Kobalt's 1st Mid-Torque Impact Wrench Aims to Take On Milwaukee, Makita & More

Our lifetime of updated tool rankings: torquetestchannel.etsy.com
The Milwaukee @ $174: amzn.to/3Sxt7JI Kobalt (not affiliate): low.es/3rc81Vu
This past week Kobalt released the KIW 4024A-03 Mid-Torque Impact Wrench KIT at Lowes, so we stopped by to buy one for ourselves. The KOBALT KIW 124B-03 Mid-Torque included in this set has some spicy numbers and even spicier fan fare backing in the the last week in video's we've seen.
Straight up, we never set out to test a tool with the purpose in mind to "upset" one brand or compare vs another channel's testing, the tools just make what they make for us. After double checking several known quantities like this Milwaukee 2962 mid torque, this is what it made for us. And we think that's very good vs its specs, especially for the price and this being non-XTR.
~Links may include affiliate links, which we earn some % from sales on~
As always, Torque who started TTC is working in product development for Astro Tools. TTC is not the only testing out there, always consider multiple sources when looking at a tool!

[@RetiredEE]

Everything stops when a TT vid drops

[@BrokenMonkeyProductions]

#facts

[@GuyFromJupiter]

This test demonstrates why I like Kobalt power tools: big brand power with reasonable price tags, batteries cheap enough to compete with Harbor Freight, and one of the better warranties around. Not all of their tools are home runs, but I haven't run into any duds either, so as a high end consumer grade brand I like them.

[@toejamr1]

Stay away from the battery air compressors and you’re good.

[@52Ford]

I bought into Kobalt 24V when it first came out. Most of my tools have serial numbers under 500. The two issues I've had over the years of use (professionally) were minor. The chuck on the hammer drill get's sticky if you don't keep a little oil in it. 3-in-1 or similar light machine oil works. Otherwise they get stuck. I've probably driven 50,000 or more screws with the 3/8" impact (not XTR) and it still works. Only issue is that the LED burned out. All the other tools have worked great. I really aught to get a sponsorship from Kobalt with amount of their tools I have. Like a walking advertisement when I work somewhere. Edit: I also have Milwaukee, Bosch, and DeWalt cordless. Not super biased - I just think Kobalt has done a good job.

[@35RSkyline]

Not always lol. Kobalts high tq impact can't touch milwaukees.

[@chrisE815]

Harbor freight is pretty low value when it comes to cordless tools

[@alcerz984]

Like I said the only dud I know of is the 6 inch polisher

[@Callelle6251]

I'm always excited to see new Kobalts tested, they're definitely one of the hidden underdogs and I usually recommend them to people who think DeWalt or Milwaukee is out of their price range.

[@kuchiefsdabomb]

I'm 14 tools, 6 batteries, and 3 chargers deep. It's been great, Keep recommending it.

[@6btcummins805]

The smile whilst sweating emoji is how every Milwaukee owner feels when buying a battery! Great editing

[@Mis73rRand0m]

Yeah i'm probably going to resort to getting a contact welder and a load of 18650's as cheap insurance.

[@Dansk55]

@@Mis73rRand0m Definitely this. I built my own 12v with Samsung cells and a aliexpress welder.

[@Averna222]

@@Mis73rRand0m My old 4.0 18v and 2.0 12v batteries are getting pretty tired as well and I plan on doing the same thing.

[@Mis73rRand0m]

Man so I replied to a Hoovies garage comment and all the haters came out of the woodwork like a Twitter thread. I Post here and real people who do real things with their time have positive replies. Very refreshing. They were basically unrelated replies, but it's pretty clear which community is actually useful to society.

[@TorqueTestChannel]

@@Mis73rRand0m We friggin love our tool community. Glad you're enjoying it too

[@J.Wick.]

Always enjoy seeing some Kobalt love. IMO, they're the 2nd most overlooked brand that makes great tools, right behind MHPT. That's a nice looking middie.

[@ww321]

On sale at Lowe's for $149 for the kit. I'm picking one up tomorrow. Thanks for the video.

[@Doogle141]

I have the older bigger 24v max you mentioned and I have used it heavily for years been a great tool. Might have to get this smaller one soon though. You guys are great!

[@alessandrocruz_]

I've purchased a Kobalt 24v 3-tool combo kit around 2 years ago. They're still running up just fine, plenty of power, quick charging is great. I can't see how someone would be disappointed with these tools. And that new impact wrench is just another proof of their competence.

[@racer311990able]

Just entered the Kobalt line and I love it so far. This seems like a perfect mid torque compromise when you need to squeez in a tight spot

[@browner8125]

When the XTR line came out I watch reviews made the decision to purchase a few of the tools then a month later the rest. I absolutely love them. Both the 1/4 and half inch impacts are beasts. The reciprocating saw eats through whatever is out in front of it. The circ saw is no slouch. My trouble with the XTR line is they have left us hanging. We need more tools but are more interested in pushing the flex brand. It's sad Kobalt, give me freaking grinder and a legit masonry drill.

[@WilReid]

KAG 424B-03 and KRH 124B-03? Are those no good? Or you mean sad b/c they haven't made XTR versions of them yet?

[@browner8125]

@@WilReid yes sad because they haven't made XTR versions. I do use my tools semi professionally. So I like the power offered by XTR line. I like the price point because I don't make 100% of my living with my tools. If I did make my entire living with my tools I would have already switched over to something with a more extensive line up. Of course this is just my own situation and experience. In know way am I telling other people what they should or shouldn't get.

[@zachhoefs9543]

As an owner of the XTR high torque after seeing your video on it...yeah, she's a big girl. I'm a trucker, and I've used it to replace shocks and frame bolts on the ol' crate. And when I'm in bad neighborhoods, I carry it in case I need to bludgeon anyone that decides they want to eff around.

[@MrJamesonStyles]

Love my XTR high torque, thing is a monster. Never met a bolt or nut it couldn't take off in normal automotive work in rusty Minnesota. Really comes into its own running the bearing press forcing screw, pressing out old bearings without a shop press I need all the torque I can get. It's still a fight but I can put battery after battery through the XTR and it doesn't quit.

[@enthused7591]

Glad to see the price and performance continue to move in the right directions on these newer brushless impacts. Competition is a great thing. This just puts into perspective how insane of a deal Home Depot has had over the last 2 months on their Ryobi HP High Torque 1,170 torque impact wrench with a 4.0 HP battery at $159 (normally $300). Such a steal for anyone looking for their first "take anything off" impact wrench. Edit: Here's the Home Depot part #: PBLIW01B-PBP004

[@luisinhoens90]

I only have the P262 mid-torque but just for fun I searched for the high torque and it's now $199 with a 4Ah battery and charger. That's still a heck of a deal; for the record I paid $149 for the mid torque with the same battery and charger but I would've gladly paid the extra $50 for double the torque despite having no use for such high numbers LOL

[@enthused7591]

@@luisinhoens90 Home Depot makes it hard to find but put this number in the Home Depot search bar. It's still only $159. Absolute steal: PBLIW01B-PBP004

[@aussiehardwood6196]

Yeah but whats the real cost when you open your tool draw & see Ryobi tools inside...🥵 It hurts.

[@enthused7591]

@@aussiehardwood6196 I'm with ya, I switched over to Milwaukee over the last couple months due to the absurd deals Home Depot has had, basically clearancing out all the 3rd gen M18 Fuel stuff, but certain Ryobi tools are decent in my opinion, this high torque impact being one of them.

[@bleach_drink_me]

Going to add this Kobalt tool to my collection soon. Thanks for the test

[@toyotatundra0455]

TTC is always ahead of the competition. I went tp Lowe's this week and the store doesn't have the new gen Kobalt tools.

[@hellothere4342]

Because of this channel I went and brought the Dewalt DCF891. So far so good,haven't needed to break out the high torque yet.

[@juanc5149]

I think this tested pretty good! I mean it’s right inline with what chervon promised. If I owned this tool I would not be disappointed. I think those breakaway test from another channel we all enjoy might of given some elevated expectations of what this tool ought be able to do.

[@chilic82]

I agree, but if that test was incorrect for this tool, does that go for every tool since the same testing process is used?

[@rishisonoo7997]

Glad to finally see this test. I bought one last weekend. Based on other videos of this I was hoping to see this blow all other mid torques away. I am a little disappointed but will still keep it. Thanks TTC.

[@helpme8970]

I’ve been having Kobalt since I’m obsessed with Blue and that was what I could afford right out of high school back in 2009 and I can say I’ve never had problems besides the air inflator and the oscillating tool but I use my cordless drill every single day to mix sand mix,thinset,or grout in a 5gal bucket and it hasn’t burned out yet and I’ve never replaced it

[@OBSessed1995]

I am in the Kobalt line, and I use my hammer drill and impact driver every day. They've been great to me. I also have the chunky 24v 1/2" and I haven't found a bolt that it could reach that it couldn't break loose. I think I'll have to pick one of these up at some point. This looks like a similar size to their old 'mid torque' that had similar torque numbers to their impact driver

[@2down4up]

I own precisely zero Kobalt power tools but honestly considering the battery you get and the speed of the charger, $60 probably isn’t enough which would make the test result even better. Great tests and great videos!

[@ziontrain7540]

You teach me so much when it come to impact drill 🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲

[@justinv3080]

Just bought the KIW 4024A-03 kit on the Lowes sale, only $149 now until July 24th ($80 off). This will be replacing my weak little Ryobi P261 that I keep in the trunk for emergencies. It has worked okay the couple times I use it but struggled one time removing some rusty lug nuts off an altima that I was helping change a flat tire.

[@h8GW]

It's starting to get hard to be able to buy a _bad_ new impact wrench -as long as you stay off Amazon.-

[@jeffmorefield]

Excellent video, I really appreciate all the hard work you put in your videos.

[@FusionBoost2.0]

Good thing you didn't overlap the Dewalt, don't want to make everyone feel bad lol

[@gts5930]

Thanks for comparing the 2962 1/2". The 2960 kind of skews things even though I own both. (wish you guys would just use the 2962 on the rankings chart) Great video as always! Love your flashlight and leaf blower vids too!

[@Captmarksparrow]

For anyone that’s finding this video in 2023, until January this tool is on sale for 149 as a kit. Absolutely bonkers value.

[@jonathansherwood5841]

WOW! Kobalt has done very well with this one! And with that price, a real underdog that one is.

[@mengvaj87]

Love it... how kobalt increases the new line

[@148Reaper]

They all seem to be fairly similar performance wise, But that mid torque 1/2" milwaukee is probably my favourite tool. It's Just so nice and compact for the performance you get with it. They just need to focus on keeping their prices down as there is too much competition to try and charge a premium.

[@jurj97]

I work as an auto service worker for the city I live in and use the Kobalt daily. I use the 4ah ultimate performance with it and it's been able to remove lug nuts hammered on by the previous employee with and IR air impact no problem. It was even able to remove 32mm backhoe lug nuts when the 1" was out of service

[@dannyhefner]

is it not worth using it with the provided battery that comes with the kit ?

[@jurj97]

@@dannyhefner the battery that comes with is works perfectly fine but with the ultimate output there's a noticeable difference

[@MrJamesonStyles]

I love my XTR high-torque but it's too cumbersome for some jobs. I have an non-XTR impact driver with adapter which helps out but doesn't have the beans for things like stuck brake caliper bracket bolts. I could definitely see myself filling out the stable with this mid-torque and patting myself on the back again for not overspending on Milwaukee. This thing is an incredible value as a kit, and another 4ah battery will not go amiss.

[@Izalfume]

If you have a compressor just get the Astro pneumatic onyx, most powerful and stubbiest 3/8! It's only like $110

[@MrMrfed]

the regular small 1/2 or 3/8 impact can do brakes easily but might not be able to remove sized lung nuts

[@john_barnett]

If Kobalt was available in Australia I would probably go for it, they seem good for the price. I use DeWalt for 20v and Milwaukee for 12v

[@TierNoneOperator]

I daily drove this things bigger brother (the older "high" torque) in a busy autoshop for 5 years almost to the day untill the switch melted on me just a few days ago. If the new mid torque can match that performance or exceed it I will 100% be buying one for a replacement. Nice that I've already got the batteries too.

[@thevillain8151]

Just buying the DeWalt seems to be the answer really, having the flexvolt 6ah battery puts you into so many tools

[@MichaelMullane]

I would love to see you test pistol mounted lights! Some of their brightness ratings seem improbable. 🙏

[@thatguy7919]

My local Lowe's had the whole Kobalt 1/2" mid torque impact wrench kit on sale for only $150 Insane bang for your buck

[@moicus29]

Shop Tool Reviews channel had this thing removing a 1000 ft-lb fastener. Not sure if the coarse threads affected the reading but you can watch it.

[@jordanalexander615]

Wish you could test their 8 amp hour ultimate output

[@shawn7913]

Yeah, that and an xtr side by side test

[@theperfectpaintertoolreview]

I've been waiting for this video

[@armedappalachian]

The last time I was this early, I spent two weeks in the NICU.

[@Spike-sk7ql]

Honestly, what would be more interesting to see, would be you guys torque the bolt on the dyno, and use the impacts to remove it. See how long, and even if they can take bolts loose torqued to certain levels. Actually put those "breakaway torque" figures to the test.

[@TorqueTestChannel]

Depending on how you set up a breakaway test you can be +/- 40%

[@Spike-sk7ql]

@@TorqueTestChannel I see. That was just kind of an idea to name it. It would be interesting to put them up against each other actually loosening tightened bolts though. It's nice to see how tight they are able to make something and all, but I use my impacts to take things apart a lot more than I use them to put things together. Even when I put things together with them, it's just to snug them down, and then break out the torque wrench for that final tightening. Even if you don't use the "test the breakaway torque" phrase, it would still be a great test to show. I'm guessing many people watching these videos use impacts to take things apart more than put together too.

[@baileyharger3433]

been using them (xtr bit driver, xtr high torque, electric ratchet) professionally in automotive for over a year now and they haven't done me wrong. A couple of my XTR batteries have died on me but again the warranty and price redeems that. Honestly there isn't better out there for the price. And my setup for them has saved me at least 1000$ compared to coworkers Milwaukee setups

[@WilReid]

So what you're saying is a Flex mid torque will likely be a really nice addition to the chart when they release one.

[@cztech2631]

I'm pretty excited I got this Impact Wrench for $125 from Lowe's. The last-gen was in-stock and on discount. A manager just gave me this one for $125 since he couldn't find the last-gen one on the floor anywhere or up in the rafters. For $125 got a 4ah battery, charger, and the Impact Wrench, which the battery alone in the kit is worth $60, so it's an insane deal I got.

[@Jodez23]

That was a hell of a deal. How's it holding up?

[@cztech2631]

@@Jodez23I’ve only used it on a tire rotation, but it worked great for that. It took the lugs off easily. I only use it sparingly on family cars, but so far so good.

[@Rattdogg4q2]

Could you show a graph starting in the middle out to the right for tightening and out to the left for loosening? Then you can visually see how well-balanced the tool is.

[@NyksWyldMynd]

Definitely good tool for the money!

[@flawedchemical]

Just what I wanted to wake up to on my birthday!

[@EastKYEDC]

I’d like to see the new craftsman high torque tested and see if it’s worth the money

[@mholzer54]

As @aspencerl135 said, that is why I own exclusively Kobalt. Their tools target the exact correct market. Mid-range for the demanding DIYer. One thing I would like to point out is that Lowe's return policy adds so much value. It is reminiscent of Sears, back in their prime. Home Depot lost me after they sent me packing with a 2-day old hedger. So I bought another at Lowes, which oddly enough, broke in the second week. So when I went to Lowe's to do a return, they told me to go get another one. Such a pleasure! Have you done any compares on post-sale support? I know it is hard to quantify, but it seems every bit as important as the product. Love your work.

[@daveclark8337]

Lowes is clearing out the previous version of this right now for $143, In-Store only. It's Model #KIW 1524A-03 and comes with a 4ah battery and charger.

[@EliAngwin]

They need to start adding 1/4, 3/8 impacts and maybe even a 12v line for the same. They can compete with big red. I’ve used enough of both and have almost all Kobalt tools and haven’t been let down yet.

[@romeogold5367]

Porter cable has a new impact wrench at TSC.

[@NELSONG12]

Kobalt kit with battery and fast charger on sale for $149. That's really good value/bargain!

[@trenxo1008]

As far as I know, you only test Impact Wrenches and stuff, but I am curious if you would test other cordless tools too. Like for example REMS Cordless Press or a Viega Pressgun, compare how much force they apply while "pressing"

[@coltonjacobs5383]

How is the trigger on this new Kobalt? I own the Kobalt XTR tools now, but I've noticed the triggers are quite "laggy".

[@Hhhiii2233]

Here in Canada a new tool brand ive had great success with so far is Canadian tires new maxximum brand would be so nice to see someone give there impacts a test (broke school student who doesn't have the money to do trial and error myself)

[@jb6574]

I wouldn't be surprised if they come close to their advertised rating. They make some of the best impact wreches. I had one and still regret selling.

[@xXwHiTeXBoYzXx]

Are you planning on getting the new craftsman high torque 1/2 impact? Because im interested to see the numbers.

[@sissymarylen15741a]

Just got this tool for $149 with 4ah and fast charger

[@johnasosajr]

Why you gotta do us like this on Friday I’m burning the wrong ship with a torch trying to watch your video at the same time lol

[@gp9043]

Would be interesting to see how the canadian brand maximum stacks up.

[@Ka_Gg]

SIZE MATTERS! These impacts are going to keep getting smaller and I'm all here for it. I have an older Milwaukee monster and although it'll take anything off, it doesn't always fit. Then you are using extensions and swivel sockets that kill the torque.

[@MyKnifeJourney]

Pretty impressive given it's Kobalt and going toe to toe with Milwaukee and Makita.

[@thomaswalchesky8961]

I would consider Kobalt when my other impact dies. Looks like they bring the beans at 2/3 if the cost.

[@masonkaye5]

You guys should test using the 8ah xr battery, considering you guys use the 12ah dewalt

[@Ops535]

Hope , they will have 3/8" version on this impact.

[@helpme8970]

I also use it to hang durock and it’s not problem at all just like I said the oscillating tool I’ve had multiple of those literally burn up on me so I’ve had to switch to Milwaukee now since I gave up on Kobalt but just that tool particularly and the air inflator but I never expected much out of that to begin with

[@moleisrich1]

Well I don’t even own a tool but I keep watching

[@tylerfraker7716]

Glad to see I didn’t jump from ryobi to default for the DCF891 for nothing haha.

[@PunisherOfDeath101]

The benefit to this is if your already in the kobalt ecosystem. I am at home so I'm getting it for around the house work.

[@ramonroman7739]

Can you do a test on the bigger kobalt impact wrench there’s not really any videos on it

[@StephenHolland-Wildstephy]

Is there anywhere we can see the full lists?

[@joseCalderon1976]

I'll take the Cobalt or even rigid over the Makita and the other more expensive ones because of the price. I'm just a DIY kind of guy, so I don't need the lightest thing out there. I just want to be able to take off my tires from my personal vehicle's, and hopefully the brake caliper brackets when I do my brakes 👍. I do have a Makita XDT15RB impact driver and drill combo and they were very expensive when I got them. But I like them because they are small. Yes, in that case, I did get the more expensive stuff indeed. I'm contradicting myself, but I was talking about the mid torque stuff, not the smaller stuff. Another great one! Right now it's a $150.40 for the Kobalt (battery and charger included) at Lowes.

[@scottbionicnerf8727]

My main issue with a tool that wants to be, but isn't quite up to contractor level is that rest of the line isn't able to stand with the occasional 1-hit-wounder the off-brand may produce.

[@Bootyspaghetti]

Even though the Milwaukee placed last in the 4ah test we all know it’s a better impact. There’s a reason that every job I’m on all the trades use Milwaukee. It’s by far the most versatile platform on the market and in everyday work environments will outperform every other brand. Dewalt wins for the miter saw though, I think we can all agree on that

[@ickess]

I’m torn between this kobalt and the dewalt DCF921. I like the size of the dewalt and all my other tools are dewalt but this has big numbers. It’s currently 149.00 at Lowe’s with batt and charger. The 921 is at home depot free right now if you buy a two batt and charger kit for 199. Can’t decide.

[@Spazin0ut]

Will you test the ingersoll rand 588a1? I’m curious if the real numbers are correct.

[@jaimejagassar8542]

Can you do a tool review on the do Wox impact wrench

[@IDIturboDiesel]

Can you test the 2769-20 Milwaukee 1/2 extended anvil impact wrench?

[@TorqueTestChannel]

Extended anvils make the same power as we've found

[@rene5861]

Love my kobalt content

[@matthewwortham9705]

Please test dewalts dcf840 it seems to be stronger than any of the other cordless impacts 1/4 inch drive it really has the beans i’ve been working with it for about a year and it beats just about anything I’ve seen from dewalt I don’t know if it’s because it’s a cheaper option or something but would love to see it get thrown into a video

[@sissymarylen15741a]

The kit is $149 at Lowes. Making this beast unbeatable

[@dontew90]

Would you get this or a right angle kobalt impact wrench?

[@ihatecrackhead]

i am not busting big bolts, this is perfect for me

[@MrMrfed]

would like to see it with the 8amp hop battery

[@its_shadeo7758]

There is a new craftsman high torque 1/2 impact out!

[@bleach_drink_me]

My local store has this marked down for 199 for the kit now. As of today jun 6 2023

[@mylarhyrule904]

Can we appreciate that in real world scenarios that we usually never hammer on a nut over 5 seconds with a mid torque? Things that tight we grab the high torque when possible…. Pushing your tools that hard shortens tool lifespan dramatically…. I say this to say…. m18 has a torque curve that looks downright sexy compared to the rest…. Not even close

[@TorqueTestChannel]

We're starting from zero torque, your bolt probably isnt. The torque # at the top of the graph is in relation to which tool would take that off sooner. So if you're talking 50, 80, 100 ft-lbs worth of stuck, yes it's quite a gap. But if you're starting at much higher levels of not budging, you'd need to wait till further in the run to compare which tool will do the job or do it faster.

[@thejo6331]

your phrasing about this tool being under-stressed makes me think there's a dino-powered experiment with this hammer mechanism on the horizon... 👀👀👀

[@TorqueTestChannel]

More like we're hoping to see a similar form factor version show up as XTR or Flex that puts the pedal to the metal.

[@jon-erikbutcher3609]

​@@TorqueTestChannel Im happy with the size. Ive had my XR 1/2' for a few years now and its heavy, but i knew that being a half inch, shes not gonna be as light as a Snap On CT761 (i know, poor comparison). Id love to see a 3/8' with this power in this size or maybe a hair smaller body. Once i see that, im sold.

[@kiefernunley7402]

How much difference would it make to strap these impacts to a solid surface and eliminate the “human insulator” factor?

[@bleach_drink_me]

I hope to see a next gen high torque from kobalt. Don't get me wrong the XTR high torque is okay but i want to see a more powerful option from them so they play with the big boys better.

[@george746]

So Kobalt is a better choice when buying a mid-impact wrench?

[@Joel4JC]

Why hasn't this been added to the live spreadsheet?

[@Biohnikle]

Man you gotta do the new Craftsman v20 high torq

[@TorqueTestChannel]

I believe it's been on sale for less than 24hrs :P

[@juanc5149]

I haven’t even heard of the new v20 high torque. But I’ll bet you a dollar it’ll test exactly like a dcf899! I’m going to look at it now. I’m expecting a dcf899 but red. Even down to the three cooling slots instead of the dcf900 a 5 at the bottom of the handle.

[@TorqueTestChannel]

@@juanc5149 Oh for sure, it's def a DCF899 clone. One way to be sure though!

[@pkt1213]

I didn't know this was launching. I do need a bigger impact than the 3/8 and 1/2 compact (I guess) I currently have. Just get this or the big XTR?

[@TorqueTestChannel]

I'd take this one

[@pkt1213]

@@TorqueTestChannel That is where I was leaning. I wish it came with a 4.0ah XTR battery. I have a ton of the regular ones but just one XTR battery.

[@paulkelley7445]

Have you heard of a problem with Milwaukee frame nailer my laps a quarter of an inch Drivin 3 1/4 inch nails

[@IPHONEhn504]

That Kobalt look like a mid torque Metabo, HTP in every aspect

[@Renoman86]

What battery was used on the milwaukee?

[@johntaylor9458]

Check out the new brushless 1/2 from hart

[@linus_ffs1257]

Is Hilti something you guys are planning to test ?

[@TorqueTestChannel]

ttps://kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZqOzoJVmpZZjhbc

[@ProxyFinal]

Finally!