I’ve built an entire woodworking and automotive shop with mostly their tools. I’ve replaced starters, AC compressor, steering racks, etc., and the only broken tools have been a drill and saber saw, both abused.
Agreed. Some HF stuff isn’t worth the money - you’re better off spending a little more and getting something that will get the job done without breaking and possibly injuring you. Some of their stuff however is perfectly suitable for casual use. I have a few things from HF, I’ve also got old school Craftsman stuff from my father and uncle. Heck, I’ve even broken a craftsman socket! Ok, I did have a breaker bar on it that lived up to its name...
I’ve had a fair amount of success with HF stuff.
One 10 dollar drill died out of the box.
HF has a definite place in tool purchases and the quality of their tools varies in the price you pay. There are many times when I had to do a job and it required a toll that I would normally never use again so I would hit HF for an inexpensive version and it always got me through.