Craftsman Gas Leaf Blower/Vacuum

The Craftsman Gas Leaf Blower/Vacuum, model CMXGAAMR7BVM, is an impressive piece of equipment that makes yard work significantly more manageable. Powered by a 27cc, 2-cycle full-crank engine, this tool offers a robust combination of power and versatility, making it a valuable addition to any homeowner's toolkit.

First Impressions and Assembly

Right out of the box, the blower feels solid and well-constructed. The packaging is thoughtful, with all components securely placed, and it even includes a can of pre-mixed fuel. Assembly is straightforward, largely due to the well-written and clear instruction manual. Attaching the blower tubes and setting up the vacuum kit is relatively simple, although it does require a flat-head screwdriver for some steps. This is a minor inconvenience, but it would have been nice to see a tool-less design for quicker transitions between modes.

Starting and Performance

One of the standout features of this blower is its Easy Start technology. Starting the blower is as simple as priming the bulb, setting the choke, and pulling the cord. In my experience, it started on the first pull every time, which is a significant improvement over other gas-powered tools I’ve used in the past. The variable speed throttle and cruise control are excellent additions, allowing you to adjust the airflow to suit the task at hand without constantly holding down the trigger.

The blower mode is where this tool truly shines. With an air volume of 450 CFM and an airspeed of 205 MPH, it handles both dry and wet leaves with ease. The power is comparable to some backpack blowers, making it more than capable of tackling heavy debris and large piles of leaves. Despite its power, the blower is relatively lightweight at 10 pounds, and the comfort overmold handle helps reduce vibration, making it comfortable to use for extended periods.

Vacuum Mode

Switching to the vacuum mode, however, is where the tool shows some room for improvement. Converting the blower to a vacuum requires removing the blower tube and attaching the vacuum tube and bag, which again, necessitates the use of a screwdriver. This process is not overly complicated but could certainly be streamlined. Once set up, the vacuum performs adequately, with a 16:1 debris reduction ratio that efficiently mulches leaves. However, the design of the vacuum bag could use some refinement. The zipper placement makes it difficult to completely empty the bag, as some debris tends to get stuck at the bottom.

Additionally, the U-shaped tube that connects the vacuum to the bag feels somewhat awkward to maneuver. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it does take some getting used to, and a more flexible hose design would likely improve the overall user experience. The plastic impeller also raises some concerns about durability, especially when dealing with larger debris.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Ergonomically, the blower is well-balanced and comfortable to hold. The overmold handle does a good job of reducing vibration, and the lightweight design means you can use the tool for extended periods without significant fatigue. The cruise control feature is particularly useful, allowing you to maintain a consistent airflow without constantly pressing the throttle.

However, when using the vacuum mode, the ergonomics are less favorable. The vacuum bag’s strap tends to slip off the shoulder, especially as the bag fills up, making it somewhat cumbersome to use. Also, the need to frequently empty the bag can be a bit of a hassle, particularly for larger yards.

Build Quality and Durability

In terms of build quality, the Craftsman blower is robust and feels durable. The plastics used are of good quality, and the overall construction inspires confidence. However, the use of plastic for the impeller and some of the locking mechanisms does raise concerns about long-term durability. Metal components in these areas would likely extend the tool’s lifespan and improve its ability to handle tougher debris.

Noise and Vibration

Considering it's a gas-powered tool, the noise levels are relatively acceptable. It’s quieter than some other 2-cycle engines I’ve used, which is a pleasant surprise. Vibration is also well-managed, thanks to the overmold handle, making the tool more comfortable to use for extended periods.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

All in all, the Craftsman Gas Leaf Blower/Vacuum is a powerful and versatile tool that excels in blower mode. Its ease of starting, robust power, and comfortable design make it a joy to use for clearing leaves and debris. The vacuum mode, while functional, could benefit from some design improvements to enhance ease of use and durability.

For homeowners with medium to large yards, this blower is a solid choice. Its power and ease of use make it highly effective for most yard maintenance tasks. However, if you frequently switch between blowing and vacuuming, the need for a screwdriver and the somewhat cumbersome vacuum setup might be a drawback.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Craftsman Gas Leaf Blower/Vacuum for its excellent performance as a blower and its overall ease of use. While the vacuum mode has its quirks, the tool’s power and reliability make it a valuable addition to any yard maintenance arsenal. If Craftsman addresses some of the design issues in future models, this tool could easily become a top contender in its category.