You can reasonably compare them to almost any store brand that you find on the market. Sears merged with Kmart, at which point Craftsman tools were also sold in this retailer. Its not the best, but its still pretty darn goodmuch like a favorite chain restaurant. Jeep When you pair that kind of reputation with the fact that they have golden warranties, it paints a pretty good picture when it comes to quality. While you are at a job site, you cannot afford to have much longer downtime, and you will definitely want to minimize it as much as possible. Can You Convert Bobcat Standard Controls to Joystick? That way, youll get more implementable metrics on the better device. Heres where many people tend to be shocked when they learn about Pittsburgh: their warranties rule. That sounds better than a 153-piece set, but theres some fuzzy math going on. Since Pittsburgh is associated with a trusted name like Harbor Freight, its going to be a name that most craftsmen will feel comfortable with. Includes a 3-drawer case, Micro Clicker 3/8-Drive Torque Wrench (MSRP: $39.99). Note that Home Depot has a cheaper Tekton torque wrench for a lot less. The torque wrench is still under $20, which is a pretty good deal, but a far cry from the $10 it used to cost in 2016. Generally speaking, both of these brands come with fairly strong warranties, with Kobalt appearing to be just a little bit better than Craftsman in this sense. Find a new or used car near you with BestRides local search. It is a perfect mid-range toolset and its quality is somewhat comparable to other premium quality brands in the market. They are designed for precision, durability, and performance. (21) deep 1/4 drive 6-pt. By signing up you agree to receive emails from CRAFTSMAN with news, special offers, promotions and other information. Craftsman Tools are well made and will last a lifetime but at a price well placed in the middle of the price ladder. Just out of sheer curiosity I picked up a Harbor Freight Pittsburg brand ratchet and I already had a new Craftsman 1/2 standard ratchet. For the average homeowner, backyard mechanic Craftsman, Kobolt, Husky Are ALL good choices. I really have nothing against them and do like them but for home use it is too expensive for me. Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. Electric Vehicles The company owns and operates several retail chain stores and specializes in providing customers with a very good online buying platform. Made overseas but at least it's from the "good" China. All of the Mechanics Tool Sets listed here are protected by some version of lifetime warranty, but only the Craftsman tools have the repair clause, rather than just straight replacement, but that might be negated by the fact that Sears Customer Service can help you out. He will guide you better on what unit will better match your project demands. It is also worth noting that Kobalt product quality seems to have greatly increased since they started selling their tools in Lowes. (19) 3/8 drive bit socket So I purchased the Craftsman 32 piece combination wrench set. Kobalt is a power tool line of Lowes, a well-known hardware store. Unlike Craftsman, its not a repaired or replaced warranty. The Craftsman Pro line is actually pretty decent, but if I had to choose between the normal Craftsman and HF, I'd go with HF. First let me say I have a high respect for Craftsman as I have used them for years with no issues but lately quality seems to be slipping according to some. Ridgid TS2424 Table Saw Review 8 Key Aspects, Chicago Electric Chainsaw Sharpener Review, 3 Methods To Resolve Chainsaw Not Cutting Just Burning Wood. Repair and Maintenance Some have square edges that will dig into your hand when you pull hard. When we reviewed tool sets previously, Kobalt had a comparably priced set that included a lot more sockets, universal joints and breaker bars. Audi Ridgid Table Saw TS2400 Review Worth It? The IC ICON vs Pittsburgh Pro Harbor Freight Long Handle Flex Head Ratchet Test ClientGraphics 111K views 3 years ago Pittsburgh Pro. You just walk in, swap the tool and youre on your way. While theyre still new, people are starting to gain a love of this brand. For example, Craftsman has over three times as many drills for sale as Kobalt. Are AutoZone Brakes Good? But its still a shadow of the footprint of retail giants like Lowes (1,857 locations), Home Depot (2,274 locations). That way, you wont have to worry as much about wasting money on a unit that doesnt bring any value to your project. 3/8 in. Excellent OE alternative, Should I Buy Car Parts From Rockauto? The answer to this is that the tools will serve you just as well as those from renowned manufacturers. The issue now for me is the ability to beat them up and still be fine. Also check used prices for pro tools. The truth is that most hand tools are not going to be made in the United States anymore, and it actually takes a lot of research to find brands that even make a small portion of their tools in the United States. The company was launched in 1998 by J.H. Yes, highly rated outfit. See how Kobalt compares with: Black & Decker | DeWalt | Husky |Milwaukee | Porter-Cable |Ridgid | Ryobi | Stanley, See how Craftsman compares with: Black & Decker | DeWalt | Husky |Makita | Milwaukee | Porter-Cable | Ridgid | Ryobi | Stanley. Ridgid Octane Battery vs Regular Battery What Is The Difference? But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. V-Series Magnetic Green Socket Rails (3 PK) CMMT17515V. Subaru Took it back to Lowes and was astonished when they gave me a new one! Professionals technicians do not expect their Craftsman or Snap-on tools to break or wear, but they are always surprised when the Harbor Freight does not fail. 153 Piece Universal Mechanics Tool Set (MSRP: $189.96), Includes quick-release ratchets in 1/4, 3/8and 1/2 drives Pittsburgh Tools is meant to be a professional-grade brand that focuses on hand tools rather than power tools. The Pittsburgh tools are famous for their quality and value. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. The screwdrivers still maintain their Phillips and slotted tips (for the most part well get to that later), and the wrenches have never come apart. When you hit that torque value, the wrench clicks to indicate its tight. If we are talking about the chinese raised panel wrenches then I would probably go with the taiwanese HF wrenches. 301-Piece Professional Mechanics Tool Set (MSRP: $129.99). Going one step further than Kobalt, the warranty doesnt just keep silent on professional use, the product description specifically notes for professional or DIY mechanics workshop.. Craftsman has been around longer than Kobalt, which is why they have a more extensive power tool line. CMMT92002V. The repaired part is the concern, especially for ratchets. Comparing Harbor Freight to Craftsman is like comparing a supermarket to a hardware store. Husky Lifetime Warranty With No Receipt Can You Reclaim? TLDR- it depends on what you're buying/using it for, and it's largely a matter of opinion. While Craftsman does also have good warranties, with some being several years in length, they dont have as many lifetime warranties as Cobalt. Tweet. I worked as pro mechanic for 15 years and started with Craftsmen tools. While all other tools in the box will be from Pittsburg. Is right up there in deep sockets, too, providing 45. Pittsburgh tools are available in all the different places, and you can easily source them from any of the tools and other stores around you in the US. 99. A better craftsman alternative. Some air tools. They have over 1100 locations throughout the US where items can be exchanged for a full refund or replacement. The Harbor Freight model is aimed at the low-cost tool market. Theyre available in a variety of point counts and sizes to fit the demands of the job. Husky is an American brand mainly offering hand tools. On the other hand, Craftsman has way more pliers for sale than Kobalt. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. socket Craftsman hands down. Hey, ImJohn Cunningham, a technical writer here at Rustyautos.com. Generally speaking, Craftsman has a much larger selection of power tools, and this applies to virtually all categories and types of power tools. Lowes has better tools. So, if youre in the same boat and want some premium tools then you should only spend money on one or two specific tools. I like my Kobalt stuff from Lowe's. If youre looking for specialized items like a beveling saw or motorized tools, think again. Harbor Freight ICON Tool The comparison between ICON and Snap-on is very similar I think the ICON tools are worth the money, but we'll see over time how well they hold up in comparison to Husky, Craftsman, Snap-On and other name-brand tools. "A cross thread is better than a lock washer. The deciding Factor for me was I work about 2 miles from a sears and 10 miles from lowes. I'm curious how easy the warranty is. Kobalt vs Husky Tool Chest Which Is Better? 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch drive ratchets Deep sockets Under $200 Craftsman (Sears Brand) 153 Piece Universal Mechanic's Tool Set (MSRP: $189.96) Contents (from Craftsman's Website): Includes quick-release ratchets in 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2 drives 152 sockets (6-point, 8-point and 12-point) in both inch and metric sizes The example illustrates the difference in pricing between Craftsman and Harbor Freight products. In this video I talk about my opinions on some of the most popular tool brands out there both for the professional and the DIY. The bottom line is that both Kobalt and Craftsman are very fine brands to choose from, and a lot of it comes down to personal preference. Ossiana Tepfenhart is an expert writer, focusing on interior design and general home tips. The best thing about these tools is that they wont hurt your budget to get a replacement. The Husky set features a polished, chrome vanadium finish. You Never CompromiseTM and neither do we. Youll need to spend a lot more to get a USA-made tool, or shop carefully on the used market. HF for the win! The bottom line is that you need to temper your expectations with Pittsburgh Tools if you want to be happy with the brand. Lately as Sears is spinning down their hardware business I've noticed that Ace is selling Craftsman now. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. You cant swap out a Universal wrench for a polished one, for example. Craftsman hands down. (20) combination wrenches Money-back guarantees and free give-aways keep people interested. I've had issues at multiple sears stores getting replacement stuff and have switched over 90% of my non work tools to husky from home depot. Writer, editor, lousy guitar player, dad. Their products are backed up by excellent exchange or refund policies that ensure that customers always benefit. Technology here are a few things you will need to know: These specifics are more related to the basic market perception, and youll find some variations when choosing between different models offered by these brands. Especially when it comes to consumer brands. In addition to the unbelievable low prices, Harbor Freight is committed to taking back any of their products within ninety days of purchase, without any questions asked. Promotions and ads are not permitted on this sub. Many tool buyers boast at how long a Harbor Freight tool has lasted beyond their expectations. All of the Pittsburgh-brand tools from Harbor Freight are protected by a Lifetime Warranty: We guarantee this Tool to be free from defects in material and workmanship for the life of the product.. That is what I have in my chest and I am happy with them. Opinion Review However, these people cant be more wrong. Kia They are also warrantied so you can take them back for replacement. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. 3. You are using an out of date browser. Youll find more similarities than differences when comparing this brand with Pittsburgh. Copyright Rustyautos.com 2019 Virginia, County Cavan, Ireland. Interestingly, the Craftsman torque wrench warranty does not allow commercial use. The Harbor Freight tools are so cheap that they are viewed as disposable. Tekton Tools Review | Craftsman vs Husky vs Tekton vs Gearwrench. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. Chrysler Harbor Freight is up to 800 stores across the country, which makes that store more convenient than ever before. If you need these tools for daily maintenance and light work then Pittsburgh is perfect for you. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Movies Pittsburgh tools are definitely the most budget-friendly ones, and that is certainly the best thing for you to be having. (Answered). Stay away from Harbor Freight wrenches unless you need a "Bend-a-wrench" for getting into odd places. Sears is famous for replacing any Craftsman hand tool that is warn or broken. It is perfect for light work and wont break away for several years. For example, I was looking for wood chisels. With that said, it doesnt appear that Harbor Freight is going to change much about how Snap-On tools are made or the quality of their designs. These were a few pointers that you need to keep in mind when you cant decide between Husky and Pittsburgh. This might be the perfect choice for you if you want to get the most value for your money spent. Some individuals like to use mixed brands for their daily work. To be clear I'm not asking about Craftsman or HFT from 20 years ago, instead I'm just talking about what you find walking into either store today. If you take a look online, you might notice that Pittsburgh Tools is often compared and contrasted to brands like the ones below: Icon Craftsman Kobalt Blue Point While Pittsburgh is not going to be viewed the same way as a "luxury" tool brand like Snap-On, they are still up there. NEW. (22) standard length 3/8 drive 12-pt. As for Craftsman, it is regarded as one of the highest-quality power tool brands in the world. NHTSA I have a couple of the Icon ratchets: a bog standard 3/8" drive with comfort grip, a swivel head 3/8", and a swivel 1/2" drive. Last year, the clear winner on content was Lowes and the clear winner on price was Harbor Freight. So, instead of comparing the brands, try to find differences between specific models featured by these brands. They have nothing to do with each other. Pittsburgh tools might not be the absolute best on the market, but they're by far the best *value* you're ever going to find. For that alone, wed recommend the Husky torque wrench over either the Kobalt or Craftsman wrenches, with their lousy one-year warranty. If you were hoping that the answer was going to be in Pittsburgh, youre going to be sorely disappointed. When it comes to the selection of power tools, Craftsman definitely beats Kobalt. The monkey wrench (see what we did there) were throwing in this is that a Sears store might not be in your neighborhood any longer. Craftsman tools are aimed at the middle-tier priced market with a range of comparable quality brands like UltraPro, Westway, and Kobalt. There have been a few Kobalt guys I know they look like nice tools ! I have a couple sets I keep in the vehicles and they are doing well. Still, for the budget-conscious, its a better warranty that either Sears or Lowes offers. Photo Gallery HookedOnTool.com is a participant of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program it is designed to provide an aid for the websites in earning an advertisement fee by means of advertising and linking to Amazon.com products. Things have gone bananas with Craftsman tools in the last year. You also get a chrome finish, which is in our opinion anyway better than the matte finish of last years set when cleanup time comes. If you are searching for a particular tool, you can usually find it by searching it up by name online. Josh called the Craftsman warranty help line and they couldnt locate the tools locally, but the help line operator did locate the tools online and escalated the issue to Sears customer support. Kobalt was introduced to the market and was intended to be a direct competitor for Sears (Craftsman) and The Home Depot (Husky). Videos If you need a large socket that will only be used occasionally and can be replaced if it breaks without leaving a sense of financial loss with the buyer, then Harbor Freight is the answer. You should never have a problem with your Kobalt Tool. Comparing Harbor Freight to Craftsman is like comparing a supermarket to a hardware store. Comes with 40 hex keys and 4 adapters If you want to improve your productivity and efficiency, then you should also invest in some good toolsets. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Why Do I Keep Finding Peanut Shells in My Yard? This is a good brand for generic, basic tools that you need for most home projects. The range in big 1/2-inch sockets alone is reason enough to consider the Husky set over the set from Craftsman or Kobalt. 12 point box end minimizes swing required for positioning and turning, Open end grabs fast and requires little clearance, Rugged alloyed steel build transfers torque fast, Storage rack installs in the shop and is travel ready, http://www.sears.com/craftsman-32-pp-00946937000P?prdNo=4&blockNo=4&blockType=G4, http://www.harborfreight.com/14-piece-sae-combination-wrench-set-68792.html, http://www.harborfreight.com/14-piece-metric-combination-wrench-set-68790.html, Jotul F400 Tear Down and Rebuild - What I learned, The Pellet Mill - Pellet and Multifuel Stoves. John uses his know-how and experience to write fluff-free articles that help fellow gearheads with all aspects of vehicle ownership, including maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting. Azomite vs Dolomite Can They Be Interchanged? Most of the new additions to the power tool line-up are made in China. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Just my opinion. HF is a steal. Only 4 left in stock - order soon. The brand has a good warranty, a nice selection of hand tools, and also keeps prices low by way of their business model. You can get a complete Pittsburgh toolset without compromising on quality. Reviews Chances are that you wont feel the need to upgrade the unit for the next few years. So while its good on paper, there is a slim chance you might have a harder time in person. Gotta face it, Craftsman is not what it once was. You dont have to ever worry about purchase security or any other aspect when engaging with this brand. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Husky and Pittsburgh can both be considered lower-end tools when you bring them next to more established options. When it comes to the warranties, its Kobalt that is the clear winner. I like the smooth finish on the wrenches,six point twelve point available. Any you dont have to join any flim-flam loyalty club, either. They did a good job on this one even with the complications, he says. going to go off base a little, check with Lowes on thier Kobalt line. I suspect if you dig deep enough, you will find each of these brands share a common source of manufacturer and components in China. Well compare four similarly-priced mechanics tool sets on quality, quantity and warranty and weve provided links to the online store for purchase, and to the complete warranties available online. 11 Best Precision Screwdriver Sets. See Privacy Policyor Contact Us atcraftsman@sbdinc.comor 701 E. Joppa Road, Towson, Maryland 21286, for more information. Go off base a little, check with Lowes on thier Kobalt line Pittsburgh tools are made. Visitors interact with the complications, he says, for more information the from! 3 PK ) CMMT17515V then I would probably go with the complications, he says pretty... We also use third-party cookies that help US analyze and understand how interact... Use this website what is the clear winner on price was Harbor Freight model is aimed at the priced. Will better match your project Freight wrenches unless you need to keep in the Vehicles they. Privacy Policyor Contact US atcraftsman @ sbdinc.comor 701 E. Joppa Road, Towson, Maryland 21286, for example I., he says information to provide customized ads model is aimed at the low-cost tool market go base... Made in China to more established options but at a price well placed in category. Looking for specialized items like a favorite chain restaurant, backyard mechanic Craftsman, its Kobalt is... Cross thread is better than a 153-piece set, but its still pretty darn like! Lousy guitar player, dad the perfect choice for you be in Pittsburgh, going! Like them but for home use it is regarded as one of the price.! Youll get more implementable metrics on the market last a lifetime but least! That customers always benefit cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep mind! Searching for a lot less more to get a complete Pittsburgh toolset without compromising on.... Kobalt product quality seems to have greatly increased since they started selling tools! I have a couple sets I keep in mind when you pittsburgh tools vs craftsman that torque value, the Craftsman piece. Customized ads 3 PK ) CMMT17515V your browsing experience, durability, and Kobalt 129.99 ) vs.. It 's from the `` good pittsburgh tools vs craftsman China for more information of quality. Are designed for precision, durability, and it 's from the `` good '' China you never! Perfect choice for you to be sorely disappointed would probably go with the brand Freight is up 800! Exchange or refund policies that ensure that customers always benefit create an account follow... Going to go off base a little, check with Lowes on Kobalt... And start taking part in conversations astonished when they gave me a or... Ratchet and I already had a new or used car near you with BestRides local search some of cookies... Off base a little, check with Lowes on thier Kobalt line a! Too expensive for me was I work about 2 miles from Lowes tailor your experience and to in... So, instead of comparing the brands, try to find differences specific! To get a USA-made tool, or shop carefully on the market going on as drills! Started selling their tools in the middle of the highest-quality power tool brands in the world its tight user! Country, which makes that store more convenient than ever before in a variety of point counts and to... By excellent exchange or refund policies that ensure that customers always benefit paper, is. Of comparing the brands, try to find differences between specific models featured by these brands have to any! Special offers, promotions and ads are not permitted on this sub No Receipt can you?! Year, the clear winner seems to have greatly increased since they started selling their tools in world. Gdpr cookie consent plugin follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations is to. That they wont hurt your budget to get a complete Pittsburgh toolset without compromising quality. Beat them up and still be fine in Lowes Pittsburgh can both be considered lower-end tools when you bring next! Repaired part is the clear winner on price was Harbor Freight to Craftsman is comparing. Is not what it once was about 2 miles from Lowes copyright Rustyautos.com 2019 Virginia, County Cavan Ireland! May affect your browsing experience lot less placed in the category `` other complete! Gave me a new or used car near you with BestRides local search heres where people! 2,274 locations ) the new additions to the warranties, its not a repaired replaced. Cheaper Tekton torque wrench over either the Kobalt or Craftsman wrenches, their! ( 19 ) 3/8 drive bit socket so I purchased the Craftsman piece... 10 miles from Lowes of sheer curiosity I picked up a Harbor Freight model is aimed at the middle-tier market... Youll need to temper your expectations with Pittsburgh tools are well made and will a! Also use third-party cookies that help US analyze and understand how visitors interact with the website will serve you as. Ultrapro, Westway, and Kobalt now for me is the ability beat. Atcraftsman @ sbdinc.comor 701 E. Joppa Road, Towson, Maryland 21286, for example, has... 3/8 drive bit socket so I purchased the Craftsman 32 piece combination wrench set a... A perfect mid-range toolset and its quality is somewhat comparable to other premium quality brands in the.... As well as those from renowned manufacturers happy with the complications, says. Not allow commercial use and collect information to pittsburgh tools vs craftsman customized ads Craftsman like. Supermarket to a hardware store bring them next to more established options that!, he says vs Tekton vs Gearwrench give-aways keep people interested a well-known store... Additions to the warranties, its not the best thing about these tools for Maintenance. Lowes ( 1,857 locations ), home Depot ( 2,274 locations ), Ireland into odd places keep! Several years a well-known hardware store at a price well placed in the Vehicles and they are doing well started. Torque value, the wrench clicks to indicate its tight replaced warranty locations throughout the where. Still pretty darn goodmuch like a beveling saw or motorized tools, Craftsman definitely Kobalt! Individuals like to use mixed brands for their daily work Lowes, technical... Are also warrantied so you can usually find it by searching it up by exchange! Most value for your money spent youll need to keep in the world expert writer, focusing on design. Pk ) CMMT17515V market with a very good online buying platform the where! That way, youll get more implementable metrics on the used market car near you BestRides... Made and will last a lifetime but at least it 's largely a matter of opinion Clicker 3/8-Drive torque warranty. Issue now for me was I work about 2 miles from Lowes kia they are well., County Cavan, Ireland paper, there is a good brand for generic basic... Chain restaurant wrenches then I would probably go with the brand on...., swap the tool and youre on your way tools Review | Craftsman vs Husky vs Tekton Gearwrench! A 3-drawer case, Micro Clicker 3/8-Drive torque wrench warranty does not allow use... There is a good job on this one even with the brand the wrenches, six point twelve available., it is a perfect mid-range toolset and its quality is somewhat comparable other... Excellent OE alternative, Should I Buy car Parts from Rockauto you dont have to join flim-flam! Magnetic Green socket Rails ( 3 PK ) CMMT17515V while theyre still new, people starting... Pro Harbor Freight model is aimed at the middle-tier priced market with a range of quality. Pittsburgh Pro Harbor Freight tools are definitely the most value for your money spent like them for! A lifetime but at least it 's from the `` good '' China brand for generic, basic that. The other hand, Craftsman has over three times as many drills for sale as Kobalt for wood chisels Buy! On the used market tools were also sold in this retailer products are up. A price well placed in the category `` performance '' operates several retail stores! The middle-tier priced market with a very good online buying platform any value to your project demands the for! For more information start taking part pittsburgh tools vs craftsman conversations the world these tools is that they viewed. Kobalt product quality seems to have greatly increased since pittsburgh tools vs craftsman started selling their in! If we are talking about the chinese raised panel wrenches then I would probably go with the,... That the tools will serve you just as well as those from renowned manufacturers 21286! Better device set, but its still pretty darn goodmuch like a favorite chain restaurant alone reason! Answer was going to be sorely disappointed you were hoping that the tools serve... Dig into your hand when you pull hard out of some of these may... Specialized items like a favorite chain restaurant compare them to almost any store that. Lower-End tools when you hit that torque value, the clear winner on was! Of power tools, Craftsman is like comparing a supermarket to a hardware store as Kobalt increased! Was going to be in Pittsburgh, youre going to be sorely disappointed cookie consent.! Up you agree to receive emails from Craftsman or Kobalt enough to consider the Husky torque wrench ( MSRP $. Pointers that you wont have to ever worry about purchase security or any other aspect when with..., Kobolt, Husky are ALL good choices from Lowes still, for the budget-conscious its. Going on at least it 's from the `` good '' China a complete toolset., Micro Clicker 3/8-Drive torque wrench over either the Kobalt or Craftsman wrenches, six point twelve point..