Lowe’s Kobalt Tool brand has been showing off a redesigned tool set with a new case they describe as being tougher than ever.
At the time of this posting, you can only get this tool box included with a Kobalt mechanics tool set. There’s little chance of a standalone version, but if it proves to be popular we might see similar cases bundled with other Kobalt mechanics tool sets.
Lowe’s new 243pc Kobalt tool set that features their “popular 227pc” assortment plus a 16pc bonus tool set.
The Kobalt 243pc mechanics tool set features 3 ratchets, 115 6pt and 12pt sockets, 2 sparkplug sockets, 4 extensions, 30 wrenches, 45 hex keys, and 44 other tools (mainly insert bits).
As with other mechanic tool sets of this nature and price point, the Kobalt set features plastic construction, a top lid compartment, and 3 drawers.
The tool box features a large carry handle, which could be a welcome departure from the tiny top handles built into most products of this type.
But, there’s also a downside – no side handles.
The top lid locks into place when the handle is raised, and unlocks when the handle is lowered.
Combination wrenches, socket extensions, and hex keys are stored in the top lid.
The 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ ratchets are stored in the removable top compartment tray, along with 2 driver handles, mini wrenches, nutdriver insert bits, and bit ratchet.
Kobalt says the kit comes with PRO90 (90-tooth) ratchets.
The set features a mix of 6pt and 12pt sockets in 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ drive sizes.
Here’s a breakdown of what you get, from the components list:
- Drive Tools
- (5) 1/4″ drive ratchets and drive tools
- (3) 3/8″ drive ratchets and drive tools
- (2) 1/2″ drive ratchets and drive tools
- 1/4″ SAE Sockets
- (11) 1/4″ drive 6pt SAE sockets
- (8) 1/4″ drive 12pt SAE sockets
- (9) 1/4″ drive 6pt SAE deep sockets
- 1/4″ Metric Sockets
- (12) 1/4″ drive 6pc metric sockets
- (10) 1/4″ drive 6pt metric deep sockets
- 3/8″ SAE Sockets
- (8) 3/8″ drive 6pt SAE sockets
- (10) 3/8″ drive 12pt SAE sockets
- (6) 3/8″ drive 12pt SAE deep sockets
- (2) 3/8″ drive SAE sparkplug sockets
- 3/8″ Metric Sockets
- (7) 3/8″ drive 6pt metric sockets
- (11) 3/8″ drive 12pt metric sockets
- (8) 3/8″ drive 12pt metric deep sockets
- 1/2″ Sockets
- (8) 1/2″ drive 12pt SAE sockets
- (7) 1/2″ drive 12pt metric sockets
- Wrenches
- (5) 12pt SAE combination wrenches
- (5) 12pt metric combination wrenches
- (10) 6 and 12pt SAE mini combo wrenches
- (10) 6 and 12pt metric mini combo wrenches
- Hex Keys
- (20) SAE hex key set
- (20) metric hex key set
- Screwdriver and Insert Bits
- (12) nutdriver bit set
- (5) mini L-wrench Torx with holder
- (29) 1/4″ hex screwdriver insert bits
The bottom drawer is empty for users to fill as they please.
Mechanics tool sets like this one can be a good starting point for beginners, or as a portable kit for better-equipped tool users.
Tool sets in the $100-$200 price range often come with 2-3 drawer plastic tool cases, nearly all of which are compromised in some manner.
Will this tool case eliminate all manners of user frustrations? Probably not, but that large top handle and handle-based lid lock definitely seem like well-thought-out upgrades, although you do lose side handles.
As mentioned, it doesn’t look like the case is or will be available separately, which is unfortunately the norm.
Price: $149
Model 81761
Item No. 3730058
Lowe’s aimed to show the new tool case’s superiority in a Kobalt Tools social media post:
