Craftsman Wire Stripper

Wire strippers are an essential part of any electrician's toolkit, and finding one that balances functionality, comfort, and durability can be a challenge. Recently, I had the opportunity to test out the Craftsman Wire Stripper, model number CMHT81714, and I have some thoughts to share on its performance.

One of the standout features of this wire stripper is its multi-zone bi-material grips. These grips provide a comfortable and secure hold, which is crucial when you're working on intricate electrical tasks. The grips are designed to offer both comfort and control, and I found that they lived up to this promise. Even after extended use, my hands didn't feel fatigued, which is a significant plus for those long wiring projects.

The wire stripper is capable of handling wire sizes from 10 to 22 AWG, making it versatile enough for most electrical tasks. In my experience, it performed well in stripping and cutting wires within this range. The cutting edges are sharp and precise, allowing for clean cuts without damaging the wire strands. This precision is particularly important when you're working with delicate wires that can easily be compromised by inferior tools.

One of the additional features of this tool is the bolt cutter. This feature is designed to cut bolts to size and leave a perfect lead thread. While the concept is excellent, I found the bolt cutter function to be somewhat challenging to use. It required a bit more effort than I expected, and I had to apply significant pressure to get a clean cut. This might be a minor inconvenience for some, but it's worth noting if you frequently need to cut bolts.

The wire crimper function is another useful addition, designed for both insulated and non-insulated terminals. In my testing, the crimper performed adequately, providing secure crimps that held up well under stress. The placement of the crimper near the handles allows for better leverage, making it easier to apply the necessary force.

One area where the Craftsman Wire Stripper could improve is the lack of a spring mechanism. After making a cut or strip, you have to manually open the tool, which can be a bit cumbersome, especially when you're in the middle of a task and need to work quickly. A spring-loaded mechanism would make the tool more user-friendly and efficient. This is a feature that many other wire strippers have, and its absence here was noticeable.

Durability is always a concern with any tool, and the Craftsman Wire Stripper seems to be built to last. The tool feels sturdy and well-constructed, and it comes with a full lifetime warranty, which speaks to the manufacturer's confidence in its durability. I accidentally dropped the tool a couple of times during my testing, and it showed no signs of damage, which is reassuring.

Another point worth mentioning is the tool's size and weight. At 10.1 inches in length and weighing 0.5 pounds, it's relatively lightweight and easy to handle. The size is just right for getting into tight spaces, which is often necessary when working on electrical projects. The tool's compact design doesn't compromise its functionality, making it a practical addition to any toolkit.

In terms of value for money, the Craftsman Wire Stripper offers a good balance. It's priced in the middle range, making it accessible without sacrificing quality. Given its performance and the added features like the bolt cutter and wire crimper, it provides good value for the price.

In conclusion, the Craftsman Wire Stripper CMHT81714 is a solid tool that performs well in most aspects. Its comfortable grips, versatility in wire sizes, and additional features like the bolt cutter and wire crimper make it a valuable addition to any electrician's toolkit. However, the lack of a spring mechanism and the somewhat challenging bolt cutter function are areas where it could improve.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, especially for those who need a reliable and versatile wire stripper for occasional use. Its durability, comfort, and lifetime warranty make it a worthwhile investment. However, if you're a professional electrician who needs a wire stripper for daily, intensive use, you might want to consider a model with a spring-loaded mechanism for added convenience. Overall, the Craftsman Wire Stripper is a dependable tool that delivers on its promises and is well worth considering for your next electrical project.