CRAFTSMAN V20 RP Cordless String Trimmer and Lawn Edger Kit
✅ PROS
- Dual-function design converts from trimmer to edger in under 30 seconds with no tools required
- Bump-feed line head is genuinely reliable — rarely jams, easy to reload with pre-wound spools
- Includes 2.0Ah battery and charger; V20 platform means you can share batteries with other Craftsman tools
❌ CONS
- 2.0Ah battery is small — expect 20-25 minutes of continuous trimming on thick grass
- Fixed handle position can feel awkward for taller users (over 6 feet) during extended edging work
The Verdict
If you’re staring at a string trimmer aisle wondering whether cordless has finally caught up to gas, the CRAFTSMAN V20 RP is a solid answer — with some caveats. This isn’t the most powerful trimmer on the market, but it’s one of the most practical for suburban yards under a quarter acre. Here’s what 220 buyers and my own research say you should know before spending your money.
What’s in the box
You get the trimmer/edger combo unit, a 2.0Ah V20 lithium-ion battery, a charger, and a pre-wound spool of line. The kit also includes the edger guide wheel attachment that flips down with a foot press — no tools, no wrestling with clips. Assembly takes about five minutes: slide the two shaft pieces together, tighten the collar, and you’re done.
Real-world performance
The V20 motor delivers enough torque to chew through standard Bermuda and fescue without bogging down — as long as you’re not letting the grass get jungle-height. One buyer noted: “I was skeptical about battery power, but it cuts through my thick St. Augustine like butter.” The bump-feed head is a highlight: tap it on the ground and you get fresh line instantly, no disassembly. The 13-inch cutting swath is narrower than the 15-16 inch gas models, but it’s a fair tradeoff for the weight savings — this thing is noticeably lighter than any gas trimmer you’ve used.
The edger function is where this kit earns its keep. Flip the head 90 degrees, drop the guide wheel, and you get clean, consistent edges along driveways and sidewalks. It’s not as aggressive as a dedicated steel-blade edger, but for maintaining existing edges, it does the job without the exhaust fumes.
What buyers consistently praise
- Weight and balance: At roughly 8 pounds with battery, it’s manageable for a full yard session. Multiple reviewers mention their wives and older teens use it without complaint.
- Battery platform flexibility: If you already own CRAFTSMAN V20 tools, this shares the same battery. One reviewer said: “I have four V20 batteries from other tools — this trimmer just became my go-to because I never run out of juice.”
- Reliability: The line feed rarely jams, and the motor has held up for a full season for most owners.
Where it falls short
The included 2.0Ah battery is honestly undersized for this tool. On thick grass, you’re looking at 20-25 minutes of continuous runtime — enough for a small yard, but you’ll want a second battery or a 4.0Ah upgrade if you’re doing a larger property. Expect to buy one separately; that’s another $50-60.
The fixed handle position is also a minor annoyance. At 5'10", I’m fine, but taller reviewers note their wrists cramp during extended edging sessions because the grip doesn’t adjust. Finally, this is not a brush cutter — if you have heavy weeds or overgrown ditches, rent a gas unit.
Who should buy this
- Suburban homeowners with 1/4 acre or less who want cordless convenience without gas maintenance
- CRAFTSMAN V20 ecosystem owners who already have spare batteries
- First-time trimmer buyers who want a simple, low-learning-curve tool for basic maintenance
Skip it if you have a large property (half acre+), need to clear heavy brush, or you’re a professional landscaper. This is a homeowner tool, not a commercial one.
FAQ
Q: How long does the battery actually last? A: Realistic runtime is 20-25 minutes of active trimming on 2.0Ah. In light grass with frequent stops, you might stretch it to 30. Plan for one battery charge per small yard, or buy a second battery.
Q: Can I use other CRAFTSMAN V20 batteries? A: Yes. All V20 batteries are cross-compatible. A 4.0Ah battery will roughly double your runtime.
Q: Does the edger attachment actually work well? A: For maintaining existing edges, yes. It’s not for cutting new edges into overgrown turf, but for keeping sidewalk and driveway lines clean, it does a respectable job.
The Verdict
Buy it if: You want a lightweight, versatile cordless trimmer/edger for a standard suburban yard and already have or plan to invest in the V20 battery platform.
Skip it if: You need serious cutting power, have a large property, or don’t want to deal with the undersized included battery.
Rating: 4.2/5 — A genuinely good tool held back by a stingy battery inclusion. With a 4.0Ah battery, this jumps to a 4.5. As-is, it’s a solid buy for small yards, a frustrating one for larger lots.
Where to Buy
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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.