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Where do you think the components are made...yep China with Chinese metals. You pay the premium to have them assembled here in the US (Only a few) the rest you Pay the markup for Snap On...just like Harley
Sometimes they are the same product with a different name on it - The Chinese Factories will put what ever name you want on it. Example - Yesterday I needed a (big) Hose Clamp for a project. The local Napa (Allied Auto) wanted $4 for 1 clamp. I told the guy I could get 2 for $4 at Advance Auto. He said his were better quality. I said No. I also told him I could get it even cheaper from Amazon. I walked out and went to Advance. Do you really think Napa has a Hose Clamp Factory in China? No - they all come from the same place...
As an HFT Employee I can say that the ICON brand has been gaining popularity with professionals. My store has been selling the ICON boxes better than any store in my region. So far, they seem to be a great deal.
I didn’t wanna get stuck in debt on the Strap on tool truck. I started using ICON and to my surprise their quality and price as excellent, maybe i’ll get the box soon 👍🏽
Snap-On will warranty all of its tools for life, with the the exception of their Torque wrenches and Bluepoint Meters. Those are only 1 to 2 years warranty and only if it's a manufacturing defect.
@@geroldgerry3375 No they dont do lifetime on torque wrenches.. go check that out with your strap on tool van.. loads of their shit is not lifetime.. ....
@@philldownes8685 just like I said, my dealer does lifetime on every item. Just as long as you buy it through him. Even on consumer products like picks and drill bits. Sorry you had a dealer that sucks
I have the 1/4" & 3/8" HF models, and I've tested them on a Snap-On digital torque calibrator we use at work. Both were spot on, and I learned my 3/8" Snap-On was out of calibration. Worth it for $10.
That comment is fitting because the only mechanics I know that are adamant about using Snap-on are auto mechanics and most of them are professional at screwing people. I'll probably catch shit for this comment.
Please come back champ! I been waiting for the past 2 whole years! Your channel was the only tool channel i enjoyed watching every single video back to back. Most professional and informative content 👏
Dude get back into the game!! You were hands down the best tool channel by far. Simple yet fun to watch. So many new tools have come out in the past few years and other channels have taken to making great content. Please get your butt up and get to making videos again!!!
Kingy B And so do many many Tool companies. Go buy a $25 Tekton non quick release 3/8” ratchet and you may never buy SnapOn again unless you need to finance your tools. I have an FHLL80 (which I love) and a comparable Tekton and the Tekton is way smoother with much less back drag. I am blown away with Tektons quality.
Kingy B US tool manufacturers including SnapOn are producing their products overseas now. Taiwan products are far superior to Chinese and it is still supporting American companies. Win win in my book. If snapon sold their products at a reasonable mark up then I would buy more. But 12-15X for the same products is pure greed.
Kingy B You need to go do some research on the snapon website. Every product has a country of origin listed all the way down at the bottom. You my friend are about to be heartbroken. Also certain hand tools are marked made in the USA because a larger percentage of it is made here and internals are made overseas. Snapon has been hiding this information in plain sight.
Kingy B And I am aware of their licensed products as well. It’s a good indication that even Snapon doesn’t care about its own reputation anymore. Money is king and pride is a distant second.
James J. They’re even going after them in that area. I have the 5 drawer cart for about $160. Other than the drawer trim which fell off (hot glue fixed that) it has been flawless.
Lol, awesome comment. I’m not a big fan of the generic materials for reliability, but am for their price and availability. Snap-On can kiss it. The only Snap-On product that I have kept is a small pocket knife...that wasn’t even made by them but has their logo on it.
As someone who is a huge geek and loves science but is mechanically "special needs", I love this video so much. The diligence in testing, the documentation of steps and data, the research put into it, the money spent (I envy the fact that you can blow $400 on tools just to do a review), and the attention to detail are all top-notch. You had my upvote before the video was even half over. I'll be checking out some of your other videos in the very near future. Edit after finishing the video: I'd definitely go with the Icon. The ONLY thing the Snap-on had going for it was a smaller (not better) case. If you're so hard-pressed for toolbox space that an inch of tool case is going to make or break things, you're already in a bad spot and need to reevaluate. Because you can't fit that next tool in. Plus, give me those metal hinges any day of the week. God, that video was so well done. Seriously, I'm impressed.
my arm is my torque wrench. I also have tendonitis so my arm even clicks when I hit spec. Lol. And yes I know if you are replacing a head or gasket you need to use a torque wrench i was just making a joke. Sorry if it was not funny.
This is hands down the best review channel on youtube. I bought my milwuakee 46" tool chest because of this channel and ive filled it with tools from watching these reviews. My only complaint is there arent enough reviews lol. I could watch these reviews every day.
@@charizardsniper5064 or, moving from the rice field to a factory, where they work for a wage better than rice pays. Kinda like some farmers in the states. With corn, or milk, n such. I'm all for made in USA, if it's a better product. That's the whole poi t of a free market. If I can save a couple Franklins, even better.
Gotta watch EricO on Southmain. Serious pro mechanic with quite a bit of Astro Pneumatic and his fav, the Earthquake battery Impact! I think SnapOn has met their match with the high end HF stuff. Their new spray guns look to be fantastic too.
Padraic McGuire I used a $15 spray gun to spray metal flake on a motorcycle. It came out real good, now a car with more surface area may be a different story but for the tank fenders and side covers it sprayed very even and the flake never clogged the tip.
@@xltranger98 I too have used hf's cheap spray guns many times. Ok for farm work, but for auto, esp for color coats and clears, I use better guns. HF has introd two new tiers for paint guns (Spectrum and Black Widow) in the last two years. They are, like Icon much higher quality.
i was in the market for a snapon torque wrench but wanting another cheaper alternative, now am buying an icon cuz of you, you just saved me $300 man.. thank you sir
Wow, I am definitely going to get the icon. I have always brought snap-on. I am in a totally different Financially situation than I use to be. It use to be that cheaper tools were always junk. It seems that these tools are of really good quality. I just want to say your test is so helpful. Thank you Bob
It's great to see people holding manufactures accountable. As an engineer I am constantly shaking my head at bogus marketing claims and the lack of transparency in the market place when comparison shopping. Cheers to informed consumers, voting with your wallet and Real Tool Reviews!!!
I been needing a new torque wrench. With that kind of accuracy combined with low price and a lifetime warranty, its a no brainer im getting the Icon. Thanks for the detailed review God Bless.
I do this professionally. I use a harbor freight torque wrench, just for drain plugs. Daily, frequent use, it's starting to wear out, at around 18 months. My snap-on click type, its doing fine, but it's a larger size, and i use it for lugz. My electronic snap-on, don't get much use, and will probably last forever. I even have the tiny pen sized one, i use one plastic parts. Snap-on warranty, will likely be new internal parts for something like $10 to pay the guy to install and calibrate. Harbor freight will also replace, if you have your receipt, or they have it on record. Snap-on is definitely feeling nicer in the hand, and keeps locked in your weight, and well, just everything about it will be nicer. As one should expect. Anyway. That's my real world evaluation. I will still replace my 3/8" with a harbor freight. I just lock down the lock screw with a channel lock. So I don't have to deal with it ever moving. Since I only ever keep it set on 40in/lbs.
It is now December 2023. I’m again commenting for your return!!! I’m rooting for you man. Please start cooking up content. You’re the best Tool Content creator IMO!!!!🎉
This is the best tool review channel that I have seen. His reviews are honest and reliable. Thank you for providing these review videos. I don't have much of a tool budget, knowing what is a better deal is very important.
Monetization. TH-cam pays a lot of money to people who's videos get lots of views, likes, comments, and subscriptions. Watch videos on how youtubers make
Im a dumptruck driver/mechanic...I am new to your channel, but I really like what you're doing especially in the comparison tests...thanks for putting in the effort to inform the masses
i would buy tools from a harbor freight truck. not every tool in your box needs to be extremely expensive. thres a harbor freight about 1/2 mile from my dealership though... only slightly less convenient
Not only did he spend his money on the torque wrenches, I don't even wanna know what the test machines cost such as the one used in this video, and the other testers used on the impact guns. You do such a great service for soooooooo many people! Thank You!!
Years ago I used to work for an aircraft manufacturer in quality assurance. One of my jobs was to collect precision tools from our technicians and send them out for calibration. This particular companies policy was the technicians but the tools and the company gets them calibrated. On this particular week I collected all tools needing calibration from all 3 shifts and called the calibration lab. I had torque wrenches, dial indicators, micrometers and multimeters from all different brands. And then there were the 2 guys who bought their equipment at Harbor frieght. This was before Harbor Frieght came up with several different tiers of tools. They were the centek and Harbor Frieght brands. I asked the cal lab if it was worth it to even send the Harbor Frieght tools. He told me believe it or not it often calibrates better than Snap On or any of the big expensive brands. The money I could have saved......
I used to make torque wrenches, and I agree. One thing I can say - before using (or calibrating) a click-type torque wrench, it needs to be "cycled" several times. Set it to a lower value, put it on a bolt head, and click it 10-12 times. This will make subsequent readings more consistent and accurate.
Oh, they say you pay for the service... which is garbage at our shop. She would come once a month at most and forget to warranty tools for months. There are multiple Snap-On fanboys that have started buying off the Mac truck because it's so bad.
You are also paying for a lot of staff, drivers, trucks, fuel etc. and don’t forget the guys at head office enjoying a good life. A typical old school company and business model that will either change or get left behind.
Hey everybody! Today I’m going to review this new lactaid 2% milk that you can find in the dairy section at your local Walmart…. 😉 Haha…..stay tuned, you’ll be seeing me again soon.
I’m convinced that Real Tool Reviews is The Lockpicking Lawyer. They sound the same and the have a very informative and professional way of editing and producing videos. Either way, RTR, wish you would upload brother. Your videos are awesome and I’ve been watching them for years. Take care!
John Michael George I’ve been da technician for nearly 30 years and Corporate Snapon deserves to be humbled. They’ve been screwing mechanics for nearly a century. After years of buying their tools I cannot even get the rep to stop at my shop to service all the stuff I purchased from them in good faith that they’d justify their prices with great customer service.
As a response to 2:53, I work in the aviation industry, and we use snap-on torque wrenches, and they get used all the time and I can definitely say that laser etched doesn't "rub" off easily, it's still clear as day seeing the readings even at night
@@andysharp4154 I wish I could afford to throw $400 towards the American built, but as long as those prices are marked up so damned high I'll have to stick with the foreign made. P.S. even Snap-On isn't 100% American made, they still use bearings and other small components made overseas.
@@andysharp4154 Bull shit! Its Snap ons job to earn customers. If you consider buying an inferior product for $300 more bucks go ahead. The buying American dream is dead. I will buy American when its fantastic. However, too many companies in America fail to be loyal to the American consumer and worker and care more about maximizing profit. All you die hard buy American are phonies anyhow. You love our country so much go join the military and prove it!!!!
@@andysharp4154 I personally own all Snap-On, 3/8" Micro Digital, 3/8" Digital, 1/2" Digital and a 3/4" clicker. After watching this video if I needed a clicker I would buy the Icon. As much as I want to support our economy, I also want to support my own personal economy. I own mostly Snap-On tools and love them but their pricing is ridiculous. The price gap doesn't equal the quality gap and sometimes Snap-On looses in the quality race also.
I have been buying Harbor Freight tools for decades. And I have found them to be of great quality. And I am not as pissed when my boys and there friends "borrow them". Permanently.
seephor I think the Icon case is actually a better quality over the Snap-On case. It is just a bit bulkier. I think I would want a beefier case versus a few more square inches in a tool box.
@@truckerpeterose yeah! I was thinking the same thing! It has metal hinges! Actually looks better in my opinion, it might just be too bulky to fit in a toolbox
@@roguestatus9040 that would depend on your definition of best in this case. I believe that having a lifetime warranty and better accuracy straight out of the box would be better than a 1 year warranty and good enough accuracy. Value is a huge factor when it comes to tools, and Snap-on just doesn't have it
Nicely done!! Companies like Snap-On and others have left a HUGE gap to allow for well-made solutions like Icon to take over the market. I need my tools to work and work well when I need them, but I cannot mortgage the house to buy a set of sockets!
Wow. You really tested these wrenches thoroughly. That must have been a lot of work, but the findings are a bit of a shock. I am (was) a believer in you get what you pay for. You proved that theory to be wrong. Thanks for sorting my brain out for me
After seeing the review of the XT vs snap on impact. I purchased the XT, and till this day it has been able to handle every job that my co-workers snap on has at a fraction of the price. Keep up the awesome reviews
I was a Snap-On Franchise owner with 2 Trucks from 1988 until 2005, Retired now. I hate to say it, but I like the GearWrench and Harbor Freight tools now that I get to use them for my hobby of "Flipping" cars. Snap-On used to have a clear quality and design advantage but that has completely disappeared and now they've just become an average quality grossly over priced tool, which really bums me out because I used to love selling and using the tools. I'm the youngest of 5 brothers, all of whom are mechanics, Tools and mechanicing have been my life for over 40 years and I still love it not to mention I'm a Tool freak with 2 complete sets of tools. The Truth is that Snap-On sat on its laurels too long milking its reputation and now numerous Tool companies have caught up to and some have surpassed them in quality and definitely in price. Icon is the Better Tool and Better value in this case
My man. I could not have said it better myself. You should have a ton of replies on your comment, however you don't. This is do to the fact that no one can argue with you because you are correct.
@@MarkK01 Tekton ONLY for their sockets and wrenches. Their 90T has a lot of reputed backdrag, which I hope they iron out because I like how slim the head design is for the price. Their stuff like pry bars, screw drivers, pliers is the same ChICom stuff everyone else sells.
@@corthirteenth94 You are correct on the wrenches and sockets. I do own their 1/2" torque wrench and also a Gearwrench 1/2" torque wrench. I prefer the Gearwrench. The only complaint I have with the Gearwrench torque wrench is the engraving of the numbers. They are to small. If the Gearwrench torque wrench had the numbers like Tekton has, it would be perfect.
Well even after two years of use, if it isn't accurate, with the lifetime warranty you can just swap it out for a brand new one. Can't say the same for Snap-On
@A. Nonymous Not on their power tools or impacts. And not on sockets that have normal ware (the eye edges being rounded from use). You MIGHT find a dealer that will replace it out of courtesy, but yeah.
Wow, it's crazy how I am running into this video in my feed today when I just purchased the Icon from Harbor Freight earlier today! And I got mine on sale for $59.00 too! Well, I have to say that I was happy with the price but I am even more happy now that I have seen this video. I went to Harbor Freight today specifically for a Torque Wrench and I had no idea it would be an Icon as my final choice. When I checked it out at the store I was super impressed and figured that for the money, it was well built and you can't go wrong with the lifetime warranty. I already have a 1/2" Pittsburgh which is great to have in any toolbox but I needed something with a bit more huevos! Thanks for the video! I feel even better about my purchase after watching this video! Giant thumbs up!
DOES NOT SURPRISE ME AT ALL. Good hard working Americans have been getting ripped off by Snap-On for years. I was one of them until I wised up a few years ago. Great video..keep up the good work brother.
Notice we never completely converted to metric over the years, its a conspiracy I tell ya, and Snap-On is in on it. Two set of tools in every box. US standard and metric.
unfortunately good hardworking Americans are getting F'ed either way, cuz snap on rips em off and HF has chinese slave labor that has broken the back of the American labor force. It's time for the American worker to fight back.
@RetroModern USA Meh, automation didn't kill the American Car manufacturers - cutting corners, outsourcing parts and the Unions covering for shoddy workmanship did that. Just like outsourcing our infrastructure and importing all of our products has already killed the US long before computerization could ever make a significant negative impact. Now we're brainwashed to think illegal immigration is the problem NOT the $985 Billion dollar deficit while the FED continues to print cash like Monopoly money, the paper corporations bypassing taxes, severely underpaid Chinese manufacturing of electronics that are sold for 500% profit or the barges of E-waste off the coast of Pakistan.
How were you being ripped off? Did they refuse to tell you the price of the tools then sneakily put it on your credit card or stole your wallet? It was a two party contract that you agreed to pay. Snap On did not misrepresent anything. A fool and his money are easily parted.
Wow. Thanks for the review. I'm in the middle of rebuilding my truck's engine, and I don't have a good torque wrench. I was willing to spend the money on a Snap-On or Mac if they were considerably better, but after watching this, I'm going to Harbor Freight tonight. I'll probably spring the extra $30 for the flex-head version, but that's still a huge savings. I've said many times that I'd love to have a big box full of Snap-On tools like some guys have, but I just can't bring myself to spend that kind of money. They're good tools, but not good enough to spend 4x the price on.
As a guy who only wants one to change tires twice a year, this video was perfect and lets me know that spending big bucks on Snap-On is nothing more than a scam. Thank you muchly for the video
I am in a tech school for collision repair right now. I have the ability to get most snap on tools at half off (excluding tool boxes) Snap on has two things going for them. the undoubted life time guarantee and free replacement without questions asked. the reason you are paying so much for snap on is because you are paying for the tool twice one time. that is how they make their money. if it were between snap on and icon even if I didn't have the discount I would take snap on hands down they have been around for over 90 years and I know people who have snap on tools from the 60s and they still work perfectly. snap on is not bad its just the price scares people away its for the mechanic who needs to get something done very quickly and doesn't want to screw around with a cheap tool from harbor freight. mechanic buddies of mine who use snap on and harbor freight tools say harbor freight is for the every once in a while mechanic where snap on is for the professional mechanic who has time frames and needs to get stuff done without the larger possibility of their tool breaking where with harbor freight its cheaply made and not worth the mechanics time. why not spend 300 dollars for a tool you know will last the test of time if taken care of then spending 50 dollars and keep spending that 50 dollars when the tool breaks.
I want to thank you. My son is in an Automotive Technology school. His tool list via SnapOn is over $2k. I was all set to purchase it 6 days ago. Two days ago he starts telling me about Icon and how he wants to go that way. I, of course, being older and wiser, didn't think this was smart.. your video has me rethinking that now.
I hope you will come back soon because you are the best. Your way of clarification has no match. It’s been 4 years now but I’m not giving up yet Live long and prosper🖖🏼
Brand loyalties should exist, harbor freight is all made over seas, snap on is all made in the great USA, so if you care about US manufacturing, something that benefits the United States instead of another country, put your money where it counts.
@@josephtd7806 even then it's hard to justify. The Snap-on CEO made $7.56 million last year while his US laborers start at $31k. You have to ask if you're supporting a few blue-collar Americans or a few rich punks who sit in air conditioning all day?
This was an amazing, thorough, technical, and informative video. Videos like this help people make informed decisions about what is high quality versus mere brand loyalty. Thank you.
@@bixby9797 40K!!! well to be fair that is what, half a dozen snap on hand tools? All kidding aside when it comes to hand tools, I own Snap On, Mac, Matco, SK, Blue Point, Proto, Blackhawk, Urrea, Craftsman etc, etc. But I cannot honestly remember ever buying anything that was new (Except my Mac metric wrench set, made in Taiwan). I'm not a mech. by trade and it's nice to have some quality tools but I just cannot see paying that much as a weekend warrior in the garage. Also I do own some HF socket sets and they have served me well. As far as the Icon brand goes I honestly can't say how good they are but after seeing the prices I can get used name brands for less that will outlast my lifetime which leaves me with more $$$ to buy more tools that I don't need.
Finally, a head to head between these two! Great job with this video, I can’t imagine how anyone could chose the Snap-On over the Icon after seeing this and considering the warranty.
Kiss that coupon goodbye though. There is now fine print.. Excluding pretty much every tool brand they carry. So the coupons are only good for cheap random items. No more tools, power tools or machines. Good thing i got my belt grinder with coupon before that changed. I found out when i tried getting my drill press
Thank you for sharing this video! I'm looking for my first torque wrenches and am comparing brands. I realize a quality accurate wrench isn't cheap, but am simply amazed at how well the Icon performed. Going to HF to grab 2, a ft/lb and an inch/lb, 1/2 inch and 3/8 inch. 👍
Wonderful review!! I am officially going to buy an Icon later today instead of snap on. I fix Boeing 757's, and we must use the company's supplied and regularly calibrated torque wrenches. We have snap on and proto. They get heavily used and some people are not so careful with them. My main point is that the laser etching on the snap on wears off with heavy use and it makes it incredibly difficult to use accurately. I have fairly young eyes and you can only read them with the light at the perfect angle. Although our torque wrench are most likely a different model and heavily worn, they literally have a 35°-40° swing arc for a single click. Very annoying when your in tight places.
What's Amazing is that you only make videos every few months but your channel grows like you made videos everyday.....it's a testimonial to just how good your channel is ..great video love the channel 👍
I work in a shop and use my icon one MULTIPLE times every day and have had no problems except the rubber grommet on the bottom of the handle popped out but I stuck some silicone in it and it has done just fine. I would recommend even for heavy use
Realtoolreviews broke the internet with this review. Man I always thought snap on would be the clear winner. That's why I've always bought snap on torque wrenches because I trust the brand and believe it will be more accurate than anything out there. Crazy stuff, thanks for the review.
Not trying to defend snap on here, this should be super embarrassing for them and they should be ashamed of this and having their name on it but the truth is this is about the crappiest torque wrench they sell. I would like to see another comparison with some of their nicer torque wrenches.
Who knows how the Icon would perform in a shop enviroment? I don't know if I would buy a snap on. I would certainly buy a torque wrench off one of the trucks.
Well thanks so MUCH! I've went from the cheap, old fashioned lever dial type to the H.F. cheaper type, that's a newer design.... I think that I shall "BUY" > that Icon..... Thanks so much for your work!
I work at harbor freight currently. You would not believe some of the deals i can get, this wrench is my next purchase only because you proved its worth to me.
Cant say the same for the socket set I bought. Some worked fine. A few of the smaller ones I think 7 or 8mm, starte3d stripping. The steel was too soft.
I'm not saying that you owe us an explanation for your disappearance, but a video update of your future plans would be nice. Lol, I've already watched all your videos at least twice. You were one of the best reviewers.
I agree long term durability is always a consideration with any test. My question is, if the Snap-On is already showing less repeatability, and out of range readings, after long term use wouldn’t it be even less reliable? I too would like to see a long term test to see if maybe The Snap-On settles in so to speak. Pretty compelling test nonetheless.. and good point from you Jason.
Careful, your wallet will regret it. Not all their stuff is great, but most of the time you can find a great product. It also depends how often you will use things. Overall its a great place to browse for tools.
I tend to have a couple rules for HF. Dont by from them if life saftey is involved. Jackstands, hoists etc. Second, dont buy tools that are electronic. Side grinders, drills etc. Hard tools, wrenches screwdrivers, toolboxes etc, they do just fine.
I knew I haven’t seen a video from you in a while, I miss watching your videos. Very similar to projectfarm but the automotive tool version. Will you be making a come back? Or if you need some support you can always create a patron, it seems like you have a pretty big following and I’m sure a lot of people will support you including me to see more tool reviews from you!
Good video.i am an auto mechanic of 22yrs and i have watched people over the years flock to tool trucks like it was a neighborhood icecream Truck.and i can say if something can get the job done and cost you a fraction of the price I don't see why you wouldn't go with that deal
I do actually prefer etched or deep engraved writing on tools, because I like to fill them with wax or paint.. a trick I learned from gunsmithing is to warm up the steel with a hairdryer, rub a crayon over the lettering and let it cool, scrape and wipe off the excess *as it cools* not after, and you'll have a nice contrast that is removable later easily with heat and a napkin. It's a good way to customize a gun non permanently, and I've done it to loads of my tools, so I can quickly read the sizes or whatever. The benefits of using crayons also on tools is cheap color options, buy a box and you can organize your tools by color! Do all your Metric tools in red wax, SAE in Blue.. etc. Just a tip. F.A.Q. 1. The crayon does actually stay put very well, even on guns that get pretty hot. As long as they don't get hot enough to liquefy the wax, it will stay put. On my Springfield XDM I filled the writing with metallic grey crayon, and the logo in red and it's my competition gun and has thousands of rounds downrange and I've only had to touch it up once. 2. You can make a longer lasting version with nail polish, it is easily removed and also comes in a ton of colors and they even sell nail polish pens. Paint is a bit more stubborn, and harder to clean up, whereas nail polish is made to be easy to clean up. 3. If you make a mistake or want to change colors or remove it completely, the crayon can be removed easily with a bit of heat and a toothpick. It goes a lot quicker than you'd think. Good luck, and have fun with your custom tools.
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Thanks for another great video!
Thank you @Real Tool Videos.. I am glad I watched this. I like Harbor freight tools and shop them here in Orlando Fl. So ty for the info and tests
Where are both made??
I never buy snap on. Snap On is for show offs.
Are you from Kansas
Regarding HF, I once told a buddy that I didn't like buying cheap Chinese tools. He replied, "What, you like buying expensive Chinese tools?"
He means snap-on?
Icon?
Where do you think the components are made...yep China with Chinese metals. You pay the premium to have them assembled here in the US (Only a few) the rest you Pay the markup for Snap On...just like Harley
Stephen Owen LoL 😂
Sometimes they are the same product with a different name on it - The Chinese Factories will put what ever name you want on it. Example - Yesterday I needed a (big) Hose Clamp for a project. The local Napa (Allied Auto) wanted $4 for 1 clamp. I told the guy I could get 2 for $4 at Advance Auto. He said his were better quality. I said No. I also told him I could get it even cheaper from Amazon. I walked out and went to Advance. Do you really think Napa has a Hose Clamp Factory in China? No - they all come from the same place...
Just watched a whole video about a tool I don't currently need, and now I want it...
yep
As do I.....
You always need a torque wrench!
But do you need 250 ft lbs torque qWrench?
#metoo
As an HFT Employee I can say that the ICON brand has been gaining popularity with professionals. My store has been selling the ICON boxes better than any store in my region. So far, they seem to be a great deal.
I didn’t wanna get stuck in debt on the Strap on tool truck. I started using ICON and to my surprise their quality and price as excellent, maybe i’ll get the box soon 👍🏽
@@agustinjr.enriquez6238 😂
One year warranty, wow........that's like the final kick in the nuts.
Idk where he got that but my snap on guy covers for life on every tool
Snap-On will warranty all of its tools for life, with the the exception of their Torque wrenches and Bluepoint Meters. Those are only 1 to 2 years warranty and only if it's a manufacturing defect.
@@geroldgerry3375 No they dont do lifetime on torque wrenches.. go check that out with your strap on tool van.. loads of their shit is not lifetime..
....
@@laParka777 exactly. no different at all to any other tool makers
@@philldownes8685 just like I said, my dealer does lifetime on every item. Just as long as you buy it through him. Even on consumer products like picks and drill bits. Sorry you had a dealer that sucks
Now compare the regular HF Pittsburgh Pro torque wrench that is 10 bucks on sale vs the 100 dollar ICON.
w2k I’d like to see this also
Id l8ke to see this one to
I have the 1/4" & 3/8" HF models, and I've tested them on a Snap-On digital torque calibrator we use at work. Both were spot on, and I learned my 3/8" Snap-On was out of calibration. Worth it for $10.
Yeah it would be an interesting comparison. You should make a video on this.
Would not be an apples to apples comparison. The harbor freight would be a 150 lb/ft max.
But I can’t finance the icon for $34 a week for 90,000 weeks
Icon does finance now, and at a better rate than snap on
@@Mexicanmike87 But can you get it spread out over your entire lifetime? and the lifetime of your kids? and your kid's kids?
Andrew Schickler same junk bro
😂😂😂👍👍
Josue Guzman uh yeah you can now!!!
Crazy in 2024 the same tourque wrench is 139.99. That's a 40% price increase. Let that sink in.
I miss this channel so much...hope all is well. This is by far my favorite tool review channel.
Very soon my friend 👀
@@RealToolReviews high five ✋
@@RealToolReviews not soon enough
I once found a 3/8 snap on wrench in an old tool bag, I sold it to help pay for college.
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Stonks
XD
Hahaha
😂😂😂
Should change their name to Strap-On considering how bad they screw people with them prices.
I dont wear snap on stuff in public because i dont want people to know im a rape victim
Yup, thats my stand.
@@jackk8422 Lmfao!!
That comment is fitting because the only mechanics I know that are adamant about using Snap-on are auto mechanics and most of them are professional at screwing people. I'll probably catch shit for this comment.
Thats funny riight there!
Please come back champ! I been waiting for the past 2 whole years! Your channel was the only tool channel i enjoyed watching every single video back to back. Most professional and informative content 👏
Dude get back into the game!! You were hands down the best tool channel by far. Simple yet fun to watch. So many new tools have come out in the past few years and other channels have taken to making great content. Please get your butt up and get to making videos again!!!
Hands down the best ... and hasn't put anything out in 3 years. I miss his content.
Agreed. Was one of my favorites to watch.
Luckily Project Farm picked up the slack!
Snap on has always been a ripoff. You get free replacement because you already paid for 4 of them.
Kingy B And so do many many Tool companies. Go buy a $25 Tekton non quick release 3/8” ratchet and you may never buy SnapOn again unless you need to finance your tools. I have an FHLL80 (which I love) and a comparable Tekton and the Tekton is way smoother with much less back drag. I am blown away with Tektons quality.
Kingy B US tool manufacturers including SnapOn are producing their products overseas now. Taiwan products are far superior to Chinese and it is still supporting American companies. Win win in my book. If snapon sold their products at a reasonable mark up then I would buy more. But 12-15X for the same products is pure greed.
Kingy B You need to go do some research on the snapon website. Every product has a country of origin listed all the way down at the bottom. You my friend are about to be heartbroken. Also certain hand tools are marked made in the USA because a larger percentage of it is made here and internals are made overseas. Snapon has been hiding this information in plain sight.
Kingy B And I am aware of their licensed products as well. It’s a good indication that even Snapon doesn’t care about its own reputation anymore. Money is king and pride is a distant second.
You won't get a replacement if you didn't buy it from the guy who is currently selling them. I agree. It's a HUGE ripoff.
Well, at least Snap-On is around to make cases for Harbor Freight tools 🤣
James J. They’re even going after them in that area. I have the 5 drawer cart for about $160. Other than the drawer trim which fell off (hot glue fixed that) it has been flawless.
@@kftc1980 Nothing in harbor freight is even close to the snap on or matco tool chests. I can jump up and down on my drawers and im 220lbs
Lol, awesome comment. I’m not a big fan of the generic materials for reliability, but am for their price and availability. Snap-On can kiss it. The only Snap-On product that I have kept is a small pocket knife...that wasn’t even made by them but has their logo on it.
Travis Edwards impracticable when would a 220 man need to be stored in the toolbox
Been here waiting for years now on new tool review videos!!😭 nobody does them quite like you man!! We need you!!!
I just subscribed and found that he stopped.
Anyone know what happened?
Is he okay?
As someone who is a huge geek and loves science but is mechanically "special needs", I love this video so much.
The diligence in testing, the documentation of steps and data, the research put into it, the money spent (I envy the fact that you can blow $400 on tools just to do a review), and the attention to detail are all top-notch.
You had my upvote before the video was even half over.
I'll be checking out some of your other videos in the very near future.
Edit after finishing the video: I'd definitely go with the Icon. The ONLY thing the Snap-on had going for it was a smaller (not better) case. If you're so hard-pressed for toolbox space that an inch of tool case is going to make or break things, you're already in a bad spot and need to reevaluate. Because you can't fit that next tool in. Plus, give me those metal hinges any day of the week.
God, that video was so well done. Seriously, I'm impressed.
I love your comments
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ comments
both tools are returnable as long as they are not damaged, so no money spent there
my arm is my torque wrench. I also have tendonitis so my arm even clicks when I hit spec. Lol. And yes I know if you are replacing a head or gasket you need to use a torque wrench i was just making a joke. Sorry if it was not funny.
NEED what is that
😂😂😂😂😂
Hmm, Biden's torque wrench is out of calibration.
My dads favorite line. Lol
No worries. It was funny!!!
😭😭😂😂🤣🤣
This is hands down the best review channel on youtube. I bought my milwuakee 46" tool chest because of this channel and ive filled it with tools from watching these reviews. My only complaint is there arent enough reviews lol. I could watch these reviews every day.
Honestly you are the only one who goes in depth when it comes to tools bro, we need more content from you, stay bless and be safe out there!
You must have never watched project farm. That guy is so thorough.
LMAO The people that disliked the vid own the snap-on
Or they don’t like Chinese tools wear the work is done for free in some cases
@@charizardsniper5064 Nice assumption.
@@charizardsniper5064 or, moving from the rice field to a factory, where they work for a wage better than rice pays.
Kinda like some farmers in the states. With corn, or milk, n such.
I'm all for made in USA, if it's a better product. That's the whole poi t of a free market. If I can save a couple Franklins, even better.
@@charizardsniper5064 What are you even talking about?
the highly overrated overhyped snapon
I bet a bunch of hardcore SnapOn users are "torqued off" right about now...
@Ryan Watson Matco has a GREAT reputation with mechanics.
I don't believe the video, our tools are third party calibrated. They have never been out of spec.
Gotta watch EricO on Southmain. Serious pro mechanic with quite a bit of Astro Pneumatic and his fav, the Earthquake battery Impact!
I think SnapOn has met their match with the high end HF stuff. Their new spray guns look to be fantastic too.
Padraic McGuire I used a $15 spray gun to spray metal flake on a motorcycle. It came out real good, now a car with more surface area may be a different story but for the tank fenders and side covers it sprayed very even and the flake never clogged the tip.
@@xltranger98 I too have used hf's cheap spray guns many times. Ok for farm work, but for auto, esp for color coats and clears, I use better guns. HF has introd two new tiers for paint guns (Spectrum and Black Widow) in the last two years. They are, like Icon much higher quality.
i was in the market for a snapon torque wrench but wanting another cheaper alternative, now am buying an icon cuz of you, you just saved me $300 man.. thank you sir
Hes now got a Snap on he will sell you on the cheap im sure
Wow, I am definitely going to get the icon. I have always brought snap-on. I am in a totally different Financially situation than I use to be. It use to be that cheaper tools were always junk. It seems that these tools are of really good quality. I just want to say your test is so helpful. Thank you Bob
I own the both the 3/8", and 1/2" Icon torque wrenches, and have found them to be not only accurate, but very well made.
Are you sure about that??😂😂 go get it checked out and see if the torque are correct
It's great to see people holding manufactures accountable. As an engineer I am constantly shaking my head at bogus marketing claims and the lack of transparency in the market place when comparison shopping. Cheers to informed consumers, voting with your wallet and Real Tool Reviews!!!
I been needing a new torque wrench. With that kind of accuracy combined with low price and a lifetime warranty, its a no brainer im getting the Icon. Thanks for the detailed review God Bless.
Hey OldSkool! How you doing bro? Saw your comment and wanted to say whattap and I'm one of your followers too. God Bless you brother!
If you don't mind inferior metals that necessitate having to use that lifetime warranty.
@@MrAquinas1 who even cares? If you're breaking any kind of torque wrench, you're the problem.
@@joshuamoore3846 Not when a 150 pound toque wrench breaks at 90 pounds.
I do this professionally. I use a harbor freight torque wrench, just for drain plugs. Daily, frequent use, it's starting to wear out, at around 18 months. My snap-on click type, its doing fine, but it's a larger size, and i use it for lugz. My electronic snap-on, don't get much use, and will probably last forever. I even have the tiny pen sized one, i use one plastic parts. Snap-on warranty, will likely be new internal parts for something like $10 to pay the guy to install and calibrate. Harbor freight will also replace, if you have your receipt, or they have it on record. Snap-on is definitely feeling nicer in the hand, and keeps locked in your weight, and well, just everything about it will be nicer. As one should expect.
Anyway. That's my real world evaluation.
I will still replace my 3/8" with a harbor freight. I just lock down the lock screw with a channel lock. So I don't have to deal with it ever moving. Since I only ever keep it set on 40in/lbs.
It is now December 2023. I’m again commenting for your return!!! I’m rooting for you man. Please start cooking up content. You’re the best Tool Content creator IMO!!!!🎉
Thank you my friend 😄
This is the best tool review channel that I have seen. His reviews are honest and reliable. Thank you for providing these review videos. I don't have much of a tool budget, knowing what is a better deal is very important.
Dropped $500 to make us a video. THANK YOU!
I'm sure he returned it 😂😂😂
Probably retuned both....
With 100k+ views, he definitely made his money back 25 fold lol
@@robrage5180 how does he make his money back if people view his review?
Monetization. TH-cam pays a lot of money to people who's videos get lots of views, likes, comments, and subscriptions. Watch videos on how youtubers make
I've been coming back here for 4 years now brother. We miss you, cant wait!
Thank you my friend…..😉
Im a dumptruck driver/mechanic...I am new to your channel, but I really like what you're doing especially in the comparison tests...thanks for putting in the effort to inform the masses
Can you imagine seeing a Harbor Freight tool truck....
It would probably break down often and just get replaced under warranty.
That would make the price go up.
i would buy tools from a harbor freight truck. not every tool in your box needs to be extremely expensive. thres a harbor freight about 1/2 mile from my dealership though... only slightly less convenient
Thats the only way I used to buy harbor freight tools was from a truck. Their quality has sure come along way since those days
then...price will go up 300%..like snap on, matco etc.. Truck price, gas(diesel), commission to the seller, salary and so on.
Not only did he spend his money on the torque wrenches, I don't even wanna know what the test machines cost such as the one used in this video, and the other testers used on the impact guns.
You do such a great service for soooooooo many people!
Thank You!!
Years ago I used to work for an aircraft manufacturer in quality assurance. One of my jobs was to collect precision tools from our technicians and send them out for calibration. This particular companies policy was the technicians but the tools and the company gets them calibrated. On this particular week I collected all tools needing calibration from all 3 shifts and called the calibration lab. I had torque wrenches, dial indicators, micrometers and multimeters from all different brands. And then there were the 2 guys who bought their equipment at Harbor frieght. This was before Harbor Frieght came up with several different tiers of tools. They were the centek and Harbor Frieght brands. I asked the cal lab if it was worth it to even send the Harbor Frieght tools. He told me believe it or not it often calibrates better than Snap On or any of the big expensive brands. The money I could have saved......
I wish you came back to TH-cam these videos are top notch and they are factual
I used to do torque wrench calibrations, this was well done.
I used to make torque wrenches, and I agree. One thing I can say - before using (or calibrating) a click-type torque wrench, it needs to be "cycled" several times. Set it to a lower value, put it on a bolt head, and click it 10-12 times. This will make subsequent readings more consistent and accurate.
And need to be stored at 0 when not in use.@@TitoRigatoni
Except the repeatability should be done at 50% of the range, as a calibration shop would do, but 75 ftlbs was probably OK.
And this is why I've stopped buying snap-on tools, all your doing is paying for the name. Thanks for the review doing a killer job!
Oh, they say you pay for the service... which is garbage at our shop. She would come once a month at most and forget to warranty tools for months. There are multiple Snap-On fanboys that have started buying off the Mac truck because it's so bad.
You are also paying for a lot of staff, drivers, trucks, fuel etc. and don’t forget the guys at head office enjoying a good life. A typical old school company and business model that will either change or get left behind.
@@phbrinsden I'd rather pay for a good tool than someone elses salary or fuel up.
Come back man one more video please idc if you review a gallon of milk lol just miss this channel it was one of the best out there
Hey everybody! Today I’m going to review this new lactaid 2% milk that you can find in the dairy section at your local Walmart…. 😉
Haha…..stay tuned, you’ll be seeing me again soon.
😂 awesome can't wait!
I’m convinced that Real Tool Reviews is The Lockpicking Lawyer. They sound the same and the have a very informative and professional way of editing and producing videos. Either way, RTR, wish you would upload brother. Your videos are awesome and I’ve been watching them for years. Take care!
Hahahahaha….. well thank ya! I’m pretty good at picking locks, but no where near that level sadly 😉….. stay tuned my friend.
I just got hired by Harbor Freight a week ago and I'm watching your videos to learn more about the products xD
Congrats on your new job!
You'll be the only HF employee that knows anything about the tools, besides the managers I guess
How do you like it so far?
I love the fact that Harbor Freight is inclusive and hires just as many women as men for a tool company.
@@nextlevelgamez9243 ...Its a retail store. Don't try and make something out of nothing. Ever dude that works there may as well be a women.
I bet Snap-on wishes they didn’t sue harbor freight because they pissed them of and harbor freight said it’s on like donkey Kong
The low-profile floor jack that HF sells that Snap-on sued them over is fan-freaking-tastic.
John Michael George I’ve been da technician for nearly 30 years and Corporate Snapon deserves to be humbled. They’ve been screwing mechanics for nearly a century. After years of buying their tools I cannot even get the rep to stop at my shop to service all the stuff I purchased from them in good faith that they’d justify their prices with great customer service.
old guys rule 1611 😂😂 did they really?
@@johnmichaelgeorge6284 do they still sell it? Do you know a model number?
crherniman D55146
As a response to 2:53, I work in the aviation industry, and we use snap-on torque wrenches, and they get used all the time and I can definitely say that laser etched doesn't "rub" off easily, it's still clear as day seeing the readings even at night
The snapon wrench was calibrated in 2012 (right on the end of the case) 7 years would need recalibration
Very interesting! It's getting harder to justify buying the traditional premium tool brands
I guess it all depends on who's economy you want to support. Buy American and be proud of it.
Competition is King. The best wins.
@@andysharp4154 I wish I could afford to throw $400 towards the American built, but as long as those prices are marked up so damned high I'll have to stick with the foreign made.
P.S. even Snap-On isn't 100% American made, they still use bearings and other small components made overseas.
@@andysharp4154 Bull shit! Its Snap ons job to earn customers. If you consider buying an inferior product for $300 more bucks go ahead. The buying American dream is dead. I will buy American when its fantastic. However, too many companies in America fail to be loyal to the American consumer and worker and care more about maximizing profit. All you die hard buy American are phonies anyhow. You love our country so much go join the military and prove it!!!!
@@andysharp4154 I personally own all Snap-On, 3/8" Micro Digital, 3/8" Digital, 1/2" Digital and a 3/4" clicker. After watching this video if I needed a clicker I would buy the Icon. As much as I want to support our economy, I also want to support my own personal economy. I own mostly Snap-On tools and love them but their pricing is ridiculous. The price gap doesn't equal the quality gap and sometimes Snap-On looses in the quality race also.
I have been buying Harbor Freight tools for decades. And I have found them to be of great quality. And I am not as pissed when my boys and there friends "borrow them". Permanently.
Where'd this guy go?
Come back to TH-cam!!!! You made the best tool review videos!!! We tool addicts need you!!!!
Stay tuned my friend 😉
@@RealToolReviews Let's Gooooo
@@RealToolReviews I'm staying tuned.
78 Snap-On salesmen were pissed off at this video.
134 now!
146 now
Aha
Lol
I'm pissed off at this video because he didn't abuse them to the point of achieving carnage! ;)
Snap-On all of a sudden got a huge number of orders on their torque wrench case
Hahahaha😂🤣 Good one! Definitely would buy the habor freight Icon torque!
seephor I think the Icon case is actually a better quality over the Snap-On case. It is just a bit bulkier. I think I would want a beefier case versus a few more square inches in a tool box.
@@truckerpeterose yeah! I was thinking the same thing! It has metal hinges! Actually looks better in my opinion, it might just be too bulky to fit in a toolbox
@@truckerpeterose Yep. Metal snaps beat a plastic hinge.
LMAO. It's also SAD that the case costs about a 3rd of the Icon T. Wrench. I like the Icon case better like mentioned above but FUNNY AS HELL.
You oddly have a comforting tone that reminds me of motor week when I was a kid.
Haha! I thought the exact same thing.
I miss real tool reviews 🥺
I check back on the channel weekly to see if he's re-uploaded yet lol. Big fan of yours btw Mr. O!
Thanks my friend! :) ……. I’ll be back in the near future. Stay tuned!
@@RealToolReviews EXCELLENT-- You know how to make a real solid channel!
I'm pretty sure Snap-on hates seeing these videos, but when you charge the most out of any company for tools, you are subject to extreme scrutiny.
They do provide the best tools when you look at the big picture.
@@roguestatus9040 that would depend on your definition of best in this case. I believe that having a lifetime warranty and better accuracy straight out of the box would be better than a 1 year warranty and good enough accuracy. Value is a huge factor when it comes to tools, and Snap-on just doesn't have it
Hey I miss your videos and reviews! Way way better than Tools in Action. Those guys are goofballs. Hope everything is ok. Take care!
Yeah! Where have you been?
Just ran into your channel and subscribed. Hope you come back and post more great reviews about swivel sockets snap on and icon
You need to come back.
1 year without videos. We see you liked the comments but no response or videos. Is this the end of the channel or will there be move videos?
I also miss your videos, hope you come back some day :)
Nicely done!! Companies like Snap-On and others have left a HUGE gap to allow for well-made solutions like Icon to take over the market. I need my tools to work and work well when I need them, but I cannot mortgage the house to buy a set of sockets!
Especially since Gearwrench are now the best sockets money can buy. Snap on has always been a joke in that aspect. No socket set should be over $100.
Wow. You really tested these wrenches thoroughly. That must have been a lot of work, but the findings are a bit of a shock. I am (was) a believer in you get what you pay for. You proved that theory to be wrong.
Thanks for sorting my brain out for me
After seeing the review of the XT vs snap on impact. I purchased the XT, and till this day it has been able to handle every job that my co-workers snap on has at a fraction of the price. Keep up the awesome reviews
I was a Snap-On Franchise owner with 2 Trucks from 1988 until 2005, Retired now. I hate to say it, but I like the GearWrench and Harbor Freight tools now that I get to use them for my hobby of "Flipping" cars. Snap-On used to have a clear quality and design advantage but that has completely disappeared and now they've just become an average quality grossly over priced tool, which really bums me out because I used to love selling and using the tools. I'm the youngest of 5 brothers, all of whom are mechanics, Tools and mechanicing have been my life for over 40 years and I still love it not to mention I'm a Tool freak with 2 complete sets of tools. The Truth is that Snap-On sat on its laurels too long milking its reputation and now numerous Tool companies have caught up to and some have surpassed them in quality and definitely in price. Icon is the Better Tool and Better value in this case
My man. I could not have said it better myself. You should have a ton of replies on your comment, however you don't. This is do to the fact that no one can argue with you because you are correct.
Lets not leave Tekton out of the mix. I find they have some real quality tools as well.
@@MarkK01 Tekton ONLY for their sockets and wrenches. Their 90T has a lot of reputed backdrag, which I hope they iron out because I like how slim the head design is for the price. Their stuff like pry bars, screw drivers, pliers is the same ChICom stuff everyone else sells.
What is a "complete set" of tools entail?
@@corthirteenth94 You are correct on the wrenches and sockets. I do own their 1/2" torque wrench and also a Gearwrench 1/2" torque wrench. I prefer the Gearwrench. The only complaint I have with the Gearwrench torque wrench is the engraving of the numbers. They are to small. If the Gearwrench torque wrench had the numbers like Tekton has, it would be perfect.
i’d love to see a test of the icons accuracy after a year of use to compare it to brand new specs
Well even after two years of use, if it isn't accurate, with the lifetime warranty you can just swap it out for a brand new one. Can't say the same for Snap-On
@@DaroffApFire They won't replace just because of calibration, but anyway you're supposed to calibrate it each year or every 5000 use.
The Project Farm guy here on youtube did 1000 cycles on 10 torque wrenchs and retested the tools
@A. Nonymous Not on their power tools or impacts. And not on sockets that have normal ware (the eye edges being rounded from use). You MIGHT find a dealer that will replace it out of courtesy, but yeah.
what does that prove, you're mean to service them anyway
I hope all is well, We miss your honest reviews. God speed...
At least we still have the almighty ProjectFarm
@@juanlito6056 what is that?
Wow, it's crazy how I am running into this video in my feed today when I just purchased the Icon from Harbor Freight earlier today! And I got mine on sale for $59.00 too! Well, I have to say that I was happy with the price but I am even more happy now that I have seen this video. I went to Harbor Freight today specifically for a Torque Wrench and I had no idea it would be an Icon as my final choice. When I checked it out at the store I was super impressed and figured that for the money, it was well built and you can't go wrong with the lifetime warranty. I already have a 1/2" Pittsburgh which is great to have in any toolbox but I needed something with a bit more huevos! Thanks for the video! I feel even better about my purchase after watching this video! Giant thumbs up!
DOES NOT SURPRISE ME AT ALL. Good hard working Americans have been getting ripped off by Snap-On for years. I was one of them until I wised up a few years ago. Great video..keep up the good work brother.
Notice we never completely converted to metric over the years, its a conspiracy I tell ya, and Snap-On is in on it.
Two set of tools in every box. US standard and metric.
unfortunately good hardworking Americans are getting F'ed either way, cuz snap on rips em off and HF has chinese slave labor that has broken the back of the American labor force. It's time for the American worker to fight back.
@@chuckgilly Ha no one uses standard tools.
@RetroModern USA Meh, automation didn't kill the American Car manufacturers - cutting corners, outsourcing parts and the Unions covering for shoddy workmanship did that. Just like outsourcing our infrastructure and importing all of our products has already killed the US long before computerization could ever make a significant negative impact. Now we're brainwashed to think illegal immigration is the problem NOT the $985 Billion dollar deficit while the FED continues to print cash like Monopoly money, the paper corporations bypassing taxes, severely underpaid Chinese manufacturing of electronics that are sold for 500% profit or the barges of E-waste off the coast of Pakistan.
How were you being ripped off? Did they refuse to tell you the price of the tools then sneakily put it on your credit card or stole your wallet? It was a two party contract that you agreed to pay. Snap On did not misrepresent anything. A fool and his money are easily parted.
Wow. Thanks for the review. I'm in the middle of rebuilding my truck's engine, and I don't have a good torque wrench. I was willing to spend the money on a Snap-On or Mac if they were considerably better, but after watching this, I'm going to Harbor Freight tonight. I'll probably spring the extra $30 for the flex-head version, but that's still a huge savings. I've said many times that I'd love to have a big box full of Snap-On tools like some guys have, but I just can't bring myself to spend that kind of money. They're good tools, but not good enough to spend 4x the price on.
I bought both of 1/2” and 3/8” ICON torque wrench at 25% off listing price. So far so good. ICON lines are made in Taiwan instead of China.
As a guy who only wants one to change tires twice a year, this video was perfect and lets me know that spending big bucks on Snap-On is nothing more than a scam. Thank you muchly for the video
I am in a tech school for collision repair right now. I have the ability to get most snap on tools at half off (excluding tool boxes) Snap on has two things going for them. the undoubted life time guarantee and free replacement without questions asked. the reason you are paying so much for snap on is because you are paying for the tool twice one time. that is how they make their money. if it were between snap on and icon even if I didn't have the discount I would take snap on hands down they have been around for over 90 years and I know people who have snap on tools from the 60s and they still work perfectly. snap on is not bad its just the price scares people away its for the mechanic who needs to get something done very quickly and doesn't want to screw around with a cheap tool from harbor freight. mechanic buddies of mine who use snap on and harbor freight tools say harbor freight is for the every once in a while mechanic where snap on is for the professional mechanic who has time frames and needs to get stuff done without the larger possibility of their tool breaking where with harbor freight its cheaply made and not worth the mechanics time. why not spend 300 dollars for a tool you know will last the test of time if taken care of then spending 50 dollars and keep spending that 50 dollars when the tool breaks.
@@jordanmartin9769 so i say again, for the guy changing his tires twice a year....not everyone is a mechanic dood
If you just wanna change tires twice a year, don't even waste the money on the ICON. For your purposes that $10 Pittsburgh one will last a lifetime.
I would say that this was the best, through review of any product I’ve ever seen
John Shifflett check out "project farm" on youtube!
I want to thank you.
My son is in an Automotive Technology school. His tool list via SnapOn is over $2k. I was all set to purchase it 6 days ago. Two days ago he starts telling me about Icon and how he wants to go that way. I, of course, being older and wiser, didn't think this was smart.. your video has me rethinking that now.
I hope you will come back soon because you are the best.
Your way of clarification has no match.
It’s been 4 years now but I’m not giving up yet
Live long and prosper🖖🏼
Thank you my friend….. See you again soon 😄
Brand loyalty is for fools and items should be judged on their merits rather than name.
Brand loyalties should exist, harbor freight is all made over seas, snap on is all made in the great USA, so if you care about US manufacturing, something that benefits the United States instead of another country, put your money where it counts.
@@josephtd7806 even then it's hard to justify. The Snap-on CEO made $7.56 million last year while his US laborers start at $31k. You have to ask if you're supporting a few blue-collar Americans or a few rich punks who sit in air conditioning all day?
@@josephtd7806 hate to break it to you a lot of the internal parts for snap-on is made overseas then the ship the parks here to be made
I agree, but sometimes brand loyalty comes from a brand making quality products that consumers love. Not always, but it happens
Joseph TD ah yes let’s spend 2x as much because aMuRiCa!!!!
There is nothing to consider. Icon either performed at or outperformed snap on for a fraction of the price with lifetime warranty
This was an amazing, thorough, technical, and informative video. Videos like this help people make informed decisions about what is high quality versus mere brand loyalty. Thank you.
Shout out to all the guys with 10 grand in debt to snap on lol
@@bixby9797 40K!!! well to be fair that is what, half a dozen snap on hand tools?
All kidding aside when it comes to hand tools, I own Snap On, Mac, Matco, SK, Blue Point, Proto, Blackhawk, Urrea, Craftsman etc, etc. But I cannot honestly remember ever buying anything that was new (Except my Mac metric wrench set, made in Taiwan). I'm not a mech. by trade and it's nice to have some quality tools but I just cannot see paying that much as a weekend warrior in the garage.
Also I do own some HF socket sets and they have served me well.
As far as the Icon brand goes I honestly can't say how good they are but after seeing the prices I can get used name brands for less that will outlast my lifetime which leaves me with more $$$ to buy more tools that I don't need.
Finally, a head to head between these two! Great job with this video, I can’t imagine how anyone could chose the Snap-On over the Icon after seeing this and considering the warranty.
The week I was in Harbor Freight the cheap HF torque wrench was cheaper than the breaker bar, so that's my new breaker bar!
Please do more videos.
Dec. 15, 2019---One thing I like about Harbor Freight is the discount coupon they always offer. Has saved me quite a few bucks over the years.
Kiss that coupon goodbye though. There is now fine print.. Excluding pretty much every tool brand they carry. So the coupons are only good for cheap random items. No more tools, power tools or machines. Good thing i got my belt grinder with coupon before that changed. I found out when i tried getting my drill press
The best thing about HF is the reviews on their website, tons of them, uncensored. Allows you to separate the crap from the deals.
Come back Real Tool Reviews! We miss you!
He's pisses off Trump lost
@@joshm2243 I have actually seen him comment on other tool channels videos. He's still here. My guess is just that a change of life situation.
Thank you for sharing this video! I'm looking for my first torque wrenches and am comparing brands. I realize a quality accurate wrench isn't cheap, but am simply amazed at how well the Icon performed. Going to HF to grab 2, a ft/lb and an inch/lb, 1/2 inch and 3/8 inch. 👍
Wonderful review!! I am officially going to buy an Icon later today instead of snap on. I fix Boeing 757's, and we must use the company's supplied and regularly calibrated torque wrenches. We have snap on and proto. They get heavily used and some people are not so careful with them. My main point is that the laser etching on the snap on wears off with heavy use and it makes it incredibly difficult to use accurately. I have fairly young eyes and you can only read them with the light at the perfect angle.
Although our torque wrench are most likely a different model and heavily worn, they literally have a 35°-40° swing arc for a single click. Very annoying when your in tight places.
What's Amazing is that you only make videos every few months but your channel grows like you made videos everyday.....it's a testimonial to just how good your channel is ..great video love the channel 👍
It’s a testament to my awesome subscribers & proof that quality beats quantity 😉👍
@@RealToolReviews This is true. Number of subs doesn't mean much, number of views does. Means folks actually want to watch your content. 👍👍
Keep your head on a swivel. There may be a Snap on truck doing very late, slow, drive by's in your neighborhood soon..
🤣
LMAO
FTW! XD
Found the military guy lol
Insert JAWS theme here.
I work in a shop and use my icon one MULTIPLE times every day and have had no problems except the rubber grommet on the bottom of the handle popped out but I stuck some silicone in it and it has done just fine. I would recommend even for heavy use
Come back to you tube. you are the best tool reviewer on here. I have saved over 40 of your videos for reference.
Finally! Been waiting for 3 months for your next vídeo!!!
He had to save up money to be able to afford that Snap On torque wrench lol 😆
He's so damn good
Realtoolreviews broke the internet with this review. Man I always thought snap on would be the clear winner. That's why I've always bought snap on torque wrenches because I trust the brand and believe it will be more accurate than anything out there. Crazy stuff, thanks for the review.
Not trying to defend snap on here, this should be super embarrassing for them and they should be ashamed of this and having their name on it but the truth is this is about the crappiest torque wrench they sell. I would like to see another comparison with some of their nicer torque wrenches.
@Matt Beeman Yes I know, like I said its an embarrassment they even put their name on this and had the balls to charge so much for it.
Who knows how the Icon would perform in a shop enviroment? I don't know if I would buy a snap on. I would certainly buy a torque wrench off one of the trucks.
I remember RTR setting up a new shop. At least before he went dark. Hope he’s alive and well.
😉
@@RealToolReviews We're all scratching our necks waiting for a new "Real Tool Reviews" video
Well thanks so MUCH! I've went from the cheap, old fashioned lever dial type to the H.F. cheaper type, that's a newer design.... I think that I shall "BUY" > that Icon..... Thanks so much for your work!
I work at harbor freight currently. You would not believe some of the deals i can get, this wrench is my next purchase only because you proved its worth to me.
Who would care about what kind of employee deal you can get....
I bought a Pittsburgh a few years back and it’s never let me down.
Cant say the same for the socket set I bought. Some worked fine. A few of the smaller ones I think 7 or 8mm, starte3d stripping. The steel was too soft.
I'm not saying that you owe us an explanation for your disappearance, but a video update of your future plans would be nice. Lol, I've already watched all your videos at least twice. You were one of the best reviewers.
Stay tuned... 😉
@@RealToolReviews nice
Hope you come back soon! I'd love to see a review on the new LTT screwdriver!
I’d be curious to see this test done after a year of using both tools daily.
Jason Wheeler but if has a lifetime warranty. Compared to a one with snap on.
Lifetime warranty out the door for ICON vs 1yra snap-on! I guess you missed that part
I agree long term durability is always a consideration with any test. My question is, if the Snap-On is already showing less repeatability, and out of range readings, after long term use wouldn’t it be even less reliable? I too would like to see a long term test to see if maybe The Snap-On settles in so to speak. Pretty compelling test nonetheless.. and good point from you Jason.
@@larryduttry9400 lifetime warranty 🤣🤣🤣
Im Also Curious I have Both And I will post A video After A Year.
This video makes me want to go to Harbor Freight.
I've been going there a long time. They have everything from A to Z. Just can't beat it. Great sales, great
coupons. Never had any quality issues.
Agreed and one just opened by me
You mean, "The Candy Store"? Me too!!
Careful, your wallet will regret it. Not all their stuff is great, but most of the time you can find a great product. It also depends how often you will use things. Overall its a great place to browse for tools.
Make sure you bring your coupon!! 😁
I tend to have a couple rules for HF. Dont by from them if life saftey is involved. Jackstands, hoists etc. Second, dont buy tools that are electronic. Side grinders, drills etc. Hard tools, wrenches screwdrivers, toolboxes etc, they do just fine.
their new electric tool brands are actually much better than years ago
I knew I haven’t seen a video from you in a while, I miss watching your videos. Very similar to projectfarm but the automotive tool version. Will you be making a come back? Or if you need some support you can always create a patron, it seems like you have a pretty big following and I’m sure a lot of people will support you including me to see more tool reviews from you!
Soon my friend….
@@RealToolReviews we miss you!!!
@@RealToolReviews where you at man?!
Good video.i am an auto mechanic of 22yrs and i have watched people over the years flock to tool trucks like it was a neighborhood icecream Truck.and i can say if something can get the job done and cost you a fraction of the price I don't see why you wouldn't go with that deal
I do actually prefer etched or deep engraved writing on tools, because I like to fill them with wax or paint.. a trick I learned from gunsmithing is to warm up the steel with a hairdryer, rub a crayon over the lettering and let it cool, scrape and wipe off the excess *as it cools* not after, and you'll have a nice contrast that is removable later easily with heat and a napkin. It's a good way to customize a gun non permanently, and I've done it to loads of my tools, so I can quickly read the sizes or whatever. The benefits of using crayons also on tools is cheap color options, buy a box and you can organize your tools by color! Do all your Metric tools in red wax, SAE in Blue.. etc.
Just a tip.
F.A.Q.
1. The crayon does actually stay put very well, even on guns that get pretty hot. As long as they don't get hot enough to liquefy the wax, it will stay put. On my Springfield XDM I filled the writing with metallic grey crayon, and the logo in red and it's my competition gun and has thousands of rounds downrange and I've only had to touch it up once.
2. You can make a longer lasting version with nail polish, it is easily removed and also comes in a ton of colors and they even sell nail polish pens. Paint is a bit more stubborn, and harder to clean up, whereas nail polish is made to be easy to clean up.
3. If you make a mistake or want to change colors or remove it completely, the crayon can be removed easily with a bit of heat and a toothpick. It goes a lot quicker than you'd think.
Good luck, and have fun with your custom tools.
sorry bro, while I do think that's a good idea for cheap stuff, im not gonna melt a crayon into my G$, or surefire trades
A trick with tools is to engrave a swastika on them. Nobody wants to steal a tool with a swastika.
Keenan Vaughn modern problems require modern solutions
@@keenanvaughn8453 lol wtf
@@andrewc1036 I know it's fubar, an old machinist friend taught me that. And if it is stupid and works....well it ain't that stupid now is it?
I miss your solid tool reviews. Hope to see more content from you soon!
Thanks my friend….. And yes, I’ll be reposting again soon! 🙂
@@RealToolReviews Good to hear ur coming back 👍😎
@Real Tool Review. Yes! Please keep posting. Yours is one of the best to get unbias views.
I thought you died or something. Glad you’re finally coming back.
@@RealToolReviews yes please!! Your reviews are the most in depth and helpful ive come across
Miss seeing your videos man , hope you come back at some point!
Long story short. Don't spend the extra money on a SnapOn torque wrench.