| At $15 how good is the Kobalt 15 in 1 multi-tool? Well it seems to provide quality above its price point but it has issues. The 9.6 oz weight is too heavy for the tool set it provides, it's a very wide 20mm (and yet has no scissors!), and NONE of the tools lock. Also it only carries one tiny phillips and stamped out (not machined quality) driver, its serrated blade is awful. All of its drivers are too polished and radiused which make them slip of the fasterner. They are stubby as well and will provide no reach into tight areas. Also the Kobalt's low quality SS main blade arrives dull and will get that way again quickly, lacking a quality steel. However there a few upsides: the pliers seems excellent and precise and they cut well (shown). Also the can opener/driver, copying Victorinox is good. The polished exterior should resist rust well and it does look high quality. The provided sheath is good, the tool sets have individual springs, and they do engage well into detent. But, as is the current hand tool craze, those silly rubber inserts find their way on to this Kobalt tool as well though. They will stain, grab at cloth, and are not necessary. For a thrasher or maybe a seldom-used preparedness kit MDMT, the Kobalt 15 in 1 may work just fine. It is designed to capture the attention of the general tool buying individual at Lowes Home Improvement Store and give occasional service. However I think most users would be better served steering clear of this offering and saving up ... |
