Kobalt Power Tools

By Robert Robillard on Tool News

Kobalt Power Tools Media Event 2011:   What’s new in tools at Lowe’s

Last night I attended the Kobalt power tool launch event in NYC.

For those of you who are not familiar with Kobalt, they got their start in 1998 as a mechanics tool line. The brand has since extended to corded and cordless power tools and hand tools.  The tools are sold exclusively at Lowe’s

The biggest attraction to Kobalt is their price point.   There is no doubt that a Do-It-Yourselfer can get into an 18 volt Lithium Ion cordless tool kit for an affordable price of $269.00.

Kobalt’s product design team was top notch and I enjoyed my stay with them.  They have obviously spent some time and effort researching  and speaking to end-users to come up with this line.

While at the event I had my favorites, here is a brief summary:

I liked all of the mechanic tools, unfortunately I did not get a chance to try out any of the mechanic air tools.

53″ Stainless Steel Tool Chest:

The 16-Drawer 53″ Stainless Steel Tool Chest was impressive.   My first impression is that this tool storage box is well made.   Maybe I’ll test one out and put it through the rigors of shop life!

Some of the nice features are:

  • Integrated 1.6 cu ft refrigerator
  • Integrated flush mount hanging hooks
  • Custom PVC cover included
  • Customized Kobalt blue drawer liners included – nice touch!
  • Pioneer AM/FM, CD and MP3 player.

Kobalt 129pc Mechanics Tool Set:

The 129pc Mechanics Tool Set was also a nice kit.  This chrome vanadium steel set comes with 72 teeth ratchets that have a blue and red color coded strip that designates metric and SAE.  My only issue with this set is the sizes are laser etched and were a bit difficult to see.  Not a deal breaker though!

Kobalt 18 Volt Lithium‐ion/NiCd Charger:

I spoke to Stephen Lafonte, International Merchandising Manager about the new dual charger.

The Kobalt lithium -on cordless power tools come with a smart charger.  The best feature of this charger is it is compatible with lithium-ion and NiCd batteries.  A built in LCD display indicates the battery charge and the time left for charging.  Plus a multi-colored display indicates full charge status that is easily seen from across the room    The charger has a 20 min / 30 min charge time.

Kobalt 12-Amp Orbital Reciprocating Saw:

At $94.00 this 12-Amp Orbital Reciprocating Saw is the perfect solution for the do-it-yourselfer.

The 12-amp motor runs at 0-2800 SPM and has a 1-1/8”blade stroke length.

A tool-less blade change lever is standard and a nice touch but the BEST feature is the 360-degree rotating head.  Yes the head rotates 360 degrees to accommodate the user in different cutting applications and situations.  And did I mention it’s only  $94.00!

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About the author

Robert Robillard

Carpenter / Remodeler / Editor

Rob Robillard is “The Concord Carpenter” Rob is a builder, general contractor, carpenter, woodworker, and editor of Concord Carpenter and ToolBoxBuzz As a General Contractor and carpenter, Rob owns and operates Concord Carpenter LLC. A full-service remodeling and construction company. Rob is a recognized leader in home building best practices and a source for how-to information for building professionals. On this website, Rob covers all aspects of home construction, building science, home improvement, woodworking, remodeling, and some of the best product and tool reviews. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review series - Concord Carpenter Videos where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. Rob approaches remodeling and building construction with a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help and educate building professionals as well as DIYers on best practices in the construction and remodeling industry. He's a strong advocate for "raising the bar" in the construction trades and promoting the trades to youth. #BeAMentor #Green2Great Craftsmanship, quality, and pride guide his journey on this channel The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!" : Read more about Rob

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