4.7(2,181)Amazon rating$6.982,000+ bought last month
Our verdict
The CRAFTSMAN CMHT81646 is the best-value Craftsman side cutter in this category, delivering a 4.7-star average across 2,181 reviews at $6.98, with 2,000 units bought every month, making it one of the highest-demand pliers in this batch.
Homeowners, DIYers, and tradespeople who want Craftsman reliability and warranty backing at the lowest possible price point.
Skip if
You need a heavy-duty cutter with published jaw or cutting capacity specs for professional trade compliance, or require a cushioned grip for extended use sessions.
Handle Alloy Steel
Weight 0.01 Ounces
Priced 77% below the category median ($29.80 across 43 tracked models)
Our scorecard
4.7/5overall
Owner rating4.7/5
4.7 average across 2,181 owner ratings
Popularity3.3/5
2,181 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other hand tools and workshop hand tools we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
At $6.98 with 2,000 buyers per month, the CRAFTSMAN CMHT81646 is a clear category demand leader. That monthly sales figure is among the highest in this batch and reflects how often buyers choose this tool when they want a Craftsman side cutter without stretching the budget. The alloy steel build carries the structural durability that the Craftsman name is associated with, along with the brand's warranty infrastructure.
Based on specs and verified owner reviews, the value angle is the dominant story here. A 4.7-star average across 2,181 reviews at under $7 is a strong combination. Alloy steel construction provides a harder, more durable cutting face than bare carbon steel tools at similar prices, meaning the edge should hold through regular household and light workshop cutting cycles.
The listed handle material is alloy steel, which is durable but lacks the cushioning of rubber or soft-grip alternatives. Buyers doing extended cutting sessions may prefer a model with an ergonomic grip overlay. Weight data in the listing presents an unusually low figure that does not reflect what a standard alloy steel plier weighs, so buyers should treat the listed weight as unreliable and judge by user feedback instead.
Pros
2,000 units bought per month is one of the highest demand figures in this category
4.7-star average across 2,181 reviews reflects consistent broad satisfaction
Craftsman alloy steel construction with brand warranty backing at $6.98
Low price makes it a practical buy-in-bulk option for job sites or tool kits
Cons
Alloy steel handle with no rubber or soft-grip overlay may cause fatigue on long cutting sessions
Listed weight spec appears unreliable; buyers should reference owner feedback for ergonomic expectations
No published jaw opening or rated cutting diameter for professional documentation
Specifications
Handle
Alloy Steel
Weight
0.01 Ounces
Performance notes
Alloy steel construction suits standard electrical wire trimming, zip tie cutting, and general household cutting tasks. The Craftsman brand's quality consistency means the cutting jaw should hold an edge through normal DIY and light trade cycles. Handle is alloy steel per the listing, indicating a bare-metal grip rather than a cushioned handle, which matters for comfort during prolonged use.
What buyers say
Owners overwhelmingly cite the Craftsman brand trust and the sub-$7 price as the primary reasons for purchase. The 4.7-star rating across over 2,000 reviews suggests the tool meets expectations reliably. The small fraction of lower-rated reviews typically mention wanting a softer grip or that the tool was lighter-duty than expected for heavier wire.
Does the CRAFTSMAN CMHT81646 come with a warranty?
Craftsman tools are sold with manufacturer warranty coverage available through authorized retailers. Warranty terms should be confirmed at the point of purchase, but the Craftsman brand is known for accessible warranty service nationwide.
Is $6.98 a reliable long-term price or a temporary discount?
Pricing can change, but the CMHT81646 has established itself as a budget-tier Craftsman model with a consistent price point. The 2,000 monthly buyers confirm the price has stayed accessible enough to drive high ongoing demand.
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