Craftsman Metric Combination Wrench Set

The Craftsman Metric Combination Wrench Set (model CMMT12068) has been a staple in my toolbox for a few months now, and I feel well-acquainted with its strengths and shortcomings. This 20-piece set boasts a range of sizes from 4mm to 24mm, making it versatile enough for a variety of tasks, from automotive repairs to general bolt turning. With its full polish chrome finish and 12-point box end design, this set promises both durability and ease of use.

Build Quality and Material

The first thing that stands out about these wrenches is their full polish chrome finish. Not only does this give the tools a sleek, professional look, but it also provides excellent corrosion resistance. This is particularly important for those of us who often work in environments where moisture and other corrosive elements are present. The steel construction feels solid in the hand, and the overall weight of the set is substantial at 7.2 lbs, which adds to the feeling of durability.

However, it's worth mentioning that the manufacturing origin is China, which has raised some concerns about consistency in quality. In my experience, the open ends of some wrenches were not perfectly true. This slight imperfection didn't significantly impact performance in most cases, but it was noticeable. The ratcheting mechanism, another key feature, was generally smooth, although a couple of wrenches had a less refined feel compared to others in the set.

Design and Ergonomics

One of the standout features of this set is the 15° box end offset, which provides additional knuckle clearance. This design choice is a game-changer when working in tight spaces, such as car engines, where every millimeter of clearance can make a difference. The large size markings on each wrench are another thoughtful touch, allowing for quick identification even in low-light conditions.

The 12-point box end design is particularly useful for quick engagement with fasteners. This feature reduces the chance of rounding off the edges of bolts, which can be a common issue with 6-point designs. The ratcheting mechanism on the box end is another significant advantage, allowing for continuous turning without having to remove and reposition the wrench. This can save a considerable amount of time, especially in repetitive tasks.

Performance

In terms of performance, these wrenches have generally met my expectations. The ratcheting mechanism is smooth and reliable, making it easy to tighten or loosen bolts without the need for constant readjustment. This is particularly useful in confined areas where maneuverability is limited. However, I did encounter occasional issues with the direction latch being difficult to flip or not functioning as smoothly as I would like. In some instances, the ratcheting direction would remain unchanged despite flipping the latch, which could be frustrating.

The open end of the wrenches, while generally effective, did have some inconsistencies. Some wrenches were not perfectly squared or perpendicular, which affected their grip on fasteners. This was a minor issue in most cases but could be problematic in high-torque applications where a secure grip is essential.

Value for Money

For a price point of around $50, this set offers good value for money. The range of sizes included is comprehensive, covering most common metric fasteners. The lifetime warranty provided by Craftsman is another significant advantage, offering peace of mind that any defective tools will be replaced. This warranty is a testament to the brand's confidence in their product, despite some of the quality control issues noted.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Full Polish Chrome Finish: Excellent corrosion resistance and professional appearance.
• 15° Box End Offset: Provides additional knuckle clearance, useful in tight spaces.
• Large Size Markings: Easy to identify the right size quickly.
• 12-Point Box End: Reduces the chance of rounding off fasteners.
• Ratcheting Mechanism: Saves time by allowing continuous turning without repositioning.

Cons:

• Quality Control Issues: Some wrenches had inconsistent open ends and ratcheting mechanisms.
• Made in China: Raises concerns about long-term durability compared to USA-made tools.
• Bulky Design: The ratcheting end can be too thick for tight spaces.
• Direction Latch Issues: Occasionally difficult to flip or ineffective.

Final Thoughts

The Craftsman Metric Combination Wrench Set is a solid addition to any toolbox, particularly for those who require a comprehensive range of metric sizes. The full polish chrome finish, 15° box end offset, and large size markings are standout features that enhance usability and durability. While there are some quality control issues and the bulkiness of the ratcheting end can be a drawback, the overall performance and value for money make this set a worthy investment.

Would I recommend this set? Yes, but with some reservations. If you are a professional mechanic or someone who frequently works on high-precision tasks, you may find the inconsistencies and bulkiness to be limiting. However, for general use and most DIY projects, this set offers excellent value and functionality. The lifetime warranty provided by Craftsman adds an extra layer of assurance, making it a reliable choice for both hobbyists and professionals alike.