7 models in this file
Craftsman 1/2-Inch Impact Sockets: Which Set Fits
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Craftsman has been a garage staple for generations, and its 1/2-inch drive impact sockets follow a simple formula: 6-point sockets built to take the hammering of an impact wrench, a black oxide finish for corrosion resistance, large size markings, and a full lifetime warranty on most sets. For anyone towing a trailer, driving an RV or just keeping a roadside kit in the trunk, the right small set can handle lug nuts and hitch bolts without hauling a full toolbox.
The six sets here differ in size system, depth and piece count: three 12-piece metric sets (two deep, one shallow), one 12-piece SAE deep set, and two larger SAE sets at 23 and 48 pieces.
No. 1 of 7 · Craftsman
Craftsman Impact Socket Sets Compared
8.6/10 Our score
Best for: Metric work in tight spaces
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
- 12 shallow metric sockets
- 12-27 mm range
- Large markings
Cons
- Shallow, may not clear long studs
- Description wrongly says deep
Best for: Metric lug nuts in a compact roadside kit
Pros
- 12 deep metric sockets, 12-27 mm
- Black oxide finish
- Full lifetime warranty
Cons
- Metric only
- Skips 20, 23 and 25 mm
| Model | Pieces | Size system | Depth | Listed weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CRAFTSMAN CMMT15887 | 12 | Metric, 12-27 mm | Deep | Not listed |
| CRAFTSMAN CMMT16548 | 48 | SAE in title, SAE/Metric in description | Deep | 23.8 pounds |
| CRAFTSMAN CMMT16970 | 23 | SAE in title, SAE/Metric in description | Deep | Not listed |
| CRAFTSMAN CMMT15885 | 12 | Metric, 12-27 mm | Shallow | Not listed |
| CRAFTSMAN CMMT15886 | 12 | SAE, 3/8 to 1-1/16 inch | Deep | 3.33 kg |
| CRAFTSMAN CMMT16887 | 12 | Metric | Deep | 6.7 pounds |
No. 2 of 7 · Craftsman
CRAFTSMAN Impact Socket Set CMMT15887 for Metric Deep Sockets
8.6/10 Our score
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
The CRAFTSMAN Impact Socket Set, model CMMT15887, holds twelve 1/2-inch drive deep impact sockets in metric sizes: 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 24 and 27 mm. The listing describes a black oxide finish for corrosion resistance, 6-point sockets that engage the flats of fasteners to prevent rounding, large size markings and construction that meets or exceeds ASME specifications.
It carries a full lifetime warranty. The listing does not state a weight. The size run covers many common metric lug nut and suspension bolt sizes, but it skips 20, 23 and 25 mm, so check your vehicle’s specific sizes before relying on it as your only set.
This suits owners of metric cars, vans and campers who want a compact roadside kit. Deep sockets are also handy for lug nuts on long wheel studs. If your trailer or tow vehicle uses SAE hardware, pair it with the CMMT15886 below.
A quick word on why impact sockets matter at all. Standard chrome sockets are hard and can crack under the repeated blows of an impact wrench, while impact sockets are made to flex slightly and absorb that hammering. If you carry a cordless impact wrench on road trips to speed up tire changes, you need impact-rated sockets like these. If you only carry a breaker bar or lug wrench, impact sockets still work fine and tend to be the more durable choice for stubborn, rusted nuts.
No. 3 of 7 · Craftsman
CRAFTSMAN Deep Impact Socket Set CMMT16548 48-Piece for the Home Garage
9.2/10 Our score
Best for: SAE trailers and American vehicles
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
- 12 deep SAE sockets, 3/8 to 1-1/16 inch
- 6-point grip
- Full lifetime warranty
Cons
- SAE only
- 33 kg to carry
Best for: Mixed-fleet owners wanting a mid-size set
Pros
- 23 deep impact sockets
- Described as SAE and metric
- Large size markings
Cons
- Exact sizes not listed
- Title and description disagree on SAE/metric
Best for: Home garages covering every fastener
Pros
- 48 pieces
- Deep 6-point design
- Full lifetime warranty
Cons
- 8 pounds, too heavy to carry
- Size list and SAE/metric mix unclear
The CRAFTSMAN Deep Impact Socket Set, model CMMT16548, is the big kit at 48 pieces. It shares the same features as the smaller sets: black oxide finish, 6-point sockets, large markings, ASME compliance and a full lifetime warranty.
There are gaps in the listing. The title calls it SAE, while the description calls it a 48-piece SAE/Metric set, and the included sizes are not itemized. It also weighs 23.8 pounds, which rules it out for a vehicle kit where weight and space matter. Confirm the size mix on the product page before buying.
This suits a home garage or workshop where you want nearly every size on hand. For road trips, carry one of the 12-piece sets and leave this one at home. Our guide to a Craftsman master socket set covers non-impact sets for broader work.
No. 4 of 7 · Craftsman
CRAFTSMAN Deep Impact Socket Set CMMT16970 23-Piece for a Middle Ground
8.6/10 Our score
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
The CRAFTSMAN Deep Impact Socket Set, model CMMT16970, has 23 pieces. The listing lists automotive applications and the same core features: black oxide finish, 6-point sockets, large markings, ASME compliance and a full lifetime warranty.
Like the 48-piece set, the title says SAE but the description calls it SAE/Metric, and the exact sizes are not listed. The listing does not give a weight.
This suits drivers with both metric and SAE vehicles who want more coverage than a 12-piece set without the bulk of the 48-piece kit. Check the size list on the product page first.
For packing, a 23-piece set is a reasonable compromise for a large tow vehicle or motorhome with generous storage bays, where a few extra pounds matter less than having the right size when a bolt loosens miles from a shop. In a small car trunk or a van with tight storage, the 12-piece sets still make more sense.
No. 5 of 7 · Craftsman
CRAFTSMAN Impact Socket Set CMMT15885 for Shallow Metric Sockets
8.6/10 Our score
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
The CRAFTSMAN Impact Socket Set, model CMMT15885, contains twelve 1/2-inch drive shallow impact sockets in the same metric sizes as the CMMT15887: 12 through 19, then 21, 22, 24 and 27 mm. It has the black oxide finish, 6-point design, large markings, ASME compliance and a full lifetime warranty.
The description on this listing calls it a deep socket set, but the included components list shallow sockets and the model differs from the deep CMMT15887, so treat it as shallow. Shallow sockets fit better in tight spaces but may not clear long wheel studs.
This suits metric work in cramped engine bays and on brackets. For lug nuts, the deep CMMT15887 is usually the safer choice.
No. 6 of 7 · Craftsman
CRAFTSMAN Deep Impact Socket Set CMMT15886 for SAE Hitches and Trailers
9.6/10 Our score
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
The CRAFTSMAN Deep Impact Socket Set, model CMMT15886, has twelve 1/2-inch drive deep SAE sockets: 3/8, 7/16, 1/2, 9/16, 5/8, 11/16, 3/4, 13/16, 7/8, 15/16, 1 and 1-1/16 inch. It is 6-point, black oxide finished, ASME compliant and backed by a full lifetime warranty. The listed weight is 3.33 kg.
The range includes the larger SAE sizes common on trailer hitches, ball mounts and older American vehicles. For towing, it pairs well with a metric set. For a broader SAE collection, see our Craftsman deep socket set guide.
This suits trailer and RV owners working on SAE hardware.
No. 7 of 7 · Craftsman
CRAFTSMAN 12 pc 1/2 in MM Deep Impact Socket Set CMMT16887 for Low Light
8.0/10 Our score
Best for: Low-light roadside metric work
What the listing says
- Easy Removal – Grab and secure your socket with a gripping zone that helps ease extraction.
- Hi-vis Markings – Find the right size in low light environments with highly visible, large, paint-filled markings.
- Color-coded Rings – Make easy measurement ids between metric (white) and SAE (red) with color-coded markings.
- Versatile Performance – Take on automotive repairs, home renovations, and Other high-torque applications with this comprehensive socket set.
- Easy Attach – Move fast with a dual-hole design and groove that makes attachment quick and easy.
- Corrosion Resistant – Help prevent damage from demanding tasks with a black-oxide finish.
Pros
- Hi-vis paint-filled markings
- Color-coded metric ring
- Grip zone for easy removal
Cons
- Metric sizes not itemized
- 7 pounds
The CRAFTSMAN 12 pc 1 2 in MM Deep Impact Socket Set, model CMMT16887, is the newer design. It adds hi-vis, paint-filled size markings for low light, color-coded rings (white for metric), a grip zone for easier extraction and a dual-hole design with a groove for quick attachment. It keeps the black oxide finish.
The listing does not itemize the metric sizes or mention a lifetime warranty, and it weighs 6.7 pounds. Confirm the sizes cover your lug nuts before choosing it.
This suits roadside work at dusk or in a dim garage where hi-vis markings help.
Because the listing does not state a warranty, it is worth checking the Warranty and Support section on the product page if long-term coverage is a deciding factor for you. The size and weight gaps also make it harder to compare directly with the older CMMT15887, which spells out every size.
Before you choose
How to Choose the Right Craftsman Impact Socket Set
Match your hardware. Metric vehicles need a metric set; American trailers and hitches often use SAE. Check your owner’s manual for lug nut sizes.
Deep or shallow. Deep sockets clear long studs; shallow sockets fit tight spaces.
Weigh the kit. A 12-piece set suits a vehicle kit. The 48-piece set belongs in the garage.
Warranty. Most listings mention a full lifetime warranty; CMMT16887 does not.
Build a travel kit around the sets. A practical roadside kit for a car or RV is one 12-piece deep set in the right size system, a 1/2-inch breaker bar or cordless impact wrench, a torque wrench or at least the manufacturer torque spec written down, and gloves. Always re-check lug nut torque after the first short drive when you have changed a wheel, since lug nuts can settle.
Questions people ask
FAQ
Which Craftsman set is best for lug nuts?
A deep set in your vehicle’s size system: CMMT15887 for metric, CMMT15886 for SAE.
Are Craftsman impact sockets 6-point?
Yes, most listings describe 6-point sockets that grip fastener flats to prevent rounding.
Is the CMMT16548 metric or SAE?
The title says SAE while the description says SAE/Metric, so confirm on the product page.
Can I use these with a regular ratchet?
They are 1/2-inch drive, so they fit a 1/2-inch ratchet or breaker bar as well as an impact wrench.
Which set is lightest to carry?
One of the 12-piece sets. Among those with listed weights, CMMT15886 is 3.33 kg and CMMT16887 is 6.7 pounds.
Do Craftsman impact sockets rust?
They have a black oxide finish for corrosion resistance.
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.
