Craftsman Cordless LED Hanging Worklight

There's a certain satisfaction that comes from working with tools that are both efficient and versatile, and the Craftsman Cordless LED Hanging Worklight (model CMCL050B) certainly fits the bill. As someone who spends a significant amount of time tinkering in the garage, working on various projects around the house, and occasionally venturing into the attic or under the hood of a car, I've had the chance to put this worklight through its paces. Here’s my detailed take on it.

Design and Build Quality

Right off the bat, the design of this worklight stands out. It has a sturdy feel without being overly heavy (weighing in at just 2 pounds), which makes it easy to carry around. Despite the lightweight, it doesn’t feel flimsy or cheap. The plastic body is robust enough to handle a few knocks and drops, which is inevitable in my line of work.

One of the standout features of this light is the 360° telescoping hang hook. This seemingly simple addition has proved invaluable. Whether I'm under the car or working in a dimly lit closet, the ability to hang the light securely and adjust its position just right has saved me a lot of hassle. The hook is made of sturdy metal, which adds to its durability and reliability.

Brightness and Adjustability

This worklight offers two brightness settings: 350 lumens and 700 lumens. The lower setting is perfect for tasks that require close-up work without too much glare, such as wiring or plumbing under a sink. The higher setting, on the other hand, illuminates a large area, making it ideal for broader tasks like working in the attic or even illuminating a room during a power outage.

The 0-140° pivoting head is another thoughtful inclusion. It allows for precise control over the direction of the light, which is incredibly useful when you’re working alone and need to ensure that the workspace is well lit. The three LED lights offer a broad and even spread of light, significantly reducing shadows and dark spots.

Battery Life

Given that the worklight is part of the Craftsman V20 ecosystem, it uses a 20V MAX Lithium-Ion battery. While the battery is not included, I’ve found that using the same battery I use for my other Craftsman tools works seamlessly. On a full charge, the battery life is impressive. On the lower brightness setting, I’ve managed to get through several days of intermittent use without needing to recharge. Even on the higher setting, it provides ample runtime for extended projects.

Practical Applications

The versatility of this worklight has genuinely impressed me. It has seamlessly integrated into various aspects of my daily tasks:

• Automotive Work: When working on car engines, the high brightness and flexible mounting options make this light indispensable. I can hang it from the hood and adjust the angle to ensure every nook and cranny is visible.
• Home Improvement: Whether I’m painting, installing cabinets, or doing electrical work, the adjustable brightness and pivoting head allow me to position the light perfectly to avoid shadows and enhance visibility.
• Outdoor Use: This worklight has also proven to be a great companion during evening barbecues and camping trips. Its portability and the fact that it doesn’t require an extension cord make it a convenient source of light wherever I need it.

User Experience

Using the Craftsman worklight has been a largely positive experience. The ergonomic design makes it easy to handle, and the controls are intuitive. Switching between brightness settings is straightforward, and the light remains cool to the touch even after prolonged use, which is a significant plus.

One minor gripe is the lack of a magnetic base, which would have provided even more mounting options in metal-enclosed spaces. However, the sturdy hook compensates for this to a large extent.

Durability and Warranty

Having used this light for several months, I can vouch for its durability. It has endured drops, dust, and occasional exposure to moisture without any hiccups. Craftsman’s three-year limited warranty also provides peace of mind, knowing that in the unlikely event of a malfunction, the tool is covered.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Craftsman Cordless LED Hanging Worklight is an exceptional addition to any toolkit. Its combination of brightness, adjustability, and versatile hanging options make it an invaluable resource for a wide range of tasks. The fact that it integrates seamlessly with the Craftsman V20 battery system is an added bonus, especially for those already invested in the ecosystem.

Would I recommend this worklight? Absolutely. Its practical design, robust build, and impressive battery life make it a reliable companion for both professional and DIY tasks. Whether you’re an automotive enthusiast, a home improvement aficionado, or simply in need of a reliable light source for power outages, this worklight is worth considering.