Craftsman 6.0Ah Lithium Ion Battery

The Craftsman 6.0Ah Lithium Ion Battery (Model CMCB206) has quickly become one of my go-to power sources for a variety of tools in my workshop. As someone who frequently uses cordless tools for both professional and personal projects, I was keen to see if this battery could live up to its promises of increased capacity and longer run times. Here’s my detailed take on this battery after putting it through its paces.

First Impressions and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the Craftsman 6.0Ah battery feels robust and well-constructed. It has a solid weight to it, which is reassuring in terms of durability, yet it’s not so heavy that it becomes cumbersome when attached to a tool. The battery features a 3-LED state-of-charge indicator, which is a simple yet highly useful addition. This allows you to quickly check the battery’s charge level without having to guess or wait until the tool starts to slow down.

Performance

One of the most impressive aspects of this battery is its longevity. I’ve used it on a range of tools, from a reciprocating saw to a circular saw, and even a 20V blower. In every case, the battery provided ample power and lasted far longer than the standard batteries I’ve used in the past. For instance, I was able to prune about 40 limbs and make several cuts on 2x4s with my circular saw, all on a single charge. The charge indicator still showed three lights, which was quite remarkable.

Compatibility

The Craftsman 6.0Ah battery is compatible with all tools in the Craftsman 20V MAX system. This is a significant advantage for anyone already invested in Craftsman tools. I found it particularly useful to have a single battery that I could swap between my drill, saw, and blower without any issues.

Charging and Self-Discharge

Charging the battery is straightforward, and it doesn’t take an unreasonable amount of time to reach a full charge. One of the standout features is its minimal self-discharge. I left the battery unused for a couple of weeks, and when I came back to it, the charge level was almost the same as when I last used it. This is a crucial feature for anyone who might not use their tools every day but still wants them ready to go when needed.

Durability and Longevity

I’ve been using this battery for several months now, and it shows no signs of wear or degradation. Craftsman claims that the battery is designed to minimize the memory effect, and so far, this seems to be accurate. The battery performs as well today as it did when I first started using it.

Cost and Value

While the Craftsman 6.0Ah battery is a bit pricier than some of the lower-capacity options, I believe it’s worth every penny. The extended run time and reliable performance more than justify the cost. Additionally, the battery comes with a 3-year limited warranty, which provides some peace of mind regarding its longevity and durability.

Real-World Applications

In real-world applications, this battery has proven to be incredibly versatile. During a recent project to build a shed, the battery’s long life meant I didn’t have to constantly stop to recharge, which significantly sped up the process. Similarly, during a power outage caused by a hurricane, the battery’s extended run time was invaluable. It powered my tools for emergency repairs and cleanup without needing frequent recharges.

Areas for Improvement

While my experience with the Craftsman 6.0Ah battery has been overwhelmingly positive, there are a couple of areas where there could be room for improvement. First, the battery is a bit bulkier than some lower-capacity options. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it’s something to consider if you’re using it with lighter, more compact tools. Secondly, the price might be a bit steep for casual users who don’t need the extended run time. However, for professionals or avid DIYers, the cost is well justified.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Craftsman 6.0Ah Lithium Ion Battery has exceeded my expectations in almost every way. Its long battery life, reliable performance, and compatibility with a wide range of tools make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. The minimal self-discharge and lack of memory effect are significant advantages, ensuring the battery is always ready to go when you need it.

I would highly recommend the Craftsman 6.0Ah battery to anyone who uses cordless tools regularly. Its extended run time and robust build quality make it a worthwhile investment, especially for those who already own tools in the Craftsman 20V MAX system. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a weekend warrior, this battery is likely to meet and exceed your power needs.