Craftsman 260 pc. Mechanics Tool Set with 3-Drawer Flip-Top Blow Mold Chest

A few defective pieces, but Sears is made it right. January 17, 2012

I have been buying Craftsman tools for 24 years.  This set was decent overall, but had a few problems.  There were several defective pieces that Sears very politely replaced.  But the bigest disappointment was the general quality of the markings on the tools.

The ratches and extensions were excellent, and up to Craftsmans usual standards.

However, the caliber of the markings on the sockets was not up to the Sears usual standard.  They are not as clear and crisp as I usually expect from Craftsman.  One sockets size was completely unmarked (and was replaced).  The 1" socket stamping was messy and looked like a 4.  Overall, the socket size stampings were faint.

Another disapointment was the markings on the hex keys.  One the smaller keys, I am used to the markings on Craftsman keys being clear.  Obviously on the smaller keys they can be hard to read because of the size, but they have always been clear in the past.  The markings on the small keys in this set were a mess, and mostly unreadable.

One of the nut driver bits was a defective forging and totally unusable.  Craftsman is sending me a new one.

Overall the set is OK and I will continue to buy Craftsman tools, but the set did show a slip in quality control that would make me consider switching brands if my next purchase shows similar quality problems.

Made in the USA January 01, 2012

A co-worker of mine just this week told me that his father in-law lost his job due to company financial troubles. The fact that this tool set is almost entirely made in america (not sure about the case and some of the really small bits) was the deciding factor on this one. I need to be more conscious of supporting companies that supply jobs and benefit our countrys economy. I am really glad I did on this set. Craftsman does have a mix of overseas tools but not this set.

I originally got the notion to pick-up a secondary set of tools when I saw ***** had a 227 piece set for $99.00. I looked up the sockets and the set was really weak on 1/2 drive and far fewer sockets total. The Kobalt tools are also made overseas.

I wanted something that can fit in the back of the truck/car on trips and something very sturdy but relatively cheap in cost. The sockets and wrenches I have are snap on so I never felt comfortable keeping something like that in the back of the utility vehicle unattended. I will come right out and say it, the fit and finish of this set is not up to the standard of Snap-on but thats fine. I actually like the ratchets, there is a little slop till they re-engage (very minor) after ratcheting but after that they work just fine. They also dont stay snug up against the ratchet, not a problem just more of an observation. The quick release button is a very nice feature and works well.

The sockets are nice, particularly the 12 points. Very nice fit and finish on them. The set has a lot of useful sizes and the kit goes up to 22mm and 1 1/16. There are also sizes down to 4mm for the 1/4 drive. The box keeps everything nicely in place although there are no designated secure spots for the combination wrenches. I'm going to wrap them in some roll-up sleeves to keep them from clanking around.

If you don't have one, you are going to want to pick up a breaker bar or two as this kit does not come with one. I would also consider throwing in some extension bars as it is light on that, particularly 1/4 and 1/2 drives. One of the nice things about this chest is it not inflated with a bunch of cheap bits. The bit driver that comes with the kit is a very nice tool. I'll probably throw in some extra bits instead of filling the open top with screwdrivers. There are also a nice set of nut drive socket bits that will fit in the bit driver. The nut drivers are nice tools and there are only 6 screw driver bits, 2 hex, one box bit and a 1/4 in. drive adapter. Some sets have 20 or 30 which inflate the tool count. Out of the 260 pieces in this kit every piece is a good useable tool. Would have liked more 12 points over 6 points but for under $200 I can't complain.

This set is a great value and I am glad I spent the extra money and bought american made tools. Would definitely recommend this kit. I gave it 5 stars because I expected some of the smaller bits to be cheaper filler and everything else was as anticipated.

I love this set of tools and never go to work with out it! December 21, 2011

this tool set is the best, i would never give it up.

Craftsman 260 pc. Mechanics Tool Set with 3-Draws December 15, 2011

A very good and basic starter set. Everything you will need to get you stared at an awesome price...