Hercules tools are made for Harbor Freight by various contract manufacturers, primarily located in China.
The brand is positioned as Harbor Freight’s top tier professional line, sitting above the budget focused Bauer and Warrior brands.
Harbor Freight Tools is a privately held American retailer that designs its house brands and sources production from overseas factories rather than manufacturing tools itself.
Knowing who makes Hercules tools helps buyers understand how the brand can offer pro grade features at a lower price than established names.
This article covers Hercules ownership, where the tools are manufactured, how the brand compares to Harbor Freight’s other lines, and answers to common Hercules questions.
So let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Who Makes Hercules Tools And Who Owns The Brand?
Hercules Tools is a house brand exclusively owned by Harbor Freight Tools.
Harbor Freight does not manufacture its own tools and instead contracts with third party factories to build products under its various brand names.
The Hercules name was introduced in 2017 and relaunched in 2022 with brushless motors and an expanded five year warranty.
Where Are Hercules Tools Manufactured?
Most Hercules tools are manufactured overseas, with the majority of production based in China.
Harbor Freight has not publicly disclosed the exact factories behind Hercules, and the supplier relationships can shift between product categories and over time.
Some enthusiasts have noted similarities between certain Hercules tools and products from established brands like TTI, though this has not been officially confirmed.
What Products Does The Hercules Lineup Include?
Hercules covers cordless drills, impact drivers, saws, sanders, and grinders across more than 390 individual products.
The lineup includes both corded and cordless tools, along with vacuum pumps and specialty accessories aimed at serious DIYers.
Hercules power tools are covered by a five year warranty, longer than most other Harbor Freight brands.
How Does Hercules Compare To Harbor Freight’s Other Brands?
Harbor Freight sells several house brands at different price and quality tiers, including Bauer, Warrior, Icon, and Pittsburgh.
Hercules sits above Bauer as the company’s professional grade power tool line, while Icon and Pittsburgh focus more on hand tools.
This tiered brand structure lets Harbor Freight compete across multiple price points under one retail roof.
Hercules vs DeWalt: Which Tool Brand Should You Buy?
DeWalt is manufactured by Stanley Black and Decker and carries a much longer track record among professional tradespeople.
Hercules tools are often compared favorably to DeWalt on a spec for spec basis while typically costing less.
Hercules currently offers a narrower lineup than DeWalt, with basic drills, impact drivers, and grinders making up the core of the range.
For more Harbor Freight brands, see our guides to who makes Bauer tools and who makes Metabo tools for two other popular options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hercules Tools
Who makes Hercules tools?
Hercules tools are made exclusively for Harbor Freight by contract manufacturers based primarily in China.
Is Hercules a Harbor Freight brand?
Yes, Hercules is Harbor Freight’s professional grade house brand, positioned above Bauer and Warrior.
Are Hercules tools any good?
Hercules tools are generally well reviewed, with users often comparing performance favorably to established brands like DeWalt and Stanley.
Where can I buy Hercules tools?
Hercules tools are sold exclusively at Harbor Freight stores and on the Harbor Freight website.
I am Jack Neel, a mechanical engineer, researcher, and writer. I created this website to share my knowledge about different brands and products with you. I research the manufacturers behind the brands and provide you with the information you need to make smart buying decisions.