Craftsman Cordless Compact Blower

The Craftsman Cordless Compact Blower, model CMCBL0100B, is a tool that caught my attention due to its promise of portability and versatility. As someone who frequently deals with yard work, shop cleanup, and general household maintenance, I was eager to see if this compact blower could meet the diverse needs I encounter regularly.

Design and Build Quality

First impressions matter, and the Craftsman Cordless Compact Blower makes a strong one. The tool is lightweight at just 4.3 pounds, which significantly reduces user fatigue during extended use. Its compact dimensions (13.8 inches in length, 8.6 inches in height, and 5.8 inches in width) make it easy to handle and maneuver, even in tight spaces. The blower feels well-constructed, and the materials used seem durable enough to withstand regular wear and tear.

Performance and Versatility

The blower boasts a maximum speed of 125 MPH, which is quite impressive for its size. This speed is more than adequate for tasks like clearing dry leaves from gutters, blowing sawdust off a workbench, or even cleaning up the garage floor. However, it's essential to manage expectations; this isn't a heavy-duty yard leaf blower. It's designed for lighter tasks, and in that capacity, it excels.

One of the standout features is the 3-speed selector, which allows for precise control over the airflow. This feature is particularly useful when you need to adjust the power to avoid creating a dust storm in enclosed spaces like a garage. The variable speed trigger adds another layer of control, enabling you to modulate the airflow finely. This makes the blower versatile enough for various applications, from delicate tasks like drying a vehicle after washing to more robust jobs like clearing debris from a patio.

Usability and Comfort

Craftsman has designed this blower with user comfort in mind. The lock-on trigger is a thoughtful addition, reducing the strain on your fingers during prolonged use. However, I did notice that the switch tends to pinch the finger occasionally, which can become annoying over time.

The blower includes three different attachments, which enhance its versatility. These attachments allow you to tackle various tasks without needing multiple tools. For instance, the smaller diameter rubber nozzle is perfect for high-velocity air flow, making it ideal for blowing water out of crevices during car detailing.

Battery Life and Power Source

The Craftsman Cordless Compact Blower operates on a 20V MAX Lithium-Ion battery, which is sold separately. This is a common setup for cordless tools, and if you already own other Craftsman V20 tools, you can interchange the batteries. However, the blower's battery life leaves much to be desired. In my experience, a fully charged 2.0AH battery lasted around 10-15 minutes on the highest setting. This is somewhat limiting, especially if you have extensive cleanup tasks.

For longer runtimes, I recommend using a higher capacity battery, like the 4.0AH version. With this, I was able to get about 30 minutes of use, which is more reasonable for most light-duty tasks. It's worth noting that the blower tends to shut off when it gets too hot, which can be frustrating if you're in the middle of a job. Allowing the motor to cool down for a few seconds usually resolves this issue.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Lightweight and Compact: Easy to handle and reduces user fatigue.
• Versatile Attachments: Enhances the tool's functionality for various tasks.
• 3-Speed Selector and Variable Trigger: Provides excellent control over airflow.
• Lock-On Trigger: Reduces finger strain during extended use.
• Well-Built: Durable construction that feels solid.

Cons

• Battery Life: Short runtime on standard 2.0AH battery.
• Switch Issue: Tends to pinch the finger occasionally.
• Heat Shutdown: Motor shuts off when it gets too hot, interrupting work.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Craftsman Cordless Compact Blower is a solid addition to any tool collection, particularly if you already own other tools in the Craftsman V20 lineup. Its lightweight and compact design make it incredibly user-friendly, and the versatile attachments add significant value. The 3-speed selector and variable speed trigger provide excellent control, making it suitable for a range of tasks from light yard work to shop cleanup.

However, the battery life is a notable drawback. If you plan to use this blower for extended periods, investing in a higher capacity battery is essential. Also, the occasional switch pinching and heat shutdown issues can be minor annoyances but are not deal-breakers considering the tool's overall performance.

Would I recommend the Craftsman Cordless Compact Blower? Yes, but with some reservations. It's an excellent tool for light-duty tasks and offers great versatility and ease of use. Just be prepared to manage the limitations of its battery life and occasional usability quirks. If you can work around these issues, you'll find this blower to be a valuable and reliable tool in your arsenal.