The Craftsman 41AS360G799 four-cycle gas blower/vac is a powerful, quieter and more environmentally friendly alternative to the many two-cycle gas blowers now available. It's great if you need powerful blowing without the limitation of an extension cord. But at 19 pounds, it is rather heavy.

The Craftsman 41AS360G799 boasts an Incredi-PULL starting system with MAXFire ignition to make starting easy. The four-cycle engine with dual piston rings means quiet operation, low vibration, good fuel efficiency and low environmental emissions.

We like that the four-cycle Craftsman 41AS360G799 blower/vacuum operates as a powerful blower without the sound level and environmental emissions of a two-cycle gas blower. And there is no need to mix oil and gas for this four-cycle unit. We found that the Craftsman 41AS360G799 is a workhorse blower; it moves and piles leaves quickly and easily -- even wet leaves -- in a large yard. It is rather heavy, however, at 19 pounds, so it requires some strength from the user, especially for extended work periods. In our tests, the 79498 started easily as long as we followed the directions and didn't pull the starter cord all the way out. As a vacuum, though, the unit -- as with most models -- didn't perform as well as the manufacturer claims, but it still did an exceptional job. The impeller can clog if a lot of debris other than leaves is vacuumed.

The variable-speed throttle makes it easy to control the air power through the nozzle so you can use full power for tough jobs and gentle power around flowers, bushes and other sensitive areas. The dual operating handles are great for comfortably using this 19-pound tool. The vacuum kit is included with a 1-bushel bag and shoulder strap.

If you're looking for a powerful gas blower with some vacuuming capability, you won't go wrong with the Craftsman 41AS360G799. Its quiet four-cycle engine should last through many yard cleaning seasons.


Pros: Clean and quiet four-cycle engine, no need to mix oil and gas, no power cord needed, includes vacuum kit
Cons: Heavy, disappointing vacuuming capability

Warranty
2 years, limited