Craftsman Cordless Brushless Drill/Driver Kit

The Craftsman Cordless Brushless Drill/Driver Kit, model CMCD713C1, has quickly become an essential part of my toolkit. As someone who frequently tackles DIY projects around the house, the convenience and performance of this drill have been nothing short of impressive.

First and foremost, the brushless motor is a game-changer. Compared to my old brushed motor drill, the difference is immediately noticeable. The brushless motor not only provides more power but also significantly extends the runtime, allowing me to complete larger projects without the constant need to recharge. This feature alone has saved me a considerable amount of time and frustration.

The drill comes with a 1/2 inch ratcheting chuck, which makes bit retention a breeze. I no longer have to worry about bits slipping or falling out during use. The chuck's design also makes it easy to change bits quickly, which is particularly useful when switching between drilling and driving tasks.

One of the standout features of this drill is its two-speed gearbox. With speeds ranging from 0-600 RPM and 0-1900 RPM, I can easily adjust the drill's speed to match the task at hand. Whether I'm drilling into wood or driving screws, the variable speed control allows for precise and efficient work. The trigger's responsiveness adds to this, providing smooth and controlled operation.

The drill's LED light is another thoughtful addition. Often, I find myself working in dimly lit areas, and the built-in light significantly improves visibility. This small but impactful feature ensures that I can see exactly what I'm doing, reducing the risk of mistakes and increasing overall safety.

In terms of ergonomics, the Craftsman drill is well balanced and comfortable to hold. The grip feels secure in my hand, and the weight distribution is just right, preventing fatigue during extended use. This is particularly important for larger projects where the drill is in constant use for hours at a time.

Battery life is where this drill truly shines. The kit includes a 20V MAX Lithium-Ion battery with a 1.5 Ah capacity. In my experience, this battery lasts much longer than expected. I was able to complete an entire fence project on a single charge, which is a testament to the efficiency of the brushless motor. The inclusion of a second battery in the kit is a thoughtful touch, allowing me to swap out batteries and continue working without interruption. The batteries also feature an indicator that shows how much charge is left, which is incredibly convenient for planning my work.

Durability is another strong suit of the Craftsman drill. Despite subjecting it to rigorous use, the drill has held up remarkably well. From installing return vents in my basement to building a deck, this tool has proven to be robust and reliable. The build quality is evident from the moment you pick it up, and it's clear that Craftsman has designed this drill to withstand demanding tasks.

One minor drawback I encountered was with the gear selector. It didn't move as smoothly as I would have liked, and the labels on the drill seemed to be printed poorly. While these issues didn't affect the drill's performance, they did detract slightly from the overall build quality. However, considering the drill's price point and the multitude of features it offers, these are relatively minor concerns.

For those who are new to power tools or looking for a reliable drill for home use, the Craftsman Cordless Brushless Drill/Driver is an excellent choice. It combines power, efficiency, and ease of use in a well-designed package. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just starting, this drill will meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

In conclusion, I highly recommend the Craftsman Cordless Brushless Drill/Driver Kit. Its powerful brushless motor, long battery life, and thoughtful features make it a standout tool in its category. The minor issues with the gear selector and labels are overshadowed by the drill's overall performance and value for money. If you're in the market for a dependable and versatile drill, the Craftsman CMCD713C1 is a worthy investment that will serve you well for years to come.