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Would u get the craftsman or the Hercules . The Hercules is currently 89.99 and i have a 25% off coupon which would cost under $70? How is the reliability and longevity on it? Im a diy mechanic and i probably will use it mostly on 80ft lbs lug nuts and other bigger bolts.
The hercules is a much better buy now that harbor freight offers a 5 year warranty on all hercules brushless power tools. It's a good compact impact wrench for a diyer like myself for working on the car at home. Now if only they'd come out with a 20v ratchet or right angle impact, then I'd have everything I need.
@@Mexicanmike87Milwaukee has the ONLY big name rachet worth a shit. I have the Milwaukee rachet and all Hercules other what nots. The tube battery being like 7 times smaller than the 20v battery is night and day.
Just for context; as of May 2023 the Craftsman Brushless Impact Wrench has gone from $119 up to $149 and the Hercules Brushless impact has gone from $99 down to $65. Just saying…
As a professional mechanic I truly appreciate how hard you guys work on these videos that was an amazing review I have been waiting for the Hercules forever.. and excellent representation of the Craftsman it truly is the better value but I do like the return policy at Harbor Freight a lot better.. pretty good bang for your buck for 99 bucks.. the thing I like about the M18 is the availability of aftermarket batteries!! I would love to see how the aftermarket batteries compared to the factory batteries per dollar how you would score them on the M18? Seriously though thank you so much for reviewing the Hercules!!
The Craftsman and Hercules/Bauer have identical return policy... you get 90 days in the store at Lowe's. The warranty difference is that you have to buy an extended warranty for Harbor Freight tools, whereas the Craftsman includes a free 3 year warranty. What makes the Harbor Freight return policy better? Lowe's has always been quicker and easier on returns for me.
As we made company decisions, managers wanted Hart cause they're cheap and warranty. But as most of us said, your going to be dead in the water loosing big money while someone has to return the POS? They bought 4 Milwaukee's m12 3/8" impact wrench, which were half price in November 2020, also 2 sets of m4 4amp batteries half price. They ran them non stop for 5 days 8hrs 1/2" bolts on and off, over a months time-no failures, and still running like new. Time saving paid for them easy and we still have them.
I have got a challenge for you guys..... i decided to try the hercules impact as a general break away wrench for wheels. When i got it home of course i put it on a rear stud on the AMG and it would not move it, as in not at all. Checked the status on my 5 amp hr and found that it was on 2 bars so i figured that must be it and on the charger it went. Next morning i tried it again and STILL it would not move the lug bolt. At this point i was PISSED as my old as hell Chicago Electric 18V would pop them loose without issue. Then it hit me, let the tool do the work it is trying to do. I realized that i was holding the gun with a death grip so that it remained perfectly still. As soon as i tried it again, but with a grip literally so loose that it was basically just bouncing between my fingers, it zipped them all off. I ran them back down and gripped it tightly again and it would not move them....Loosened my grip back up to the point of simply holding the tool in place and BOOM, off they came. you guys mentioned around 6:40 about the tool vibrating more than anything else you tested, i am wondering if that is not intended......could you possibly try the test again but using a super limp grip this time???? My tool did NOT like to be held tightly(insert jokes here) and thought that maybe you would be able to test out that theory. Thanks for all of the great content you guys and keep up the good work!!!! J.P. Taylor
Mine removes my F250 Super Duty lug nuts at 2 bars on the 5ah battery. They are always hand torqued to 170 ft/lb. I grip this no different than I grip a 1/4" drive impact driver that I use nearly all day long. Did you have the power level set to 3?
@truracer20 studs are a little different than lug nuts, BUT, I will say that with the 12ah battery it does not give one single damn!!!! It zips off everything I've ever tried it on
I wanted that theory to work so badly as I just purchased the new v2 version (which this channel say is actually weaker) and I still can NOT loosen hand tweaked (right before) nuts at 129ft/lbs (tesla lug nuts). left hand very loose where it almost wants to rotate on it's own. no go... fully charged new 5A battery (tried the 2A that came with other tool too) seting 3 or Auto. either I have a lemon or tool is really that weak...
@@JAKEaudio2 I hear you, but see some people can't get normal (90-130ft/lb) nuts off withing 10+ seconds so I'm not alone. I even went to another store to swap and get a different one in case first was lemon. same issue. I asked if I could borrow a 8-12A battery but they had none to test on. returned. back to hand loosening lug nut and will use the 1/4 compact herculess (which might actually be stronger in my case, this channel rates at 180ft/lb) which I also got but like so far. the extream torque tools a just beast...
@@dodge8802 Depends on whether Lowe’s wants a House brand or not. Flex’s marketing is targeted at professional users. That’s not Kobalt’s market. Kobalt sits as a competitor to Ridgid and Ryobi for Lowe’s. The XTR line was a direct shot at Ridgid. I think the fact that they have developed this relationship with Chervon says that they are going to focus on the release of Flex and solidify them as the Professional brand and then release more Kobalt and Skil down the line. It’s just starting to take quite a while and they don’t have a product release timeline. They’re too slow to the market right now with new releases considering everyone else is really attacking the market right now. They’re not helping consumers buy their products with their tactics, that’s for sure. Ridgid gives product release roadmaps and Ryobi has a ridiculous number of products to compete with. I feel confident they will continue to move forward vs Kobalt where I wonder whether they will remain “neglected” or even exist in a few years haha. Kobalt really makes sense as the prosumer brand for Lowe’s if we’re comparing the relationship to that of HD and TTI. Then you have Skil by Chervon which is a good DIY market product. This is all me with my fingers crossed, holding my breath, dancing in the rain with no shirt on for the universe to deliver new products as an XTR owner though 😂 If Lowe’s wants to see the perspective of a customer like myself? I’m not a pro so I feel the need to hold off buying more Kobalt unless they start to release more. I may buy more if I have a project which requires it or if there are some serious sales haha. I didn’t go with Ridgid because I liked the idea of having 24v outdoor garden tool options. I don’t think HD will ever bring Ridgid outdoor/garden products to the market because Milwaukee will face some cannibalization from Rigid. Also, where are the other AH ultimate output batteries Kobalt?? And your 24v shop vac has terrible clasps. They’re broken at your stores on display!
@@billymurphy3 Has anyone actually been buying the Flex stuff? I'd be curious if anyone here is a Lowe's employee and knows how they're selling. I don't hear much about them and they always have product on the shelf.
@@cup_and_cone that’s what I’ve been wondering myself. People were talking about Flex and their marketing seems successful in that regard, but we don’t know whether that’s converted to actual sales haha I assume real Pros aren’t just going to take Flex for a spin and then make a switch when they are invested in other systems that all compete directly, are reputable, and mainly have nuanced differences. I thinks it’s primarily Lowe’s attempt to get into a tight relationship with a manufacturer and just, hoping it’s successful. They haven’t really been able to compete in house with Home Depot’s offerings that come from TTI. You get Flex, Kobalt, Skil, and EGO in one place. I think to both companies, this Flex release is more important than the sales they generate for Flex in the near future. Would be interesting to see the data haha I know nothing about anything obviously though 🤣
Oh. My God. I thought I was the only one who thought of that Nutty Professor scene when I read the name Hercules. You've earned all my respect at this point.
Yess! I almost fell out of my chair when the Nutty Professor clip came on Lmao! Everytime I'm in the store and I see the Hercules tools I always go.. Hercules! Hercules! Hercules!! Thank you!
I want Kobalt to make an XTR version of the impact used here. This one seems to basically just be their standard impact driver with a half inch anvil, so if they did the same thing with the almost excessively powerful XTR impact driver it would be pretty insane. I bet it would be almost comparable to the Frankenstein Milwaukee that Man Caver Tools sent you guys to test. Also, I know they're longer than compacts from big brands, but I really think that both the Kobalt and Hercules impact are better fits for the compact space since they are both pretty much the same size as their impact drivers. Compactness is something budget friendly tools tend to sacrifice for their price. One more thing, even though the Hercules definitely outperformed Kobalt here I still think both justify their price well enough since Kobalt has very similar battery prices, a much better lineup, and a far superior warranty that is essentially the same as Milwaukee's.
Upgraded from an older 18v kit. ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxW1vOBRCMrgTCDEijzpVzDWsgI-Jm2iQv I independently chose the drill and impact tool, before I came across the kit.I like the 3 speed impact gun. It seems more powerful than my older one, and it can be set to be really gentle. The drill is more appropriately sized for my use. I used to have a hammer drill, but I did not like that it was so big and it was not a great hammer drill. I rather have a smaller drill like this, and then get a corded hammer drill for the odd case I need that.
It would be interesting, but it's gonna be the same quality level as harbor freight. Sometimes I shop at Menards, but I don't even think about buying their house brands. I mean, "Masterforce" brand only exists because "Tool Shop" tools earned a reputation for not even surviving a single use!
@@Mrmareen19 I don't blame the factory for the quality of the product, but the company who creates the design! (I don't buy Kobalt either....but Menards will always be the special place I avoid buying tools from.)
Something to consider about the Kobalt: it’s about a 4 year old design and it wasn’t designed to use XTR batteries. Though Kobalt’s batteries are also a hard to beat bargain: 2x 4ah for $99.99, 1x 6ah for 99.99, and 1x 4ah XTR for 69.99 (nice). Also as someone else mentioned, the harbor freight has a horrible warranty now. Kobalt has the same warranty as Milwaukee. 3 years battery and 5 years tool.
I am glad I found this video. I had sent you an email about loaning you my 3/8 and 1/2 Kobalt. I searched several times and this one never showed up. I just redid the front and rear suspension on my daily using the Kobalts and nothing they couldn't handle except the axle nut (torqued to 70nm + 180). Great little tools. I got them as the free tools when I bought the 2ah, 4ah, and charger kit.
After a year and 2 months I think the Hercules 57563 needs it's comparisons re-evaluated. The Craftsman CMCF920B is now currently priced at $149.00, a $30 increase, on Lowes website and I still have not found a 4 AH Craftsman battery and charger for less than $99. Thats $248 total. Conversely the Hercules 57563 is now $10 less at $89.99, is now warrantied for 5 years and can be had with a 5 AH battery and charger, also now warrantied for 3 years, for $164.97. Re-match?
Great job getting this one out quickly! I was interested in this one since my brother has the Hercules line. I’m excited to see HF expanding the lineup, but a little underwhelmed by the power on this one.
Well if they show Milwaukee how it's done, it'll cost 100 more than the red gun, and then HF will be spitting in the face of the poors who support them and keep them afloat
@@ThomasWilliams-zo7ke HF needs the premium tools to compete with the name brands. They’ve been doing a great job over the past couple years, and I hope to keep seeing them improve. They still cater to their budget minded customers, that’s how they pulled a lot of us in. Starting out, that’s what I could afford. And some of it was good, but some of it (namely power tools) was crap. I’ve been beyond happy with my Milwaukee stuff.
Not sure why ur not impressed by the Hercules, it doing really well for its price, almost hitting the 300ft lbs and buying it with battery and tool will run u about $150.
@@rockman49er LOL i got a 3/8 milwaukee stubby, i just had to have the best and most compact. Ive had and really liked the Dewalt DCF 903 how it feels on the hand, but its not as compact as the stubby with the 2.0/2.5 amp battery. Ive spent $225 on the 3/8 stubby, comes with 2.0 and 4.0 amp battery and charger on ebay (Milwaukee 2554-22) which was a steal.
@@rockman49er HCB84B2 hercules + 5A battery + charger is now $99. but v2 I just bought can't loosen a lug nut at 129ft/lb for me, so not a good deal afterall...
@alaind831 o got the 3/8 20v impact I think I paid 59 or 69 tool only and it took the lugnuts off a huge heavy hauling 2 piston lift trailer no problem
@@rockman49er I think maybe some quality control issue cause 2 units I brought (late 2023 build, and week 11 2024 build) were not able to loosen my car lug nuts. others having same issue, but some swear by it...
I got the kobalt one for "free" with a battery kit during a sale. I actually like it for suspension work but isn't all that powerful. Glad to see they are staying modest with the rating on the box. However value is good. Being I got the tool, 4ah and 2ah and a charger for $129
A got my milwaukee for 220$ as a kit from northern tool. They have a 100$ off if you purchase a 15$ accessories with it. So 235$ and I got 2 batteries charger and the tool with a bit set. You just have to really look around for the deals. i would never buy from home depot thats for sure
@@GamingwithIinfected I have already been in the kobalt system for a while with a ton of batteries even at the point of buying this one. I have looked at milwaukee at home depot, they have it priced way too high. Rual king is better priced. I won't be buying milwaukee at this point, not because they are bad. I like them but not getting another battery system. Already have 5 systems between the power tools and lawn equipment.(Kobalt 24v,40v, skil 12v, bauer 20v,porter cable 20v(this will be leaving soon).
I’m in the same boat. Can now get Milwaukee for 10% over cost. I’m too far deep in the Kobalt ecosystem (all XTR plus a ton of close out lights, right angle impact, 3/8 “mid torque,” etc. to flip over). I think an XTR version of what they tested here would be about ideal for my under car use. The XTR driver claims a roughly 33% increase in power over the standard (2400 in-lb vs 1800). In theory, the XTR driver should come in at just under 300. Obviously this is just speculation and I doubt they’d upgrade such a low volume tool. They look similar enough to potentially swap the 3/8 anvil into an XTR driver, but I haven’t had the time to tear both apart.
@@drunkonunleaded I agree that the xtr version would likely be better. I keep waiting for it and hoping. They do look similar and I have them both as well. Would be interesting to see if they are interchangeable.
The Dewalt DCF921B is similar in weight at 2.4lbs and makes on your testing 320ft. lbs. The Hercules weights 2.7lbs and your testing it makes 300ft. lbs. so pretty close and is just a bit heavier at 0.3lbs more than the compact Dewalt. I think this is more of a compact wrench in terms of weight. In terms of mid torque The Ryobi 262 weighs in at 3.75lbs now that is a BIG difference in weight another +1 pounds and that makes 440ft. lbs. That said, you can find the Dewalt DCF921B now on discount around $140 on amazon and lightly used ones on Facebook/Offerup for like $100 and you get a proper warranty with 3 years so I went for that instead of the Hercules.
I just got the Craftsman today at Lowe's for $83! That's a steal. Hands down the greatest bang for the buck. It will go nicely with my V20 Brushless drill.✌🏻🇺🇸
This Hercules impact went on clearance and harbor freight had their 30% off sale on all clearance items. I just bought this exact impact for $35 today and 5 years of warranty! What an absolute score!!!
Another outstanding test as always. Thank you for putting it through its paces for us to see the real numbers beyond the packaging and hype. Keep up the great work !
I'm new to tools but I was advised that it would make my life a lot easier because I was going to start working on suspension components on my vehicle. parts like the coils, struts, control arms, upper and lower, things like that. I'm trying to learn how much tool I really need for these. They're on just cars and mid sized suv's. Not anything on a large truck. not yet anyway. Looking up things on 3/8's or 1/2's. Mid torque, high torque. Not entirely sure. Hopefully I can learn what I need to best fit my needs. hopefully without breaking the bank. I'm hoping these Hercules ones would fit my needs. They'll probably all fit my needs but I'm eager to learn.
I own the impact driver, hammer drill/driver, brushless 7 1/4 saw, and a light. Bought the drill with a charger, 2.5ah, and case for I believe $120 4 years ago and have added another 2.5ah battery and a 5ah battery. My only real complaint is the impact driver. It does a good job for most things just seems to be lacking in power to the Bauer and now Bauer has a new brushless offering that I’d really like to see. The drill is epic for what I gave for it though. I’ve really put it through it’s paces HARD. Even put a 2” bimetal hole saw and cut holes through 1/4” metal. Was really really hoping this would be a little better offering as well but might end up in a vehicle for changing tires on the road and might jump to a dewalt line of tools
I bought a Mokeneye brushless 1/2" impact from Amazon for $69.00. Tool, battery and charger all included. 300ft.lbs. It works good for home shop auto restoration projects. Tired of paying extra for Chinese made "American Brands".
After about 9 months of owning the Hercules and 6 months of owning the m12 fuel, I find myself going for the Herc first because if it’s narrow head, but surprisingly, the m12 seems to break free more things than the Hercules… very strange
Really seems like the Kobalt mid torque is just an impact driver with a 1/2" head, advertising similar torque levels as the driver, about the same size too
@@leemarchant7191 From the reviews out there its not even close to the old M18 mid torque. Would still be nice to finally see some real numbers though, to settle it.
I question the reliability. Numbers don't mean anything if it gives out too easily. I had the Bauer. Crapped out on me only two days of use. Went through 3 Earthquake impacts within ninety days. Kobalt Brushless non XTR I still have it and it still runs smoothly. And this is all in the 1/2 impact wrench platform. I'm just entry level in my field.
Thank you so much for doing this channel, I haven’t bought a torque wrench yet because I’m in collage and cant afford one, but i am definitely referencing this channel when i do and i am pointing anyone looking for a torque wrench, air hammer, or flashlight to this channel also!
General rule of thumb when tightening or loosening a fastener if after 10 seconds there is no movement give up and go home regroup and then go buy the next tier up Milwaukee and try again
Love the work you guys do. Always great and professional content! I was wondering if y’all could review Durofix’s 1/2 inch impact. Another channel I watched did a review and it really surprised them
I really cannot tell what HF is doing with the bauer/hercules lines. I thought bauer was supposed to be a homegamer/Ryobi competitor, and hercules was more of a professional level tool. But their pricing is all over the place.
Understood Hercules when it was brushed tools. If you're going to introduce a new Brushless line within it - and it's $99? They gotta have some people smarter than us working on these, it likely is good for sales on people walking around a store needing something. But who are they targeting in the market? What brand are they comparing to, their website shows comparisons with 8 year old Milwaukee fuel tools that aren't for sale anymore. Are they going after people with access to time machines?
@@TorqueTestChannel lol, now that would be good tools to compare old outdated tools vs new one's..... but yeah the bauer/ hercules lines seems good (beware of looks) at the store, but then I always remember there are better tools out there...HF still need that time machine to catch up to the big boys like Milwaukee, Makita, Dewalt...
@@TorqueTestChannel It almost seems like, despite having the same parent company, Bauer and Hercules are competing against eachother. As for comparing to such old tools, maybe they are trying to catch the eye of people who have a tool that is maybe getting a bit long in the tooth, and they want to upgrade?
could you test this Hercules with a 12ah to see how much torque it makes? I have the 4ah extreme battery for my 1/2 mid torque herc but I also have a 12ah extreme battery that I steal from my ultra torque when I need extra juice and it does spin a bit faster so I’m wondering how much extra torque it gives as well
Almost purchased one of these Hercules. Glad I didn’t. Their false advertising torque values were disturbing. If they would have been more honest at least they would have a good go at that compact to mid torque family of impact wrenches. Thanks again for a great job.
I have the freak and it doesn't have enough ass to be a mid torque. Like TTC said it's just an impact driver and that's about it. I don't see why they put a 1/2 drive anvil on it.
@@silvermanrol correct, I have the Freak 2 and it's more comparable to a compact wrench. I'd rather see the GDS18V-221 compact wrench. It's rated for about 70 ft-lbs more than the Freak 2 and almost no one has videos of that one
This channel needs to be at 350,000 subscribers by August 7th 2022. If we can get it there and my prediction comes true and my constant bragging this Channel Everywhere I Go maybe I can beg them for one of those nice impact drives. I literally talk about this Channel with everybody I know that uses tools or any UA-cam I go and visit with tools for mechanics. In an age of information and disinformation channels like this are fantastic
As a professional plumber . I run Milwaukee for all of my normalities , and because they offer specific tools for us no one else does , and for everything else like my fan my radio my angle and my key saw are all Hercules , just got them so we’ll see how they do as I work on a lot of different kind of job sites . Kinda doing it as a dare lol
Honda Lube Tech here : When it comes to things such as lug nuts which can be torqued anywhere from 85-130ft lbs+ .The harbor freight 1/2 in impact has not been able to remove all the lug nuts needed throughout my workday. DISCLAIMER : I am only able to use the 2.5 AH battery at the moment due to the 5AH battery shortage all Harbor freights seem to be experiencing , so my current observation may change once the gun has a bit more juice available to it. Just keep this post in mind if you are considering said impact. If you cannot get the 5Ah batteries id simply go with the new EARTHQUAKE air impacts, its been reliable and has plenty of usable torque to bust out lug nuts everyday 8+ hours. Hope this helps. ( Will update once i get my hands on a 5AH battery)
I know that it had been put through many tests, but I'd love to see the Drillpro - knockoff Makita - impact wrench being properly dyno'd and tested against the original, or even by itself - it's really cheap, but does it make enough beans to warrant a try?
I just bought the Hercules 3/8 impact with the 3.5 mah. battery, (no 5.0 mah batteries in stock) It is pretty weak! Hopefully the 5.0 battery will help when I can get one. I should have spent a little more and bought the Craftsman.
I would definitely make a case for the Kobalt being a compact. Relatively long but the head-size is much slimmer than for example an M12 Fuel while making almost identical power. I own both, use them in the workshop and honestly the Kobalt gets into tight spaces better, being an inch longer makes a lot less difference than the head-size on the M12. Lot of times where I'd need an extension on the M12 but the Kobalt just slots in.
Whats interesting about the earthquake lineup is that they are rebranded durofix impacts, which ALSO OFFER BRUSHLESS OPTIONS. Harbor freight is missing the mark by not trading the brushed setup for the brushless motors
We have already seen some brushless offerings in the Bauer, including a new 1/4" brushless impact! Interested to see if the (awesome) 3/8 Bauer impact gets an upgrade and if they hopefully completely revamp the (garbage) 1/2 Bauer impact.
Just picked one of these (first gen) on clearance for $50, with the free 5.0 battery. Despite being long, it's slim size kinda put it up against the compact M18 in my eyes. I have a slimmer air impact should I really need the small size. So far, seems like a deal! If you can snag one of the clearance rack, it's hard to argue with the price to performance ratio at the moment
Saw a video of Herc brushless 1/4 in driver and it had 500 ft lbs breakaway torque . With 4.0 high performance Ah battery . Just what speed did you run it ? You left out that part . I don't own any Hercs but seems they got good battery option with the 2.5 , 4.0 and the 5.0 Ah ones
Until you’ve tried the WAKYME 1/2” Impact, you’ve not seen exaggerated numbers. I did a review on one, rated at 250 ft lbs, it barely made 125. Just creeping into medium 3/8 territory at best. Seems like 95% of manufacturers advertise best possible laboratory numbers, using their best unit in a space vacuum. The cheaper they are the worse the exaggeration is.
One thing I've noticed with my own kobalt tools is that some of the tools work better with the standard battery and 2ah battery. Not sure why but might be one to test.
I don't understand why the Hercules is cheaper than the Bauer when the former is supposed to be the flagship cordless tool brand from HF and it shows with the brushless motor and selectable speeds, while Bauer takes the mid grade/prosumer spot.
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As usual, forward any purchase confirmation from our T-shirt shop or Amazon store to TorqueRank@gmail.com! T-shirts: bit.ly/3z98ryF Amazon: www.amazon.com/shop/torquetestchannel
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Would u get the craftsman or the Hercules . The Hercules is currently 89.99 and i have a 25% off coupon which would cost under $70? How is the reliability and longevity on it? Im a diy mechanic and i probably will use it mostly on 80ft lbs lug nuts and other bigger bolts.
The hercules is a much better buy now that harbor freight offers a 5 year warranty on all hercules brushless power tools. It's a good compact impact wrench for a diyer like myself for working on the car at home. Now if only they'd come out with a 20v ratchet or right angle impact, then I'd have everything I need.
It’s weird how the Bauer came out with a 20v ratchet and it’s getting a lot of hate haha
@@Mexicanmike87Milwaukee has the ONLY big name rachet worth a shit. I have the Milwaukee rachet and all Hercules other what nots. The tube battery being like 7 times smaller than the 20v battery is night and day.
I went with hercules a year later just because of their 3/8 extended cordless ratchet. The thing is fuckin sick.
@@NicolasIchiharaI’m getting one soon. Just bought 4 more Hercules tools today
This man said packs a lot of bang in 6 inches. I spit my drink out. Lol
The simplest ideas really are the best - like not lying to the customer! :) Great channel!
Because harbor freight is the only company that lies about there torque figures....... Oh wait 90% or more buff there torque to get sales
Just did a tire rotation on my truck with 2.5ah it did really good. Had full battery left.
Just for context; as of May 2023 the Craftsman Brushless Impact Wrench has gone from $119 up to $149 and the Hercules Brushless impact has gone from $99 down to $65. Just saying…
As a professional mechanic I truly appreciate how hard you guys work on these videos that was an amazing review I have been waiting for the Hercules forever.. and excellent representation of the Craftsman it truly is the better value but I do like the return policy at Harbor Freight a lot better.. pretty good bang for your buck for 99 bucks.. the thing I like about the M18 is the availability of aftermarket batteries!! I would love to see how the aftermarket batteries compared to the factory batteries per dollar how you would score them on the M18? Seriously though thank you so much for reviewing the Hercules!!
The Craftsman and Hercules/Bauer have identical return policy... you get 90 days in the store at Lowe's. The warranty difference is that you have to buy an extended warranty for Harbor Freight tools, whereas the Craftsman includes a free 3 year warranty. What makes the Harbor Freight return policy better? Lowe's has always been quicker and easier on returns for me.
As we made company decisions, managers wanted Hart cause they're cheap and warranty. But as most of us said, your going to be dead in the water loosing big money while someone has to return the POS? They bought 4 Milwaukee's m12 3/8" impact wrench, which were half price in November 2020, also 2 sets of m4 4amp batteries half price. They ran them non stop for 5 days 8hrs 1/2" bolts on and off, over a months time-no failures, and still running like new. Time saving paid for them easy and we still have them.
I have got a challenge for you guys.....
i decided to try the hercules impact as a general break away wrench for wheels. When i got it home of course i put it on a rear stud on the AMG and it would not move it, as in not at all. Checked the status on my 5 amp hr and found that it was on 2 bars so i figured that must be it and on the charger it went. Next morning i tried it again and STILL it would not move the lug bolt. At this point i was PISSED as my old as hell Chicago Electric 18V would pop them loose without issue.
Then it hit me, let the tool do the work it is trying to do. I realized that i was holding the gun with a death grip so that it remained perfectly still. As soon as i tried it again, but with a grip literally so loose that it was basically just bouncing between my fingers, it zipped them all off. I ran them back down and gripped it tightly again and it would not move them....Loosened my grip back up to the point of simply holding the tool in place and BOOM, off they came.
you guys mentioned around 6:40 about the tool vibrating more than anything else you tested, i am wondering if that is not intended......could you possibly try the test again but using a super limp grip this time???? My tool did NOT like to be held tightly(insert jokes here) and thought that maybe you would be able to test out that theory. Thanks for all of the great content you guys and keep up the good work!!!!
J.P. Taylor
Mine removes my F250 Super Duty lug nuts at 2 bars on the 5ah battery. They are always hand torqued to 170 ft/lb. I grip this no different than I grip a 1/4" drive impact driver that I use nearly all day long. Did you have the power level set to 3?
@truracer20 studs are a little different than lug nuts, BUT, I will say that with the 12ah battery it does not give one single damn!!!! It zips off everything I've ever tried it on
I wanted that theory to work so badly as I just purchased the new v2 version (which this channel say is actually weaker) and I still can NOT loosen hand tweaked (right before) nuts at 129ft/lbs (tesla lug nuts). left hand very loose where it almost wants to rotate on it's own. no go... fully charged new 5A battery (tried the 2A that came with other tool too) seting 3 or Auto. either I have a lemon or tool is really that weak...
@alaind831 I have since "upgraded" to the weaker v2, but with the 12ah battery I have got it still zips off lugs with no issues at all
@@JAKEaudio2 I hear you, but see some people can't get normal (90-130ft/lb) nuts off withing 10+ seconds so I'm not alone. I even went to another store to swap and get a different one in case first was lemon. same issue. I asked if I could borrow a 8-12A battery but they had none to test on. returned. back to hand loosening lug nut and will use the 1/4 compact herculess (which might actually be stronger in my case, this channel rates at 180ft/lb) which I also got but like so far. the extream torque tools a just beast...
Kobalt should update or release more XTR models. Their standard brushless line is just…. Aging.
Hook me up Lowe’s and Chervon. DO IT.
I'd be surprised if the kobalt line stays around with the new flex line being supplied by chervon as well
@@dodge8802 Depends on whether Lowe’s wants a House brand or not.
Flex’s marketing is targeted at professional users. That’s not Kobalt’s market. Kobalt sits as a competitor to Ridgid and Ryobi for Lowe’s. The XTR line was a direct shot at Ridgid.
I think the fact that they have developed this relationship with Chervon says that they are going to focus on the release of Flex and solidify them as the Professional brand and then release more Kobalt and Skil down the line.
It’s just starting to take quite a while and they don’t have a product release timeline. They’re too slow to the market right now with new releases considering everyone else is really attacking the market right now. They’re not helping consumers buy their products with their tactics, that’s for sure.
Ridgid gives product release roadmaps and Ryobi has a ridiculous number of products to compete with. I feel confident they will continue to move forward vs Kobalt where I wonder whether they will remain “neglected” or even exist in a few years haha.
Kobalt really makes sense as the prosumer brand for Lowe’s if we’re comparing the relationship to that of HD and TTI. Then you have Skil by Chervon which is a good DIY market product.
This is all me with my fingers crossed, holding my breath, dancing in the rain with no shirt on for the universe to deliver new products as an XTR owner though 😂
If Lowe’s wants to see the perspective of a customer like myself? I’m not a pro so I feel the need to hold off buying more Kobalt unless they start to release more. I may buy more if I have a project which requires it or if there are some serious sales haha.
I didn’t go with Ridgid because I liked the idea of having 24v outdoor garden tool options. I don’t think HD will ever bring Ridgid outdoor/garden products to the market because Milwaukee will face some cannibalization from Rigid.
Also, where are the other AH ultimate output batteries Kobalt?? And your 24v shop vac has terrible clasps. They’re broken at your stores on display!
@@billymurphy3 Has anyone actually been buying the Flex stuff? I'd be curious if anyone here is a Lowe's employee and knows how they're selling. I don't hear much about them and they always have product on the shelf.
@@cup_and_cone that’s what I’ve been wondering myself. People were talking about Flex and their marketing seems successful in that regard, but we don’t know whether that’s converted to actual sales haha
I assume real Pros aren’t just going to take Flex for a spin and then make a switch when they are invested in other systems that all compete directly, are reputable, and mainly have nuanced differences.
I thinks it’s primarily Lowe’s attempt to get into a tight relationship with a manufacturer and just, hoping it’s successful. They haven’t really been able to compete in house with Home Depot’s offerings that come from TTI. You get Flex, Kobalt, Skil, and EGO in one place.
I think to both companies, this Flex release is more important than the sales they generate for Flex in the near future. Would be interesting to see the data haha
I know nothing about anything obviously though 🤣
Oh. My God.
I thought I was the only one who thought of that Nutty Professor scene when I read the name Hercules.
You've earned all my respect at this point.
Yess! I almost fell out of my chair when the Nutty Professor clip came on Lmao!
Everytime I'm in the store and I see the Hercules tools I always go.. Hercules! Hercules! Hercules!! Thank you!
I want Kobalt to make an XTR version of the impact used here. This one seems to basically just be their standard impact driver with a half inch anvil, so if they did the same thing with the almost excessively powerful XTR impact driver it would be pretty insane. I bet it would be almost comparable to the Frankenstein Milwaukee that Man Caver Tools sent you guys to test.
Also, I know they're longer than compacts from big brands, but I really think that both the Kobalt and Hercules impact are better fits for the compact space since they are both pretty much the same size as their impact drivers. Compactness is something budget friendly tools tend to sacrifice for their price.
One more thing, even though the Hercules definitely outperformed Kobalt here I still think both justify their price well enough since Kobalt has very similar battery prices, a much better lineup, and a far superior warranty that is essentially the same as Milwaukee's.
Upgraded from an older 18v kit. ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxW1vOBRCMrgTCDEijzpVzDWsgI-Jm2iQv I independently chose the drill and impact tool, before I came across the kit.I like the 3 speed impact gun. It seems more powerful than my older one, and it can be set to be really gentle. The drill is more appropriately sized for my use. I used to have a hammer drill, but I did not like that it was so big and it was not a great hammer drill. I rather have a smaller drill like this, and then get a corded hammer drill for the odd case I need that.
I would love to see the Menards Masterforce impact driver against the other budget ones!
I think they're made by Chervon so expect similar performance to Kobalt, but you never know, they might sprinkle some special sauce into them.
I second this. Kinda curious what it can put out advertising 500lb/ft
It would be interesting, but it's gonna be the same quality level as harbor freight. Sometimes I shop at Menards, but I don't even think about buying their house brands. I mean, "Masterforce" brand only exists because "Tool Shop" tools earned a reputation for not even surviving a single use!
@@fredygump5578 it is better quality. It’s a kobalt reskin. Same OEM that provides kobalt to Lowe’s provides MasterForce to Menards
@@Mrmareen19 I don't blame the factory for the quality of the product, but the company who creates the design! (I don't buy Kobalt either....but Menards will always be the special place I avoid buying tools from.)
Something to consider about the Kobalt: it’s about a 4 year old design and it wasn’t designed to use XTR batteries. Though Kobalt’s batteries are also a hard to beat bargain: 2x 4ah for $99.99, 1x 6ah for 99.99, and 1x 4ah XTR for 69.99 (nice).
Also as someone else mentioned, the harbor freight has a horrible warranty now. Kobalt has the same warranty as Milwaukee. 3 years battery and 5 years tool.
wait, HF gave up on their lifetime warranties? used to be one of the best reasons to buy tools there.
@@nemo5335 Their hand tools still have a lifetime warranty. And the ICON toolboxes. That's about it.
@@michaelburrell4685 yikes although I suppose they're still cheap enough you can usually buy several for the cost of an expensive tool
Harbor freight just uped their Hercules warrenty to 5 years and I think 3 on their batteries
The brushless Hercules has a 5 year warranty
Wow! You all are almost at the 50K hurdle! Awesome job and channel!
I am glad I found this video. I had sent you an email about loaning you my 3/8 and 1/2 Kobalt. I searched several times and this one never showed up.
I just redid the front and rear suspension on my daily using the Kobalts and nothing they couldn't handle except the axle nut (torqued to 70nm + 180). Great little tools. I got them as the free tools when I bought the 2ah, 4ah, and charger kit.
"Is the Hercules a good choice," for me, yes. I'm already invested in the Hercules line, and I'm gonna wait for the first sale.
Do you have it now? How’s it working? Thinking of grabbing me one
@@aafishin8330 yes. Great, I'm a weekend warrior, and 5 months in I'm having no issues. Get the bigger battery!
After a year and 2 months I think the Hercules 57563 needs it's comparisons re-evaluated. The Craftsman CMCF920B is now currently priced at $149.00, a $30 increase, on Lowes website and I still have not found a 4 AH Craftsman battery and charger for less than $99. Thats $248 total. Conversely the Hercules 57563 is now $10 less at $89.99, is now warrantied for 5 years and can be had with a 5 AH battery and charger, also now warrantied for 3 years, for $164.97. Re-match?
Member deal for one is $55 right now
Yep we need a rematch
Great job getting this one out quickly! I was interested in this one since my brother has the Hercules line. I’m excited to see HF expanding the lineup, but a little underwhelmed by the power on this one.
We're hopeful for things to come. Seems like they are expanding brushless within Hercules rapidly
@@TorqueTestChannel They are, and it's good to see.
Well if they show Milwaukee how it's done, it'll cost 100 more than the red gun, and then HF will be spitting in the face of the poors who support them and keep them afloat
@@ThomasWilliams-zo7ke HF needs the premium tools to compete with the name brands. They’ve been doing a great job over the past couple years, and I hope to keep seeing them improve.
They still cater to their budget minded customers, that’s how they pulled a lot of us in. Starting out, that’s what I could afford. And some of it was good, but some of it (namely power tools) was crap.
I’ve been beyond happy with my Milwaukee stuff.
"Harbor freights flavor of nutbusting" sounds so wrong, I love it
Not sure why ur not impressed by the Hercules, it doing really well for its price, almost hitting the 300ft lbs and buying it with battery and tool will run u about $150.
With battery and charger it cost me 211 bucks just got it yesterday oh and a impact socket set
@@rockman49er LOL i got a 3/8 milwaukee stubby, i just had to have the best and most compact. Ive had and really liked the Dewalt DCF 903 how it feels on the hand, but its not as compact as the stubby with the 2.0/2.5 amp battery. Ive spent $225 on the 3/8 stubby, comes with 2.0 and 4.0 amp battery and charger on ebay (Milwaukee 2554-22) which was a steal.
@@rockman49er HCB84B2 hercules + 5A battery + charger is now $99. but v2 I just bought can't loosen a lug nut at 129ft/lb for me, so not a good deal afterall...
@alaind831 o got the 3/8 20v impact I think I paid 59 or 69 tool only and it took the lugnuts off a huge heavy hauling 2 piston lift trailer no problem
@@rockman49er I think maybe some quality control issue cause 2 units I brought (late 2023 build, and week 11 2024 build) were not able to loosen my car lug nuts. others having same issue, but some swear by it...
I got the kobalt one for "free" with a battery kit during a sale. I actually like it for suspension work but isn't all that powerful. Glad to see they are staying modest with the rating on the box.
However value is good. Being I got the tool, 4ah and 2ah and a charger for $129
A got my milwaukee for 220$ as a kit from northern tool. They have a 100$ off if you purchase a 15$ accessories with it. So 235$ and I got 2 batteries charger and the tool with a bit set. You just have to really look around for the deals. i would never buy from home depot thats for sure
@@GamingwithIinfected I have already been in the kobalt system for a while with a ton of batteries even at the point of buying this one. I have looked at milwaukee at home depot, they have it priced way too high. Rual king is better priced.
I won't be buying milwaukee at this point, not because they are bad. I like them but not getting another battery system. Already have 5 systems between the power tools and lawn equipment.(Kobalt 24v,40v, skil 12v, bauer 20v,porter cable 20v(this will be leaving soon).
I’m in the same boat. Can now get Milwaukee for 10% over cost. I’m too far deep in the Kobalt ecosystem (all XTR plus a ton of close out lights, right angle impact, 3/8 “mid torque,” etc. to flip over).
I think an XTR version of what they tested here would be about ideal for my under car use.
The XTR driver claims a roughly 33% increase in power over the standard (2400 in-lb vs 1800). In theory, the XTR driver should come in at just under 300. Obviously this is just speculation and I doubt they’d upgrade such a low volume tool.
They look similar enough to potentially swap the 3/8 anvil into an XTR driver, but I haven’t had the time to tear both apart.
@@drunkonunleaded I agree that the xtr version would likely be better. I keep waiting for it and hoping.
They do look similar and I have them both as well. Would be interesting to see if they are interchangeable.
Congrats on 50k, here's to 100k
The price is down to $64.99 and I just got mine last week for $52 cause they had one open box at my store! Crazy value for $52!!!
Just picked this up on clearance today for a little over $50, love the performance at that price for sure.
Thinking about using the 25% discount they have going. Should be about $50.
The Dewalt DCF921B is similar in weight at 2.4lbs and makes on your testing 320ft. lbs. The Hercules weights 2.7lbs and your testing it makes 300ft. lbs. so pretty close and is just a bit heavier at 0.3lbs more than the compact Dewalt. I think this is more of a compact wrench in terms of weight. In terms of mid torque The Ryobi 262 weighs in at 3.75lbs now that is a BIG difference in weight another +1 pounds and that makes 440ft. lbs. That said, you can find the Dewalt DCF921B now on discount around $140 on amazon and lightly used ones on Facebook/Offerup for like $100 and you get a proper warranty with 3 years so I went for that instead of the Hercules.
I have the Craftsman half inch impact, and it really does deliver like you see.
I just got the Craftsman today at Lowe's for $83! That's a steal. Hands down the greatest bang for the buck. It will go nicely with my V20 Brushless drill.✌🏻🇺🇸
What’s the model number on that craftsman? I want to look into it more
I would almost buy Kobalt just for their honesty.
And the 5 year warranty vs Hercules 90 day
5 year warranty too.
@@aaronporter2180 As of August this year HF have given all brushless tools a 5 year warranty. Really levels the playing field.
Yeah you liar!
This Hercules impact went on clearance and harbor freight had their 30% off sale on all clearance items. I just bought this exact impact for $35 today and 5 years of warranty! What an absolute score!!!
Another outstanding test as always. Thank you for putting it through its paces for us to see the real numbers beyond the packaging and hype. Keep up the great work !
I'm new to tools but I was advised that it would make my life a lot easier because I was going to start working on suspension components on my vehicle. parts like the coils, struts, control arms, upper and lower, things like that. I'm trying to learn how much tool I really need for these. They're on just cars and mid sized suv's. Not anything on a large truck. not yet anyway.
Looking up things on 3/8's or 1/2's. Mid torque, high torque. Not entirely sure. Hopefully I can learn what I need to best fit my needs. hopefully without breaking the bank.
I'm hoping these Hercules ones would fit my needs. They'll probably all fit my needs but I'm eager to learn.
I own the impact driver, hammer drill/driver, brushless 7 1/4 saw, and a light. Bought the drill with a charger, 2.5ah, and case for I believe $120 4 years ago and have added another 2.5ah battery and a 5ah battery. My only real complaint is the impact driver. It does a good job for most things just seems to be lacking in power to the Bauer and now Bauer has a new brushless offering that I’d really like to see. The drill is epic for what I gave for it though. I’ve really put it through it’s paces HARD. Even put a 2” bimetal hole saw and cut holes through 1/4” metal. Was really really hoping this would be a little better offering as well but might end up in a vehicle for changing tires on the road and might jump to a dewalt line of tools
I bought a Mokeneye brushless 1/2" impact from Amazon for $69.00. Tool, battery and charger all included. 300ft.lbs. It works good for home shop auto restoration projects. Tired of paying extra for Chinese made "American Brands".
Wow, just looked at the coupons for this week and the 57564 3/8 impact is on sale for 65 with coupon already.
Its a steal
Would love to see how the dewalt DCF894 stacks up with these. I'm sure SBD tuned down the craftsman by 10-15% as to not upset lord black and yellow.
After about 9 months of owning the Hercules and 6 months of owning the m12 fuel, I find myself going for the Herc first because if it’s narrow head, but surprisingly, the m12 seems to break free more things than the Hercules… very strange
Really seems like the Kobalt mid torque is just an impact driver with a 1/2" head, advertising similar torque levels as the driver, about the same size too
Can't wait for the DeWalt 1/2" mid torque! It's a Lil beast!! Love using it.
Been waiting patiently on a good review on this for over a year from TTC or STR(shop tool review). Gotta be soon!
I really like mine too!
It would be interesting to see where it lies
@@leemarchant7191 From the reviews out there its not even close to the old M18 mid torque. Would still be nice to finally see some real numbers though, to settle it.
I question the reliability. Numbers don't mean anything if it gives out too easily. I had the Bauer. Crapped out on me only two days of use. Went through 3 Earthquake impacts within ninety days. Kobalt Brushless non XTR I still have it and it still runs smoothly. And this is all in the 1/2 impact wrench platform. I'm just entry level in my field.
id love to see Kobalt make a mid range torque wrench bc this 1/2 in. is basically like an impact driver
Thank you so much for doing this channel, I haven’t bought a torque wrench yet because I’m in collage and cant afford one, but i am definitely referencing this channel when i do and i am pointing anyone looking for a torque wrench, air hammer, or flashlight to this channel also!
General rule of thumb when tightening or loosening a fastener if after 10 seconds there is no movement give up and go home regroup and then go buy the next tier up Milwaukee and try again
Did you guys ever test this tool with the "big daddy" 8AH/12AH batteries? Bigger batteries make a big difference in some of these things.
GOOD SHOW,,, NOTHING MUCH TO SAY THIS TIME ... EXCEPT THAT WE LOVE THIS TTC CHANNEL!!!!!!!!!
I went into Harbor Freight today and saw they had the Hercules Impact shown here for free when you buy the battery & charger for $119.
Another good test. Thanks! Also... would like to see Makita little guy the XWT14Z.
Hope to see the Ridgid subcompact 1/2” impact wrench soon!
The Craftsman V20 1/2 impact is trending on Lowe's website....could it be because of a certain video? 😛
Love the work you guys do. Always great and professional content! I was wondering if y’all could review Durofix’s 1/2 inch impact. Another channel I watched did a review and it really surprised them
I really cannot tell what HF is doing with the bauer/hercules lines. I thought bauer was supposed to be a homegamer/Ryobi competitor, and hercules was more of a professional level tool. But their pricing is all over the place.
Understood Hercules when it was brushed tools. If you're going to introduce a new Brushless line within it - and it's $99? They gotta have some people smarter than us working on these, it likely is good for sales on people walking around a store needing something. But who are they targeting in the market? What brand are they comparing to, their website shows comparisons with 8 year old Milwaukee fuel tools that aren't for sale anymore. Are they going after people with access to time machines?
@@TorqueTestChannel lol, now that would be good tools to compare old outdated tools vs new one's..... but yeah the bauer/ hercules lines seems good (beware of looks) at the store, but then I always remember there are better tools out there...HF still need that time machine to catch up to the big boys like Milwaukee, Makita, Dewalt...
@@TorqueTestChannel It almost seems like, despite having the same parent company, Bauer and Hercules are competing against eachother. As for comparing to such old tools, maybe they are trying to catch the eye of people who have a tool that is maybe getting a bit long in the tooth, and they want to upgrade?
could you test this Hercules with a 12ah to see how much torque it makes? I have the 4ah extreme battery for my 1/2 mid torque herc but I also have a 12ah extreme battery that I steal from my ultra torque when I need extra juice and it does spin a bit faster so I’m wondering how much extra torque it gives as well
Almost purchased one of these Hercules. Glad I didn’t. Their false advertising torque values were disturbing. If they would have been more honest at least they would have a good go at that compact to mid torque family of impact wrenches. Thanks again for a great job.
Can y'all test the Bosch freak 1/2", really good deal recently, would like to see it tested against other mid torques
Sure. But it's not a mid-torque. It's an impact driver through and through
@@TorqueTestChannel probably more comparable to the compacts I guess, not really sure of the footprint
I have the freak and it doesn't have enough ass to be a mid torque. Like TTC said it's just an impact driver and that's about it. I don't see why they put a 1/2 drive anvil on it.
@@silvermanrol correct, I have the Freak 2 and it's more comparable to a compact wrench. I'd rather see the GDS18V-221 compact wrench. It's rated for about 70 ft-lbs more than the Freak 2 and almost no one has videos of that one
@@chefshadetree3972 freak 1 or 2?
I bought this hercules impact for $65 at my harbor freight, steal of a deal if you ask me
I would like to see you try out the Menards brand masterforce in your review
Thank you keep up the great content
This channel needs to be at 350,000 subscribers by August 7th 2022. If we can get it there and my prediction comes true and my constant bragging this Channel Everywhere I Go maybe I can beg them for one of those nice impact drives. I literally talk about this Channel with everybody I know that uses tools or any UA-cam I go and visit with tools for mechanics. In an age of information and disinformation channels like this are fantastic
I want to see the kobalt get a gen 2. Maybe an xtr if you would.
I like the kobalt for some light duty jobs but do feel it needs more torque.
Did you ever test the Hercules with the extreme performance batteries?
Yeah he didn't use the best battery best battery gives you the best performance that goes on any thing
As a professional plumber . I run Milwaukee for all of my normalities , and because they offer specific tools for us no one else does , and for everything else like my fan my radio my angle and my key saw are all Hercules , just got them so we’ll see how they do as I work on a lot of different kind of job sites . Kinda doing it as a dare lol
Honda Lube Tech here : When it comes to things such as lug nuts which can be torqued anywhere from 85-130ft lbs+ .The harbor freight 1/2 in impact has not been able to remove all the lug nuts needed throughout my workday. DISCLAIMER : I am only able to use the 2.5 AH battery at the moment due to the 5AH battery shortage all Harbor freights seem to be experiencing , so my current observation may change once the gun has a bit more juice available to it. Just keep this post in mind if you are considering said impact. If you cannot get the 5Ah batteries id simply go with the new EARTHQUAKE air impacts, its been reliable and has plenty of usable torque to bust out lug nuts everyday 8+ hours. Hope this helps. ( Will update once i get my hands on a 5AH battery)
Update. The 5 Amp hr battery did not solve the lack of torque needed to remove wheel lug nuts off consistently throughout my day
oof
It's all in the battery that you have. The best battery gives you the best performance with the Hercules.
@@charlesbellino4359 as stated previously. The Bigger batter did not solve the issue of lug nuts with more than about 85 ft lbs of torque
Have you tried the 4ah or larger extreme performance batteries? The extreme performance batteries definitely make my Hercules impact driver stronger
Herc was $119 for a 5ah battery, charger and tool kit. Heck of a sale
Would realy like to see some new skil tools on your channel. They even have a right angle impact wrench.
Really like your content.
I know that it had been put through many tests, but I'd love to see the Drillpro - knockoff Makita - impact wrench being properly dyno'd and tested against the original, or even by itself - it's really cheap, but does it make enough beans to warrant a try?
Would be awesome if you could try the impact wrench from Einhell / Ozito. See how they stack up to the other budget brands.
I just bought the Hercules 3/8 impact with the 3.5 mah. battery, (no 5.0 mah batteries in stock) It is pretty weak! Hopefully the 5.0 battery will help when I can get one. I should have spent a little more and bought the Craftsman.
Can you try out this test now with the new 4AH and 8AH extreme output 21700 cell batteries and see how performance changes?
I think the Makita Xwt17/18 should be represented mid torque standard instead of the Milwaukee at this moment.
Nothing else going to touch that for now. Plus, in this case these tools were about the same length.
I won’t lie man, the Hercules is not a bad tool that thing breaks rusted boots like a mofo without pb blaster.
best part is that 1/2inch mid torque hercules is now $65 with the slightly weaker brother with a 3/8inch anvil at $60
I would definitely make a case for the Kobalt being a compact. Relatively long but the head-size is much slimmer than for example an M12 Fuel while making almost identical power. I own both, use them in the workshop and honestly the Kobalt gets into tight spaces better, being an inch longer makes a lot less difference than the head-size on the M12. Lot of times where I'd need an extension on the M12 but the Kobalt just slots in.
Excellent informative review once again! Great work guys. Love the channel.
I'll have a very hard time forgetting the brushless Kobalt took but whooping from a Bauer. Looks like Kobalt was aiming at Ryobi.
Wonder how the Hercules 3/8 and 1/2" mid torques perform with the better extreme 8 & 12ah batteries?
Anyway you can do a quick update TTC?
great job on 50,000 subs you guys
The Hercules normal price now is $65, and it went on sale last month for $55
Whats interesting about the earthquake lineup is that they are rebranded durofix impacts, which ALSO OFFER BRUSHLESS OPTIONS. Harbor freight is missing the mark by not trading the brushed setup for the brushless motors
I came for the reviews I stayed for the puns and innuendo lol
We have already seen some brushless offerings in the Bauer, including a new 1/4" brushless impact! Interested to see if the (awesome) 3/8 Bauer impact gets an upgrade and if they hopefully completely revamp the (garbage) 1/2 Bauer impact.
Just picked one of these (first gen) on clearance for $50, with the free 5.0 battery.
Despite being long, it's slim size kinda put it up against the compact M18 in my eyes. I have a slimmer air impact should I really need the small size.
So far, seems like a deal! If you can snag one of the clearance rack, it's hard to argue with the price to performance ratio at the moment
Now 2 years later I can get the Hercules with a 5 amp battery and charger for $119.99. Still looking for a re-match.
Watching in anticipation of the hercules 1400ft lb test and new big battery test
That Craftsman you like, here in your video, isn't the same wrench as your Amazon link.
I wonder what the Bauer brushless impact is like. The one that looks exactly like this one haha
50k subs this week!!! Here's hoping to 200k subs to close the year
Saw a video of Herc brushless 1/4 in driver and it had 500 ft lbs breakaway torque . With 4.0 high performance Ah battery . Just what speed did you run it ? You left out that part . I don't own any Hercs but seems they got good battery option with the 2.5 , 4.0 and the 5.0 Ah ones
20 volt tools in The USA is max voltage but it’s nominal voltage is 18 volts.
The left hex bolt on your test jig was dancing
Those should be lose. They are only being used when the main bolt is taken out so the face plate doesn't fall off
Until you’ve tried the WAKYME 1/2” Impact, you’ve not seen exaggerated numbers. I did a review on one, rated at 250 ft lbs, it barely made 125. Just creeping into medium 3/8 territory at best.
Seems like 95% of manufacturers advertise best possible laboratory numbers, using their best unit in a space vacuum. The cheaper they are the worse the exaggeration is.
I would love to see the harbor freight stuff with a diff battery mated to it. I mated a dewalt 60v battery to one and it made the tool 💯 stronger
One thing I've noticed with my own kobalt tools is that some of the tools work better with the standard battery and 2ah battery. Not sure why but might be one to test.
same, i got a kobalt 1/2 compact and it feels slightly less powerful on the xtr battery than the normal 4ah
Honest question with the newer higher amp battery’s would the numbers be higher ?
Dewalt 894 please!
Could you guys test the Makita XWT14Z?
Need to put some model numbers on tool like the craftsman. I can't find it the link is different tool
I don't understand why the Hercules is cheaper than the Bauer when the former is supposed to be the flagship cordless tool brand from HF and it shows with the brushless motor and selectable speeds, while Bauer takes the mid grade/prosumer spot.
Man I wish we could get just half of those over here!
Please do the Bauer 3/8"! It's not super powerful, but in the hand it seems to perform almost as well as the terrible Bauer 1/2".
Neat..........I think your evaluation is fair.
That Kobalt is not a mid torque. It's exactly the same as the 1/4" hex compact impact driver with a 1/2" anvil.