CRAFTSMAN CMCS351B V20 BRUSHLESS RP reciprocating saw (tool only) review

A V20 saw with a two-speed selector

CMCS351B is CRAFTSMAN's brushless V20 reciprocating saw in a tool-only package. It is distinct from the compact one-handed CMCS340B and the brushed CMCS300: the model-matched CMCS351 manual identifies a main handle and a second hand grip, and specifically directs the operator to hold this saw firmly with both hands for cutting. The manufacturer's product page describes a compact design for access, but that does not change the documented two-hand grip. If one-handed handling is the essential requirement, compare the CMCS340B or another model expressly assessed for that format rather than treating “compact” as a shortcut to a different use classification.

Its headline control difference is the selector for two no-load ranges: 0–2,300 SPM on low and 0–3,200 SPM on high. The variable-speed trigger modulates operation within the selected range. The manual says to allow the tool to stop fully before switching speeds, so this is not a live-shift control. The figures describe unloaded strokes per minute, not a measured cutting rate or a guarantee for a particular blade and material. CRAFTSMAN states the brushless motor offers up to 75% more power than its brushed CMCS300 when measuring unit watts out with a 4.0Ah battery sold separately. Treat that as the maker's comparison under its stated condition—not as proof of 75% faster cuts, 75% more runtime in every task, or a comparative test performed for this review.

Blade changes and contact with the work

The exact page lists a tool-free blade release, a bright LED and a pivoting shoe. The manual explains the collar change: remove the pack, rotate the tab-operated collar fully open, seat the blade, release the collar and tug gently to check retention. CRAFTSMAN also warns not to use jigsaw blades in the saw. The supplied blade is one six-inch 5/8-TPI reciprocating-saw blade; a buyer should still match blade material and tooth pattern to the cut, and check that the chosen length remains beyond both shoe and workpiece through the stroke.

For control, the manual advises securing or clamping stock and keeping the shoe against the material when possible. It cautions that a blade can bind and cause kickback, and warns about hidden wiring, pipes and overhead hazards before plunge or overhead work. The LED is intended to light the immediate surface, not replace a work light. A pivoting shoe provides contact as the saw angle changes, but the documents do not specify indexed positions, a sliding shoe adjustment or a selectable orbital mode. Do not count those undocumented features as part of the purchase case.

Battery recommendation and box contents

The -B package contains the CMCS351B saw and one listed blade; it does not include a battery or charger. CRAFTSMAN identifies the tool as part of its V20 system and says to use a V20 4.0Ah-or-larger pack to optimize performance. That is a maker recommendation, not an included battery or a minimum compatibility rule. The manual's battery chart lists CRAFTSMAN 20V Max lithium-ion pack and charger families, while the page footnote clarifies 20V MAX is maximum initial voltage and 18V is nominal. Confirm both exact pack and charger compatibility before treating the tool-only SKU as complete. A separately sold battery may also affect carry weight and balance; the 5.9-pound product-page figure does not represent a battery-installed combination.

The exact page's structured dimensions list a 17-inch assembled length and 5.9-pound assembled product weight. The same page marks the package tool-only, shows no included battery and lists the saw with one blade, so this assessment uses 5.9 pounds as the documented saw-only weight for the questionnaire's maximum bare-tool comparison—not as the weight of a charged-up kit, case or full jobsite setup. On the half-pound input scale, it exceeds a 5.5-pound ceiling and falls within a 6-pound maximum. Check the product label and current page if weight is a hard buying constraint, and remember a larger battery will add to the carried setup.

Where it fits in the CRAFTSMAN range

Choose this model for consideration when a two-handed V20 saw with a low/high speed choice, brushless motor, tool-free blade change and work light matches the job. Its 4.0Ah-or-larger recommendation should be part of the battery budget, because the exact SKU supplies neither pack nor charger. The compact CMCS340B instead emphasizes light one-handed access and has a shorter 3/4-inch stroke; its exact page has conflicting weight and length figures, so those should not be used as settled values. CMCS300 has a one-inch stroke but is a brushed body whose manual requires two hands; its -M1 retail package differs from this bare-tool -B package. Those comparisons are about published format and package facts, not a hands-on performance ranking.

Before buying, verify the complete CMCS351B model number, the one-blade Includes list, your existing V20 pack and charger, and the recommended capacity. Check that the chosen blade is appropriate and that you can support the material and use a two-hand grip. CRAFTSMAN lists a three-year limited warranty, but warranty conditions should be checked in current manufacturer documents. This assessment is based on the exact U.S. product page and linked model manual; it does not report physical testing, ownership, measured cutting results, price, stock or customer experience.

Sources checked 2026-11-02: CRAFTSMAN CMCS351B U.S. product page and its directly linked CMCS351 two-speed instruction manual, NA109799.