Many people recognize the Craftsman brand as a symbol of reliability in tools and outdoor power equipment, especially lawn mowers. Walk into any American hardware store, and you’ll likely see a row of red-and-black Craftsman mowers. But who actually makes Craftsman lawn mowers? The answer is not simple, and the story behind it reveals much about manufacturing, branding, and the changing face of the lawn care industry. Whether you want to buy a Craftsman mower, already own one, or are just curious about the brand’s history, understanding who makes these machines can help you make smarter choices.
The Origin Of Craftsman Lawn Mowers
The Craftsman brand started in 1927. It was created by Sears, Roebuck and Co., which was at that time one of the most influential retailers in the United States. Sears introduced Craftsman as its premium tool line. Over the decades, Craftsman became famous for hand tools, but it quickly expanded into power tools and lawn equipment.
Early Craftsman lawn mowers were not made by Sears itself. Instead, Sears partnered with established manufacturers to build mowers under the Craftsman name. This approach allowed Sears to offer a wide range of products without needing its own factories. It also meant that the makers of Craftsman mowers could change over time, depending on deals and market needs.
Key Manufacturers Of Craftsman Lawn Mowers
Today, Craftsman lawn mowers are produced by more than one company. This has always been the case, but the names behind the machines have changed as the industry evolved.
Modern Era: Stanley Black & Decker
Since 2017, Stanley Black & Decker owns the Craftsman brand. This global tool giant bought Craftsman from Sears Holdings for about $900 million. Stanley Black & Decker is known for brands like DeWalt, Black+Decker, and Porter-Cable, so they have vast experience in both hand and power tools.
However, Stanley Black & Decker does not build every Craftsman lawn mower directly in its own factories. Instead, it outsources manufacturing to other companies with expertise in outdoor power equipment.
Primary Manufacturers
The three most important companies behind today’s Craftsman mowers are:
- MTD Products
- Husqvarna Group
- Briggs & Stratton
1. Mtd Products
MTD Products is the main producer of most Craftsman lawn tractors, riding mowers, and walk-behind mowers. MTD is a well-known name in outdoor power equipment, making brands like Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, and Yard Machines.
- Location: MTD is based in Ohio, USA, with several manufacturing plants in the US and overseas.
- Role: Builds most Craftsman riding mowers, zero-turn mowers, and gas-powered walk-behind mowers.
- Ownership: In 2021, Stanley Black & Decker agreed to buy all of MTD Products, further integrating the Craftsman mower production process.
2. Husqvarna Group
The Husqvarna Group is a Swedish company known for its chainsaws, robotic mowers, and other outdoor equipment. For several years, Husqvarna produced Craftsman lawn tractors and some push mowers, especially during the 2000s and early 2010s.
- Location: Husqvarna manufactures in the US, Sweden, and other countries.
- Role: Built Craftsman lawn tractors and push mowers for Sears under contract.
- Current Status: Husqvarna’s role in Craftsman manufacturing has decreased since 2017 as contracts shifted.
3. Briggs & Stratton
Briggs & Stratton is most famous for its small engines, but it also builds some Craftsman push mowers and provides engines for many Craftsman models.
- Location: Based in Wisconsin, USA.
- Role: Manufactures engines and, at times, whole mowers for Craftsman.
- Specialty: Supplies engines for both walk-behind and riding mowers.
Past Manufacturers
Over the years, other companies have built Craftsman mowers under contract, including:
- Electrolux
- American Yard Products (AYP)
- Roper
- Poulan
Their involvement has faded as the Craftsman brand changed hands and as manufacturing deals shifted.
How Craftsman Mowers Are Made: The Process
It’s helpful to understand that Craftsman is a brand, not a manufacturer. That means that Craftsman lawn mowers are built by other companies to Craftsman’s specifications and standards. This is called “private labeling.”
Design And Engineering
Stanley Black & Decker, working with MTD and other partners, sets the design requirements for Craftsman mowers. This includes everything from the mower’s deck size and cutting height to its color, features, and branding.
- Innovation: Some Craftsman mowers have unique features, like “ReadyStart” engines or “Turn Tight” steering, that are designed for Craftsman but built by contract manufacturers.
- Testing: Before a new mower reaches stores, it’s tested for safety, reliability, and performance to meet Craftsman’s standards.
Manufacturing And Assembly
The actual building of Craftsman mowers happens in large factories. For example, MTD has plants in the US, Mexico, and China. Husqvarna’s US plants are in South Carolina and Georgia. Briggs & Stratton has engine plants in the Midwest.
- Parts: Frames, decks, wheels, engines, and other parts are stamped, molded, or assembled from raw materials.
- Assembly: Workers and machines assemble the parts into a complete mower.
- Quality Control: Each finished mower is inspected to ensure it meets Craftsman’s requirements.
Branding And Distribution
Once built, the finished mower gets Craftsman logos, stickers, and packaging. It’s then shipped to retailers, such as Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, and online stores.
Types Of Craftsman Lawn Mowers And Who Makes Them
Craftsman mowers come in several types, each often made by a different manufacturer. Here’s a look at the main categories:
Walk-behind (push) Mowers
These are the most common type for home use. Most Craftsman walk-behind mowers are made by MTD, sometimes with engines from Briggs & Stratton or Honda.
- Cutting Widths: 20” to 22”
- Engine Brands: Briggs & Stratton, Honda, Craftsman
- Features: Self-propelled options, bagging, mulching
Riding Lawn Mowers
For larger lawns, Craftsman offers riding mowers and lawn tractors. Most newer models are produced by MTD.
- Cutting Decks: 42”, 46”, 50”
- Engines: Often Briggs & Stratton or Kohler
- Transmission: Manual, automatic, hydrostatic
Zero-turn Mowers
Zero-turn mowers are made for fast, efficient mowing. Craftsman’s zero-turns are also primarily produced by MTD.
- Deck Sizes: 42” to 54”
- Engine Brands: Briggs & Stratton, Kohler
- Features: Dual hydrostatic transmission
Electric And Battery-powered Mowers
With the push for cleaner lawns, Craftsman offers electric and battery-powered mowers. These are typically made by MTD or third-party suppliers in Asia.
- Run Time: 30–60 minutes
- Battery Brands: Craftsman, shared with other Black & Decker tools
- Features: Lightweight, quiet, easy to store
Specialty And Commercial Models
Some Craftsman mowers are built for heavy-duty or semi-commercial use. These are less common and may be produced by different partners, depending on the features needed.
Comparing Craftsman Mower Manufacturing: Past Vs Present
To see how the makers of Craftsman lawn mowers have changed, here’s a simple comparison:
| Time Period | Main Manufacturer(s) | Where Sold |
|---|---|---|
| 1970s-1990s | Roper, AYP, MTD | Sears, Kmart |
| 2000s | Husqvarna, AYP, MTD | Sears, some hardware stores |
| 2017-present | MTD, Briggs & Stratton, some Husqvarna | Lowe’s, Ace, Amazon, others |
This table shows that as Sears declined, Craftsman’s manufacturing partners changed and the places to buy Craftsman mowers expanded.
How To Identify The Real Manufacturer Of Your Craftsman Mower
If you already have a Craftsman mower, you might want to know who made it. Here are some tips:
- Check the Model Number: Craftsman mowers have a model number tag, usually on the deck or under the seat. The first 3 digits often identify the manufacturer.
- 917: Husqvarna/AYP
- 247: MTD
- 944: Sears Canada (often Husqvarna)
- Look for Engine Branding: Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, and Honda engines are common. The engine maker is usually listed on a sticker or stamped on the metal.
- Year of Purchase: Older models (pre-2010) are likely from Husqvarna or AYP. Newer ones (2018+) are almost always MTD.
- Manual and Warranty Info: The owner’s manual often states the manufacturing partner.
It’s a little-known fact that Sears used the same model numbers for decades, even after switching manufacturers. This can confuse buyers looking for replacement parts.
Credit: www.lowes.com
Why Does Manufacturer Matter?
Knowing who makes your Craftsman lawn mower is not just trivia. It can help in several important ways:
- Finding the Right Parts: Different manufacturers use different parts, so getting the right blades, filters, or belts depends on knowing the source.
- Warranty Service: Service centers may ask for manufacturer info to approve repairs.
- Quality Expectations: Some people prefer mowers made in the USA or have loyalty to brands like MTD or Husqvarna.
- Resale Value: Mowers from well-known makers may have higher resale prices.
The Impact Of Stanley Black & Decker’s Ownership
When Stanley Black & Decker bought Craftsman, it promised to revive the brand. The company invested heavily in US manufacturing. For example, it opened new plants in Texas and Connecticut for Craftsman tools. However, most Craftsman mowers are still made by MTD in its existing factories.
Stanley Black & Decker’s strategy is to keep using trusted manufacturers while improving quality control and customer service. This means Craftsman mowers are likely to remain diverse in origin, but with a strong brand promise.
Quality And Performance: Do Makers Affect It?
Many buyers ask, “Is a Craftsman mower made by MTD better than one made by Husqvarna? ” The answer depends on the model, year, and maintenance.
- MTD-made Craftsman mowers are known for sturdy frames and easy-to-find parts. They tend to be affordable and user-friendly.
- Husqvarna-built Craftsman mowers (especially from the 2000s) are praised for their heavy-duty decks and smooth operation.
- Briggs & Stratton engines are valued for reliability and easy starts.
Some non-obvious insights:
- The quality of Craftsman mowers often depends more on the engine brand and deck design than the overall manufacturer.
- Many Craftsman mowers share designs with other brands (like Cub Cadet or Troy-Bilt), but have exclusive features or branding for Craftsman.
Where Are Craftsman Lawn Mowers Made?
Most Craftsman mowers are assembled in the United States, with some parts coming from Mexico or China. For example, MTD has factories in Ohio, Tennessee, and Mississippi. Husqvarna’s US plants are in Orangeburg, South Carolina, and McRae, Georgia.
However, some electric and smaller mowers may be imported from Asia. Parts like engines, wheels, and electronics often come from global suppliers.
Here is a breakdown of Craftsman mower production locations:
| Manufacturer | Main US Locations | Other Countries |
|---|---|---|
| MTD | Ohio, Tennessee, Mississippi | Mexico, China |
| Husqvarna | South Carolina, Georgia | Sweden, China |
| Briggs & Stratton | Wisconsin, Missouri | China, Australia |
Main Retailers That Sell Craftsman Lawn Mowers
After Sears’ decline, Craftsman mowers became available at many more stores. Today, you can buy Craftsman lawn mowers from:
- Lowe’s: The main national retailer since 2018.
- Ace Hardware: Offers a range of models, especially walk-behind mowers.
- Amazon: Sells Craftsman mowers online, with home delivery.
- Walmart: Occasionally carries Craftsman mowers, mostly online.
- Local dealers: Some independent lawn and garden stores stock Craftsman models.
Tip: Prices and model selection can vary widely by retailer, so it’s smart to compare before buying.
How Craftsman Mowers Compare To Other Brands
Craftsman competes with brands like John Deere, Toro, Cub Cadet, and Troy-Bilt. Here is a side-by-side look at how Craftsman stacks up:
| Brand | Main Manufacturer | Price Range | Warranty | Where Made |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Craftsman | MTD, Briggs & Stratton | $200–$3,500 | 2–3 years | USA, Mexico, China |
| John Deere | John Deere | $1,500–$5,000+ | 2–4 years | USA |
| Toro | Toro, MTD | $300–$4,000 | 2–3 years | USA, Mexico |
| Cub Cadet | MTD | $400–$4,500 | 3 years | USA |
This shows that Craftsman sits in the middle price range, with solid warranties and broad availability.
Credit: www.craftsman.com
Common Mistakes When Buying A Craftsman Lawn Mower
Many buyers focus on the brand name but forget other key details. Here are mistakes to avoid:
- Not Checking the Engine Brand: The engine affects performance and repair costs more than the mower brand.
- Ignoring Deck Size: A 42” deck is best for medium yards; bigger decks are harder to maneuver in small spaces.
- Assuming All Craftsman Mowers Are the Same: Manufacturing partners, features, and quality can vary by model and year.
- Missing the Warranty Terms: Some models have limited warranties that require registration.
- Not Considering Electric Options: Battery mowers are quieter and need less maintenance but may have shorter run times.
How To Maintain Your Craftsman Lawn Mower
No matter who made your mower, good maintenance is the key to long life. Here are expert tips:
- Change the oil at least once per season for gas mowers.
- Sharpen the blade every 20–25 hours of mowing.
- Clean the deck after each use to prevent rust.
- Check the air filter regularly.
- Store indoors or use a cover to protect from weather.
A common beginner mistake is to skip cleaning the underside of the mower deck. Grass clippings trap moisture and cause rust, which shortens the mower’s life.
Credit: www.trulandequip.com
The Future Of Craftsman Lawn Mower Manufacturing
With Stanley Black & Decker’s full ownership of MTD, Craftsman mower production is likely to become even more streamlined. Expect more models made in the USA, tighter quality control, and perhaps more innovation in battery-powered options.
Electric mowers will likely grow in importance as battery technology improves and more customers want quiet, eco-friendly tools.
For those who want to follow industry trends, the official Stanley Black & Decker site is a good resource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Makes Craftsman Lawn Mowers Now?
Most Craftsman lawn mowers are now made by MTD Products, which is owned by Stanley Black & Decker. Some models use engines from Briggs & Stratton or Honda. A few older models were produced by Husqvarna.
Are Craftsman Lawn Mowers Made In The Usa?
Many Craftsman mowers are assembled in the USA, mainly at MTD plants in Ohio, Tennessee, and Mississippi. Some parts and a few models come from Mexico or China, especially smaller or electric mowers.
How Can I Find Out Who Made My Craftsman Mower?
Check the model number—the first three digits usually identify the maker. For example, “247” means MTD, while “917” means Husqvarna/AYP. The owner’s manual and engine label also give clues.
Is Craftsman A Good Brand For Lawn Mowers?
Craftsman is known for reliable, affordable mowers with good warranties. Quality depends on the specific model and engine. They are a solid choice for most homeowners, but commercial users may want higher-end brands.
Where Can I Buy Craftsman Lawn Mowers?
You can buy Craftsman mowers at Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, Amazon, and some local hardware stores. Sears no longer sells most Craftsman mowers, but parts are still available online.
Craftsman lawn mowers have a long, complex history, but knowing who makes them can help you buy, maintain, and enjoy your mower for years to come. With continued support from Stanley Black & Decker and its partners, Craftsman is set to remain a top choice for American lawns.