A cordless combo kit constitutes a tool box containing an array of useful tools, which have varied applications for skilled workers as well as home users. The tools are enclosed in a sturdy case, making it handy to carry around. Additionally, since all the tools included in the kit are cordless, the user will not be slowed in the absence of a power socket, making the combo kit an ideal companion for outdoor use. Some of the tools included in cordless Combo Kits are drills, saws, drivers, Hammers, sanders, and Ratchets.

Features of a cordless combo kit

A Cordless combo kit is normally differentiated into categories that are compiled based on the power parameters of the tools contained within, voltage consumed being the primary differentiating factor. Commonly, these kits are arranged into four voltage based groups; 14.4 volt, 18 volt, 19.2 volt, and 24 volt cordless combo kits. These kits are further classified depending on the number of tools included; 2-3 tool, 4-tool, 5-tool, and 6+ tool packs. A typical 2-3 tool cordless combo kit would consists of a drill, driver, and saw, while a 4-tool kit would contain a drill, driver, circular/jigsaw/Reciprocating saw, sander, or a flashlight/worklight. A 5-tool kit may also contain a job site radio, in addition to the other tools. A 6-tool kit adds one more item to the above tools, which could be the cordless cut-off tool. Most combo kits ships with a worklight, to enable the operator to work in the night, or in enclosed areas such as tunnels where lighting not be available.

In most combo kits, the drill and the driver are integrated into a single unit, with the hammer drill being the most popular drill in use. Some hammer drills generate a torque of around 600 inch lbs. at approximately 0-1800 revolutions per minute (rpm). A metal, single sleeve ratcheting chuck with carbide jaws ensures that the drill bits remain firmly fixed. Some of the drills have a Clip Lock system that retains the drill within arms length, which is a useful feature to have when working on a ladder, or when there is no convenient surface to place the tool. Occasionally, the drive chuck of the drill can be removed to expose a screw driving bit beneath. The drill could also incorporate the Shift Lock Drive mechanism, allowing speedy shifting from ‘drill’ to ‘driver’ modes. This system also keeps the clutch steady to enhance more effective performance. Most of the drills and drivers have a speed control system that permits the user to change the speed of the drill. These drills are accurate, fast, and enable the user to conserve energy by being automated.

The Circular saw included in some kits is a versatile cutting tool composed of a serrated edge circular disc that is housed in a metal case enclosing a motor to drive the saw. The speed of the saw is approximately 5000 revolutions per minute. This saw can cur through a variety of materials, such as wood, plastic, and even masonry. A magnesium shoe and guard as well as a fan-cooled motor increase the durability of the tool. A reciprocating saw may have a 4-position blade clamp enabling better cutting. A stroke length of approximately 1-1/8 inch allows the saw to function faster. A levered blade clamp allows the user to change the blade quickly and easily.

The cordless cut-off tool is a device that has both cutting and grinding capabilities, having a spindle lock for the user to change the wheels with ease. A vented metal case enables heat dissipation.

A sander is a tool is used to provide a smooth finish to various materials such as wood, metal and other materials.

Ratchets are tools similar to spanners, jacks, or winders that permit movement in one direction only. These tools are built for free play in direction opposite to which the task is to be performed. This implies that a nut can be screwed in without the ratchet needing to be removed from the nut and replaced again after each rotation.

One of the most needed items in the kit other than the basic tools is the worklight. This lamp emits a wide angle beam, thus covering a greater area. This lamp can either be made to stand on its base, or it can be hung. A xenon bulb increases the light intensity of the lamp, the most common voltage being 18 volts, having a run time of around three to five hours.

The batteries of the various tools are usually rechargeable and sometimes extra batteries would be included with the kit. Ni-MH batteries included with certain combo kits have good capacities and longer running times. Most kits have standby batteries along with the standard battery chargers.

What to look for in a cordless combo kit

A user can either choose cordless combo kits from the 2-3 tool kit to the 6+ tool kit depending on requirements and budgetary constraints. Additional spare pieces of the commonly used attachments for the tools, such as the chucks, drill bits, saw blades, dust bags are usually shipped inside the combo kit as it is these components that see the maximum wear and tear, due to the friction. A cordless combo kit has now become a ‘one-stop shop’ for any workshop task to be efficiently carried out. Some reputed manufacturers of cordless combo kits include Dewalt, Makita, Milwaukee, and Skil.