Craftsman Cordless Narrow Crown Stapler

Handling a wide array of DIY projects and professional tasks becomes significantly easier with a reliable stapler in your toolkit. The Craftsman Cordless Narrow Crown Stapler (model number CMCN618NB) is one such tool that promises to bring convenience and efficiency to your stapling tasks. Let me share my experience with this versatile device and what it offers.

Initial Impressions and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the stapler impresses with its robust construction and ergonomic design. The contoured, over-molded handle immediately stands out, designed to reduce user fatigue during extended use. The tool's lightweight design, weighing in at 7 pounds, strikes a good balance between sturdiness and ease of handling. Although it might seem a bit bulky at first glance, the weight distribution feels well-balanced, making it manageable even for prolonged periods.

Performance and Usability

One of the standout features of this stapler is its cordless nature, powered by the V20 battery system. Not having to deal with cords or air hoses is a game-changer, especially when working in tight or remote areas. The freedom to move around without being tethered to a power source adds a level of convenience that’s hard to beat.

The motor in the Craftsman Cordless Narrow Crown Stapler delivers consistent power, allowing it to drive up to 425 staples per charge. This is particularly useful for larger projects where constant battery changes can become a hindrance. The battery life is commendable, and even after a full day’s work, it still had plenty of juice left. Charging time is reasonable, taking about four hours to reach full capacity.

Versatility and Adjustability

The tool-free stall release and depth adjustment features are highly practical. Adjusting the depth is straightforward, with a dial that clearly indicates the setting. This ensures that you can adapt the stapler to different materials and thicknesses without any hassle. I found this particularly useful when switching between tasks like attaching underlayment for flooring and securing hardware cloth to 2x4s.

However, it’s worth noting that while the stapler performs admirably with standard 3/4” to 1” narrow crown staples, it does struggle with 1-1/2” staples, especially in harder materials like pine 2x4s. It tends to jam frequently with these longer staples, requiring the battery to be removed and the jam lever to be engaged each time. This can be somewhat frustrating, especially if you’re working on a tight schedule.

LED Work Lights and Battery Indicator

The inclusion of multi-function LED work lights is a thoughtful addition. These lights enhance visibility in dimly lit work areas and also act as a battery status indicator. This ensures that you’re never caught off-guard by a dying battery in the middle of a project. The lights are bright enough to illuminate your work area without being overly harsh.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Using the stapler for extended periods is relatively comfortable thanks to its ergonomic handle. The contoured design fits well in the hand, and the over-molded grip reduces strain. Even after a full day of stapling, my hands and wrists didn’t feel overly fatigued. This is a significant advantage, especially for those who engage in lengthy projects.

Issues and Drawbacks

Despite its many strengths, the Craftsman Cordless Narrow Crown Stapler isn’t without its flaws. The issue of frequent jamming, particularly with longer staples, cannot be overlooked. While the tool-free stall release mechanism makes clearing jams relatively simple, the need to do so repeatedly can disrupt workflow and become quite frustrating.

Another point to consider is the tool’s size. While it is lightweight, its bulkiness can be a bit cumbersome in tight spaces. Additionally, the tool is somewhat slow to reset after firing a staple, which might be a minor inconvenience for those accustomed to faster-paced tools.

Conclusion and Recommendation

Overall, the Craftsman Cordless Narrow Crown Stapler offers a good mix of power, versatility, and user-friendly features. Its cordless design, long battery life, and ergonomic handle make it a valuable addition to any DIYer or professional’s toolkit. The tool-free depth adjustment and stall release features add to its ease of use, allowing for quick adjustments and maintenance.

However, the frequent jamming issue with longer staples and its slightly bulky design are areas where it falls short. If your projects primarily involve standard 3/4” to 1” staples and you value the convenience of a cordless tool, this stapler is a solid choice. Its performance with these staple sizes is reliable, and the freedom from cords is a significant advantage.

Given its strengths and minor drawbacks, I would recommend the Craftsman Cordless Narrow Crown Stapler for those looking for a versatile and convenient stapling solution, especially for lighter and medium-duty tasks. It may not be perfect for heavy-duty applications requiring longer staples, but for most home improvement projects and professional tasks, it delivers dependable performance.