Stanley-Black and Decker)
@kiwe3546 it's actually not less expensive..when you add the price for the bits you aren't getting with their set..
And yes S-B&D owns the Facom brand..
The Craftsman V-Series is alot of Facom style and design and engineering
Icons new version is supposed be coming out with sockets included in the set
Waiting for that as well. I have the Icon set sitting next to my my Wera Tool Check set. Sometimes one works better than the other. I really like both. With the new Icon version I can keep one set close and put the other two somewhere else.
I heard that too and I am waiting to buy it when they add the sockets...
@@scotts4125fyi the Wera bit ratchet is made by the same OEM who's name is HI-FIVE.
If you look you'll notice they're both market " REVERSE GEAR " or " 1/4 GEAR " on the thumb wheel.
@@scotts4125
When they do offer it with sockets it will really be the king, because if you didn't know it's the same OEM ( the manufacturer is HI-FIVE ) as a bunch of others like FACOM USAG and TOPTUL who don't market their products much if at all in the US, and those companies offer their own brands of this set ( everybody has their own cosmetic differences in the handle of the ratchet ) with sockets which will run you $75-$90 when you can find one available or are willing to pay shipping from overseas.
I'm sure it's no longer going to be $40 but it will still be a better deal than $75 for MAC's variant of just the ratchet by itself.
Where did you hear this from? I'm planning on buying this set. Maybe I should hold out?
I own a couple of these. I think they're really great for the size and convenience of what it comes with and the amount of options it gives you. it's my go to for bit drivers
When that came out that was a clone of the Facom bit Kit.
I'm surprised he didn't mention that. The Facom was around with many videos well before the VIM.
It's not a clone it's made in the same factory, and the manufacturer in Taiwan is HI-FIVE.
They make the FACOM, USAG, BLACKHAWK, RUJOI,WERA,VIM, WURTH DEEN, ICON, 711L, TOPEAK, PRESTACYCLE, GM POWERTORQUE, and more brands that pop up all the time.
I was also under the understanding its a 72 tooth, not a 60 tooth ratchet.
Just confirmed, I bought mine in 2023, list price was $45, but I must have had 20% off, because it came down to $35. Watch for coupons at Harbor Freight and strike while hot!
Sunex doesn't warranty their bits, nor does it come with a bit ratchet, so its not really a competing item. You definitely sound upset about the fact that the icon is competing with the big 3 at a fraction of the price. I personally prefer the tone set, as they are basically the same price, but the icon is awesome too!! It's definitely the cheapest set in this category.
Love this set and don’t see why all the hate, it’s super compact and reliable. I’ve used it in so many applications in the industrial maintenance work I do day to day. Worth every dollar in my opinion.
FWIW....the Snap On low profile thin Phillips driver is made by ANEX in Japan, they sell that in a 3pc set for about what SO sells a single for. But anyways.... Snap On wanted a super low profile driver to add to their range, it's makes absolute sense they would source it from Japan who do them best.
Sometimes I'm critical of the products in Doc's videos or the content itself. However, I hit the like button for each & every video this channel uploads, the tool discussion community on YT is small & Doc makes videos basically each & every day. I'm very thankful for that.
You happen to know the part number on the ANEX 3pc set? I love my anex and vessel ball handle drivers.
5pc set by Neiko: NEIKO 01323A
How often will a fastener with a #2 head that requires that slim of a tool, be short enough to extract? I'm sure there is a case but oh so rare.
@@mezamichael in aviation maintenance I’ve needed something like that probably 2-3 times so far this year. For home maintenance, vehicles, and other DIY things probably not much.. but if your not spending a fortune like you would if it says snap on, ($13 from NEIKO) it’s nice to have in case you need it.
I highly dislike spending lots of money on tools when I feel like the value doesn’t match the MSRP it’s labeled in store.
This is one of the few times I splurged, and I absolutely LOVE this set.
Worth the price here, it’s high quality, and has come in handy many many times
In my line of work i use these smaller type ratchets and bits all the time. I have used most brands, especially Wiha, the Icon hands down has been the most versatile and all around best tool for my needs, the shorter bits in my case, a big plus!
Just an FYI the manufacturer of this is a Taiwanese company called HI-FIVE.
They make the FACOM, USAG,MAC, BLACKHAWK, TOPTUL, VIM, ICON, DEEN, KS TOOL, RUJOI, WERA ( yes they make the WERA ), GM POWERTORQUE, 711L TOPEAK, PRESTACYCLE and many many more with most of them being fixed head models.
BTW these sets from FACOM USAG and TOPTUL have been around for almost 15 years at this point, and the cheapest you can get them when you can find one for sale here in the US is generally $75 up to as much as $90.
Then there's the MAC which is about $60 for just the ratchet on it's own with no set available, or what about the VIM which was the only other option for the HI-FIVE flex head here in the US at $45 for just the ratchet extension and bit adapter.
I understand what you're saying about the ICON line stepping out of HF's lane, but you're shooting at the wrong target here.
In this situation they have brought the people a tool that was only offered to the US market by 2 companies, offered it in a set which had never before been made for the US market, and even offered it at a very reasonable price.
They haven't done so enough to keep it on the shelves so I can get one, but at least I do actually have a chance now to get one for a price it's worth instead of spending $75-$90 on a foreign market offering.
They have succeeded on judt price alone as Harbor freight is known to do.
I used the VIM version of this tool on my bike to get around wheels and chuck and take off my fenders and other parts. Also used it to fix my washer/dryer. That alone was worth paying for the tool.
I grabbed the icon set for around $30 on sale last year and it's been a workhorse for me. I was leaning towards the wiha set you have there, but went for the icon because of the sale price and because the ratchet has a few more features. It's on par with most of the other mini ratchet sets out there. From what I've been able to find online, one company makes most of those mini ratchets, including the wiha and wera variants.
Love the channel Doc. You didn't mention the price of the Vim ratchet and extension which is currently $33 and change on Amazon. That makes the Icon a bargain at $40 considering the case and bits. Of course nobody that regularly shops at Harbor Freight pays full price. You can get 20% off without trying very hard making this cheaper than the Vim and you get the case and bits as a bonus. I also think the multiple handle configurations put it above the Wera and similar small ratchet sets which are close in price after the discount on the Icon.
When comparing prices (the recent Icon vs. Knipex and Snap-On videos come to mind) you really should consider the actual price of the Icon which is 20 to 30% below list with a little patience.
Thanks for all you do.
Best IKEA assembly kit money can buy 🙂 Mine has seen a lot of action under the hood/dash of our van too. 100% recommend it even at the $40 asking price.
I’ve owned and used the Wiha, Wera, and Icon sets. Wiha is a great set for the money but beware the teeth on the gear head easily strip after some “hardish” use. On my 3rd set. The icon is built tougher in my opinion, hasn’t slipped or failed me and also why they advertise the extension being used to lengthen the handle so it may be able to handle the torque. The Wera has been great so far, neither my coworker or I have broken one yet. It does cost more than the Icon, but comes with sockets 🤔 Either way they’re all great tools to have to get into tight spots
Love my Icon kit. Quality, versatile, and a great little case. Use a coupon and it’s a great deal too. Thanks for sharing!
The Facom R.180J31(and usag) was the first of it's kind the rest followed after. They are about double the price but the ratchet feels a nicer and they come with facom's high performance bits
The bits are the same in both sets.
@@drscopeify in both Facom and usag or are you saying the icon has the same bits as the Facom, which are facom's High Performance bits(that's the name of their bits)
I'm not sure how the FACOM would really feel nicer when they're both made by HI-FIVE.
Maybe there are minor tolerances and one example can be a little different from the next ?
@@TylerSnyder305 the Facom has more weight to it, you can get it with two different ones which are the same two in the Mac SBDR3S 3pc set. Just because it's the same OEM doesn't mean it's all the same, every customer sets there own parameters and specs they want, the more you want with the better materials and higher QC the more they pay which is were most of the price differences come from
What’s with the hate, doc? This Icon set is a great and most tool trucks don’t even carry it… so why the hate?
On sale for 24.99 tomorrow and I’m for sure grabbing one.
That Icon ratcheting bit driver set is phenomenal, even at $40. Don’t forget you can wait for a coupon at harbor freight too and get it even cheaper. I use that thing damn near daily in aviation maintenance and it’s definitely one of my favorite tools. Gonna snag one for the house too.
The VIM tool is close to the same price as the ICON but does not have the case or the bits. Harbor Freight has convenient locations and an excellent warranty, which is why many have purchased from them. Your question as to the direction of the company in regard to tool truck brands and competing directly is well received and time will tell. As a reseller, it is more profitable for HF to purchase and rebrand vs full development. Just observations.
I carry that every day, but i got it for $30... and switched some bits for wihas
The VIM is $33 for just the wrench, socket ext and adapter, unless you found it somewhere cheaper. I got the ICON on sale and it was less than that as the full kit.
I rarely buy anything from Harbor Freight but last year when this icon kit was flying off the shelves and super popular, I decided to buynit as a knock around but driver kit. Since thenmit has now turned into my everyday carry kit and has been super reliable, however a couple of weeks ago I finally changed out my bits for PB Swiss but still using the Icon flex head driver. This is the only good review I've ever had about anything from HF
Icon as you say is a reseller, but the value is the warranty. Can’t easily warranty stuff from online purchases. I collect the bit ratchets sets now. Wera tool check plus, Hazet ones, Tone ones, the Klein, the Sabrecut/Ares/Sealey, wiha, felo, prestacycle, gearwrench, and then the stahlwille and Hazet bit ratchets that are the same as the 1/4 ratchets. All of them give me some form of joy, but other than doing some screws on door speakers on my 993 I have never needed one (I got that done with the little craftsman bent screwdriver). The Felo in the classic edition (wood case) for British vehicles (no 12mm or 14mm) and the Tone MIX21620MBK for Japanese (has 12mm and 14mm) and the Hazet 2300SH-1 (or 2200 or the fold open Porsche Motorsports one) for German. Nice to have one riding around with me, and fun to collect, but again, it’s not something I find I use. I mean I use a ratchet or a screwdriver a lot, other than a poor design, you should never really need a bit ratchet.
Absolutely love mine, put some essential sockets on a mini rail and carry it daily along with my leatherman wave. Makes a great EDC kit
Wait, how can you get SSFP2 for $10? Current pricing on the website is ~$24 (or about ~$50 with shipping). That's also just for one bit (PH2) - that doesn't seem quite a fair comparison. Anyway, that icon set was my introduction to HF about a year ago - it's been a great set, and is now the one that rides in the center console of my truck. I get that maybe HF has a lot of reputational baggage (sort of the opposite situation compared to Snapon, i guess), but i think i see them trying to improve their tool quality, move sourcing out of china, and maybe eventually improve brand reputation. I've even noticed them adding a handful of US-made tools in the Icon line in the past year (pry bars, snapring pliers, inline wire strippers, etc). Maybe i'm a sucker, but i guess i'm rooting for them to suceed with these sorts of moves, whether or not the cart lurches out in front of the horse once in a while - if their marketing department wants to fake it until they make it, that's fine with me as long as the tool quality is continually improving.
The ICON set is soooo good, that I ended up purchasing 2 (both times with 15% coupons). One is in the tool box, one in the bicycle repair bag.
Now as for the WIHA set......"krap". The magnet inside the ratchet kept coming out so I ended up supergluing it in place.
I have that Wera set sitting there that I also added an 11 and 9mm to (adding a couple extra metal pieces for the rail from a HB rail) and also added a larger swivel head 1/4” ratchet. I use a tactical rubber band and attach the Makita 1/4” impact sockets to the ICON and then I put together my own kit using a small EDC zip pouch. Keep one in each car. I love the ICON.
I have the original Facom set which has the additional advantage of 1/4” drive sockets up to 14mm as well. Very expensive at the time, (2008?) but I used it every day at work until I retired in 2019. Perfect for a variety of tasks but mostly removing panels etc on machinery and light dismantling. Easily my most used tools on the road it paid for itself many times over, so $40 seems reasonable for this Icon set. I’d still want the sockets though…
I have a purchased a couple Icon bit sets now. I even have to cross the usa/canada boarder to get them. (only 25 min drive form me). Definitely a good set for the money. I know the ratchet is rebranded by a few different brands but as a small kit its a awesome deal. i work on german cars with vary tight working spots and flex head is awesome.. i could not do by job with a single fixed angle head.
My 3 piece fixed head angle blue-point (snapon) bit ratchets just sit in the tool box now.
No need to swap bit ratchets when i need a different angle now.
I have that Icon kit and I love it. One thing everyone knows about harbor freight is you never buy retail, always use a coupon. But overall this kit has gotten me out of a lot of tight jams. One thing I have noted is that the Phillips #2 is not to great. I often switch to my Milwaukee #2 because it's just got a superior byte and as much as I want to keep that kit as is, I may slowly replace bits with better ones as needed.
I got mine for like 32$ a while back down in Utah
Used it on my motorcycle and my 3d printer and I’ve had no issues with it
It’s worth the price to me even at 40
The VIM ratchet and extension on amazon is $33 right now. Why would I pay $33 for that, when I can get the ICON kit with the ratchet and extension, bits, case, and harbor freight warranty for the same price? (assuming purchased with a coupon)
With ICON tools, I admit that a little research goes a long way. Some ICON tools are identical to rebranded tools used by some tool truck companies and are very high quality, and some ICON tools are cheap pieces of Chinese junk.
I am glad harbor freight has the ICON line. You can still buy super cheap Pittsburgh tools if that is what you are after, or you can buy ICON tools, many of which are very nice. As long as no intellectual property rights or designs are stolen or illegally claimed, I see no downside to increased competition in the US.
What do/did you do for a living to buy all these tools? Just curious.
I’m an appliance service tech and installer and I love this icon set I use it every day it’s held up great and I put the torque to it, one thing I use it to do is level the front legs when I install big 48” subzero fridges
I also use it in conjunction with the sockets on the Wera bit check plus
Any tips on how to pull out a G.E. front loader on a pedestal in a tight space? Counter on one side and dryer on the other. Cabinets above almost touching the top. I have pulled it before with help but trying to do it on my own. It's 4 years old. The drain pump went out last year. Bought an OEM drain pump. Ohmed out the old one and it was out of spec. Put a new pump in no change. The only thing that made sense was the control board. That was fun to take out. I think I counted 16 connections to it. Sure enough huge burn mark on it. I figure the board took the pump out. New board fixed it. Now the inlet valves are squealing so I bought a new OEM set but I need to pull it out. Also going to replace the hoses and the steam hose on the matching dryer while back there. Damn thing is heavy AF as the kids say. :)
Walmart carries a similar offering from Hart for 27 bucks. I don't know if it has the capabilities about using the extension for extra leverage or a T-handle, but the ratchet is a flex head with the same black button, so I'm assuming it locks like the Icon does.
What to really be on the lookout for at Walmart is quick change 1/4 hex bit ratchet adapters that both Hart and Hyper Tough make. I saw ones for 3/8 and 1/2 inch drive from Hyper Tough (My store didn't have any Hart versions in stock) for around 5 bucks a piece. I got two of each 3/8 & 1/2 inch. If I come across 1/4 inch drive version I'll grab that too. Was so happy to see them I considered emptying the shelf pegs. 😂
I'm going to pair them up with my swivel head 3/8 & 1/2 inch ratchets. I LOVE that type of ratchet.
I’ve watched your videos for years but I must say…recently you’re starting to sound like a tool snob and almost offended that companies are doing things better than some of your coveted brands. Be more open minded. I’ve kept that icon set in my truck console for a few years now and it has served me very well.
I think where this stands out is the case and how complete the set is for the average person that can walk into a store to pick it up. This would be a great compact kit for motorcycles that you can throw in the saddle bag.
I added a belt clip to mine that I bought on Amazon. I think it was for a holster and I found some low profile screws and nuts so it would not protrude too much into the case.
The Wiha set you showed has held up great for me for over a year I think they are around 30$ at Lows .
I own two sets and got the second one just for the ratchet to keep in my EDC tool bag. I was going to get the VIM ratchet, but the Icon was only a few dollars more and I got a whole bit set with it. For my tool bag, I wanted the slightly shorter ratchet anyway, as it fit with my kit better.
I got the VIM Tools and the prestacycle one which does not have the flex head. I guess they are all coming out of the same factory in Taiwan.
I have the Icon set, I also have a set from Wurth (German higher end). Both flex ratchets are identical. Literally looks like they were made in the same factory. The only difference is handle length. The bits are different and Wurth has sockets in the kit as well . But the ratchet definitely is the same
I’ve seen a picture of a bigger version of that set that includes some sockets with it. Waiting for it to be released
Gearwrench has a set w sockets and a 1/4 and 5/16 ratchet on the same wrench w a nice thumb wheel on the back. That’s my favorite one and a little cheaper than the icon if you don’t get it from the Mac truck
Where have you seen that picture? I'm curious!
I saw that the ICON and Vim Flex Head Ratcheting Set were probably made in the same factory. I bought the VIM Set (FRBS89) on sale since it had more bits than the Icon set.
Harbor Freight is adding better tools. I have bought some of the ICON Snap-On clone pliers and they seem every bit as good the Snap-On at one third of the price. As a home gamer, I can’t justify the extra money.
I own a set of Snap-On Long Nose Slip Joint Pliers (LN47ACF) pliers, this plier is my go to plier, and looking forward to the clone coming out so I can add a few additional sets around the house without breaking the bank.
Sometimes Harbor Freight is not the cheapest - sometimes is Amazon not the cheapest - one has to shop around.
Amazing little kit. I replaced the entire first/bottom row a Milwaukee sae hex set. Full coverage on torx, metric, and sae. This replaces Allen wrenches in the tool bag.
The $30ish vessel bit set is a favorite of mine too. Check that out Doc.
I paid $40 for an ICON 1/4" ratchet sometime back without reading reviews or looking into alternatives. Turned out that it had massive backdrag and priced more than better performing ratchets from other brands. Couldn't return it without a restocking fee once it was open too. If Harbor Freight wants to charge such prices, they also need to up the value proposition for them.
You consider that expensive? In the UK, the equivalent of $40 for that set would be a crazy good deal.
I initially bristled a bit at the $40 tag, but after using it for a bit, it’s worth every penny. An equivalent snap-on set would likely be at least $150. Facom’s is about $100 or more. $25 or $30 would feel better from HF, but $40 with a LTW is certainly reasonable for what you’re getting.
I use this wrench and set every day building engines. The value is insane vs tool trucks
Snap on low profile screw driver is a rebrand anex. It amazon.
Absolutely love this little ratchet. Paid $30 and would definitely pay $40 for it now. Been durable and have had zero issues with it.
I mean, yeah you could buy different sets with tons of bits. I don’t think that’s the original intended purpose of this.
I can’t throw those huge sets in my glove box. I cannot throw them In my ATV glove box.
I believe they’re just different tools for different applications
A great set. The version they are releasing soon with the 1/4" sockets will be even better if storage size is not your #1 concern.
icon lifetime warranty, just go to the store and they replace it. vim?
Tone Japan also sells something super similar to it and I got that for around 35 USD.
A three-piece VIM rachet set with no bits is currently $37 on Amazon. The ICON seems like a deal comparatively. The ICON rachet is a little shorter. I'm building an off-road motorcycle kit and have looked at many combinations of rachets, bits, etc. The ICON kit is reasonable, for sure, unless one is going for saving a few bucks on the cheap. I'd look at something more refined if I were using it to make a living
I didn’t pay near 40 bucks, mine was like 25 with a coupon when they first came out.
I purchased the ICON kit a while ago and love it.
$25 right now, can not be beat at that price!
I got mine for 25 at the latest parking lot sale.... totally worth it
That icon kit might be the only Icon tool I've gotten that I didn't eventually upgrade to something nicer. The only thing I wish is that they had a kit available with a set of 1/4 inch sockets.
My only complaint really is that the ratchet in the kit is pretty shoddy, but the extension/t-handle function of it kind of makes up for it.
They’re coming out with a kit this summer if I’m not mistaken, it was at the HF showcase at SEMA this year
You're mostly wrong about your assessment.
The 35 piece Wiha, the actual true equivalent, is $50.00. There is essentially no comparable kit for less than the Icon. $40.00 isn't a big ask.
That 32 piece Wiha is 29.99 from one third party seller on Amazon and I suspect it's a fire sale.
I have that Icon set. I wanted a locking flex head driver, and the VIM is basically the same price without any bits, plus it's so easy to get another one if I break it. I'd like it better if it was $10, but I buy things one at a time. I even have a couple of Snap-On tools, because they had something I wanted and couldn't find anyplace else. My guess is HF saw a chance to package something they could sell, and wouldn't be surprised if they do that same thing with every single tool they offer. I don't see any sign there is a plan to try to replace Snap-On or anybody else, although I do wish they'd come out with a copy of those slip-joint needle-nose pliers. Otherwise I'll have to order them from Snap-On.
Come on Doc, you can’t accuse Harbor Freight of being a “rebrander” without also pointing the finger at the biggest offender: SNAP-ON! Sure they make some on their own. Other stuff is just Bahco/Knipex/etc through the years with a swapped logo and different colors. Butane soldering iron they charge through the nose for? Just a rebranded Weller in Hi Viz if you want. Fine if you want the truck service; fine if you want to spend the money. But don’t pretend like SNA or Matco or MAC don’t do the same thing (and charge MORE for it).
This HF set is the cats meow. Not everything ICON is but some stands up. Their double flex head box end ratcheting wrenches are exactly the same as the Mountain wrenches (or any of the other brands reselling the stuff out of the same factory). And cheaper with a coupon. Their Knipex knock-offs? Not as good and not worth the savings IMO. Hammers? Either get the cheapo or get the snapon. Every brand has some stuff they knock out of the park and some stuff that’s trash for the price.
Reason I buy Icon is because life time warranty. I can just take it back to the store and get a new one. I dont own a shop, Im a dump truck owner operator and dont have a tool truck that comes to me. So its just the ease of exchange for me. Pay $40 for that icon bit set, have it for life.
Is it’s any good for plumbing work
no.
It’s a facom clone kit and facom charges 2x the price. This is not a new idea. It’s so popular because the facom kit never caught on and people don’t know about it and it’s a phenomenal design for light use.
I LOVE THE ICON SET, WORKS FLAWLESSLY.
Love that Icon set Most use cases than anything that was compared to it. And a Lifetime warranty ALSO Snap On Rebrands alllllll the time. Sounds like They are taking a page out of Snap Ons Book and using it against them
Don't be one of those guys...The guys who hate Harbor Freight just to hate them. It a great little set, I've had it for a few years and its worth every penny. I actually have 2. I have some Snap-on and some HF and everything between. I like to say I have a lot of tools, but then I watch someone like Doc on UA-cam that seem to have everything ever made. Anyway, my point is I have many tools and have had tools since I first started to buy them in 1978. Harbor Freight was a place I never bought from, but recently, the last 2 to 3 maybe 4 years they have changed my mind. They are not as good as Snap-on or others, don't believe what all the miserly folks say...but they are decent. Or at least some of the stuff they sell is decent and can be a great value. I still buy Snap-on off a truck every so often, about $300 to $400 last month or so. I know tools and understand quality. HF is worth a look, and this little kit is a perfect example of that. Buy smart and chose carefully. I was once a mechanic, many years ago. Then Air Force working on F-16s, a house builder with 40+ guys working for me for almost a decade and now 34 years running a big crew of building Maintenance guys. doing all sorts of trades, including keeping the company vehicles running. The right tool is important, at a price that takes into consideration usage, (light or heavy) loss, (by theft or neglect) and many other factors. If you can afford to buy only from the big boys, no matter what, then good for you, I'm jealous. To the rest of you, chose wisely my friends and don't let the nay saying (fill in the blank here) stop you from saving a buck when you can.
I have the Icon set and use it all the time I do service work on assembly machines in a lot different plants. The VIM ratchet and extension cost about what the Icon set cost. And everyone has always copied tools. If something goes wrong with my Icon set I can easily get it warranted all the rest I have to play game's with robots on the phone. I had a gearwrench set that had the worst case it was hard plastic didn't hold the bits tight. I went through 2 sets. The Icon is very robust and they are coming out with a new set that will include sockets. I'll be in line for that set.
And why would buy something 4 times the cost when I can get the same LIFETIME WARRANTY
I am an industrial maintenance technician. I have had a lot Doyle Icon and Pittsburgh stuff also stuff from northern tool. I have to say it has been great value. I put a cheater pipe on my ratchet and broke it. Walked in to harbor freight with it and they didn’t blink an eye at replacing it. Let your Snap-on guy know you put a pipe on it and broke it. They might just tell you to kick rocks. Mess up a screwdriver and get a whole new one at harbor freight. Snap-on will only replace the Handel or the tip. Which ever is bad.
My 56” US-General tool box has been rolled who knows how many miles in a 750,000 sq foot building over 12 years and is still going strong. Truthfully the only junk tools I have bought have been Milwaukee impact and drill. They were garbage lots of other people have had the same experience with them. Went and replaced them with Hercules stuff and haven’t had any complaints at all. Why would anybody step foot on a rape wagon the value isn’t there. And don’t say well professional auto technicians use their stuff more. The stuff I work on has sent auto techs running for the hills and make cars look like toys.
I’ve loved mine. If it’s not the same as the Facom it’s ridiculously close.
Actually priced 50percent below the Facom equivalent. R.180 model in a set. Looks absoluteely same to me. Great content btw.
$40 isn’t “playing with the big boys”
Not when many of the " big boys " offer their own variants of this set from the same manufacturer for $75-$90 when you can even find one available in the US since they don't market their tools here.
Hell MAC has a variant of this HI-FIVE manufactured bit ratchet and it's $75 for just the ratchet, I never saw a set but if they offer one I wouldn't be surprised if it was $150.
That set is worth every cent
I use it many configurations
Quality bits
HF now carries decent tools at a decent price
They still have plenty of garbage too
Knipex and Snapon are better tools but icon Quinn and Doyle are decent and while icon isn’t cheap it’s not as pricey as knipex or Snapon
Funny thing is, I bought that set about a year ago and I thought I did it based on a review from THIS channel. Lol. Guess I'm getting my youtube reviewers messed up. Anyway, the set is very nice. I'm happy with it. And, fwiw, I'm not sure it was $40 when I bought it. Might have been on sale or something.
I noticed Prestacycle has a similar setup without the flex head
It's made in the same factory.
PRESTACYCLE, TOPEAK, GM POWERTORQUE, VIM, TOPTUL,FACOM, USAG, MAC, WERA, 711L , ICON, and the list goes on they're all made by the same manufacturer .
If it says " REVERSE GEAR " or " 1/4 GEAR " on the thumb wheel it was made by HI-FIVE in Taiwan, formally named REVERSE GEAR.
There are so many bicycle tool companies offering various HI-FIVE bit ratchets, or at least using the HI-FIVE manufactured mechanism.
@@TylerSnyder305
already figured that out
one factory -- many brands...
but the quality can be different
but this one does not have the flex head
which was the point of this comment
A great set for sure. I too was surprised by the price. I don't think of HB Icon in that way. I see some of that marketing in the new Icon knife at the same price point. I don't think for price point of either will drive away buyers. Seems like a good market test.
Should they just make it free?
I'm not sure what the point or message was here. This set is clearly along the lines of HF's moto. More for less. It's a higher end tool at a higher end price than their low-tier stuff, but much cheaper than similar products from others.
The VIM equivalent is $50 and doesn't include a bit set or case.
The king of the hill, Wera Tool-Check, is closer to $100. The Wiha doesn't include as many bits nor is it a flex head nor extendable handle.
So... This is Harbor Freight doing what they've always done. MORE tool for LESS price.
This little set has been on my "wanted" list for about a year now. It'll be a great compliment to my Tool-Check inside my "Go bag" Tech-MCT
I’m terrible. I have every set you showed but the sunex and multiple copies of all of them. You are missing the best one though. The gear wrench/ Mac set is the best. I actually have the icon ratchet in that case w the sockets and different bets and adapters. I rarely use it but it does help working on covana covers. All the sets including the icon are missing the square bits that are more and more common. My original set was the gearwrench/ Mac set branded as husky. I looked for it for years and only found it as Mac for a lot more. Finally it came out as gearwrench and you can get it for $35. It’s great for just having a little 1/4 and 5/16 ratchet on the same wrench too
The Icon is so cool.. despite the retailer. Have 3 sets stashed about. Also have the VIM... love the tool shows and discussions.
Buy the VIM VHC77. Nothing else like it for tight spaces. The new case is much nicer too than the one I have. Waiting for them to stock the new case so I can swap mine out.
I used a coupon and got this set. It more than paid for itself after i got pulled over by a state trooper who let me go with a "fix your taillight" when he spotted another car he liked better. It was able to get into the awkward space where a larger tool would have been difficult at best.
Atleast with HF branded "lifetime warranty" tools it's one of the few companies that does easy in store no hassle exchanges/replacements, and typically local locations. (Atleast in my experience the free and purchased extended warranties have been excellent, at two different locations) So fast and easy it's reminiscent of swapping craftsman tools at Sears! The only real downside is replacement of LOST or REPLACEMENT parts that cannot be warrantied which requires calling a number and ordering, but it's still from HF service/parts/customer service center in California I think? So it's not terrible... I currently have a missing 14mm socket I need to order 😒 but have had good luck with parts for non warranties in the past, as long as the product is still in production since they re-design, re-name, or stop selling many tools/products every few years... I've been happy with HF, out of the 5-6 or so stores I've dealt with only one has consistently been TERRIBLE with management/stocking/inventory management/customer service and it's my closest store 🙄 Luckily the next store away is probably the best managed HF I've ever witnessed!
I like the Facom kit with that ratchet. Facom has a couple different mini ratchet kits. The kit with the mini flex head ratchet, bits, and a few sockets is my favorite. Very handy and compact. I have the VIM branded flex ratchet. It has held up surprisingly good but my all time favorite and the best "in my opinion" mini ratchet kit is the Super Deluxe set from Wadsworth Falls. Not cheap, but is worth it easily. EXTREMLY durable and tough. Very well made of excellent steel.
Doc, check out the Wadsworth Falls Super Deluxe mini ratchet set. You will thank me!
$40 is really steep for Harbor Freight, but I really like their warranty process. I prefer icon snips over 'name brand' because its so much easier to swap out a dull pair, in store.
Mac makes the best ratcheting screwdriver set, also has a t handle driver and a bit driver adapter and everything’s magnetic for about $175. Expensive but nowhere near snap on price however the quality is excellent and def a daily use tool
Mac Tools SBDR123SA Screwdriver Bit set. I'd buy it again in a heartbeat. It's that good!
ua-cam.com/video/jBH8L4SNjt0/v-deo.html