Craftsman Screw Extractor, 3-Piece Set

Finding a reliable screw extractor set can be a game-changer, especially when dealing with those infuriating moments where a screw or bolt head gets stripped or rusted. Recently, I had the opportunity to try out the Craftsman Screw Extractor 3-Piece Set (model CMAT133). Having faced my fair share of stubborn screws, I was curious to see how this set would perform. Here’s my detailed experience with the tool.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the package, the Craftsman Screw Extractor set feels solid. Each piece in the set is made from high-speed steel (M2 HSS), which promises durability and toughness. The set includes three extractors, each equipped with their DoubleLok™ Technology, ensuring that both ends of the bit lock securely in impact drivers. This technology is meant to reduce the chance of slippage, which is a significant advantage when dealing with particularly stubborn screws.

The extractors also feature a serrated tip designed to increase torque. This, combined with the minimized walking at the drill tip, theoretically should make it easier to penetrate and grip the stripped screw head. The design is compact, making it easy to store and carry in a tool bag.

Performance

I had a few tasks lined up to put this set to the test. The first challenge was a stripped hex bolt on a piece of machinery. After fitting the appropriate extractor, I found that it didn’t bite into the head as effectively as I had hoped. Despite applying considerable pressure, the tip seemed to dull quickly, which was disappointing. Craftsman's decision to limit the extractor portion to about 1/4 of an inch might contribute to this issue. A longer extractor portion would likely provide a better grip on the screw head, enhancing the tool’s effectiveness.

On a positive note, I used the set to remove some stripped screws from a piece of salvaged lumber. This time the extractors performed admirably. The serrated tip bit into the screw head effectively, and the screw came out with relative ease. The process was straightforward: drill a small hole with one end, then flip the extractor to use the serrated end to pull out the screw. This dual functionality is convenient, minimizing the need to switch between multiple tools.

Durability and Usability

Durability seems to be a mixed bag with this set. While the high-speed steel construction suggests resilience, I encountered issues with edge retention. In some instances, the extractors became dull quickly, especially when dealing with harder metals. This isn’t entirely unexpected, given that high-speed steel, while tough, isn’t indestructible. However, I did expect better performance from a brand like Craftsman.

Another concern is the occasional breakage of the extractors. In one instance, the extractor broke off inside the screw, making it nearly impossible to drill out. This not only complicated the job but also created more work, as I had to find another solution to remove the broken piece.

Ease of Use

Using the Craftsman Screw Extractor set is relatively straightforward. The bits fit securely in impact drivers, and the minimized walking at the drill tip helps maintain control when starting to drill into the screw head. The process of drilling a hole and then using the extractor end to remove the screw is intuitive and doesn’t require much effort once you get the hang of it.

One piece of advice is to ensure you apply enough pressure and maintain a consistent speed when drilling. This helps the extractor bite into the screw head more effectively. Using a hand wrench to apply torque can also make the process smoother, especially for more stubborn screws.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

The Craftsman Screw Extractor 3-Piece Set (CMAT133) has its strengths and weaknesses. On the positive side, the set is compact, easy to use, and effective for most light to moderate screw extraction tasks. The high-speed steel construction and DoubleLok™ Technology add to its appeal, making it a handy addition to any toolbox. In situations where you need a quick and effective solution for stripped or rusted screws, this set can be a real lifesaver.

However, there are some notable drawbacks. The durability of the extractors could be improved, particularly when dealing with harder metals. The tendency for the tips to dull quickly and the occasional breakage inside screws are significant concerns. These issues can hinder the overall performance and reliability of the set.

Considering my experience, I would recommend the Craftsman Screw Extractor set for light to moderate use. It’s an excellent tool for DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists, and professionals who occasionally encounter stripped screws. However, if you frequently deal with more demanding tasks or require a tool with higher durability and reliability, you might want to explore other options.

In summary, the Craftsman Screw Extractor set is a valuable tool for the right applications. Its ease of use and dual functionality make it a versatile addition to any toolkit, provided you’re aware of its limitations.