Craftsman Drill Bit Set/Screwdriver Set

Craftsman's Drill Bit Set/Screwdriver Set, model CMAM3211, is an interesting addition to any DIY enthusiast's toolkit. With 21 pieces, this set is designed to handle a variety of tasks, from drilling through wood and plastic to tackling metal surfaces. The titanium nitride coating on the bits promises durability and resistance to wear, while the split point design aims to ensure precision and clean holes. But how does it perform in real-world scenarios?

Design and Build Quality

Upon first inspection, the set feels robust and well-made. The bits are housed in a compact, red plastic case that keeps everything organized and easy to access. The case itself is sturdy and fits neatly into a toolbox. However, the set does have some design choices that could be improved. For instance, the hex shanks on the drill bits are non-magnetic, which can be a dealbreaker if you rely on magnetic adapters for quick bit changes.

Performance

Drilling Through Wood and Plastic

When drilling through wood and plastic, the bits perform admirably. The split point design ensures that the bit doesn't wander, allowing for precise hole placement. The titanium nitride coating seems to hold up well, maintaining the sharpness of the bits even after multiple uses. I found that the bits cut through wood and plastic smoothly, without any significant resistance or dulling.

Drilling Through Metal

The performance of the bits when drilling through metal is a mixed bag. While they handle softer metals like aluminum reasonably well, they struggle with harder metals. The bits tend to wobble slightly, making it difficult to start a hole exactly where needed. Additionally, the durability of the bits is questionable; some of them snapped or dulled almost immediately when used on steel. This limitation makes the set less versatile than one might hope, especially if you're planning to work with various types of metal.

Versatility and Compatibility

One of the standout features of this set is its compatibility with 1/4-inch hex shank bits, making it suitable for use with both impact drivers and drill/drivers. This versatility is particularly useful for those who frequently switch between different types of tasks. However, the set includes fewer different bit sizes compared to some competitors, and there are duplicates of smaller bit sizes. This might be a drawback if you need a wide range of bit sizes for your projects.

Durability

The titanium nitride coating is supposed to enhance the durability of the bits, and to some extent, it does. The bits remain sharp when used on wood and plastic, and the coating resists corrosion. However, the design choice to narrow the diameter of the middle-range bits to fit into a hex base compromises their strength. This design flaw makes these bits more prone to snapping under pressure, particularly when used on tougher materials like steel.

Ease of Use

The set is user-friendly, thanks to the hex lock system that prevents the bits from slipping. The quick-change bit holder is a nice addition, facilitating smooth transitions between drilling and driving tasks. However, the lack of a flat screw bit in the set is a minor inconvenience. Including this would have made the set more comprehensive and convenient.

Value for Money

The set is reasonably priced, especially when you consider the quality of the bits for wood and plastic applications. However, its limitations with metal and the design flaws with the middle-range bits might make you question its overall value. If you're primarily working with wood and plastic, this set offers good value. But if you need to drill through metal regularly, you might want to consider a more specialized set.

Final Thoughts

The Craftsman Drill Bit Set/Screwdriver Set CMAM3211 is a solid choice for DIY enthusiasts who primarily work with wood and plastic. The bits are sharp, durable, and easy to use, making them a reliable addition to your toolkit. The set's compatibility with impact drivers and drill/drivers adds to its versatility, and the compact case keeps everything organized.

However, if your projects frequently involve drilling through metal, this set may not meet your needs. The bits struggle with harder metals, and the design flaw with the narrowed diameter of the middle-range bits compromises their durability.

Recommendation

I would recommend this set for DIY enthusiasts and homeowners who need a reliable set of bits for wood and plastic. The price point is reasonable, and the set performs well for these materials. However, if you're a professional or someone who frequently works with metal, you might want to invest in a more specialized set that can handle tougher materials without compromising on durability.