Craftsman V-Series SAE Reversible Ratcheting Combination Wrench Set

When working on various projects, having a reliable set of tools can make all the difference. Over the past few months, I've had the opportunity to put the Craftsman V-Series SAE Reversible Ratcheting Combination Wrench Set (model CMMT87350V) through its paces. This set, with its blend of durability, precision, and ease of use, has proven to be a valuable addition to my toolkit.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this wrench set was its robust construction. Crafted from high-quality steel, the wrenches feel solid and durable in hand. The lightweight I-beam handle design is particularly noteworthy, as it provides excellent control without adding unnecessary heft. The wrenches are well-balanced, making them comfortable to use over extended periods.

One of the standout features is the 72-tooth design on the box end. This allows for a 5° arc swing, which is incredibly useful in tight spaces. Whether I was working under the hood of a car or in a cramped corner of my workshop, this feature allowed me to maneuver the wrenches with ease. The 12-point box end design also ensures quick engagement with fasteners, reducing the time spent fiddling to get the wrench in place.

Ease of Use

The reversible ratcheting mechanism is a game-changer. With a simple flip of a switch, I could easily change the direction of the ratchet, which saved a significant amount of time and hassle. This feature is particularly beneficial when working in confined spaces where traditional wrenches would require constant repositioning.

The 15° offset on the box end provides ample knuckle clearance, which is a small but significant detail. This design feature helps prevent scraped knuckles and allows for more efficient use of force. The low-profile design of the wrenches also means they can access fasteners in tight spots without causing damage.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Craftsman V-Series wrenches did not disappoint. They handled a variety of tasks with ease, from routine maintenance on my car to assembling furniture and equipment. The ratcheting mechanism was smooth and reliable, and I never encountered any slippage or issues with engagement.

One of the aspects I appreciated most was the consistency of the wrench sizes. The set includes eight pieces, covering the most common SAE sizes: 5/16 in., 3/8 in., 7/16 in., 1/2 in., 9/16 in., 5/8 in., 11/16 in., and 3/4 in. This range is sufficient for most of my needs, and having a complete set at my disposal made it easy to tackle any task without hunting for the right size.

Durability

Over the course of my usage, the wrenches have shown no signs of wear or degradation. The high-quality steel construction has held up well, even under heavy use. Craftsman’s lifetime warranty is a reassuring bonus, providing peace of mind that these tools are built to last. The fact that Craftsman stands behind their product with such a warranty speaks volumes about their confidence in its durability.

Areas for Improvement

While the overall performance and build quality of the wrenches are impressive, there are a few areas where I noticed room for improvement. The plastic holder that the wrenches come in, while useful for organization, is somewhat flimsy. Mine broke shortly after I removed it from the box. It's a minor annoyance, but something to be aware of if you plan to keep the wrenches organized in your toolbox.

Another point to consider is that this set is strictly SAE. For those who frequently work with metric fasteners, the absence of metric sizes might be a limitation. However, Craftsman does offer metric versions of their ratcheting wrenches, so this is not a deal-breaker.

Value for Money

Considering the quality and features of the Craftsman V-Series wrenches, they offer excellent value for money. The reversible ratcheting mechanism, combined with the durable construction and thoughtful design features, makes this set a worthwhile investment for both amateur and professional mechanics. Even though some may argue that Craftsman’s quality is not what it used to be, I found this set to meet my expectations and then some.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Craftsman V-Series SAE Reversible Ratcheting Combination Wrench Set is a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable and versatile set of wrenches. The combination of durability, ease of use, and thoughtful design features make it a standout option in its price range. While the plastic holder could be more robust and the set could benefit from including metric sizes, these are relatively minor issues in the grand scheme of things.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this wrench set to anyone looking for high-quality tools that can handle a variety of tasks with ease. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a professional mechanic, the Craftsman V-Series wrenches are likely to become a trusted part of your toolkit.