Craftsman 12-Volt NEXTEC Multi-Tool Review

Item 00917438000 Model 17438

I bought the Craftsman 12-Volt NEXTEC Nextec Multi-Tool two months ago to test out and review.

I used the saw blade to trim a 1 X 6 out in the yard.  I used the carbide blade to clean out the grout so I could replace a 6 X 6 tile that I put in wrong.  I used the scraper blade to remove some double sided tape so I could put in a new door weather seal.  I used the sanding pad to sand a leg on an adirondack chair before I painted it.  I used the rasp to change the angle on a chair leg brace.  I did all this without dragging out a cord, a sander, an angle grinder, a wood file, a putty knife, a circular saw or a hammer and chisel.  I did all of these tasks easily and in a lot less time than it would normally take.

I did all these tasks with just one tool!

There are a lot of similar multi-tools on the market.  The Craftsman Multi-Tool is not the first and it is not the best, but it is the best value at only $99.  And it’s cordless!

It is similar to the Bosch PS-50, Fein Multimaster, and Dremel Multi-Max. The Craftsman multi-tool is like the others and is even compatible with the Fein accessories but it’s a lithium-ion cordless multi-tool for only $99 (The Dremel Multi-Max is corded for $99). And bonus, like the Fein Multimaster, it comes with an integrated dust bypass vacuum adapter so you can hook it up to your shop vac or dust collection system.

I don’t consider the Craftsman Multi-tool as a heavy-duty tool.  In fact the tool will get hot around the battery area if you use it on too large a task.  It is just a great tool for those special small jobs that I have all the time.

It is a great “around the house” tool.  It works exceptionally well for those small to medium jobs around the house.  If you need a tool like this to work for you all day long or have a large project like painting an entire house you really should buy a heavier tool like the Fein Multi-Master Tool Kit

NEXTEC Multi-Tool Features

The Craftsman 12-Volt NEXTEC Multi-Tool comes in a handy carrying case along with a 30 minute quick charger and six attachments. The Multi-Tool is powered by a 12-volt Lithium-Ion battery. Some of the key features of this tool are:

15000 OPM/ 2.8 oscillation angle
LED work light
includes 6 accessories
Soft-grip Handle
Compact Ergonomic design
Integrated dust bypass with vacuum adapter
Powerful, compact motor
Secure accessory mount
Powered by 12 Volt Lithium-Ion battery
30-minute quick charger with LED charge indicator: Quickly charges the battery and features a charge indicator that visually indicates the charging status.
Compact ergonomic design: ultra compact for use in tight spaces
Lithium-Ion Power: Lighter weight, better performance and longer shelf life.
Weight: 1.8 lbs with battery

Accessories

I recommend buying an extra battery.  If you already own an Craftsman Auto Hammer or any of the NEXTEC Line you already have a spare.  You can order spare battery and blades here Nextec Lithium Tools or pick them up at your local Sears.

Final Thoughts

The Craftsman 12-Volt NEXTEC Multi-Tool performed very well when using it the way it’s meant to be used. This tool is not a replacement for the heavy-duty plug in versions like the Fein Multimaster. It is a great cordless multi-tool that will work very well around the house. The price really makes the Craftsman Multi-Tool shine!

Where To Buy Craftsman NEXTEC Multi-Tool

You can buy the Craftsman NEXTEC Multi-Tool at Sears. Here is a link to buy it, pick it up at your local Sears or have it shipped right to your door:

Nextec Lithium Tools

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