torque wrench question

what is a good not to expensive torque wrench?

 

If you’re doing average garage mechanic type stuff like changing tires, removing bumpers and general maintenance a torque wrench from Harbor Freight in the USA or Princess Auto in Canada is more than good enough.

 

Only answer

 

It depends on how inexpensive you want to go and what poundage range you want. I have a 1/2" drive Snap On flex head that I got used for $200. It's accurate, very audible and doesn't need to be reset to zero every time I use it but the dial is hard to read without my spectacles. We just got a 1/2" drive Harbor Freight Icon for the shop and it seems pretty good so far. I also have a 1/4" drive Tekton that I got from Amazon that's good for the small stuff. I haven't had much luck with Pittsburgh or MasterForce.

 

Harbor freight. Pretty cheap and has done well for me with what little I use it for

 

cool cool I will check out Harbor Freight. I saw one at home depot a Tekton 1/2 inch drive for $57 dollar. Thank you all.

 

Hf out performed snapon.

 

I bought a half inch drive Husky from Home dump. Works pretty good for what I need it for. Then a 3/8 drive and 1/4 drive from HF. They work well enough for my use. If it was engine building I would definitely upgrade.

 

I’ve had snap on for years in various types( only click type, no digital), and my recently purchased Kobalt 1/2” drive is very ”similarish” and I’m happy. The Harbour freight definitely gets the job done as well. But outperforms snap on?? Said no experienced mechanic ever...

*rethinking my statement, depends on your useage. If you are purchasing for a lifetime look at Kobalt or preowned premium brands. If you just need to perform a certain amount of tasks to get the job done, and longevity isn’t a priority vs money, I agree with the comments on performance with the Harbor Freight.