Top 12 Best Craftsman Drills: Power Tools That Get the Job Done

A drill is a crucial tool for any home or professional workshop, and the Craftsman Drill delivers exceptional performance and durability. Our comprehensive review compares the most popular drills in the Craftsman lineup, helping you choose the right tool for your projects.

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Reviews

Craftsman CMCK220D2 V20 Cordless Drill Kit

This USA-made brushless combo kit delivers impressive power and longevity with its 20V MAX XR batteries providing up to 60% more runtime than traditional models. The included hammer drill and impact driver tackle tough jobs with ease, featuring durable metal chucks and LED work lights for clear visibility. Both tools handle heavy-duty tasks while remaining surprisingly lightweight and comfortable to use.

Craftsman V20 1/2 in. Brushless Cordless Drill Kit

Craftsman's V20 brushless drill brings serious power to the job with its 1/2-inch chuck that handles everything from light crafts to heavy-duty construction. The smart brushless motor gives you up to 25% more runtime than old-fashioned brushed motors, while the two-speed gearbox keeps your work comfortable with both high speed for quick drilling and low-speed torque for tough screw jobs. The ratcheting chuck grips bits perfectly, and the LED light helps you see what you're doing in dark spaces.

Craftsman V20* Brushless Hammer Drill

This powerful brushless hammer drill combines professional-grade torque with remarkable precision, effortlessly handling everything from tough masonry to heavy-duty construction tasks. At just 2.5 pounds, the well-balanced tool maintains impressive heft while remaining surprisingly nimble, thanks to its 1900 RPM motor and 15 clutch settings that adapt to various materials. The LED work light automatically activates when you grab the trigger, providing hands-free illumination that stays on for 20 seconds after release, ensuring clear visibility throughout your project.

Craftsman V20 20-Volt Brushless Drill

This powerful cordless drill combines 20-volt performance with two included batteries, giving you plenty of juice for your projects. The 1/2-inch keyless chuck makes quick work of bit changes, while the LED light helps you see clearly in dark corners. At just 2.57 pounds, it's surprisingly light for its class, and the 2-speed gearbox lets you tackle everything from everyday nails to serious fastening jobs. The included soft bag keeps the whole package handy, whether you're working in your garage or on a DIY weekend project.

Craftsman 2-Tool Combo Kit

If you're a DIYer tackling home improvement projects, this cordless combo kit will handle your drilling and fastening needs with its powerful 280 UWO motor and 1,460 in-lbs torque impact driver. The intuitive one-handed bit change system keeps you productive, while the LED lights enhance visibility in your workspace. Whether you're hanging cabinets or building a deck, these tools pack professional-grade performance into a lightweight package designed for all-day comfort.

Craftsman V20 RP Cordless Hammer Drill

This cordless hammer drill packs impressive punch for its size, thanks to its 20-volt brushless motor that effortlessly handles both drilling and hammering tasks. The keyless 1/2-inch chuck makes bit changes a breeze, while the 2-speed gearbox adapts smoothly to whatever job you're tackling. Whether you're working in the dark or just need that extra bit of visibility, the built-in LED light keeps you well-lit and efficient.

Craftsman CMCD700D1 20V Drill Driver

Craftsman's 20V drill driver packs serious power into a lightweight package, delivering 280 units of measured power through its 1/2-inch keyless chuck. The dual-speed gearbox and LED work light make it a versatile addition to any tool collection, while the long-lasting lithium-ion battery keeps you working without interruptions.

Craftsman 20-Volt Max-Amp Cordless Hammer Drill

Craftsman's 20-Volt hammer drill has earned a solid reputation among users for its robust performance and practical design features like a 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck and two-speed gearbox. The LED light enhances visibility during darker tasks, while the included (2) 2Ah batteries provide sufficient runtime for most jobs. While some users have experienced issues with charging and included accessories, many praise its durability and versatility for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

Craftsman CMCD720D2 Cordless Drill/Driver

Craftsman has raised the bar with their CMCD720D2, combining American craftsmanship with global materials in Fort Mill, South Carolina. This brushless motor delivers unprecedented runtime and speed, selectable between 600 and 2,100 RPM, while its keyless 1/2-inch chuck and built-in LED light make it a practical choice for both daylight and dark environments. Users appreciate its compact design and reliable performance in various applications, from woodworking to metal fastening.

Craftsman 7.0 Amp Drill/Driver

This powerful corded drill combines 7.0 amps of torque with a keyless chuck for quick bit changes and a variable speed trigger for precise control. Whether you're drilling into wood, metal, or masonry, the 2,500 RPM performance delivers consistent results. With a slim 9.7-inch length and lightweight design, it's comfortable to use for extended periods, making it a reliable choice for both professional and DIY projects.

Craftsman 1/2-Inch Hammer Drill

This corded hammer drill packs plenty of power for tough jobs, thanks to its 7.0 AMP motor and variable speed trigger that lets you control the drill's 52,700 BPM exactly how you need it. The keyed chuck grips your bits firmly so nothing slips during your project, and the lock-on trigger means you can keep drilling without constantly readjusting. While it's built for serious work, some users have noticed it gets pretty warm during extended use, so giving it a rest between holes helps keep things running smoothly.

Craftsman 1/2 Inch v20 Drill/Driver Kit

This versatile drill driver handles both light and heavy-duty tasks with its 2-speed gearbox, and its keyless chuck makes bit changes quick and simple. The LED light helps you see clearly in dark work areas, while the powerful 20V battery provides plenty of runtime for your projects. Whether you're nailing together a DIY project or precision-drilling intricate designs, this tool gets the job done efficiently.

Buyer's Guide

A Craftsman drill is a versatile power tool that combines durability with precise performance. Understanding the key features and considerations will help you select the right drill for your needs.

Power Source Options

Choose between corded and cordless drills based on your work requirements. Corded drills offer consistent power without recharge time but require access to an electrical source. Cordless drills provide greater mobility with various battery options, allowing up to 20+ drill bits to be used before recharging.

Key Features to Consider

Look for a drill with a variable speed setting and torque control to accommodate different types of materials and bit sizes. Essential safety features include a keyed chisel grip, ergonomic handle, and adjustable kickback guard. The drill's build quality, such as a sealed motor and sturdy housing, indicates durability for both home and professional use.

Drill & Driver Combinations

Combination drills that can switch between drilling and driving functions provide the most versatility. Check if the tool accepts interchangeable chucks and bits for increased compatibility. The drill's size and weight should match your comfort level, with cordless models typically ranging from 3.6V to 20V for extended runtime.

Build Quality and Warranty

Look for drills with hardened gears and sealed motors for longevity. Companies that offer comprehensive warranties (often 3 years or more) and replaceable parts typically back their products with confidence. Consider purchasing from authorized dealers or official online stores to ensure legitimate warranties.

FAQ

What makes Craftsman drills stand out?

Craftsman drills offer a combination of durability, precision, and value that makes them a popular choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. These drills are built to handle the rigors of daily use with industrial-grade components and robust construction.

What sets Craftsman drills apart is their commitment to performance and longevity. While maintaining high torque for tough drilling tasks, they ensure smooth operation with reliable speed settings for precise work.

Can Craftsman drills handle different types of materials?

Craftsman drills come equipped with interchangeable bit holders that accept standard drill bits, allowing you to tackle various materials from wood to metal. Many models feature adjustable torque settings to maintain consistent drilling depth while protecting your workpiece from damage.

For specialized materials like concrete or masonry, Craftsman offers specific drill bits designed to extend bit life and achieve clean, straight holes. These specialized bits work with your existing drill, making it a versatile tool for any project.

How durable are Craftsman drills?

Craftsman drills are built tough with durable exteriors that resist scratches and dents. Their internal mechanisms use premium materials and engineering to withstand heavy use without wearing out quickly.

The drills feature sealed electrical components that protect against dust and water, making them reliable for use in workshops and job sites. Most models come with warranties covering defects in materials and workmanship, giving you peace of mind about their longevity.

What safety features do Craftsman drills have?

Modern Craftsman drills include essential safety features like automatic safety triggers that prevent accidental start-up. Many models also have safety stops that maintain consistent drilling depth, reducing the risk of bit breaking or material damage.

The drills include LED lights that illuminate your work area, especially useful for tasks in confined spaces. They also feature ergonomic grips that reduce hand fatigue during extended use and protect against slippage.

What's the difference between variable speed and torque-controlled drills?

Variable speed drills allow you to adjust the rotational speed based on your specific task, giving you control over drill bit performance for different materials. This feature is ideal for precise work where bit RPM needs to be managed carefully.

Torque-controlled drills, on the other hand, automatically adjust their speed based on the resistance encountered when drilling. This prevents bit slip and damage to your workpiece by maintaining constant torque output regardless of material hardness.

How do Craftsman drills compare to similar tools in the market?

Craftsman drills generally offer superior durability and feature sets compared to cheaper alternatives while maintaining reasonable pricing. Their modular design allows easy bit changes, and many models include multiple speed settings for versatile use.

While professional-grade drills might have more advanced features like wireless connectivity or built-in screens, Craftsman drills excel at providing essential functionality with reliable performance. The balance of power, speed, and control makes them competitive with higher-end models in terms of overall value.

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