Craftsman Cordless 1/2-in Impact Wrench

The Craftsman Cordless 1/2-in Impact Wrench (CMCF900B) stands out as a robust and reliable tool for anyone needing to tackle heavy-duty tasks, whether in a professional automotive shop or for DIY projects at home. From the moment I held this impact wrench, I could sense its solid build quality and the thoughtful design that Craftsman has put into this model.

Power and Performance

One of the most impressive aspects of this impact wrench is its power. With a maximum torque of 350 ft-lbs and up to 2500 impacts per minute (IPM), this tool can handle most stubborn fasteners with ease. I used it on various tasks, including removing lug nuts and suspension bolts, and it performed admirably every time. The variable speed trigger, which allows for a maximum speed of 1700 RPM, offers excellent control, making it easy to adjust the speed according to the task at hand.

Battery Life and Compatibility

The impact wrench is part of Craftsman's V20 series, which means it uses the 20V MAX* Lithium Ion battery. While the tool itself doesn't come with a battery, I paired it with a 4.0Ah battery, and it provided ample power for extended use. I could remove and replace a full set of truck axles without needing to recharge. Even with a 2.0Ah battery, the performance was commendable, though I did notice a slight drop in power as the battery drained. For optimal performance, I recommend using a higher capacity battery, especially for more demanding tasks.

Build Quality and Ergonomics

The build quality of the Craftsman impact wrench is excellent. It feels sturdy and durable, capable of withstanding the rigors of heavy use. The tool's weight is well-balanced, making it comfortable to hold and operate for extended periods. At 5.6 pounds, it's not the lightest impact wrench on the market, but the weight contributes to its robust feel and stability during use.

The hog ring anvil is a convenient feature that allows for quick and easy socket changes, saving time and effort, especially when working on multiple fasteners. Additionally, the integrated LED light is a thoughtful inclusion, providing much-needed visibility in darker working environments.

Practical Applications

In practical use, the Craftsman impact wrench has proven to be a versatile and reliable tool. Whether you're working on automotive repairs, construction projects, or general maintenance tasks, this tool can handle a wide range of applications. I found it particularly useful for removing lug nuts, drive shafts, and axles on vehicles, where its high torque and impact power made quick work of even the most stubborn fasteners.

Limitations

While the Craftsman impact wrench excels in many areas, it's not without its limitations. The maximum torque of 350 ft-lbs, while sufficient for most tasks, may not be enough for extremely high-torque applications, such as removing crank bolts or other heavily torqued fasteners. In such cases, a more powerful impact wrench might be necessary.

Additionally, the tool's size might be a consideration for some users. At 13.8 inches in length and 10.8 inches in height, it's relatively large, which could make it challenging to use in tight spaces. However, for most standard applications, the size and weight are manageable and do not detract significantly from the tool's overall performance.

Customer Service Experience

One area where Craftsman could improve is its customer service. While my experience with the tool itself has been overwhelmingly positive, I did encounter some delays and communication issues when dealing with customer service for a replacement. It's worth noting that this experience might not be universal, but it's something to consider if customer support is a critical factor for you.

Conclusion

Overall, the Craftsman Cordless 1/2-in Impact Wrench (CMCF900B) is a powerful, reliable, and well-built tool that performs exceptionally well in a variety of applications. Its high torque, variable speed control, and convenient features like the hog ring anvil and LED light make it a valuable addition to any tool collection. While it may have some limitations in terms of maximum torque and size, these are relatively minor compared to the tool's strengths.

I would highly recommend this impact wrench to both professionals and DIY enthusiasts who need a dependable and powerful tool for their heavy-duty tasks. Its performance, build quality, and versatility make it a worthwhile investment, and with Craftsman's three-year limited warranty, you can have confidence in its durability and longevity.