Views: 222 Author: Edvo Publish Time: 2025-05-21 Origin: Site
Content Menu
● What Is the Craftsman Hand Tools Warranty?
● Who Provides the Warranty for Craftsman Hand Tools?
● How Does the Craftsman Warranty Work?
● Recent Changes and Considerations
● Step-by-Step Guide to Claiming a Craftsman Hand Tool Warranty
● What Does the Warranty Not Cover?
● Why Choose Craftsman Hand Tools?
● Related Questions and Answers
>> 1. How long is the warranty on Craftsman hand tools?
>> 2. Do I need a receipt to claim the Craftsman hand tool warranty?
>> 3. Where can I get my Craftsman hand tool replaced?
>> 4. Does the Craftsman warranty cover power tools?
>> 5. What if my Craftsman tool was purchased from Sears before 2014?
Craftsman hand tools have long been synonymous with quality, reliability, and durability. For decades, these tools have been trusted by professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike, largely because of their legendary lifetime warranty. But who exactly provides this warranty today? How does it work? What should you know about claiming it in 2025? This article will provide a detailed, in-depth look at the warranty coverage for Craftsman hand tools, the companies involved, and practical tips for making the most of this valuable guarantee.
Craftsman hand tools come with one of the most generous warranties in the tool industry: a full lifetime warranty. This means that if your Craftsman hand tool ever fails to perform due to a defect in material or workmanship, the company promises to replace it free of charge, no questions asked.
This warranty applies to a wide variety of hand tools, including but not limited to:
- Hammers and demolition tools
- Finishing tools
- Hex keys
- Knives and multi-tools
- Nut drivers
- Pliers
- Ratchets and sockets
- Screwdrivers
- Wrenches and wrench sets
The warranty applies to both new Craftsman tools (model numbers starting with “CMHT”) and many older models (model numbers starting with “9”). The coverage is designed to last for the entire lifetime of the tool, making Craftsman a smart investment for anyone who values quality and peace of mind.
The warranty for Craftsman hand tools is currently provided by Stanley Black & Decker, the company that acquired the Craftsman brand from Sears in 2017. This acquisition marked a significant shift in how the Craftsman warranty is managed and honored.
Previously, Sears was the primary company responsible for warranty claims on Craftsman tools. However, after the acquisition, warranty services transitioned to Stanley Black & Decker and are now primarily honored through retailers such as Lowe's and Ace Hardware.
- Lowe's is now the main retailer that honors the Craftsman lifetime warranty on hand tools. Customers can return defective tools to Lowe's stores for replacement, provided the exact tool is available.
- Ace Hardware also supports warranty claims for Craftsman tools purchased through their stores and offers similar policies.
- For customers who cannot visit a store or if the exact replacement is unavailable, Craftsman Customer Service can be contacted directly via phone or online to assist with warranty claims.
This change has brought both convenience and some challenges, which we will explore in detail later.
The Craftsman lifetime warranty is designed to be as hassle-free as possible:
- No receipt required: For most hand tools, proof of purchase is not necessary to claim the warranty. This is a huge advantage for users who may have lost their receipts or purchased tools as gifts.
- Easy in-store replacement: Customers can simply bring the defective tool to a Lowe's or Ace Hardware store that stocks Craftsman tools and request a replacement.
- Mail-in warranty service: If the exact tool is not available at the store, or if the customer prefers, they can contact Craftsman Customer Service to arrange a mail-in warranty claim.
- Coverage: The warranty covers defects in material or workmanship but excludes normal wear and tear or consumable parts such as blades, batteries, or sandpaper.
This straightforward process is one reason why Craftsman tools remain popular among tradespeople and hobbyists who want tools that last a lifetime.
Since Stanley Black & Decker took over the Craftsman brand, there have been some important changes and considerations regarding the warranty:
- Sears Store Closures: Many Sears stores have closed or downsized, which has made it difficult for customers with older Craftsman tools purchased from Sears to get warranty service through those stores.
- Lowe's as Warranty Hub: Lowe's has become the primary warranty service hub for Craftsman hand tools. However, Lowe's may require that the replacement tool be the exact model or a close equivalent, which can sometimes be challenging if the tool is discontinued.
- Online Warranty Claims: Craftsman has introduced an online warranty claim process where customers can submit photos and model numbers to receive replacements by mail. This is especially useful for customers who do not have easy access to a Lowe's or Ace Hardware.
- Customer Service Support: Craftsman's customer service team is available to help resolve warranty issues, guide customers through the claim process, and ensure they receive appropriate replacements.
While the lifetime warranty remains robust, customers should be aware of these nuances to avoid frustration.
If you have a defective Craftsman hand tool, here's how to claim your warranty:
1. Identify the defective tool: Confirm that your tool is a Craftsman hand tool covered under the lifetime warranty.
2. Visit a Lowe's or Ace Hardware store: Bring the defective tool to a store that stocks Craftsman products.
3. Request a replacement: Explain the issue and request a replacement tool. No receipt is usually required.
4. If the exact tool is unavailable: Contact Craftsman Customer Service at 888-331-4569 or use the online warranty claim form on the official Craftsman website.
5. Submit photos and model numbers: For mail-in claims, provide clear photos and accurate model numbers of the defective tool.
6. Wait for replacement: Once approved, you will receive a replacement tool by mail or instructions on how to pick it up.
7. Dispose of the defective tool: Follow any instructions regarding the return or disposal of the old tool.
This process ensures that customers can quickly and efficiently replace defective tools with minimal hassle.
While the Craftsman lifetime warranty is extensive, it does have some exclusions:
- Consumable parts: Items such as blades, batteries, sandpaper, and other parts that wear out through normal use are not covered.
- Commercial use: Tools used in commercial or rental applications may have limited or voided warranties, depending on the terms.
- Damage from misuse: Tools damaged due to misuse, abuse, or improper maintenance are not covered.
- Incidental damages: The warranty does not cover incidental or consequential damages resulting from tool failure.
Understanding these limitations helps set realistic expectations and ensures that customers use their tools appropriately to maintain warranty coverage.
Beyond the warranty, Craftsman hand tools offer several advantages that make them a top choice:
- High-quality materials: Craftsman tools are made from durable steel alloys and designed for long-term use.
- Ergonomic design: Many tools feature comfortable grips and balanced weight for ease of use.
- Wide availability: Craftsman tools are widely available at Lowe's, Ace Hardware, and online, making replacements and additions easy.
- Trusted brand: With over 90 years of history, Craftsman has built a reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction.
The lifetime warranty complements these features by providing peace of mind that your investment is protected.
Craftsman hand tools continue to be backed by a robust full lifetime warranty provided by Stanley Black & Decker and honored primarily through Lowe's and Ace Hardware stores. This warranty promises replacement of defective tools without requiring proof of purchase, underscoring Craftsman's confidence in their product quality and commitment to customer satisfaction.
While the transition from Sears to Stanley Black & Decker has introduced some changes in warranty logistics, customers still benefit from comprehensive coverage and increasingly convenient online claim options. For anyone investing in Craftsman hand tools, understanding the warranty process and its terms ensures long-term satisfaction and value.
Whether you are a professional tradesperson or a weekend DIYer, Craftsman's lifetime warranty offers peace of mind that your tools will be supported for life.
Craftsman hand tools come with a full lifetime warranty, meaning they will be replaced if they fail to perform for any reason, for as long as you own them.
No, proof of purchase is generally not required for hand tool warranty claims, making it easy to replace tools without a receipt.
You can take your defective Craftsman hand tool to Lowe's or Ace Hardware stores that stock Craftsman products. If the exact tool is unavailable, contact Craftsman Customer Service directly.
No, most Craftsman power tools have a limited warranty, typically one year, and are not covered by the lifetime warranty that applies to hand tools.
Tools bought from Sears before 2014 may require returning to the original Sears store for warranty service, which can be difficult due to store closures. In such cases, contacting Craftsman Customer Service is recommended for guidance.
