Over at Amazon, today’s tool deal of the day special is this Black & Decker Matrix combo set, that comes with a 20V Max power base and 6 tool attachments.
Black & Decker’s line of Matrix power tools, like Craftsman’s Bolt-On System (which is made by Black & Decker), are modular tools that allow you to attach different types of power tool heads to different base handles.
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Black & Decker’s Matrix modular tools are compact and cost-effective, well suited for DIYers who might not have the budget or need for fully-featured standalone tools.
- Drill/driver
- Sander
- Jig saw
- Oscillating multi-tool
- Router
- Impact Driver
Sale Price: $149
When this Black & Decker Matrix tool combo set came out in 2014, I noted a price of $203. I’ve checked the price on it every so often, and it has always remained a little over $200. So with this deal, you’re saving about 25% off the regular price.
Buy Now(via Amazon)
Deal ends at 3am 6/17, unless supplies sell out sooner.
We first posted about this deal on 11/23/2015, and reposted it now on 6/16/2016 when the deal returned for Father’s Day.
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If you’re reading ToolGuyd, chances are that you’re a dedicated tool kind of user, but that might not be true. I’ve tested Bolt-On and Matrix tools, and think they’re pretty decent, but I have yet to use them for personal projects or even everyday-type use.
I simply prefer dedicated tools much more, but then again my sander, jig saw, oscillating multi-tool, and router, all corded tools, cost more – each- than the $149 for this set. My cordless drill and impact driver costs more to buy it new.
If I were buying power tools for a friend of family member looking to get started with DIY projects or woodworking, this set would receive very strong consideration for its capabilities and bang for the buck.
Alternatively, as a gift, I might have instead bought a Black & Decker Matrix starter set plus a circular trim saw attachment. There’s also another Matrix drill and impact driver starter set. Unfortunately, these tools don’t seem to be eligible for Amazon’s $10 off $50+ promo.
Carmen
I’m currently beating the crap out of my Bolt-On system building a table out of a beer barrel. Aside from borrowing a Sawz-all from a neighbor it’s the only power tool I have available. So far I’ve used the drill, impact driver, sander, and jig saw attachments and I’ve had no complaints what so ever with the tool’s performance. Table’s almost done and it’s looking great. I’m sure there’s better performing tools out there but the Bolt-On has served me very well.
adam
I second these tools, and I even own a set of M18 Fuels. We had a majority of the attachments for the entire build of a new house, and held up well. This set though, has some tool heads I really wouldn’t need (router & sander).
Now, it isn’t near the power, but for a homeowner it is great. The single speed drill chuck that comes with it is a joke really, you need to get the 2-speed hammer drill attachment. The trim saw is very convenient for thin materials. I also purchased the Craftsman Bolt-on Scissors which are very handy when they are applicable.
The only attachment I’d for sure skip is the hedge trimmers. They work great for 10-15 minutes each (2 different cutting blades) and then they lose their cutting ability and are a joke.
Frank
How well does the jigsaw attachment work? I always find myself working in the yard and needing quick sawing on wood. And the batteries?
Sean
All of your corded tools cost over $149? Are they all Festool? I know there are sanders, jig saws, and oscillating tools that cost over $149, but they better be substantially better than the cheaper models if I’m going to pay that. Oscillating tools are definitely overpriced at the moment because they’re a newer category, but I’m guessing they’ll drop down in the next few years.
Stuart
My Bosch jig saw was $86 back in 2007 as part of an Amazon Friday tool deal (gosh I miss those), but would cost me over $150 to replace with a comparable performance unit today.
Router? Bosch-made Craftsman, would be $219 to replace with Bosch model
Oscillating Tool? Fein MultiMaster is $199 for the Start kit, although if I had to replace it I would buy the limited edition Systainer kit version.
Sander: I upgrade my Bosch 1/4 sheet and Ridgid ROS with a Festool sander, so… yeah, >$150.
Sean
By the way, any one have experience with both these modular tools and Ridgid Jobmax? Want to compare?
The Jobmax design has a straight power unit, which kind of makes sense, because the oscillating tool ends up being “normal. The drills end up being compact right angle drills, which is both good and bad. It is less common than that regular drill you likely have sitting around and could be useful, but if you plan to use it for all of your regular drilling, you’re going to dislike it.
The Matrix system seems a little bulkier (and definitely goofier) but it also seems more ergonomic for most of the attachments.
Any comments?
Ed
I’ve been using the Matrix for a while now and have three (one new and two old). I’m a D.I.Y. guy with out much space to put big tools so this system worked out great for me, every thing in one bag. I’ve got every attachment but the hedge trimmers, cut-off tool, and scissors. I use it quite a bit. I will admit that I did have to supplement it with a B&D 20v Circular Saw for quick 2×4 cuts/angle cuts and a Blade Runner X2 for when I needed more control.