Merry Tools HS175C Strips Under Torque — Why Avoid

Data basis: This report used dozens of written reviews and several video demonstrations collected between Jan 2015–Jan 2026. Most feedback came from written reviews, supported by video demos. The distribution shows more weight on hands-on buyer reports than brand statements.

Comparative risk snapshot

Outcome	HS175C (this product)	Typical mid-range tool
Durability	Higher failure under repeated torque; wear reported sooner than peers.	Expected lifespan for occasional-to-regular use without premature stripping.
Compatibility	Fit issues with some standard couplings and adapters.	Broader fit across common coupling sizes out of the box.
Ergonomics	Poor grip and limited leverage for long jobs.	Better leverage and grip design for extended use.
Setup time	Extra steps due to adapters or careful alignment.	Quicker setup with fewer hidden requirements.
Regret trigger	Premature stripping after repeated heavy use—more disruptive than expected.	Normal wear that rarely disables the tool early.

Top failures

Is the tool going to strip or break after a few jobs?

Regret moment: Many buyers report the tool failing when they applied heavy torque during repeated tasks.

Pattern: This is among the most common complaints and appears repeatedly in long-use reports.

Context: Failures show up after repeated use or long sessions and worsen with higher torque demands, not on single light jobs.

Why worse: Compared to a reasonable mid-range tool, this one shows premature wear that forces repair or replacement sooner than expected.

Will it fit the couplings I already have?

• Fit mismatch: Buyers commonly report the tool doesn't seat cleanly on some standard couplings.
• Secondary pattern: This is a secondary issue but appears across multiple feedback sources.
• When it happens: Problems appear at first setup when testing fit, and after a few uses if small tolerances wear faster.
• Category contrast: Typical mid-range tools fit a broader set of couplings without adapters.

Do I need extra adapters or special parts?

• Hidden requirement: Several reports show buyers needed an adapter or specific socket to get a secure fit.
• Frequency: This is a persistent pattern for users with non-standard fittings.
• Early sign: Loose engagement or rocking when first clamped signals the need for extra parts.
• Impact: Adds extra steps, cost, and time to the job before the tool can be used safely.
• Fix attempts: Buyers tried washers, adapters, or tighter clamps to compensate with mixed success.
• Why worse: Most mid-range alternatives arrive ready for common couplings without extra parts.

Will it feel comfortable for longer use?

• Poor grip: Many users report a slippery or narrow handle that makes long tasks tiring.
• Secondary issue: This appears less frequently than stripping but is more annoying during long sessions.
• When it matters: Problems surface during extended use or when extra leverage is needed.
• Cause: Limited leverage geometry forces more wrist strain than expected.
• Impact: Slower work, higher fatigue, and increased chance of sloppy engagement.
• Attempts: Buyers used grips or gloves to mitigate but still reported reduced control.
• Category contrast: Competing mid-range tools offer larger handles or textured grips for long tasks.

Illustrative excerpts (not real quotes)

Excerpt: "Tool began slipping after three similar coupling jobs, stopped working." — primary.

Excerpt: "Needed adapter to make it sit flush on my fittings." — secondary.

Excerpt: "Handle felt thin and my hand cramped on the second job." — secondary.

Excerpt: "Worked fine once, then showed signs of wear quickly." — primary.

Who should avoid this

• Heavy users who apply high torque often should avoid it because premature stripping is a primary failure.
• Professionals needing broad compatibility should avoid it due to the hidden adapter requirement.
• Long-shift workers who need comfortable grips should avoid it because ergonomics are below category norms.

Who this is actually good for

• Occasional DIYers who use it for light single jobs can accept the durability risk if cost matters more than lifespan.
• Owners with matching fittings that seat perfectly can tolerate compatibility limits and avoid adapters.
• Short-task users who do quick fixes will tolerate the grip issue because sessions are brief.

Expectation vs reality

Expectation: A mid-range coupling tool lasts many months under regular use.

Reality: This product shows premature wear after repeated heavy tasks and requires earlier replacement.

Expectation: Tools in this class fit common couplings without extras.

Reality: You may need an adapter or extra fitting steps before first use.

Safer alternatives

• Choose reinforced models with explicit heavy-torque ratings to neutralize the stripping risk.
• Pick broad-fit products that list compatibility ranges to avoid hidden adapter needs.
• Prioritize ergonomics with textured, larger handles to reduce fatigue on long jobs.

The bottom line

Main regret: The leading trigger is premature stripping under repeated torque, which causes early replacement.

Why it matters: That failure appears more often than expected for the category and adds unplanned time and cost.

Verdict: Avoid this tool if you need heavy-duty reliability or broad compatibility; it may suit light, occasional tasks only.