When it comes to Harbor Freight tools, people are usually divided. Some swear by the prices, while others avoid them like the plague. But the truth is, there are a handful of Harbor Freight tools that even the biggest haters would have to admit are worth having in the shop.

In this post, I’ll walk you through five Harbor Freight tools I think every woodworker should check out and also share three you’re better off skipping. These are based on my hands-on testing, long days in the shop, and my own mistakes so you don’t have to make them.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy through them—at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the tool deals coming, so thanks for your support! Prices are valid at the time of posting but are subject to change at any time.

Watch The Full Youtube Video Here: 5 Harbor Freight Tools Even The Hater's Will Love!

Why Dust Extractors Matter More Than Shop Vacs

Hercules Dust Extractor

👉 Check current price at Harbor Freight

If you’re sanding, routing, or running a track saw, you know that dust is your enemy. A shop vac works in a pinch, but a dust extractor gives you control over suction levels and keeps filters clear automatically.

The Hercules Dust Extractor from Harbor Freight has impressed me in several ways:

Variable suction control – dial it down for sanding to avoid swirl marks, crank it up for heavy-duty cuts.
Automatic filter cleaning – keeps suction strong without clogging.
Onboard power outlets – plug your sander in and the extractor kicks on automatically.
Big wheels and storage – rolls easier than my old DeWALT extractor and includes handy attachments.

At around $300, it’s a fraction of the cost of a Festool ($800+) and performs almost as well. The main drawback is the 3.5 amp power outlet limit, meaning it’s really best for sanders, not routers. Still, for the price, it’s hard to beat.

Budget-Friendly Parallel Clamps

Bremen Parallel Clamps

👉 Bremen Clamps at Harbor Freight
👉 Bessey Parallel Clamps on Amazon
👉 JET Parallel Clamps on Amazon

Every woodworker learns fast that you can never have enough clamps. Bremen’s parallel clamps are not as heavy-duty as JET or Bessey, but they cost half the price. For cutting boards, small glue-ups, or beginner projects, they’re a solid option.

Quick comparison:

Bremen – about $30
Bessey – about $50
JET – about $80

For beginners, Bremen clamps are a budget win. For pros doing heavy cabinetry, I’d lean Bessey or JET.

Must-Have Magnetic Accessories

👉 Harbor Freight Magnetic Trays

Magnetic trays and holders are one of those “why didn’t I buy these sooner” items. I keep them on my OmniWall and toolboxes to hold loose bits, screws, and bolts. Harbor Freight has them in multiple colors and sizes, and they work just as well as more expensive brands.

The magnetic paper towel holder is also a lifesaver. Simple, cheap, and always right where you need it.

Two Clamp Styles That Punch Above Their Price

60-inch Bar Clamps

👉 Harbor Freight Bar Clamp

I used these $20 aluminum bar clamps when I built a ton of flags years ago. They’re not top-of-the-line, but for large glue-ups, they work. Pro tip: you can reinforce the hollow backside with a strip of wood for extra rigidity.

Hand Screw Clamps

👉 Harbor Freight Hand Screw Clamp

At around $10 each, these are incredibly versatile. I use them for:

Holding small parts at the drill press
Creating a quick vertical vise
Stop blocks at the router table
Cabinet assembly supports

I recommend keeping at least four on hand. You’ll be surprised how often you reach for them.

Bauer Miter Gauge: Budget With Caveats

👉 Bauer Miter Gauge at Harbor Freight
👉 Vevor Miter Gauge (Amazon)
👉 Woodpeckers Premium Gauge

At $45, this new Harbor Freight miter gauge is a solid value for basic crosscuts. It has a 24-inch extension wing and all-metal construction.

Pros:

Affordable
Square and accurate when manually set
Great for hobbyists and budget setups

Cons:

Hard stops (detents) were slightly off in my testing
Not as refined as the Vevor or Woodpeckers versions

If you only need reliable 90° cuts, it’s worth a look. For frequent angle adjustments, I’d spend a little more.

3 Harbor Freight Tools to Avoid

Not everything in the store is a win. Here are three items I’d personally skip:

F-Style Bar Clamps – The bars bend too easily. Better to grab Irwin or Bessey.
Measuring Devices – I tested two rulers side by side and they were nearly 1/16" off at 36 inches. Instead, I recommend:
Hercules Sander – For $55, it underperforms. A Craftsman Sander or DeWALT will serve you way better.

Final Thoughts

Harbor Freight gets a bad rap, but some of their tools—like the Hercules Dust Extractor and Bremen clamps—are worth having in the shop. Others, well, you’re better off spending a little extra elsewhere.

The key is knowing what’s good, what’s “good enough,” and what’s a waste of money. Hopefully, this list saves you time, cash, and frustration in your own woodworking journey.

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