Tools are what get the job done. And with the right ones in reach, a job that’s up to high standards and completed on time. They’re the lifelines for any tradie, and are desperately needed when surprises pop up around the house. While specific lines of work mean you’ll be using a few dedicated tools, having a combo kit opens up more possibilities. These will be packed with a wide selection of different tools, meaning you’re no longer needing a mate to help you out, but can complete the job yourself. 

Combo Kits – Covering the Basics

Combo tool kits can mean a lot of different things. This can be a single tool, often a high-end variant, supplied with everything that extends its usability across several different applications. Or a specialised tool offered by a specific manufacturer, such as fuel cell and battery-powered framing and fixing nailers. 

When speaking of cordless combo kits, this will be the tool itself, the appropriate batteries and chargers and any accessories that let users get more work done. More often though, a fully-featured cordless combo kit is stacked with all the basic tools used across different types of jobs. This can be construction, repairs, woodworking, automotive work, electrical, plumbing…the list goes on. There will be the necessary stuff like impact drivers, saws, grinders and sanders and a few additions that come in handy. This can be anything from blowers to clear dust and debris, lights for more worksite visibility to a custom storage solution to keep tools protected and clean. Buying all these in a single go certainly has its benefits. 

Why get a Cordless Combo Kit?

1. Practicality – Combo kits have all the necessary tools and then some more. You’ll have tools that are worthy of any home repair job and those that need a bit more grunt in specialised applications, such as sanding down flooring, or clearing spatter off from welds. If you’re an avid DIY-er, then the thought put in the tool range will cover most if not all of your needs. And if you’re a tradie, the scope that extra tools provide means that you won’t be found wanting in tasks where a specialised tool is needed. 
2. Convenience – A battery-powered cordless combo kit opens up a lot of possibilities. This consists of tools that are compact, and lightweight, yet with the right battery, powerful enough even for the most demanding tasks. And that same battery can power any other tool in the kit. You’ll praise the cordless option for portability, especially in job sites lacking power, and for less weight and no cords that snake around arms and legs. In short, cordless offers tools that are easy on the back, and can be used anywhere. 
3. Storage- Almost every combo tool kit will have some kind of storage option. These can be lightweight carry bags, to get your tools to the job quicker, or hard boxes in durable plastics that will also keep the tools protected in bad weather, free from dirt and dust, and help with organisation. You’ll also free up clutter in garages or utes.
4. Savings – Buying bulk always pays off. With a cordless combo kit, there are price savings on every tool or accessory that’s included. Buying these separately will incur higher costs, and lost time in ordering online or making the route to the shops. Kits are a one-off purchase with all that you’ll need. Smart shopping, for instance during EOTY sales, means more savings. 

Go for a cordless tool combo set if you’re making the move from a corded toolset and need the portability and practicality that cordless tools provide in bucketloads. Most buyers will stick to a favourite brand, but a kit with all the goodies provided by toolmakers at the forefront of tool and battery technology may change your mind. Many users not satisfied with the performance or range of one brand won’t hesitate to make the switch. This is also a good choice for anyone just starting out, for instance, job trainees that have completed their apprenticeship and need a dependable range of tools. Then again, you might be tempted by the savings to be had with the various tool attachments and accessories in single tool kits, such as extensive screwdrivers sets that are offered with impact drivers, or pole and trimmer attachments in different guises coming with hedge trimmers. 

What to Look for: 

• Tools that cover your line of work –  Needless to say, but any combo that doesn’t fulfil your needs is a no-go. Look for cordless combo kits that have all the tools to cover all tasks related to the job. These will need to be easy to use, easy to maintain and have the grunt for every day demanding jobs. 
• Battery Tech – This is where fine lines are drawn between different tool makers. 18V batteries are the most common and will power most tools. Some though will require beefier 54V batteries with extended working ranges to provide the juice in more heavy-duty and demanding tools. Bigger kits with several tools will also have two or more batteries and compatible chargers. The aim is to achieve all-day usability. 
• Warranties – Combo kits are an investment and you want that investment protected. Better brands and retailers will have 3 or 5-year warranties on all tools and accessories included in the kit. 
• Accessories List – Besides the necessary batteries and chargers, look for goodies that are just nice to have, such as Bluetooth radios and cordless lights that are powered by said batteries. 
• Price – A set budget will mean that you get a lot of value. The harder thing is to choose between cordless combo sets from different brands offering more or less the same tools.