Craftsman Hole Saw Kit

Craftsman's Hole Saw Kit, model CMAH1SET7, offers a promising array of bi-metal hole saws designed for cutting through wood and metal. The set includes seven pieces: 1-inch, 1 1/4-inch, 1 1/2-inch, 1 3/4-inch, 2-inch, and 2 1/2-inch hole saws, along with an arbor with a pilot bit and an adapter. At first glance, this kit appears comprehensive and versatile, catering to a wide range of common tasks. But, as with any tool, the devil is in the details.

Initial Impressions

Upon opening the package, the first thing I noticed was the absence of instructions. This might not be an issue for seasoned DIYers or professionals, but for someone new to using hole saws, it can be quite a hurdle. The kit's components are straightforward, but without guidance, assembling the parts can be confusing. Thankfully, there are plenty of YouTube tutorials available to fill in the gaps.

The bi-metal construction of the saws feels robust, and the variety of sizes included is a definite plus. However, I was immediately struck by the lack of a proper storage case. While the product description mentioned a storage case, what I found was a plastic shell that needed to be cut apart to access the tools. This is far from ideal for long-term storage and organization.

Assembly and Use

Once I figured out the assembly with the help of online videos, the smaller saws easily screwed onto the arbor. The larger saws required an adapter and washer, which was a bit more fiddly but manageable. Adjusting the drill bit to stick out approximately 1/4 inch from the saw was straightforward, thanks to the set screw on the arbor.

The real test came when I started using the hole saws. Cutting through wood was a breeze; the saws made clean, precise cuts without much effort. However, when I switched to metal, the performance was less impressive. The saws struggled with thin metal, and I had to apply more force than I was comfortable with. This raised concerns about the long-term durability of the saws.

Durability and Maintenance

One of the most significant issues I encountered was with the arbor getting stuck to the hole saws. After cutting a few holes, the arbor would seize up, making it nearly impossible to change to a different size without using a vise and wrench. This is not only inconvenient but also risks damaging the tool. Unfortunately, this wasn't a one-off issue; it happened consistently, which is a significant drawback.

Additionally, the threads on the arbor stripped easily, especially when using the larger saws. This compromised the entire kit's functionality, as a stripped arbor thread rendered the saws unusable. It's disappointing, considering Craftsman's reputation for quality tools.

Performance

Despite these issues, the hole saws did perform well in certain conditions. For wood and softer materials, the cuts were clean and accurate. The saws stayed sharp and didn't bind, even in thicker wood. However, the performance in metal cutting was underwhelming. The saws struggled and often overheated, which is not ideal for a tool marketed as being capable of cutting through metal.

Ease of Use

The lack of instructions aside, the hole saws are relatively easy to use once you get the hang of them. The blades screw on and off the drill bit without too much hassle, and the pilot bit helps guide the saw for accurate cuts. However, the difficulty in removing the arbor and the need for additional tools to separate the components adds unnecessary complexity to what should be a straightforward process.

Value for Money

At its price point, the Craftsman Hole Saw Kit offers a decent range of sizes and the promise of versatility. However, the recurring issues with the arbor, the lack of a proper storage case, and the struggles with metal cutting detract significantly from its value. For hobbyists or occasional users, this kit might suffice, but for more frequent use or professional applications, the frustrations may outweigh the benefits.

Final Thoughts

The Craftsman Hole Saw Kit has potential, but it falls short in several critical areas. The bi-metal construction and variety of sizes are commendable, but the execution leaves much to be desired. The arbor issues, lack of instructions, and misleading product description regarding the storage case are significant drawbacks.

Would I recommend this tool? For occasional, light-duty use, particularly in wood, it might be a cost-effective option. However, for anyone needing reliable performance in metal or frequent use, I would suggest looking elsewhere. Craftsman has a strong legacy, but this particular kit doesn't live up to the brand's reputation for quality and reliability. With some design improvements and better quality control, this could be a much more valuable addition to any toolbox.