The holiday season brought a new wave of utility knives to Lowe's, specifically the Kobalt EDC-style mini, touted as a collaboration with Gil-Tek and inspired by the RUK model.

Initially intrigued by the $9.98 price for a set of three, I placed an order, leveraging free shipping with a $35+ purchase.

However, after receiving the knives, I quickly realized they weren't a good fit.

While the construction appeared adequate, the unique operation – requiring a specific sliding motion – proved frustrating and potentially unsafe.

The oiled blades, a common feature in refill packs, created a slick surface that made blade removal difficult, with one knife stubbornly resisting extraction.

Considering the Gil-Tek RUK, a machined aluminum version costing $30 each, the Kobalt offering, likely made from cast aluminum, felt significantly less refined.

The lower price point – just $3.33 per knife – suggests a compromise in quality.

Ultimately, I found the design impractical and the operation potentially hazardous, leading me to return the set.

While the RUK's design is commendable, the Kobalt version simply didn't align with my preferences and usage style.

The experience highlights the importance of considering ergonomics and safety when choosing utility knives.