What's the consensus on Kobalt tools?

[stovebolt6]

Specifically the Taiwan stuff. I noticed that I have quite a few Kobalt pieces in my box, and, frankly, I really like them. I'm not a pro, just dyi'er, but if I ever need something Lowes always seems to come through. My Lowes has a huge selection, they have everything- several ratchet styles in all drive sizes, long pattern combo wrenches, all kinds of ratchet adapters/extensions, flex head ratcheting wrenches, sockets/impacts, etc etc. The finish seems excellent and I have never had an issue with peeling or chipping chrome. Overall I would say that they are tied with Gearwrench for best import tools. I have pretty much written off the Mastercraft stuff from CanTire and the Craftsman stuff at my Sears is just dismal. Kobalt just feels like quality stuff to me.

I realize it is a bit pricey for non USA, but the lifetime warranty is there. What are your thoughts?

 

[ishiboo]

I have a lot of Kobalt and have always been satisfied. Don't like the fit/finish on the Chinese stuff.

You can find additional pieces in various other brands which are the same OEM or quite similar, ProGrade, Titan, some HF stuff, etc.

The Kobalt sets are pricey until they go on the big sales, then they can be really good deals.

 

[gagreen]

junk in general anymore

 

[scottbob]

I've bought several when they went on sale. They're great truck tools and given the good prices when they're on sale I've got zero complaints. I hear that the warranty is hassle free but I've yet to break one.


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[Brownsfan]

All the Taiwan made Kobalt stuff I have has been great. No issues at all. Sockets are good and ratchets are better than anything sears offers(besides premium). Wrenches are very nice for the money. Pliers are pure garbage. Screwdrivers I have never used so I cant say good or bad

 

[Trey T]

I own a few Kobalt mechanic tools but have anyone use the tools and broke it?

 

[shopboy13]

I own a few Kobalt mechanic tools but have anyone use the tools and broke it?

We've broke a few at work. Just like the Sears warranty except the people at the registers are idiots so you get the replacement for yourself off the shelf.


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[jim1987]

I wouldn't say tied for first with gear wrench. I like Carlyle better then both of them. Don't get me I have nothing against kobalt tools. But the prices are just awful IMO. Especially the ratchet wrenches. And I (IMO) don't like there ratchet wrenches where the selector goes side to side. Not enough teeth to feel smooth.

But, overall, when stuff can be had cheap, I like them. I love my 12 point deep metric 3/8 socket set I got from them for $12. The chrome is very nice and quality is right up there.

 

[stovebolt6]

All the Taiwan made Kobalt stuff I have has been great. No issues at all. Sockets are good and ratchets are better than anything sears offers(besides premium). Wrenches are very nice for the money. Pliers are pure garbage. Screwdrivers I have never used so I cant say good or bad

I should agree that the pliers aren't great, I have Channellock for those tools. I guess I'm referring specifically to the hardline stuff.

 

[zkling]

Their main mechanics tools, Taiwan COO, are good for the price and availability especially on sale. I'd avoid their pliers, screwdrivers and other common China made items unless you find a great deal and just need a cheap beater set. Like most companies they have their gem items.

We've broke a few at work. Just like the Sears warranty except the people at the registers are idiots so you get the replacement for yourself off the shelf.

So it IS just like sears.

 

[Wamsutta]

Their sockets are OK, but wouldn't recommend anything else.

 

[lightning02]

i have some of there Taiwan made ratchets and they work perfect. use them all the time. i wouldnt buy nothing made in China from them tho.

 

[bcradio]

There's no consensus on them.

Some people like them ok and others don't. I think some of their tools are ok and some of them are not. Their sockets are terrible, but their ratchets are decent.

Buy some, try some, and let us know your opinion.

 

[AndrewV]

There a slightly lesser quality gearwrench. And made by gearwrench at that. So that says something about it. I personaly dont care for the ratcheting wrenches, just buy gearwrenches, i like the ratchets. The sockets are so so, you can do better. I like the files, there holding up good, 3 years in.

 

[mtesh73]

i have a bunch of kobalt (some USA, some taiwan). as a matter of fact i was thinking of starting this very same thread today when i picked up a 1/2" ratchet and 5/8" socket (both taiwan). far nicer fit and finish than my craftsman sets, the ratchet had a very solid heft to it and really nice chrome finish. it worked very smoothly, in both loosen and tighten function.

i have to say i am extremely satisfied with the kobalt ratchets, sockets and wrenches. never busted an item, so cant speak from experience on the warranty.

the pliers are mediocre at best, funky handles, better off with channellock like stovebolt6 stated.

 

[hallboyone]

Honestly, as much as I would like more expensive, nicer tools, Kobalt has never let me down. I have been satisfied with everything they offer except their pliers.

 

[rtole]

I have a linesman pliers and a side cutter. I bought them for loaners/abusers. I wrecked the side cutter(doing way more than one should ask of that tool) walked in, they had me pick out a new one......no hassle. I have beat on them. No complaints for the price.

 

[dankicksass]

Kobalt started out as a good value USA tool line, then restructured to a decent value mixed line with plenty of singles in more towns than Sears Craftsman as Lowes expanded, and has finally degraded into an expensive import line of questionable quality. The latest line is absolute junk for the price. But I think Gearwrench is junk too, and Craftsman too, and I strongly recommend Stanley brands for casual wrenchers.

 

[BFBOB]

I really like Kobalt nail hammers. I have 4 or 5 of the 16 oz curved claw ones. They just feel good in my hand - the right size and shape, slightly bigger diameter than most. Of course, YHMV (your hand may vary)

The head came a bit loose on one after a couple of years of fairly strenuous use - took it back and it was replaced free.

 

[nicksnothereman]

Specifically the Taiwan stuff. I noticed that I have quite a few Kobalt pieces in my box, and, frankly, I really like them. I'm not a pro, just dyi'er, but if I ever need something Lowes always seems to come through. My Lowes has a huge selection, they have everything- several ratchet styles in all drive sizes, long pattern combo wrenches, all kinds of ratchet adapters/extensions, flex head ratcheting wrenches, sockets/impacts, etc etc. The finish seems excellent and I have never had an issue with peeling or chipping chrome. Overall I would say that they are tied with Gearwrench for best import tools. I have pretty much written off the Mastercraft stuff from CanTire and the Craftsman stuff at my Sears is just dismal. Kobalt just feels like quality stuff to me.

I realize it is a bit pricey for non USA, but the lifetime warranty is there. What are your thoughts?

The awesomest **** tools to have ever existed.

Nah, they're not **** not at all. Better than gearwrench at this point (at least what I have access to) in my opinion. If I ever need an emergency tool, if kobalt makes it that's what I'll buy. I've had very good luck with their stuff but at the same time I don't beat on tools like some people do. I rarely pay "white sticker" cost on kobalt stuff though.

 

[1950mercury]

On par with the Taiwan harbor frieght tools for more money. They get the job done.

 

[PugetDude]

There isn't a consensus here on anything....

 

[jcfields]

.

 

[ihateminimumwage]

...But I think Gearwrench is junk too, and Craftsman too, and I strongly recommend Stanley brands for casual wrenchers.

What all GW have you used that is junk? They have stepped up their quality ten fold in recent years. Sockets (chrome & impact), ratchets, wrenches, misc tools (KD rebrands) are all top notch. I could understand if your judgement was based off of the China **** homeowner line that Sears sells, but everything I've used in recent years is excellent and holds up to daily professional use.

As far as the Taiwan Kobalt line, love the slim profile ratchets that I traded out my junk Danaher USA era Kobalts for, sockets are decent for the sale price (although I really don't use 1/2" drive metric deeps much). Universal chrome sockets have been nothing but great, socket trays are the best thing on the market for the cost. Have a few other misc tools, so far so good.

 

[dankicksass]

What all GW have you used that is junk?

Gearwrench brand is low quality high margin import junk. Their chrome is bad, metal is soft, and the tools don't hold up. I'm a pro user, I keep Gearwrench in my box, but I'm not going to blow smoke up anyone's *** and say it's a top quality product. Stanley makes a far better quality product at a better price point for the homeowner.

Good Gearwrench tools:
Ratcheting wrenches box end only. Open end is junk.
Magnetic drain plug service kit.
Serpentine belt tool.
Magnetic spark plug sockets with built in swivel extension. These used to be KD.
Click torque wrench, if you like them.
7 piece pick set.
Articulated extended reach needle nose pliers. Buy them from Crescent if you want them though.
Soft grip ratchets.
Interchangeable shank ratcheting screwdrivers.

Can't think of anything else in their whole line that's decent, unique or a good value. A lot of Gearwrench is gimmicky, poorly made or both. Their long pattern non-ratcheting wrenches are exceptionally bad. Their socket drive reducer adapters are made of incredibly weak metal. Their customer service can't help you replace a broken tool by number if it only came in a kit. I could go on but I've railed on Gearwrench a lot lately.

 

[Brownsfan]

Careful now. The gearwrench and harbor freight fans are just as passionate as the snap on only guys. My argument with HF is... If it is as good as people say then why do we need a pass/fail thread? Oh and don't fail something in there. 10 people will come out and tell you that you are crazy. Even craftsman does not have or need a pass/fail thread. I have ratcheting wrenches and the $29.99 ratcheting screwdriver set from sears. I have broken a few of the wrenches. Used them to break loose a bolt. My fault.

 

[jim1987]

Their long pattern non-ratcheting wrenches are exceptionally bad.

Could you please expand on this statement please and your experience as to why you think this please?

 

[Mlr2006]

I haven't ever had a single issue with Gearwrench or Kobalt (or Husky or Stanley for that matter). I have seen a handful of Harbor Freight tools break.

Most of my Kobalt tools were bought on steep discounts from Lowe's and have worked great especially for their price. I use my Kobalt pliers about as much as I use my Channellocks, but I am not too particular about pliers. Also, at around $1 to $2 for each plier, i am not going to complain about quality or price.

All of my gearwrench stuff was bought using codes for Advance Auto. So again, the prices were more than reasonable and the products have worked great. No issues at all with any of their ratchets, wrenches, and sockets.

At the end of the day, the main advantage of the big box stores is that you can go and look at the products yourself and if you are a savvy shopper you can get great deals on many of the items. They also have easy return policies if you do not like the products.

 

[dankicksass]

Could you please expand on this statement please and your experience as to why you think this please?

The quality control on the box end offset bend is bad, where they're supposed to be 15deg I've seen inconsistencies between 5deg and 30deg in the same kit. It's a documented issue and Gearwrench customer service wouldn't do anything about it a few years ago. I have not seen this issue in other Gearwrench products. The wrenches are too soft and the open end spreads easily, just like their ratcheting wrenches, making them useless for breaking loose tie rods etc. Bad chrome like the rest of the Gearwrench line. They are not the good deal Tooltopia would have you believe.

 

[bcradio]

The quality control on the box end offset bend is bad, where they're supposed to be 15deg I've seen inconsistencies between 5deg and 30deg in the same kit. It's a documented issue and Gearwrench customer service wouldn't do anything about it a few years ago. I have not seen this issue in other Gearwrench products. The wrenches are too soft and the open end spreads easily, just like their ratcheting wrenches, making them useless for breaking loose tie rods etc. Bad chrome like the rest of the Gearwrench line. They are not the good deal Tooltopia would have you believe.

Sounds like you have been getting factory seconds on your Gearwrench purchases. I would look closer at what venue you choose to buy these tools at. My experience with them has been they are top notch when you buy their 'nice' tools. By this I mean not the cheapo on sale Chinese sears versions where you get 20 ratcheting wrenches for $30 (and other similar).

As for the HF pass/fail stuff, I don't know of anyone that thinks all Harbor Freight items/tools are top notch amazing. Most people just realize that a lot of their stuff is good for the money. There is no need to spend a hundred bucks on a tool that will be used twice a year when a fifteen dollar version at HF will do just fine.

 

[woody 73]

Many years ago...They were top notch, I have been using their early tools 24/7 without any problems.

Today I am not so sure about some of their quality tools, the ones coming from Taiwan are somewhat better then there Main land Chinese tools. Seems that here of lately lowes kobalt quality is slipping from years ago.

Just my two cents for what it is worth.

 

[Hpozzuoli]

I have some 1/2 impact extensions I bought when in a dire need. One twisted on my mg725 and the other is still alive. Aside from that I only have the multi row socket trays. Just bought another last nite. I really like them and you can use husky and HF clips on them.

 

[dankicksass]

Sounds like you have been getting factory seconds on your Gearwrench purchases. I would look closer at what venue you choose to buy these tools at.

I doubt that very much. I've been dissatisfied by Gearwrench products from a wide range of retailers. Only recently I've chosen to share that. It doesn't matter to me if my opinion is unpopular. Gearwrench doesn't get my dollar anymore. Neither does Kobalt or Craftsman. They just don't meet my standards.

 

[bcradio]

I doubt that very much. I've been dissatisfied by Gearwrench products from a wide range of retailers. Only recently I've chosen to share that. It doesn't matter to me if my opinion is unpopular. Gearwrench doesn't get my dollar anymore. Neither does Kobalt or Craftsman. They just don't meet my standards.

Completely understandable... I feel the same way on certain things as well.

 

[Hyster Gareth]

When kobalt was introduced it was manufactured by JH Williams in the USA and was excellent value and a nice comprehensive tool line. It has now cheapened and the quality has suffered which is a shame.

Call me a cynic but I think it's a classic case of bait and switch!

 

[shopboy13]

Here are said broken sockets. When the idiots use chrome on the impact this is expected though. Any brand will break under that load. Dad thinks impact sockets are over rated.


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[ihateminimumwage]

Here are said broken sockets. When the idiots use chrome on the impact this is expected though. Any brand will break under that load. Dad thinks impact sockets are over rated.

That will happen.
Cracked a CM USA chrome socket on my 3/8" gun getting a u-joint strap off. Took less than a minute to break it. Bought a set of 12pt Snappy metric impact swivels on ebay after that.

 

[shopboy13]

That will happen.

Cracked a CM USA chrome socket on my 3/8" gun getting a u-joint strap off. Took less than a minute to break it. Bought a set of 12pt Snappy metric impact swivels on ebay after that.

They've broke snap on chrome sockets. I can't convince him to buy impact sockets for the life if me.


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[Arps]

Dad thinks impact sockets are over rated.

fathers day is just around the corner

 

[shopboy13]

fathers day is just around the corner

Ya but seeing as I am 16 I think he should buy them for me


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