Craftsman V20 3/8-Inch Cordless Drive Ratchet: An In-Depth Review with a Lifetime Warranty

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      As a DIY enthusiast, having a cordless ratchet is incredibly useful. I spent many years without one, always considering it an unnecessary luxury. After all, a standard ratchet can accomplish most tasks just as well, and I often prioritized other expenditures. However, my perspective shifted as soon as I acquired one for my workshop. While not essential, it is certainly a beneficial addition to any project, especially in tight spaces. With options like the Craftsman V20 cordless ratchet available, it makes for a justifiable purchase for home mechanics.

      The Craftsman V20 cordless ratchet may not be the most advanced model out there. There are numerous high-end versions that outperform it in both capabilities and design. However, it is not excessively priced, overhyped, or unreliable. Instead, it provides the necessary performance and quality to complete tasks effectively at a price point that is easily manageable for the average DIYer. This tool aligns perfectly with the needs of Craftsman's main customer demographic and comes with the reassurance of a lifetime warranty.

      Hank O’Hop

      The Bottom Line

      Craftsman V20 Cordless Ratchet Value 8/10 Performance 8/10 Quality 8/10 Battery Life 7/10 Overall 7.75/10

      Craftsman V20 3/8-Inch Cordless Drive Ratchet Specifications

      The Craftsman V20 Cordless ratchet can operate at speeds up to 300 rpm and provides a maximum torque of 35 foot-pounds. Craftsman emphasizes its compact and lightweight design, despite containing a sizable 20-volt battery. This battery positions it among a series of affordable DIY-grade power tools, adding value for its loyal customer base. The handle has been reinforced for added durability when tackling stubborn fasteners. Additionally, it features a variable-speed paddle switch and an integrated LED light for visibility in dark areas.

      The bare tool is available for $99.00, while the complete kit with a 2.0Ah battery and charger is priced at $158.00. This price complements the performance it delivers, along with a limited lifetime warranty that surpasses what is typically offered by premium options at double the cost and similar performance ratings. The 2.0Ah battery comes with a standard 3-year limited warranty.

      Hank O’Hop

      In Action

      I used the Craftsman V20 cordless ratchet for several projects in the workshop. My first task was servicing the brakes on my wife’s 2016 Honda Civic using the Gearwrench 120XP 82-piece tool set, along with the Craftsman V20 cordless impact wrench. Subsequently, I worked on the front end of my 1969 Dodge Charger, where a simple application of Fluid Film escalated into a brake job, including replacing the old Wilwood calipers with new ones.

      While researching this cordless ratchet, I encountered numerous comments suggesting it was light-duty and lacking in power. When I first held it, I worried that these opinions might hold some truth. Weighing in at two pounds and ten ounces with the battery, it was two ounces lighter than the Milwaukee M12 cordless ratchet equipped with its battery. This was surprising given the differences in battery size and length, leading one to assume it might be fragile, but it’s not.

      I utilized the Craftsman cordless ratchet to manually break the caliper bolts loose on both vehicles, which were quite stubborn. Though it’s not a breaker bar, it managed the task without issue. While the maximum torque of 35 foot-pounds is lower compared to some other 20-volt cordless ratchets, it is essentially the standard and sufficient for most jobs.

      Craftsman also integrated some design features that enhance usability. The raised directional switch is a welcome touch, as many users, including myself, appreciate it more than the typical low-profile versions. The ratchet has a well-balanced feel, with even weight distribution despite the large 20-volt battery. Additionally, the battery life is commendable, with the 2.0Ah battery allowing for considerable use before needing a recharge. It retains its charge well when stored in a cool garage. I believe most DIYers will manage fine with just one battery.

      Regarding its compactness, this primarily refers to the head of the ratchet, which is noticeably smaller than those on other cordless ratchets. The raised directional switch may occasionally pose a challenge, but overall, the compact head design enables access to more fasteners. The remaining portion of the ratchet is of average size—it's not so large that it becomes a limitation, but its 14.5-inch length and use of a 20-volt battery prevent it from being truly compact.

      Hank O’Hop

      The Conclusion: A Solid Option for DIYers

      In summary, the Craftsman V20 cordless ratchet is an excellent tool