Anyone ever tried those Hercules hooks? I’m tempted, but they look like something out of a late-night infomercial.
I get what you mean—they do have that “too good to be true” vibe. But I actually gave them a shot when I ran out of anchors, and they worked surprisingly well on drywall. Not sure I’d trust them for anything super heavy or in a high-traffic spot, but for framed art or mirrors, they’ve held up. Just don’t expect miracles on that orange peel texture (it’s the bane of my existence too). Nails are messy, but at least you know where you stand... or patch.
I’ve actually used Hercules hooks a few times when I was in a pinch, and I’ll admit, they surprised me. They’re not magic, but for lighter stuff—picture frames, small shelves—they do the job without tearing up the drywall. I wouldn’t hang anything valuable or super heavy on them, especially if you’re in an area that gets tremors. If you’re earthquake-proofing, I’d still anchor anything important into studs. But for quick fixes or rentals, they’re handy. Just don’t expect them to replace proper hardware for big jobs.
Totally get what you mean about Hercules hooks. I tried them in my old Victorian when I was desperate not to punch more holes in the original plaster. They’re decent for lightweight stuff, but yeah... wouldn’t trust them with my antique mirror or anything I actually care about. For earthquake zones, I’m all about screwing into studs—even if it means a few more patch jobs later. Still, for renters or quick fixes, they’re a lifesaver.
EARTHQUAKE-PROOFED MY FIRST BUILDING AND IT ACTUALLY WORKED
Hercules hooks are like the duct tape of wall hangers—good in a pinch, but I wouldn’t trust ‘em with anything that’s survived more than one generation. Had a client once who insisted on using them for a heavy framed map collection. Next minor tremor, half the “explorers” ended up face-down on the floor. Lesson learned: if it’s got sentimental or actual value, I’m hunting for a stud, even if it means patching up Swiss cheese walls later.
Funny thing is, I’ve seen folks try to get clever with toggle bolts and all sorts of “miracle” hangers, but nothing beats a good old screw into solid wood when the ground starts shaking. Curious—anyone ever tried those fancy earthquake picture hooks? The ones with the little safety latch? I’ve always wondered if they’re worth the hype or just another gadget collecting dust in the toolbox...
I’m totally with you—nothing beats a screw in a stud when it comes to earthquakes. Those “miracle” hooks always seem like a shortcut until gravity and a tremor team up. I’ve actually tried the earthquake picture hooks with the latch, and they’re not bad for lighter stuff. The little clip keeps frames from jumping off, but if it’s heavy or valuable, I still go for the stud. One tip: if you’re dealing with plaster walls, pre-drilling helps avoid cracks. Learned that one the hard way...
