Craftsman 22-Tine Wood Handle Lawn Rake

Craftsman's 22-Tine Wood Handle Lawn Rake, model CMXMLBA1200, is a tool that stands out in a crowded marketplace. I've had the opportunity to put this rake through its paces in my yard, and it delivered a performance that left me both impressed and occasionally frustrated.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things I noticed when unboxing the rake was its robust construction. The rake head is securely attached to a hardwood handle, promising durability. The spring-backed tines are designed to provide effective raking, and the cushioned end grip adds a layer of comfort that makes prolonged use less taxing on the hands. The rake is heavier than its plastic counterparts, but the weight distribution is well-balanced, which helps mitigate the heft during use.

However, the handle's material has been a point of contention. The product description claims it's made of hardwood, but my experience, coupled with a sniff test, suggested otherwise. The handle snapped during one of my raking sessions, and the distinctive pine scent from the broken ends confirmed my suspicion. True hardwood generally has a minimal odor, and this discrepancy was disappointing.

Performance

The rake excels in its primary function—raking. The flexible steel tines are adept at pulling thatch and other debris from lawns. I found it particularly effective in grabbing leaves in one swoop, making yard cleanup quicker and more efficient. The tines are closely spaced, which allows for thorough raking without leaving behind debris. This tool also doubles as an excellent aerator, lightly scratching the grass surface to promote new growth.

Despite its effectiveness, the rake's handle issue cannot be ignored. The handle broke under what I considered normal use. While I could transfer the rake head to another handle, this workaround shouldn't be necessary for a tool bearing the Craftsman name and a 15-year warranty.

Comfort and Usability

The cushioned end grip is a thoughtful addition that significantly enhances comfort. Raking can be a strenuous activity, and the padded grip helps reduce hand fatigue. The rake's weight, although initially a concern, proved to be less of an issue due to its balanced design. However, if you're used to lighter, plastic rakes, the initial adjustment period might be a bit challenging.

The rake's length also deserves mention. The extra-long handle provides greater reach, which is a boon for covering larger areas without excessive bending or stretching. This ergonomic consideration makes the rake more user-friendly and efficient.

Durability and Warranty

Durability is a mixed bag with this rake. The tines and rake head are built to last, showing no signs of wear even after extensive use. However, the handle's propensity to break undermines the overall durability. The 15-year limited warranty is a reassuring feature, but my experience with customer service left much to be desired. Attempts to get a warranty replacement met with a frustrating runaround, which is disheartening for a brand like Craftsman.

Value for Money

Despite its flaws, the rake offers good value for money. It costs a bit more than the cheapest options available but delivers superior performance and build quality—at least in the rake head and tines. If Craftsman can address the handle issue, this rake would be a top-tier choice for anyone looking to invest in a reliable lawn care tool.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Craftsman 22-Tine Wood Handle Lawn Rake has a lot going for it. Its performance, comfort, and thoughtful design features make it a strong contender in the lawn rake market. However, the handle's questionable durability and the less-than-stellar customer service experience are significant drawbacks.

Would I recommend this rake? Yes, but with reservations. If you're willing to potentially replace the handle or if you're handy enough to swap it out yourself, this rake is an excellent tool for maintaining your lawn. Its performance and comfort features are top-notch, but the handle issue is a glaring flaw that Craftsman needs to address to make this tool truly exceptional.

In summary, the Craftsman 22-Tine Lawn Rake is a solid choice for those who value performance and comfort in their lawn care tools. Just be prepared for the possibility of needing to reinforce or replace the handle to get the most out of this otherwise excellent rake.