Craftsman Cordless 21-in 3-In-1 Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Kit

Navigating the landscape of lawn mowers can be overwhelming with so many options available, but I recently had the opportunity to use the Craftsman Cordless 21-in 3-In-1 Self-Propelled Lawn Mower (CMCMW270P2), and I’m here to share my insights.

Initial Impressions and Setup

Right out of the box, the Craftsman mower makes a positive impression. The assembly process is virtually non-existent. The mower arrives mostly assembled; you simply need to lock the handles into place. This is a refreshing experience compared to the often complex setup of other mowers. The mower includes two 5.0Ah batteries, a charger, and all necessary attachments for mulching, bagging, and side discharging, making it a comprehensive package.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things I noticed is the mower’s lightweight design. It’s easy to maneuver, which is a significant advantage for anyone who might find heavier mowers cumbersome. The 21-inch metal deck adds a layer of durability, giving the impression that the mower can withstand frequent use. The single lever height adjustment is another well-thought-out feature, allowing for easy changes to the cutting height ranging from 2 inches to 3.6 inches.

However, the build quality does have its downsides. While lightweight, the mower can sometimes feel a bit flimsy, especially when tackling thicker or taller grass. The self-propulsion feature is handy but does seem to drain the battery faster than expected, which brings me to the next critical aspect: battery life.

Battery Life and Performance

The Craftsman mower is powered by a 60V MAX Lithium-Ion battery system, and it includes two batteries, which is a plus. Charging the batteries takes about 3 hours, which is relatively quick. However, the run time can be a limiting factor. On a full charge, I found the mower operates for about 50 minutes under normal conditions. This can be sufficient for smaller yards, but if you have a medium to large yard, you might find yourself needing to recharge midway through your mowing session.

In terms of cutting performance, the mower does an admirable job on short to moderately tall grass. It cuts cleanly and leaves a tidy finish. The variable speed self-drive mechanism is smooth and allows for comfortable operation. However, the mower struggles with very tall or thick grass, often requiring multiple passes to achieve a clean cut. Additionally, the lack of strong suction means it occasionally leaves patches of uncut grass, especially if the grass is long.

Usability and Features

The Craftsman mower excels in user-friendly features. The vertical folding position for storage is incredibly convenient, especially for those with limited space in their garage or shed. The mower is also impressively quiet, making it possible to mow early in the morning or late in the evening without disturbing neighbors.

The mulching, bagging, and side discharge options offer flexibility depending on your lawn care needs. I particularly appreciated the bagging option, which is easy to attach and detach, making yard cleanup straightforward. However, one downside is the absence of a side discharge chute, which some users might find limiting.

Reliability and Customer Support

During my time using the mower, I did encounter a few hiccups. The self-propulsion feature, while useful, occasionally caused the mower to shut off unexpectedly when disengaged. This issue can be frustrating, especially if you’re in the middle of a mowing session. However, on the upside, Craftsman’s customer support is responsive. Their four-year limited warranty is also reassuring, providing peace of mind in case of any defects or issues.

Final Thoughts

The Craftsman Cordless 21-in 3-In-1 Self-Propelled Lawn Mower is a solid choice for those looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use mower with decent performance. It’s particularly well-suited for small to medium-sized yards where the battery life and cutting capacity are less likely to be an issue. The convenience of cordless operation, coupled with the quiet motor and user-friendly features, makes it an attractive option for anyone tired of dealing with gas and oil.

However, if you have a larger yard or often deal with very thick or tall grass, you might find the battery life and cutting power inadequate. The build could also be sturdier, given that frequent mowing on tough terrain can reveal its limitations.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Craftsman mower for those with smaller lawns and for users who value ease of use and quiet operation over raw power and extended run time. For more demanding mowing needs, you might have to look at higher-end models or consider sticking with gas-powered options to ensure consistent performance.