Craftsman Cordless Handheld Vacuum

Craftsman's Cordless Handheld Vacuum, model CMCVH001B, is a compelling addition to any workshop, garage, or even household cleaning arsenal. I've had the opportunity to use this vacuum extensively, and I must say it left a strong impression.

Let's start with the design and build quality. The vacuum is compact and lightweight, weighing just 3.2 pounds. Even with the 20V MAX Lithium-Ion battery attached, it remains easy to handle and maneuver. Craftsman's signature red and black color scheme makes it visually appealing, and the design feels sturdy and robust. However, I did notice that the plastic doesn't seem as durable as the material used in some of Craftsman's power tools. This is particularly evident around the battery slot, where it feels a bit more fragile. While I haven't experienced any breakages, I would advise handling it with some care to avoid potential damage.

The vacuum's performance is where it truly shines. With a suction power of up to 45 CFM, it efficiently picks up both large and small debris. I tested it on various surfaces, including my car's interior, workbench, and around the house. The vacuum consistently delivered strong suction, easily picking up sawdust, food particles, and even larger debris like small wood chips. The included crevice tool is a nice touch, allowing you to reach into tight spots, though it's worth noting that it doesn't come with additional attachments.

One of the standout features is the two-stage filtration system. This system does an excellent job of maintaining suction power as the dust bowl fills up. Emptying the dust bowl is straightforward and mess-free, thanks to its user-friendly design. The large dust bowl capacity means you won't need to empty it frequently, which is a significant advantage during larger cleaning jobs. However, the filter does tend to clog up rather quickly, and cleaning it can be a bit of a hassle. It's washable, but finding replacement filters can be challenging, which is a downside if you plan on using the vacuum heavily.

Battery life is another critical factor to consider. Since the vacuum is sold as a tool-only option, you'll need to have a compatible Craftsman V20 battery and charger. I already had a set from my other Craftsman tools, so this wasn't an issue for me. The runtime varies depending on the battery capacity. With a 1.3Ah battery, it lasts about 15 minutes, which is sufficient for quick cleanups. A 4Ah battery extends the runtime to around 45 minutes, making it suitable for more extensive cleaning tasks. The convenience of being able to interchange batteries with other Craftsman tools is a significant plus, especially if you already own other tools in the V20 lineup.

In terms of usability, this vacuum is incredibly versatile. Its compact size and cordless design make it easy to carry around and use in different settings. Whether you're cleaning up your garage, workshop, or even doing a quick sweep of your car, this vacuum proves to be a reliable companion. It's particularly useful for spot cleaning and getting into those hard-to-reach areas where a larger vacuum might struggle.

Noise levels are also worth mentioning. While it's not completely silent, the vacuum operates at a reasonable noise level, which is not overly disruptive. This makes it suitable for indoor use without causing too much disturbance.

One minor gripe I have is the lack of a carrying case. Given its portability, a dedicated case would have been a nice addition for easy storage and transportation. However, this is a minor issue and doesn't detract significantly from the overall functionality of the vacuum.

In conclusion, the Craftsman Cordless Handheld Vacuum is a powerful, versatile, and convenient tool that excels in various cleaning scenarios. Its strong suction power, large dust bowl capacity, and compatibility with the V20 battery system make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as the filter clogging and the plastic quality around the battery slot, these issues are outweighed by the vacuum's overall performance and convenience.

I would definitely recommend this vacuum to anyone looking for a reliable handheld option for quick cleanups around the house, workshop, or garage. Its portability, strong suction, and ease of use make it a standout choice in the realm of cordless handheld vacuums.