Craftsman Brushless Cordless Axial Leaf Blower

As a homeowner who takes pride in maintaining a tidy yard, I was eager to test the Craftsman Brushless Cordless Axial Leaf Blower (model CMCBL720B). My yard is a blend of lawn, driveway, and patio, all of which require regular upkeep, especially during the fall season when leaves seem to blanket every surface. This blower, with its brushless motor and cordless design, promised a lot. Here’s my detailed experience with it.

Unboxing and First Impressions

The first thing I noticed when unboxing the blower was its lightweight design. Weighing in at less than 6 pounds, it was immediately clear that this tool would be easy to handle for extended periods. The blower came with an integrated hook for storage, which is a thoughtful addition for those of us who like to keep our tools organized. However, it's important to note that the battery and charger are sold separately, so make sure you have a compatible 20V MAX Lithium-Ion battery on hand or be prepared to purchase one.

Assembly and Initial Use

Assembly was a breeze. In under a minute, I had the blower ready to go. The instructions were straightforward, and all the parts fit together seamlessly. Once I inserted the battery, I was ready to test its capabilities.

Performance and Efficiency

The blower’s brushless motor is designed for improved efficiency and it shows. The variable-speed trigger is a fantastic feature, allowing me to control the power and runtime based on the task at hand. For lighter tasks, such as clearing grass clippings from the driveway, I could dial down the power to conserve battery life. For more stubborn debris, the boost button provided an impressive surge of power, making quick work of even the most challenging spots.

The blower boasts an airflow speed of up to 100 MPH and an air volume of up to 350 CFM. In practical terms, this means it can handle a wide range of tasks, from light sweeping to more intensive yard clean-up. I found it particularly effective for clearing leaves from my lawn and patio. The blower’s power was more than sufficient to move large piles of leaves without needing multiple passes.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is a critical factor for any cordless tool, and this blower did not disappoint. On a full charge, I was able to get a solid 20-25 minutes of continuous use on the highest setting, which was enough to complete most of my yard tasks. For larger properties or more intensive use, having a spare battery on hand would be advisable. Charging the battery was quick, taking about an hour to reach full capacity.

Comfort and Usability

One of the standout features of this blower is its lightweight design. At less than 6 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver and doesn’t cause arm fatigue, even after extended use. This makes it accessible for users of all ages and physical conditions. The ergonomic design and well-placed controls further enhance its usability. The blower is also relatively quiet compared to gas-powered models, which is a big plus for maintaining peace in the neighborhood.

Build Quality and Durability

The build quality of the Craftsman blower is solid. The materials used feel robust and durable, capable of withstanding regular use. The connectors and plastic components are precisely cast, contributing to a sense of reliability. I haven’t had any issues with parts coming loose or showing signs of wear after several weeks of use.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Lightweight and Easy to Use: The blower’s light weight and ergonomic design make it comfortable to use for extended periods.
• Powerful Performance: With an airflow speed of up to 100 MPH and 350 CFM, it handles a wide range of yard tasks efficiently.
• Variable-Speed Trigger: Allows for precise control of power and runtime, which is great for different types of clean-up jobs.
• Quick Charging: The battery charges quickly, minimizing downtime.
• Quiet Operation: Much quieter than gas-powered alternatives, making it more neighborhood-friendly.

Cons:

• Battery and Charger Not Included: It’s a bit of a downside that the battery and charger are sold separately, adding to the overall cost.
• Battery Life: While adequate for most tasks, the battery life may not be sufficient for larger properties without a spare battery.

Final Thoughts

After using the Craftsman Brushless Cordless Axial Leaf Blower extensively, I can confidently say it’s a valuable addition to any homeowner’s tool arsenal. Its combination of power, lightweight design, and ease of use make it a versatile tool for a variety of yard maintenance tasks. While the need to purchase the battery and charger separately is a minor inconvenience, the overall performance and build quality more than make up for it.

If you’re looking for a reliable, efficient, and user-friendly leaf blower, the Craftsman Brushless Cordless Axial Leaf Blower is a solid choice. Its ability to handle everything from light sweeping to heavy-duty leaf blowing, combined with its comfortable design, makes it well worth considering. I would recommend this tool to anyone in need of a dependable solution for yard maintenance.