If you’re in the market for a new lawnmower, you’ve probably encountered the Craftsman brand. Known for its durable tools and equipment, Craftsman has been a household name for decades. But when it comes to lawn mowers, you might be wondering: who actually makes these machines?
This article will delve into the fascinating world of Craftsman lawn mowers, exploring their history, the companies behind their production, and what this means for you as a consumer. We’ll cover everything from the evolution of the brand to the current state of affairs, offering insights into the quality, reliability, and overall value of Craftsman mowers.
The Craftsman Legacy: A History of Tools and Innovation
Craftsman, originally established in 1927, built its reputation on offering durable, affordable tools and equipment. The brand became synonymous with quality and reliability, especially in the realm of hand tools. However, their product line expanded to encompass power tools, lawn care equipment, and more.
For many years, Craftsman lawn mowers were manufactured by Sears Roebuck and Company, the retail giant that originally owned the brand. Sears, in turn, often partnered with other manufacturers to produce Craftsman products, including lawn mowers. This practice, known as private labeling, became a standard in the industry, allowing companies like Sears to offer a wide range of products under their own brand name.
The Changing Landscape: Craftsman’s Journey to Today
The landscape of the lawn mower industry changed dramatically in the 2000s. Sears, facing financial struggles, divested many of its brands, including Craftsman. In 2017, Stanley Black & Decker acquired the iconic brand, marking a turning point in Craftsman’s history.
With this acquisition, the production and distribution of Craftsman lawn mowers shifted as well. Stanley Black & Decker, a global leader in tools and hardware, has a long history of manufacturing and selling its own branded products. This means that Craftsman lawn mowers, while still bearing the familiar name and logo, are now produced under Stanley Black & Decker’s umbrella.
Who Makes Craftsman Lawn Mowers Today?
The answer to the question “who makes Craftsman lawn mowers” today is complex. While Stanley Black & Decker owns the brand, they don’t necessarily manufacture every single model. The company often outsources production to other manufacturers, utilizing their expertise and resources.
Here are some of the manufacturers known to produce Craftsman lawn mowers:
- MTD Products: A major player in the outdoor power equipment industry, MTD often manufactures Craftsman mowers, especially those in the lower-priced range.
- Briggs & Stratton: This company, well-known for its engines, is also a manufacturer of lawn mowers, and some Craftsman models are made by Briggs & Stratton.
- Other manufacturers: It’s possible that Craftsman lawn mowers are also produced by other manufacturers, depending on the specific model and the needs of Stanley Black & Decker.
What This Means for Consumers
The changing landscape of Craftsman lawn mower production has implications for consumers. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons:
Pros:
- Wider product range: Stanley Black & Decker’s expertise and resources have allowed for a wider selection of Craftsman lawn mowers, catering to diverse needs and budgets.
- Potential for improved quality: Stanley Black & Decker’s reputation for quality might translate into better-built Craftsman mowers in some cases.
- Reliable parts and service: As the brand owner, Stanley Black & Decker ensures parts availability and service for Craftsman mowers.
Cons:
- Brand confusion: The shift in ownership and manufacturing might lead to some confusion for consumers, especially those familiar with the “Sears-era” Craftsman.
- Varying quality: Since production is often outsourced, the quality of Craftsman lawn mowers can vary depending on the specific manufacturer involved.
Tips for Choosing a Craftsman Lawn Mower
Here are some tips to ensure you get a quality Craftsman lawn mower:
- Research specific models: Before purchasing, do your research to understand the manufacturer of the particular model you’re considering.
- Read reviews: Check online reviews and forums to gain insights into the performance and reliability of specific Craftsman mowers.
- Consider your needs: Choose a model that meets your specific lawn size, terrain, and desired features.
- Look for warranties: Pay attention to the warranty offered, as it reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in the product.
Conclusion:
The question of who makes Craftsman lawn mowers has a dynamic answer. While Stanley Black & Decker owns the brand, production is often outsourced to various manufacturers. This means that the quality and reliability of Craftsman lawn mowers can vary. By doing your research, reading reviews, and considering your needs, you can make an informed decision and find a Craftsman mower that suits your budget and lawn care requirements. Remember, the legacy of Craftsman lives on, but the brand’s journey continues to evolve in the dynamic world of lawn care equipment.
FAQs
1. Who currently manufactures Craftsman lawn mowers?
Craftsman lawn mowers are currently manufactured by Husqvarna, a Swedish company known for its outdoor power equipment. Husqvarna acquired the Craftsman brand in 2017 from Sears Holdings. This means that the lawn mowers, along with other Craftsman tools and appliances, are now designed and manufactured by Husqvarna, but still carry the Craftsman name and branding.
2. Were Craftsman lawn mowers always made by Husqvarna?
No, Craftsman lawn mowers were not always made by Husqvarna. Before the 2017 acquisition, Sears Holdings owned the Craftsman brand and contracted with various manufacturers to produce their tools and appliances. These manufacturers included MTD Products, Toro, Briggs & Stratton, and others. This means that the Craftsman lawn mowers you see in stores today are likely different from models made in previous years, especially those made before 2017.
3. What happened to Sears and the Craftsman brand?
Sears Holdings, the parent company of Sears and Kmart, filed for bankruptcy in 2018 and began selling off its assets. The Craftsman brand was one of the assets that was sold, ultimately landing with Husqvarna. This change in ownership has impacted the manufacturing and distribution of Craftsman products, as Husqvarna now manages all aspects of the brand.
4. Are Craftsman lawn mowers still good quality?
Yes, Craftsman lawn mowers continue to be considered good quality, even with the change in manufacturer. Husqvarna is a reputable company with a long history of producing high-quality outdoor power equipment. They have integrated the Craftsman brand into their own manufacturing processes, ensuring that the quality and reliability of the mowers remain consistent.
5. Where are Craftsman lawn mowers manufactured?
Craftsman lawn mowers are manufactured in various locations around the world, including the United States, China, and Mexico. Husqvarna maintains a global manufacturing network to ensure efficient production and distribution of their products, including Craftsman mowers.
6. What type of Craftsman lawn mowers are available?
Craftsman offers a diverse range of lawn mowers to meet different needs and budgets. They offer gas-powered mowers, electric mowers, and robotic mowers. The range includes push mowers, self-propelled mowers, and riding mowers, with various features like mulching capabilities and adjustable cutting heights.
7. Can I still find old Craftsman lawn mowers?
While finding older Craftsman lawn mowers may be more difficult, you might still find them at some retailers or through online marketplaces. These mowers may require parts and maintenance from previous manufacturers, and their availability may be limited. However, many older models are still functional and can be a good option for those looking for a classic Craftsman mower.