Just curious if those calling them junk have actually used them, or just considering them junk b.c of brand c.o.o., etc.
I only make my statement b/c I have a couple pair of these Kobalt pliers that I got through a gift exchange w/work and for what I've thrown at them...I've been impressed, especially considering how much one might wind up paying for them.
I would never give up my NWS, Knipex, Channellock, etc. but I wouldn't consider them junk b/c they've definitely held up to everything I've used them for over the past two years or so. Cutting edges still sharp on the diagonal cutters, teeth on the slip joint still sharp, etc.