Multi-tools are good

[jackknifeh]

BEFORE YOU START READING: I typed this in MS Word and it is a full page so go get coffee if you continue.

I've noticed lately that Spyderco only has one multi-tool, the Byrdrench. They used to have a Spydyrench also which I bought a couple of years ago. I got the more expensive one because I thought it had the better steel in the blade. There wasn't much difference in the two as I recall because I checked with my shrink, guru from India and the psychic hotline on which one to buy. I don’t know if many are interested in multi-tools but for me they are one of those things you can live without until you get one. Then you wonder how you got along without it. I would recommend the Byrdrench to anyone who wants a multi-tool but with the following thoughts before you buy.

The BEST thing about the Spyderco tool is that it separates so you can have a screwdriver and wrench to be used separately. This is a great feature in a multi-tool and the only one that will do this that I know of. Have you ever tried to loosen a screw or bolt just to find the nut on the other end turns as well? If you don’t separate the tool it unfolds to give you an adjustable wrench (like a crescent wrench) about 6” long which is in just about every tool kit. I use this a lot. The screwdriver tips are there but just a bit more difficult to access than other multi-tools. They are still there though when you need them. Also you can change the tips to what you need. They are the universal screwdriver tips. You can also use a magnetic extension. The tool also has a slip-joint plier that is moderately useful. Due to the design of the multi-tool one side of the jaws aren’t even. This is a disadvantage to say the least. Another disadvantage is the tool is not very comfortable to squeeze hard when using the pliers. Other than that they work fine. We do need to remember that multi-tools will NEVER replace the real tools. They are for a selection of tools for relatively small jobs when you don’t have your tool belt or box with you. When I leave the house to go on a date with my girlfriend I take my tool belt so my wife will think I’m going to work somewhere. Other than that I don’t usually have it with me.

The only thing the Spyderco multi-tools lack is needle nose pliers. I have a SOG PowerLock multi-tool and the needle nose pliers get used more than anything else. I would like to say that SOG multi-tools are hands down, by far the BEST multi-tools I’ve ever used. I’ve used several and read advertisements about a lot of different ones. One of the best attributes about them is you can replace the individual tools in the multi-tool. There are several to choose from that may not come in the tool you buy. You can get the one you want from SOG and replace it yourself. I’ve done this and now have a multi-tool that fits my needs better because it has what I need, not what someone at the company thinks would be a good selection. They are exceptional in all other areas as well. There are several models of course. If you are thinking of getting a multi-tool and don’t check into SOG you’ll be doing yourself a disservice even if you end up getting something else. I remember now seeing a youtube video on testing different multi-tools and the PowerLock came out on top. I don’t remember who did the test but I think it was a company or some un-biased organization. I saw it after owning the powerlock and wasn’t surprised. SOG also has a PowerAssist with two knife blades (plain and serrated) which are accessed, opened and closed with one hand when the tool is closed which is really nice. I have one of these as well. The only problem with this tool is the knives take up more space and reduces the number of other item the tool will hold. Since I always have a knife anyway I don’t use it too much and have considered selling it.

Here is what I do with multi-tools when I wear them. I always have the PowerLock on my belt first. Then would come the Spydyrench because it has great features that the PowerLock doesn’t. With the two of them on my belt I have a selection of tools that will echo a small all-purpose tool box in a utility closet.

Sal, I have praised another company’s product in this thread. I hope you don’t mind. I did it for two reasons. One was to emphasize the benefits of your product and also to emphasize the features that your product doesn’t have. Therefore if you consider putting more effort into multi-tools you will have a little customer feedback. I have as much hands on handling of this type of tool as anyone I know. I know competition in this area would have to be difficult (I mean challenging, there are no difficulties). Everyone and their brother is already making and selling some really good ones.

Jack

[Woz]

I always back up my EDC knife with a multitool. I have Leatherman, Victorinox, CRKT, Gerber and SOG brand tools of different sizes, and I have the Spyderench. as with my knives I have an EDC tool rotation, so even the Spyderench is in my pocket and sees use quite often. I like it, it's a great design and really useful once you get used to use it. It is exotic, but not just a toy but a really nice working tool.

[npueppke]

I really like the idea, but carrying them is something I always have a hard time with. I don't like having stuff on my belt. Sometimes when I have a backpack I will carry one but I still usually don't have it when I need it. Luckily that doesn't happen very often... unlike my knife, I don't know how to function without it :D .

I have a bike multi tool which I really like, though, for carrying around on the trails. It's the Topeak Mini Plus 18, very highly recommended. Everything you might need except possibly a pair of needlenose pliers, but if you combine it with a LM Juice you'd be all set.

[jackknifeh]

I really like the idea, but carrying them is something I always have a hard time with. I don't like having stuff on my belt. Sometimes when I have a backpack I will carry one but I still usually don't have it when I need it. Luckily that doesn't happen very often... unlike my knife, I don't know how to function without it :D .

I have a bike multi tool which I really like, though, for carrying around on the trails. It's the Topeak Mini Plus 18, very highly recommended. Everything you might need except possibly a pair of needlenose pliers, but if you combine it with a LM Juice you'd be all set.

Most sheaths have the belt loop right on the back of the sheath so it sits right on the belt. I find that to be uncomfortable and the tool is harder to get out of the sheath. I usually rig another belt loop with old boot leather or something like that so the sheath hangs about 2 inches lower. I don't have that "right on my belt feeling" but the tool is still there. You can also twist the sheath into a position where the tool/knife comes out easier. I've been in some pretty strange positions during work or sex that make it hard to get to my multi-tool. I wish companies and sheathmakers would consider this. Don't redesign the sheath because I know people who like it right on the belt. Maybe an extra excessory item that would fit standard sheaths. Don't know if you would like this idea better but it works for me.

Jack

[ICSK]

It's great to know that you carry both a knife and multi-tool on your person at all times. Personally, I don't think I could wear both the SpydeRench and the SOG Powerlock at the same time, especially considering your uses are going to be spontaneous (unless you use it constantly for work). At 9.6 oz for the SOG Powerlock and 7.8 for the SpyderRench, they're in a weight class amongst the heavier full sized multi-tools. I simply couldn't live with myself trying to carry that much weight. However, let me caveat that. By carrying these, you're going to get a lot of capability. I'm sure you'll be the envy of all your coworkers and friends when the time comes for you and your multi-tools to save the day!

In short, it's awesome that you EDC these items. As long as you are consistent in your carry (ie you bring these every single day!), I can imagine you and any of the people with you will be well off if something breaks and needs fixing. As for me, I EDC a Leatherman Squirt PS4. It's practically a featherweight at 1.9 oz. However, I have found times where a bigger set of pliers would have been ideal.

[jackknifeh]

In short, it's awesome that you EDC these items. As long as you are consistent in your carry (ie you bring these every single day!), I can imagine you and any of the people with you will be well off if something breaks and needs fixing. As for me, I EDC a Leatherman Squirt PS4. It's practically a featherweight at 1.9 oz. However, I have found times where a bigger set of pliers would have been ideal.

You can overkill with the old boy scout slogan "Be prepared". I'm still one for the better prepared than sorry theory. I can always tighten the battery cables on a pretty girl's car. You guys are on your own.

Jack

[HotSoup]

Usually have a Victorinox SwissTool Spirit with me at work.

[Evil D]

I love having a multitool, but i can't stand carrying them. Too heavy, too bulky, no matter which one we talk about. If you want it light, you have to sacrifice content. I had a Leatherman Wave Ti and i loved it, but i can't stand having stuff on my belt. It worked ok with the pocket clip though...i might carry one again someday.

[Pneumothorax]

When I leave the house to go on a date with my girlfriend I take my tool belt so my wife will think I’m going to work somewhere. Other than that I don’t usually have it with me.

Jack

??? joke, right?

[2cha]

I keep one in my backpack and at least one in each car. My favorite is leatherman crunch--I love the "vice-grip" type pliers. I showed off my spydewrench the other day to my sorta step-brother (his dad and my mom aren't married, but may as well be). It really is the coolest multi tool I've ever seen. My favorite feature is the useful adjustable wrench and pliers that can turn bolts without marring. I'd buy one for everyone on my knife-gift list if they were still US made.

[HotSoup]

??? joke, right?

LOL thats between him and his wife.

[Chopping Broccoli]

I've been in some pretty strange positions during work or sex that make it hard to get to my multi-tool.

Jack

You sir, are a funny guy. I don't want to know what kind of sex you are having that would require the use or a multi tool.

[Zendemic]

I keep one in my backpack and at least one in each car.

I always keep one in my backpack too. Saves me from having to cary it on my person but is usually accessible.

You sir, are a funny guy. I don't want to know what kind of sex you are having that would require the use or a multi tool.

You'll never know when you'll need to use the pliers and the screw driver at the same time...

[Jazz]

I always have one on, even when wearing a light, Hawaiian style shirt. Once you carry them, you don't even notice the weight. At home it's a smaller Leatherman in my shorts pocket. They get used, especially at work in the kitchen.

- best wishes, Jazz.

[jackknifeh]

??? joke, right?

It was a joke I'm sorry to say. It's time for my mid-life crisis but I can't afford a 23 year old blonde. They are pretty expensive these days. Or any hair color for that matter. Maybe I'll sell some knives. lol

Jack

[defenestrate]

(chuckles at jackknifeh and ClusterFlux)

I keep one multi-tool in my Jeep and I often will have one on me when I'm out at places other than work because work has an issue with me carrying bladed implements.

[Jordan]

I share your love for the multi-tool. Sadly, I'm not real good about carrying one. It's not a weight or bulk issue, it's just not something that I grab on my way out the door everyday. This has led to quite a bit of self recrimination when, on days when I don't have my Wave or one of the half dozen gerbers that the Army has issued me, I need pliers or a screwdriver... alas, I've yet to learn my lesson. I think I am going to follow suit with all you guys that keep yours in your vehicle... that might keep it more or less close at hand when I need it. Sometimes I miss my IOTV... I just kept the leatherman sheath on the vest and I had my mt with me all the time. Then again, that thing weighed better than 60 lbs thanks to all the crap I stuck onto it... so my sentimentality has limits :-P.

[jackknifeh]

I share your love for the multi-tool. Sadly, I'm not real good about carrying one. It's not a weight or bulk issue, it's just not something that I grab on my way out the door everyday. This has led to quite a bit of self recrimination when, on days when I don't have my Wave or one of the half dozen gerbers that the Army has issued me, I need pliers or a screwdriver... alas, I've yet to learn my lesson. I think I am going to follow suit with all you guys that keep yours in your vehicle... that might keep it more or less close at hand when I need it. Sometimes I miss my IOTV... I just kept the leatherman sheath on the vest and I had my mt with me all the time. Then again, that thing weighed better than 60 lbs thanks to all the crap I stuck onto it... so my sentimentality has limits :-P.

The problem Jordan is you are/were in the wrong branch of the military. Just kidding and no offence. As a former USAF person I was in the wrong branch as well according to my father. 22 years Marine Corps. One tour in Korean conflict and one in the Viet Nam conflict. When I was older and talked to him about it, it was refreshing to hear a retired Maj. USMC's opinions of the two situations. All military people are not war mongers. Some are just doing the best they can in a bad situation even when they don't agree with it. I wish the best possible for the men/women in combat now. Get home.

Jack

[Jordan]

Heh, no offense taken. :) I am back, as it happens... arrived back on US soil on August 19th from dusty Kirkuk. But, I thank you kindly for the well wishing! I thank you for your service and would ask that you thank your father for his on my behalf as well.

[jackknifeh]

Welcome home Jordan.

Jack