Lowes has come out with a new Kobalt “Dial to Fit” adjustable ratchet. The Kobalt ratchet features movable jaws and an adjustable dial that allows you to select the exact sizing you need.
To use the ratchet, pull up on the knob, turn the dial to line up with the desired size markings, and release.
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Sizes include inch, from 3/8″ to 3/4″, and metric from 10mm to 19mm. According to the specs sheet, the ratchet is 13-1/2″ long.
Price: $20
Buy Now(via Lowes)
First Thoughts
While the Kobalt adjustable ratchet has an interesting design, there are a couple of things to look out for. First, the short jaws might not give you much reach, in which case you’ll need a conventional ratchet and a deep socket, or a pass-thru ratchet and socket. Second, the longer handle might provide too much leverage for turning smaller fasteners.
I would find the ratchet more compelling as an EDC or just-in-case tool kit if it were available as a pair of small and large sizes.
On the bright side, it seems to me that the Kobalt adjustable “dial to fit” ratchet one-ups the Stanley and Dewalt TwinTec adjustable wrench. The Stanley/Dewalt version had a dogbone style form factor, which limited how much leverage could be applied from the tool. Additionally, the Kobalt has size markings so you can adjust the tool without trial and error, except for when you don’t know the size of fastener you’re working with.
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Although a little goofy looking as an adjustable ratchet or wrench, I’ve seen worse in recent years.
Michael Quinlan
This looks like it might be good to have in a “grab and go” tool bag, meant to meet most (but not all) similar needs. It may not be as good as a full socket set, but it might be better than a trip back to the truck for the “right” tool.
Jerry
It might be useful as a grab and go tool, when you are unsure what sizes you might need, but I always wonder just how securely these types of wrenches will hold a bolt head?
Allen
They just will not let the “one size fits all” idea die the death it deserves.
firefly
Out of all the on side fit all adjustable ratcheting wrench gimmick this one seem to be the most practical so far. Have to see it in person to make my judgement but it does seem pretty decent.
howard
Wait till you try to use one!!
Micah
Such a piece of crap. If you’re trying to loosen a bolt head that is very tight, get ready for some slippage and bloody knuckles.
howard
Don’t waste your money! By the time you get the thing adjusted, you could have found the right socket 3 times. It contacts the nut in only 2 places, so hardly any torque can be applied. The head is too large to fit in most work spaces, and you can’t use an extender with it. If you can’t find a hammer, you might get some use out of this piece of crap!