Craftsman BRUSHLESS RP Blower

Craftsman's latest offering in the cordless blower segment, the BRUSHLESS RP Blower (CMCBL730B), promises a blend of power, efficiency, and convenience. As someone who often finds themselves in need of a reliable blower for yard maintenance, I was eager to see if this tool lived up to its claims.

First Impressions

Right out of the box, the blower's lightweight design immediately caught my attention. Weighing in at just 6.6 pounds, it felt easy to handle and maneuver. The compact design is another feature that stood out, making it convenient to store and carry around. The blower tube comes in two pieces, which simplifies storage and assembly.

Build Quality and Design

The blower's construction feels solid, though not overly robust. The plastic components seem durable enough for regular residential use, but I did have some concerns about the longevity of the tube retention latch, which felt a bit flimsy. The overall design is ergonomic, with a comfortable grip that makes extended use less tiring. The weather-resistant technology is a nice touch, offering some peace of mind when using the blower in less-than-ideal conditions.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the brushless motor is the star of the show. Craftsman claims that this motor offers up to 66% more runtime compared to older models, and my experience aligns with this assertion. The blower delivers an impressive airflow of up to 410 CFM and a top speed of 110 MPH, making it suitable for a variety of tasks from clearing leaves to cleaning up debris on the patio.

The blower features a boost button that temporarily increases the airflow, which is particularly useful for stubborn debris. However, I found myself using this feature quite often, which significantly reduced the battery life. Speaking of battery life, the included 5 AH 20-volt battery performed admirably, offering a decent runtime for most small to medium-sized tasks. However, for larger jobs, you might find yourself needing multiple batteries.

Battery and Charging

One of the most significant advantages of this blower is its compatibility with Craftsman's V20 battery platform. If you already own other Craftsman tools, you can easily swap batteries between them, which is a considerable convenience. The battery charges relatively quickly, allowing you to get back to work without much downtime.

However, I did encounter some issues with the battery and charger. On a couple of occasions, the battery failed to charge, rendering the blower useless until I could troubleshoot the issue. While this wasn't a frequent problem, it was frustrating when it occurred.

Noise Levels

One of the standout features of this blower is its reduced noise levels compared to gas-powered models. The quieter operation makes it more pleasant to use, especially in residential areas where noise can be a concern. It's not completely silent, but it's significantly quieter than many other blowers I've used.

Usability

The blower is incredibly easy to use. The trigger mechanism is responsive, allowing for precise control over the airflow. The lightweight design makes it easy for anyone to handle, and the compact size enhances its maneuverability. The VersaTrack compatibility is another plus, making storage straightforward and convenient.

However, I did find that the blower's power was somewhat underwhelming for more demanding tasks. While it excels at clearing light debris and dry leaves, it struggles with wet leaves and heavier debris. The boost button helps, but it drains the battery quickly, limiting its usefulness for larger jobs.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Lightweight and Easy to Handle: The blower's lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver and use for extended periods without fatigue.
• Impressive Airflow: With a maximum airflow of 410 CFM and a top speed of 110 MPH, the blower is effective for most residential tasks.
• Quiet Operation: The reduced noise levels make it more pleasant to use, especially in noise-sensitive areas.
• Battery Compatibility: The V20 battery platform offers convenience if you own other Craftsman tools.
• Quick Charging: The battery charges relatively quickly, minimizing downtime.

Cons:

• Battery Issues: Occasional problems with the battery failing to charge can be frustrating and inconvenient.
• Limited Power for Heavy-Duty Tasks: The blower struggles with wet leaves and heavier debris, limiting its effectiveness for more demanding jobs.
• Flimsy Tube Retention Latch: The plastic latch feels somewhat fragile and may not hold up well over time.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Craftsman BRUSHLESS RP Blower is a solid choice for homeowners looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use blower for light to medium-duty tasks. Its compatibility with the V20 battery platform and reduced noise levels make it a convenient and pleasant tool to use. However, if you frequently tackle more demanding jobs or require extended runtime, you may find its limitations frustrating.

Would I recommend this blower? Yes, but with some reservations. If you already own Craftsman tools and batteries, this blower is a convenient addition to your collection. It performs well for most residential tasks and is easy to use and store. However, if you need a blower for more heavy-duty work or require longer battery life, you might want to explore other options.

In summary, the Craftsman BRUSHLESS RP Blower is a capable and convenient tool for light to medium-duty yard work, but it may fall short for more demanding tasks. If you can work within its limitations, it offers a reliable and user-friendly experience.