We Didn't Believe it! NEW HERCULES 20V Brushless Impact Driver Review
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 ส.ค. 2024
- Harbor Freight is upping its game in its cordless power tool world with more and more brushless tools. This new HERCULES 20V Brushless 1/4" Hex Impact Driver is said to have 2,200 in/lbs of torque, more than 3,000 RPM, and more than 4,000 IPM. You get 3 power modes, an Auto mode, and a variable-speed trigger. This should be hitting the @harborfreight shelves in the coming weeks and it will sell for only $79 (bare tool). Furthermore, this new Hercules 20V Brushless Impact Driver is covered by a 5-year warranty. #harborfreight #hercules20v #impactdriver
HERCULES 20V Brushless Impact Driver:
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i was sold when it removed 300ft lbs but 500? thats absurd. hercules really stepped up to the big 3 this past year
yea. even though you never see the back of the torque gun to confirm the Bolts are all different foot pounds. all i see is a slim battery dyeing with every Bolt it takes out making it seam like the next is harder.
Me too I'm getting one tomorrow...my huge avid power half inch is a joke
@@Z-e-r-0 Oh please, take off the deranged tinfoil hat conspiracy theory crap.
Milwaukee clone made by TTI...
@@MrCaribe65for half the price with great performance to make up for it? they’re up
I’m a red guy due to the huge number of tools in the system, but I just bought one of these today to try out and carry in my tri-axle at work. I’ve never been this excited to even try a red tool. And they now sell this in a kit with the impact, charger, and 2 ah battery for $98… A crazy value
just picked up that kit today. My Dewalt was taken by sticky fingers but im super excited to try it out tomorrow
Same here! Picked up their kit for $89 with battery and charger. Can't wait to see how it does against my Gen 3 M18 and Ridgid Max Output impact drivers
All Fuel until now. I got me some “beater” tools that just might be better than my “good” stuff!
Yeah crazy. The milwaukee only broke away 50 more lbs than this one. Very impressive
They must lube the test nuts or something I got the same one it won’t move a a differential fill plug torqued to 24 ft lbs. with diff oil in he threads. With a 2 amp hr battery.
500 ft/lbs on an impact driver is insane I remember back in the day you couldn’t find one that could break a lug nut loose let alone that kind of power I may consider switching that ultra torque looks legit too
Switch. There good tools
Ultra torque is a beast. I got the one on clearance right now and it removed rusty left hand threaded lugnuts that my tire shop could not get off with their 1/2" air impacts. They had to take it to the back where they change semi tires and get out the big guns!
@@dustinlantow7138 I also got it this weekend and got the 20% off coupon added so I only paid $95 for the Gen 1 Ultra Torque 😲
I have nothing but Milwaukee but I think it’s time to invest in some Hercules!
Allegedly this driver has the same internals as the Milwaukee Gen 3. Waiting for someone to demonstrate that.
Man I'm always being driven to buy stuff I don't need thanks to you guys! lol I told myself today, I don't need it, but if my store has one, I'm buying it. Sure enough, ONE LEFT. Then I got the two 5ah batteries for $99 deal. I am really impressed with this thing, and the build quality is definitely top notch, matches my Dewalts for sure! Impressive stuff from Harbor Freight, and with that warranty, I will probably end up with a good few more Hercules tools soon.
Same here bud!
I just bought the Hercules 1/2" brushless impact and this little guy. I needed to put all new shocks on my half ton Ford, and decided I was not gonna use my air impacts. Even using only the 2ah battery that came with driver, that 1/2" SMOKED every rusted bolt I put it on. All my other battery tools are Milwaukee because I love their Packout system, but I just couldn't bring myself to fork over more than DOUBLE the cash for their impacts when they'll just be used in my personal shop. Considering the warranty that the Hercules tools offer, I'm EXTREMELY happy with my purchase.
This is great to see finally competing with the big names out there good job Harbor Freight
I’m Appalled 😳 I just got the 1/2 inch 500ft breakaway and now I have no doubt in it when I go to change my transmission so thank you for this
I had it's predecessor, it lasted the full 2 years under heavy abuse in framing, roofing, drywall, etc. Walked in with it covered in roofing asphalt, walked out with this version minus what i spent on the previous version.... If it is anything like the previous version in terms of reliability, it should last a long time. They didnt let me put a new in store warranty on it, but the box claims a 5 year warranty.
Mine still worked just fine, told them it was overheating.... i even still have the original batteries i bought, left in my work van or car throughout the entire time, freezing temps and 90+degrees Fahrenheit... 100+ degrees on a roof, no problem... Those batteries still hold a charge for weeks if not used, and have never failed to last a day plus in terms of usage.
Hi Tim, hf seriously stepped up there game with cordless tools especially Hercules, very impressive driver for 1/4”
No doubt, they definitely have, and they continue to rollout new tools. As always, thanks for supporting the channel.
@@Shoptoolreviews keep up the awesome work,
Last week I purchased the 3/8” Hercules cordless tool.
I am blown away at how much torque this bad boy has.
And with a 5 year warranty I plan on purchasing others.
Amazing what that 1/4” can do…..
Great video and thanks!
I’m buying it this week! Might pair it with a 5ah battery too
Impressive results. Would love to see the DCF850 get a chance at redemption with the same socket and adapter used in this test. When the DeWalt was tested it was with a 3/8" adapter and a modified socket. Maybe just do a short and tag it in the original video.
Thanks for all that you do. You're a real asset to the community.
How is that a fair test when the DeWalt is how much more in cost? If you are wanting a fair test, use fair money. This test proves tools that cost more are potentially overpriced...which we all know without ANY testing.
@@MoragTong_ I would like to see the Hercules last as long as the Dewalt
The Hercules impact driver kills the Dewalt 850 an Every Dewalt Impact Driver.
this 1/4 is better than the 1/2 impact wrench i struggle to remove my lugnuts with the 1/2. i returned it and got another 1/4 to keep in the car in case of flats
Just bought one this morning. Very impressed.
Yea, for $70 I’m surprised they can keep these guys in stock. I’m thinking of buying another
I have the Hercules cordless circular saw, impact, palm sander, and oscillating multi tool and love them. Great tools for a good price 👍🏻👍🏻
Started to mix my tools from Milwaukee to Hercules . Big red because they have plumber focused tools . And big blue for everything I don’t use in my day to day . Started with the lights as it seemed an affordable option especially if broken lost or stolen . Love them . Compare them to our Milwaukee stuff all the time . Funny enough Hercules added a lot of features I thought were pretty common place but were nowhere to be found on my Milwaukee . This is no longer “ diy , hardcore homeowner “ we’re starting to see a lot of Hercules pop up on the commercial side.
Looks strong. Love to see it against the XTR and Flex (those are the top 2 on Tool Torque Channel).
this channel is more credible
@@cismoautorepair7061
How so?
Not no more. Hercules #1
How much do the XTR and Flex cost? Just stop already.
@@stlynsThis channel is breaking fasteners free. Similar to you trying to remove a cv axle nut or a strut bolts. TTC is just letting the tools hit his stationary testing rig. All these channels are cool to watch and give you different insights to a tools characteristics and features
The charger reminds me of DeWalt's 20V charger - I think I'll go pick one up just to see what it will do it looks Harbor freight is stepping up its game 🎯
Drill- Packedge in typical box, came with a tool bag (added bonus), two batteries, one charger, drill, and driver. Two words "plenty of Torque" th-cam.com/users/postUgkxW1vOBRCMrgTCDEijzpVzDWsgI-Jm2iQv well I guess that's three. Nice upgrade from current setup. Has belt clips, I don't think I will be using those. Driver and drill were bigger than what I expected but it is an upgrade from the current setup. For the money I would say that this is a great setup for Professionals and DIY/Weekend warriors.
I can't wait to upgrade from the brushed Hercules. That old one going in my work bag.
I was looking at that same driver friday, its definitely a good one, now that ive seen this test im going back for it, good job on the torque test!
I was looking at the 1/2 inch drive, what do i do now???
I use this for brake jobs with a 5amp battery works amazing brakes free caliper bracket bolts
I have all milwaukee impacts, i also have this it actually is great it is my go to and use the most. It has held up
So this thing is VERY close to the equivalent to the Milwaukee Gen. 4 at helf the cost!!! This thing is mind-blowing! I'll still stick to my gen 4 for now, I love quality!
That’s very impressive! Wow! 😮💪
Yes, it is pretty impressive, especially for the price. Appreciate the watch!
🫡🫡🫡
there is a NIGHT AND DAY difference on the Hercules brushless when you use the smaller 2/2.5ah battery vs using the 5ah battery. The 5ah battery makes them a BEAST!!! On my 1/2" Hercules brushless with the 2.5ah battery it wont remove any but the loosest of lug nuts, but throw the 5ah battery on it and it comes alive!!!!
Agree, and the new 4Ah (21700 cells) is even a step up from the 5Ah. Thanks for watching.
Wait till you see what it does with the 12 amp power 21, 700 cell battery…. You’re not ready.
I just bought one on sale as a kit with the battery and the charger for $79. I'm very impressed with this tool as well as there 1/2 inch extreme impact.
I love my made in japan makita and my Milwaukee, but I’m going to have to get one of these and daily it for a while doing electrical and car repair.
Is time for me to go get this brand of impacts guns thank you for shearing this video
I'm a ryobi guy and I'm definitely going to get my some of these Hercules tools
I have ZERO good reason to be watching this. I however greatly ENJOY watching this 🤣 I recently purchased this impact and a 5ah with the fast charger. I work on my old cars semi frequently. Thanks for the vids
I’m a Snap on army guy by heart but that blue guy is impressive and convincing to purchase a driver soon
You could definitely save some money by moving away from Snap-On power tools. We love their hand tools and some of their 14.4 stuff, but most of their power tools are really lacking in performance, especially for the price. Thanks for watching.
I own this tool with the 5a battery and it is surprisingly strong. I also use it with a 1/2" short hex adapter and Impact sockets/swivels to loosen medium nuts and bolts. I have not had the need to purchase any 3/8" impact because of this
If this tool cannot handle something, that's when I pull out the High Torque (with 8a battery).
Also helps I live in a state where cars don't get tons of rust
Great to hear that it's working well for you. That High Torque is a beast, for sure. Thanks for sharing.
Especially for the money, I have to give huge shout out to Flex for having a fan-cooled smart charger that cools your battery before charging it to prevent damage to either unit. I'm sure the rest of the industry isn't far behind on this technology. I mean really, how hard is it. If it's a good idea, and it frees you up so don't have to stop the job you're in the middle of stick a dead battery on the charger so it can be ready once you finish killing it's brother.
Makita has been using a fan cooled RC smart charger since 2005 when the LXT line came out. Unless Flex does something different?
lmao, makita have been using fans on their chargers for 20 years ! makita rules, dont forget that
@@jameshill4900 flex has vent holes in the battery that line up to the fan hold on the charger so it flows air across the cells internally. It also cools the battery off before charging it not just during.
@@benjaminreed6652 The makita battery has a vent that lines up with the charger vent to direct air from the fan over the cells. Not new technology. Having a fan cool down a too hot battery vs natural cooling then charger kicks in might gain you a couple minutes but again only in a too hot to start the charge situation. If running batteries that hard you likely are going to have multiple batteries in the rotation and won't even notice.
@@jameshill4900 that’s cool I had no idea about the makita batteries having that feature too.
Buying 1 tomorrow to leave at my girlfriends house but I'm thinking I might keep this one at home and take my other drill over there! Can't freaking wait to get this back home and try it. Yes there is stuff at Harbor Freight that's shit but they also have stuff that is worth it and more
Why are we doing break away for a impact driver?
The primary purpose of a impact driver is to install various fasteners, hence the 1/4" collet. We still don't know if it will hit the 2200 inch pounds of driving force. Hitting 500 ft lbs break away is pretty good but that's definitely not the job I would use that tool for.
I am impressed with the adapter. We have seen "better" brands Snap well before 500 ft lbs.
Thanks for another great video brother.
Edit to add, I was just wondering if there is a "formula" for determining impact drive power from break away power?
Thanks again brother.
Break away torque on an impact driver.........because it makes the tool more versatile. Now that we know it CAN do it there will be opportunity for it.
People use these for all different types of jobs. Yes, some even use as an impact wrench 😮. Even use on lugs and such. Crazy, I know
This is just another piece of data to consider when comparing tools. Torque Test Channel has a different test rig that tests tightening torque in both directions. It's different data to consider. I'm glad we have both data sets available and I appreciate both channels for their efforts.
was wondering the same thing, who the hell cares about break away, when you bought the damn thing to drive screws? useless video for sure....
@@nodoubt46ablethese aren't just for contractors and such. Lots of mechanics use these too. They've got to a level now where they can do just about anything a 3/8 drive impact can do in addition to driving screws drilling holes, etc. Its a do all tool for all kinds of stuff.
Breakaway torque matters to mechanics.
It's rated at 2200 inch-lbs of torque which is equal to 183 ft-lbs of torque and yet it can produce 500 ft-lbs? It performs that much higher than the rated torque? Wow.
I just picked one of these up to use to work on gutters with. At the time I am posting this they have the tool for free if you buy the battery and charger starter kit.
I went there for the bower version since I already have their angle grinder and batteries what does Hercules was too good to pass up.
I need to find the extra battery that you showed so I can always have one on charge but the only drawback so far is speaking of the charger I have to return it to the store tomorrow because this one's stuck on hot or cold delay.
Can’t wait for TTC to do a video on this
#1
You should slap the 8ah on it! I saw an 18.5% speed improvement on 3” construction screws vs. the 4ah and 5ah in my testing of the new impact. I know it’s a bit ridiculous on that baby driver, but I know I’ve always got the 8 and 12 around for higher draw tools if I ever did need them for the impact 😂🤷♂️
Video please
yes, please. Make a video man, it would be really helpful.
U just made me go to HF & buy 1 in a couple hours. I don't need it but it seem stronger then the 1/2 compact brushless impact wrench.
I swapped the 1/4" anvil with a 3/8 dewalt anvil and man is a beast
Under promise, over-deliver, let's go! 🤘🏼
"and that's all she wrote" 🤣
I bought this with 2 extra batteries a 2ah and a 4ah. And then I went back and bought the 1/2" drill/driver and got 2-8ah batteries for a special deal that made the almost half price.
Surprised the buggers actually made a good tool, I'll throw that one in with their super duty floor jack.
Right now harbor Freight has the kit with a 2 amp battery and a charger for a $97. Right now they have a deal going that if you buy that kit for $97 you get a free 2 1/2 amp hour battery also.
I came here to read the hate for harbor freight and Hercules, never understood it but I love to start my day off with humor.
Would this tool be good to use for removing engine under-tray bolts on a Sorento? There’s like 16-18 10mm bolts and they’re a pita to remove every oil change.
Any way we can see this same test on the XTR -Flex-Milwaukee-Makita-Dewalt all at 400-500ft lbs test for giggles 🤭
I'm not sure which impressed me more, the tool, the adapter or the extreme duty battery. With the standard battery it's very good tool. With extreme duty battery?....it kicks it up to to another level.
I have the 4.5/5 inch grinder and with the standard battery it's a good tool. With the extreme duty battery?...it is a beast. With a cut off wheel you really have to work at it to stall it, past what you would normally push the wheel.
I will keep Milwaukee 5 year warranty.Hercules did very good
You could have Hercules 5 year warranty instead.
Wow does that mean I can use this for 200 ft lb axle nuts using an adapter?
Watched this, and went and got the kit for 98 bucks next day, hasnt disappointed yet, real impressed with the fast charger it comes with. Going to get the 5ah batteries next.
Step up to the extreme duty. I did (I have a couple of 4s and an 8 amp extreme duty) and the only thing that I use the standard battery for is with the adapter as a phone charger.
@@cbmech2563 definitely going to do that. appreciate the advice.
@@dr.america8822 I bought another 8 amp battery over the weekend. I've got a project coming up that I will be using the grinder a lot.
Looks like a blue Milwaukee
Looks just like the Gen 4 Milwaukee
Yeah, I’ve been looking at the Hercules 1/4 Drive impact wrench The only hold up I have years they do not offer kits which I think they should then they would have an advantage on price
They JUST started offering kits. I got one today, they didn’t even have it put on shelves yet, but it is on their website. For $98 you get the impact, the new charger (worth I think $60 or so) and a 2 ah battery. The kit is an absolute steal at $98. But yeah, the guy even said it was the first Hercules kit they’re ever offered.
Yeah, I just checked the website and I didn’t see anything so you’re saying right now so I guess maybe give it a couple weeks they are still advertising it on their website
I give it to harbor freight, they always copy the best, snap on and Milwaukee for alot less price. Ut for some odd reason my snap on tools and my Milwaukee tools keep on ticking and my harbor freight tools always end getting used for a while then shuffled to a pile of tools I don't even use anymore. It happens to me everytime. There always pretty darn good for what I buy them for, task at hand and then they always get tossed to the side down the road. But I will say they are definitely at least trying and I love they keep pushing everyone else ya know.
Keep up the good work STR !!
Purchased one today and tried driving a 3/8 by five inch screw and half way ot started blinking and stopping. Lobalt next gen with 2ah battery as well drove it in no problem. Something funky going on here
Lies
Tool only is now $69.99
Really impressive. It's literally mid torque territory
Lol na, the dewalt mid torque is 800 ft lbs, more like compact impact wrench territory, but still impressive
@@Lee-lb9qh
Lol. That Dewalt is in high torque territory.
@@MrCaribe65 I was talking about the Hercules. I have that 800 ft lbs Dewalt mid torque it's a beast
@@Lee-lb9qh
Oh, Roger that.
@@Lee-lb9qh imagine calling 800 ft lbs mid torque. What a time to be alive lol.
Im just waiting for at least a 3/8-1/2 version of this driver with just a little more beef to it because their current mid tourqes don't even come close to this 1/4hex
Any notice how much it resembles the Gen 4 fuel?
And the color looks like a Bosch. Lol
@@KosmicHRTRacingTeam more like makita 😂
Spoke too soon on that bit not breaking Tim 😂😂
No doubt. Still, very impressive that it held up that long. Thanks for watching.
Now let's get harbor freight in Canada
We can't help you with that one. :) Maybe Princess Auto (is that the right name?) should follow their lead. Thanks for watching.
Can anyone chime in and help I been looking at Milwaukee but man harbor freight impacts with 5 year warranty I mostly do mechanic work on my car are the Hercules brands worth it?
Can you do the same test with the Bauer brushless driver? Thanks.
This is awesome. I dont think id ever need to go past 300. But good to know it can do it.
Just bought one today with the hammer drill as well
The impact when I put it on 3 it stops really fast
I am returning it today and see if I am doing something wrong?
I ran it with "no-load" maybe thats why but I am very happy with this set up
These impacts are so powerful now that I think it's time to move beyond the 1/4" shank. They simply can't handle this torque. Make it at least 1/2".
Honestly though, this impact is already too powerful for what an impact driver is meant to be used for. Most screws can't handle anywhere near this much power without shearing or stripping. If you need a 1/2" shank, you should probably grab an impact wrench instead.
Can't wait to try it out.
Does the battery fit loose on the new Hercules drill I just got one and the battery fits loose if u shake the drill it rocks compared to my Hercules oscillating tool it fits nice and snug no rattling
Just got my set hercules impact driver got a deal for it with charger and 2.5 amp battery included for 96.96
It's impressive tools I love harbor freight
I have to say, the Harbor Freight Warranty is at least as hassle-free as your other store bought warranties are.
Seems like a good lil tool , I was on Mater's Workshop live panel earlier tonight and he was talking about you testing it out ....
I think I'm in love. Hope I don't get a dud.
It's a good looking tool with a ton of power and I am glad hf is standing behind their tools with an improved warrranty
That bit is impressive. I'm going to pick one up at the next 30% Off sale to use in my Makita 👍 ~
@Shoptoolreviews
Harbor Freight is stepping it up! 👍💯
No doubt, they definitely are.
These were on sale as a kit this weekend with itc
They are supposed to be only 70 I got mine for 80 contacted the store because they were cheaper online and they gave me an employee discount on the ultra torque
Crazy power. Could be useful for those that don't have a designated impact wrench. Time will tell durability and what battery performance might be.
Yeah after a month the Hercules is probably more like mighty mouse. It's HF brand for gods sake
If it's anything like the "ultra torque" 1/2" impact, it wont stand up to professional use. 3 guys in my shop have already warrantied them multiple times.
That's the one thing I'd be concerned about, the durability. Heck could you imagine what milwaukee, Dewalt, etc. Could build if they didn't care about the longevity of their tool? I'm sure this tool will last a long time, but not likely if it's actually used as a true impact driver for tough jobs
@@nobodycaresanymore188 Torque Test Channel already demonstrated the shoddy quality of it. It may make the power but the whole thing basically rattles itself apart.
@@Callelle6251 I forgot all about torque test channel, I usually watch project farms. He usually does a whole bunch of stuff outside of the torque for a more complete comparison. I figured it would likely rattle itself apart in due time. Heck most impacts outputting 500 ft-lbs of loosing torque are decently sized with square drives of 3/8 and higher. Highly unlikely a 1/4 hex drive throwing 500 ft-lbs of loosening torque is gonna survive long enough to consider it worthwhile
These tools are just like anything else you're going to have bad ones but I have never had any problems in my shop and I have 10 Guys using Hercules and they are holding. We also used Snap-on and Hilti and also Milwaukee. The thing is Hercules are holding up with top brands.
Damn maybe I'll have to pick one up
Maybe I'm not using it right but mine couldn't even take off a 80lb-ft axle nut...
Haven't noticed anyone mention:
How much torque is lost through that skinny adapter?
If this is hitting 500 on that little flex stick, what in the world will the impact wrench version score? 600?!?
Ah well, I couldn't wait a couple more years, got into DW 4 now.
Someone please do the anvil conversion and part numbers. 🙏
adapters are your limiting factor for most of these
I’m going to get this great review thanks.
Wuauuu so that means this 1/4 impact drill has same strength as the 3/8 impact wrench hercules in breakaway?
It claims to have more power than the Milwaukee gen 4 but the gen 4 broke 550 and this couldn’t 🤔
VERY IMPRESSIVE!!!
Looks a lot like the gen 4 milwaukee just blue lol
Looks like reskinned dewalt same as there rattle gun. Battery design and charger are very similar. Which leads to, do the batteries fit dewalt?
Wonder what it would do on a left hand thread fastener considering ttc showing power gains in forward.
Can you compare the internals of the new Hercules and the Milwaukee Gen 3?
What model number is it?
You didn't show auto mode like you said.
When you introduce a product can you say where to get it and how much it costs please
Do these have higher breakaway torque than tighten torque?
It's so difficult to decide which brand to buy. I'm in the market for my first set of battery power tools, but all brands just keep coming with better products. Any help is highly appreciated 🦓
It all depends on if you're a DYEr, professional, etc then what type of tools do you need for the specific job you're doing will depend what battery platform you need for those certain tools.
All the major brands are fairly decent in terms of basic functionality and reliability.
What matters to you, and how price sensitive are you? Do you mind multiple brands? Do you want smaller or larger tools, do you want nicer ergonomics or power?
@@gf2e I'd like to stick to one brand, to avoid multiple batteries. Most likely I'll be using them to work on my own cars, so not much abuse. I'm looking to get a ratchet, a driver like the one on this video and a mid torque. For what I've seen I'm leaning towards Dewalt, but not 100% sure yet.
@@rubenvor You don’t want to be like me and have five chargers bolted to your wall for your most common battery systems? :)
I like the compact Milwaukee M12 stuff, but the batteries in their handles means that they have very fat handles.
Kobalt, the Lowe’s store brand, has very cheap batteries.
Makita generally has good ergonomics and fit and finish. I think their ratchet wasn’t impressive - double check that if you decide to go that way.
I only have one DeWalt, an older NiCd vacuum. But I wouldn’t hesitate to get DeWalt if I saw what I wanted. I hunt for good sales :)
Ryobi is well built overall but their batteries are massive and poorly shaped. It has a big impact on some of their tools.
@@rubenvor Ryobi has served me well at home over the years. I don't think anyone has a wider lineup either. The odd battery design is the only downside but it doesn't matter if you are only using their tools.