Craftsman Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool

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WOOD magazine rating

Short on power and speed

2.5

out of 5

Average reader rating

2.3

out of 5

Brand:

Craftsman

Model:

17438

Price:

$100

Description

This versatile, 12 volt Multi-tool by Craftsman is ideal for cutting, scraping, sanding, grinding, removing grout and more. With a compact, ergonomic design and multiple blade positions, not only is this tool convenient, but it makes general tasks faster and easier to complete.

* Weight: 5 lbs.
* Charge Cycle: 30 minutes
* Cell Type: Lithium-Ion
* Voltage: 12.0
* Charge Indicator: LED
* Speed Range: 15,000 OPM
* Tasklight: Yes
* Includes: Cordless Multi-Tool, 12V battery, 30-minute quick charger, accessory mount, 6 accessory attachments, carrying case

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WOOD magazine review

Short on power and speed

Reviewed by: WOOD Magazine

Review Summary

This cordless tool comes with only one 12-volt battery and requires 45 minutes to charge it, so you could be waiting a while if it runs dead while you need it. On top of that, it's underpowered and runs at 15,000 strokes per minutes, well below the top speed of all competitors. The best part about this tool was the easy on-and-off dust collection attachment, which helped to such up most dust when hooked to a shop vacuum.

Detailed Ratings

2.5

out of 5

Performance

Features

Ease of Use

Value

Reader Reviews

The runt of the litter

Reviewed by: mswoodcraft

Review Summary

The Craftsman multi-tool may appear to be a good value, in light of the other tools in the Craftsman lineup which share similar battery cells. In practice the cross-section of this tool is large. Translated, that means that small hands may have difficulty in operation. And it runs at 3/4 the oscillation speed of other tools, meaning that it takes longer to cut and requires more effort. This is one tool that's on the SKIP IT list.

Detailed Ratings

2.3

out of 5

Performance

Features

Ease of Use

Value

Monumental Disappointment

Reviewed by: jtutini

Review Summary

Craftsman missed the mark on this one. Purchased it to shorten door jambs for the installation of wood flooring. It did the job of cutting wood and occasional nail. I found the vibration level to be ok the overall use was easy enough but the time of battery life was horrid. 3" jambs would require a recharge. If they added a power cord "plug in" that could be swapped with the battery I would add one star to the posted ratings.

Detailed Ratings

2.3

out of 5

Performance

Features

Ease of Use

Value

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Craftsman Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool

Short on power and speed

Description