Craftsman Cordless Small Angle Grinder

Craftsman's cordless small angle grinder, model CMCG451B, has been a notable addition to my tool collection, and I’ve had the opportunity to put it through its paces in various tasks. This grinder is designed to offer a balance of power, control, and portability, making it a versatile tool for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that strikes you about this grinder is its solid build. The tool feels sturdy in hand, and the 5.2-pound weight is manageable without being overly cumbersome. The three-position side handle is a thoughtful addition, providing flexibility for different grinding angles and improving overall ergonomics. This is particularly useful when working in tight spaces or on awkward angles.

The paddle switch is another feature that enhances user control. It’s easy to engage and provides a good level of safety, preventing accidental starts. The tool-free guard adjustment is a convenient touch, allowing for quick changes without the need for additional tools.

Performance and Power

The brushless motor is a highlight of this grinder, delivering a maximum speed of 8500 RPM. This translates to efficient material removal and a smoother grinding experience. I’ve used it on various metalworking tasks, including cutting through bolts and grinding down welds, and it performed admirably. The power output is consistent, and the tool doesn’t struggle even under heavy loads.

However, one of the significant downsides I noticed is the battery life. The grinder is compatible with Craftsman's 20V MAX* Lithium Ion batteries, which are not included with the tool. While the tool itself is efficient, it tends to drain batteries rather quickly. For prolonged tasks, having multiple batteries on hand is almost a necessity. This can be a bit of a hassle, especially if you don’t already own other Craftsman tools and batteries.

Comfort and Usability

Comfort is where this grinder scores high marks. The vibration levels are relatively low, and the handle design makes it comfortable to use for extended periods. Even without gloves, the grip feels secure and reduces hand fatigue. This is particularly beneficial for those involved in detailed or prolonged grinding tasks.

However, I did notice that the tool tends to get quite hot after continuous use. While this didn’t affect its performance immediately, it’s something to be mindful of during extended sessions. Allowing the tool to cool down periodically is advisable to avoid any potential overheating issues.

Application Versatility

This grinder is marketed as a versatile tool suitable for various applications, and it lives up to that promise to a large extent. Whether you’re cutting through metal, grinding down rough edges, or even performing light sanding tasks, the tool handles it all with ease. The compatibility with the VERSATRACK™ Wall Organization System is a bonus, making storage and organization simpler for those who already use this system.

Battery Considerations

One area where this grinder could see improvement is in its battery efficiency. While the brushless motor is designed to be more efficient, the tool still drains batteries faster than I’d like. Using higher capacity batteries, such as the 4.0Ah or even 9.0Ah options, can mitigate this issue to some extent. However, this adds to the overall cost and weight, which might not be ideal for everyone.

Durability and Reliability

In terms of durability, the grinder seems robust enough to handle regular use. The build quality instills confidence, and the three-year limited warranty is a reassuring backup. However, the tool’s tendency to overheat and the quick battery drain are concerns that might affect its long-term reliability. It’s essential to keep these factors in mind, especially if you plan to use the grinder for heavy-duty tasks frequently.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

Overall, the Craftsman cordless small angle grinder, model CMCG451B, is a solid choice for those looking for a versatile and powerful tool. Its ergonomic design, user-friendly features, and robust performance make it a valuable addition to any tool collection. However, the battery life and overheating issues are notable drawbacks that could impact its usability for prolonged tasks.

For DIY enthusiasts and homeowners, this grinder offers excellent value, especially if you already own other Craftsman tools and batteries. The convenience of cordless operation and the tool’s versatility make it well-suited for a range of home improvement projects. For professionals or those requiring a tool for heavy-duty, continuous use, the battery and overheating issues might be a limiting factor. In such cases, investing in additional batteries or considering a corded alternative might be worth exploring.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Craftsman cordless small angle grinder for its performance, ease of use, and versatility. However, be prepared to manage its battery consumption and overheating tendencies to get the most out of this tool.