Craftsman 3/8-in SAE Impact Socket Set

As a DIY enthusiast and professional mechanic, I've had the pleasure of testing many tools over the years. Recently, I got my hands on the Craftsman 3/8-in SAE Impact Socket Set, model number CMMT15880. This 9-piece set is designed for high torque applications and promises to prevent rounding of fasteners. Here’s my take on this socket set after putting it through its paces.

First Impressions

When I first opened the package, the black oxide finish immediately caught my eye. Not only does it give the sockets a sleek, professional look, but it also provides corrosion resistance, which is crucial for longevity, especially if you’re working in environments prone to moisture and rust. The sockets feel solid and well-made, which is exactly what you’d expect from a brand like Craftsman.

Design and Build Quality

The 6-point socket design is a standout feature. This design ensures that the socket engages with the flats of the fasteners rather than the corners. This is particularly beneficial for high-torque applications as it helps to prevent rounding and extends the life of both the socket and the fastener. The large markings on each socket make size identification quick and easy, saving you precious time when you’re in the middle of a project.

The set includes nine sockets ranging from 1/4-inch to 3/4-inch. This range covers most common sizes you’ll encounter in both automotive and household tasks. The sockets are designed to fit a 3/8-inch drive, making them compatible with most impact wrenches and drivers.

Performance

I tested these sockets on various tasks, from automotive repairs to assembling furniture. The sockets fit snugly on fasteners, and I never experienced any slippage or rounding. The black oxide finish held up well, showing no signs of wear even after multiple uses.

One of the most impressive aspects of this set is its ability to handle high torque. I used them with my Dewalt impact driver, and the sockets performed flawlessly. They didn’t show any signs of stress or deformation, even when subjected to high torque applications. This gives me confidence that these sockets will last a long time, even with frequent use.

Usability

The large size markings are a small but significant feature. They make it incredibly easy to quickly identify the right socket, which is particularly useful when you’re working on a time-sensitive project. The sockets also engage easily with the driver, making them straightforward to use even for someone who may not be very experienced with tools.

Specifications and Features

Here’s a quick rundown of the key specifications and features:
- Drive Size: 3/8 in
- Product Finish: Black Oxide
- Measurement Standard: SAE
- Number of Pieces: 9
- Points: 6-point
- Product Height: 1.9 in
- Product Length: 13.8 in
- Product Width: 2.7 in
- Product Weight: 1.5 lb
- Warranty: Full Lifetime Warranty
- Includes: (9) 3/8-In. Drive Shallow Impact Sockets SAE - 1/4-In., 5/16-In., 3/8-In., 7/16-In., 1/2-In., 9/16-In., 5/8-In., 11/16-In., 3/4-In.

Durability

From my experience, the durability of this socket set is top-notch. The black oxide finish not only looks good but also provides excellent corrosion resistance. I’ve used these sockets in various environments, including damp and dusty conditions, and they’ve held up remarkably well.

The 6-point design also contributes to the durability by reducing the likelihood of rounding off fasteners. This is a common issue with lower-quality sockets, but it’s not something you’ll have to worry about with this set.

Value for Money

Given the quality and performance of this socket set, it offers excellent value for money. Craftsman has always been known for producing reliable, high-quality tools, and this set is no exception. The full lifetime warranty is a testament to the confidence Craftsman has in their product, and it provides peace of mind knowing that you’re covered if anything goes wrong.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Craftsman 3/8-in SAE Impact Socket Set is a robust, reliable, and well-designed tool that lives up to its promises. Whether you’re a professional mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, this socket set will meet your needs for high-torque applications. The 6-point design, corrosion-resistant finish, and large size markings make it a pleasure to use.

If you’re in the market for a new set of impact sockets, I highly recommend giving this set a try. It offers excellent performance, durability, and value for money. With Craftsman’s full lifetime warranty, you can be confident that this set will be a reliable addition to your tool collection for years to come.