Craftsman BRUSHLESS RP Blower

Craftsman has long been a trusted name in the realm of tools, and their BRUSHLESS RP Blower, model CMCBL730P1, is no exception. This cordless blower promises a host of features designed to make yard work easier and more efficient. After spending some time with this tool, I have a nuanced perspective on its strengths and areas where it could improve.

First and foremost, the brushless motor in this blower is a standout feature. Brushless motors are known for their efficiency and longevity, and Craftsman claims that this model offers up to 66% more runtime compared to previous versions. During my testing, I found this claim to be quite accurate. The blower provided a solid 24 minutes of runtime on low speed, which is more than sufficient for most residential tasks. However, it's important to note that the runtime significantly decreases when using the Boost Button, which ramps up the airflow to 410 CFM and the speed to 110 MPH.

The design of the blower is another aspect worth mentioning. It is compact and lightweight, making it easy to handle and maneuver. Weighing in at 9.2 pounds, it is neither too heavy nor too light, striking a good balance that allows for extended use without causing fatigue. The integrated hook for the VERSATRACK Wall Organization System is a thoughtful addition, ensuring that storage is as convenient as possible.

One of the most significant advantages of this blower is its weather-resistant design. This feature is particularly useful for those who need to work in less-than-ideal conditions. The blower can withstand exposure to moisture and dust, which adds to its durability and longevity.

However, not everything about this blower is perfect. One of the most glaring issues I encountered was with the battery. Despite being advertised as coming with a 5.0Ah battery, there were instances where the included battery was actually a 4.0Ah variant. This discrepancy is not just a minor oversight; it affects the overall performance and runtime of the blower. In my experience, the 5.0Ah battery provided a noticeably longer runtime compared to the 4.0Ah battery, making this a critical point of contention.

Moreover, the battery life itself is a mixed bag. While the blower performs admirably on low speed, the Boost Button drains the battery at an alarming rate. This is somewhat expected, given the increased power output, but it's still a limitation worth noting. If you have a large yard or need to tackle more demanding tasks, you might find yourself frequently swapping batteries or waiting for them to recharge.

Speaking of recharging, the included charger does its job well, but the charging time is not particularly fast. If you plan on using the blower for extended periods, it would be wise to invest in additional batteries to minimize downtime.

The blower's performance is generally satisfactory for residential use. It excels at clearing leaves, grass clippings, and other debris from driveways, sidewalks, and patios. The two-speed settings provide a good range of power options, and the Boost Button is a nice touch for those times when you need a little extra oomph. However, for more demanding commercial applications, the blower might fall short in terms of power and battery life.

The build quality of the blower is another area where Craftsman could improve. While the main body of the blower feels sturdy and well-constructed, some of the plastic components, particularly the tube retention latch, are prone to breaking. This is a minor but frustrating issue that can affect the overall usability of the tool.

On a more positive note, the blower is relatively quiet, especially when compared to gas-powered models. This makes it a more neighbor-friendly option for early morning or late evening yard work. The noise level is low enough that it won't disturb the peace, yet the blower is powerful enough to get the job done efficiently.

In terms of ease of use, the blower scores high marks. The ergonomic design and lightweight construction make it easy to handle, even for extended periods. The trigger is responsive, and the Boost Button is conveniently located for quick access. However, I did find myself wishing for a trigger lock feature to reduce hand fatigue during prolonged use.

Overall, the Craftsman BRUSHLESS RP Blower is a solid tool that offers good performance for residential tasks. Its brushless motor, compact design, and weather-resistant features are significant advantages. However, the issues with the battery and build quality are notable drawbacks that potential buyers should consider.

Would I recommend this blower? For residential users with modest needs, absolutely. Its ease of use, compact design, and decent performance make it a valuable addition to any homeowner's tool collection. However, for those with larger properties or more demanding tasks, the limitations in battery life and power might be significant enough to warrant looking at other options.

In summary, the Craftsman BRUSHLESS RP Blower is a versatile and efficient tool that excels in many areas but has room for improvement. It's a good fit for light to moderate yard work, but those with more demanding needs might want to consider additional batteries or alternative models.