New Reviews

[Grant Lamontagne]

I still need to take pictures, but here's the reviews I've been working on lately.  See what you guys think...

Columbia River Knife and Tool Eat'n Tool



   Like many other folks, my first thoughts on the new CRKT Eat'n Tool were less than serious, and I wondered how any real multitool enthusiast or user would make use of this tool.  After carrying and using this tool I realized I was looking at this tool all wrong- it's not an Every Day Carry (EDC) type tool, it's a specialized tool for a camper or hiker who wants a lightweight spork with some extra functionality for maintaining equipment.  For the type of user who really cares about weight, the Eat'n Tool might just be the ticket.

   When you boil the Eat'n Tool down, it's basically a spork with a few extra cutouts that allow for other functions.  The spork area is significantly sized for a decent mouthful of stew and the tines are just long enough to spear a good sized hunk of potato or steak, but I'd like the tines to be a little less pointy and perhaps a little longer.  The tines as they are don't hold the food morsels as securely as I'd like, although my dogs sure appreciate it!  The spoon could also be a bit deeper, but all in all it functions well enough and I have no serious complaints.

   Also built into the Eat'n Tool is a bottle opener, a flathead screwdriver and three hexagonal wrench cutouts, although it surprises me that none are standard 1/4” sized which could have come in handy for use with 1/4” screwdriver bits.  I can only assume that the three cutouts are sized for fitting hiking equipment that I don't personally have.  This shouldn't be considered a serious drawback though, as I am not a hiker due to a bad foot and some arthritis, not because the equipment it is meant to be used on is obscure.  I will be sure to try it on the various components of my Coleman stove.

   The bottle opener recieved some extensive testing since it arrived, and seems more than adequate, even when the bottles start to get a little blurry!  The substantial sized handle offers a  significant amount of leverage for prying off a cap.  I could however see some potential for increasing it's functionality by sharpening the inside for a guthook/strap cutter that could also open prepackaged food items, or a protruding cutter blade so it could double as a can opener.  However, the bottle opener opens bottles well, and that's really all you really need from a bottle opener!

   Lastly we come to the screwdriver, which functions about as well as any other flathead- it's really hard to screw one of those up, and designer Liong Mah wisely decided not to get fancy with it.  The nice thing about it is that it's oriented at approximately 90 degrees to the rest of the tool so it can be used safely with a significant amount of torque, however it doesn't have any reach, so expect to only use it on surface mounted screws- it won't reach anything recessed more than about a quarter of an inch.

   There have been rumors about the Eat'n Tool being used as a self defense weapon, although there is no documentation at all from Columbia River to support this.  It isn't mentioned as a potentially defensive weapon anywhere in the catalogue or on the CRKT Website, however almost everyone who has heard of the Eat'N Tool seems to be under the impression that they'd seen or heard about this possibility somewhere, and everyone has an opinion on how effective it would be.  In my opinion, for what it's worth, I'd say that if you are in a situation that calls for a defensive weapon, the Eat'N Tool could be used, in as much as anything else could be- a pocket knife, climbing spikes, flashlight, keys or any other item.  If for some reason you are silly enough to go looking for a fight, I suggest you look for something else though, as this is hardly an optimal weapon.

   The bottom line on this tool is this- The Eat'N Tool is a must for any backpacker, hiker or camper who plans on eating outside of a restaurant or dining room.  It's inexpensive and functional.  Many people carry a spork when venturing outdoors because at some point, everyone needs to eat, so why not have one that fulfills other needs as well- especially if you are very weight conscious on your outings.  The Eat'N Tool may just save you having to carry a multitool as well, provided it's options fit your other gear.

Pros:
Functional design
Compact
Inexpensive

Cons:
No 1/4” wrench
Screwdriver has no reach
Can be slightly awkward to eat with



Gerber Grappler



   For years the Leatherman Crunch has been the only player in the folding, locking plier head category- many other companies like Kershaw and Schrade have tried locking plier tools, but none seemed to be that successful, leaving the Crunch the only one available to anyone needing a locking tool.  Gerber has now thrown their hat in the ring with a locking plier tool, which also incorporates Gerber's traditional sliding head to boot!

   Gerber's challenger is called the Grappler, which, to me at least, conjures up a big muscular wrestler- fitting, because the Grappler is somewhat larger than the Crunch, and built like a brick.... you get the picture.   Luckily the Grappler showed up from www.RockyNational.com just as I was doing some renovations on my house, and I was able to give it a pretty solid workout over it's first week out of the box.  I drove it hard and it didn't disappoint.

   The locking head clamps onto objects very securely- at least with as much force as any other locking pliers I have owned in the past, and adjusts with a small screw in between the handles, making the Grappler a most unique design.  And, the head design still incorporates the anvil style cutters, although I would like to see the replaceable carbide cutters on this model- really, I'd like to see them on all models, but that's just me being greedy!

   The head slides in and out easily- in fact, more easily than any other Gerber I have used, likely because of the increased mass of the head and locking assemble, which all slide into place together.  The head locks in the extended position and is released with a button on the only slider.  I wish the head locked in the closed position too, but that would negate the typical Gerber flicking action to deploy the head. I have found that when stored head down in the sheath, the head usually extends when drawing it, which is handy if you want to use the pliers, but not so much if you want to use any of the other tools as it means you'll need to put the head away first.

   Using the locking plier head isn't as intuitive as with other locking plier designs- since the screw is in the middle rather than on the end as it is with other designs, it can be a bit confusing at first, but after some use I found myself getting used to it.  It's still not as natural as the others, but then I've been using that style for 30+ years, and the Grappler for a few weeks.  Given time, I don't see it as being a problem. 

   The jaws also don't open as wide as the Crunch or other discontinued models, or dedicated locking pliers, but I find that it opens wide enough for everything I used it on.  In fact, the only time I found it didn't open wide enough was when trying to change a shower head.  The Crunch barely managed to lock on to the shower head, but didn't have the leverage to unlock it, and I had to call in an actual pipe wrench to finish the job, so I really don't see that as a failure on the part of the Grappler.

   Despite it's larger than average size, the Grappler has relatively few functions.  Since the plier head takes up all of the interior space, there is only room for other implements on the outside of the handles, similar to the Leatherman Wave or Gerber's Flik.  The first slot is a liner locking, partially serrated, one handed opening blade.  Even after the drywall dust and industrial adhesives the Grappler was subjected to during the renovation, the blade opens smoothly and locks up solid.  It has a nice elongated spear point that I have to say I would appreciate in a folding knife, but I'm not so sure I appreciate in a multitool.  Still, there weren't any fragility issues when I used it to score polystyrene sheets for a tub surround.

   On the opposite side of the same handle is a double sided file with a flathead screwdriver tip, which also locks open- in fact, all the tools use a liner lock mechanism to lock open.  Usually I'm pretty leery of screwdriver tips on files, as a file has to be heat treated very much differently than a screwdriver, so usually one or both suffers.  Long term testing will tell for sure how this performs, but the painted over screws I subjected it to provided a significant amount of resistance, and the screwdriver held up without a problem.

   Opposite the nail file is a combination wire stripper bottle opener and phillips screwdriver all rolled into one.  The wire stripper is the notch type and seems to work about as well as I've ever managed to get one of these types to work.  It's not ideal, but it'll work in a pinch.  The bottle opener is functional, as is the phillips, despite being one of those flattened phillips heads Gerber is known for.  I don't find it all that bad, but others really have issues with it.  Like everything else, it may not be the best, but it is functional when nothing else is available.

   In the last corner is a pry bar with a ruler printed on it.  I had serious misgivings about this pry bar due to pivot points and that stainless is not usually a good material for prying.  However, it pulled small nails and opened paint cans, even those partially sealed with dried paint with no problem at all.  I'd expected it to bend or break during some of the duties I tested it on, but it took everything I threw at it.

   The bottom line on the Grappler is that it is a tough, effective tool, and a decent contender in a very small category.  I think it's about time that someone else decided to give the Crunch some competition, and I can say that the Grappler is as tough as any other tool I have used.  Like any tool it has it's faults, but the Grappler is still a very capable tool.

Pros:
Tough
Locking, sliding plier head
One handed opening, locking implements

Cons:
Jaws don't open as wide as others
Adjustment system not intuitive
Flattened phillips driver


Leatherman h502



   Having done so many different things with their tool line, Leatherman decided a few years ago to get into pocket knives.  However, being Leatherman, they had to do it their own way, and look at knives with tools added, rather than their more typical method of making tools with knife blades on them.  The top dog in this particular line was the now discontinued h502.

   Being the largest in the series, the h502 is a pretty bulky knife- so bulky in fact that it's the only one in the entire series that doesn't include a pocket clip, but rather lives in a nice two tone sheath, like the one issued with the Charge SLV and other special models. 

   The substantial clip point blade opens with a single sided thumb bolt- like many Leatherman multitools, the h502 is not ambidextrous, and the bolt is not moveable, since a left handed orientation would get in the way of the bit driver, which opens Swiss Army Knife-like in a layer next to the main blade.  This problem could have been easily remedied with an opening hole similar to the ones found on the Wave, Charge or Skeletool models, as the blade is easy to reach with the left hand.  A traditional back lock mechanism holds the blade open- a first for Leatherman, but this is such an established lock type that Leatherman's lack of experience with this design is of no concern.

   Next to the main blade as mentioned above is the bit holder, which carries one of Leatherman's typical double ended bits.  Two more double ended bits ride in the thick rubberized handle scale, meaning the h502 is equipped with three flatheads, two phillips and a Torx driver.  Other bits are available from Leatherman, as well as a bit adaptor that allows you to use standard 1/4” bits, but given the bulk of the h502 I see no reason why it couldn't have been issued with standard 1/4” bits, or more options than multiple flatheads.  If you've read a few of my reviews, you know three flatheads on one tool is something I consider to be excessive.  The bit driver also doesn't lock open, so be careful, as certain twisting motions can cause it to fold on your fingers.

   In the opposite end of the same layer is a can opener.  It also doesn't lock open, but it has a decent forward pitch which makes it quite effective for what it does.  The long, wide handle makes it easy to get a grip on, but if you wrap your fingers all the way around it, you'll be lifting on the spine of the blade, which could be uncomfortable on larger or multiple cans.

   On the backside near the lock release button is a litle slider switch that extends the carabiner.  I always thought the carabiner was a bit flimsy, especially when compared to the rest of this robust, oversized knife, but it works well enough.  The gate functions well enough, even if the spring doesn't close it entirely.  It's more than adequate to hold onto a belt loop or the strap on a backpack, but it does rattle a little bit.  The carabiner also functions as a bottle opener, and works well enough in that capacity that I have yet to die of thirst!

   The bottom line on the h502 is that it is a nice, if bulky knife.  It can be found for a decent deal on closeout in various places since it is discontinued, and is a good, functional tool if found for a reasonable price.  The models that replace it though are much more svelte, and so the average user may want to look at one of them, or a more versatile plier based tool, as the h502 is somewhat oversized for the limited options available. 

Pros:
Easy to use, even with gloves on
Lots of screwdriver options
Rubber scales are very comfortable

Cons:
Extremely Bulky
No left handed option
Carabiner feels flimsy and rattles


Buck Metro



   In the most basic definition of the term, the Buck Metro could be considered a “multitool” since it has multiple functions.  Or, at least a dual purpose. 

   Available in several different colors (red, blue, green and black and now in several patterns) the Buck Metro is basically a small keychain knife with a built in bottle opener.  One can’t help but think that Buck could have made a knife and bottle opener in a much smaller package, or that they could have installed more features into the ample frame it does have.  Even an exposed flathead screwdriver would benefit the Metro.

   As far as the small, one handed opening blade goes, it is reasonably functional although there’s really nothing special about it.  At less than an inch long, it is quite non-threatening, so it should be acceptable in just about any environment.

   The main part of the Metro is the bottle opener.  I’d prefer if it had some other function, say as a carabiner or something, but it is just a bottle opener- an extremely large bottle opener.  It is at least functional at that,  but it’s orientation is such that there isn’t a lot of leverage. 

   The bottom line is that the Metro is a nice trinket, suitable for keeping in a drawer or on a desk until it’s needed, but I don’t see it having enough function for an Every Day Carry (EDC) type tool.  It is cute, has a large engraving surface, and bright colors, and might be suitable for a purse or as a corporate gift item, but it is limited.  The blade is too small for most tasks, the bottle opener is a bit awkward to use, and that’s all there is to the Metro.

Pros:
Non Threatening
Nice colors
Good gift item

Cons:
Not a lot of function
Blade is too small
Bottle opener is oriented wrong to be truly useful

End of part 1.

Def

[Grant Lamontagne]

Part 2:

Gerber Octane



   With the modern trend towards minimalist tools and the success of Leatherman's Skeletool which dominates the category, Gerber initially released the Crucial, which met with lukewarm success.  While it was a decent tool, it didn't give much in the way of competition.  This year (2010) Gerber ups their ante with the introduction of the Octane, a tool that incorporates some of the things Gerber does best, along with some great new ideas.

   Thinner than the popular MP400 line, the Octane is about the same length, but with a twist- literally in this case, as with the Skeletool it has been made with better ergonomics than the previous generation straight sided multitools, so it feels much better in the hand.  It's still designed around the sliding head design Gerber is famous for, again showing it's MP400/600 pedigree.  The sliders lock the head open on both handles securely, so even though it is a light tool, it feels like it's capable of moderate duty, unlike the Skeletool with it's very light duty plier head.

   On the outside of the handles the Octane features a one handed opening, liner locking blade with about a 20% serration for cutting into firbous materials like rope.  The blade has a spear point, which seems to be the trend for Gerber these days, and one I am quite content with, as it strikes me as a very good utilitatian type point for a multitool.  Most striking though is the cover that fits over the blade- there was no way to really incorporate it smoothly into the design, so Gerber opted to make it jump out at people, and it's available in red or black.  Very nice idea- it adds some style to something that would otherwise look a bit clunky.

   Opposite the side with the blade, Gerber has incorporated a coupld of small bumps which at first glance may not appear to be much, but in fact are a very effective and unique bottle opener type design.  This design takes up no space on the tool itself, allowing for other features to be incorporated into the fold out tools.  Gerber has thoughtfully included a small icon to point out what these bumps are for, since on earlier, pre-production versions even I, the trained multitool reviewer, thought nothing of it!

   On the same side as the bottle opener, Gerber mounted a pocket clip as well, and I have to say that the Octane is perhaps the most pocketable multitool I have tried- much more so than Leatherman's Skeletool, Charge/Wave or even the SideClip!  Comfort wise, it's on par with the much smaller CRKT L'il Guppie, Leatherman Freestyle and ZillaTool Jr, or many small to medium sized tactical type folding knives.  In fact, I have many tactical folders that are much more uncomfortable to carry on a pocket clip than the Octane, and none of them have any features beyond the knife blade, so I'd choose the Octane over any of them!

   Inside the handles the Octane has a few surprises as well- on the blade side is a small eyeglass screwdriver and a full sized phillips, which should appeal to those folks that dislike the flattened phillips drivers found on many Gerber models.  Also, these drivers have some reach, able to get recessed screws at least 3/4” deep, which should satisfy folks who dislike Gerber's other, shorter screwdrivers found on several other models, like the Flik.

   Tucked away in the other handle is a medium sized flathead screwdriver and an odd shaped blade, designed as it turns out, to combat the bane of the 21st Century consumer- the clam pack.  This small blade is designed to safely slice through the plastic packaging that up to now has proven almost impossible to open without accidentally cutting oneself in the process, and it is quite effective at doing it as well.  Having tested it in front of Gerber's designers, and again outside of controlled conditions, I can say this blade is very useful, and represents only the smallest of threats to the user.  Mark my words, we will see more designs of this type of tool in the future.  Gerber has a head start on this feature by providing this not only on the Octane, but a different design with the same function on the bigger Strata.

   Normally on a small, inexpensive tool like the Octane you would expect some corners to be cut- very reasonable to assume something like that, but I have yet to see any places where the Octane could be significantly improved.  All of the folding implements lock open, the blade with a liner lock and the inner components with a sliding lock similar to the SAF-T-LOK design found on other Gerber models.  The only difference between the Octane's lock mechanism and the other Gerber offerings is the lock handles don't extend around the sides of the tool.  They are still easy to disengage when you want them to, but secure enough that accidental disengagement isn't a concern.

   The bottom line is that Gerber has done just about everything right with the Octane, and if you need an inexpensive, good quality, light weight tool that can perform a decent array of functions, look no further.  The Octane is an exceptional value, and is a tool anyone is likely to actually carry, as it's innocuous enough to be worn even in an office environment. 

Pros:
Compact, inexpensive
Excellent Tool Compliment
Moderate use tool in a light duty package

Cons:
Clam Pack opener blade may be too specialized
Plier head doesn't lock closed
Would prefer replaceable carbide cutters


Utica Kutmaster Rescue Tools



   Recently the knife and tool industry has been leaning more and more towards rescue oriented tools such as Benchmade's ERT-1/Houdini tools, the Victorinox Rescue Tool and more traditional offerings like NOV8's ResQMe tool.  Jumping on the bandwagon is traditional US knifemaker Utica/Kutmaster with their latest rescue tools.

   These knives come in two sizes, the larger being the more complex of the two offerings.  Both feature one handed opening, liner locking tanto pointed blades that snap open and lock up solidly, as one would expect from even a lower cost tactical type knife, and these rescue knives don't disapoint.    The blades on each knife open up with a dual thumb stud, meaning they can both be opened by right or left handed people.  Another great feature included in these knives, which you don't see on enough knives in my opinion, is an adjustable pivot screw.  Too many knives, especially those at lower price points are riveted together so the tension of the blade can't be adjusted- with the Utica/Kutmaster rescue knives, the blades can be adjusted with a couple of Torx bits.  Both knives also feature belt cutting grooves, with razor sharp blades tucked inside, ready to slice clothing or seatbelt material in an instant.

   Both knives also have glass breakers, but this is where the differences start- the smaller knife has a standard hardened point on the butt of the handle, similar to almost every other glass breaker on the market- simple and effective.  The larger model has two points on opposite sides of a 1/4” socket adaptor.  While I haven't tested this yet (my neighbors are light sleepers!) I would imagine two points of contact would still shatter a car's side window with relative ease in an emergency situation.

   Going along with the 1/4” bit adapter in the butt of the knife, the larger rescue knife also has a unique bit storage unit on the side that carries two double ended bits.  This is a concept that has been done in a number of different knives and multitools, all with varying success, and I have to say, that the Kutmaster probably has the best system that both keeps the bits securely in place, but also allows for easy access to them.  In between the two bits is a slider that pushes one way to eject the double sided flathead bit, or slides the other way to eject the double ended Phillips bit.  It's a simple concept, but works very well. The only drawback, and this is a slight one in my opinion, is that it makes the handle somewhat bulky.  Holding the knife in the right hand means that the bit carrier is on the “outside” of the knife, away from the palm, and is therefore barely noticeable by your finger tips when holding the knife, and in a left handed or reverse right handed grip, the bit carrier seems to fit snugly in the hollow of your palm, in fact making the grip feel slightly more secure. 

   The larger model also features a pocket clip, an option that is sadly missing from the smaller model.

   All in all, I like these knives, but there are a few drawbacks that need to be pointed out.  The belt cutters don't seem to be all that sharp, and therefore lose a certain amount of effectriveness.  They also aren't replaceable, which is a real drawback as a small blade locked in an enclosed frame like this is virtually impossible to sharpen effectively.  As a result, this feature is virtually worthless on these knives.

   I also likely am not going to carry the smaller version as it has no suitable carry methods on it.  There's no pocket clip, no carabiner and no sheath- maybe I'm just spoiled by all the other offerings these days, and I suppose it would be ok if your car or uniform had a suitable pocket or storage spot built in, but don't count on it to carry itself so to speak.

   My other big issue with these rescue knives is that the tanto point is not terribly well suited to rescue operations.  Sure the tip is strong for light prying duties, but you are more likely to stab or cut anyone strapped in rather than rescue them when you use the main blade to cut through the belts or webbing holding them back, or when trying to cut away clothing to provide emergency medical services.  Many of you are going to point out that this is what the belt cutter is for, but since the belt cutter is almost non-functional on this tool, the main blade is really your only option, and it's potentially dangerous.

   While this knife scores some great points, I would consider it more of a tactical/utility blade more than a rescue blade.  I'd like to see the cutter blade improved and a sheep's foot or reverse tanto type blade on this model in the future, and I think this knife could be a serious contender- especially at this price.

Pros:
Solid construction
Bit carrier on larger model is a great design
Price point- both models come in under $20

Cons:
Tanto point better for tactical knives, not rescue knives
Belt cutter not that sharp, and not replaceable
No pocket clip on smaller model

End of Part Two.

Def

[Grant Lamontagne]

Part 3:

Gerber Strata



   Form should follow function in a tool, and yet “pretty” tools seem to sell better.  Gerber took that to heart when designing the Strata- it is certainly pretty enough to sit alongside Gerbers fashion models like the Suspension and Resolve, and yet it's tough enough to have a place on any handyman's belt.  Even I dismissed this one initially, as it seems a bit fancy at first look, but given how many times I've been wrong before, I decided to give this one a closer look.  The folks at www.RockyNational.com were only too happy to help me out.

   The Strata is actually a very impressive tool.  It forgoes Gerber's traditional sliding head type pliers for butterfly opening pliers.  Once unfolded, the pliers are sprung so the jaws open by themselves, which takes some getting used to, but saves a lot of fatigue during use.  A good idea, and is usually for some reason only available on cheaper, lower quality tools.

   As with almost all multitools, the Strata also includes wire cutters, only in the Strata's case they are anvil style, replaceable carbide cutters.  I don't think better cutters are available in a multitool, and this is one thing Gerber is famous for.  I'd like to see this feature on more models, and indeed it's such an effective system that Leatherman adopted a similar system in the SuperTool 300 and MUT tools.

   Tools on the Strata are accessible from the outside, meaning you don't have to open the pliers to get at them.  Additionally, all tools lock open, and include the typical Gerber lock systems which raises the tools out of the handle to allow easier access to them.  Unlike the lock tabs on many other Gerber models, the ones on the Strata do not protrude, but are cunningly incorporated into the overall design of the handles.  This is a nice feature, but I would like to see some more aggressive grip pattern on them, as they are very stiff and sometimes difficult to disengage, and almost impossible if you are wearing gloves or your hands are wet.

   In one handle the Strata features a one handed opening, partially serrated blade with a nice spear point, a combination can and bottle opener, large flathead screwdriver and scissors.  Nestled into the opposite handle is a small wood saw, combination small flathead screwdriver and clamshell package opener, phillips screwdriver and double sided file.

   Most of the implements are typical Gerber fare- the scissors for example are Fiskars type scissors, which is only natural since Fiskars owns Gerber.  The bottle opener and can opener work well enough, although won't be replacing pull top cans or twist off caps any time soon.  Most notably are the tools on the second handle- the phillips is a full phillips, not the flattened version that folks seem to greatly dislike, and the small screwdriver/clam pack opening tool is brilliant- a solution to a problem that is a lot more prevalent than folks seem to think, and is likely going to be seen on a lot more tools in the future.

   The saw is a bit on the short side, but good enough in a pinch- I prefer a longer saw, but if I'm planning to need a saw, I'll bring a dedicated one with me.  The file is a bit of an odd shape- at first you think it's just a cost cutting measure to stick one in around the cutout for the plier head, but Gerber designers pointed out to us that it has been designed not only to fit in that space, but to also fit in smaller areas where most multitool files won't fit, which is why the texturing goes all the way to the very tip.  Good thinking Gerber!

   A quick word on the scissors- they are fantastic in use, but I don't care for scissors that need to be stored in the open position, and the Strata is a perfect example of why.  With many designs, like that on the Leatherman Blast, the blades are contained inside the handles, so if they are folded improperly it's not as big a deal.  With the Strata, the scissors need to be opened 180 degrees, then folded into the handle, but if the user isn't careful when doing it, there is a chance that the tip of one of the scissor blades can be left protruding from the handle, which could result in a decent cut to your hand or fingers the next time you pick it up.  I found this out the hard way, but fortunately not too hard as I just got a small scratch.  It's a minor concern that can be solved by paying a little bit of attention, but still worth noting.

   The bottom line on the Strata is that it is a long time in coming, but it is done right- something Gerber has been working towards, but never got quite right until now.  The Strata is a good looking and good quality multitool for someone who wants it all.

Pros:
Looks good
Good tool compliment
Good quality

Cons:
Lock release can be difficult
Saw is a little short
Scissor folding problem


CRKT Ta-Bar Tool



   Sometimes the simplest designs are the best, which explains the myriad of one piece tools on the market these days.  The Ta-Bar Tool follows that example in spirit if not in form.  Technically it has more than one piece in the design, and is somewhat larger than the average one piece tool like Atwood's Prybaby, Gerber's Shard or Raker's Ring Tool.  However, it does fit the pattern of a basic prybar, bottle opener and a few other functions rolled into one basic piece of steel like the others.

   At first glance the Ta-Bar Tool is nothing more than a pry bar with a bottle opener cut into it- something every tradesman should have in my experience!  The pry bar has a substantial notch cut into it for pulling nails, and it's also got a slight edge inside which is handy for cutting twine and is also effective for slicing open clamshell packages- the bane of the 21st century consumers.

   After extensive testing, I can also attest to how well the bottle opener works, but by mutual consent, the details of that testing phase are classified.  Suffice it to say, it does what a bottle opener should- it opens bottles.

   In addition to the bottle opener and prybar functions, the Ta-Bar Tool also has a 1/4” wrench which can be used by itself to loosen stubborn computer case screws, or in conjunction with the double ended screwdriver bit nestled in the body of the Ta-Bar Tool.  The double ended screwdriver has both a flathead and phillps end which is typical for an EDC type tool.  Because it has to tuck into the body of the tool it's fairly short, but you shouldn't have too much trouble reaching in to get screws recessed up to about ¾ of an inch deep which is not bad for a multitool- many more expensive tools don't have that kind of reach.  Plus, since it's a standard 1/4” wrench, it should fit any 1/4” bit, which can be obtained almost anywhere, so if you find yourself needing different types of bits (Torx, Posi-drive, Robertson etc) or different lengths, then you can carry those along too.  Because the bit is held at 90 degrees to the main body of the Ta-Bar Tool it works as a T-shank type screwdriver, allowing for a significant amount of torque to be applied as well.

   While this next feature may be controversial in it's usefulness, it is there nonetheless- under a molded plastic cover is a very sharp chisel ground blade, similar in shape to a box cutter or utility blade.  Did I mention it was sharp?  Out of the box this thing cuts like a razor blade and should be very easy to maintain due to the flat grind.  It also has a very sharp point which is very handy for marking or boring holes, but may be somewhat fragile- I haven't wanted to risk the nice tip by subjecting it to any torture tests!  Suffice it to say, you should probably not use this knife to stab any armored individuals if you want to keep it in good shape! 

   The controversy comes from whether or not the sheath will hold on to the blade well enough when using the opposite end of the tool as a pry bar.  If it isn't then the user could end up with a significant cut to their hands.  The edge, in case I haven't mentioned this previously, is very sharp, and adding pressure when prying, couples with even a small slip or sheath failure could result in serious injury.  However, the Ta-Bar Tool is designed for light prying, and this should be kept in mind when using it.  If you feel you are putting significant pressure on the Ta-Bar Tool during use, put it away and get a dedicated pry bar.

   Along the spine of the Ta-Bar Tool is a small ruler with inches on one side and centimeters on the other.  It measures up to 3 inches or ten centimeters, which can come in handy for things like writing a review of the Ta-Bar tool when you forgot your tape measure and calipers.  I don't usually use the ruler function on any multitools, but the few times I have, I have appreciated that they were there, and the Ta-Bar is no exception.

   The sheath itself is little more than a plastic cover- it's a pancake style sheath, with two thin layers of a kydex-like plastic molded over it and rivete together on three sides.  It's a bit bulky, and has no clip or loop of any kind for carry/mounting purposes.  The hollow rivets are handy in that you could use some paracord to strap it to something or create your own belt loop, and it looks similar enough to many neck knife type sheaths to make you think you could carry it on a lanyard around your neck.  I wouldn't suggest this as an option as the sheath does not hold the Ta-Bar Tool securely enough for upside down carry, and a sudden  jolt could cause you to lose it.

   The bottom line here is that the Ta-Bar Tool is an inexpensive tool that can be very effective under the right circumstances.  I can see the benefits of this tool for a contractor or do-it-yourself-er as it combines a number of useful tools that are versatile and easy to access and use.  As with any multitool, you shouldn't expect the Ta-Bar Tool to replace a strap cutter, box cuter, pry bar, measuring tape and screwdriver, but it can be used for quick jobs that don't warrant crossing the room to the toolbox.  When used within it's capacity, and based on it's suggested retail price (under $20) I see no reason why everyone shouldn't have a Ta-Bar Tool.

Pros:
Lightweight, compact, inexpensive
Blade is the sharpest I've ever encountered on a multitool
Excellent tool compliment

Cons:
Potential for slippage/injury
Lack of Carry Options
Screwdriver Bit can be difficult to remove/replace in carrier

I'll try and get pics for these in the next few days and get them posted, provided you guys don't have any corrections or questions I need to address first?

Def

[zepla]

That's great work Def, thanks! 

[Mr. Whippy]

 

That says just about everything...

I await the additional pics. 

[Zed]

very nice work Def  i wondered if those little buck metro's was any good, 

[donvito]

Great additions Def, MT.O is expanding

[ryan1835]

nice reviews on the gerbers!

the only thing thats a bit weird is you say you dislike the spear tipped knife on the grappler and like it on the octane XD (i pressume theres something more different on them then this?)

do you know when uk'ers can expect to see the octane and for how much?

cheers def

[Grant Lamontagne]

The spear points are different on each model- once I get some pictures taken and do the reviews up right you'll see that!  This post was just an advance look at the reviews for forum users, and isn't complete yet.

As for pricing and availability info, that changes almost constantly from country to country, so I really don't have that info.  It has been my experience, both in my own purchases and from reading here on the forums that you are probably best off to order from someone in the US, as the pricing and availability is better.

Zed- the Metro is cute, but I wouldn't want to count on it as a serious tool.

And, for those keeping score, when these are posted, it will bring the number of reviews on the main site to 144!  I dare you to find a more comprehensive multitool review site anywhere!

Or, as I said before, this makes Multitool.org gross!

Def

[Smitty44]

Great job Def,really like that Ta-bar,does it show inch's on the other side??
 &

[parnass]

Good work, Def.     

The handle on my H502 doesn't hold the screwdriver bits securely so I keep them in the in bit holder in the belt holster.

My wife scored a few Buck Metros on sale for $3/each a couple of years ago and bought them to give away as gifts. You're correct about the blade being so small.  The blade lock on some of the Metros failed to engage reliably when opening the blade unless you were careful to open the blade fully.

[Gareth]

Great work boss.   You've got me wanting to spend money anyway.

[Grant Lamontagne]

Great job Def,really like that Ta-bar,does it show inch's on the other side??
 &

Yes it does- there will be more/better pictures when I get these posted properly.  Meanwhile I've completed two more reviews that I'll try and get posted tomorrow. 

Def

[Grant Lamontagne]

Here's a couple more reviews I wrote in the last week.  Again, I need to get some actual photos done before putting them on the main site, but I thought you guys might want to look at them anyway.

Blackhawk HawkHook



   Having never handled any Blackhawk tools or knives I wasn't sure what to expect when I ordered the HawkHook.  At an MSRP of about $40, I figured it was worth a shot, and I'm glad I decided to.

   As of this writing I have yet to save anyone with it from a mangled car wreck, but I will say that this is indeed a decently made tool.  In fact, it reminds me a lot of the Boker RESCOM designed by Chad Los Banos, not only because of the similar size and function, but also because it has a very similar design.  While the RESCOM is based off a knife platform, the HawkHook is, at least as far as I've been able to tell, a standalone design, and incorporates a few added features over the RESCOM.

   The HawkHook is basically a frame lock type folding knife, with what initially appears to be a g-10 handles scale on one side (further inspection reveals it to be a molded plastic) and a bead blasted steel frame on the other, with the integrated liner type lock and a skeletonized pocket clip.  It's fairly small, but it locks up securely when opened with the ambidextrous thumb stud.  Opening action is smooth and the blade makes a solid snap when locked into place- after hundreds of “flicks” I have yet to have a single instance where the blade didn't open entirely, and the lock didn't engage.  Lefties may have a problem with the HawkHook, as the pocket clip can get in the way of the ambidextrous thumb stud, and there are no places to relocate the pocket clip to, although it can be removed altogether.  I'd still like to see a couple of holes drilled and tapped on the opposite end of the handles to allow for different carry methods, and to move the pocket clip out of the way for left handed users.

   The blade on the HawkHook is AUS-8A which was a premium steel a few years ago, and while there are supposedly better steels out there, I have never had an issue with AUS-8A.  It works well enough for any application I have used it for, and I see no reason to expect any problems with it here.  Incorporated into the blade section is a hooked strap cutting edge, a serrated edge, flathead screwdriver, glass breaker, bottle opener, and what appears to be some kind of wire stripper notch.  While I expect almost no functionality to the wire stripper, the other features seem well thought out.

   I often wonder why all rescue type tools seem to incorporate a bottle opener.  Is it a tip of the hat to rescue workers- a way for the manufacturers to “buy” them a drink as a thanks for the work they do?  Or is it an insinuation that the stress of rescue work drives first responders to drink?  Or, is it simple an easy tool to incorporate in pretty well any tool, and is a cheap way to add features without increasing cost?  Whatever the reason, this bottle opener functions well enough, and that's really what's important.

   At the very tip of the HawkHook is a flathead screwdriver, which seems solid enough for light prying duties.  I would consider it useful for only very light duties, as the pivot pin is not large enough to withstand any serious pressure, even though it appears that the blade could stand a more reasonable amount.  If Blackhawk wants this to compete with other Rescue Tools on the market, I'd consider a pivot pin about twice the thickness of the current one.  In a Rescue/Survival situation where one is relying on this tool, I doubt the user will be worried too much about the limitations and may end up breaking it at a very inopportune time.  As a screwdriver, it seems a little wide.  It is good for larger flathead screws, and has withstood the reasonable amount of torque I have subjected it to without any twisting or slippage.

   Glass breakers generally come in one of two types- the spring loaded glass breaker like the Benchmade Houdini or INOV8's ResQMe tool or an in-line point like the Victorinox Rescue Tool or the Utica/Kutmaster Rescue Knives.  This is one of the places where the HawkHook stands out, as it actually incorporates a hammer style glass breaker.  With many striker type glass breakers the user runs the risk of dangerous cuts to the hand and forarm as there's a significant chance they will come in contact with shards of glass, especially if too much force is used.  The nice thing about a hammer style is that it takes the user's hands out of the direct line of force that is being used to shatter the glass.  Usually however the hammer style has some weight in the head so that the force is transferred to the glass on the point of impact, but the HawkHook has very little weight to transfer and as a result may not be as effective.  I will have to perform further tests to determine how functional this ability actually is.

   As with the RESCOM, the HawkHook uses a serrated blade leading into the belt cutting hook as a combination type cutter.  Each has the ability to perform on it's own, but when used together they make a very effective belt cutting team.  The serrated edge bites into the belt and leads the edges into the hook which finishes it off.  This is a very effective system that I would like to see on more tools in the future.

   The Bottom Line for the HawkHook is this- if you are a paremedic/EMT/firefighter/police officer or other first responder type of professional, you likely have other, better tools available to you.  If that's the case, then you don't need the HawkHook, although I usually prefer to have my own tools handy in addition to issue equipment.  You never suffer from having too many options.  The real value to a tool like the HawkHook is to the individual, especially if you spend any significant amount of time driving or around any kind of heavy equipment, as having a tool handy- any tool really, but especially one designed as a rescue tool- can literally make the difference between life and death.  As an EDC type tool however, the HawkHook isn't recommended as it's actual use in day to day tasks is quite limited.  It isn't designed for that though, so that should come as no surprise.  My suggestion for the HawkHook is to get it and clip it to the sun visor of your car and forget about it until you need it.

Pros:

Well made
Compact
Good array of functions for a compact tool

Cons:

Awkward for left hand use
Expensive compared to peers
Needs bigger pivot pin

ScrewPop 4 In 1 Tool



   Some ideas are so simple and straightforward you just have to smack yourself in the forehead for not thinking of it yourself.  The ScrewPop tool is one of those ideas- basically a bottle opener with a built in screwdriver- a must for any technical student!

   The main body of the ScrewPop tool is the bottle opener- the ring is large enough to hang from your keys and not be bulky, or, perhaps more importantly, not let your keys get in the way during delicate bottle opening operations.  The large mouth accepts both twist off caps and non-twist offs with ease, and the shaft provides just enough leverage to get even older tops off quickly and easily.

   In the shaft is where the ScrewPop differs from most dollar store or promotional type bottle openers- inside is a double ended screwdriver bit, held in by a small ball and detent system.  The bit itself has a phillips and flathead end, which should handle most of the screws you are likely to encounter.  Since it's a standard 1/4” bit though, it can be substituted for any other standard bits you may prefer to carry, or can function nicely with almost any bit kit.



   The bit adaptor also functions as a handy 1/4” wrench, which can come in handy for computer case screws as well as holding screwdriver bits.  The bottle opener head provides a decent amount of grip for turning stubborn screws, and the design lends itself to the possibility of adding more torque by putting some kind of bar through the open head for leverage.

   While the screwdriver/bottle opener combo is simplistic, it is not unique- I find myself comparing it to Columbia River's Get-A-Way Driver, which also fits into this category.  The Get-A-Way Driver features four single ended screwdriver bits, bottle opener and a small LED, along with a carabiner, allowing it to be quickly separated from your keys for use.  However, the bits are small compared to the ScrewPop tool, and as a result the ScrewPop has more reach for recessed screws.



   The Bottom Line is the ScrewPop is a handy little tool that is inexpensive enough to get one for everyone you know, and small enough that no one will realize they are carrying it until they need it, at which point they will silently thank you for providing it.  It's a simple design with simple construction, and has held up quite well to the extensive testing I have done with it- admittedly a good percentage of that has been on the bottle opener, but since it's the primary tool I didn't want to overlook it!

Pros:

Lightweight
Inexpensive
Functional/Adaptable

Cons:

Keys could get in the way of screwdriver function
Not as functional as other tools in this category
Bottle opener head is a bit bulky



Enjoy!  

Def

[donvito]

Lefties may have a problem with the HawkHook, as the pocket clip can get in the way of the ambidextrous pocket clip, and there are no places to relocate the pocket clip to, although it can be removed altogether.

If it has a fixed location, but can be removed how does it make it mabidextrous Guess it's a typo. Great review Def, I've been eying the HawkHook for a while now, wish they made an orange one

[zepla]

Just wondering Def, you say in the Screwpop review in the end at the pro/con section "Not as functional as other tools in this category" Which are more functional in you opinion in this category? I guess there is not much in this category, other one piece tools are usually much more expensive.

Btw, great review as always 

[Grant Lamontagne]

Donvito-  It's not fixed, it's screwed in, but there are no other screw holes to relocate it to, so if you remove it, it's just removed, unless you drill/tap your own holes.

Zepla- With a tool that simplistic I was reaching for cons- my pattern is to always provide three pros and three cons so it stays balanced and objective.  With some tools I'm really reaching to find three good things or three bad things, and in this case that was the best I managed.  I put it in the same class as the CRKT Get-A-Way Driver since they are both keychain type bottle opener/screwdriver tools.  Compared to the Get-A-Way Driver (God I hate that name!) the ScrewPop comes up short as the CRKT has twice as many screwdriver options, a carabiner, an LED light and can be used in the 90 degree position as well as straight.  Of course the Get-A-Way Driver retails for $20 while the ScrewPop retails for $5, but when you consider that most of us buy these things online and shipping costs need to be added, there really isn't much difference- especially when you look at a $5 tool that will sell for $5, and a $20 tool you are likely to get for $12.  Basically both tools can be had for pocket change, and so I feel the little bit extra money is justified by the extra function of the Get-A-Way Driver.

But, by all means, keep the questions coming!

Def

[donvito]

Donvito-  It's not fixed, it's screwed in, but there are no other screw holes to relocate it to, so if you remove it, it's just removed, unless you drill/tap your own holes.

Guess it was a typo on your end, did you mean an ambidextrous thumb stud?

[Grant Lamontagne]

Yup- that's what I meant!  Fixed now! 

Def

[donvito]

Yup- that's what I meant!  Fixed now! 

Def

Great review Def, didn't mean to bust your chaps

[Grant Lamontagne]

No problem- that's why I posted it here in the first place! 

Def

[zepla]

Donvito-  It's not fixed, it's screwed in, but there are no other screw holes to relocate it to, so if you remove it, it's just removed, unless you drill/tap your own holes.

Zepla- With a tool that simplistic I was reaching for cons- my pattern is to always provide three pros and three cons so it stays balanced and objective.  With some tools I'm really reaching to find three good things or three bad things, and in this case that was the best I managed.  I put it in the same class as the CRKT Get-A-Way Driver since they are both keychain type bottle opener/screwdriver tools.  Compared to the Get-A-Way Driver (God I hate that name!) the ScrewPop comes up short as the CRKT has twice as many screwdriver options, a carabiner, an LED light and can be used in the 90 degree position as well as straight.  Of course the Get-A-Way Driver retails for $20 while the ScrewPop retails for $5, but when you consider that most of us buy these things online and shipping costs need to be added, there really isn't much difference- especially when you look at a $5 tool that will sell for $5, and a $20 tool you are likely to get for $12.  Basically both tools can be had for pocket change, and so I feel the little bit extra money is justified by the extra function of the Get-A-Way Driver.

But, by all means, keep the questions coming!

Def

Thanks for the reply. Makes totally sence 

[BIG-TARGET]

I'm partial to the CRK&T tool eatin tool

[nuphoria]

I'm partial to the CRK&T tool eatin tool

I like the look of it but I'm quite sure I would end up piercing my tongue or something 


Thanks for all the hard work Grant 

[asupernothing]

The top dog in this particular line was the now discontinued h502.

   Being the largest in the series, the h502 is a pretty bulky knife- so bulky in fact that it's the only one in the entire series that doesn't include a pocket clip,

just a silly question, the h502 is the same size as the h503 and k502/503 correct?

[DaveK]

The top dog in this particular line was the now discontinued h502.

   Being the largest in the series, the h502 is a pretty bulky knife- so bulky in fact that it's the only one in the entire series that doesn't include a pocket clip,

just a silly question, the h502 is the same size as the h503 and k502/503 correct?

That's right - the K502/3 has the better 154CM blade steel, and some aluminium where the H502/3 has rubber....

Have a look here if you haven't already

[Multitaskertools]

talk about deceptive markings - those are OBVIOUSLY Chinese knives from Yangjiang, I know I've seen enough of em 

[Grant Lamontagne]

They say China on the opposite side of the blades.





I don't believe they are trying to suggest falsely that the knives are US made, just trying to point out that Utica Cutlery is still US owned.  Besides, at the price of these, you wouldn't get any knife made in the US.

Def

[cgk]

DEF- Thank-you for the reviews.

[Grant Lamontagne]

No problem- One of these days I'll get the photos done and get them posted on the main site.  I also have another couple of tools to review to add to the list.

We'll be hitting the 200  mark soon!

Def