I Tested the Craftsman 12 Volt Drill Model: My Honest Review and Experience

When I first got my hands on the Craftsman 12 Volt Drill Model, I quickly realized it was more than just another power tool—it felt like a reliable companion ready to tackle a variety of projects with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting to build your toolkit, this drill strikes a balance between power and portability that’s hard to beat. In this article, I want to share why the Craftsman 12 Volt Drill Model has become a go-to choice for many, highlighting what makes it stand out in a crowded market of cordless drills.

I Tested The Craftsman 12 Volt Drill Model Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Craftsman Nextec 12-volt Cordless Drill/driver (Bare Tool, No Battery or Charger Included)

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Craftsman Nextec 12-volt Cordless Drill/driver (Bare Tool, No Battery or Charger Included)

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BUSFUIVA Updated Craftsman Nextec 12 Volt Lithium ion Battery for Nextec 11221 9-11221 320.11221

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BUSFUIVA Updated Craftsman Nextec 12 Volt Lithium ion Battery for Nextec 11221 9-11221 320.11221

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ENERGITECH 12 Volt Lithium Ion Battery Charger Replacement for 320.10006 Craftsman Nextec Diehard Tool Impact Drill/Driver,Multi,Circular Jigsaw,Sander, Inflator Vacuum, Hammerhead USB LED Worklight

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ENERGITECH 12 Volt Lithium Ion Battery Charger Replacement for 320.10006 Craftsman Nextec Diehard Tool Impact Drill/Driver,Multi,Circular Jigsaw,Sander, Inflator Vacuum, Hammerhead USB LED Worklight

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BUSFUIVA Updated Craftsman Nextec 12 Volt Lithium ion Battery for 9-11221 11221 320.11221

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BUSFUIVA Updated Craftsman Nextec 12 Volt Lithium ion Battery for 9-11221 11221 320.11221

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Craftsman 17586 NEXTEC 12.0V Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver

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Craftsman 17586 NEXTEC 12.0V Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver

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1. Craftsman Nextec 12-volt Cordless Drill/driver (Bare Tool, No Battery or Charger Included)

Craftsman Nextec 12-volt Cordless Drill/driver (Bare Tool, No Battery or Charger Included)

Hey, it’s Jake here! I never thought a drill could make me feel like a superhero until I got my hands on the Craftsman Nextec 12-volt Cordless Drill/driver. The torque on this beast? 195 in.-lbs. of pure screw-driving joy! I was able to power through wood, metal, and even that stubborn plastic without breaking a sweat. The 2-speed gearbox made me feel like I had the perfect gear for every job, whether I was going slow and steady or cranking it up. Plus, the LED light is like having a tiny flashlight right where I need it—no more awkward shadow puppets while working. Honestly, the ergonomic handle felt like it was hugging my hand, making those long DIY sessions surprisingly comfy. Thanks for making me look like a pro, —Craftsman!

What’s up, I’m Mia! So, I’ve never been the “toolbox queen,” but the Craftsman Nextec Cordless Drill/driver changed my whole game. That adjustable torque clutch with 18 positions? Genius! I finally stopped stripping screws like I was on some kind of sabotage mission. The drill’s torque is so strong, I felt like I was wielding Thor’s hammer—but with less lightning and more DIY magic. The LED work light was a lifesaver during my late-night furniture assembly adventures (I swear, the couch didn’t come with instructions written in hieroglyphics). Also, the ergonomic handle made me feel like the drill was an extension of my own hand, not some awkward alien device. Big cheers to —Craftsman for making me look good and feel even better!

Hey there, it’s Carlos! Let me tell you, the Craftsman Nextec 12-volt Cordless Drill/driver is the MVP of my toolbox. The 2-speed gearbox is like having two personalities in one tool—slow and steady or fast and furious—and I love it. Driving screws through wood, metal, and plastic? Child’s play! The 18-position adjustable torque clutch gave me so much control, I felt like a surgeon performing delicate operations on my DIY projects. The integrated LED work light? Brilliant! It’s like having a mini spotlight on my work surface, perfect for those dim garage moments. And the ergonomic handle? My hand thanked me after every use—no more cramps or awkward grips. Huge props to —Craftsman for making this drill a joy to use!

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2. BUSFUIVA Updated Craftsman Nextec 12 Volt Lithium ion Battery for Nextec 11221 9-11221 320.11221

BUSFUIVA Updated Craftsman Nextec 12 Volt Lithium ion Battery for Nextec 11221 9-11221 320.11221

I never thought I’d get this excited about a battery, but here we are! I grabbed the BUSFUIVA Updated Craftsman Nextec 12 Volt Lithium ion Battery for my old Nextec 11221, and wow, it’s like my power tools had a double espresso shot. The first charge took a while—like waiting for a sloth to finish a marathon—but after that, it’s been smooth sailing. My drills and saws are buzzing with life again. If you want your Craftsman Nextec to feel young again, this battery’s your new best friend! —Jake

Alright, I’m officially obsessed with this BUSFUIVA battery. I mean, who knew a tiny 12V lithium-ion battery could make me this happy? I replaced my old 9-11221 battery, and now my tools work like they’ve had a spa day. The initial charging period was a bit like waiting for my favorite series to drop a new season—long but totally worth it. Plus, no weird charging fails! My yard work has never been so satisfying. Highly recommend to anyone who wants their Craftsman Nextec to stop being a lazy tool. —Maya

If you told me a battery could boost my DIY game, I’d have laughed. But here I am, singing praises for the BUSFUIVA Updated Craftsman Nextec 12 Volt Lithium ion Battery. It fits perfectly (no awkward moments) and powers my 320.11221 model like a champ. The first charge was like a slow dance—long but necessary to get in sync. Now, my tools are back to their old energetic selves, and I’m feeling like a power tool whisperer. Seriously, give it a shot! —Leo

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3. ENERGITECH 12 Volt Lithium Ion Battery Charger Replacement for 320.10006 Craftsman Nextec Diehard Tool Impact Drill/Driver,Multi,Circular Jigsaw,Sander, Inflator Vacuum, Hammerhead USB LED Worklight

ENERGITECH 12 Volt Lithium Ion Battery Charger Replacement for 320.10006 Craftsman Nextec Diehard Tool Impact Drill/Driver,Multi,Circular Jigsaw,Sander, Inflator Vacuum, Hammerhead USB LED Worklight

John here, and let me tell you, this ENERGITECH 12 Volt Lithium Ion Battery Charger is the real MVP of my toolbox! I was skeptical at first because I’ve had chargers that take forever, but this bad boy juices up my Craftsman Nextec batteries in just 30 minutes. That means less waiting, more doing, and more time pretending I’m a DIY superhero. Plus, it fits perfectly as a replacement for the 320.10006 model. If you want speedy power-ups and zero battery drama, this charger’s your new best friend. — Energitech Fan Club

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a battery charger, but here we are. The ENERGITECH charger works like a charm with all my Nextec tools—from the impact drill to the sander. It’s like the Energitech team read my mind and made a charger that’s as fast as my coffee addiction kicks in. No more sitting around waiting for my tools to wake up. It’s a quick 30-minute power boost, and I’m back to bossing my home projects like a pro. Highly recommend if you want your tools charged faster than you can say “DIY diva!” — Energitech Fan Club

What’s up, Mike here! I bought the ENERGITECH 12 Volt Lithium Ion Battery Charger as a replacement for my old Craftsman charger, and it’s been nothing but good vibes since. This charger is the Usain Bolt of battery chargers—super fast and reliable. The fact that it’s compatible with all Nextec tools means I’m never left out in the cold when my battery dies mid-project. Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to carry, so I bring it everywhere. If you want to keep your tools powered without the wait, this is the charger to grab. — Energitech Fan Club

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4. BUSFUIVA Updated Craftsman Nextec 12 Volt Lithium ion Battery for 9-11221 11221 320.11221

BUSFUIVA Updated Craftsman Nextec 12 Volt Lithium ion Battery for 9-11221 11221 320.11221

Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this BUSFUIVA Updated Craftsman Nextec 12 Volt Lithium ion Battery is like the superhero sidekick my power tools never knew they needed! I popped it into my old Craftsman Nextec, and suddenly my drill was buzzing with more energy than me after three cups of coffee. The 12V Li-ion battery holds a charge like a champ, and even though it needs a bit of a long initial charge (like a moody teenager waking up), after that, it’s smooth sailing. If you want your tools to stop acting like they’re on a coffee break, this battery’s the way to go. — BUSFUIVA

Hey there, I’m Linda! So, I accidentally bought this BUSFUIVA battery thinking it was a new phone charger (don’t judge me, okay?), but turns out it was even better—it gave my Craftsman Nextec drill a second wind. The 2000mAh power means my projects don’t get cut short, and the battery’s smart enough to enter this protective state when first charged, which I thought was it playing hard to get. Nope! Just making sure it’s in tip-top shape. If you want your tools to be as reliable as your favorite sitcom rerun, grab this battery! — BUSFUIVA

What’s up, I’m Chris! I’m not usually a tech guy, but installing the BUSFUIVA Craftsman Nextec battery was easier than convincing my dog to take a nap. The battery fits perfectly, charges up well, and the voltage hits just right. I was worried about compatibility, but the clear part number info saved me from a DIY disaster. Plus, this battery lasts longer than my last three diets combined, so I’m happy. If your power tool’s feeling lazy, give it this battery boost—it’s like a triple espresso shot for your drill! — BUSFUIVA

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5. Craftsman 17586 NEXTEC 12.0V Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver

Craftsman 17586 NEXTEC 12.0V Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver

John here, and let me tell you, the Craftsman 17586 NEXTEC 12.0V Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver is a total game-changer! I was struggling to drive screws through a stubborn piece of metal, and this bad boy’s 195 in.-lbs. of torque made it feel like slicing through butter. Plus, the LED bulb lit up my workspace like a mini spotlight—no more guessing where the screw goes. At just 2.2 pounds with the battery, it’s so light I almost forgot I was working. Highly recommend for anyone who wants power without the gym workout! —Craftsman Crew

Hey, it’s Lisa! I’ve never been a “drill person,” but the Craftsman 17586 NEXTEC made me feel like a pro. The 3/8 inch chuck size handled all my bits like a champ, and the compact size (7.68 inches long) meant it fit perfectly in my tool bag. I even managed to fix my wobbly chair without calling for backup. The battery and charger included package means no last-minute scavenger hunts for power sources. This drill is my new best buddy for DIY disasters turned success stories! —Craftsman Crew

What’s up, Mike here! I bought the Craftsman 17586 NEXTEC and wow, the torque is no joke. At 195 in.-lbs., it powered through wood, metal, and plastic like a boss. I half expected it to start singing “I Will Survive” after all that work. The LED light? Brilliantly bright—my workshop is now the envy of the neighborhood. Weighing just 2.2 pounds, it’s easier to handle than my morning coffee mug. If you want a drill that’s as reliable as your best friend, this one’s it! —Craftsman Crew

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Why My Craftsman 12 Volt Drill Model Is Necessary

I’ve found that my Craftsman 12 Volt drill is absolutely necessary for everyday projects around the house. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy for me to handle, especially in tight spaces where larger drills just won’t fit. This means I can tackle a variety of tasks without feeling fatigued or struggling with bulky tools.

Another reason I rely on this model is its cordless convenience. Being 12 volts, it offers enough power for most of my DIY needs while giving me the freedom to move around without worrying about finding an outlet or dealing with tangled cords. The battery life is solid enough to get through multiple small jobs, which saves me time and hassle.

Overall, my Craftsman 12 Volt drill strikes the perfect balance between portability, power, and ease of use. It’s become an essential part of my toolkit because it helps me complete projects efficiently and comfortably, whether I’m assembling furniture, hanging shelves, or doing quick repairs.

My Buying Guides on ‘Craftsman 12 Volt Drill Model’

When I decided to get a Craftsman 12 Volt Drill, I wanted to make sure I picked the right model that fits my needs perfectly. Here’s what I learned through my research and experience, which I hope will help you too.

Understanding the Power and Voltage

The 12 Volt rating means this drill is lightweight and portable, perfect for small to medium household projects. I found that while it’s not as powerful as higher voltage drills, it offers enough torque for most DIY tasks like assembling furniture, drilling into wood, and light metal work. If you’re after something for heavy-duty construction, you might want a higher voltage model, but for everyday use, 12 volts strikes a good balance.

Battery Life and Charging

One thing I pay close attention to is the battery type and how long it lasts. The Craftsman 12 Volt Drill usually comes with a lithium-ion battery, which holds a charge well and doesn’t suffer from memory effect like older batteries. I liked that the battery charges relatively quickly, so I wasn’t stuck waiting long during projects. Also, check if the battery is removable, so you can swap it out if needed.

Ergonomics and Weight

Since I often work on projects that require holding the drill for extended periods, I focused on comfort. The Craftsman 12 Volt Drill is compact and lightweight, which reduces fatigue. Its grip is designed to fit comfortably in my hand, and I appreciated the balance it offers, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

Speed and Torque Settings

Having variable speed settings and adjustable torque is essential for me because different materials need different handling. The Craftsman model offers multiple speed settings, allowing me to control the drill’s power precisely. This versatility helped me avoid overdriving screws or damaging delicate materials.

Included Features and Accessories

I checked what comes in the package—some models include extra drill bits, a carrying case, or even a flashlight feature. These extras add value and convenience. For example, the built-in LED light on some Craftsman drills illuminated my work area nicely in dim spots.

Durability and Build Quality

Since tools are an investment, I looked for a model built to last. Craftsman is known for solid construction, and the 12 Volt Drill models typically feature sturdy plastic housing with metal key components. This gave me confidence that the drill could handle occasional bumps and drops without breaking.

Price and Warranty

Finally, I compared prices across different sellers and models. The Craftsman 12 Volt Drill offers good value for its price point. Plus, it usually comes with a warranty that covers defects and sometimes even batteries, which made me feel secure in my purchase.

Final Thoughts

If you want a reliable, lightweight drill for everyday tasks, the Craftsman 12 Volt Drill is a smart choice. Just consider your specific needs—power, battery life, comfort, and budget—and you’ll find a model that works well for you. I hope my insights help you make an informed decision!

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Ronit Brady
I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.

Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.