A lot of American companies are squandering their name and reputation. For those owned by Blackrock, etc. private investment firms, they are looting the enterprise and will sell the husk when they are done. If I am going to use a Chinese Tool, I will buy it at a Chinese Store at a Chinese price. My impression is that Sears is offering Chinese tools at American prices.
Regarding Harbor Freight, which I have always known as a Chinese import house, you also have a buyer beware. The 'comparison price' in the litigation is the issue. It's like shopping at Kohl's - who pays full price for anything there? Their profit model is built on the minimum price. There will almost always be a coupon for what you want to buy, you just have to wait for it, or use the 20% off coupon. Sign up for their customer alerts (which is how you got the litigation notice), or cut one out of the newspaper or car magazine. And don't impulse-buy anything but what you came for. That's how the supermarkets, Kohl's and HF squeeze the best profit.
I have broken three HF tools in 20 years. I agree that their quality has vastly improved over the years, so I am not worried about my safety using them, but I do agree that their battery tools are crap. I am using their 20-ton shop press, engine hoist, wheel ramps and engine stands with no issues.