Craftsman 27cc 2-Cycle Gas Leaf Blower

The Craftsman 27cc 2-Cycle Gas Leaf Blower (model CMXGAAMRBL27) offers a compelling mix of power and usability, making it a noteworthy addition to any homeowner's toolkit. Having used various types of blowers over the years, I found this gas-powered model to be a significant upgrade in several key areas.

Assembly and Initial Impressions

Right out of the box, the assembly was straightforward and quick. The parts snapped together with minimal effort, and the included pre-mixed fuel was a thoughtful touch, allowing me to get started almost immediately. The gas cap was a bit tight initially, but once loosened, it was easy to handle. The blower also comes with a small bottle of 2-cycle oil, which is useful for future fuel mixtures.

Starting the Blower

Starting the blower was surprisingly easy. Craftsman’s Easy Start Technology lives up to its name. After pressing the primer bulb about ten times, the blower started on the first or second pull every time. The choke system is intuitive, automatically switching to the run position once the engine starts. This feature is a lifesaver, especially for those who have struggled with stubborn pull-start engines in the past.

Performance as a Blower

The blower mode is where this tool truly shines. With an air velocity of up to 205 mph and an air volume of 450 CFM, it makes quick work of even the most stubborn leaves and debris. I was particularly impressed with its ability to move wet leaves, a task that has defeated many of my previous blowers. The variable speed throttle and cruise control features are excellent for maintaining a consistent airflow without tiring your hand. The overmold handle is comfortable and does a good job of minimizing vibration, making it easier to use for extended periods.

Vacuum Mode: A Mixed Bag

Switching to vacuum mode is where the tool shows some design flaws. The conversion process requires a flat head screwdriver, which is not ideal when you're in the middle of yard work. It would be much more convenient if Craftsman had opted for a tool-less design. Once converted, the vacuum performs adequately, but it's clear that the blower function was the primary focus.

The vacuum bag fills up quickly, which means frequent stops to empty it. The zipper design on the bag could also use some improvement, as leaves tend to get caught in the folds, making it difficult to empty completely. Additionally, the plastic impeller raises concerns about long-term durability when vacuuming larger debris. A metal impeller would have been a more robust choice.

Ergonomics and Usability

Weighing in at 10.2 pounds, the blower is light enough to carry around without causing fatigue. The balanced design makes it easy to maneuver, whether you’re blowing leaves off the driveway or vacuuming them up in tighter spaces. The unit is quieter than I expected for a 2-cycle engine, which is a pleasant surprise. However, I would still recommend wearing ear protection for extended use.

Build Quality and Durability

The overall build quality is solid. The plastics used are durable and fit well, and the overmold handle adds a layer of comfort. One minor issue is the gas tank, which is a bit small. It lasts about 40 minutes on a full tank at full throttle, which is decent but could be better. I also noticed some fuel leakage when using the vacuum mode, likely due to the tank's design.

Additional Features

One of the standout features is the cruise control, which allows you to set a consistent speed without having to hold down the trigger. This is particularly useful for longer tasks and helps to reduce hand fatigue. The translucent fuel tank is another thoughtful addition, making it easy to check fuel levels at a glance.

Final Thoughts

The Craftsman 27cc 2-Cycle Gas Leaf Blower is a powerful and easy-to-use tool that excels in its primary function as a blower. The easy start, variable speed throttle, and cruise control features make it a joy to use. However, the vacuum mode leaves something to be desired, particularly in terms of ease of conversion and bag design.

If you’re primarily looking for a robust and reliable blower, this Craftsman model is an excellent choice. It has the power to handle both dry and wet leaves, and its ergonomic design ensures you can use it for extended periods without discomfort. The vacuum mode, while functional, could use some improvements, but it’s a nice added feature if you don’t mind the extra steps involved in switching modes.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, especially if you need a powerful and reliable blower that’s easy to start and comfortable to use. The vacuum function is a bonus, but not a dealbreaker. For the price and the features offered, it’s a solid investment for maintaining a clean and tidy yard.