Craftsman 12-Volt NEXTEC Multi-Tool Craftsman sent me their latest tool from the NEXTEC family, the Craftsman 12-Volt NEXTEC Multi-Tool , to test out and review. Many manufacturers are now producing multi-tools similar to this tool. The most notable would be the Fein Multimaster which supplies unlimited power because it’s an electric plug in version and it comes with a hefty $400 price tag. The new Craftsman 12-Volt NEXTEC Multi-Tool is available for around $100 and it’s cordless! 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 Soft-grip Handle Compact Ergonomic design Integrated dust bypass with vacuum adapter Powered by 12 Volt Lithium-Ion battery Weight: 1.8 lbs with battery Product Evaluation & 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. However, it is a great cordless version that will work very well in light applications where the price point makes the Craftsman Multi-Tool shine! Accessories I tried out each of the tool accessories including: cutting blades, grinding blades, scraping and sanding discs. I used the square cutting blade (shown above on the tool) to make some door mortises deeper on a commercial project at work. The multi-tool worked great for that

task and it also worked very well for sanding an area of my deck that I couldn’t reach with the belt sander. Each of the accessories can be mounted at different angles to help in tight spots. Final Thoughts I think the Craftsman 12-Volt NEXTEC Multi-Tool is a great tool for it’s price. If you’re looking for a versatile multi-tool for small projects around then house then I recommend this one. If you’re looking to do larger projects that require more power then you really should pay more money for one of the larger corded models like the Fein Multimaster. There were two things that I wasn’t crazy about. First of all if you use the tool for several minutes you’ll quickly feel the handle/battery compartment get extremely hot. I think the 12-volt battery is being pushed to it’s limit in this application. Also, the battery won’t last really long if you’re doing a task that requires aggressive cutting or sanding. Those two minor comments don’t change the fact that I like this tool. I have no doubt that it will come in quite handy around the shop and house. For $100 I think you’ll be hard pressed to find a better value in a cordless multi-tool. Subscribers to Home Construction Improvement can download two FREE Spreadsheets: Stair Calculator Fuel BTU Calculator Related posts: Craftsman 12 Volt Lithium-Ion Auto Hammer WORX GT WG151.1 18-Volt Cordless Electric Lithium-Ion String Trimmer Fein Universal Cutting Blades

 
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Craftsman 12 Volt NEXTEC Multi-Tool Product Review