In November Kobalt will introduce their Universal Socket line. The Universal sockets are developed to eliminate the need for unique specialty sockets and wrenches. As infomercials say, but wait, that’s not all. Kobalt will also be introducing their redesigned Xtreme socket set.
Each product will be available in 1/4” and 3/8” and is engineered to exceed ANSI specifications. Below are the two sets we had a chance to play with and try.
Kobalt Universal 19-piece Socket Set (#737615)
- Works with six different fastener types, including: 6-point, 12-point, spline, star, square and most rounded fasteners
- Eliminates the need for unique
- Features both Standard (SAE) and Metric (MM)
- Retail price: $39.98
Kobalt Xtreme Access 22-piece Socket Set (#747438)
- Pass-thru capability eliminates the need for deep-well sockets
- 72-tooth gear ratchet provides superior control
- Retail price: $39.98
Kobalt makes some nice socket and wrench sets, good kit to have in your tool box.
These sockets look very similar to the craftsman universal design. They also brought the fearless ratchet back.
Did you guys do any research at all on the new Kobalt Xtreme Access sockets before recommending that people purchase the 22-piece set? There are at least 6 different sets released simultaneously, and that 22-piece one was one of the most basic, and it doesn’t even include a case!
I’m talking specifically about the new 6-point only sets (not the last-gen spline drive or the even older style with a completely different ratchet). A couple of those spline drive sets could easily compete with the newer sets, especially since you get THREE sizes of ratchets and all the adapters you could ever want. These new sets are 3/8″ drive only (1/4″ with adapter, which kills its usefulness).
Furthermore, this 22-piece set was EITHER OR metric or “SAE”. $40 x 2 for both is NOT a good value, especially comparatively. Even $20 x 2 for both isn’t a good deal when compared to the larger sets such as the 47-piece set with a hard case (or the now clearanced 49-piece set that was the most complete yet.)
I know ya’ll do a lot of reviews and are just trying to show people some stuff, but I’d appreciate more thorough comparisons (to other models, other brands, other etc.) Constructive criticism is OK right? 😉
Of course we love constructive criticism. :}