Craftsman 3/8 Dr 6-Point Shallow Socket

Craftsman has long been a trusted name in the world of tools, and their 3/8 Dr 6-Point Shallow Socket (model CMMT17536V) is no exception. I've had the opportunity to put this socket through its paces on a variety of projects, and I’m here to share my experience with it.

First, let’s talk about the design and build quality of this socket. The 6-point geometry is a standout feature, designed to apply torque to the flats of fasteners rather than the corners. This design reduces the risk of rounding, which is a common problem with lesser-quality sockets. The full polish chrome finish not only gives it a sleek, professional look but also adds a layer of protection against rust and corrosion. The steel construction feels solid in hand, and at just 0.1 lb, it's lightweight enough to handle without causing fatigue during extended use.

One of the first tasks I used this socket for was removing some stubborn screws from an air duct connected to an evaporative cooler. These screws were notoriously tight, and while I managed to loosen a few with a basic 12-point box-end wrench, I was eager to see how the Craftsman socket would perform. Initially, the socket gripped the screws well and applied sufficient torque to loosen them without any slippage. However, after several screws, I noticed the socket began to slip and slightly round out the edges of the fasteners. This was a bit disappointing, as I expected the socket to maintain its grip better under such conditions. It made me wonder if the metal might be softer than other high-end sockets I’ve used.

Despite this hiccup, the socket performed admirably in other tasks. For instance, I used it to tighten some bolts on a DIY furniture project. Here, the socket's anti-slip grooves came in handy, especially in a lubricated environment where maintaining grip can be challenging. The chamfered and tapered tip design also made it easy to engage with the fasteners quickly, saving me time and frustration.

When it comes to compatibility, this socket fits perfectly on a standard 3/8-inch drive, whether you’re using a ratchet or an impact driver. This versatility is a big plus, as it means you can use the same socket across different tools without needing adapters or additional purchases. I also appreciated that it adheres to the metric measurement standard, which is crucial for those of us who work on projects requiring precise measurements.

Durability is always a key concern with any tool, and while my experience with this Craftsman socket was mostly positive, the initial wear during the air duct project did raise some questions. However, it's worth noting that Craftsman offers a full lifetime warranty on this socket. This warranty provides peace of mind, knowing that if the socket fails or wears out prematurely, you can get a replacement without hassle.

In terms of value, this socket is reasonably priced, especially considering its features and the lifetime warranty. It’s a great addition to any toolset, particularly for DIY enthusiasts and those who need a reliable socket for occasional use. For professionals who rely on their tools day in and day out, it might be worth considering whether the initial wear I experienced is a deal-breaker or not.

Overall, the Craftsman 3/8 Dr 6-Point Shallow Socket is a solid tool with a few minor drawbacks. Its design and features make it a versatile and handy addition to any toolkit. While it may not be the most durable socket on the market, the lifetime warranty compensates for any potential issues, ensuring you get a long-lasting tool for your investment.

Would I recommend this socket? For the average DIYer or occasional user, absolutely. It offers great value, ease of use, and the backing of a trusted brand. For professionals who demand the utmost durability and performance from their tools, it might be worth exploring higher-end options, especially if you frequently deal with extremely tight or stubborn fasteners. Nonetheless, the Craftsman socket holds its own in most scenarios and is a worthy consideration for anyone looking to expand their tool collection.