Craftsman
Craftsman V20 Brushless RP CMCG451 Angle Grinder
Craftsman's flagship grinder, part of the higher-output V20 BRUSHLESS RP line (2022) that sits above the brushed CMCG400. The brushless motor delivers up to 65% more power than Craftsman's base grinder, spinning 4-1/2-inch wheels at 8,500 RPM. A no-lock paddle switch, tool-free guard adjustment, 3-position side handle, and VERSATRACK wall-storage compatibility round out a simple, light 4.4-lb package. Listed at $149 but persistently discounted - Lowe's had it at $99 and Amazon deals dip to $79.
Specifications
Features
Pros
- ✓Cheapest street price in the class - regularly $99 at Lowe's and spotted as low as $79 on Amazon, roughly half a pro-brand bare tool.
- ✓4.5-star average across 92 Ace Hardware reviews, with Amazon listings scoring even higher - owners are consistently satisfied for DIY duty.
- ✓Lightest grinder in this roundup at 4.4 lbs bare - easy to control for beginners and comfortable overhead.
- ✓Brushless RP motor's 65%-more-power claim translates to real cutting ability on rebar, bolts, and fence posts that the brushed CMCG400 struggles with.
- ✓Tool-free guard adjustment and 3-position side handle match features of grinders costing twice as much.
- ✓No-lock paddle switch is a safe, approachable format for first-time grinder users.
- ✓V20 batteries are cheap, widely stocked at Lowe's and Ace, and shared across a huge DIY tool line.
- ✓3-year limited warranty and VERSATRACK compatibility for garage organization.
Cons
- ✗No electric brake - the wheel free-spins after release, a safety feature every pro-tier rival here includes.
- ✗No kickback/bind-up shutoff electronics like Bosch KickBack Control, Flex's sensor, or Metabo HPT's anti-kickback.
- ✗8,500 RPM is the slowest top speed in this roundup, and there's no variable speed for flap-disc or polishing work.
- ✗4-1/2-inch wheels only - no 5- or 6-inch capacity.
- ✗Craftsman rates power against its own base model, not a corded amp class - sustained heavy grinding is beyond its DIY brief.
- ✗Small 2Ah V20 packs sag under load; realistic grinding needs 4Ah+ batteries that cost nearly as much as the tool.
- ✗No dedicated single-tool kit SKU - you assemble batteries and charger separately or via bundles.
- ✗No connected features, LED lights, or dust-management options - it's a bare-bones spec sheet.
Common Questions
What jobs is a $99 grinder actually good for?
Does the wheel stop when I let go?
What size V20 battery does it need?
Is it beginner-friendly?
Where are the best prices on it?
Compare the Craftsman V20 Brushless RP CMCG451 Angle Grinder
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