Generators are a big-ticket item in a world with an increasing need for self-sufficiency. Harbor Freight produces a very popular line of various models under the name Predator Generators.
Harbor Freight was founded in 1977 by Eric Smidt in North Hollywood, California. Beginning as a small mail-order tool company, they’ve expanded to become “America’s #1 Tool Store.”
There are over 1,500 locations across the US, and the store stocks all manner of tools, including outdoor power equipment, welding supplies, hand tools, and more. Among its over 7,500 tools is the Predator line, which includes pressure washers, pumps, garden supplies, and generators.
The Harbor Freight website has 27 Predator Generator products to choose from. The power ranges from under 3,000 Watts to over 8,000 Watts for various uses, including home, recreational vehicles, outdoor rec, and job sites.
It isn’t very common for power tools to be manufactured in the US. But considering Harbor Freight’s history as America’s #1 Tool Store and its small selection of Predator Generators, we decided to investigate.
Verdict: Are Predator Generators Made in the USA?
No, Predator Generators are not made in the USA. They are manufactured overseas in China and then imported to the United States.
As a brand owned by Harbor Freight, Predator Generator is a brand with little information beyond pure retail stats. There is no brand background, standalone website, or informative leads. Even on the Harbor Freight website, the Predator section is simply a consumer interface.
With no help from the Harbor Freight website, we broadened our scope. But after hitting nothing but dead ends across the whole of the internet, we decided to turn right back to the source. If you want to let the cat out of the bag, you need to talk to the guy holding the bag. So, we gave Harbor Freight a call.
Here is the transcript:
AA: Hello, I’d like some more information on the Predator Generators.
HF: Totally, what questions do you have?
AA: Is Predator Generator its own brand, or is it under Harbor Freight?
HF: Technically, Predator Generators is a brand made by Harbor Freight.
AA: Where are the generators manufactured?
HF: They’re made in China.
AA: Are they assembled in the US?
HF: No, they’re made, put together, and boxed up in China. Then when they get here we have our quality assurance teams assess them.
Although no manufacturing information is available online, customer service knew the answer immediately: Predator Generators are made in China.
The Predator Generator product line is available on the Harbor Freight website, but you won’t find any information on the country of origin. Although they are known for being versatile and reliable, they are also very affordable. Harbor Freight refers to its Predator line as the “Best Value in Power.” The affordability is likely due to their overseas manufacturing. It’s a bittersweet reality.
In conclusion, all Predator Generators are made in China from start to finish. The only part of the process that happens here in the US is quality assurance.
Popular American Made Predator Generators
- None
Popular Predator Generators Not Made in the USA
- 13,000 Watt Tri-Fuel Portable Generator with Remote Start and CO SECURE technology
- 3,500 Watt SUPER QUIET Inverter Generator with CO SECURE Technology
- 4375 Watt Gas-Powered Portable Generator with CO SECURE Technology
