Craftsman is soon coming out with a new 19.2V C3 multi-speed impact driver that provides 3 power and speed settings for greater application and driving control.
Also coming soon: Craftsman C3 Brushless Drill Driver
The new impact driver delivers up to 1605 in-lbs of torque at 3400 IPM in its high power mode. If you don’t require full power and torque, such as when working with smaller fasteners, the low and medium speed modes can be used for greater control and reduced risk of fastener damage or over-torquing.
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Speeds (No-Load)
- Low: 0-1300 RPM
- Medium: 0-2200 RPM
- High: 0-3200 RPM
It also features a 1/4″ auto-load metal hex bit chuck for quick one-handed bit changes, and (3) built-in LED worklights for shadow-free illumination.
MSRP: $130 for the 1-battery kit
The kit comes with the 19.2V cordless impact driver, (1) 1.3Ah compact lithium ion battery pack, and a multi-chemistry battery charger. Charging time is 60 minutes.
Buy Now(Kit via Sears)
Buy Now(Bare Tool via Sears)
First Impression
Craftsman says that this new impact driver is well suited for advanced DIYers and professional tradesmen. Many professional tool brands have already brought multi-speed cordless impact drivers to market – even brushless ones – but this appears to be the first kit at the sub-$150 price point.
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The 1.3Ah and 60-minute charging time will likely limit this driver’s pro market appeal, but there is no denying that the ~1600 in-lbs of peak torque and $130 kit pricing are two very strong selling points.
John Coulston
I’m really glad to see craftsman stepped up their game. although I just gave all of my Craftsman tools away. I’m glad to see their power tools look like they’re being made with a lot more quality. or at least have higher performance in mind. hopefully their marketing team can get them at least competing on the low end. and a great tool for a professional at a low budget.
Jason
Is it a brushed motor or brushless? I don’t think I have seen any multi-speed impact’s before that are brushed. I assumed it was some kind of technical limitation.
Stuart
It’s brushed. I don’t think anyone can make a brushless and multi-speed impact at this price point.
I think we have only seen multi-speed modes on brushless impacts because of marketing reasons.
Nicholas
The compact batteries charge in a half hour not one hour just to let the readers know
Ruben
Any exact date of release? I would love to own this asap…
Stuart
“Fall 2013” is pretty vague, but typically means “before Thanksgiving.”
Porphyre
Dunno if comments “bubble to the top” or not… this is an old thread.
Tool has been released. Advertising 150 MORE in/lbs (1750). A 1 battery kit is $139 ($9 more than preview) but is currently on sale for $118.
The photos show a compact lithium battery, which is .5 hr charge time. Tool could also be combined w/ the new XCP 4ah battery (1.5 charge) for extra extra long run time.
According to UPS, mine will be here tomorrow. 🙂
Mike
I am interested in this tool as I already have two drills and a circular saw along with two chargers and three batteries. My problem is I can not find it solo, ie. without batteries and charger. Can this be purchased solo? and if so, where?
The new drill and saw that I bought have been very sufficient for my uses. They are not stellar but do a good job and for the money I have no complaints.
Thank you for your article.
Jake
I own this driver. I have never had one before but I love it! It’s very lightweight and powerful. The motor is brushed but it works just fine. I am also considering getting the dewalt equivalent to this which would be brushless. However the dewalt one is very expensive.
Kevin
I wish I could get this a a standalone tool with no battery, as I already have a bunch of those and would like to get one cheaper.