10 Best Craftsman Tool Sets of 2023 – Top Picks & Reviews
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The Craftsman brand was founded back in 1927. Since then, Craftsman has become one of the leading providers of tools. As a result, Craftsman has produced a variety of tool sets, making it difficult to decide which one is best for you and your needs.
To help make the process of selecting a Craftsman tool set easier, we compared many of the Craftsman tool sets and selected the best 10 options. In this article, we provide reviews for the 10 best Craftsman tool sets and offer a convenient buyer’s guide at the end. Let’s take a look at what this notable brand has to offer.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2023
| Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
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Best Overall
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Craftsman 50230 Mechanics Tool Set |
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CHECK PRICE |
Best Value
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CRAFTSMAN CMMT99448 Home Tool Ki |
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CHECK PRICE |
Premium Choice
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CRAFTSMAN CMMT12038 Mechanics Tool Kit |
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CHECK PRICE |
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Craftsman 981080001 Mechanic's Tool Set |
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CHECK PRICE | |
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Craftsman 300-Piece Drill and Driving Accessory Kit |
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CHECK PRICE |
The 10 Best Craftsman Tool Sets
1. Craftsman Mechanics Tool Set – Best Overall
One of the best Craftsman tool sets is the Craftsman Mechanic’s Tool Set. In fact, it’s so good that we’ve named it our best overall set. This heavy-duty kit comes with various tools and is easy to grip.
Notably, the Craftsman 50230 is highly durable and versatile. It includes 203 tools, including six wrenches, three ratchets, two extension bars, 116 sockets, and more. All of the tools are made from stainless steel, ensuring they are also durable.
Additionally, the Craftsman 50230 comes with a carrying case that is durable and gripped. The case is made from heavy-duty plastic, which eliminates additional weight and protects the tools within. The case is also easy to carry because the handle is textured for a secure grip.
- A variety of tools included
- Tools made from heavy-duty materials
- Tools suitable for professional use
- Includes a heavy-duty carrying case
- Case includes rubber grip
- Expensive
2. CRAFTSMAN CMMT99448 Home Tool Kit – Best Value
If you are looking for the best Craftsman tool sets for the money, you will be interested in the Craftsman CMMT99448 Home Tool Kit. This kit includes various tools that are helpful for many uses and is budget-friendly, so we have named it our best toolset for the money.
The Craftsman CMMT99448 includes several helpful tools for general use. It includes a slip joint, a groove joint, and long nose pliers. It also includes a fiberglass hammer, a measuring tape, and more.
More so, all of the materials are heavy-duty. They include a fully polished finish with large markings. These features make them both corrosion-resistant and easy to identify the individual tools. They also come with a full lifetime warranty.
The only reason we have ranked the Craftsman CMMT99448 number two on our list, as opposed to number one, is that the tools are unsuitable for mechanical or professional use.
- Versatile
- Several tools included for home use
- Includes the most used tools
- Made from heavy-duty materials
- Corrosion-resistant
- Comes with a full lifetime warranty
- Affordable
- Not suitable for professional or automotive use
3. CRAFTSMAN CMMT12038 Mechanics Tool Kit – Premium Choice
If you are looking for a Craftsman tool set with premium features and tools, you will be interested in the Craftsman CMMT12038 Mechanic’s Tool Kit. This tool set is heavy-duty, includes professional tools, meets or exceeds ASME specifications, and has a price tag to match.
The Craftsman CMMT12038 has 72 tooth ratchets in three drive sizes, six-point sockets, and more. The tools are durable because they have a chrome finish for corrosion resistance. At the same time, they are easy to identify due to their large markings.
Finally, the last notable feature of the Craftsman CMMT12038 is that every tool in the kit meets or exceeds ASME specifications, which are standards that ensure the durability and functionality of mechanical tools.
Beware, however, it is a bit pricey.
- A variety of tools included
- Made from heavy-duty materials
- Heavy-duty toolbox included
- Easy organization
- Meets or exceeds SME specifications
- Expensive
4. Craftsman Mechanic’s Tool Set (981080001)
The next Craftsman kit on our list is the Craftsman Mechanic’s Tool Set (981080001). It has many heavy-duty tools, is easy to transport, and includes a magnetic handle for easy nut or bit installation.
Notably, the Craftsman 981080001 includes 45 tools intended for mechanics. The tools include three quick-release ratchets, six extension bars, 191 sockets, and 16 combination wrenches.
These heavy-duty materials are made from metal with a chrome finish, which makes the tools highly durable and corrosion-resistant, even through heavy wear and tear.
Additionally, the Craftsman 981080001 comes with a convenient toolbox. The toolbox has a gripped handle, making it easy to transport and carry. It also comes with three drawers, ensuring an organized toolbox. However, it is on the heavy side.
- Includes a variety of tools
- Tools are heavy-duty
- Includes a toolbox with drawers
- Toolbox comes with rubber grips
- Heavy
- Door prone to breakage
5. Craftsman 300-Piece Drill and Driving Accessory Kit
Another good Craftsman tool kit to check out is the Craftsman 300-Piece Drill and Driving Accessory Kit. It is specifically designed for drill and driving purposes. It includes various tools related to drilling and driving, is easy to use, and is compact.
The Craftsman 300-piece kit includes popular screwdriver bits and nut driver sizes. It also has a versatile drill bit selection so that you can drill on various materials. Additionally, the Craftsman 300-piece set comes with a quick connector. The connector allows for fast and easy tool changes, which makes the kit usage more helpful and time-efficient.
These features make it an ideal tool set for those needing a drilling and driving accessory kit. We will say that users complained about the shipping box not being protective of the product, so that’s something to watch out for. Additionally, the drill bits are prone to breakage.
- Comes with a variety of tools specifically for drilling
- Includes some of the most popular tools for drilling
- Comes with a quick connector
- Affordable
- Shipping box is not protective
- Drill bits prone to breakage
6. Craftsman 36165 Mechanics Tool Set
The next Craftsman tool set on our list is the Craftsman 65165 Mechanics Tool Set. This tool set is durable and includes tools for mechanics. At the same time, it is more compact than other options, making it a great tool set on the go.
Notably, the Craftsman 65165 includes 165 tools, including 79 six-point sockets, 61 screws and nut driver bits, 14 hex keys, two quick-release ratchets, two extension bars, and more. This variety of tools makes it perfect for mechanics.
At the same time, the Craftsman 65165 Mechanics Tool Set is heavy-duty. It is chrome-plated with a tough cast alloy steel construction. This makes the product rust-resistant and dent-resistant, including the box as well. More so, the product comes with a Craftsman lifetime warranty.
Additionally, the Craftsman 65165 Mechanics Tool Set is helpful for organization purposes. It includes a spot for every tool, ensuring the box stays organized and compact after use. However, it’s a smaller kit than the others Craftsman makes. Users also complained of shipping issues with this product.
- Includes a variety of tools
- Made from heavy-duty materials
- Rust- and dent-resistant
- Spot for every tool
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
- Smaller kit, includes fewer tools
- Shipping difficulties
7. Craftsman 009-38108 Mechanic’s Tool Set
Another great Craftsman tool set is the Craftsman 009-30108 Mechanic’s Tool Set. It’s ideal for mechanics because it includes some of the most essential mechanical tools, is made with durable materials, and is excellent for on-the-go use.
Notably, the Craftsman 009-30108 includes 108 mechanic tool pieces, which include 35 quarter drive tools, 34 ⅜-inch drive tools, 39 specialty tools, and more. It also has a quick-release ratchet, extension breaker bar, and magnetic bit handle.
Additionally, it is made of alloy steel. This material ensures that the tools in the kit are durable and heavy-duty. The steel material makes the tools rust- and dent-resistant, which is helpful for mechanic and heavy-duty purposes.
The Craftsman 009-30108 is also very compact. Since it only includes 108 pieces, it weighs 10.67 pounds, which is much lighter than the other options on this list. However, that does mean that there are fewer pieces than other sets. We had some problems with the case, namely the fact that it’s not molded and the latch had a tendency to break.
- Includes a variety of tools
- Great for medium-use mechanic purposes or personal use
- Made from durable materials
- Compact
- Every tool has a spot in the box
- Includes fewer tools
- Thin socket walls
- Case latches prone to breakage
- Case is not molded
8. Craftsman 21028 Universal Ratcheting Wrench Set
The Craftsman 21028 Universal Ratcheting Wrench Set is another notable Craftsman tool set to consider. It’s made for those who need a variety of wrenches, but it isn’t perfect.
First, the Craftsman 21028 Universal Ratcheting Wrench Set includes seven ratcheting wrenches. The set comes with 5/16, 3/8, 7/16, 1/2, 9/16, 5/8, and 11/16 inch ratcheting wrenches, providing you with several wrench sizes, perfect for nearly every job. The wrenches are highly durable. They are made with an alloy steel construction, preventing rust and corrosion.
However, the kit only comes with wrenches, making it unsuitable for those who need more variety. Additionally, the wrenches often fail to ratchet properly. Although it grips wonderfully, the ratcheting mechanism is faulty.
- Includes 7 ratcheting wrenches
- Made from durable materials
- Does not offer a variety of tool types
- Not suitable for ratcheting despite the name
- Prone to denting when using as a ratcheting wrench
9. Craftsman 12133 Mechanics Tool Set
Another Craftsman tool set to check out is the Craftsman 12133 Mechanic’s Tool Set. This tool set comes with a variety of tools, features a large toolbox, and is compact. With that being said, there are more cons to this product than pros.
The Craftsman 12133 Mechanics Tool Set has 207 mechanical tools, including 146 sockets, three quick-release ratchets, 12 combination wrenches, and 109 other specialty tools. All the tools are made with an alloyed steel construction, guaranteeing durability. The set also comes with a lifetime warranty.
More so, the Craftsman 12133 Mechanics Tool Set features a toolbox with three drawers, which toolbox allows you to organize and store your tools safely and efficiently.
However, the Craftsman 12133 Mechanics Tool Set comes with downsides as well. First and foremost, it is one of the most expensive options on our list despite being middle-sized and offering standard tools. Additionally, this toolbox is made from plastic, which is not durable or suitable for holding steel tools.
- Includes a variety of tools
- Features a 3-drawer toolbox
- Expensive
- Price too steep for tools and features
- Toolbox made from plastic
- Tools too heavy for plastic box
10. Craftsman 41283 Evolv Homeowner Tool Set
Finally, the last Craftsman kit on our list is the Craftsman 41283 Evolv Homeowner Tool Set. The tools are ideal for home improvement or DIY work. It includes drive sockets, a drive ratchet handle, and a drive extension bar.
Unfortunately, the Craftsman 41283 Evolv Homeowner Tool Set has several downsides. Most notably, the toolset is stored in a bag. Although bags are convenient for portability, they do not offer protection for the tools, which is a must for toolkits. More so, this bag makes it impossible actually to organize your tools.
Additionally, the tools within the Craftsman 41283 Evolv Homeowner Tool Set are unsuitable for heavy use. Instead, they are only suitable for light tasks, such as DIY jobs or home repairs. You should not use this kit for mechanical or professional work.
- Includes a variety of tools for home improvement purposes
- Not suitable for professional use
- Does not come with a toolbox
- Toolbag offers no organization or protection for tools
Buyer’s Guide – Choosing the Best Craftsman Tool Set
Factors To Consider When Buying A Craftsman Tool Set
Here are factors to consider when buying a Craftsman tool set. They will help you to determine the best toolset based on your needs and preferences.
1. Tools Included In The Set
The most important factor to consider when selecting a Craftsman tool set is the tools included in the set. You want to select a tool set with various tools, including those you use most frequently.
Depending on your preferences, you can select a kit with multiple tools or one with specific types of tools, such as ratchets or sockets.
2. Toolbox
The toolbox is the second factor to consider when selecting a Craftsman tool set. The toolbox will provide a home for all your tools, keeping them safe and organized. Finding a set that comes with a durable, high-quality, and effective toolbox is vital. For additional security, you might want to consider toolboxes with drawers, steel hinges, or multiple clasps.
3. Durability
Another factor to consider when buying a Craftsman tool set is the durability of both the tools and the toolbox. Since you will use your Craftsman tool set for heavy-duty jobs, it must withstand the elements and general wear and tear. Look for materials such as stainless steel to ensure highly durable materials.
4. Grip
Finally, the grip is the last factor to consider when selecting a Craftsman tool set. The grip is how easily the tools and toolbox connect to your hand. Typically, the grip will be coated with rubber or plastic in a knurled or diamond pattern. Select a comfortable and effective grip so you can use your tools and transport your box safely and efficiently.
Why You Should Buy A Craftsman Tool Set
If you are still unsure about whether you should buy a Craftsman tool set, here are a few reasons why you might buy a new set:
- Time Efficient: Craftsman tool sets will save you time during your work since all the tools and needed features are included in a compact box.
- Better Performance: Craftsman tool sets come with high-quality tools, which will allow you to accomplish your tasks better.
- Investment: Since Craftsman tool sets are made with durable materials, they are an investment for the future. This toolkit will serve you for many years.
- Attractive: Craftsman tools sets include matching tools and a matching box. Although matching tools do not affect functionality, they are more attractive
How To Care For Your Craftsman Tool Set
After you purchase a Craftsman tool set, it is important to care for them properly. Here is how to take care of your tools and kit:
- Store Your Tools Properly: Make sure to store your tools properly. If they came in the set, store them in the set. If you have additional tools, consider putting them in the toolbox or hanging them on a pegboard.
- Place Set In Dry Area: Store your set in a dry area. This will ensure the longevity of your tools.
- Hang Garden Tools: Although storing your garden tools with your other tools may be tempting, hang them to dry. If you set them on the floor or with the other tools, moisture can destroy the gardening and other tools.
- Store Power Tools In Original Case: Store your power tools in their original cases, not in your tool set or lying around your garage or workstation.
- Clean Tools After Every Use: Before storing your tools, make sure to clean them after every use to prevent buildup or rust.
- Inspect And Repair Your Tools: After every use, inspect your tools and repair them when needed. Inspecting them frequently will ensure that you correct easy fixes before they turn into permanent damage.
Conclusion
After considering our reviews and buyer’s guide, we found the best Craftsman tool set to be the Craftsman 50230 Mechanics Tool Set. This tool set includes several heavy-duty tools, a convenient toolbox, and a grip handle, making it our best overall pick.
If you want something more budget-friendly, we recommend the Craftsman CMMT99448 Home Tool Kit. It includes a variety of tools suitable for personal and professional use. It is also made from heavy-duty materials and comes with a lifetime warranty, which is why it is our best-value pick.
We hope that these reviews and buyer’s guide have made the process of selecting the best Craftsman tool set easier and more hassle-free.
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