Craftsman Brushless RP String Trimmer

Craftsman has been a household name in the tool industry for years, and their Brushless RP String Trimmer (model CMCST930P1) is yet another addition to their robust lineup. As someone who enjoys the balance of performance and convenience, I found this string trimmer to be a compelling option for both light and moderate trimming tasks around the yard.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the trimmer is lightweight and easy to handle, which is a big plus for those who find gas-powered models cumbersome. Weighing in at just 9.4 pounds, it’s designed with user comfort in mind. The handle is ergonomically positioned, making it easy to maneuver into tight spots and awkward angles.

The build quality, however, leaves room for improvement in some areas. While the overall construction feels sturdy, the spool cover and some other components seem less durable. Over extended use, I noticed that these parts tend to wear out quicker than one would expect, especially considering the reputable Craftsman name.

Performance

The heart of any string trimmer is its motor, and this model doesn't disappoint with its brushless motor. It offers impressive power and efficiency, delivering on Craftsman's promise of a 75-minute runtime on a full charge with its 5.0Ah battery. In my experience, the trimmer handled everything from regular grass to thick weeds with relative ease.

The adjustable swath size, ranging from 11 to 13 inches, provides flexibility depending on the nature of the task at hand. On the lower setting, the battery indeed lasts longer, but even on the higher setting, it managed a good 45 minutes of continuous use, which is respectable.

Usability and Features

One of the standout features is the push-button line feed. This allows for better control over the line length, eliminating the need for the traditional bump feed mechanism. However, this feature is a double-edged sword. While it simplifies the process, it sometimes fails to advance the line properly, requiring manual intervention. This can be a bit of a hassle, especially when you’re in the middle of a task.

The trimmer is also equipped with Weatherguard technology, designed to protect it from moisture and dust. Although I didn’t test it under extreme conditions, knowing it has this added protection gives some peace of mind.

Battery and Charging

The V20 battery platform is a significant advantage, particularly if you already own other Craftsman tools that use the same batteries. The included 5.0Ah battery offers good runtime, but the charging speed could be better. A full charge takes a few hours, which might be inconvenient if you’re in the middle of a big project. However, having an extra battery can mitigate this issue.

Ergonomics

The trimmer’s design aims to offer maximum comfort during use. Thanks to its lightweight build and well-placed handle, it’s easy to use for extended periods without causing fatigue. However, the length of the tool might be a bit too long for shorter individuals, making it slightly awkward to handle.

Durability

This is where the Craftsman Brushless RP String Trimmer shows some weaknesses. While the motor and battery are reliable, the trimmer head and spool cover are prone to wear and tear. After a few months of regular use, I noticed that the spool cover started to degrade, which is disappointing. Replacement parts are available but not always easy to find, which could be frustrating for users.

Noise and Vibration

One of the benefits of an electric trimmer is the reduced noise compared to gas-powered models. This trimmer is relatively quiet, making it more pleasant to use in residential areas. Vibration levels are also lower, which helps reduce fatigue during extended use.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to handle: Great for extended use without causing fatigue.
- Brushless motor: Provides good power and efficiency.
- Adjustable swath size: Offers flexibility for different tasks.
- Push-button line feed: Simplifies line advancement.
- Weatherguard technology: Adds a layer of protection against moisture and dust.
- Battery compatibility: Works with the V20 battery platform, useful if you own other Craftsman tools.

Cons:
- Durability issues: Some components, like the spool cover, wear out quickly.
- Line feed mechanism: Can be inconsistent and may require manual adjustment.
- Charging speed: Takes a few hours for a full charge, which could be inconvenient.
- Length of tool: Might be too long for shorter individuals, making it awkward to use.

Final Thoughts

The Craftsman Brushless RP String Trimmer is a solid performer for light to moderate yard work. Its lightweight design, brushless motor, and battery efficiency make it a convenient tool for most homeowners. However, it does have some durability issues and the line feed mechanism could be more reliable.

Would I recommend this trimmer? Yes, but with some reservations. If you’re looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use trimmer with good power and already own other Craftsman V20 tools, this model is a great addition. However, if you need a trimmer for heavy-duty tasks or are concerned about component longevity, you might want to explore other options.