Trying not to lose those little parts

[Larry in wyoming]

If I was a new mechanic just starting out, I'd load up on harbor freight tools and then replace anything that I used regularly or that failed me. For that rare occasion of using an 11/32 anything, harbor freight is just fine.

I'd replace with snap on or Mac or the like

 

[Archie]

I have one of the magnetic bowls for temporary place to put small parts.
For longer storage - and things like a failed empty case or a good example of a flattened primer - I use cleaned out prescription bottles. They have a cap and are reasonably see through to identify the contents. Works well for screws, sling swivels and small parts (can't get a rifle barrel in one, yet).
They don't stack as well as hexahedra but will stay on level surfaces.

 

[AlabamaRoscoe]

Here's a natural question: can you buy them at Harbor Freight?

Amazon has them.

https://www.amazon.com/VASTOOLS-Mag...g+magnet,+thickened+tray,automotive,51&sr=1-1

 

[tommy.duncan]

I agree that Harbour Freight is not the place I want to buy quality tools and equipment. Better idea on where to buy quality tools?

Harbor Freight works great though if you need a disposable tool where reliability isn't important.

I believe buy once, cry once.
I have been wrenching for over 30 years, i usually go to Snap-On first.
Someone might not have "Snap-On" money and Harbor Freight might have something close cheaper.

 

[Steel Horse Rider]

We have always called Harbor Freight "Snap Off Tools."

 

[SharpDog]

I use a pistol rug in a cookie baking tray.

 

[Riomouse911]

The main cause of lost parts, IMO, is that spring-loaded ones tend to fly across the room, never to be seen again. You can prevent this by doing your assembly/disassembly of small parts within a clear plastic bag. At least this will keep them from flying.

On Friday I lost the recoil spring cap for a stainless Kimber 1911 by skipping that step. Cost me 20 bucks for a factory replacement due to my impatience.


Lesson learned… again.

Stay safe.

 

[Riomouse911]

It was a joke. You know the joke about Dremels and amateur gunsmithing? Harbor Freight is in the same realm.

Harbor Freight works great though if you need a disposable tool where reliability isn't important.

Tarps, clamps, furniture rugs and dollies, orange safety vests… that’s about all I’ll buy there.

Stay safe.

 

[AzShooter1]

I use a magnetic dish to put all my parts in. Since doing it this way I haven't had any little parts fall off the bench into never never land.