If you work in construction, engineering, or architecture, you already know that not every tool on the shelf is worth your paycheck. However, when it comes to certain Craftsman tools like the 20V Max cordless drill and the 450-Piece Mechanic’s Tool Set, spending a little extra pays off in time saved and frustration avoided.
We dug into reviews, trades forums, and field-tested feedback to find the seven Craftsman tools worth the money. Whether you’re upgrading your drill, organizing your truck, or replacing that wobbly old torque wrench, these are the tools that hold up.
Which Craftsman tools are worth it?
1. Craftsman V20 1/2-In. Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
| Pros | Cons |
| – Long battery life with consistent torque – Lightweight and well-balanced for overhead use – Comes with charger and battery | – Only one battery included in base kit – Not ideal for masonry or heavy-duty fastening |
Key features
- 280 UWO motor for efficient power output
- 2-speed gearbox for speed or torque preference
- Built-in LED for low-light spaces
- Compatible with all V20 batteries
Where to buy: Craftsman | Amazon
This Craftsman drill/driver kit gets high marks for power, balance, and long-lasting battery life. With a 2-speed gearbox and 280 UWO (unit watts out), it’s strong enough for most jobsite drilling tasks. The included 20V MAX lithium-ion battery charges fast and holds power for hours of work. It also comes with a handy carrying bag and bit storage. The chuck is made of plastic, not metal, but it still holds securely and resists wobble. This is a great budget pick for many tradespeople starting out.
Best for: Residential electricians, HVAC techs, and finish carpenters
2. Craftsman V20 Cordless Jigsaw
| Pros | Cons |
| – Great control with variable-speed trigger – Quick blade swaps with tool-free system – Smooth cuts with minimal vibration | – Battery not included – Lacks orbital action found in higher-end models |
Key features
- Up to 2,500 SPM
- Contoured over-molded handle
- Beveling shoe (up to 45 degrees)
- Accepts both T- and U-shank blades
- LED light
Where to buy: Craftsman | Ace Hardware
This cordless jigsaw is easily one of the best Craftsman tools worth the money and sleeper hit: precise, compact, and surprisingly powerful. The three orbital settings and variable speed trigger allow for aggressive or fine cuts depending on the material. It’s perfect for finishing carpenters or anyone doing curved cuts in plywood, plastic, or metal. The LED light and dust blower help maintain cut line visibility, which is essential for precision. Battery life is solid, but heavier-duty users may want to pair it with a 4.0Ah pack. For trim jobs or cabinet work, it’s an efficient, well-balanced saw that gets overlooked too often.
Best for: Remodelers, finish carpenters, cabinet installers
3. Craftsman 450-Piece Mechanic’s Tool Set
| Pros | Cons |
| – Covers nearly every socket and wrench size – Solid chrome finish, easy to clean – Comes in a stackable, labeled case | – Not ideal for portability due to size |
Key features
- 3 ratchets and 191 sockets
- Includes SAE & metric
- Durable blow-molded case
- Quick-release ratchets
- Lifetime warranty
Whether you’re doing plumbing, assembling heavy equipment, working on your truck, or just handling shop maintenance, this set gives you everything in one go. It includes three ratchets, dozens of deep and shallow sockets in SAE and metric sizes, hex keys, nut drivers, and a wide range of bits. The case isn’t tiny, but it’s far more efficient than piecing together a dozen smaller kits over time. Each tool is made with Craftsman’s polished chrome finish, so they’re easy to wipe clean and won’t rust out on you after a few seasons in the garage. Organization is straightforward, and socket sizes are stamped clearly to keep you from digging during high-pressure repairs. This pick is a no brainer and one of the most comprehensive sets on the market.
Best for: Fleet mechanics, maintenance crews, general contractors.
4. Craftsman V20 Oscillating Tool
| Pros | Cons |
| – Quick-change blade system – Feels balanced in hand – Good performance on drywall and trim | – Louder than some brands – No case included |
Key features
- 3-speed selector
- LED light
- Tool-free accessory change
- Compatible with all V20 batteries
- Includes wood blade and sanding pad
Where to buy: Craftsman | Lowe’s
This multitool handles doorjamb cuts, grout removal, outlet box trimming, and flush cuts with ease. The variable-speed trigger gives you solid control over delicate or aggressive cuts, and blade swaps are quick thanks to the tool-free accessory clamp. It shines in punch list work and quick fixes around the job site where dragging a cord isn’t worth the hassle. One Lowe’s reviewer wrote, “Ripped through my punch list in one afternoon,” highlighting how it holds up for real-world contractor use. Battery life is decent with a 2.0Ah pack, though users working long hours might want a backup on hand. Best for finish carpenters, remodelers, or electricians who want a dependable all-rounder without overspending.
Best for: Electricians, drywall finishers, flooring installers
5. Craftsman 3/8-In. Drive Torque Wrench
| Pros | Cons |
| – Accurate and easy to adjust – Click-type design gives clear feedback – Durable all-metal build with knurled grip | – Storage case feels flimsy – Not designed for extremely high-torque jobs |
Key features
- 20–100 ft-lbs range
- +/- 4% accuracy
- Reversible ratchet head
- Meets ANSI standards
- Comes with calibration certificate
Where to buy: Amazon | Craftsman
Whether you’re working on HVAC installs or fine-tuning automotive repairs, this torque wrench is precise and reliable. The click-style feedback is firm and easy to feel, and it doesn’t slip under pressure. One user review summed it up perfectly: “Does exactly what a torque wrench should do without costing a fortune.” The adjustable scale is easy to read, and the knurled handle provides a non-slip grip even when your hands are oily. It’s ideal for pros who need consistent torque readings without shelling out.
Best for: Automotive techs, HVAC pros, equipment installers.
6. Craftsman V20 Random Orbit Sander
| Pros | Cons |
| – Excellent dust collection – Comfortable grip for long use – Smooth and consistent sanding | – Shorter runtime with 2.0Ah battery – Doesn’t come with carrying case |
Key features
- 12,000 OPM motor
- Dust-sealed power switch
- Hook-and-loop pad
- Integrated dust bag
- Compact and lightweight (2.8 lbs)
Where to buy: Zoro | Craftsman
This sander is ideal for trim jobs, furniture refinishing, or prepping drywall patches. It’s cordless, quiet, and very easy to control. The dust collection is better than expected, even without a shop vac. A Home Depot reviewer said, “Used this for refinishing a staircase—no clogging, no mess, and great finish quality.” It runs at 12,000 OPM, which is plenty for removing paint, smoothing filler, or sanding cabinetry between coats. While the 2.0Ah battery gives you about 20–30 minutes of runtime, upgrading to a 4.0Ah extends your work sessions significantly. This Craftsman tool is worth the money if you’re looking for something reliable with great finishing quality.
Best for: Cabinetmakers, painters, remodelers.
7. Craftsman 6-Gallon Pancake Air Compressor
| Pros | Cons |
| – Fills fast and recovers quickly – Lightweight and easy to carry – Low maintenance | – Louder than higher-end models – Not ideal for high-CFM tools |
Key features
- Max PSI: 150
- 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI
- Includes 13-piece accessory kit
- Rubber feet for stability
- Weighs just 30 lbs
Where to buy: Craftsman | Amazon
For trim nailers, tire inflation, or light-duty framing guns, this air compressor punches above its price. The build is sturdy, and it refills faster than you’d expect. It’s loud—but that’s normal for pancake styles. A reviewer noted, “It’s my go-to for quick jobs and doesn’t quit on cold mornings.” The included 13-piece accessory kit covers most inflation or blow-off needs right out of the box. It’s not ideal for high-CFM tools, but it’s more than enough for baseboard installs, roofing touch-ups, or garage work.
Best for: Trim carpenters, jobsite finishers, light framing crews.
Bottom line
Whether you’re trimming baseboards, rewiring a panel, or fixing up a backhoe, having the right tool saves time and headaches. Craftsman’s lineup delivers pro-level performance where it counts, especially for electricians, carpenters, mechanics, and heavy equipment techs. If this roundup of Craftsman tools worth the money helped you figure out whether or not to buy Craftsman tools, we have more for you. Check out our other gear guides on Makita, Ryobi, and jobsite must-haves to see how they stack up.
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