Craftsman
Craftsman V20 Brushless RP CMCS351 Reciprocating Saw
The flagship of Craftsman's V20 recip lineup, the Brushless RP CMCS351B (launched with the RP line in 2022, superseding the CMCS350) delivers up to 75% more power than the brushed CMCS300 and tops the value class at 3,200 SPM. A two-speed selector, tool-free blade release, and LED light cover the essentials, and Ace Hardware buyers rate it 5.0 stars across 76 reviews — though it skips pro features like orbital action and a rafter hook.
Specifications
Features
Pros
- ✓Up to 75% more power than Craftsman's brushed V20 saws, with a class-topping 3,200 SPM max speed.
- ✓Two-speed selector (0-2,300 / 0-3,200 SPM) gives better control for metal and PVC than single-range budget saws.
- ✓Light and compact — 6.92 lbs bare with a contoured overmolded grip that's easy to work into stud bays.
- ✓Owners love it: 5.0-star average across 76 reviews at Ace Hardware.
- ✓Aggressively discounted — Ace Rewards has run it at $99 (from $169 list), and Lowe's regularly promos the V20 line.
- ✓Tool-free blade release and bright LED cover the everyday conveniences.
- ✓V20 is one of the cheapest big-box battery ecosystems to expand, sold at Lowe's and Ace nationwide.
- ✓3-year limited warranty is solid for a value brand.
Cons
- ✗No orbital action — noticeably slower than orbital-equipped saws on wood demolition.
- ✗Shorter 1-1/8 in stroke moves less material per pass than the 1-1/4 in pro class.
- ✗No rafter hook, no electric brake, and no adjustable shoe refinements — the feature list is bare-bones.
- ✗DIY-grade output: it can't match 18V pro flagships (Milwaukee Fuel, DeWalt Elite) in sustained heavy demo work.
- ✗Craftsman recommends 4.0Ah+ batteries for full performance, which adds real cost to the bare tool.
- ✗No kitted version of this model — you must buy battery and charger separately (only the brushed CMCS300 comes as a kit).
- ✗ToolGuyd questioned the Brushless RP line's value at list price — the $169 non-promo price crowds pro-brand territory.
- ✗V20 packs are smaller than pro 18V lines, so runtime on long demo days is limited.
Common Questions
Can I buy the CMCS351 as a kit with a battery?
What's the two-speed selector actually useful for?
Is it up to serious demolition work?
How much should I actually pay for one?
What conveniences does it skip?
Compare the Craftsman V20 Brushless RP CMCS351 Reciprocating Saw
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