Kobalt’s new Crossform wrenches are ergonomic “twisted” style wrenches that bear a strong resemblance to Gearwrench’s X-Beam and Craftsman’s CrossForce designs. Compared to standard wrenches, these types offer wider, more comfortable areas to apply pressure with your palms.
The downside is that these wrenches tend to be a little larger and bulkier than conventional wrenches. Still, we can overlook a little extra bulk means an easier time tightening and breaking loose fasteners.
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The SAE set includes 5/16″, 3/8″, 7/16″, 1/2″, 9/16″, 5/8″, 11/16″, and 3/4″ wrench sizes, and the metric set includes 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, 13mm, 14mm, 15mm, 17mm, and 18mm wrench sizes. Both 8-wrench sets are now priced at $25 each, but they were previously priced at $80.
PM
I saw this deal earlier this week at Lowes, and thought about getting both the metric and SAE set to build my go-to wrench set. Does anyone know if Lowes offers (or will offer) other sizes … like 9 mm?
Harry
I broke down in a moment of weakness and got them after playing with a wrench on a demo block Lowes had on display. They’re really not like a cross force wrench though. They’re well balanced and different. The boxed end is more like a partial socket then a boxed end bent at 15 degrees on a normal combination wrench. Depending on the wrench size, there’s about 3/16 of an inch from the edge of the boxed end to the bottom edge of the beam. The beam of the wrench curves slightly beneath the open end ala those new Facom wrenches. It makes for a natural place for thumb or fingers. The jaws of the open end are tapered for improved access I guess. They are not long wrenches. the 13 mm wrench measures 6 7/8 inches overall. The chrome appears smooth and shiny. Next time you’re in Lowes, play with the one on display. They won’t make you give up you existing wrenches but, you’ll say to yourself, those are different. I think I can use them here or there.
Colin
I bought a set cause they looked pretty useful. Definately deeper than normal wrenchs, but i’m not liking the skips. They’re missing the 9,11,16. I also wish they came with a 19mm. They may go back, but i’m not sure yet.
Jonathan
I do love these crossform wrenches – I do have to agree with colin and wish that they came with 19, 16, and 11.
Even better is that they have dropped $10 more – now only$14.98 (online price – you have to order and pick up in the store for this price )
Jeff
19= 3/4, 16~5/8, 11=9/16. I’m just happy they include 18mm.
I bang a lot on the other end of my wrenches; using these I strike the “sharp” part of the open end instead of the dull side.
Glad I didn’t pay much, they won’t see much use.