Craftsman Cordless 4-Tool Combo Kit

Craftsman has long been a staple in my toolbox, so when I had the opportunity to try out the Craftsman Cordless 4-Tool Combo Kit (CMCK401D2), I was eager to see how it would measure up. This kit includes a drill/driver, impact driver, circular saw, and task light, all running on the 20V MAX Lithium Ion battery platform. As a DIY enthusiast who’s always tackling home improvement projects, having a versatile and powerful set of tools is essential. Here's how this combo kit performed for me.

First Impressions and Build Quality

Upon unboxing, the first thing that stood out was the build quality. Craftsman has a reputation for producing durable tools, and this set is no exception. Each tool felt solid and well-balanced in my hand, which is crucial for extended use. The metal chucks on the drill and impact driver are a nice touch, providing a more robust feel compared to plastic chucks.

The kit includes two 2.0Ah batteries, a charger, and a storage bag, which is handy for keeping everything organized. The batteries fit snugly into each tool and are easy to install and remove. The charger, while functional, did seem a bit flimsy compared to other Craftsman chargers I’ve used in the past. However, it gets the job done, charging the batteries relatively quickly.

Performance and Usability

Drill/Driver

The drill/driver is a workhorse. With its comfortable rubber grip and well-balanced design, it’s easy to handle even during long projects. The torque is impressive, making it a breeze to drill into various materials, including wood and metal. The auto on/off work light is a thoughtful feature, illuminating the work area effectively. However, the directional buttons are a bit small and can be tricky to switch between forward and reverse, especially if you’re wearing gloves.

Impact Driver

The impact driver is another standout tool in this kit. It packs a punch with plenty of torque, making it ideal for driving screws and bolts. The weight distribution is excellent, and the rubber grip ensures a secure hold. One of my favorite features is the battery life indicator light, which lets you keep track of how much juice is left. The only minor drawback is that it doesn’t have a speed adjust switch, which can make controlling the RPM challenging in some applications. However, the adjustable trigger helps mitigate this issue.

Circular Saw

The circular saw is a versatile addition to the kit. It handled cutting tasks with ease, from slicing through plywood to trimming 2x4s. The saw’s design allows for precise cuts, and the included blade is sharp and durable. However, it does consume battery power quickly, so having extra batteries on hand is advisable for larger projects. I found that using the larger batteries from my Craftsman lawn mower extended the runtime significantly.

Task Light

The task light is a handy tool for illuminating dark workspaces. It’s lightweight and easy to position, providing ample light for most tasks. While it’s not the most powerful light, it’s a convenient addition to the kit, especially for working in tight or poorly lit areas.

Battery Life and Charging

The 2.0Ah batteries included in the kit offer decent runtime, but for more demanding tasks, you might find yourself needing to recharge frequently. As mentioned earlier, the charger feels a bit flimsy, but it charges the batteries quickly enough. If you plan on using the tools extensively, investing in higher-capacity batteries like the 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah options would be beneficial. The batteries hold a charge well even when not in use, which is a plus for those infrequent DIY sessions.

Ergonomics and Comfort

One of the standout features of this kit is the ergonomics. Each tool is designed with user comfort in mind. The rubber grips are comfortable to hold, and the weight distribution is excellent, reducing fatigue during prolonged use. The tools are also relatively lightweight, making them easy to maneuver and control.

Value for Money

Given the quality and performance of the tools, this combo kit offers excellent value for money. Craftsman has managed to strike a balance between affordability and functionality, making it an attractive option for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. The inclusion of a storage bag, two batteries, and a charger adds to the overall value, ensuring you have everything you need to get started right out of the box.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Craftsman Cordless 4-Tool Combo Kit (CMCK401D2) is a solid investment for anyone looking to expand their tool collection. The build quality, performance, and ease of use make it a reliable choice for a variety of tasks. While there are minor drawbacks, such as the charger’s build quality and the lack of a speed adjust switch on the impact driver, these are outweighed by the kit’s numerous strengths.

I would highly recommend this combo kit to anyone in need of versatile, high-quality cordless tools. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting, this kit provides the power and reliability you need to tackle a wide range of projects. Craftsman continues to uphold its reputation for producing durable and dependable tools, and this combo kit is a testament to that legacy.