36 in metal brake

Has anyone bought or used the 36in metal brake from Harbor Freight?I know you have to be careful what you buy there.I would not be using it in my job just for my own projects,so it won't get used and abused constantly. Anyway they have a good price on it, is it worth it?
Bob

 

I think there have been other posts on it. Might search for more info.

I have the same or similar brake. Bought it at a local farm supply.

It will do for small items. Just don't get too ambitious with it.

 

Thanks CURIOUS RASH

 

I've got one and it works fine if you take your time. It takes longer to set up and clamp each bend than a higher priced break. I don't use it all that often so for me it was worth sacraficing a little time to save some cash.

 

Got mine 4+ years ago and it works great. Only used it on 18 and 20 gauge. I put large wheels and a bottom shelf on it and use it to cart my 2 mig welders [ 140 and 175 ]and to hang all my clamps. Space is tight in a 1 car garage. It was worth it for me.

 

yea same here I have one made a few adjustments and its fine..its not a box pan type just a simple brake and for the money I'm happy with it , its a little tough on the thick stuff but will do it .

 

This is one area where I think Harbor Freight almost OK. A hobbyist uses something like this only occasionally and with care an acceptable job is possible. Maybe a couple of guys going in together and you'd have a really reasonable investment.

Frank

 

Mine works fiine on 16, 18 and 20 ga. sheetmetal,,, even better on aluminum.

Good luck

Charles

 

I did everything in these pics (except the wheeltubs) using their combo brake/shear/roller and a lot of patience. It works fine as long as you don't abuse it...

 

Here's a thread I found a while back.

http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2048

You might want to search a little more as I know there were a couple of more threads about brakes on here.