Craftsman 79957

Discontinued
Reviewed
July 2009
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Craftsman 79957

Pros
  • Bargain price
  • Excellent value
  • Lightweight
  • Lock-on main switch prevents trigger fatigue
Cons
  • More vibration than other trimmers
  • Ill suited for large jobs
  • Cord can get in the way, posing a safety hazard
 
 
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The Craftsman 79957 corded electric hedge trimmer is recommended by reviewers as a good budget choice suitable for moderate or occasional jobs. Popular Mechanics magazine expert testers report that the Craftsman hedge trimmer (reviewed in 2004 as the Craftsman 79975) can cut branches up to 1/2 inch in diameter. One reviewer notes that the Craftsman's noise and vibration levels are "average" for electric hedge trimmers in this price range, but also points out that you'll get smoother operation with more expensive models.

At 7.6 pounds, the Craftsman 79957 is fairly light, making it easier to handle. Reviewers especially like the Craftsman hedge trimmer's lock-on switch, which lets the motor and blades continue operating without the need to keep the trigger depressed, reducing hand fatigue for the user. If you want a quiet and relatively inexpensive electric hedge trimmer for quick jobs, but don't want to hassle with a cord, consider the Black & Decker NHT518 (*Est. $80), which runs off rechargeable 18-volt battery packs.

We found the best professional reviews of the Craftsman electric hedge trimmer at Popular Mechanics magazine and ConsumerReports.org, both of which include it in comparison tests against other hedge trimmers in its class. We also found close to 20 helpful user reviews at Sears.com, where Craftsman tools are sold.

     
   
 
 
 
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Our Sources

1. ConsumerReports.org

Consumer Reports compares 14 gas and electric hedge trimmers, including the Craftsman 79957, rating each on power, safety, ease of use and more.

Review: Hedge Trimmers, Editors of ConsumerReports.org, May 2008

2. PopularMechanics.com

Popular Mechanics pits six hedge trimmers against one another, including the Craftsman 79957 (then called the 79975), which is praised for its powerful motor, light weight and low price. Reviewer Joe Provey expresses concern about safety issues though, noting that the blade continues to run for a few seconds after you release the trigger. Ultimately, the Craftsman electric hedge trimmer is recommended as a budget choice. This older review from Popular Mechanics magazine is now archived at Highbeam.com.

Review: Hedge Hoggers: We Test Six Hedge Trimmers for Power, Convenience and Safety, Joe Provey, August 2004

3. Sears.com

The Craftsman 79957 has an average rating of 4.4 stars out of five on Sears.com from about 20 user-reviewers. Many owners report that the Craftsman 22-inch electric hedge trimmer is more than powerful enough to meet their trimming needs, while a few complain about things like an uncomfortable handle, the hassle of replacing blades, and the trimmer's not-so-smooth operation.

Review: Craftsman 22 inch Electric Hedge Trimmer, Contributors to Sears.com

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Black & Decker TR016 2.6 amp 16-Inch Electric Hedge Trimmer
In Stock.
Average Customer Review:  
 
 
 
 
     
   
 
 
 

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