Craftsman 4.0Ah Lithium Ion Battery (2 PK)

Craftsman has long been a trusted name in tools, and their 4.0Ah Lithium Ion Battery pack aims to uphold that reputation. I recently had the opportunity to put this battery pack to the test with a variety of Craftsman V20 tools, and here's my comprehensive take on its performance, usability, and overall value.

Unboxing and First Impressions

The battery pack arrived well-packaged, emphasizing durability right from the start. Each battery features a three-LED state of charge indicator, which is a handy addition for quickly assessing the battery's charge level. This feature saves you from the frustration of starting a project only to find out midway that you need to recharge.

Performance and Longevity

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 4.0Ah battery is its substantial capacity. According to Craftsman, these batteries provide three times the capacity of a standard 20V MAX lithium battery. In practical terms, this means significantly more run time for your tools. I tested the batteries with a variety of tools, including a brad nailer, an impact driver, and a weed trimmer.

For the brad nailer, the 4.0Ah battery was a game-changer. It allowed me to get through an entire day of light carpentry work without needing to recharge. I managed to fire approximately 700-800 shots per charge, which is impressive. The battery's weight is well-balanced, making it suitable for prolonged use without causing hand fatigue—an essential factor for those with arthritis or other hand issues.

When used with the impact driver, the battery also excelled. Over two months of intermittent but frequent use, I never found myself needing to recharge. This kind of longevity is precisely what you need when tackling larger projects or when you're using multiple tools throughout the day.

Durability and Build Quality

The build quality of these batteries is robust. They fit snugly into the charger and tools, with a satisfying click that assures you they're securely in place. The side grips make it easy to remove the battery from the charger or tool, even with gloves on. The casing feels sturdy, and the batteries have survived a few accidental drops without any noticeable damage or performance issues.

Charging and Battery Management

The charging process is straightforward, thanks to the clear LED indicators. However, I did notice that the batteries can take a while to reach a full charge, typically between 45 minutes to an hour. This is reasonable for the capacity they offer but is something to keep in mind if you have a busy work schedule and limited downtime for recharging.

One of the most commendable features is the battery's minimal self-discharge. If you forget to charge the batteries regularly, you won't find them completely drained when you finally need them. This makes them highly reliable for those who may not use their tools daily but still want them ready to go at a moment's notice.

Compatibility and Versatility

These batteries are compatible with the entire Craftsman V20 cordless power tool lineup, which is a significant advantage. Whether you have a collection of outdoor tools or a variety of hand tools, these batteries can power them all. This versatility reduces the need to invest in multiple battery types, simplifying your toolkit and saving you money in the long run.

Issues and Considerations

While my experience with the Craftsman 4.0Ah batteries was predominantly positive, there are some caveats. Firstly, the batteries' shelf life can be a concern. If left unused for extended periods, they may lose their ability to hold a charge. This issue seems to be more prevalent in units that have been stored for a year or more without use.

Another point of contention is the occasional issue of batteries arriving dead on arrival or failing to charge after a short period of use. These instances seem to be rare but noteworthy. Craftsman's customer service could be more accessible and efficient in handling these issues, especially for those who may not have a receipt handy.

Conclusion

Overall, the Craftsman 4.0Ah Lithium Ion Battery pack delivers on its promises of extended run time, durability, and versatility. For anyone invested in the Craftsman V20 line, these batteries are a worthy addition to your toolkit. They excel in performance, allowing you to focus on your projects without frequent interruptions for recharging.

Despite some issues with shelf life and occasional defects, the positives far outweigh the negatives. The robust build quality, minimal self-discharge, and compatibility with a wide range of tools make these batteries a reliable choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.

Would I recommend the Craftsman 4.0Ah Lithium Ion Battery pack? Absolutely. If you’re looking for long-lasting power and reliability for your Craftsman V20 tools, these batteries are a solid investment. Just be mindful of their shelf life and ensure you store them properly to maximize their longevity.