Craftsman Bit Socket and External TORX Socket Set

It's always satisfying to find a tool set that meets your expectations both in terms of quality and value, and that's exactly what I experienced with the Craftsman Bit Socket and External TORX Socket Set, model CMMT99258. As someone who tackles both home improvement projects and automotive repairs, I need versatile and reliable tools, and this set has proven to be a solid addition to my toolbox.

Quality and Construction

The first thing that struck me about this Craftsman set is its robust build quality. Each socket is finished with a corrosion-resistant full polish chrome, which not only looks good but also holds up well against rust and wear. I appreciate this feature, especially considering how often my tools are exposed to various elements and conditions. The sockets feel solid and sturdy in hand, providing a reassuring heft that speaks to their durability.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of this set is the quick size identification. The large markings on each socket make it incredibly easy to grab the right size without squinting or guessing. This might seem like a minor detail, but it significantly speeds up my workflow, particularly when I'm in the middle of a project and need to switch sizes quickly.

Versatility

The set includes 25 pieces, covering a range of TORX sizes, which provides ample versatility for different applications. I've used this set for everything from routine car maintenance to more intricate DIY projects around the house. Whether it's removing door handles on a Dodge pickup or handling the bolts on a lawnmower, these sockets have performed admirably.

Performance Under Pressure

I was particularly impressed with how these sockets handled high-torque applications. Pairing them with my Kobalt 24-volt max 1/2-in cordless impact wrench, I found that they could withstand significant torque without any signs of wear or damage. This is crucial for me, as I often deal with stubborn, rusted bolts that require a lot of force to loosen. The sockets maintained their integrity and did not strip, which speaks volumes about their build quality.

Room for Improvement

While the set has many strengths, there are a few areas where it could improve. For one, the packaging and product description could be more detailed about the exact sizes included. It's frustrating to purchase a set without knowing if it will meet all your needs, and this lack of information might deter some potential buyers.

Additionally, the lifetime warranty, which is a hallmark of Craftsman tools, seems to have some limitations when it comes to individual socket replacements. It appears that some retailers, like Lowe’s, only honor the warranty if you return the entire set. This can be a hassle if you only need to replace a single socket and adds a layer of inconvenience to an otherwise excellent product.

Value for Money

Despite these minor issues, the set offers great value for the money. Compared to purchasing individual sockets, getting a complete set like this is much more cost-effective. Plus, the quality and durability you get from Craftsman justify the investment. Even though the tools are now made in China, the quality has not suffered, and the set has served my purposes well.

Conclusion

Overall, the Craftsman Bit Socket and External TORX Socket Set is a dependable and versatile addition to any tool collection. Its high-quality construction, ease of use, and performance under pressure make it a worthwhile investment for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. The set's few shortcomings, such as the lack of detailed size information and some warranty limitations, are minor in comparison to its numerous strengths.

Would I recommend this set? Absolutely. If you're looking for a reliable, durable, and versatile TORX socket set that offers good value for money, the Craftsman CMMT99258 is a fantastic choice. It has become an indispensable part of my toolkit, and I foresee it serving me well for many projects to come.