Craftsman 6-IN-1 SAE Nut Driver

The Craftsman 6-IN-1 SAE Nut Driver, model CMHT68020, has quickly proven itself to be a valuable addition to my toolkit. This compact and versatile tool is designed to handle a variety of socket sizes, making it an excellent choice for a range of tasks, from household repairs to more specialized applications.

One of the standout features of this nut driver is its hex bolster, which allows for increased leverage with a wrench. This is particularly useful when dealing with stubborn or tightly fastened nuts and bolts. The hex bolster provides the extra torque needed to loosen or tighten these fasteners without having to switch to a different tool, saving both time and effort.

The in-handle socket storage is another practical aspect of this tool. It houses three double-ended sockets, covering six different sizes (1/4", 5/16", 11/32", 3/8", 7/16", and 1/2"). This clever design ensures that I always have the right size on hand without having to carry multiple tools. The sockets fit snugly into the handle, and while it took me a moment to figure out the best way to arrange them all, once I got the hang of it, the storage system proved to be highly efficient.

Craftsman has also paid attention to the ergonomics of this nut driver. The handle features a heavy texture mid-zone for enhanced grip, which is particularly helpful when working in slippery or greasy conditions. The low texture base zones are designed for speed and precision, allowing for quick adjustments without losing control. This combination of grip textures makes the tool comfortable to use for extended periods, reducing hand fatigue.

The overall build quality of the nut driver is impressive. Made from durable steel, it feels solid and well-constructed, living up to the high standards one would expect from Craftsman tools. The tool's weight of 0.7 pounds strikes a good balance between being sturdy and not overly heavy, making it easy to maneuver and carry around in a tool bag.

During my use, the 6-IN-1 nut driver performed admirably in various scenarios. For instance, I used it to repair a household washer, which required the removal and replacement of numerous hex screws. The tool's versatility came in handy as it covered the different sizes needed for the task, streamlining the process significantly. Similarly, for HVAC maintenance on an air handler, the nut driver had the right sizes, making the job straightforward and efficient.

One minor drawback I encountered was the lack of ratcheting action. While this feature would have added to the tool's convenience, it also would have likely increased the cost. Given the tool's affordability and the range of sizes it covers, this is a trade-off I can accept. Moreover, the hex bolster for additional torque application somewhat compensates for the absence of a ratchet function.

Another point worth mentioning is the clarity of the product description. Initially, there was some confusion regarding whether the tool was metric or SAE, as the description wasn't entirely clear. However, once I confirmed that it indeed followed the SAE measurement standard, I found the tool to be exactly what I needed.

The Craftsman 6-IN-1 SAE Nut Driver also comes with a limited lifetime warranty, which is a testament to the manufacturer's confidence in the product's durability and performance. This warranty is reassuring, especially for those who rely heavily on their tools for professional or extensive DIY work.

In conclusion, I would highly recommend the Craftsman 6-IN-1 SAE Nut Driver to anyone in need of a versatile, reliable, and well-built tool. Its combination of practical features, solid construction, and ergonomic design make it an excellent choice for a wide range of applications. Whether you're a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, this nut driver is a valuable addition to any toolkit. The convenience of having multiple socket sizes in one compact tool, along with the added leverage provided by the hex bolster, makes it a standout performer in its category. Despite the minor issue with the initial metric/SAE confusion and the lack of a ratcheting function, the overall value and functionality of this tool far outweigh these concerns.