Finally got the Mini Tool

Grant Lamontagne · **on:** October 19, 2006, 12:16:36 AM

I've already added it to the Comparative Weight Chart, and I'll be putting together a review of it as soon as I get around to it and a number of other things on my "to-do" list! For now I just wanted to say a few things about it.

On the "cool" scale this thing is at least an 8. It was a really neat idea at the time, but like this guy:

it didn't fly. Despite the cool factor, it's obvious why this one failed. The Mini Tool is just barely a multi with only a bottle opener, can opener, screwdriver and blade in it. Of course the side of the screwdriver is crosscut for use as a file. The pliers are full sized, and the tools, while not locking, are indeed secure when opened. These are the good points. The bad points are they full sized, needle nose pliers that stick out ever so slightly when the tool is folded closed, and the fact that while closed, it's almost as bulky as a full sized multi.

While I wouldn't suggest one of these for the heavy tool user, I do think that the Mini Tool is indispensable for the collector as it is a very fascinating part of what we have come to call the "Evolution of the Multitool."

Really neat doodad, but I don;t think it'll see much pocket time or use.

Def

prime77 · **Reply #1 on:** October 19, 2006, 12:24:27 AM

I found one last Sunday at an Ace Hardware store around where I live. I argree it's one of the coolest tools around. Most hardware stores where I live don't have a great selection of Knives and Multitools but this one had them all. A great Victorinox and Leatherman selection. I got the last Minitool. ;D

Grant Lamontagne · **Reply #2 on:** October 19, 2006, 01:12:38 AM

I was actually in a plant store a few days ago looking for a bug remedy for my peppers and found out completely by accident that they sell Leathermans! I managed to leave quickly without buying one, but I drive by there at least three times a week and I don;t think my willpower can hold out too long!

Def

J-sews · **Reply #3 on:** October 19, 2006, 01:42:45 AM

I agree with Def, the Mini Tool is a must have for the collector, but not the best choice for EDC duties.

Historically speaking, it's interesting to note that the Mini was Tim Leatherman's second tool on the market, patented only five years after the original PST was introduced.

Grant Lamontagne · **Reply #4 on:** October 19, 2006, 02:43:20 AM

That is cool Bob- got any more patent forms handy? Might be neat to see what the others have specifically patented.

Def

J-sews · **Reply #5 on:** October 19, 2006, 02:56:37 AM

Quote from: Defender on October 19, 2006, 02:43:20 AM

That is cool Bob- got any more patent forms handy? Might be neat to see what the others have specifically patented.

Def

Special Multi Tool Patent article coming right up!

J-sews · **Reply #6 on:** October 19, 2006, 03:02:34 AM

Back to the Mini Tool though:
Notice that it didn't reach production exactly as originally designed. See that pointy #58 thing near the upper right? It's supposed to be a "partial Phillips scredriver." And the #54 tab on the other handle was to be a flat head screwdriver.

Neither feature made it to the final design.

Fred · **Reply #7 on:** October 23, 2006, 02:55:50 AM

Any idea why they didn't make it?They dont look like they would be a cost thing

J-sews · **Reply #8 on:** October 24, 2006, 03:52:47 AM

Quote from: Fred on October 23, 2006, 02:55:50 AM

Any idea why they didn't make it?They dont look like they would be a cost thing

My only guess is that it had something to do with metalurgy. Multi tool handles are made from "soft" stainless steel, so they can be stamped and formed into the proper shape. Screwdrivers need to be made from harder grades of steel, so they do not bend or wear out quickly.

The screwdriver tips on the patent drawings would have been too soft, and it's probably a wise move on Leatherman's part to leave them off the final product.

CacherX4 · **Reply #9 on:** October 24, 2006, 04:07:58 AM

Bob...I am humbled in your presence...my brain is starting to hurt from all the information I am getting on this site.

jmm1974 · **Reply #10 on:** October 24, 2006, 10:09:27 PM

Bob, the more i read your post the more i think you should really write a book you just have so much crammed into your brain you need to let some out. think about it. just dont stop educating us while you do it.
James

J-sews · **Reply #11 on:** October 25, 2006, 02:50:31 AM

Thanks guys, but like I've said before, I'm holding out for at least a seven-figure book deal.

Grant Lamontagne · **Reply #12 on:** October 25, 2006, 03:02:41 AM

With some of the figures around here I don;t know if that's such a good idea!

Def

CacherX4 · **Reply #13 on:** October 25, 2006, 03:06:26 AM

Let me start then...I figure it would be a good idea that you write it O0

Only 6 more figures needed now!!!

665ae · **Reply #14 on:** October 25, 2006, 03:55:36 AM

I figure it'd be a pretty interesting read...

5 more to go!

J-sews · **Reply #15 on:** October 26, 2006, 02:03:21 AM

Okay, okay, I give up!

But here's the deal: I'll continue to post stuff here for you guys to proof read, and for all of us to discuss. Then, someday when we have enough material on site, it can all be compiled into a book titled "The DEFinitive Encyclopedia of Multi Tools." (Because DEF will be our Editor-in-Chief of course.)

With a title like that, it will no doubt be a runaway best seller!

Grant Lamontagne · **Reply #16 on:** October 26, 2006, 02:27:40 AM

Only because everyone will run away from it if it's associated with me!

Def

CacherX4 · **Reply #17 on:** October 26, 2006, 02:56:54 AM

I'd buy it

colubrid · **Reply #18 on:** October 30, 2006, 02:58:45 PM

I only buy books with lots of pictures and funny stories..

Sea Monster · **Reply #19 on:** January 15, 2008, 12:01:33 PM

I get the idea the mini had lots of Timmeh's original concepts and ideas that he went through on his way to the Leatherman Tool (or PST)

They were cut or scrapped at some point in the design process, but he was fond of them enough to try to bring them up once he had some spare resources in the wake of his success - unfortunately it seems they were ideas best left behind with what is no doubt countless other archived concepts he conceptualised early on.

I might head to the Leathermanlibrary and see if any design cues for the Mini Tool can be seen in the Mr Crunch folder.

Grant Lamontagne · **Reply #20 on:** January 15, 2008, 03:06:12 PM

As with the PST I get the feeling that he had much more in mind with the original design of the MiniTool, but for various reasons, the design was dumbed down for production.

Def

Sea Monster · **Reply #21 on:** January 15, 2008, 09:21:26 PM

Sounds like it's time for him to take a brief break from flapping around the planet in his private jet to release a line of Tim Leatherman Originals with his personal designs of yesteryear.

Sea Monster · **Reply #22 on:** January 19, 2008, 01:24:13 AM

I just realised the Mini come with a split ring for lanyard attachment. Were any other tools packaged with a split ring, or was it a specific effort with the mini?

J-sews · **Reply #23 on:** January 19, 2008, 06:13:41 AM

Quote from: Nomad on January 19, 2008, 01:24:13 AM

I just realised the Mini come with a split ring for lanyard attachment. Were any other tools packaged with a split ring, or was it a specific effort with the mini?

The Micra came (comes?) with a split ring attached. Can't think of any others but the Mini where it was just tossed in.

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Finally got the Mini Tool

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