Here’s a summary of the CRAFTSMAN 3/8‑in Electric Drill/Driver (Model CMED731) — what it is, its specs, its advantages & drawbacks, and what to consider if you’re thinking of using or buying one (especially locally).
What It Is
- The Craftsman 3/8‑inch Electric Drill/Driver CMED731 is a corded drill (not battery powered) intended for medium‑duty drilling and driving tasks.
- It has a 3/8‑inch chuck, which is a common size, letting you use a wide variety of drill bits.
Key Specifications
Here are the main specs and features of the CMED731 model:
| Spec | Value / Detail |
|---|---|
| Motor / Power | 7.0‑amp motor. |
| Chuck | 3/8‑inch, keyless chuck for quick bit changes. |
| Speed | Up to 2,500 RPM with variable speed trigger. |
| Trigger & Controls | Variable speed trigger + lock‑on trigger (so you can keep the trigger locked for continuous operation). |
| Reversibility | Forward / reverse switch for changing drilling direction. |
| Size / Physical Dimensions | Roughly 10.3‑11.3 in in length/height (varies by source), width around 3‑3.1 in, weight approx 4.1‑4.2 lb. |
| Cord / Power Source | Corded electric — comes with a power cord (manufacturers list a ~6 ft cord in some listings) and needs continuous power from mains. |
| Warranty | 3‑year limited warranty. |
Advantages / What It’s Good At
Here are the strong points and what this drill does well:
- Consistent Power — Being corded, you’re not limited by battery life; as long as you’ve got power, you have full motor performance.
- Good Motor Strength — 7 amps is decent for a corded 3/8‑inch drill; suitable for drilling holes in wood, light metal, working with screws, etc.
- High RPM — Up to 2,500 RPM gives fairly strong drilling speed, especially useful for smaller diameter holes or for tasks where speed matters.
- Ease of Bit Change — Keyless chuck simplifies switching out bits quickly without needing a chuck key.
- Comfort Features — Lock‑on trigger for extended operations helps reduce fatigue when drilling many holes in succession or in prolonged use.
- Durability — Corded drills typically have less concern about battery degradation, so long term use might be more straightforward.
Limitations / What to Watch Out For
Also, some trade‑offs or limitations:
- Corded Limitations — You need access to power; extension cords may be needed; less portable compared to cordless models.
- No Torque Control / Clutch — As far as I’ve found, this model does not have a torque clutch (as found in many cordless drills) to prevent overdriving screws or damaging materials. This makes it less ideal for screw driving tasks where precision torque matters.
- Weight & Size — ~4+ lbs and over 10 inches long — this is a substantial tool; for overhead work or tight spaces, it may be tiring or harder to maneuver.
- Brush / Motor Wear — It uses a brushed motor (standard for corded tools in this class). Over time brushes, bearings etc. will wear; maintenance may be needed.
- Heat under Load — As with many corded drills, sustained heavy work (large holes, hard material) can cause heat build‑up; ventilation, rest intervals etc. become important.
- Chuck Grip — With any keyless chuck, if not tightened well, bits may slip under heavy torque. Good tightening by hand is needed.
Use Cases / Good Fit
This drill is best suited for:
- Homeowners or DIYers who often drill in wood, metal, plastic, or similar materials in workshops, garages, or at home where access to mains power is easy.
- Tasks like hanging shelves, making holes for fasteners, drilling pilot holes, maybe light to moderate fastening.
- Situations where battery tools aren’t sufficient or you’d prefer consistent power output without worrying about battery charge.
Less ideal if:
- You need portability or work often where there are no power plugs (outdoors, remote sites). A cordless tool would be better then.
- You need very fine control over torque (e.g., delicate wood joinery, cabinetry, electronics).
- The job involves heavy duty drilling (large diameter holes in concrete, masonry etc.) or very long continuous periods.
