There are new Craftsman V-Series mechanics tool deals at Lowe’s, and the discounts are so huge it all seems like an impossibly good bargain.
To the average tool user or Lowe’s shopper, there are a bunch of Craftsman V-Series tools discounted as part of the retailer’s typical holiday gift center deals.
As someone who has purchased V-Series tools before, and the Facom and USAG tools these top-tier Craftsman tools are very similar and in some cases identical to, these are not typical holiday tool deals.
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Here’s a shortcut to the purchase links if you want to skip the story.
These promos deliver incredible savings! If you look closely at the signage, there are claims of huge savings. For the most part the “was” pricing is accurate.
For example, I purchased a 2pc screwdriver set for $27 at Amazon last year, for testing and vetting purposes. I had already been familiar with the standard screwdrivers, and wanted to try the ones with hex bolsters.
Today at Lowe’s, I found an 8pc of the same style of made-in-France screwdrivers, for $20.
The first Lowe’s I visited had standard and flex-head ratchets, each in 1/4″ and 3/8″ sizes, for $20 each.
The ratchet sets are even better deals. There was a 4pc ratchet set (3 flex-head, 1 stubby), 3pc extra-long flex-head ratchet set, and 3pc extra-long flex-head ratchet set with comfort grip handles, all for $60 per set.
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Just the 1/2″ XL flex-head ratchet sells for $95 by itself, but as part of this promo you can get the 3pc set with 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ sizes is $60.
Of course I bought two of the screwdriver sets.
For context, I purchased my extremely similar Facom 10pc set for the equivalent of $80 USD 4 years ago. The current price via the same overseas source is around $90, not including VAT or shipping. $20 is an excellent price for the 8pc set.
Lowe’s also has a Craftsman ratcheting screwdriver for $20. I passed on that one at first, but realized maybe I shouldn’t have – it’s selling on Amazon (directly) for $48.75. I fixed my remorse by ordering it online just now.
The 13pc SAE and 13pc metric sets are each $20.
One of the reasons I drove to a store further away is because I specifically wanted the 1/2″ socket sets, and the website said it was unavailable at my closest location.
These socket sets seemed to be in shortest supply, aside for the XL ratchet set with comfort grip handles (my store had just 1 set).
Here’s what my first haul looked like. Some of them are upgrades for my kit, and others for review.
These are far from being my only Craftsman V-Series tools – I have prior purchases mixed in with review samples.
I took a “buy first, think it through later” approach and picked up the tools I wanted or needed, not just because ToolGuyd was footing the bill, but because I know how good these deals are, and I think supplies will rapidly dwindle once others learn the same.
I couldn’t decide if I needed SAE or metric compact portable tool sets, so I bought one of each. I use a lot of SAE fasteners on fabrications, and have gotten great use out of my Wera SAE and size-specific sets over the years. I’ve been meaning to get metric Zyklop sets, but I think these might do the trick.
While at the first store, I asked two Lowe’s associates for help locating the ratcheting wrench sets, which the website said were in stock. After they told me it seemed the inventory wasn’t received yet, we got to chatting about why I was interested in the V-Series tools.
After sharing what I knew and experienced about the Craftsman V-Series line, they started planning out their own purchases.
I have a feeling that a lot of these deals are going to sell out quickly.
I visited another Lowe’s store and found a different display with the reversible ratcheting wrenches I had been looking for, plus double box end ratcheting wrenches that had a fixed 6pt box end opposite a flex end.
They also had a slightly different selection of individual ratchets,
A 1/2″ ratcheting flex-head ratchet for $20?! I already got one in my 3pc set, but I was still surprised to see this. The 3/8″ ratchets for $20 each are also fantastic values.
The second Lowe’s location also had the compact mechanics tool sets, but didn’t have the 3pc or 4pc ratchet sets, or the screwdriver sets.
The reversible wrenches – SAE or metric – are 8pc sets for $30 each, and the double box end sets have 7 pieces for $50.
When I bought the same reversible ratcheting wrench sets last year, they dropped in price from $85 to $68. They’re currently $65 to $67 at Amazon, depending on whether you want metric or SAE sets.
I had been watching the price for a while; at $30 each of course I didn’t hesitate to pick up another set.
My gut instinct tells me this is some kind of blowout clearance sale. However, the speculator in me is wondering if it’s some kind of strategic test. This is the first time since the V-series launched in the USA 3 years ago that I’ve seen them available at Lowe’s stores.
Lowe’s has over 1700 locations in the USA. If every store has 22x 3/8″ flex-head ratchets – most of the stores near me have that many of this size right now – that would be over 37,000 tools for just one SKU.
While some tools are available in greater quantities than others, it’s clear that a lot of V-Series tools – especially open stock ratchets – are involved in this new Craftsman promo. This could be a well-planned experiment, rather than a clearance blowout, to see if the V-Series product family can gain traction.
Some of the SKUs can be purchased with free shipping on $35+ orders. For the others, you might want to try ordering for in-store pickup.
If you want to see them in person first, look for the Craftsman V-Series tools at your Lowe’s store’s holiday gift center.
All Craftsman V-Series Tools on Sale Right Now:
Screwdrivers
- 8pc Screwdriver Set (Some with Hex Bolsters) – $20
- Ratcheting Screwdriver with Shafts and Bits – $20
Wrench Sets
- 8pc Metric Ratcheting Wrench Set – $30
- 8pc SAE Ratcheting Wrench Set – $30
- 7pc Metric Double Box End Wrench Set – $50
- 7pc SAE Double Box End Wrench Set – $50
Mechanics Tools and Socket Sets
- 38pc 1/4″ Metric Tool Set – $40
- 38pc 1/4″ SAE Tool Set – $40
- 18pc 3/8″ Metric Ratchet and Socket Set – $40
- 18pc 3/8″ SAE Ratchet and Socket Set – $40
- 13pc 1/2″ SAE Socket Set – $20
- 13pc 1/2″ Metric Socket Set – $20
Ratchets & Sets
- 1/4″ 80T Standard Ratchet – $20
- 1/4″ 80T Flex-Head Ratchet – $20
- 3/8″ 96T Standard Ratchet – $20
- 3/8″ 96T Flex-Head Ratchet – $20
- 1/2″ 96T Flex-Head Ratchet – $20
- 4pc Ratchet Set – $60
- 3pc XL Flex-Head Ratchet Set – $60
- 3pc XL Flex-Head Ratchet Set with Comfort Grip Handles – $60
Are These Tools Any Good?
For the most part, I see Craftsman V-Series tools as being pro-grade Facom and USAG tools under Craftsman branding for the US market. There are some differences, such as with the ratchets, but my other V-Series tools and test samples have performed very well.
These are better than the everyday Craftsman tools found in Lowe’s tool aisles.
The signage says these certain tools are longer-lasting than Snap-on. I don’t know about that, but I can tell you that I’ve had nothing but superb user experiences.
At these prices, try them for yourself while the deals last. Or don’t, and save them for the rest of us.
These tools are backed by Craftsman’s lifetime warranty. I’m not sure how that will work if these promos are somehow part of a clearance sale, but the prices were so good I’m not thinking too hard about that.
The deals seem impossible to me – high quality tools, the best Craftsman has to offer, at shockingly-low prices. If there’s a catch, I’m not seeing it.
andres solis castillo
Feels like a blowout or liquidating the unsold stock. The pricing is insanely low for such a good quality tool. The V line is underated, under-advertised, unavailable and price to high. So the sales haven’t been what Stanley B&D hoped. All this line needed was availability at store, lower pricing(match icon HF Prices) and full sets without missing sizes. I suspect they couldn’t do that due to where most of these are coming from(Facom/USAG). Those two brand are higher priced. But it’s not like the odm is pricing them. Kabo, infar ltd, and Rotar are the suppliers of Facom, but they also supply other brands at lower prices(harbor freight icon). So Stanley needs to take it’s competitors into consideration, if they want to make Craftsman the brand they uses to be at sears.
Stuart
It does seem like that, but it makes no sense that they would build up so much inventory and create holiday deals center displays for a clearance.
Home Depot and Lowe’s gift centers tend to be mostly consistent nationwide, and that requires a lot of planning and an abundance of tools. These tools were only available online until now, and at a very limited number of retailers, including Lowe’s. I very highly doubt that they’ve had tends of thousands each of different SKUs just sitting in a warehouse somewhere.
I really think this is some kind of experiment to see if lower prices could drive interest and adoption, although that too seems bold and impractical. Either way, lower prices on high-tier tools is a win for us.
Ken
The 7-piece double box end wrench sets for $50 are not described well by Lowes: “CRAFTSMAN V-Series 7-Piece Set Metric Flexible Head Ratchet Wrench”. The key piece of missing info is that these are extra-long wrenches. Craftsman’s website specifically calls these “XXL”:
https://www.craftsman.com/products/cmmt87410v
I bought the metric XXL wrench set as well as the XL flex-head ratchet set. As a DIYer, I have not previously purchased long-pattern tools because they are normally quite expensive and I try to get by with standard length wrenches and ratchets. This promo was a great chance to build out my tool set a bit more.
The only bummer about the 7-piece XXL set is that it skips 15mm and 18mm and open stock is not available to fill these gaps.
The custom displays at Lowe’s along with the “NEW LOWER PRICE” designation (instead of “clearance”) makes me think this is a planned sale rather than an inventory blow-out, but what do I know.
My store had all these items in a very organized set of “holiday” displays (as your photos show) in the seasonal section at the front of the store. With the displays full, there was only space for a handful of certain SKUs, like the 3-piece flex head ratchet set and XXL ratcheting wrench sets. That makes me think some of these items may have very limited stock.
andres solis castillo
The problem with that is that this is higher quality “premium” mechanic line. So that statement on the box is misleading, as this is most definitely not going to be priced lower then the regular Craftsman line up. Obviously is all market buzz words, exactly like the claim 30% more durable then snap on. It’s either a blow out/liquidation or a massive push to generate interest and more sales of the line. I’m will to bet it’s a liquidation as those prices seem to indicate that. Remember how cheaply they sold the USA made tools they managed to make I’m Texas? Yeah feels exactly like that.
Stuart
The Snap-on blurb seems forgivable as a quick and easy way to introduce the line to new users. I wouldn’t have went in that direction, but I also don’t know a good way to concisely introduce V-Series to users who never heard of the line or SBD’s European tool brands before.
Andres
That’s its, they had no clue how to introduce the line.
JC
Harbor Freight has jaded me and anytime someone markets their tool as a direct comparison to Snap-on, I always question the qaulity component. Cheap tools are cheap tools, no matter how they look. Kia and Hyundai have their place in the car world and honestly, their design language of late has been fantastic. At the end of the day, they are still a Kia and a Hyundai.
Heck, the stigma is so ingrained that Hyundai even tried to separate themselves from their Genesis line by getting rid of the “H” that was intially on the models and replacing it with the “wings” that they use in other countries.
Back to Craftman and their V-Line…
The ratchets are a no for me. I have a set of Snap-Ons that I have repaired several times and the ability to rebuild and replace internal components in 15 minutes or less is what does it for me. These do not look serviceable. Note that I mention I have had multiple failures with Snap-on tools.
Wrenches, sockets, and screwdriver sets have become consumables for me. I used to be religious about taking care of them but as the years wore on my “good” set of any of the three groups became a hammer in a pinch. Better yet, they became a new tool as I welded multiple wrenches together to get that one job done. I soon found myself taking the nice chrome-plated Snap-on sockets that I reserved for interior trim use to jamming on locking wheel nuts becuase the wall of the socket was the right thinness. Works the first time and wears the socket teeth down a bit… the third of fourth time with a 1/2″ impact behind it guarantees a cracked wall. That chrome-plating from 1980 always held on though. The offerings from this Craftsman V line do not look like anything special and I would not go out of my way to get any over any other box store brand like Milwaukee or Dewalt.
So, lots of Snap-on tools in my Snap-on tool box but I’m not a fan-boy. Lots of early 1980’s Craftsman, some MAC, various other American brands, and an inordiante amount of Knipex. The one thing they all have in common is that I stay away from the box store offerings for the main toolbox. Too many choices on Amazon that I did not have in the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s. Also, lots of failures through use and intial failures with Snap-On tools. Lots.
Milwaukee and Dewalt sucked me in one year and I bought a couple of their mechanics sets to give to my children as starter sets when they get older. There is definitely a preference of one over the other based on serviceability. Ask me what I keep in my truck (Milwaukee).
Take all that with a grain of salt. Nothing lasts forever but somethings let you keep them going a lot longer than others.
Goodie
Brand image can and does change. Honda,.Datsun and Toyota were regarded as cheap garbage until the mid 80s by most American drivers. Nissan built up a reputation and seems to be suffering lately. I see the Hyundai and KIA cars on an upward trajectory.
Craftsman had these challenges as well. I am happy to see the V series being well reviewed. Traditionally, the Craftsman hand tools were what built the reputation of the brand was.based uppn.
Their cordless seems to be improving as SBD updates the line.
JC
Multiple errors in editing on that last post.
Too early this Sunday morning.
Stuart
I figured I’d proofread again this morning. It took way too long to prep the post last night and I weighed the need to be perfect vs letting regulars know when they start the day.
With some of these SKUs, a few hours could mean the difference between “yes I got the deal” to “aww shucks it already sold out in my area.”
JC
It wasn’t you, it was me. My post had mutiple errors.
Honestly, you do a fine job with your editing.
Stuart
Oh. Whoops. Don’t fret, I didn’t notice any. In any case I tightened up a few “does that sound right??” parts and found one egregious error where I swapped Craftsman for Lowe’s by mistake.
Derek
I have a set of the 1/4” set in each of our cars gloveboxes. They’re great and I almost want to buy another to keep in the house but I have the Wera Toolcheck for that.
Might have to go pickup some flex ratchets as I don’t have any of those.
For what it’s worth, these are the similar prices as the Stanley Black and Decker family and friends tool prices in winter of 2023.
Derek
Looking at this I might pick up a 3/8” kit now too for the cars. Can’t see how big they are on the Lowe’s site.
Marc
I tried to purchase a number of items from the sale. I do not have a Lowes nearby (1 1/2 hours plus to my nearest Lowes). I tried ordering the items online, but for a total order of $120 they wanted $80 in shipping. I know the items are on sale, but the $80 seemed a bit outrageous. I tried calling but the person I talked to was pretty helpless. Oh well I guess I’ll pass. But thanks for letting me know.
Stuart
When you see a $79 fee, that’s a “deliver to your home from the store” charge. It basically means it’s only in stock at your local Lowe’s stores.
Sometimes the fee is down to $15. I checked again, and a lot of these items are eligible for shipping and even free shipping, but some are only available in stores.
Marc
a) Their definition of Local leaves a bit to be desired (1 1/2 hr travel one-way); and
b) the website is very opaque about delivery options and meanings – no where does it say “delivery from store”. The only option I can select is “Scheduled Delivery”, and for an $80 purchase they are charging $79 to deliver.
Stuart
That’s not their definition, it’s mine. As far as I’ve seen, there’s no official explanation as to why some items ship for free and others for $79, and so I made one up based on observations and contexts about how this typically relates to in-store-only merchandise.
Scottie
Stuart,I tried to do the Craftsman warranty through Craftsman.com and it didn’t work for me.I bought a set of the 1/2 drive metric sockets and it had two 20 MM sockets in the set.It was missing the 19 MM socket.So I emailed Craftsman and explained my problem as I thought they could just send me a 19 MM socket in the mail as it was their fault to begin with not Lowes….This didn’t t have anything to do with Lowes,they are just the seller.Well I thought wrong.Craftsman responded back and told me to take the set back to Lowes and exchange it out.Well I tried to explain to them that my local store didn’t have another in stock,like the problem you had.And why should I have to drive all over trying to locate another set?Craftsman didn’t respond anymore after that first response to me.They left me hanging…..Thankfully Lowes hooked me up and took the set back and refunded my money….I still want the set but with the way Craftsman treated me I don’t think I’ll be buying anymore of the new Stanley/Black & Decker Craftsman stuff.
Dave
Sounds like you were trying to get a free 19 mm socket. They handled your inquiry appropriately.
Andres
I don’t understand people, the warranty clearly states you have to warranty via approved partners, aka lowes. After that you have the options to try another store like ACE or call the warranty craftsman number. Also why is he complaining when they get a refund 🤔.
Mark. M
Man I was in on those XL comfort grip ratchets and few of the less expensive items but Lowe’s shipping/delivery is all over the place. One combination was $79, the other was $15 but it wasn’t clear if it was actually in stock (“1 Available” has never worked out anywhere, in my experience), so I gave up. I’ll still try a local store on my way to work tomorrow but eyeroll for a typical Lowe’s website experience.
Mark. M
For anyone considering one of the ratchets, I’ll add that I have a 1/2″ drive flex head, comfort grip that’s kind of a weird not stubby/not long length. It was an online order and when it showed up I was like ‘mehhh’, has a great finish and mechanism but the head is big the the length was weird. BUT, strangely, I grab for that thing all the time. Just my experience but it’s enough to make me kinda want to track down a set.
James farmer
I think if you sign up as a Lowe’s member shipping is free I order the v serie XXL SAE double box end ratcheting wrenches and the shipping was free and I live in Alaska .
Charles
I got a set of those metric reversible wrenches last week I like them for $30. The ratchets are not rebuildable.
MattT
My local Lowe’s stores are handling this sale in a strange way.
I visited both and neither had those floor displays in your photos out or any of these tools on obvious display. At the second store I asked the red vest working the tool section where they are, because they showed in stock. He said they were basically being fulfilled as warehouse items and to get them customers had to order them online for local pickup, with a wait time of under 1/2 hour usually.
So I did that and, yeah, from order to ready for pickup was about 25 minutes. I had other things to do and didn’t want to stand round, so I’ll stop back later to pick them up.
It’s a strange and rather buyer-unfriendly way to be handling this sale, but I guess that’s not too off-brand for Lowe’s.
Stuart
Is your store smaller than others? I have noticed that Lowe’s Gift Centers can vary wildly between stores – that’s why I tend to visit at least 2-3 stores every holiday season, otherwise I miss a bunch of a promos.
MattT
Probably. I just realized today that the Lowe’s I ordered from is the only one of the two that sets up the gift center displays at all. But they don’t have anything for this tool clearance. And checking online, the other store was showing no stock on the ratchets I did get.
Frankly, I’m surprised this town can support two Lowe’s, with a Home Depot and two large Menards as well.
928'er
Tried to buy the 8 pc metric ratchet wrenches & the 7 pc XL metric flex head ratchet wrenches.
Both out of stock for me… Lowes says they’ll notify me when they are back in stock – we’ll see if they honor the sale pricing…
928'er
Didn’t get any notification from Lowes, but just checked their site again and both sets were available. Pulled the trigger and within minutes got a text that both sets were ready for pick-up.
So, if you, initially, got an “out of stock” response, it might be worth checking back. Apparently their “notification” process is either very slow or not working at all…
928'er
Just picked up my wrench sets from Lowes.
Unfortunately, both sets skip 15 mm – Which, if you’ve ever worked on a Porsche, you will know that 15 mm is a very common size…
Evan
Tried ordering the XL ratchet set but was sold out – managed to snag the ratcheting screwdriver and 4 piece ratchet set though. Thank you Stuart!
Chris
“Longer life compared to snap-on”
That made me chuckle. I’d be curious to see what their “mechanic lab challenge includes”
Harry
You couldn’t have waited a few more days to write about this? Now, what little was left will be nonexistent.
I couldn’t find any of the ratcheting wrenches in my area.
SBD screwed up the launch of the Craftsman V Series beyond recognition. Maybe it was because they were trying to make Craftsman in the USA again, they didn’t know where the V Series would fit in their master tool plan, or some other reason but, it’s really a shame. The V series tools are well made, durable stuff, It’s nicely finished and a bargain compared to the FACOM/USAG versions of the same tool. Most tools in the line up are made in Taiwan. The screwdrivers, ratcheting screwdriver, flush cuts, and pliers wrench are made in France. I feel SBD screwed the pooch by developing separate ratchets for the Craftsman V series instead of cloning FACOM/USAG versions. It’s a love-hate relationship between me and my V series ratchets. I can barely get past the you can’t disassemble them for lube/cleaning/whatever reason. However, they’re thick headed and have probably the highest back drag of any ratchet sold anywhere today but, they’re built like a tank. The size of the comfort grip handle on the extra long 1/4 drive flex head ratchet is comical. A mere two inches on an over nine inch long ratchet.
Lastly, skipping 15 & 18 mm in a ratcheting wrench set is unforgivable. How hard can it be to make a 10-19 mm ratcheting wrench set? I’m off to Lowes in the morning to see if I can find the extra long metal handle ratchet set. I got everything else I was interested in. The 8 piece screwdriver set and the compact 1/4 drive sets were probably the best deals for me. I would hate to see the V Series end its short life in holiday cardboard end cap sales when it could be so much more.
Stuart
It was only a matter of time – it looks like news is now spreading all over social media. I figured an early heads-up would increase the chances readers would find the deals in stock.
MattT
Yeah, when I stopped in around noon the employee I talked to said I was the fifth or sixth guy so far today looking for these deals.
Nathan
The ratcheting wrenches don’t appeal to me. Missing sizes on both sets but to be fair putting both together helps. 5/8 replacing a 15mm. Etc. But I don’t like their 6 flat box end.
The ratchets are supposedly good I’m in the market for a new 1/2 drive.
Sam dC
Might be too good to be true. The Lowes’s website said my local store had them in stock, but when I went there no V-Series were to be found anywhere. Returning home, I placed the order online for pickup. Several house later I got a phone cal explaining they were supposed to be delivered to the store tonight, and Lowes’s management didn’t want to see orders unfulfilled in time. I was given the choice of letting them report it had been fulfilled and hopefully picking it up tomorrow (assuming they actually get deliveries). Or cancelling the order and resubmitting it tomorrow. I chose the latter. Lowes’s management doesn’t seem to be concerned the real problem is their website reporting something is in stock when it wasn’t. I’ve stopped shopping at other places due to that.
Dave P
Well, after the Craftsman JUNK they have been peddling, I was skeptical but early this morning right as they were opening, I made a trip to Lowe’s. The quality of the V series certainly appeared to be light years ahead of the normal Craftman junk Lowe’s sells.
The xxl pattern box end wrenches skipped common sizes- makes them worthless. The 1/2” drive sockets were a very good deal, as were the long-handled flex ratchets and I purchased accordingly and really appreciate the early heads up.
The reversible ratcheting combination end wrenches didn’t lack as common of sizes as the xxl pattern box end wrenches but they were still incomplete sets so I again passed.
All in all, worth the trip. Thank you.
Matt
This is old Sears Craftsman pricing for higher quality tools in 2024. Here’s hoping my local Lowe’s actually has them in stock like they claim, cause the orders are placed! Thank you!
Stuart
Sears Craftsman Pro tools of this caliber weren’t this inexpensive.
Good luck! Hopefully it works out well for you. I’ll see if I can learn more about what’s going on here.
Andres
I think he’s talking about the deals sears had right before they closed. Remember they had a point system and had huge sales month to month?
Lots of people still remember those prices and used them as examples of what craftsman used to cost.
Stuart
Oh. I had stopped spending a dime at Sears by then, and all the Craftsman Pro and USA-made tools had long-disappeared.
Matt
No we agree! Craftsman Pro quality tools but at the price of regular Craftsman circa 2010. Ah the days of USA made $20 (on sale) socket sets.
Lowes says they have my order ready, so thank you and fingers crossed!
A W
Thanks Stuart,
Placed an online order for some of the last in stock 1/2″ sockets and xl ratchets at my local Lowes. Fingers crossed for tomorrow.
Rob H
Placed an order on Saturday with “3 hour pickup” and finally went to the store today to check on the order. Was told they haven’t put the Christmas sale stuff out yet, it would probably go out tomorrow. Was also told my order would be held and fulfilled when the displays went up. Then about 3 hours later got a cancellation email saying they didn’t have stock. Typical Lowe’s shenanigans.
Jared
These V-series tools are great. I would buy LOTS if these were similarly-priced in Canada. Sadly Rona (owned by Lowes) doesn’t seem to carry the V-series tools here.
Fortunately, Princess Auto has some V-series in the surplus section right now. They’ve got metric and SAE 3/8″ socket sets, a 1/2″ drive flex head ratchet and the SAE non-ratcheting wrench set. It’s been trickling in, so perhaps there’s more to come – and the prices are great! E.g. the CMMT87300V was $38.99 recently.
Also, a bunch of random Proto tools have shown up too. There’s a couple torque wrenches, a tool chest, a couple impact guns, and an air ratchet right now. I got a bunch of the mechanics screwdrivers recently. There were a LOT of tether accessories for awhile, but I had no need for those. Oh – and there’s an insulated Facom ratchet set too! All radically lower than MSRP.
Algon
Purchased several! Those combo wrenches are awesome.
Evan
TLDR Update: Back in stock for me. How will I use these as a DIY person?
I checked again this morning and several items are back in stock. In addition to the 4-piece ratchet set and ratcheting screwdriver I ordered yesterday I just placed an order for both 1/2″ socket sets, both ratcheting wrench sets, both double box end sets, and the 3-piece XL flex-head ratchet set.
I mostly do woodworking and carpentry but have started to get into DIY car mechanic work. I have done oil changes, brake pads and rotors, o2 sensors, etc for my 2 cars and friends/family cars. I have never used a flex head, double box end, or ratcheting wrench set before, and typically just use the harbor freight ratchets and torque wrench I picked up years ago. I jumped on these because my future self often thanks my past self for buying a quality discounted tool that Stuart recommends here on Toolguyd (thank you!) Invariably I use my tools soon after I buy them.
Can someone help me understand when I should reach for these new tools? Will it make things I already do easier? Should I branch out and tackle new jobs?
You all are awesome, thank you!
Ken
I bought the metric XXL double box end set and the XL flex-head ratchet set. I have had quite a few experiences where I needed more leverage to remove a stubborn fastener, and these long pattern tools will help with that. The flex head just makes them even more versatile.
As a DIYer, I did NOT buy the SAE double box end set. I already have SAE wrenches and don’t think I’ve ever needed them for automotive work because all American manufacturers have used metric for decades. I do use the SAE wrenches for household stuff because SAE fasteners are still common in other applications. But no need for an XXL double box end flex head ratcheting wrench set in SAE unless you know you will be using it for specific old American vehicles, IMO.
Evan
Hi Ken! I also ordered a set each, and you make helpful points about removing stubborn fasteners. I did not realize that American manufacturers use metric, and I looked up my current cars (Honda and Subaru), and both seem to use metric as well. I think your points put the SAE double box end set on the top of my possible return list as I have no plans to use on older American vehicles. Thank you for your helpful reply!
Derek
I’ve used ratcheting wrenches on a ton of woodworking machinery assembly and repair. I can certainly see the flex head ratchets coming in handy on woodworking tools and certainly on car repairs.
The added length on ratchets is great. I have a long 3/8″ Snap-on ratchet I bought used and I’ve broken loose lots of bolts I would have struggled on with a regular length ratchet. Obviously I could step up to 1/2 or impact tools if I have the space but it’s nice not having to bring out multiples in different sizes.
Evan
Hi Derek! I never thought about needing them on woodworking machinery, but I am planning to build a shop in the next 2-3 years once I own property and move out of my off-grid yurt. My shop will likely have some larger machinery like a full table saw and planer, so could be helpful there. Thank you for putting this idea in my head!
Jared
The difference between budget tools and premium tools isn’t as wide as it once was. There are appreciable differences, but in most cases you can do similar work whether, for example, you’re using Craftsman lobster claw wrenches or premium V-series versions.
You might be able to fit a premium wrench somewhere the cheap version can’t, get a little more torque out of a fastener before it rounds over or just enjoy the experience a bit more – but it’s probably not going to allow you to do radically different things than you could before.
I say that even though I’m really enthused about the V-series tools. When you’re spinning wrenches for money, the occasional time you can move a fastener versus rounding it over is worth buying quality tools. However, when they’re this cheap, why not pick the premium option – even as a DIYer?
Evan
Hi Jared! That is super helpful to know. This makes sense why I have been able to do everything I need with my HF tools (I did break 1 small 3/8″ ratchet, and split a few of their sockets, but no big deal). Your last point is what really made me buy these sets – for the same price I would much rather have the V-series quality! I can grow into the tools this way and not need to keep replacing things that break.
Stuart
I mainly use my mechanics tools on fabrications, assemblies, machinery, and similar, and on light car maintenance or repair tasks.
The XL double box wrenches are the only ones I was unsure about whether or not I’d benefit from, but I figured it’s worth a try, at the least for the extra reach and also for the 6pt box ends.
Hold onto your receipt. Within the return period, buyer’s remorse is usually easily remedied at the expense of your time. If you’re on the fence and miss out on a deal, getting tools of the same caliber will cost you quite a bit more money.
I also tend to apply a similar “buy now, deliberate later” mentality to deals of the day and flash sales.
Evan
Hi Stuart! It sounds like the XL double box wrenches are at the top of my return list – at least the SAE ones, as they are the least likely to be used based on comments thus far. I actually adopted your approach (buy now and have time to think about returns) after missing out on some deals in the last year or two because I hesitated. Thank you for giving me the idea to buy quickly and think about returns, it has helped me a lot with getting some of these great deals!
Dave P
Any SAE set stopping before 3/4 “ is pretty much worthless and in this case still overpriced. Who EVER needs an xxl pattern 5/16”? They include it because it’s little and therefore cheap. Worthless set
Evan
Thank you Dave! I will take a close look at all of the SAE items I purchased and consider returning, especially the XL double box wrenches.
MM
I have accumulated many styles of wrenches of the years. I’ve often talked with friends or co-workers about a hypothetical situation: if all the wrenches you had disappeared which type would you prioritize buying first?
I can’t pick one single style to answer that question. The types I find myself using the most, and would be vying for my first place pick are: traditional non-ratcheting combination wrenches (long pattern), ratcheting flex-head combination, and the extra-long ratcheting double box end.
Others that I think are important for special applications: Offset box end, stubby, and flare-nut styles.
I’ve personally never found a purpose for double-box end wrenches unless they also happen to overlap with some other specialty like the offset or extra-long flex ratcheting type.
Jared
That’s a fun thought exercise.
1. I’d go regular, non-ratcheting combination wrenches first. Probably long pattern, but not XL. The CMMT87325V V-series set might even be my first choice (though those aren’t long pattern) since they’re nice enough that I wouldn’t need to upgrade later, yet I could save some more budget for wrench set #2. Plus, I love the case.
2. Then some quality, standard-length reversible, offset ratcheting wrenches. Likely Proto black chrome ASD spline wrenches, like I use now. Those things are great.
Another nod to the V-series though – I use my CMMT87375V set, maybe even more than my Protos. The only reason I wouldn’t pick it is because of all the skips. It would drive me nuts if that was my only ratcheting wrench set.
3. Extra-long ratcheting double box end is also on my list. Assuming you mean, like I do, where both ends are the same size, but only one ratchets. That way you can break something free with the fixed end and take it off quicker with the ratchet.
Unlike you though, I almost never use my flex-head wrenches.
I’d pick flare nut for #4 maybe – but really, I’m using one of those three I listed like 98% of the time.
Stuart
I: long pattern non-ratcheting combo wrenches
II: ratcheting wrenches
III: flex-head ratcheting wrenches
4th, 5th, 6th, etc: specialty problem-solvers.
There is such as thing as too much. I bought a Sunex set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000XW7XBE/?tag=toolguyd-20 in 2015 (wow has it been that long?!?) and never use them.
According to Amazon, I paid $25.59 before tax.
My deep offset wrenches are rarely needed, but on occasion they can save me considerable time or effort. I last posted about them nearly 11 years ago – https://14cyiuhvcgv.com/deep-offset-wrench-saved-the-day/%3C/a%3E .
Dave P
Deep offset wrenches are very often needed in mechanic/farm/industrial use. I’d say as much for sure or maybe even more than a standard box end. I have probably 15 sets in various trucks, machines, and buildings plus a really good set in my main shop. They are invaluable for anyone making a living keeping big machines running.
928'er
My philosophy on tools is: better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
PKS319
Hope this is helpful – but I just ordered several sets for Xmas gifts (they were not in stock locally) and like others I found that the $79 delivery fee was mandatory, no matter what you put in your cart. I found that the item being charged the scheduled delivery fee (rather than free home delivery) shifted around, depending on what your order. So my guess is that this is basically a base charge to get in on the sale. Order more and the delivery charge is less of a deal breaker, but still a pretty nasty little trick,
Stuart
The shipping or delivery methods and fees look to be based on availability.
For me, the ratcheting screwdriver is available with free shipping (it says there are 3 available) or $15 same-day delivery.
For the metric 1/2″ socket set, I can only “get it tomorrow” for $79. They switched the pickup inventory checker to “visit store for availability.”
For the 8pc metric ratcheting wrench set, it’s “get it today” with a $15 delivery fee, and online ordering for in-store pickup is also enabled.
The 8pc screwdriver set is similar – $15 local delivery or in-store pickup.
There are no base charges, it all depends on what you’re ordering, and where they have it in stock. It looks to me like there’s virtually no inventory allocated for online ordering fulfillment, most of the tools are only going to be available for in-store pickup or fee-based store-to-home delivery, similar to if you were to buy construction materials.
Sam dC
Tried to order again this morning, this time only a cancellation email within 2 1/2 hours and “OUT OF STOCK ITEM(S)”.
Sam dC
I ended up trying a second (not as close). They were there, out with the other Christmas specials.
Paul Harden
I stopped by a local Lowes and none of the Craftsman sale items had been unpacked yet. It appears that the shipping boxes were waiting to be unloaded. Other brands had been unpacked
Mark. M
Made a second attempt at a more suburban Lowes. The holiday tool section was interesting…they had it roped off putting up signage, like it was almost still in set-up mode, but the row with the sockets, ratchets, and screwdrivers looked to be pretty picked over already. The associates were extremely helpful and stopped their overhead sign work to let me in, was able to score the last XL comfort grip set, a 4pc flex-head set and the ratcheting screwdriver. My best holiday score to date was the Gorilla ladder platform thing for like $21, bought 3 and gave 2 as gifts. I think these ratchets especially will go into that category of screaming deals.
Harry
The three nearby Lowes received another shipment yesterday so, I was able to grab the ratcheting wrench sets I wanted. I don’t think they’ll last long though.
SteveP
I was in my local Lowe’s yesterday to pick up an order, but I could not find these sale V Series tools anywhere. No, I didn’t ask – that always results in sadness after wandering around with an Associate for ten minutes (Don’t you love it how HD hides stuff on pallets way up in the cribs?) They do have a lot of stock in boxes just piled up randomly, so I suspect some of the promotions are still awaiting unboxing
I used the links provided to order a few for pickup at the same store – the “system” says in stock so we will see if and when they manage to find them for me 🙂
Jason
Same at the store near me. Not a single v-series in sight, and not even available for pickup. Way to go Lowe’s…
Vards Uzvards
A week ago I was looking for the 8-pack of V-series screwdrivers, and Lowe’s web site was showing it as unavailable in all stores nearby. Last night I checked again, and one set was available in the second nearest store. I placed an order, it was accepted (got a $5 price reduction, in “Lowe’s bucks”, too), and then in the morning got notification that my order was ready for pick-up. Who-hoo! Got the screwdrivers and hour ago 🙂
Chris
Canceled my order…
Chris
Ace did, that is.
Stuart
Sorry to hear that.
The 3pc XL comfort grip ratchet set dropped to $60 at Amazon overnight the other day, with a mid-November ETA. I checked back in the morning and they took away the price and ordering capability.
Chris
Reordered but ship to home vs ace pickup. Curious to see if this goes through either. They still have the deal up on the site so who knows what is happening. I. Particular I am trying to get the metric travel toolkit for my car trunk. If it gets cancelled again I will update 🙂
cHrisH
Thanks so much for the heads up on this, Stuart! Foolishly, I read it the morning you published, but waited until that evening to visit Lowe’s site, at which point, several items were sold out. But the tools I did buy were great deals and shipped free.
As others note, it’s worth checking back on Lowe’s website; I’ve since found tools that sold out day-of (though this time only with in-store pickup or $79 shipping) despite not receiving email notification that the items were back in stock.
A few initial impressions for anyone considering buying:
(TLDR: I bought 1/4″ and 1/2″ flex ratchets, and 1/4″ and 3/8″ ratchet/socket sets. They’re not perfect, and I wouldn’t pay list, but they’re really nice, and at these prices, seem like a fantastic value.)
Disclaimer: I’m not a pro and haven’t yet spent a ton of time using these.
1/4″ and 1/2″ flex head ratchets:
-insane deal, especially for a quality 1/2″ flex
-directional levers shift nicely and sit flush to ratchet surface
-heads move smoothly and resistance is just right
-ratcheting is smooth and 1/2″ has pretty high tooth-count
Nitpicks:
-super bummer that you can’t disassemble the heads
-personally, I don’t like the knurling; feels uncomfortable without gloves and harder to clean
-backdrag on 1/4″ is pretty significant
3/8″ Metric Ratchet/Socket Set
-love the compact case size; great for the car or on-the-go toolbag
-ratchet is solid, and comfort grip feels good in the hand
-really nice to get a pair of locking extensions and a universal joint
-8–22mm socket spread is perfect for a compact kit
-socket retention in the case is great; easy in/out, and uses round pegs so you don’t have to line up the square drive
Nitpicks:
-can’t disassemble the ratchet head
-wish the case had socket size labels (though easy to fix with a sharpie)
-if it had a 20mm socket, it would be no-skip. I’ve never encountered a 20mm bolt, but now I’m certain to run into one while using the kit
-the case uses the long extension as a handle and has holes in the top, ostensibly to let you see if anything’s missing. This kinda works for big sockets, but you can’t really see the small ones, and I’d much rather have everything enclosed to protect the tools.
-the case could’ve been even more compact if they eliminated a handle entirely
1/4″ Metric Ratchet/Socket Set
-super compact; easily fits in glove box, center console, junk drawer, etc.
-5.5–14 no-skip socket range is perfect for a 1/4″ kit
-really comfortable, nearly full-size driver handle w/ great grip
-nicer-than-average ratchet for a kit
-good range of bits, which pop up via spring-loaded holder for easy access
-good fitment on bits and sockets
-includes two extensions and a universal
-I’d never pay the $100 list, but seems a very solid value at $40
Nitpicks:
-again, can’t disassemble ratchet and I don’t love the handle knurling (looks like SAE version has a comfort-grip)
-seems like ratchet should snap into the case, but it doesn’t; kit ships with two flimsy removable plastic pieces that keep ratchet from sliding around; maybe SAE snaps in?
-the case labels socket sizes under the sockets (so you can’t read size without removing the socket; I’d prefer labels on the outside (again, can fix w/ a sharpie)
-size labels on sockets are hard to read
-bit holders have icon labels, but I’d prefer numbers (e.g., instead of seven torx icons, label them T25, T27, etc.
Thanks again for flagging this sale, Stuart!
Vards Uzvards
Apparently, there is a metric hex-nut driver set available on-line, at a good discount, too.
https://www.lowes.com/pd/CRAFTSMAN-CM-6PC-Nut-Driver-Set-MM/5005345509
It is not available in any of the local stores, but I was able to order for a local pick-up on 11/19.
DT
The selection of half price V-series tools has expanded to include all varieties of socket sets (rails and case) and the French-made pliers wrench.
Vards Uzvards
The two screwdriver set – slotted and Phillips, with bolsters – is $7.49 now, orderable on-line.
https://www.lowes.com/pd/CRAFTSMAN-Craftsman-V-Series-2pc-Screwdriver-Set/5005899875
Stuart
There are other new deals as well, mostly online-only.
This is starting to look like a clearance sale.
I asked Craftsman what’s going on with the V-Series line but haven’t heard back yet. Buy ’em while you can?
Larry H
I see the 8 piece screwdriver set is out of stock at Lowe’s. It would be tempting if it was available, even at the regular price of $19.98.
Larry H
Ace has the same 8 piece set (Model #CMHT65618V) for $62.98 (was $74.98, Save 16%). Looks like they didn’t get the clearance sale memo??
heather
Any word yet as to if this is a clearance sale? I’m finding it hard not to believe that it is.
I know some aren’t a fan of the ratchets, but I absolutely love the metal grip. Really hoping it isn’t a discontinuation. Maybe I can make it back to Lowe’s and find a few more. I bought the flex head sets earlier on. Thinking I’d like the straight set but doubting those are still available.
Stuart
No news or updates yet.
Jack D
So I was just checking out my local store, and now they have a yellow 14.99 tage on them. Not sure if that bodes well for the line. Thinking of picking up the flex heads now…
Paul Harden
I just stopped in a Lowe’s earlier this evening and the V-series ratchets were marked down to $14.98 for the 3/8” ratchets and I think $16.98 for the 1/2 “ ones . As I couldn’t resist a deal I picked up a3/8” flex head ratchet.
Chris
Does anybody know if there is a facom crossover of those double box end ratcheting wrenches?