Craftsman 4-1/2-in Electric Small Angle Grinder

Owning a quality angle grinder can make a significant difference in handling various tasks, from cutting metal to grinding rust off old equipment. My recent experience with the Craftsman 4-1/2-in Electric Small Angle Grinder, model CMEG100, has been a mixed bag of performance, efficiency, and durability.

The Craftsman grinder boasts a 6 Amp motor capable of delivering 12,000 RPM, which immediately caught my attention. On paper, this grinder seemed like a powerhouse. The promise of high performance for demanding applications was alluring, especially given its relatively modest price point. I was eager to see how it stacked up in real-world use.

Upon unboxing the tool, I noticed the thoughtful inclusion of a three-position handle designed to provide added control. This feature, along with the contoured over-molded handle, ensured a comfortable grip, which was particularly beneficial during prolonged use. The grinder also came with a tool-free guard, making adjustments quick and hassle-free, and a spindle lock feature that simplified wheel changes. These user-friendly attributes suggested that Craftsman had put some thought into the design.

My first test involved cutting through some metal pipes. Right from the start, I could feel the grinder's power as it effortlessly sliced through the metal. The 12,000 RPM motor certainly did not disappoint in terms of cutting speed. The three-position handle allowed me to maneuver the tool with precision, ensuring clean and accurate cuts. For these initial tasks, the grinder performed admirably, and I was quite impressed.

Next, I moved on to grinding tasks, including the removal of rust from an old garden gate and some welding repairs. The grinder maintained its performance, producing consistent results without bogging down. The tool-free guard proved to be effective, allowing me to make quick adjustments on the fly. The lightweight build of the grinder also minimized fatigue, enabling me to work longer without discomfort.

However, as I continued to use the grinder for more demanding tasks, some issues began to surface. One notable concern was the heat generated by the gearhead. After only a few minutes of continuous grinding, the gearhead became uncomfortably hot to the touch. This raised concerns about the tool's long-term durability and whether it could handle prolonged heavy use without overheating.

More troubling was an issue with the on/off switch. Initially, it seemed slightly finicky but still functional. However, after a few hours of use, the switch became unreliable and would only work intermittently. This was frustrating, as it disrupted my workflow and made using the grinder inconsistent at best. Eventually, the switch problem worsened to the point where the tool would only operate when held at a specific angle.

Despite these setbacks, the grinder had moments where it truly shined. For lighter tasks like sharpening lawn mower blades and cutting thin metal sheets, the grinder performed exceptionally well. It was easy to handle, and the motor provided plenty of power for these less demanding applications. For someone who doesn't require a grinder for extensive or heavy-duty use, the Craftsman CMEG100 could be a valuable addition to their toolkit.

Additionally, the tool’s compact and lightweight design made it convenient for use in tight spaces. The three-position handle was particularly useful when working at awkward angles, providing better control and reducing the risk of slipping. The spindle lock feature also made wheel changes straightforward, saving time during projects.

However, when pushed to its limits, the grinder revealed its shortcomings. During a particularly intensive rust removal session, the motor began to emit smoke and eventually seized up. This was a significant red flag, indicating that the tool might not be built to withstand rigorous use over extended periods. Given that one of its selling points is high performance, this was a disappointing revelation.

Another area of concern was the tool's durability over time. After several months of intermittent use, I noticed that one of the brushes had nearly worn out while the other remained relatively intact. This uneven wear suggested potential issues with the motor's internal components, further casting doubt on the grinder's long-term reliability.

In conclusion, the Craftsman 4-1/2-in Electric Small Angle Grinder, model CMEG100, is a tool with a lot of potential but notable limitations. It offers impressive power and performance for lighter, less demanding tasks, and its user-friendly features make it easy to handle and operate. The tool's compact and lightweight design, combined with the three-position handle and spindle lock, provide a comfortable and versatile user experience.

However, the grinder's tendency to overheat, combined with issues related to the on/off switch and overall durability, are significant drawbacks. For users who require a heavy-duty grinder for extensive use, these issues could lead to frustration and frequent tool replacements. For lighter, occasional use, the CMEG100 could be a cost-effective solution that delivers satisfactory performance.

Would I recommend the Craftsman CMEG100? It depends on your needs. If you're a hobbyist or a DIY enthusiast looking for an affordable tool for light to moderate use, this grinder could be a good fit. Its user-friendly features and reasonable price point make it an attractive option for non-professional use. However, for professionals or anyone requiring a grinder for heavy-duty applications, I would advise investing in a more robust and reliable option. The durability concerns and overheating issues make it less suitable for demanding tasks, where a more dependable tool is necessary.