my research has led me to believe the hand crank on most models is flimsy at best, often breaking off or becoming hard to turn. How sturdy is this one
1562097
The crank action feels fairly rugged with the usual sounds while cranking. Cranking at 120 RPM yields a charging current of approximately 250mA, so if you were to actually try doing a full charge, it'd take at least two and a half hours of continuous cranking. That's why this is not something someone would do on a regular basis; it should be considered as a method for emergencies only, or if you just want to play with it for a while, or give it a quick top off charge. Charging from USB gives it about 150mA charging current, so it actually would take longer, but sitting four hours idly watching the red light turn green is a lot easier than cranking furiously for 2-1/2 hrs... ;) The crank action feels fairly rugged with the usual sounds while cranking. Cranking at 120 RPM yields a charging current of approximately 250mA, so if you were to actually try doing a full charge, it'd take at least two and a half hours of continuous cranking. That's why this is not something someone would do on a regular basis; it should be considered as a method for emergencies only, or if you just want to play with it for a while, or give it a quick top off charge. Charging from USB gives it about 150mA charging current, so it actually would take longer, but sitting four hours idly... » Read More The crank action feels fairly rugged with the usual sounds while cranking. Cranking at 120 RPM yields a charging current of approximately 250mA, so if you were to actually try doing a full charge, it'd take at least two and a half hours of continuous cranking. That's why this is not something someone would do on a regular basis; it should be considered as a method for emergencies only, or if you just want to play with it for a while, or give it a quick top off charge. Charging from USB gives it about 150mA charging current, so it actually would take longer, but sitting four hours idly watching the red light turn green is a lot easier than cranking furiously for 2-1/2 hrs... ;) « Show Less
1562098
The crank action feels fairly rugged with the usual sounds while cranking. Cranking at 120 RPM yields a charging current of approximately 250mA, so if you were to actually try doing a full charge, it'd take at least two and a half hours of continuous cranking. That's why this is not something someone would do on a regular basis; it should be considered as a method for emergencies only, or if you just want to play with it for a while, or give it a quick top off charge. Charging from USB gives it about 150mA charging current, so it actually would take longer, but sitting four hours idly watching the red light turn green is a lot easier than cranking furiously for 2-1/2 hrs... ;)
1998385
Seems fairly sturdy to me. I've only used the tippman 98 so not much comparison. I certainly was impressed by the build.
879917
The handle to the crank is hard black plastic, not of metal as shown in one of the pictures, if they changed is not what they are selling us. The twist-end for the clamp is metal. I dropped the handle many times and remains intact, it is of very good quality.
1562019
I hold it in my left hand and between my thighs, sitting at a breakfast bar, beans etc on the breakfast bar. So it really doesn't wobble but will react to the cranking motion and force. The more difficult part is holding the crank handle down to avoid wearing the handle-shaft hole. That appears to be the weaker point of the design.
120660
I am 66 years young and not overly strong and have no issues with using the hand crank. Can crank to the top of the lift in less than a minute.
628357
This model does not have a very strong motor. (Reason I sent it back.). If you press too hard it stops rotating.
2085674
I've actually had pretty good luck with mine. This is the second one I've owned. I ran the first one over while working on the truck so I can't say anything bad about it. I've owned the second one for two years now and get regular use out of it. Wheels are great and the tool holders are pretty nice as well. I wouldn't hesitate to buy the third after I run number two over!
2000073
I really like this machine, I have not seen the Hammer strength unit so I can't give you a comparison though I have had this for over a year and it is very strong great quality and solid so I can't imagine a way that it would malfunction or break.
1955585
I would suggest that you look at its weight, divided by two, and assess how much weight each of your hands can handle. They are well-designed and the action is easy. And of course keeping them well oiled will make them easier to operate. Best of luck!
46951
It has a hand crank and is very easy to operate. hope this answers your question.
2059279
I do say it is pretty sturdy. However is it the most sturdy thing out there? No. Mine kind of shakes and I have to tighten the screws every hear and there.
1472591
I have not looked as this one has held up just fine for me. I use it to haul sewing supplies and tools around so it does not have to be able to hold up with heavy loads. But it has got a good workout since I purchased it and it still has no issues.
1216795
I got it for my 4 year old grandson and he can use it easily. My daughter told me he was able to open the crank by himself and close it too. He loves it.
414747
It is a pretty tough pull by hand. I bought the cranking device and am very happy with it.
1349832
The handle requires some strength to attach to the actual mower (we needed two people to apply tension to attach it) and once in place, is very sturdy. It is not particularly flimsy at all, in my opinion.
1603533
It is well balanced and cranks easily. You tyrn it at one revolution per second, so it's a slow turn. I am 75 years old. If i can do it, anyone can.
1041144
The crank is made of plastic. I don't have the answer to your other questions.