Craftsman Brushless String Trimmer & Blower Combo Kit

As someone who spends a significant amount of time maintaining my yard, I was eager to try out the Craftsman Brushless String Trimmer & Blower Combo Kit (model CMCK497P1). This cordless combo promises to bring the convenience of battery power to trimming and blowing tasks, while boasting features like a brushless motor for increased runtime and performance, and a lightweight, compact design for easier maneuverability. Here’s my detailed take on how this combo kit performs in real-world conditions.

Unboxing and First Impressions

Unpacking the Craftsman combo kit was straightforward, and assembly was relatively easy. The trimmer and blower both feel solid, yet lightweight enough to suggest comfortable prolonged use. The kit includes a single 5.0 Ah 20V MAX Lithium-Ion battery, which is compatible with other Craftsman V20 tools, and a charger. One thing to note is that the package I received was missing a bolt for the trimmer's handle, but I had a suitable replacement in my garage.

Trimmer Performance

The string trimmer in this combo kit is equipped with a brushless motor, which is designed to offer better performance and longer runtime compared to brushed motors. The trimmer head features a single line, which initially raised some concerns since dual-line trimmers are generally more efficient. However, after using it, I found that the single line was sufficient for my needs, particularly in a small to medium-sized yard.

The trimmer's adjustable swath size is a handy feature, allowing for quick adjustments depending on the task at hand. For light trimming around flower beds and fences, the smaller swath size worked well, while the larger setting was better suited for tackling thicker growth. The auto-feed feature for the string generally worked as advertised, although there were a few instances where I had to manually pull out more line.

Blower Performance

The blower in this combo kit is where the Craftsman really shines. It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for quick cleanups. The blower has two speed settings, which help conserve battery life when full power isn't necessary. The boost button is a nice touch for those moments when you need an extra burst of airflow to move stubborn debris.

However, the blower's battery life does vary depending on usage. On the lower setting, I found the battery lasted long enough to handle my driveway and patio. On the higher setting or using the boost button frequently, the battery life was noticeably shorter. For extensive leaf blowing tasks, having a spare battery would be beneficial.

Battery Life and Charging

The 5.0 Ah battery included in the kit provides a decent runtime, but it’s worth noting that battery life can be a limiting factor, especially for larger yards. On a full charge, I was able to get about 50 minutes of combined use from the trimmer and blower. This was sufficient for my needs, but those with larger properties might find themselves needing an additional battery to complete all tasks in one go.

Charging the battery is straightforward but somewhat slow. It took around two hours to fully charge the battery, which could be a drawback if you don't have a spare on hand. For smaller yards or quick cleanups, this might not be an issue, but it’s something to consider for more extensive jobs.

Ergonomics and Design

One of the standout features of this combo kit is its ergonomic design. Both the trimmer and blower are lightweight, which reduces fatigue during extended use. The trimmer’s length is particularly noteworthy for taller users. At 6’5”, I often find myself hunched over with most trimmers, but the Craftsman offers ample length, allowing me to work comfortably without straining my back.

The weather-resistant design is another plus, providing some peace of mind when using the tools in less-than-ideal conditions. However, it's always good practice to store battery-powered tools in a dry place to prolong their lifespan.

Overall Performance and Value

The Craftsman Brushless String Trimmer & Blower Combo Kit offers good performance for the average homeowner. The brushless motor provides reliable power and the convenience of cordless operation makes yard work less of a chore. The trimmer and blower are both easy to use and maintain, making them suitable for those who prefer hassle-free garden tools.

However, there are a few caveats. The single battery included in the kit might not be enough for larger yards or more extensive tasks, and the relatively slow charging time can be a limitation. Additionally, while the trimmer's single-line design works well for light to medium tasks, it might not be sufficient for heavy-duty trimming.

Final Recommendation

Would I recommend the Craftsman Brushless String Trimmer & Blower Combo Kit? Yes, but with some reservations. For homeowners with small to medium-sized yards, this combo kit offers a convenient and efficient solution for regular yard maintenance. The lightweight design and ease of use make it accessible for users of all ages and physical conditions.

However, for those with larger properties or more demanding yard tasks, the limitations of battery life and charging time might be a significant drawback. In such cases, investing in an additional battery or considering more powerful, gas-powered alternatives might be a better option.

Overall, the Craftsman combo kit provides good value for its price, especially for those looking to simplify their yard maintenance routine without the hassle of gas-powered equipment.