Craftsman bolt-on modular power tools

[Stuey]

(More pics & details: http://toolguyd.com/craftsman-bolt-on/)

Made by B&D but there are a few differences from their new Matrix lineup.

imho, it's a good idea - cost effective for those who want more tools but lack the budget or space for full-size add-ons.

I'm pressing for test samples but don't expect to try them out for a couple of weeks at least. I don't have a good idea based on specs alone to recommend for or against them, but I'm optimistic.

And no, Cman's not discontinuing their 19.2V C3 lineup.

Some people might cry out that they're gimmicky, but Ridgid's system seems to have sold quite well over the years, so there's definitely a market for this type of tool system.

Your thoughts?

 

[Steevo]

When I saw the ad last weekend, my first thought was that the handle angle is all wrong for a lot of the attachments, and how can the power head run fast enough for a router bit?

 

[Stuey]

When I saw the ad last weekend, my first thought was that the handle angle is all wrong for a lot of the attachments, and how can the power head run fast enough for a router bit?

Yep. Some of the configurations look awfully awkward, but I typically try to reserve judgement until I can try a tool out.

9000 RPM is 1/3 to 1/4 the speed of trim-sized routers. Besides that, "a 3/8" chuck grips bits tight." Doesn't sound right.

 

[jim2664258]

LOL "bolt-on". Gotta love marketing people.

This kind of set makes me wonder a bit. You would think the target audience would be those that don't want to spend a lot of money to get all those power tools. But if you are that kind of person, are you going to buy a lot of the attachments? Probably not, just the ones you really want. So, are there enough people out there that want whatever, 3-4 of the attachments but are also the type that wouldn't spend the money to get dedicated (and likely better) tools? Guess we will find out. Probably comes down to how many people are (only) occasional users of multiple attachments for the tool.

While I don't care for the line I'm glad companies take a shot with new things so I won't bash them for that. And as always, for the right people it's probably a good thing.

 

[Stuey]

It'll be interesting to see what happens.

imho, what it comes down to is how effective B&D and Craftsman's marketing efforts are.

 

[Danglerb]

Two big cost items on a portable tool are motors and batteries. Batteries have been modular for some time, doing the same for the motors "seems" a natural, but look at the line of tools and to me I am not seeing good tools, but rather tools that will sort of work, so maybe its all save space or something.

OTOH I think the idea has potential, just not as they have done it.

 

[jtbinvalrico]

Craftsman in 1956:

 

[coldfusion21]

That's a pricey drill! Almost 220 dollars in 2010 money.

Cool old ad!

 

[william.m.hamilton2]

I bought one of these for my brother in law. He works on ATM and POS systems for a living. He isn't a big tool guy yet- though he has gotten alot of duplicates and hand me downs from me. Sister is buying the impact, recip, trim saw, and the oscillating heads. My wife is getting him a large pink or purple tool bag to hold it all.

It's no where near the dewalt kits or even my porter cables. But- for what he needs, and the frequency that most folks wear out batteries and just buy new sets (yes I know- it really is cheaper)- I think its a great start for him.

I will keep you all posted on his feedback after the holiday!

Will

 

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Craftsman in 1956:

Jeez I think somebody gave me one of those recently !