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Craftsman Mid Torque Impact Wrenches: A Comprehensive Review
Craftsman tools have been synonymous with the do-it-yourself guy, and the latest offering, the Craftsman CMCF921 Mid Torque Impact Wrench, lives up to that reputation. It is designed for the shade tree mechanic who wants to get things done without breaking the bank. In this comprehensive review, we’ll take a closer look at the new RP model, its runtime and performance, and how it stacks up against other popular impact wrenches on the market.
Introducing the Craftsman CMCF921 Mid Torque Impact Wrench
The new RP model is the CMCF921, which boasts 275 foot-pounds of torque fastening. It is nearly identical to the CMCF920 in terms of look, feel, and specs. However, the CMCF921 is part of Craftsman’s runtime and performance line, designed to provide a little more runtime.
At around $120, the CMCF921 is an affordable option for the DIY mechanic, making it an interesting choice compared to pricier options like the Milwaukee Mid Torque or Metabo HPT.
A Hands-On Test of the Craftsman CMCF921
The perfect test for this impact wrench is a simple tire rotation, as lug nuts often need to be removed and tightened to various torque levels. We start with a 4 amp hour battery and work our way up to see how the CMCF921 performs in removing and tightening lug nuts.
Impressively, the Craftsman CMCF921 is able to remove lug nuts tightened to around 200 foot-pounds with ease, even with only a 2 amp hour battery. However, for optimal performance, we recommend using at least a 4 or 6 amp hour battery when working on more demanding jobs.
The variable speed trigger switch allows you to easily toggle between speed settings, and the ergonomic grip is comfortable for those with larger hands. The CMCF921 also features a hog ring that some users have found challenging to align, but this largely depends on whether you are using impact-rated sockets or not.
Comparing the Craftsman CMCF921 to Other Impact Wrenches
In terms of size and weight, the Craftsman CMCF921 is quite similar to the Milwaukee Mid Torque and Metabo HPT options. However, there is a notable difference in price, with the Craftsman being the most affordable option among the three.
While the Craftsman may not be the highest performing impact wrench on the market, it is certainly capable of tackling a wide range of DIY tasks. For its price, the CMCF921 offers great value for the casual user who simply needs a reliable and efficient tool to get the job done.
Final Thoughts on the Craftsman CMCF921 Mid Torque Impact Wrench
The Craftsman CMCF921 Mid Torque Impact Wrench is an excellent choice for the DIY mechanic who needs a reliable and affordable tool for various tasks, such as tire rotations and light-duty suspension work. Using the right battery and impact-rated sockets will make a world of difference in performance, ensuring you get the most out of this versatile device.
Although it may not be the best-performing or highest-priced impact wrench on the market, the Craftsman CMCF921 is an excellent option for those looking for a dependable, affordable, and efficient tool.
Let us know your thoughts on the Craftsman CMCF921 Mid Torque Impact Wrench in the comments below. Give this article a like and subscribe to our channel for more insightful reviews. Have a great day!
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I do a lot of diy stuff…i have been wanting to buy a high torque craftsman for a while now, but recently found a deal on this mid torque unit that i don't want to pass up. After watching your video about it (and a couple other videos) i have a feeling if i get this mid tq one, i might never get around to buying the high tq because this thing might do everything i need a 1/2" impact for. I guess we will find out…and, being a guy, if i end up with both i certainly won't mind 😊
Please do test showing differences for tools with the different Craftsman batteries you own.
So I started to do mechanic work including suspension work etc… what do you recommend that is economical?
Wow. I also had a minivan with way too much torque on one wheel, leading me here.
I broke two impact tools and even jumping up and down on the breaker bar with 300 pounds wasn’t doing it without a torch squelched with WD-40.
Even once off, several lug nuts were too damaged to hand-thread (needed one to hold the rotor). During reassembly the threads sheared off the stud with near zero torque, coming off so clean and effortlessly that they looked like a perfect spring/coil!
It was clearly because someone tightened them too much (not rust). It was the only shiny wheel hub and the wheel had junkyard numbers written on it. There was body damage around the fender so it was clearly a new wheel hub and junkyard rim grossly overtightened by someone who shouldn’t be allowed near a high-torque tool.
Now I just want something high-torque that might’ve saved me some trouble that fateful day so I never have to deal with anything like this again.
Good review. Just bought that Craftsman today. Was worried if they would be able to take off the lug nuts. Doing a rear break job on my car tomorrow. Look like I’ll be good.
The 9AH power battery is the way to go if you want to use its full capabilities.
Great test, I'm just starting to look at impact guns for the track.
I appreciate the review on the Craftsman tool. Since I moved away from the city to the country my drive time is 1/2hr drive to a Les Schwab. Before that I was 5min from my local Les Schwab. So, I want to do my own tire rotations on my truck. I already have too many battery tools of different brand's. I want to stick with Craftsman. I have a Craftsman brad nailer I have a Kobalt cordless mower, Ryobi cordless weed wacker) so I want to stick to Craftsman tools if possible. Thank you again.
i have like 6 craftsmen v20 battery.. maybe i will order this one.
What is your opinion on hog ring vs pin detent.
Ive been using the older version of the 1/2” Craftsman professionally for quite a while, and its really impressed me, along with all the other V20 tools I use at work on a regular basis, they get the job done, and even with all the abuse i throw at them, i haven’t had a single issue out of any of them. I cant wait to get my hands on the new Craftsman Brushless High-Torque CMCF940M1!!!!
@Torque Test Channel !!
High torque announced today
There's been a lot of Rumors that Craftsman RP is just DeWalt painted Red/Black with different badges. So a person can save some dough and buy the Craftsman RP version on tools they don't use so often. 🤑 🛠
Just bought one with the 6.0Ah battery today. Ready for use! ✌🏻🇺🇸
I have owned the exact same one for a little over a year got it on sale with a battery and charger and a 4amp hour battery for $120 and it has a surprise the hell out of me it busted loose lug nuts on a truck that we were binding a 36 inch breaker bar on if you expected to do the same as a three $400 tool it's just not going to do it but they're having your trunk or just in your garage it's nice to have
I was able to pick up this Craftsman impact wrench at Lowe’s a few weeks ago and got a dual pack of 4AH batteries for free with the purchase. I don’t really need an impact wrench as most of what I do is woodworking. But I’m not about to pass up getting an impact wrench and 2 4AH batteries for $119 + tax…
I always re-torque my lug nuts/bolts after i get new tires installed. Brian makes a good point that some tire installers dont pay attention to this in applying the correct torque value because either they are working fast or overwhelmed.
Thank you Brian for your review on this craftsman..i was always curious about it.
Nice review brother! From someone that just recently started investing in the V20 series, I really do appreciate all the craftsman reviews. Hopefully we can see a lot more craftsman tools.
They may have been using an extension on that impact, I had one on mine and it reduced the power. I took the Extention off and it worked fine!
Just like when Ridgid came out with "Octane" and had some recent tools in their Gen 5X line so those all got the new labeling but same tools. My theory with RP is we're seeing a lot of the same. The idea that Craftsman cordless was already borrowing a hand-me down design from the DeWalt DCF894 (which the mid pretty much is) but when coming out with "RP" THEN felt it was time to make something new/unique but still same look and specs? A bit too far fetched for me. But hey, a DCF894 for $100-119. This thing is a buy
Craftsman is better than dewalt. Doesn’t get hot like dewalt and it’s not a dyi tool. Better performance and doesn’t smoke like dewalts do
It's actually a decent impact Brian…👍
I really like my craftsman 1/2” mid torque (non RP). I noticed a huge difference between 2 and 4ah batteries. The hog ring sometimes is fussy but I find I put a dabble of silicone grease on it and it’s a bit better. The only other thing I’d complain about is the direction switch sometimes can be slightly moved from reverse to forwards with gloves on. I’d def recommend it for $100-120
Nice tool. I would buy it to have it handy in the trunk of my car for tire changing
It's well known the CMCF920B was a de-rated DeWalt DCF894B and the CMCF921B seems to be sticking to the same formula just new packaging.
I had the DCF894 and it was a very capable tool, hence I can vouch for this tool for most owners and even pro duties under 350 ft/lbs.
I don’t think the line between diy and pro are as defined as you think man. I’ve got a buddy that uses Ryobi as a mechanic in a local shop and I use Milwaukee for my personal use at home. But I’m also the guy that’ll have the hoa driving by Karen-ing at me because I’ll have half my engine sitting in the driveway. 😂
I use all the craftsman brushless no problems
Don't be quick to judge an impact strength when taking wheels off that you have not put on. I bought a Harbor Freight Impact and was disappointed when I needed to take a wheel off and couldn't. My view changed moments later when my air impact struggled until I upped the air pressure. Suffice it to say whoever put my wheels on went well beyond spec.
I think these craftsman are pro quality tools they are just as good as Dewalt, Milwaukee, Makita and Metabo ,I have this same impact wrench and the dewalt mid torque not the newer model and the craftsman is a little better I keep that in my car all the time love craftsman grips
I always grease up my lugs
So many options now in power tools. So many brands I will not buy because it's a different platform. I do have a ryobi/dewalt adapter. For the DIY and lighter pro use you can't beat the ryobi for the value and their massive tool lineup especially when they run sales or direct tools.
👍👍👍👍