The Cobra XS is the smallest version of the Cobra series with a design that is marketed in part as an EDC plier. Knipex shaved off as much as they could to reduce weight and size while still keeping a significant amounts of capability. It's lightweight and thinness makes it easy in either the front or back pocket of the jeans. Even sitting down on it in my back pocket created no issue with comfort.
The cobra jaws are just as good as all other cobras and the ratchet action is very usable even one-handed. The handles are surprisingly comfortable and can get the job done on up to 1/2" fittings (maybe 3/4") and even grab onto straight 1" Sch80 PVC pipe. However, it falls notably short of even the 125mm cobras in comfort and leverage.
Overall the Cobra XS is the ultimate EDC plier, easily surpassing almost any multitool pliers. It is ideally suited for someone who occasionally needs to use them for serious use but for those relying on them several times everyday the 125mm is probably a necessary upgrade.
3 май 2021
