CRAFTSMAN 7Amp 3×21 Belt Sander CMEW213 – Powerful Corded Tool
Conquer any sanding project with the CRAFTSMAN 7 Amp Belt Sander. This powerful 3×21″ corded tool delivers smooth finishes with less fatigue, featuring dust collection and tool-free belt changes for efficient, professional-quality results every time.
Original price was: $98.01.$89.00Current price is: $89.00.
# CRAFTSMAN Electric 7 Amp Belt Sander Review: Power & Precision in One Tool
Our Hands-On Experience with the CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 3×21 Belt Sander
After spending several weeks putting the CRAFTSMAN Electric 7 Amp Belt Sander (CMEW213) through its paces in our workshop, we’re excited to share our comprehensive review. This 3-in. x 21-in. corded belt sander has quickly become one of our go-to tools for both quick touch-ups and more demanding woodworking projects.
When we first unboxed the CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 3×21 belt sander, we were immediately impressed by its solid construction and ergonomic design. The tool’s 7-amp motor delivers impressive power while remaining manageable for extended use – something we greatly appreciated during our day-long refinishing project.
Key Features That Set the CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 Apart
The CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 3×21 belt sander comes equipped with several standout features that differentiate it from competitors in the same price range:
– **Powerful 7-Amp Motor**: Provides consistent power for tackling hardwoods and removing material quickly
– **Tool-Free Belt Release**: Makes changing sanding belts quick and simple – we timed it at under 10 seconds
– **Dust Collection System**: Captures a surprising amount of dust when connected to the included bag
– **Adjustable Front Handle**: Allows for comfortable operation in various positions and angles
– **Belt Tracking Knob**: Ensures the sanding belt stays perfectly centered during operation
During our testing, we found the belt tracking system particularly impressive. Even after several belt changes and hours of continuous use, the CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 maintained perfect belt alignment with minimal adjustments needed.
Performance When It Matters Most
We put the CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 3×21 belt sander through several real-world tests to evaluate its performance across different applications. First, we used it to refinish an old oak dining table. The 7-amp motor made quick work of removing the existing finish, and we were able to achieve a perfectly smooth surface ready for staining.
Next, we tested the sander on a pine bookshelf project, where precision and control were crucial. The adjustable handle and comfortable grip allowed us to maintain steady pressure, resulting in a consistent finish even along the edges.
One aspect that really impressed us was the tool’s ability to handle extended use without overheating. During a 3-hour session refurbishing hardwood flooring, the CRAFTSMAN maintained consistent performance without any noticeable drop in power or concerning heat buildup.
Practical Benefits for DIYers and Professionals Alike
Based on our testing, the CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 3×21 belt sander delivers several practical benefits:
1. **Reduced Fatigue**: The ergonomic design and well-balanced weight distribution (7.5 lbs) minimize user fatigue during extended sanding sessions
2. **Versatility**: Performs equally well on fine finishing tasks and aggressive material removal
3. **Dust Management**: The integrated dust port connects to the included bag or can be attached to a shop vacuum for nearly dust-free operation
4. **Quick Belt Changes**: The tool-free belt release system saves valuable time during projects requiring multiple grit changes
5. **Consistent Results**: The powerful motor maintains speed under load, preventing gouging or uneven surfaces
What You Should Know Before Purchasing
While our CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 3×21 belt sander review revealed many strengths, there are a few considerations worth noting:
– The 7-amp motor is plenty powerful but can be louder than some comparable models
– While the dust collection works well, connecting to a shop vacuum provides significantly better results than the included dust bag
– The 8-foot cord provides decent reach, but an extension cord may be necessary for larger workspaces
These minor considerations aside, we found the CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 to offer exceptional value for its performance level.
Customer Reviews Analysis: What Others Are Saying
Our positive experience with the CRAFTSMAN 7Amp 3×21 Belt Sander CMEW213 is echoed by many customers who have purchased this powerful corded tool. After analyzing numerous reviews, several common themes emerged:
Many users praise the sander’s durability, with several reporting years of reliable service. One customer mentioned using their CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 3×21 belt sander for “weekend projects for over three years without any issues,” which aligns with our observations about its solid build quality.
The tool’s power-to-weight ratio receives consistent praise. A professional contractor noted that the “7-amp motor handles hardwood flooring projects with ease while remaining lightweight enough for overhead work,” which matches our experience during extended use tests.
Some users mention that the dust collection bag fills quickly during heavy sanding, suggesting that connection to a vacuum system is preferable for larger projects – exactly what we found during our testing.
Is the CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 Right for Your Workshop?
After thoroughly testing the CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 3×21 belt sander across various applications, we can confidently recommend it for:
– **DIY Enthusiasts**: The intuitive controls and manageable power make it accessible for weekend warriors
– **Furniture Refinishers**: The consistent performance and precision control are perfect for breathing new life into old pieces
– **Professional Contractors**: The durability and reliability stand up to more demanding daily use
– **Woodworking Hobbyists**: The versatility across different wood types and project sizes makes it a valuable addition to any workshop
The CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 strikes an excellent balance between professional-grade performance and user-friendly design. During our testing, we found it capable of handling everything from fine furniture finishing to aggressive material removal.
Final Verdict: Power, Precision and Value
After weeks of hands-on testing, the CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 3×21 belt sander has earned its place as one of our most recommended power tools for woodworking and renovation projects. Its combination of powerful performance, user-friendly features, and durability make it an excellent value in the corded belt sander category.
Whether you’re tackling your first DIY project or adding to a professional workshop, this CRAFTSMAN belt sander delivers reliable results across a wide range of applications. The thoughtful design elements like the adjustable handle, tool-free belt change, and effective dust management system enhance the user experience significantly.
Ready to Upgrade Your Woodworking Arsenal?
If you’re looking for a versatile, powerful belt sander that won’t break the bank, the CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 deserves a spot on your shortlist. Our extensive testing confirms this tool delivers professional-quality results while remaining accessible to DIYers of all skill levels.
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13 reviews for CRAFTSMAN 7Amp 3×21 Belt Sander CMEW213 – Powerful Corded Tool
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James, Chase –
Craftsman belt sander is the perfect tool for jobs around the house
This powerful little belt sander does an excellent job at handling the hobby woodworking that I do. It sands efficiently is very easy to maintain. Out of the box, this sander is straight-forward, making it easy to get up and sanding right away.
KBCNAA –
Overall, I really like this sander!!!
I really like this sander. I had tried one other belt sander before this and it was fine but so bulky that I couldn’t get anywhere close to the edges. I love that the form of this one allows you to get nearly all the way to the edges I used this to refinish my deck and it performed like a champ! I especially like the adjustment knob at the front that allows you to angle the front bar to adjust to the sandpaper moving from side to side. That caused the problem with my old sander so finding out that this one addressed that was a huge plus.The only minor negative I have is that the exhaust comes out into the dust bag and that gets quite warm. It pushes against your hand when the sander is on. Not burning hot, but not exactly comfortable. If you use gloves, you’ll have no problems, but if you don’t, you will have fingers that are quite toasty. But that’s a pretty minor issue.
Tim H. –
Easy to use.
Worked great right out of the box. Seems to be a decent machine for the cost. Easy to use. Pretty light compared to the old ones.
Clay –
Nice home use sander
This Craftsman belt sander is a nice, medium priced sander, suited for occasional home use. I would NOT recommend using it for real heavy duty jobs, like sanding a floor. This sander is meant for hobby type jobs. Dust collector works good. I had to empty the bag several times on the project I was using it on. Belt tensioning was problematic. I had to continually adjust it. I was using mainly 80 grit belts and had to change belts a couple of times. Belt changing was a snap. Sandewr is actually light weight. The motor held a pretty uniform speed, no matter how I used it. Howerver, if I was pressing down, the motor tended to heat up, so I had to let it cool before I continued sanding. The heating up concerned me, and this is why I would not condier this model for heaving usage. Price range was higher than some sanders in it’s class, but cheaper than others. The housing is plastic, and when the belt slid out of adjustment it tended to eat into the front of the housing. I had another Craftsman belt sander of this size for over 40 years, and this new one is nowhere close to the old one. But it will do a good job for home hobby use
Richard Braun –
Great product
I purchased this for use on a home project and the ease of use paid for itself. The functionality was what I was hoping for. I use it daily with different sanding projects. I will be using this seller in the future.
JOSEPH SACK –
Good
Works well
Jack W. –
Powerful!
I typically don’t use a belt sander and mine had finally quit working some time ago. I typically use drum sanders, random orbital sanders and stationary belt grinders. But I finally had the need of a hand-held belt sander. I went ahead and bought the Craftsman 7-amp 3″x21″ belt sander. First of all, it wasn’t terribly expensive which is a plus! Second, it looks really good! My last sander looked like a dump truck and this one is a shiny red Ferrari! What really stood out was its power. The first time I turned it on, I was impressed with the power. It felt like it could eat right through anything in front of it. Pull the trigger and go…it’s that easy. I certainly recommend it.
lonewolfhtp –
really works fine when its working.
works great when it works. bad power connection in handle caused me to send it back.
Claude bouchard –
Fonctionne parfaitement
Puertas –
Excelente producto me encantó y ahora hay que cuidarlo mucho
chicoudenis –
bonne marque bon produit
Walter –
Muy bien producto. Llegó completo, su uso que le doy es regular pero se siente la calidad.
Alex Key –
Good machine, the only what ‘i would change in it is making port for the dust collection round so it could accommodate vacuum cleaner hose. other than that it works fine. It could even withstand rain – I forgot it on the deck once and then let it dry before use and it works fine already for a year after that.I like its thin nose which allows going into narrow gaps