Whether you're a weekend grease monkey or a homeowner looking to tackle your own repairs, a high-quality socket set is the foundation of any good workshop. The CRAFTSMAN 262-Piece Mechanic Tool Set (CMMT45309) is designed to be a "one-and-done" solution, providing a massive variety of tools housed in a clever, stackable storage system.
We dove into this comprehensive set to see if it lives up to the legendary Craftsman name and if the VERSASTACK drawer system is actually practical for a busy garage.
Key Features: More Than Just Sockets
This 262-piece kit is built for breadth and depth, covering almost every standard (SAE) and Metric size you'll encounter in modern vehicles and household projects:
- Triple Drive Power: The set includes low-profile 72-tooth ratchets in all three major drive sizes: 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, and 1/2-inch. The 5-degree arc swing and 25% thinner heads allow you to work in tight engine bays where traditional ratchets simply won't fit.
- Massive Socket Selection: You get 118 sockets in total, including both standard and deep-well options. This variety ensures you aren't stuck hunting for a deep 10mm or a specific SAE size mid-repair.
- VERSASTACK 3-Drawer Box: Instead of a traditional blow-molded "clamshell" case where tools fall out every time you open it, this set uses a professional 3-drawer system. It features a one-handed locking dial to secure tools during transport and is compatible with other VERSASTACK modular storage units.
- Full Polish Chrome Finish: Every tool is finished in high-polish chrome, which isn't just for looks—it provides excellent corrosion resistance and makes it easy to wipe away grease and oil after a job.
- Full Lifetime Warranty: Like most Craftsman hand tools, this set is backed by a full lifetime warranty. If a tool fails, it can be replaced through participating retailers, offering long-term peace of mind.
In-Use Performance: Organization Meets Accessibility
The real "star" of this set is the organization. Because the tools are arranged in drawers rather than a folding case, you can keep the box on your workbench or in your trunk and access exactly what you need without clearing a huge space to flip open a lid.
The 72-tooth ratchets feel smooth and professional. While some new ratchets can feel a bit "stiff" out of the box, they break in quickly to provide a reliable, high-torque feel. The large markings on the sockets are a welcome touch, making it much easier to identify sizes in low-light conditions under a car.
The Final Verdict: A Master Set for the DIYer
The CRAFTSMAN 262-Piece Mechanic Set is one of the best "starter-to-pro" kits available on the market today.
It solves the two biggest headaches of tool ownership: having the right size and keeping it organized. While it is a specialized set (you'll still want to keep a pair of pliers nearby), the quality of the ratchets and the convenience of the VERSASTACK system make it an unbeatable value for anyone looking to build or upgrade a serious tool collection.
