Craftsman Impact Tool Set

The Craftsman Impact Tool Set, model CMMT14104, is a versatile and reliable addition to any toolkit, designed to tackle stubborn fasteners and make challenging tasks significantly more manageable. As someone who frequently deals with rusted screws, frozen bolts, and other tough fasteners, I found this tool to be a game-changer.

First and foremost, the design and build quality of this impact tool are impressive. The full polish chrome finish not only looks sleek but also adds a layer of durability to the tool. The steel construction feels robust in hand, giving the confidence that it can withstand heavy use over time. The tool's weight, at 1.9 pounds, strikes a good balance between being substantial enough to deliver powerful impacts while still being manageable for extended use.

One of the standout features of this impact tool is its ability to deliver up to 200 ft-lb of torque when struck with a hammer. This capability is particularly useful for loosening fasteners that have been seized by rust or over-tightening. In my experience, this tool made quick work of rusted screws on an old motorcycle and stubborn bolts on a car's brake rotors. The spring mechanism that resets the plunger after each strike works flawlessly, ensuring that the tool is ready for the next impact without any fuss.

The Craftsman Impact Tool Set includes five bits, making it versatile enough to handle various fasteners. The bits are designed for slotted and Philips screws, and the tool can also drive 3/8-inch sockets. This versatility means that it can be used for a wide range of applications, from automotive repairs to household projects. The bits themselves are of high quality, though I did find that they could be better suited for smaller screw heads. For most standard applications, however, they performed admirably.

Switching between left and right torque is straightforward, thanks to the well-marked and easy-to-turn head. This feature is particularly handy when you need to both loosen and tighten fasteners without stripping them. The positive click when the head is in place provides reassurance that the tool is set correctly for the task at hand.

One aspect that stood out to me was the tool's ability to remove screws that other tools couldn't budge. For instance, I had a set of screws on a Honda Civic's rear rotors that were completely seized. A powered impact driver started to strip the screws, but the Craftsman impact tool, combined with a few good whacks from a heavy mallet, removed them with ease. This experience highlighted the tool's effectiveness in situations where precision and controlled power are required.

Another noteworthy point is the tool's ergonomic design. Despite its sturdy construction, it is comfortable to hold and use, even for extended periods. This design consideration is particularly important for those of us who may need to use the tool frequently for various projects. The handle provides a good grip, ensuring that the tool doesn't slip during use, which is crucial for both safety and effectiveness.

However, it's worth mentioning that the set could benefit from a better assortment of bits. While the included bits are of good quality, having a few more options, particularly thinner flathead bits, would enhance the tool's versatility. In some cases, I found that the provided bits were not quite right for very tiny or specific fasteners. This minor shortcoming doesn't detract significantly from the overall utility of the tool, but it's something to keep in mind if you often work with a wide range of screw sizes.

In terms of value, the Craftsman Impact Tool Set is hard to beat. Priced around $20, it offers excellent performance and durability at a very reasonable cost. The full lifetime warranty is an added bonus, providing peace of mind that the tool is built to last and that any issues will be addressed by the manufacturer.

In conclusion, I highly recommend the Craftsman Impact Tool Set for anyone who regularly deals with stubborn fasteners. Its robust construction, powerful torque delivery, and ease of use make it an invaluable tool for both professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts. While the bit assortment could be slightly improved, the overall performance and value of this tool make it a worthy addition to any toolkit. Whether you're working on automotive repairs, household projects, or any task that involves rusted or frozen fasteners, this impact tool is sure to make your job easier and more efficient.