Craftsman Cordless Brushless 1/2-in Drill/Driver Kit

When I first got my hands on the Craftsman Cordless Brushless 1/2-in Drill/Driver Kit (model CMCD710C2), I was immediately struck by its solid build and ergonomic design. This drill/driver kit is clearly designed with both professional and DIY enthusiasts in mind, offering a blend of power, durability, and convenience that is hard to overlook.

The standout feature of this drill is its brushless motor. Compared to brushed motors, brushless motors are known for their efficiency and longevity. In my experience, this translates to longer runtime and less frequent maintenance, which is a huge plus for anyone who uses their drill regularly. The motor delivers impressive power, making it capable of tackling a variety of drilling and fastening tasks with ease. Whether you're working with wood, metal, or other materials, the Craftsman drill doesn't shy away from the challenge.

One of the first projects I used this drill for was a fence installation in my backyard. This task involved driving numerous 3-inch screws through 2x4s, and I was pleasantly surprised by how effortlessly the drill managed the job. The two-speed gearbox, offering speeds of 0-600 and 0-1,900 RPM, provides great versatility. The lower speed is perfect for precision work, while the higher speed is excellent for more demanding tasks.

Battery life is another area where this drill shines. The kit includes two 20V MAX Lithium Ion batteries, each with a capacity of 1.5 Ah. During my fence project, I found that a single battery lasted almost two full days of intermittent use before needing a recharge. This is a significant improvement over my previous drills, where I would often find myself swapping out batteries multiple times a day. The inclusion of a second battery means you can keep one charging while using the other, minimizing downtime and keeping your projects moving forward.

The drill also features a 1/2-inch keyless chuck, which makes changing bits quick and easy. This is particularly useful when you're working on projects that require multiple bit changes. The chuck holds bits securely, and I never experienced any slipping, even under heavy use. Additionally, the LED light is a thoughtful addition, providing ample illumination in dark or confined spaces. This feature came in handy more than once, especially when working in my basement or under cabinets.

Ergonomically, the Craftsman drill is well-balanced and comfortable to hold. The grip is designed to reduce fatigue, which is important during extended use. The overall weight of the drill, at 6.0 lbs, is manageable and doesn't feel cumbersome. This balance and weight distribution make it easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces.

Durability is another strong point. Over the past few months, I've used this drill for various projects, including building a deck, installing shelves, and even some light automotive work. Throughout all these tasks, the drill has held up remarkably well. It shows no signs of wear and tear, and the performance remains consistent. Craftsman tools have a reputation for durability, and this drill is no exception.

One minor drawback I noticed is that the gear selector didn't move as smoothly as I would have liked. It's a small issue and doesn't affect the overall performance, but it's something to be aware of. Additionally, the labels on the drill are printed rather than engraved, which might lead to them wearing off over time. However, these are relatively minor concerns in the grand scheme of things.

In terms of value for money, the Craftsman Cordless Brushless Drill/Driver Kit is hard to beat. It offers a robust set of features at a competitive price point. The inclusion of two batteries, a charger, and a storage bag adds to the overall value, making it a comprehensive kit that covers all the bases.

In conclusion, I would highly recommend the Craftsman Cordless Brushless 1/2-in Drill/Driver Kit to anyone in need of a reliable and powerful drill. Its brushless motor, impressive battery life, and durable construction make it a versatile tool suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether you're a professional contractor or a weekend DIY warrior, this drill is a worthy addition to your toolkit. The minor issues with the gear selector and label durability are far outweighed by the drill's overall performance and value. If you're in the market for a new drill, the Craftsman CMCD710C2 is definitely worth considering.