The CRAFTSMAN 262-Piece Mechanic VERSASTACK Tool Set (CMMT45309) offers a complete solution for both professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts. Featuring SAE and metric sockets, wrenches, and low-profile 72-tooth ratchets, all organized in a durable, stackable 3-drawer VERSASTACK system, it ensures tools stay secure and accessible. Backed by CRAFTSMAN’s lifetime warranty, this versatile set delivers reliability and convenience—perfect for upgrading your workshop today.
The reason I like the CRAFTSMAN 262 piece mechanic tool set is simple: it’s a broad kit that’s actually organized like a kit, not a jumble of loose tools in a blow‑mold case.
CRAFTSMAN ships it in a durable 3‑drawer automotive-style box with a one‑hand locking dial, and the drawers can nest on top of the box for temporary access while you work.
It’s also VERSASTACK compatible, which matters if you already own (or plan to build) a modular stackable storage setup.
Where I see it fitting best (real life):
- A home garage where you do brakes, battery swaps, oil changes, spark plugs, accessories, and basic suspension work.
- A “new homeowner” setup where you want one big purchase that covers most fasteners you’ll encounter (SAE + metric).
- A small apartment/condo with limited space—because drawers beat a clamshell case when you’re working off a shelf or a closet floor.
If you want to check current pricing and availability, this is the exact model I’m referring to: CRAFTSMAN CMMT45309 on Amazon. (Use your affiliate link version.)
What’s included (and why it matters)
Here’s what the kit includes, as listed for the 262‑piece set: 118 sockets, 3 ratchets, 24 wrenches, 44 hex keys, 66 specialty bits, and 7 accessories.
The instruction/manual listing breaks down the components further (standard sockets, deep sockets, extensions, bit sockets, spark plug sockets, adapters, etc.), which is the kind of mix I expect in a “do most jobs” mechanic set rather than a tiny glovebox kit.
The ratchets are the star
CRAFTSMAN highlights a 72‑tooth ratchet design with a 5‑degree arc swing, plus a low-profile head that’s “up to 25% thinner” (for certain drive sizes) to help in tighter spaces.
In practice, that means fewer “lift and reposition” moves when you’re crammed next to a radiator hose, under a sink, or behind a washing machine panel—places where you can’t swing a handle very far.
The drawers are more important than people think
The 3‑drawer VERSASTACK box isn’t just “nice”—it changes how often you’ll actually use the tools.
I’ve owned tool kits that were technically complete but annoying to access, and those kits slowly became “emergency only” tools because digging for the right socket felt like work.
With drawers, I can open the top drawer and scan by size range quickly, like a kitchen utensil drawer: you see what you need, grab it, and move on.
Product mention: CRAFTSMAN 262-Piece Mechanic Tool Set with 3‑Drawer VERSASTACK Box (CMMT45309).
Who should buy it (and who shouldn’t)
This is a premium “one-kit solution,” so I’d buy it when I want coverage and organization, not when I’m trying to spend the absolute minimum.
Buy this if…
- You want both SAE and metric sockets for mixed projects (cars + home).
- You value organization and quick access (drawers + locking dial).
- You care about tight-space usability (low profile head + 72‑tooth / 5° arc swing).
- You like having a brand-backed “Full Lifetime Warranty” listed with the set.
Skip (or downgrade) if…
- You only do occasional furniture assembly and picture hanging—this is likely more tool set than you need.
- You already own quality 3/8″ sockets and ratchets; paying again for duplicates may not be smart.
- You need a lightweight “carry to the car” kit; at about 27.5 lb, it’s not tiny.
My favorite use cases (home, garage, and even “pet parent” life)
This set is sold as a mechanics kit, but I like tools that earn their space across multiple “life categories.”
Home improvement wins
- Tightening loose door handles, lag bolts, and bed frames using the right socket instead of rounding a fastener with an adjustable wrench.
- Fixing wobbly furniture by properly snugging hardware (especially when you can reach recessed bolts).
Garage wins
- Battery terminals, hose clamps, and most common fasteners you’ll see on routine maintenance jobs.
- Spark plug jobs are supported because the kit includes spark plug sockets.
Pet owner “unexpected fixes”
If you’ve ever had a dog crate rattle at 11 PM, you know the pain: the fix is simple, but only if you have the right tool instantly.
A drawer kit like this makes those small fixes feel like grabbing a spoon from the kitchen—fast, familiar, and stress-free.
VERSASTACK compatibility (why it’s a real perk)
CRAFTSMAN markets VERSASTACK as a stackable storage system with compatible units and durable side latches—“stack and go.”
Since this 262‑piece kit is VERSASTACK compatible, it can fit into a modular storage approach if you want to add organizers, totes, or other stackable boxes later.
For me, that matters most when a tool collection grows beyond one kit—because modular storage helps prevent the classic “pile of cases” problem.
Warranty and trust notes (what I’d expect)
The listing calls out a “Full Lifetime Warranty” for this tool set.
In general, Craftsman’s lifetime warranty reputation is tied to many hand tools (like ratchets and wrenches), and coverage details can vary by product category and retailer—so it’s smart to keep receipts and confirm the exact terms for your item.
If warranty is a key deciding factor for you, check Craftsman’s official support/warranty pages and your retailer’s handling process before you buy.
Specs and buying checklist (what I’d check before clicking “Buy”)
Here’s the quick checklist I use to avoid buyer’s remorse on big mechanic kits like this:
- Drive sizes included: This kit includes 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ drive ratchets per the product listing and supporting documentation.
- Socket variety: Standard + deep sockets are included per the manual breakdown, which is important for reaching studs and recessed fasteners.
- Tool count vs. duplicates: High piece counts often include many bits/hex keys; that’s not “bad,” but understand what makes up the 262.
- Storage style: If you hate clamshell cases, you’ll appreciate the 3‑drawer approach and one‑hand locking dial.
- Weight/portability: It’s listed around 27.5 lb, so it’s more “garage carry” than “one-hand carry everywhere.”
Quick comparison: when a smaller kit makes sense
If you’re deciding between this and a smaller “starter” mechanics kit, the difference usually comes down to three things: (1) socket coverage, (2) organization, and (3) whether you’ll grow into it.
Product mention: CRAFTSMAN 262 piece mechanic tool set (CMMT45309) on Amazon.
Pros and cons (my honest take)
Pros
- Excellent organization for the category (drawers + locking dial + nesting drawers).
- Broad coverage: sockets + wrenches + hex keys + bits + spark plug sockets.
- Tight-space friendly ratchets: 72-tooth / 5° arc swing and low-profile head design.
- VERSASTACK compatibility for a scalable storage setup.
Cons
- Not the lightest kit; you’ll notice the weight if you carry it often.
- Piece counts can be misleading if you expect “262 sockets” (it includes bits/hex keys/accessories too).
- Like any big kit, some buyers report occasional missing pieces or early breakage in reviews, so it’s worth checking your inventory right after delivery.
How I’d set it up on day one (so it stays organized)
I treat a big mechanics set like a kitchen: a little setup at the start saves time every single use.
- Open every drawer and do a quick visual inventory to confirm nothing is missing.
- Decide a “home” for frequently used items (common sockets, the 3/8″ ratchet, extensions) so your hands learn where they live.
- Keep one drawer as your “fast grab” drawer for the stuff you reach for constantly.
That’s it—simple, but it keeps a premium kit feeling premium.
FAQ
Is the CRAFTSMAN 262 piece mechanic tool set SAE and metric?
Yes—this CRAFTSMAN 262 piece mechanic tool set is described as a standard (SAE) and metric mechanics tool set, and it includes a large socket assortment.
Does it come with deep sockets and spark plug sockets?
Yes—the supporting manual breakdown lists standard and deep sockets, and it includes spark plug sockets as well.
What does “72-tooth ratchet” and “5° arc swing” mean?
This set’s ratchets are described as 72-tooth with a 5-degree arc swing, which generally indicates you need less handle movement to engage the next “click,” helping when space is tight.
Is it compatible with the VERSASTACK storage system?
The product is stated as VERSASTACK compatible, and Craftsman describes VERSASTACK as a stackable system with compatible units and durable side latches.
- Low profile ratchet: up to 25% thinner head* for access in tight spaces. 72-tooth ratchet delivers 5 degree arc swing
- All in one mechanics set: hand tools contains a full assortment of socket wrench set, ratchet set, wrenches, hex socket …
- Includes (118) Sockets (3) Ratchets (24) Wrenches (44) Hex Keys (66) Specialty Bits (7) Accessories
$129.00
