Kobalt’s new combination adjustable wrench and utility knife multi-tool is one of those tools that gets filed under the hmm… maybe… category. It looks a little gimmicky, but could be useful.
Craftsman and Crescent both make similar folding adjustable ratcheting clench wrenches, and the design works well for certain applications.
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The wrench end will fit smaller fasteners, and the utility knife accepts smaller sized blades. For $10, this might be a worthy just-in-case addition to your mobile tool bag.
I don’t like to dismiss any tool without using it, but it seems to me that a separate adjustable wrench and utility knife might work better for most users.
Buy Now(via Lowes)
If anyone has tried this, please let us know how you like it!
mikeh
Seems to be an odd combination – i can’t remember the last time i was tightening a nut and said “man i wish i had my knife in my hand right now”. I have the Craftsman foldable version (no knife) and it’s pretty handy for simple stuff…works well on some plumbing fasteners
jesse
Or vice versa – cutting something and wishing you had an adjustable wrench to turn a fastener. Not a very practical tool.
What IS interesting is that apparently Lowe’s is buying tools again from Apex Tool Group.
phi2039
There’s no patent, so it’s likely a knockoff – not from Apex.
Yadda
Looks like a great way to loosen bolts while slitting your wrist.
Yadda
And yet…… I still kind of want one.
Andrew
Looks like someone at Kobalt has been watching Scrubs on Netflix.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x22yNaLdiGA&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Jim
I thought it was a reversible bottle opener and steak knife 😉
Jerry
My thought is that it is just a matter of time before someone cuts themselves while using the wrench. If you notice, the sharp side of the blade, is on the side you would apply pressure to, when using the wrench.
That aside, I can’t think of when I use a knife and wrench for the same job. Something like a knife and pliers, or even knife and screwdriver, or wrench and knife or wrench and screwdriver would seem better companions.
Stuart
Both tools pivot in for carrying. I can’t think of a good reason why anyone would open the wrench and knife at the same time. That Kobalt decided this was the best way to show the tool’s features is confusing, but in practice I think there is minimal risk of potential safety issues.
Norm
I actually have one of these. I work in the maintenance department (I’m the electrician) and I just tossed it in my mini pouch (the idea here is hopefully I can fix any little problem with these tools). Since it’s “2” tools (actually more since the wrench range is 1/4″-7/16″ (6mm-11mm)) that is why replaced the knife I did have.
It’s ok for what it is, and it was cheap enough, but I have two issues with it:
#1 – The mini blade, as I don’t have any other tool with them in it, I’d hate to buy more just for it. I wish it were a fixed blade.
#2 – I have the craftsman 2 piece set of the wrench too [ http://www.sears.com/craftsman-2-pack-ratcheting-clench-wrench/p-00930879000P ]. Since there is two there is more range, but also they lock in various intervals. If whatever you may be working on, might not have the most easiest of access (I deal with this all the time), it helps.
I just noticed the blue on mine is getting nicked off rather easily as well.