Craftsman Brushless Cordless String Trimmer

Navigating the world of cordless string trimmers can be a bit overwhelming, especially with the myriad of options available. I recently had the chance to put the Craftsman Brushless Cordless String Trimmer (model CMCST920B) to the test, and I wanted to share my experiences and insights with you.

Design and Build Quality

At first glance, the Craftsman trimmer appears robust yet user-friendly. The adjustable-length pole is a feature that immediately stands out, accommodating users of various heights comfortably. As someone who’s on the taller side, I appreciated the extension capability, which helped reduce the strain on my back during extended use.

The overall build, however, is a mixed bag. While the trimmer's body feels solid enough for typical home use, there are areas where the plastic components seem less durable than I’d prefer. The head of the trimmer, in particular, shows signs of wear rather quickly, which raises concerns about its longevity.

Motor and Performance

This trimmer is equipped with a brushless motor, which promises better efficiency and longer lifespan compared to brushed motors. In practice, the motor delivers quite a punch. It operates at a maximum speed of 6000 RPM, which is more than sufficient for most residential trimming tasks.

I found the dual-speed setting particularly useful. The low-speed mode is adequate for lighter trimming, conserving battery life, while the high-speed mode tackles denser patches of grass and weeds with ease. However, prolonged use at high speed seemed to cause the motor to overheat, leading to intermittent operation issues. This was a bit concerning, especially considering the trimmer’s price point.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is often a significant concern with cordless tools, and the Craftsman trimmer is no exception. The trimmer is compatible with the 20V MAX* Lithium-Ion battery, which is part of Craftsman's V20 system. This compatibility is a nice touch, allowing me to use batteries from other Craftsman tools in the same lineup.

In terms of runtime, the battery held up reasonably well. On a full charge, I managed to trim my medium-sized yard on the low-speed setting without needing a recharge. However, switching to high speed reduced the battery life significantly. Notably, the battery charges relatively quickly, which is a plus if you have multiple batteries on hand.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of this trimmer is its user-friendly design. The QUICKWIND® spool system simplifies line replacement, making it less of a chore. The bump feed system worked reliably for the most part, though I did encounter occasional issues with the line advancing too quickly or getting tangled.

The trimmer is lightweight, which makes it easy to maneuver around the yard. The auxiliary handle is adjustable, allowing you to find a comfortable grip. However, I did find the trimmer to be somewhat unbalanced, with the head being noticeably heavier than the back. This imbalance made extended use a bit tiring on the arms.

Additional Features

The Craftsman trimmer is compatible with the VERSATRACK™ wall organization system, which is great for keeping your garage or shed tidy. This feature, while not essential to the trimmer’s operation, is a thoughtful addition for those who like to keep their tools organized.

Another positive aspect is the relatively quiet operation of the trimmer. Compared to gas-powered models, the noise level is significantly lower, making it more pleasant to use, especially in residential areas.

Drawbacks

While there are many positives, the trimmer is not without its flaws. The bump feed mechanism, although convenient, has been a source of frustration at times. On several occasions, the line either advanced too quickly or got tangled, requiring manual adjustment.

Durability is another area of concern. The plastic components, particularly the head and the battery casing, seem prone to wear and damage. This raises questions about the trimmer's long-term reliability, especially for those who use it frequently.

Lastly, the trimmer lacks a dedicated edging function, which some users might find disappointing. While it’s possible to edge by turning the trimmer on its side, the ergonomics are less than ideal, making it challenging to maintain a straight line.

Conclusion

The Craftsman Brushless Cordless String Trimmer (model CMCST920B) is a solid choice for homeowners looking for a versatile and easy-to-use trimmer. Its brushless motor, adjustable pole length, and QUICKWIND® spool system make it a convenient tool for regular yard maintenance. The compatibility with the V20 battery system is a significant advantage, especially if you already own other Craftsman tools.

However, there are notable drawbacks, particularly regarding durability and the bump feed mechanism. The trimmer’s components show signs of wear relatively quickly, and the line advancement system can be finicky. Additionally, the lack of a dedicated edging function and the trimmer’s unbalanced design may be deal-breakers for some users.

Would I recommend this trimmer? Yes, but with reservations. If you’re a homeowner with a modest-sized yard and you're looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use trimmer that doesn’t require the hassle of gas, the Craftsman trimmer is worth considering. However, if you need a more durable, heavy-duty tool for frequent or intensive use, you might want to explore other options.