Disappointed with new Craftsman RP Wrenches

Kyle86 · Jul 11, 2012

**EDIT: LINK TO THREAD WITH PICTURES IS HERE**
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=158190

I just purchased two of the 26 piece craftsman wrench sets from Sears. One was metric and one was sae. The quality of the smaller wrenches are just horrible. Also on some of the larger wrenches, the corners and edges were not chamfered and were left very sharp. On the smaller wrenches such as 10mm and 3/8, the broaching and chamfer on the box ends are uneven and even flat looking on one side and sharp on the other. Some of the box ends are not centered in the wrench either but that is something I can look past. Also on some wrenches the chrome is splattered inside the box end and resembling casting flash. I did not examine every wrench, these were just the first few that I inspected after purchase. Also the open ends had some deep nicks in them but at least they were functional.

Honestly this is something that I would expect from harbor freight and not craftsman. My -VA- wrenches are much nicer and the machining is not sloppy, however these brand new sets, labled -v^- little va are unacceptable and will be going back to sears. I also noticed that the box did not have the older American flag made in USA logo like previous boxes which makes me question the validity of the COO.

I may post pictures, however I just wanted to let yall know that if you buy these wrenches, inspect them first!!! I just bought a sample wrightgrip wrench from HJE and it is seperb! I will be saving up and purchasing a quality set.

Just had to rant a little. This is a legendary wrench, one my father was proud of owning. I can't stand to see this lack of quality out of a company that was once held as the high standard for home tools.

RedFordTruck · Jul 11, 2012

Post pics!

I got two Open stock wrenches today on clearance for 97 cents each and they seemed fine.

My other Craftsman wrenches are -VA- But with out the middle part on the A.

They are supposedly the ones made by Armstrong, and the quality is fine on them. I havent purchased any Sets of RP wrenches in over 6 months though.

SMKS · Jul 11, 2012

Post pics. People here may want to see some pictures before they pass too much judgement.

Also, you can find threads on here with people complaining about every brand and showing quality control problems.

I like Wright, but they're not perfect, either:
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=116782

Also, what are the manufacturing markings on the wrenches?

Kyle86 · Jul 11, 2012

I am out of town right now but will definately post pics on sunday when I get back before they are returned.

Kyle86 · Jul 11, 2012

I should have known something was going to be off when the price was $49 for 26 wrenches.

Also the -v^- Symbol listed on these wrenches are very tiny when compared to my other -V^- wrenches which were purchased a few years ago and show resonable quality. I am not sure if this means anything but I did notice the difference. I will also post pics of this on sunday, sorry I did not have pictures ready to post on this.

pipsters · Jul 11, 2012

I have found Craftsman to be a great value in US made tools. I have also found that they can be really hit or miss, as in they can make some great looking stuff then right next to it another one can look like ****.

Instead of returning entire sets, I go through and pick out the "losers", go to Sears and swap them out. You could go pay $200 for he same size range in SK, or $500 or $600 in Snap-On, or do a little legwork and have some very functional wrenches for $50. You're call!

dale500 · Jul 11, 2012

I have been picking up odd wrenches to fill out my Craftsman sets while they are still U.S. made but I have noticed many of the same issues you have mentioned. Especially the sharp edges along the handles. I have seen some that are sharp enough that they would likely cut your hand if you applied some pressure. I have seen the same thing on ratchets as well. Maybe it is time to just forget about the USA label and hope the quality improves with the Chinese stock. I think that if I was just starting out to put together a tool set for home use I would be looking hard at Kobalt. The finish seems to be much better and they have some great deals right now. I just picked up the Kobalt 1/2 in 72 tooth ratchet set with 14 sockets and short extension for $20 this week and the quality of the finish is far better than the current Craftsman offerings.

TwoInch · Jul 11, 2012

expecting a lot for $2.00 wrenches with a lifetime warranty.

i actually got the metric 26pc set today, for a second set. i opened it up at the store, swapped out one wrench that was goofed up a little for one that was normal. i dont expect perfection for $44.99(Cman club price). i really figured everyone knew that RP wrenches are not top of the line products. they are quality for a great price, and as any company, will have a clunker here and there. look at the problems SK was having with their wrench production not all that long ago.... it happens. you bought wrenches with a satisfaction guarantee.... take the ones that dont satisfy you, and get new ones. simple as pie

the midget wrenches are rough, as always. i didnt buy the set for them.

Jim C. · Jul 11, 2012

Do the wrenches themselves have USA cast into their panels? I keep reading various posts questioning the COO of Craftsman RP wrenches, but I don't think anyone has conclusively shown that RP wrenches are being made anywhere else but in the USA.

Jim C.

bsaint · Jul 11, 2012

I hate the most is off centering forging.

OEXL16B · Jul 11, 2012

Kyle86 said:
The quality of the smaller wrenches are just horrible.

Sears was hoping nobody noticed.

Kyle86 · Jul 11, 2012

Thanks for the idea of swaping out the flops. I was so anoyed I hadn't thought of sorting them. Some of the wrenches are good while others are pretty lousy. Yes the midget wrenches ****. I can't believe they sell those things for $20 a pack!

I too have been looking at kobalt myself. They have some decent deals and though they are Taiwan made, the finish looks great on them.

OEXL16B · Jul 12, 2012

Kyle86 said:
Yes the midget wrenches ****. I can't believe they sell those things for $20 a pack!

I got a set that I bought new in 1983. They're pretty good quality.

Kyle86 · Jul 12, 2012

Jim C. said:
Do the wrenches themselves have USA cast into their panels? I keep reading various posts questioning the COO of Craftsman RP wrenches, but I don't think anyone has conclusively shown that RP wrenches are being made anywhere else but in the USA.

Jim C.

I have a theory Jim. I think that these are USA made, however the company appears to be phasing out the proudness of being USA tools. All you will find on the packaging is some thin fine print saying made in USA. I speculate the company is preparing to move manufacture of them overseas like they have their rp ratchets and all of their other wrenches. The plant probably knows they are going to loose the contract and rumors spread and quality goes to ****. Just like what happened with the sk brand as well as many other manufacture areas such as the automotive industry. An ex is the late 70s corvettes factoy being moved. New cars were coming off the line with sabotaged parts and anoying stuff like beer bottles in the frame rails and loose hardware rolling around under the dash and headliner.

Just a theory, but would not be suprised if we start seeing USA dropped off the tool's panel and the fine print beig changed from usa to taiwan.

Kyle86 · Jul 12, 2012

OEXL16B said:
I got a set that I bought new in 1983. They're pretty good quality.

I wish my craftsman tools were from 1983. I bet their entire line was pretty good quality.

TwoInch · Jul 12, 2012

Jim C. said:
Do the wrenches themselves have USA cast into their panels? I keep reading various posts questioning the COO of Craftsman RP wrenches, but I don't think anyone has conclusively shown that RP wrenches are being made anywhere else but in the USA.

Jim C.

all RP wrenches are stamped FORGED IN THE USA real big right on the middle of the wrench, as they always have. they are -v^- (V and inverted V, not A)series, which is definitely danaher, and most likely armstrong division of danaher.

the reason they removed the flag symbol from the packaging is so that its not so obvious that the other tools are not USA made.

TwoInch · Jul 12, 2012

Kyle86 said:
I speculate the company is preparing to move manufacture of them overseas like they have their rp ratchets and all of their other wrenches. The plant probably knows they are going to loose the contract and rumors spread and quality goes to ****.

Just a theory, but would not be suprised if we start seeing USA dropped off the tool's panel and the fine print beig changed from usa to taiwan.

the wrenches and ratchets that are being made in china and taiwan are still danaher made. contract is with the same company, different manufacture location.

if it happens, it will be china, not taiwan. almost guaranteed.

monster1 · Jul 12, 2012

Kyle86 said:
Thanks for the idea of swaping out the flops. I was so anoyed I hadn't thought of sorting them. Some of the wrenches are good while others are pretty lousy. Yes the midget wrenches ****. I can't believe they sell those things for $20 a pack!

I too have been looking at kobalt myself. They have some decent deals and though they are Taiwan made, the finish looks great on them.

what midget wrenches are you referring to for 20 bucks?

TwoInch · Jul 12, 2012

monster1 said:
what midget wrenches are you referring to for 20 bucks?

the 26pc set comes with a set of 16 RP wrenches 7mm-22mm, or 1/4-1 1/8", and a set of 10 midget(ignition) wrenches like these

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-10-p...p-00942319000P?prdNo=1&blockNo=1&blockType=G1

Kyle86 · Jul 12, 2012

Actually I beieve the correct term is "little people" wrenches. Must be because they fit their tiny little hands well.

HandyManny · Jul 12, 2012

monster1 said:
what midget wrenches are you referring to for 20 bucks?

I have a set of metric midget wrenches Armstrong branded and stamped USA, but I think the same wrenches are also sold under the Cman brand as well. Horrible quality in mine as far as fit, broaching, and asthetics goes. I've seen better tools that were homemade by people with no steel working skills. :sad:

HandyManny · Jul 12, 2012

TwoInch said:
all RP wrenches are stamped FORGED IN THE USA real big right on the middle of the wrench, as they always have. they are -v^- (V and inverted V, not A)series, which is definitely danaher, and most likely armstrong division of danaher.

the reason they removed the flag symbol from the packaging is so that its not so obvious that the other tools are not USA made.

So this proves what typical modern day USA made quality is, eh? This is why I can't understand many people equating quality with COO.

SMKS · Jul 12, 2012

HandyManny said:
So this proves what typical modern day USA made quality is, eh? This is why I can't understand many people equating quality with COO.

You also have to remember the price point of these wrenches. COO/price point/quality are all intermingled.

Again, you can find quality control complaints about just about every brand on this board if you perform a search.

While you may run across some quality control problems to deal with, these wrenches still offer a lot for the money.

Plus, I'd wait to pass judgement until the OP posts some pics.

HandyManny · Jul 12, 2012

stephen9666 said:
You also have to remember the price point of these wrenches. COO/price point/quality are all intermingled.

Again, you can find quality control complaints about just about every brand on this board if you perform a search.

While you may run across some quality control problems to deal with, these wrenches still offer a lot for the money.

Plus, I'd wait to pass judgement until the OP posts some pics.

That's my point. I'm tyring to make all those who say only USA is the best, realise that there are other factors involved. Also the fact that not all USA made tools from the golden era of USA were all the best either. We had cheap economy grade tool then too, made in USA.

Those Cman RP wrenches in the past were good quality wrenches, but have now be relinquished to the equivelent of an economy grade tool these days, even if they are USA made.

concealer404 · Jul 12, 2012

Heh, i bought this same set about 2 years ago, think i paid $40. The midgets wrenches were HORRID.

monster1 · Jul 12, 2012

HandyManny said:
I have a set of metric midget wrenches Armstrong branded and stamped USA, but I think the same wrenches are also sold under the Cman brand as well. Horrible quality in mine as far as fit, broaching, and asthetics goes. I've seen better tools that were homemade by people with no steel working skills.

So are you saying I should stay away from these? :lol_hitti

SMKS · Jul 12, 2012

HandyManny said:
Those Cman RP wrenches in the past were good quality wrenches, but have now be relinquished to the equivelent of an economy grade tool these days, even if they are USA made.

I think the Craftsman RP wrenches are still higher quality than "economy grade" tools. People here like do a lot of Craftsman bashing, and only some of it seems to be warranted.

I purchased a set of box wrenches a few weeks ago. The two smallest wrenches had minor problems, but otherwise the quality of the sets was good, IMO.

Pics and more info here:
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=157062

Skin · Jul 12, 2012

The ignition wrenches are stamped out, not forged. Its no secret they're pretty horrid in the cosmetics department.

BrokewrenchLS1 · Jul 12, 2012

I stopped by Sears last night to pick up a replacement 3/8" ratchet and a couple 9/16" sockets for here at work. Ours walked out in a client's tool bag, I think.

Anyway, I took a look at some of the open stock wrenches they had hanging up, since I was there and so were they, and the quality on most was pretty rough. I've got plenty of RP wrenches at home, most 5-10 years old, and the new RP wrenches I saw made my old ones look like Snap-on. Two of the 1/2" wrenches I compared, the open end was probably 0.5-0.75mm wider on one than the other.

Didn't think to check the sockets I got, but I looked at them earlier today, and the chrome outside is pretty nice, but the inside feels like sandpaper. There's just about no chrome plating at all on the inside of either socket, and it's very rough - not pitted, it feels more like weld spatter. I can't remember any of my Craftsman sockets at home (also 5-10 years old among different sets) being nearly as bad inside.

Conversely, the full-polish 3/8" ratchet I got is completely immaculate with not one blemish or pit in the chrome. Course, I could have bought an SK or Cornwell ratchet for the same price, but I didn't realise what going retail was until I was in the store.

TwoInch · Jul 12, 2012

HandyManny said:
So this proves what typical modern day USA made quality is, eh? This is why I can't understand many people equating quality with COO.

sure, i guess.. if you mean a 26pc set of USA made wrenches for 45 dollars...

when people expect 26 snap on top of the line quality wrenches for less than 2 dollars a wrench, then they will be majorly disappointed.

the point is that for 45 dollars, and usa made, i will choose them everytime over china made for ** dollars. if i wanted top of the line, i would pay for them. but RP wrenches are a great value for the money. maybe not the prettiest, but i have tons of them, and never one has failed or screwed up a fastener for me.

lets forget the midgets in the set, now we are at $2.80 a wrench. for the quality had, the USA is just a bonus in my eyes.

TwoInch · Jul 12, 2012

HandyManny said:
Those Cman RP wrenches in the past were good quality wrenches, but have now be relinquished to the equivelent of an economy grade tool these days, even if they are USA made.

i disagree. the ones i have that are made recently, the open end measures the same as the old -V- series, and the box end is actually a better tool now as they have off corner engagement. they are still right in the middle quality wise, not economy in my book. they are far superior to HF or other china made economy wrenches. i would also choose them everytime over the "higher end" C-man china polished wrenches that sell for more money.

HandyManny · Jul 13, 2012

TwoInch said:
sure, i guess.. if you mean a 26pc set of USA made wrenches for 45 dollars...

when people expect 26 snap on top of the line quality wrenches for less than 2 dollars a wrench, then they will be majorly disappointed.

the point is that for 45 dollars, and usa made, i will choose them everytime over china made for ** dollars. if i wanted top of the line, i would pay for them. but RP wrenches are a great value for the money. maybe not the prettiest, but i have tons of them, and never one has failed or screwed up a fastener for me.

lets forget the midgets in the set, now we are at $2.80 a wrench. for the quality had, the USA is just a bonus in my eyes.

TwoInch said:
i disagree. the ones i have that are made recently, the open end measures the same as the old -V- series, and the box end is actually a better tool now as they have off corner engagement. they are still right in the middle quality wise, not economy in my book. they are far superior to HF or other china made economy wrenches. i would also choose them everytime over the "higher end" C-man china polished wrenches that sell for more money.

Nothing wrong with wanting to support USA made stuff. After all I've flown the US flag over my front porch every day for decades, long before the sheeple started doing so after 9/11. I just don't belive in supporting or encouraging mediocrety or middle quality levels at a higher price that's all. But to each their own. To me most current USA made Cman stuff is just middle quality level, but I agree it does work fine.

chewy7 · Jul 13, 2012

Kyle86 said:
I just purchased two of the 26 piece craftsman wrench sets from Sears. One was metric and one was sae. The quality of the smaller wrenches are just horrible. Also on some of the larger wrenches, the corners and edges were not chamfered and were left very sharp. On the smaller wrenches such as 10mm and 3/8, the broaching and chamfer on the box ends are uneven and even flat looking on one side and sharp on the other. Some of the box ends are not centered in the wrench either but that is something I can look past. Also on some wrenches the chrome is splattered inside the box end and resembling casting flash. I did not examine every wrench, these were just the first few that I inspected after purchase. Also the open ends had some deep nicks in them but at least they were functional.

Honestly this is something that I would expect from harbor freight and not craftsman. My -VA- wrenches are much nicer and the machining is not sloppy, however these brand new sets, labled -v^- little va are unacceptable and will be going back to sears. I also noticed that the box did not have the older American flag made in USA logo like previous boxes which makes me question the validity of the COO.

I may post pictures, however I just wanted to let yall know that if you buy these wrenches, inspect them first!!! I just bought a sample wrightgrip wrench from HJE and it is seperb! I will be saving up and purchasing a quality set.

Just had to rant a little. This is a legendary wrench, one my father was proud of owning. I can't stand to see this lack of quality out of a company that was once held as the high standard for home tools.

lol i guess some people are dumb enough to buy craftsman lol

concealer404 · Jul 13, 2012

chewy7 said:
lol i guess some people are dumb enough to buy craftsman lol

Super cool story bro.

Hootbro · Jul 13, 2012

chewy7 said:
lol i guess some people are dumb enough to buy craftsman lol

Go troll somewhere else.

TwoInch · Jul 13, 2012

HandyManny said:
Nothing wrong with wanting to support USA made stuff. After all I've flown the US flag over my front porch every day for decades, long before the sheeple started doing so after 9/11. I just don't belive in supporting or encouraging mediocrety or middle quality levels at a higher price that's all. But to each their own. To me most current USA made Cman stuff is just middle quality level, but I agree it does work fine.

higher price? higher priced than what? we are talking $2.80 a wrench.... they are mid quality wrenches that do their job well, and are priced accordingly. in my eyes, priced very reasonably. like i said, USA is a bonus, even if it doesnt last very long.

i would like to hear what 16pc combo wrench set can be had for $45, and is of similar or better quality, and USA made and new from a retailer.

Kyle86 · Jul 13, 2012

When I get back sunday night, I will be doing a full inspection of all 32 wrenches and if more than 1/2 of them have functionality issues such very sharp and jaged edges or goofed up boxed ends the whole set are going back. Otherwise I will swap them out. I do not care about cosmetic issues however the part going over the fastener needs to be at least decent.

RangerDaleXp · Jul 13, 2012

Really Need Pictures as stated from the beginning.......

archirelic · Jul 13, 2012

Just last year, my wife purchased for me their 43 piece raised panel set. I looked them over very meticulously and with the exception of one of the smaller sizes having the box end stamped slightly off-center, they were in excellent shape. Quality control was very on-point with the set I received.

I know this image isn't up-close or high quality, just re-posting it showcasing the 43 piece set. An absolute steal at the price we got it for.

Tomato · Jul 13, 2012

What does RP meen when refering to these wrenches?

Disappointed with new Craftsman RP Wrenches

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