Before we dig into the details, let‘s jump right to the main question – Hart tools are made for Walmart by Techtronic Industries (TTI).
TTI is a major power tool manufacturer based in Hong Kong that produces tools for brands like Milwaukee, Ryobi, Hoover and more. They partnered with Walmart in 2016 to produce an exclusive line of Hart tools.
Now that we have the simple answer out of the way, let‘s explore the Hart brand more in depth. In this guide, I’ll uncover everything you need to know about these new tools popping up on Walmart shelves:
- Where Hart tools are made
- The history behind the Hart brand
- How Hart quality compares to other brands
- What specific tools Hart offers
- And are Hart tools a good choice for your needs?
Plenty of details and insights ahead!
A Little Background First: Who is Techtronic Industries (TTI)?
As mentioned above, the company that produces Hart tools for Walmart is Techtronic Industries or TTI. They are likely one of the biggest tool brands you‘ve never heard of.
TTI is a Hong Kong-based Fortune Global 500 company founded in 1985. They design, manufacture, and market a wide range of power tools and accessories globally.
Some of the other big tool brands made by TTI include:
- Milwaukee
- Ryobi
- AEG
- Hoover
- Dirt Devil
- Oreck
- Vax
So while you may not know TTI itself, chances are you‘ve used their tools before. The company produces over 300 million power tools each year across their various brands.
According to their 2021 annual report, TTI achieved revenues over US$12 billion with profits of US$1.1 billion. Power tools make up 68% of their total sales.
The point is, TTI is a powerhouse producer of power tools! They have the manufacturing capabilities and expertise to create quality tools at mass market prices for brands like Hart.
Where Does TTI Make Hart Tools?
TTI manufactures Hart tools primarily at their facilities in China and Vietnam. They also have some operations in the USA, Mexico and Europe.
The company is headquartered in Hong Kong where they conduct design, engineering, and testing. But the vast majority of production takes place at their factories in Asia.
However, some assembly or processing of parts may take place at TTI‘s US facilities. So you may occasionally spot labels like “Assembled in the USA”. But actual manufacturing remains overseas.
Now you might think all tools made in China are low quality. But keep in mind that TTI operates state-of-the-art manufacturing plants with advanced technology and processes. In fact, they‘ve received awards recognizing them as one of the best manufacturers in China.
So despite being made in China, Hart tools are produced in modern factories capable of precision and quality output thanks to TTI‘s expertise and technical know-how.
A Quick History of Hart Tools
The Hart brand itself originated right here in the good old USA.
- 1983 – Founded in California and originally specialized in hammers
- 1990s – Expanded into full line of hand tools and power tools
- 2004 – Acquired by the IGS Technologies tool company
- 2007 – Techtronic Industries buys IGS and acquires the Hart brand
- 2016 – TTI partners with Walmart to launch Hart tools nationwide
Hart built its reputation in the 80s and 90s as an innovative American tool company. Their unique hammer designs and technologies earned the respect of professional builders and tradesworkers.
So while Hart tools today are manufactured overseas, they carry on the heritage of clever and capable tool designs born in the USA.
An interesting note – over 25 Hart hand tools still say “Made in USA” right on the package. These include popular hammers, levels, and specialty hand tools.
So some flagship Hart products continue to be fully designed AND made in America, even though most of the lineup is produced abroad.
How Do Hart Tools Stack Up to Other Brands?
The most common question about Hart tools is how they compare to big names like DeWalt, Milwaukee, Craftsman, Husky, and Ryobi.
Well here’s an overview based on hands-on testing and reviews from experienced tool users:
Overall Quality: Very good for the price – better than expected for a Walmart-exclusive value brand. Comparable to Craftsman or Husky tools.
Power Tools: Nearly equal performance to Porter Cable or Ryobi. Great for home use but can‘t match pro brands for heavy duty work.
Hand Tools: Good quality for daily household jobs. Trail top brands for precision or durability under frequent heavy use.
Lawn Equipment: Capable mowers, trimmers and outdoor tools for average homeowner needs. Not built for landscaping pro use.
Tool Storage: Hart boxes offer thick durable construction with smooth sliding drawers. Excellent quality for the low Walmart price.
So while Hart tools may not win any awards for top of the line performance, they provide impressive quality considering the budget pricing.
For perspective, here’s how Hart tools and a few competitors compare on price for similar products:
| Tool | Hart Price | Competitor Price |
|---|---|---|
| Cordless Drill Kit | $49 | Ryobi – $99 |
| Mechanics Tool Set | $24 | Craftsman – $39 |
| Tool Chest | $124 | Husky – $199 |
| Self-Propelled Mower | $247 | Troy-Bilt – $399 |
As you can see, Hart tools are priced much lower than big names, even though the performance differences are quite small.
This makes them a great value for DIYers who don‘t need professional-grade tools but want good quality without breaking the bank.
Where Can You Buy Hart Tools?
Walmart holds an exclusive deal with TTI to be the only national retailer for Hart branded tools. So Walmart is the one and only place you can buy Hart tools across the entire country.
However, Hart tools are also available through some independent hardware stores and tool distributors in certain regions. But availability is very limited.
If you want the full Hart lineup, your go-to source is any Walmart nationwide:
- Shop in-store at over 4,000 Walmart locations
- Browse and order online at Walmart.com
- Use free 2-day shipping on most online orders
One tip if buying online – check inventory at your local store first. This ensures quick pickup and avoids any shipping delays.
To find your nearest Walmart carrying Hart tools, use the store finder at HartTools.com. Then you can swing by and get your hands on the Hart products you need.
Just How Affordable Are Hart Tools Priced?
Here’s a look at typical pricing for some of the most popular Hart tools:
| Tool Category | Sample Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Hand Tools | 25 ft tape measure | $8.88 |
| Power Tools | Cordless drill kit | $49 |
| Lawn Equipment | Self-propelled mower | $247 |
| Storage | 6-drawer tool chest | $124 |
| Accessories | LED worklight | $18 |
As you can see, Hart provides incredible value across all categories. Their prices run 20-50% lower than comparable products from other brands.
You can outfit your entire workshop with quality Hart tools without blowing your budget. This makes them perfect for casual DIYers or anyone wanting to save money.
And the low prices don‘t mean the tools are cheap or poorly made. The performance and durability still meet or exceed expectations for affordable homeowner brands.
An Overview of the Hart Tool Lineup at Walmart
Since first appearing at Walmart in 2016, Hart has expanded into a full range of tools covering all categories. No matter what projects you’re working on, Hart has you covered with all the toolbox essentials.
Here’s a quick overview of the major product segments available:
Hand Tools
Hart hand tools include all the staples – wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, sockets, hammers, measuring tapes, utility knives, and everything else you need for common jobs. They also offer specialty automotive, electrical, plumbing, and carpentry hand tools.
You can grab individual tools for a few bucks, or shop larger mechanic’s tool sets with up to 300 pieces for $100-150.
Power Tools
The power tool lineup has every basic type – drills, impact drivers, circular saws, jig saws, reciprocating saws, sanders, planers, routers, and more.
Cordless models run on Hart’s 20V or 40V lithium-ion batteries. Battery kits, chargers, and corded tools are available as well. Prices range from $20 for simple corded tools up to $200 for premium cordless combo kits.
Lawn Equipment
For your outdoor yardwork, Hart covers all the essentials including hoses, rakes, shears, loppers, and even pressure washers.
Plus they make push and self-propelled gas and battery-powered lawn mowers starting around $150. Cordless outdoor tools like chainsaws, trimmers, blowers and more run on Hart’s 40V battery platform.
Storage and Organization
To organize all your tools and gear, Hart has workbenches, chests, cabinets, carts, and professional-grade toolboxes. You’ll also find smaller organizers, parts storage cases, utility buckets, totes, and tool pouches.
They offer metal and plastic toolboxes in a wide range of sizes, configurations, and price points from $25 up to $250 for large rolling chests.
Workwear and Accessories
Rounding out the lineup is a range of support accessories like tape measures, clamps, levels, gadgets, protective gear, and work apparel.
You’ll find essentials like safety goggles, ear protection, knee pads, gloves, tool belts, coveralls, shop lights, and more basic gear for safe and productive DIY projects.
Recommended Hart Tools For New DIYers
If you’re outfitting your first toolbox, here are some of the standout Hart tools to consider based on top ratings and reviews:
Hand Tools
- 25 ft Magnetic-End Tape Measure – Just $9 for a must-have basic
- Rip Claw 16 oz Fiberglass Hammer – $7 with premium handle
- 100-piece Mechanics Tool Set – $25 for all the home repair basics
Power Tools
- 20V 1/2" Drill/Driver Kit – A versatile starter combo for $49
- 40V Brushless String Trimmer – Serious cutting power for $99
- 20V Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit – Just $69 for this handy oscillating saw
Lawn Equipment
- 21” Self-Propelled 40V Mower – A budget-friendly cordless mower for $247
- 40V 16” Chainsaw – Makes quick work of pruning and cutting for $119
- 14’ Telescoping Tree Pruner – Extends to 14 feet and just $47
Storage & Accessories
- 30" Wide 6-Drawer Roller Cabinet – Smooth and sturdy with ball bearing drawers for $124
- 500 Lumen LED Shop Light – Lights up your workspace for just $18
- 39-Pocket Nail and Tool Apron – Heavy-duty apron with padded belt for $16
This list gives you a sampling of the most useful and affordable Hart tools rated highly by everyday DIY warriors like you. All provide fantastic value without breaking your wallet.
The Bottom Line: Are Hart Tools a Good Brand for Home DIY Use?
In their short time at Walmart, Hart tools have earned impressive reviews and ratings for delivering quality performance and durability at almost unbeatably low prices.
While pro builders and contractors may prefer premium brands, Hart is totally suitable for casual DIYers doing basic projects and repairs around the home.
They offer similar capabilities to budget-friendly brands like Ryobi, Husky, or Craftsman – more than enough for minor tasks and routine home maintenance.
Given the prices 20-50% cheaper than big names, Hart tools are a fabulous value for penny-pinching homeowners.
You really can‘t find better performing tools for the money. And Walmart‘s satisfaction guarantee has you covered if anything doesn‘t meet expectations.
For outfitting a basic DIY toolkit without crushing your bank account, Hart is hands-down one of the best brands available today. The performance, features, and quality at these prices are impossible to beat.
So next time you swing by Walmart or browse their website, check out the Hart toolbox essentials for your next project. I think you’ll be as impressed by the quality and value as I am!
