Craftsman SAE Tool Sets: From 10 Pieces to 298
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Craftsman has been making mechanics tools for American garages for a very long time, which is one reason its sets remain a favorite first toolkit and a safe gift. Its current lineup runs from tiny single-drive socket sets you can slip into a glovebox to huge sets with hundreds of pieces, and most carry a Full Lifetime Warranty.
If you are looking for SAE sizes, the six sets below cover every budget of space and need: two small SAE-only sets for a single drive size, an 83-piece SAE and metric starter, a 298-piece tray set, and two large drawer sets with 230 and 262 pieces that include both SAE and metric.
Craftsman Mechanics Tool Sets Compared
Best for: Small SAE fasteners and tight spaces
Pros
- 1/4-inch 90-tooth ratchet
- Light at 1.1 pounds
- 6-point sockets
Cons
- SAE only
- 1/4-inch drive only
Craftsman
CRAFTSMAN Mechanics Tool Set, 298 Piece Hand Tool and Socket Set SAE/Metric (CMMT12139)
Price and specifications are read from the Amazon product page and can change.
CRAFTSMAN Mechanics Tool
Best for: Stocking an existing tool chest
Pros
- 298 pieces
- Ratcheting wrenches included
- 6- and 12-point sockets
Cons
- Plastic trays, no case
- Metric coverage unclear in specs
Best for: New DIYers needing SAE and metric basics
Pros
- 83 pieces, SAE and metric
- Compact 17-inch case
- Case fits metal storage boxes
Cons
- No 1/2-inch drive
- No wrenches listed
| Model | Pieces | Measurement | Drive Sizes | Storage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CRAFTSMAN 230 Pcs Mechanics Tool Set (CMMT45306) | 230 | SAE and metric | 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 in | 3-drawer VERSASTACK box |
| Craftsman 262-Piece Mechanic Tool Set (CMMT45309) | 262 | SAE and metric | 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 in | 3-drawer VERSASTACK box |
| CRAFTSMAN Mechanics Tool Set 83 Piece (CMMT12121) | 83 | SAE and metric | 1/4, 3/8 in | Blow mold case |
| CRAFTSMAN Mechanics Tool Set 298 Piece (CMMT12139) | 298 | SAE and metric in title; SAE in specs | 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 in | Plastic trays |
| CRAFTSMAN 10 Pc Mechanics Tool Set (CMMT34563) | 10 | SAE | 3/8 in | Blow mold case |
| CRAFTSMAN Mechanics Tool Set 11 Piece (CMMT34870) | 11 | SAE | 1/4 in | Blow mold case |
SAE Versus Metric in Plain Words
SAE sizes are measured in fractions of an inch, such as 7/16 or 1/2 inch. Metric sizes are measured in millimeters, such as 10 mm or 13 mm. The two systems do not swap neatly: a socket that is close but not exact can round off a bolt head. Many older American cars, lawn equipment, trailers and household items use SAE, while most modern cars, including many American ones, use mostly metric. That is why a new DIYer usually benefits from a set with both, and why an SAE-only set works best as an add-on for a known job.
CRAFTSMAN 230 Pcs Mechanics Tool Set for a Full SAE and Metric Garage
Craftsman
CRAFTSMAN 230 Pcs Mechanics Tool Set, Socket Wrench Set, Car Tool Kit with VERSASTACK Toolbox, SAE and Metric,1/4 in, 3/8 in, and 1/2 Drive, Short and Long Arm Hex Keys (CMMT45306)
Price and specifications are read from the Amazon product page and can change.
CRAFTSMAN 230 Pcs Mechanics Tool
Best for: Mixed SAE and metric garage work
Pros
- 230 pieces in 3-drawer box
- Three drive sizes
- 44 short and long hex keys
Cons
- 7 pounds to carry
- 72-tooth ratchets
The CRAFTSMAN 230 Pcs Mechanics Tool Set, model CMMT45306, is a large all-in-one set in a 3-drawer VERSASTACK toolbox. The listing counts 91 sockets, 3 ratchets, 21 wrenches, 44 short and long arm hex keys, 66 specialty bits and 5 accessories. It includes SAE and metric wrenches and a deep socket set across 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2-inch drives.
The low-profile ratchets are 72-tooth with a 5-degree arc swing, and their heads are up to 25% thinner to reach tight spots. A spring-loaded dial lets you open, close and lock the drawers with one hand, and a drawer stop system is mentioned in the description. VERSASTACK means the box can connect with other boxes in that Craftsman storage system. It weighs 24.7 pounds and carries a Full Lifetime Warranty.
This suits someone setting up a home garage who wants SAE and metric covered from the start. If they want 90-tooth ratchets and more sockets, the 262-piece set is the step up.
Craftsman 262-Piece Mechanic Tool Set for Maximum Socket Coverage
Craftsman
Craftsman 262-Piece Mechanic Tool Set with 3-Drawer VERSASTACK Box, SAE and Metric Socket Set, Car and Motorcycle Tool Kit with Combination Wrenches and Spark Plug Sockets, 90-Tooth (CMMT45309)
Price and specifications are read from the Amazon product page and can change.
Craftsman 262-Piece Mechanic Tool
Best for: Car and motorcycle owners wanting the most sockets
Pros
- 118 sockets
- 90-tooth ratchets
- Spark plug sockets named
Cons
- Heaviest at 27.5 pounds
The Craftsman 262-Piece Mechanic Tool Set, model CMMT45309, uses the same style of 3-drawer VERSASTACK box but packs in 118 sockets, 3 ratchets, 24 wrenches, 44 hex keys, 66 specialty bits and 7 accessories. The title names combination wrenches and spark plug sockets and describes it as a car and motorcycle kit.
Its low-profile ratchets are 90-tooth, with a 5-degree arc swing listed and heads up to 25% thinner. The box has the one-handed locking dial and removable drawers. It weighs 27.5 pounds and has a Full Lifetime Warranty.
This suits the car or motorcycle owner who wants the most sockets in a proper toolbox. People who mostly do light repairs will be fine with the 83-piece set and save space.
CRAFTSMAN Mechanics Tool Set 83 Piece (CMMT12121) for First Toolkits
The CRAFTSMAN Mechanics Tool Set, model CMMT12121, is an 83-piece SAE and metric starter. It includes low-profile 1/4 and 3/8-inch drive 72-tooth ratchets, a broad assortment of 6-point sockets, specialty bits and drive tools, with a full polish chrome finish that resists corrosion.
Everything sits in a blow mold case, a hard plastic case with a spot for each tool, which has metal hinges and is designed to fit into Craftsman metal storage boxes. The case is 17 inches long. The listing does not mention wrenches or a 1/2-inch drive. It has a Full Lifetime Warranty.
This suits a new driver or first-time homeowner who wants both measurement systems in a compact case. For big suspension bolts, a 1/2-inch drive set like the 230 or 262-piece set is needed.
CRAFTSMAN Mechanics Tool Set 298 Piece (CMMT12139) for Filling a Tool Chest
The CRAFTSMAN Mechanics Tool Set, model CMMT12139, has 298 pieces: 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2-inch drive 72-tooth ratchets, 6-point and 12-point sockets, ratcheting wrenches and drive accessories, all with a full polish chrome finish. Ratcheting wrenches have a small ratchet built into the box end, so you can keep turning without lifting the wrench off the bolt.
The tools come in plastic trays rather than a case or toolbox. The title says SAE and metric, while the specifications list SAE only, so check the socket list if metric sizes matter. The thinner-head claim applies to the 1/4 and 3/8-inch ratchets. It has a Full Lifetime Warranty.
This suits someone who already has a tool chest and wants to fill it in one go. If you need a carrying box, the 230 or 262-piece set is the better gift.
CRAFTSMAN 10 Pc Mechanics Tool Set for Quick SAE 3/8-Inch Jobs
Best for: Stocking stuffer for SAE 3/8-inch jobs
Pros
- 90-tooth low-profile ratchet
- 6-point sockets for grip
- Small blow mold case
Cons
- SAE only
- Only 10 pieces
The CRAFTSMAN 10 Pc Mechanics Tool Set, model CMMT34563, is a small SAE-only set built around one low-profile 3/8-inch drive 90-tooth ratchet and a set of 6-point sockets. Six-point sockets grip the flat sides of a bolt, which the listing says gives increased torque, meaning more turning force with less chance of slipping.
It comes in a blow mold case, measures 8.5 inches long and weighs 2.3 pounds. The finish is full polish chrome and it has a Full Lifetime Warranty.
This suits a stocking stuffer, a trailer or mower kit, or anyone who knows they need SAE sockets in the common 3/8-inch drive. It is not a complete toolkit on its own. Our 3/8-inch drive socket set guide covers more options in this size.
CRAFTSMAN Mechanics Tool Set 11 Piece (CMMT34870) for Small SAE Fasteners
The CRAFTSMAN Mechanics Tool Set, model CMMT34870, is the 1/4-inch drive sibling of the 10-piece set: 11 pieces, SAE only, with a low-profile 90-tooth ratchet and 6-point sockets. The 1/4-inch drive is best for small bolts and screws in tight places, such as interior trim, small engines and appliances.
It weighs 1.1 pounds and is 6.8 inches long, making it the most portable set here. It comes in a blow mold case, has a full polish chrome finish and carries a Full Lifetime Warranty.
This suits someone who wants a pocket-sized SAE set for small jobs, or a companion to the 10-piece 3/8-inch set. For larger bolts, it will not be enough.
How to Choose the Right Craftsman Mechanics Tool Set
Decide whether SAE alone is enough. If the tools are for an older American vehicle, a trailer, or specific household hardware known to use inch sizes, the 10 and 11-piece SAE sets are simple and affordable in space. If the person will work on a modern car, pick a set that clearly includes metric too, like the 83, 230 or 262-piece sets.
Match drive sizes to the jobs. The 1/4-inch drive is for small fasteners, 3/8-inch for most everyday work, and 1/2-inch for large, tight bolts. Only the 230, 262 and 298-piece sets cover all three.
Think about storage. The drawer boxes on the 230 and 262-piece sets are the easiest to keep organized. The blow mold cases are compact. The 298-piece set needs a chest or drawer.
Consider ratchet teeth. The 262-piece, 10-piece and 11-piece sets list 90-tooth ratchets; the others list 72-tooth. For more ideas, see our Craftsman tool set roundup.
FAQ
Which Craftsman set is SAE only?
The 10-piece (CMMT34563) and 11-piece (CMMT34870) sets are listed as SAE only. The 298-piece set’s specs say SAE, though its title says SAE and metric.
Is the Craftsman CMMT12121 a good starter set?
Yes, for light work. It has 83 pieces in SAE and metric with 1/4 and 3/8-inch drives in a compact case, though no 1/2-inch drive or wrenches are listed.
What is the difference between the 230 and 262-piece sets?
The 262-piece set has 118 sockets versus 91, 24 wrenches versus 21, and 90-tooth ratchets versus 72-tooth. Both come in a 3-drawer VERSASTACK box.
What does 90-tooth mean on a ratchet?
It is the number of teeth in the ratchet’s gear. More teeth generally let the ratchet catch with a smaller handle swing, which helps in tight spaces.
Do these sets have a warranty?
All six listings name a Full Lifetime Warranty.
