Craftsman Cordless Pole Chainsaw

One of the most essential tools for any homeowner or DIY enthusiast who needs to manage tree branches and overgrown shrubbery is a reliable pole chainsaw. The Craftsman Cordless Pole Chainsaw, model CMCCSP20B, offers a battery-powered solution that promises convenience and efficiency. In my experience, using this tool provided a mixed bag of results, with some aspects excelling and others falling short.

First Impressions and Setup

Setting up the Craftsman pole chainsaw was straightforward. The assembly process took me less than five minutes, thanks to the clear instructions and simple design. However, I was initially puzzled by the absence of an oil reservoir. Instead, the saw comes with a small bottle for manually lubricating the chain. While this makes the tool lighter, it also means you need to remember to bring the oil bottle with you, which can be somewhat inconvenient.

Performance and Reach

One of the standout features of this pole chainsaw is its maximum reach of 14 feet. This reach is incredibly useful for trimming higher branches without needing a ladder. The pole itself is lightweight and generally easy to maneuver, although it does feel a bit wobbly when fully extended. The angled head and blade design allow for more precise cuts, which is particularly useful when dealing with smaller branches.

Cutting Power and Battery Life

In terms of cutting power, the Craftsman pole chainsaw is quite effective for a battery-operated tool. It easily handled branches up to 4 inches in diameter. However, it struggled a bit with thicker, more robust branches, requiring a bit more finesse and time to get through. The saw features an 8-inch bar length, which is sufficient for most residential tasks.

Battery life is another strong point. Using a fully charged 20V MAX Lithium Ion battery, I was able to work for several hours without needing a recharge. The absence of an auto-oiler also contributed to a longer operating time since the tool is lighter and less complex. Just remember to manually oil the blade periodically to keep it running smoothly.

Usability and Comfort

The tool's design emphasizes ease of use. The soft grip on the pole extension makes it comfortable to handle, even during extended use. The integrated hook is a thoughtful addition, allowing for easy storage when not in use. However, the pole's flexibility can make it challenging to control, particularly when using the full extension. This is something to keep in mind if you have a lot of high branches to trim.

Build Quality and Durability

While the Craftsman pole chainsaw performs well in many areas, its build quality leaves something to be desired. The tool feels somewhat flimsy, especially at full extension. This lack of sturdiness can be concerning, particularly when dealing with more challenging cutting tasks. Additionally, several users have reported issues with the tool ceasing to function after several months of use. This is a significant drawback for anyone looking for a long-term investment.

Battery Compatibility

One of the more frustrating aspects of this tool is its battery compatibility. While it uses Craftsman’s 20V MAX Lithium Ion batteries, these are not interchangeable with 20V batteries from other brands like Porter Cable or Black & Decker. This lack of cross-compatibility can be a hassle if you already own tools from these other brands.

Charging and Maintenance

The charging time for the battery is relatively quick, taking about an hour to reach a full charge. However, some users have reported longer charging times, so this might vary. Maintenance is minimal, but you do need to manually oil the chain, which can be a bit of a chore compared to models with automatic oilers.

Customer Support and Warranty

The tool comes with a 3-year limited warranty, which is reassuring. However, my experience with Craftsman’s customer service was less than satisfactory. When the tool stopped working after several months, I found it difficult to get a timely response from the company. If you encounter issues, be prepared for a potentially frustrating experience trying to get support or a replacement.

Final Thoughts

The Craftsman Cordless Pole Chainsaw offers a mix of convenience and performance, making it a good option for light to moderate yard work. Its impressive reach and battery life make it a useful tool for occasional use. However, the build quality and lack of battery compatibility are significant drawbacks that could be deal-breakers for some.

For those already invested in Craftsman’s V20 battery ecosystem, this tool could be a valuable addition to your collection. Its ease of use and effective cutting power make it suitable for most residential trimming tasks. However, if you need a more robust, durable tool for frequent or heavy-duty use, you might want to consider other options.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Craftsman Cordless Pole Chainsaw for homeowners who need a convenient, battery-powered solution for occasional yard work. Its limitations and potential durability issues mean it’s not the best choice for everyone, but for the right user, it offers good value and performance.