The 2025 Craftsman Select 22" is a compact, single-stage snow blower designed for homeowners with small driveways or walkways facing light to moderate snowfall. Priced between $500 and $700, this gas-powered machine is lightweight and user-friendly, offering great value for those seeking simplicity and efficiency in snow clearing.
Key Features
- 179cc OHV Engine: Provides sufficient power for clearing light to moderate snow on small driveways or sidewalks.
- 22-Inch Clearing Width: Clears a 22” path, perfect for narrow walkways or small driveways, with a 13” intake height for lighter snow accumulations.
- 20-Foot Throw Distance: Effectively tosses snow up to 20 feet, suitable for small-scale snow removal.
- 9-Inch Rubber Auger: Efficiently clears light snow and is gentler on surfaces like wooden decks or patios.
- Lightweight Design: At just 90 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver and store, ideal for users with limited strength or space.
- Manual EZ Chute Control (180°): Allows simple adjustments to snow direction, though it requires manual operation.
- Auger-Assist Drive: Propels the unit forward as the auger engages, reducing physical effort during operation.
- Pull Start: Reliable starting mechanism, though it lacks an electric start option for added convenience.
- 2-Year Limited Warranty: Offers assurance of durability for its price range.
Performance
The 2025 Craftsman Select 22" is tailored for light snowfalls (up to 8–12 inches) on small driveways, sidewalks, or patios. Its 179cc OHV engine delivers adequate power for fluffy or powdery snow, though it may struggle with wet or compacted snow compared to two-stage models. The 9-inch rubber auger is effective for light snow and is less likely to damage delicate surfaces, making it a good choice for clearing decks or paved walkways.
The auger-assist drive simplifies operation by pulling the machine forward as it clears snow, reducing user fatigue. However, the manual EZ chute control requires stopping to adjust the snow direction, which can slow down the clearing process compared to models with remote chute controls. At 90 pounds, the Craftsman Select 22" is exceptionally lightweight, making it easy to handle and store, especially for users with limited physical strength or storage space.
The 0.5-gallon fuel tank supports short clearing sessions, though its runtime isn’t specified, so users should expect to refuel during extended use. The lack of an electric start may be a minor inconvenience in very cold conditions, but the pull start is reliable for most users.
Pros
- Affordable Price: At $500–$700, it’s a budget-friendly option for single-stage snow clearing.
- Lightweight and Compact: Easy to maneuver and store, ideal for small spaces or users with limited strength.
- Gentle on Surfaces: The rubber auger is safe for delicate surfaces like decks or patios.
- Simple Operation: Auger-assist drive and EZ chute control make it user-friendly for beginners.
Cons
- Limited Power: Struggles with wet or heavy snow compared to two-stage models like the Columbia CM 28".
- Manual Chute Adjustment: Lacks the convenience of remote chute control found in higher-end models.
- No Electric Start: Pull start may be challenging for some users in very cold conditions.
- Short Throw Distance: The 20-foot throw distance is less impressive than two-stage models, potentially requiring re-clearing in windy conditions.
Who It’s For
The 2025 Craftsman Select 22" is perfect for homeowners in regions with light to moderate snowfall (up to 12 inches) who need an affordable, lightweight snow blower for small driveways, walkways, or patios. Its compact design and rubber auger make it ideal for those with limited storage or delicate surfaces. For heavier snow or larger properties, a two-stage model like the Ariens Classic 24 or Columbia CM 28" would be more suitable.
Comparison to Alternatives
Compared to the Snow Joe SJ623E ($250–$300), the Craftsman Select 22" is pricier but offers a more powerful 179cc engine and a wider 22-inch clearing path versus Snow Joe’s 18-inch width. The Ariens Classic 24 ($800–$1,000) provides two-stage power and a longer throw distance but is heavier and more expensive. The Toro Power Clear 721 E ($650–$800) includes an electric start and similar clearing width but lacks the Craftsman’s lightweight design.
Verdict
The 2025 Craftsman Select 22" is an excellent choice for budget-conscious homeowners seeking a lightweight, easy-to-use snow blower for light snow conditions. Its compact design, rubber auger, and auger-assist drive make it ideal for small spaces and delicate surfaces. While it lacks the power and features of two-stage models, its affordability and simplicity make it a great value for small-scale snow clearing.
Rating: 4.0/5
Compact, affordable, and easy to handle, the Craftsman Select 22" is a top pick for light snow removal on small properties.