Craftsman Wet/Dry Vac With Detachable Leaf Blower (16 gal)

The Craftsman Wet/Dry Vac with Detachable Leaf Blower (model CMXEVBE17607) is a versatile and powerful tool that has quickly become an essential part of my workshop. With its robust 6.5 peak HP motor, this vac is designed to handle heavy-duty cleanup tasks, whether it's sawdust in the garage, debris on the driveway, or even water spills in the basement. Having spent several weeks putting this tool through its paces, I can confidently share my insights on its performance, build quality, and overall functionality.

Assembly and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the Craftsman Wet/Dry Vac impresses with its solid build quality. Assembly is straightforward and quick, taking me about 15 minutes to get it fully operational. The wheels snap into place with a firm tap, and the accessory holder attaches securely with a few screws. The overall construction feels durable, with a sturdy plastic canister and well-made attachments that promise longevity.

Performance and Power

The standout feature of this vac is undoubtedly its suction power. The 6.5 peak HP motor generates impressive suction, making short work of everything from fine sawdust to larger debris. During my tests, it picked up small wood chips and dust effortlessly, leaving the workspace spotless. The oversized drain is a thoughtful addition, making it easy to dispose of liquids without the hassle of tipping the entire unit.

The detachable blower is another highlight. It snaps off easily and provides powerful airflow, perfect for clearing leaves and debris from the driveway or yard. While it's a bit on the heavier side, the blower's performance more than makes up for its bulk. It handled wet leaves with ease, something my old battery-powered blower struggled with.

Usability and Convenience

One of the features I appreciate most is the on-board storage for the hose and accessories. This keeps everything organized and within easy reach, reducing clutter in the workshop. The 20-foot power cord and 7-foot hose provide ample reach, allowing me to cover large areas without constantly searching for a new outlet. The Dual-Flex locking hose is particularly handy, offering excellent maneuverability and a secure connection that doesn't come loose during use.

The noise level is manageable, and the included muffler attachment helps reduce it further. While it's not whisper-quiet, it's certainly not as loud as some other shop vacs I've used. The unit's weight is substantial at 30.4 lbs, but the wheels make it easy to move around the workshop or garage.

Versatility

The Craftsman Wet/Dry Vac excels in versatility. It's effective for a wide range of tasks, from routine garage cleanups to more specialized jobs like unclogging a kitchen sink. The variety of attachments makes it easy to tackle different cleaning challenges, whether it's reaching tight corners or dealing with wet messes. The large 16-gallon canister means less frequent emptying, which is a big plus during extended cleanup sessions.

The detachable blower adds another layer of functionality, making this vac a true multi-purpose tool. While it's not as lightweight as a dedicated leaf blower, its performance is impressive, and the convenience of having two tools in one is hard to beat.

Areas for Improvement

While there's a lot to love about this vac, it's not without its minor drawbacks. The blower's weight can be a bit cumbersome for extended use, and a shoulder strap would have been a welcome addition to help distribute the weight more comfortably. Additionally, the unit's size may be a bit large for some homeowners, especially those with limited storage space. However, for those with larger workspaces or garages, the size is a fair trade-off for the vac's capacity and power.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Craftsman Wet/Dry Vac with Detachable Leaf Blower is a powerful, versatile, and well-built tool that delivers on its promises. Its strong suction power, convenient features, and dual functionality make it a valuable addition to any workshop or home. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the blower's weight and the unit's overall size, these are easily outweighed by its performance and versatility.

I would highly recommend this tool to anyone in need of a reliable and powerful wet/dry vac. Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, the Craftsman Wet/Dry Vac with Detachable Leaf Blower is sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Its robust construction, ease of use, and impressive performance make it a worthwhile investment that will serve you well for years to come.