7 models in this file
Craftsman Deep Socket Set Guide: Impact vs Standard
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Craftsman is renowned among mechanics and travelers for building dependable hand and power tool accessories that endure tough roadside realities. In the deep socket category, the brand’s elongated profiles provide essential clearance to bypass protruding wheel studs, reach sunken engine fasteners, and grip recessed hardware where standard shallow sockets fail. For road trippers and mobile repair techs packing dedicated vehicle emergency kits, keeping a reliable craftsman deep socket set on hand ensures unexpected repairs do not leave you stranded.
These six sets differ across drive sizes, socket geometries, and durable surface treatments, ranging from heavy-duty 1/2-inch black oxide impact models for lug nuts to lightweight 3/8-inch chrome options designed for fast hand ratcheting.
No. 1 of 7 · Craftsman
Craftsman Deep Socket Sets Compared
9.8/10 Our score
Best for: Manual maintenance on domestic travel trailers
What the listing says
- CORROSION RESISTANCE Socket Sets Have Full Polish Chrome Finish
- QUICK ENGAGEMENT This Socket Set 1/2 Drive Has 12 Point Box End with Fastener
- INCREASED ACCESSIBILITY Deep Socket Set Metric
- QUICK SIZE IDENTIFICATION Large Markings
- Meets or Exceeds ASME Specifications
- Full Lifetime Warranty, refer to "Warranty & Support" section below for full details
Pros
- Rust-resistant full polish chrome
- Wide fractional size coverage
- Deep reach for long studs
Cons
- Not engineered for impact tools
- Lacks metric socket sizes
Best for: Manual ratchet work on metric vehicles
Pros
- Full polish chrome finish
- Quick-engaging 12-point box end
- Large stamped size markings
Cons
- Unsuitable for powered impact wrenches
- Excludes imperial fractional sizes
| Model | Drive Size | Socket Points | Finish | Piece Count |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CRAFTSMAN CMMT16970 | 1/2-Inch | 6-Point | Black Oxide | 23 Pieces |
| Craftsman 9 34558 | 3/8-Inch | 12-Point | Steel (Not listed) | 18 Pieces |
| CRAFTSMAN CMMT15887 | 1/2-Inch | 6-Point | Black Oxide | 12 Pieces |
| CRAFTSMAN CMMT12049 | 1/2-Inch | 12-Point | Full Polish Chrome | 11 Pieces |
| CRAFTSMAN CMMT12048 | 1/2-Inch | 12-Point | Full Polish Chrome | 11 Pieces |
| CRAFTSMAN CMMT17560V | 3/8-Inch | 6-Point | Not listed | 12 Pieces |
No. 2 of 7 · Craftsman
CRAFTSMAN Deep Impact Socket for High-Torque Roadside Repairs
9.2/10 Our score
Best for: Heavy-duty roadside tire and suspension repairs
What the listing says
- CORROSION RESISTANT Mechanic socket set has a black oxide finish
- INCREASED TORQUE 6-point impact socket comes with fastener
- QUICK SIZE IDENTIFICATION Large Markings
- Meets or Exceeds ASME Specifications
- Full Lifetime Warranty, refer to "Warranty & Support" section below for full details
Pros
- Corrosion-resistant black oxide finish
- Off-corner 6-point torque profile
- Comprehensive 23-piece combined sizing
Cons
- Bulkier trunk footprint
- Requires half-inch drive tools
The CRAFTSMAN Deep Impact Socket set (model CMMT16970) is built to endure high torque with impact wrenches during heavy vehicle servicing. Featuring a black oxide finish for corrosion resistance, this 23-piece craftsman deep impact socket set cmmt16970 provides the extended reach required to clear long wheel studs and access recessed suspension bolts without bottoming out.
Each 1/2-inch drive socket incorporates 6-point geometry engineered to contact the wide flats of fasteners rather than the corners, preventing rounded bolt heads under intense rotational stress. Large size markings etched on the exterior assist quick identification during roadside emergencies. The set meets or exceeds ASME specifications and includes a full lifetime warranty. For drivers who pack cordless impact wrenches alongside their primary craftsmen tool set, this package provides high-torque reliability for automotive drive bit applications.
This comprehensive kit suits truck drivers, overland adventurers, and camper haulers who require both SAE and metric impact sockets for heavy tire and chassis maintenance. However, if your trunk setup demands ultralight storage, the 23-piece footprint occupies more space than compact 3/8-inch rail kits.
No. 3 of 7 · Craftsman
Craftsman 18-Piece Deep Socket for Compact Dual-Measurement Storage
9.4/10 Our score
Best for: General travel kits needing mixed measurements
What the listing says
- Durable steel construction
- Compatible with 3/8" drives
- 12-point deep sockets come in inch and metric sizes
- 18-piece inch and metric deep socket set
- 2 Socket holders -1 is Black & 1 is Gray
Pros
- Includes standard inch and metric sizes
- Dual color-coded socket holders
- Portable 4.6-pound pack weight
Cons
- Not rated for impact wrenches
- 12-point design risks fastener rounding
For road trippers looking to conserve cargo space while maintaining broad fastener readiness, the Craftsman 18-Piece Deep Socket set (model 820909345589) delivers a portable solution. Weighing 4.6 pounds, this craftsman 18 piece deep socket set operates on a 3/8-inch drive system and features durable steel construction designed for everyday automotive and DIY mechanical fixes.
The collection provides 18 pieces covering both standard inch and metric measurements with a 12-point socket design. The 12-point configuration allows rapid fastener engagement at narrow angles, making it especially handy in tight engine compartments where ratchet swing clearance is restricted. Two included socket holders—one black and one gray—keep fractional and metric sizes separated for tidy trunk organization. Paired with a complementary craftsman wrench set, it forms a lightweight mechanical safety net for highway travel.
This dual-measurement kit is ideal for campers and commuters wanting unified inch and metric coverage in a single portable bundle. However, because its 12-point steel build is designed for hand ratchets, it is not engineered for powered impact tools or high-torque wheel lug duty.
No. 4 of 7 · Craftsman
CRAFTSMAN Impact Socket for Heavy-Duty Metric Fasteners
8.6/10 Our score
Best for: Metric vehicle owners carrying impact wrenches
What the listing says
- CORROSION RESISTANCE Socket set has black oxide finish
- INCREASED TORQUE 6-point mechanic socket set with fastener
- QUICK SIZE IDENTIFICATION Impact socket set 1/2 drive comes with large markings
- Meets or Exceeds ASME Specifications
- Full Lifetime Warranty, refer to "Warranty & Support" section below for full details
Pros
- Durable black oxide coating
- Torque-bearing 6-point fastener grip
- Broad 12mm to 27mm range
Cons
- No fractional inch sizes
- Half-inch drive size only
Modern passenger vehicles and import SUVs rely heavily on metric hardware, making focused metric tooling a smart way to eliminate unnecessary tool pack weight. The CRAFTSMAN Impact Socket kit (model CMMT15887) delivers 12 deep impact sockets on a 1/2-inch drive platform. Coated with a protective black oxide finish for corrosion resistance, these craftsman metric deep impact sockets cmmt15887 are constructed to withstand heavy torque applications with impact wrenches.
Included in this 12-piece set are metric sizes 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 24, and 27 mm. The 6-point socket geometry engages fastener flats to resist rounding off stubborn or rusted hardware during urgent repairs. Large markings allow easy size reading in poor light, while ASME compliance and a full lifetime warranty ensure lasting shop-grade build quality. Carrying dedicated craftsman impact sockets gives travelers confidence when breaking loose frozen lug nuts or trailer mounts.
This setup suits drivers of modern metric-based vehicles who carry 1/2-inch impact guns and want targeted metric coverage without extraneous pieces. Those towing domestic trailers built with imperial fractional hardware, however, will need an SAE-compatible alternative.
No. 5 of 7 · Craftsman
CRAFTSMAN Deep Socket CMMT12049 for Metric Hand Ratcheting
9.8/10 Our score
What the listing says
- CORROSION RESISTANCE Socket Sets Have Full Polish Chrome Finish
- QUICK ENGAGEMENT This Socket Set 1/2 Drive Has 12 Point Box End with Fastener
- INCREASED ACCESSIBILITY Deep Socket Set Metric
- QUICK SIZE IDENTIFICATION Large Markings
- Meets or Exceeds ASME Specifications
- Full Lifetime Warranty, refer to "Warranty & Support" section below for full details
Routine engine work, bracket repairs, and roadside adjustments often call for the smooth tactile feedback of a hand ratchet. The CRAFTSMAN Deep Socket metric set (model CMMT12049) offers 11 deep sockets engineered for 1/2-inch drive ratchets. Protected by a full polish chrome finish, this craftsman cmmt12049 assortment resists rust effectively and wipes clean instantly after contact with motor oil and road grime.
The set spans 11 metric sizes: 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, and 21 mm. Featuring a 12-point box end, these sockets slip easily onto fasteners with minimal rotation, boosting accessibility inside congested engine bays. The elongated deep well provides generous clearance over extended bolt threads and studs. Each piece features large markings for fast selection and meets or exceeds ASME specifications under Craftsman’s full lifetime warranty.
This metric chrome collection is an excellent match for DIY motorists who rely on traditional 1/2-inch hand ratchets and breaker bars for automotive repair. However, it must give way to impact-rated black oxide models if you plan to use powered impact wrenches on heavy lug nuts.
No. 6 of 7 · Craftsman
CRAFTSMAN Deep Socket CMMT12048 for Traditional Inch Fasteners
9.4/10 Our score
What the listing says
- CORROSION RESISTANCE Mechanic Socket Set Has Full Polish Chrome Finish
- QUICK ENGAGEMENT CRAFTSMAN Socket Set Comes with 12 Point Box End with fastener
- INCREASED ACCESSIBILITY Deep Sockets Set
- QUICK SIZE IDENTIFICATION Large Markings
- Meets or Exceeds ASME Specifications
- Full Lifetime Warranty, refer to "Warranty & Support" section below for full details
Vintage travel trailers, domestic motorhomes, and utility haulers frequently use standard fractional fasteners across suspension brackets and chassis frames. The CRAFTSMAN Deep Socket SAE kit (model CMMT12048) provides 11 fractional deep sockets for 1/2-inch drive ratchets. Weighing 2.02 kg and treated with a full polish chrome finish, this craftsman cmmt12048 set provides long-term corrosion resistance for humid trailer storage.
The 11 included sizes comprise 3/8″, 7/16″, 1/2″, 9/16″, 5/8″, 11/16″, 3/4″, 13/16″, 7/8″, 15/16″, and 1 inch. Its 12-point opening allows quick engagement with fasteners, while the deep barrel easily accommodates protruding threads on leaf spring U-bolts and trailer couplers. Clear, large markings speed up size identification, and the tools adhere to ASME specifications with full lifetime warranty coverage.
Travelers towing traditional American camper trailers or driving older domestic trucks will appreciate the precise imperial fit of this set. Conversely, if your vehicle operates on modern metric standards, this fractional kit leaves you without essential metric sizes.
No. 7 of 7 · Craftsman
CRAFTSMAN V-SERIES Socket for Professional Mobile Tool Organization
9.6/10 Our score
Best for: Organized mobile repairs in tight quarters
What the listing says
- OPTMIZED OUTPUT AND PERFORMANCE 6-point socket geometry for high torque
- SECURE GRIP with deep socket size
- CONVENIENT STORAGE AND ORGANIZATION with magnetic socket rail
- ANTI-SLIP SOCKET GROOVES FOR EASE OF USE in heavily lubricated environments
Pros
- Magnetic rail prevents rattling
- Anti-slip grooves for oily hands
- High-torque 6-point geometry
Cons
- Limited to 3/8-inch drive ratchets
- Omits large wheel-lug sizes
When packing light in camper vans or overland trucks, loose tools shifting inside drawers cause clutter and noise. The CRAFTSMAN V-SERIES Socket set (model CMMT17560V) solves mobile organization by including a 6-inch red magnetic rail with 12 nubs. Built on a compact 3/8-inch drive, this 12-piece craftsman v-series deep socket set clings firmly to metal surfaces to keep tools secure during bumpy transit.
Engineered for professional performance, the set uses 6-point geometry with an off-corner design to maximize torque on fastener flats. Chamfered, tapered tips allow fast placement onto hardware, while anti-slip socket grooves provide dependable grip when handling greasy fasteners. Spanning metric sizes 8 through 19 mm within an 8-inch length profile, it fits conveniently alongside a larger craftsman master socket set for advanced field servicing.
This V-Series set is the top pick for mobile mechanics and overland travelers who demand high-torque 6-point engagement and magnetic organization in a compact footprint. For heavy 1/2-inch wheel lug removal with an impact gun, however, a larger impact set remains necessary.
Before you choose
How to Choose the Right Craftsman Deep Socket Set
Selecting the best socket set for your travel kit requires weighing drive size, tool design, and measurement systems. Compact 3/8-inch drive options like the Craftsman 18-piece or V-Series set save precious trunk space while offering sufficient torque for under-hood repairs and auxiliary equipment. In contrast, 1/2-inch drive sets provide the heavy-duty muscle necessary for stubborn lug nuts and trailer hitches, making them essential for heavier tow rigs.
Matching the socket build to your tool type is equally critical. Chrome 12-point sockets, such as the CMMT12049 metric and CMMT12048 SAE models, excel with hand ratchets due to fast engagement and easy-clean finishes. For powered impact wrenches, however, black oxide 6-point models like the CMMT16970 and CMMT15887 are necessary to absorb violent percussive torque without cracking or rounding bolt heads.
Vehicle origin dictates fastener choice: modern import and domestic cars use metric bolts, while older domestic trailers rely on SAE fractional hardware. Evaluating these factors helps determine which craftsman deep socket set to buy for your journeys.
Finally, consider your storage environment and organization preferences when deciding which craftsman deep socket set to buy. Mobile kits endure constant vibration during highway driving and off-road expeditions. Sockets packaged on magnetic rails, such as the V-Series rail, or secured on dual-color holders prevent tools from scattering across your trunk floor. Choosing a set with large stamped markings also ensures you can quickly pinpoint the exact socket needed during late-night roadside repairs without straining your eyes.
Questions people ask
FAQ
Can chrome deep sockets be used safely on an impact wrench?
No, chrome sockets should never be used on impact wrenches. Their steel alloy is harder and more brittle, creating a risk of cracking or shattering under rapid percussive blows. Always choose black oxide impact sockets for powered wrenches.
Why are deep sockets preferred over shallow sockets for travel kits?
Deep sockets feature an extended barrel that accommodates long threaded studs on wheel hubs, U-bolts, and exhaust hangers. A shallow socket often bottoms out on the stud before gripping the nut, whereas a deep socket secures full contact.
What is the difference between 6-point and 12-point deep sockets?
A 6-point socket grips the broad flat sides of a fastener, delivering higher torque resistance against rounded corners. A 12-point socket connects at tighter angles, speeding up engagement in narrow spaces where ratchet movement is restricted.
How do I know which Craftsman deep socket set to buy for my vehicle?
Identify whether your vehicle uses metric or SAE hardware, and consider whether you use a hand ratchet or impact tool. Modern vehicles require metric sets, while heavy wheel swaps call for a 1/2-inch 6-point impact kit.
What warranty coverage applies to these Craftsman deep socket sets?
The listings specify that models CMMT16970, CMMT15887, CMMT12049, and CMMT12048 include a Full Lifetime Warranty and meet or exceed ASME specifications. Refer to the manufacturer warranty documentation for detailed terms.
Prices, specifications and the feature lines above are read from the product listing and can change without notice. Scores are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback; nothing on this page is written from handling the product.
