Kobalt 1-inch/12-point socket, 1/2-inch drive Review

When it comes to tools, I have long been on the metric system. That's why I was surprised a couple weeks ago when none of the sockets I had would fit a certain part on my car. A 24mm socket was too small and a 27mm socket was too big. Obviously I needed a 25 or 26mm socket, or so I thought. Then it slowly dawned on me that one inch equals 25.4mm, so maybe I needed a 1-inch socket. Bingo!

I looked around and got a Kobalt socket from Lowes, which I believe is the exclusive distributor of Kobalt tools (much like Sears was the exclusive distributor of Craftsman tools until it merged with Kmart). The socket cost $5 at Lowes.

What it is

This Kobalt 1-inch socket is a well-constructed tool, made from sturdy steel and heavily chromed. The inside of the socket is a 12-point design, which makes it easier to manipulate if you have a limited space to turn the socket. (The alternative is a six-point socket, which has it's advantages but is more difficult to manipulate in a tight spot.) This Kobalt socket is 1/2-inch drive. See the photo of the display tag (to the right) for full information about this Kobalt socket. This socket is intended to be used with a standard 1/2-inch ratchet and is not intended for power tools such as pneumatic drivers.

This Kobalt socket is made in the USA and it has a unlimited guarantee -- if it ever breaks, I can get a free replacement.

Using it

I've only used it a couple times but this is a nice quality tool. It feels solid and the metal looks and feels like good tool steel. My 1/2-inch drive ratchet fits the Kobalt socket well and the socket fits onto 1-inch nuts with just the right feel. There is a lot of touch associated with mechanical work and this Kobalt 1-inch socket has the touch of a good quality tool. I would say it is equivalent to a Craftsman socket but probably a class below Snap-On. I have no problem having this Kobalt 1-inch socket in my toolbox.

Summary

The Kobalt 1-inch/12-point 1/2-inch drive socket is a good quality tool at a fair price. I've never had any Kobalt hand tools before but, based on the quality of this socket, will consider the company for my future tool needs. I recommend the Kobalt 1-inch/12-point 1/2-inch drive socket.