Manual Tools Appraisal

Kobalt Manual Tile Cutter

The item identified is a manual tile cutter, appearing to be a model manufactured by Kobalt, as indicated by the visible 'KOBALT' branding on the handle. This tool is designed for cutting ceramic, porcelain, and sometimes stone tiles. It consists of a long, flat base (partially obscured) typically made of aluminum or steel, providing stability for the tile. Long, parallel metal rails, likely made of hardened steel or chrome-plated steel to ensure smooth operation and durability, run the length of the cutter. A carriage assembly with a cutting wheel moves along these rails. The handle, where the 'KOBALT' logo is prominently displayed in blue and white, is attached to this carriage and is used to apply downward pressure and score the tile. The handle itself appears to have a rubber or synthetic grip for comfort and control. Below the cutting mechanism, there's a breaking bar or lever system, visible in gray and blue sections, which is used to snap the scored tile along the cut line. The overall construction appears robust, suggesting a tool built for professional or heavy-duty DIY use. The visible components show some signs of use, such as minor scuffs and dirt, but no significant damage like bends, cracks, or heavy corrosion are apparent. The metal rails appear to be in good condition, which is crucial for precise cuts. The 'good shape' context provided suggests that despite visible wear, the tool remains fully functional. The color scheme includes metallic gray for the main frame elements, chrome or silver for the rails, and blue detailing, characteristic of Kobalt tools. Given the general appearance and the branding, this unit likely falls within a modern manufacturing period, possibly within the last 10-20 years, aligning with contemporary tool designs.