Craftsman Reviews: Are Craftsman Power Tools Good?

For close to 100 years, Craftsman household and power tools have been one of the most trusted brands on the market. But some consumers claim they are simply not made to last the way they once were.

Who Makes Craftsman Power Tools?

Craftsman power tools were originally a Sears house brand sold exclusively through Sears catalogs and in Sears stores. However, following Sears’ 2005 merger with Kmart, the Craftsman brand became available for purchase at Kmart stores and other retailers. Today, Craftsman tools are owned by Stanley Black & Decker, which sells power tools, hardware, and home improvement products.

Are Craftsman Power Tools Guaranteed for Life?

Beginning in 1927, Sears offered a lifetime warranty for Craftsman power tools. In order to take advantage of this warranty, customers did not need to save their original receipt or other proof of purchase. They only needed to bring worn out or broken tools to a local Sears store and the item would be repaired or replaced at no cost.

Over time, the warranty has been altered. In August 2012, the Craftsman lifetime warranty was reduced to 25 years. Additionally, the new warranty terms require consumers to show a receipt proving when the item was purchased. And certain items, including Craftsman’s precision hand tools, have been excluded from the warranty altogether. When it purchased Craftsman power tools, Stanley Black & Decker promised to honor warranties. However, some Craftsman tools now come with labeling limiting the number of tools a customer can have repaired or replaced.

Are Craftsman Power Tools Good?

Craftsman power tools used to be known for their quality, durability, and comprehensive warranty. Many mechanics, construction workers, and hobbyists purchased Craftsman tools because of the brand’s reputation. Before Stanley Black & Decker purchased the brand, consumers reported taking old or broken tools passed down from relatives or friends, and having Sears repair or replace the items without question. In addition to the perception that Craftsman tools would last a lifetime, the brand may have been a convenient choice as Craftsman tools are readily available.

However, numerous consumer posts in online forums indicate the quality of Craftsman power tools may have declined. When comparing tools made by Craftsman and DeWalt, Dewalt is frequently chosen as the winner. DeWalt tools are manufactured in the U.S., while Craftsman tools are produced in China and may use lower-quality materials. While Craftsman tools may be fine for hobbyists and home improvement enthusiasts, DeWalt tools may be better for professionals. Additionally, recent consumer reports found that many consumers who decades ago reported high levels of satisfaction with Craftsman’s warranty and exchange policy are frustrated with getting Craftsman tools repaired or replaced.

Craftsman Tool Reviews

Many Craftsman tool reviews show declining satisfaction with Craftsman power tools. While Craftsman used to be known for durability and value, some consumers claim the tools produced by Craftsman today are subpar and prone to breaking. Consumers complaints on Reddit and other online forums claim that while old Craftsman brand tools lasted decades, their replacements may last only months. With fewer and fewer of Craftsman’s tools covered under the brand’s warranty, purchasing them may not be the safe bet it used to be.

Complaints posted on ConsumerAffairs.com say Craftsman power tool customers have broken, bent and rusted, and when this happens, consumers report difficulty contacting the company to request a replacement. Commonly reported complaints include long hold times, disconnections, or being told a tool is not covered under the warranty. One customer posted that he spent three days attempting to resolve an issue with Craftsman customer service via email and phone calls before being told that his broken tool would not be replaced.

Consumers who have been unable to receive a replacement or reimbursement for broken Craftsman tools may be able to speak with an experienced attorney about their legal options.