Craftsman Cordless Inflator

When I first pulled the Craftsman Cordless Inflator out of its box, I was immediately struck by its lightweight and compact design. Weighing in at just under six pounds, this tool is easy to handle and manage, making it accessible for just about anyone to use. The convenience of its size cannot be overstated; it can easily be stowed in the trunk of a car without taking up too much space, and can be quickly grabbed whenever needed.

One of the standout features of this inflator is its versatility in power sources. It can run on a V20 MAX Lithium Ion battery, an AC wall plug, or a 12V vehicle adapter. This tri-power capability means you can inflate items virtually anywhere, whether you’re at home, on the road, or even camping. While the unit does not come with a battery, for those already invested in the Craftsman V20 ecosystem, this is hardly an issue. Using the battery was straightforward, and it didn't add much additional weight to the already light design.

Setting up the inflator was a breeze, even for someone who didn’t fully read the instructions at first. The digital gauge is a great feature, providing a clear and easy-to-read display of the pressure. This makes it simple to monitor and adjust the PSI as needed. The automatic shutoff function is another excellent addition, allowing you to set your desired PSI and walk away while the inflator does its job. This hands-free operation is a real time-saver and adds an element of safety, as it prevents over-inflation.

The flexibility of use extends beyond just power sources. The Craftsman Cordless Inflator comes with various adapters, making it suitable for a range of inflation needs from automobile tires to air mattresses and sports equipment. I found it particularly useful for inflating everything from car tires to basketballs and even a large inflatable pool toy. The hose is long enough to provide comfortable maneuverability, and attaching it to different valves was simple and intuitive.

In terms of performance, the inflator works impressively well. I was able to bring a nearly flat tire on my car up to the recommended PSI in about 10-15 minutes, even in frigid temperatures. It’s not the fastest inflator on the market, but it gets the job done efficiently and reliably. For smaller items like bike tires and sports equipment, it’s even quicker. The noise level is lower than I expected for a tool of this type, making it less intrusive to use in various settings.

One minor drawback I noticed was that the digital gauge can sometimes be a bit off. On one occasion, it displayed a pressure reading that was significantly higher than the actual PSI. However, this only happened once, and subsequent uses showed accurate readings. It’s worth double-checking with a separate gauge if precise pressure is critical for your application. Additionally, the lack of a trigger lock means you have to hold the trigger down for the duration of the inflation process, which can be a bit tiring for longer jobs.

Despite these small issues, the Craftsman Cordless Inflator is a reliable and versatile tool that shines in its ease of use and portability. Its lightweight design and multiple power options make it an excellent choice for anyone needing a quick and efficient solution for inflation needs. Whether you’re topping off your car tires, inflating sports gear, or prepping for a camping trip, this inflator is up to the task.

The build quality of the inflator feels robust and durable, which is what you would expect from a Craftsman tool. It’s designed to withstand regular use and seems capable of holding up over time. The 3-year limited warranty also provides an added layer of confidence in its longevity.

In summary, the Craftsman Cordless Inflator is an invaluable tool for anyone who frequently finds themselves needing to inflate various items. Its ease of use, portability, and multiple power options make it incredibly convenient and versatile. While there are minor improvements that could be made, such as a more consistently accurate digital gauge and a trigger lock, these do not significantly detract from its overall functionality and usefulness.

I would highly recommend the Craftsman Cordless Inflator to anyone in the market for a reliable and versatile inflator. Its combination of features, performance, and ease of use make it a standout choice that offers excellent value for the money. Whether for emergency situations, routine maintenance, or recreational activities, this inflator is a solid investment that can make your life easier in many ways.