Don't need a big, fancy vacuum for small jobs around your shop? The Craftsman 17741 wet-dry vacuum is a good choice. It's sufficiently powerful, portable -- and has a low cost. For about $40 you get a wet-dry vacuum that's adequate for many small jobs. And it doubles as a leaf blower for cleaning off the driveway!

Rated at 3 peak hp, the Craftsman 17741 (Sears item 00917741000) gets its power from a 7.3-amp motor. Tank capacity is just 6 gallons, but that's adequate for most smaller jobs around the shop and it makes the unit relatively lightweight: 16 pounds when empty. The power cord extends to 10 feet and wraps around the polypropylene case when not in use.

The 7-foot hose has a 2-1/2-inch diameter, which is standard size for large wet-dry vacs. Many of the other low-priced vacs have 1-1/4-inch hoses that may be prone to plugging. The 17741 does it right. There are two extension wands for the hose that give extra reach so you don't have to always drag the vac to where you need it. In addition, it has a single utility nozzle. It's a basic model. In fact, it doesn't have a filter so you have to be a little careful in what you vacuum.

Want it even better? Wait for the 17741 to go on sale. Sears puts this model on sale at least once a year and you can save $5-10. However, even at full price, the Craftsman 17741 wet-dry vacuum is a good deal.


Pros: Low cost, light weight, sufficient power and capacity for small jobs
Cons: May need extra nozzles for special jobs

Warranty
1 year, limited