Ad-free. Influence-free. Powered by consumers.
Skip to Main ContentThe payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us.
Re-activate
At Consumer Reports, we're completing our testing of dozens of cordless drill/drivers and will be updating the Ratings soon. So far we've been impressed by a $120 model—sometimes on sale for $100—that can keep up with pricier drills. The Craftsman 17310 is a 19.2-volt drill intended for the occasional do-it-yourselfer but it probably wouldn't disappoint a more serious handyman.
The 17301 is considered a general-use drill/drivers as opposed to what we call "tougher-job drills/drivers" in that it's intended for someone who needs a range of power and torque, as opposed to what might be preferred by the serious DIYer or a contractor. We found the Craftsman compact, easy to hold, and well-balanced considering its weight of roughly six pounds.
Its two-speed gear box allows for slower speeds when driving screws, and the 24-position adjustable-torque clutch gives ample flexibility. The keyless chuck is ½-inch as with most other drills of this class, and there's a built-in LED light.
The 17310 comes with a lithium-ion battery, plus a charger that can also accept older 19.2-volt NiCad batteries—handy if you've standardized your power-tool purchases along Sears' 19.2V line. One feature we liked is a button you can press before you start working to assess charge state. (Indicators left and right of the handle light up green for fully charged.) We've so far measured a one-hour charge time and have also been impressed with this model's speed, power and run time.
Among other cordless drill Ratings categories will be impact drivers, cordless screwdrivers, and perhaps a new category of single-speed drill/drivers designated for light duty only. The results will be online and on newsstands this fall.
—Ed Perratore
Build & Buy Car Buying Service
Save thousands off MSRP with upfront dealer pricing information and a transparent car buying experience.
Get Ratings on the go and compare
while you shop
