Why aren't more tools outside accessible?

[holder228]

I always wondered why more MT's don't follow the Swisstool's approach and have all of the tools accessible from the outside. I wonder if it's more of a structural integrity thing or it's better for keeping grip out of the MT. Nothing against the Swisstool, but i couldn't see myself carrying it's shiny polished chrome on a job site like i do my beater wave

[Lynn LeFey]

I always wondered why more MT's don't follow the Swisstool's approach and have all of the tools accessible from the outside. I wonder if it's more of a structural integrity thing or it's better for keeping grip out of the MT. Nothing against the Swisstool, but i couldn't see myself carrying it's shiny polished chrome on a job site like i do my beater wave

Because Victorinox bought Bear and Sons to acquire the patent required to make that outside access tool.

There are only so many ways to do outside access tools, and I guess they're all patented... or terrible.

[ReamerPunch]

There are a few.
Leatherman OHT, Squirt series, Style PS and CS
Gerber Suspension, Legend 700 and 800, Flik, Strata, MP1, Crucial, Balance
Ganzo multi-tools
SOG PowerAccess, PowerPint, PowerLitre, Sync
CRKT Technician
Dewalt MT
Havalon Evolve

[Vidar]

Because Victorinox bought Bear and Sons to acquire the patent required to make that outside access tool.

There are only so many ways to do outside access tools, and I guess they're all patented... or terrible.

I would think that patent is expired by now as it is more than 20 years old?

Either way there are alternative ways to most ends - they might be more costly though - or patented or terrible

[gregpost]

 I think the finishing and tools on the Spirit is fantastic. It feels excellent and precise, like it's made by a nation of watchmakers, cause it is! But I think the design itself is overrated.

No OHO, some tools are harder to get out than on some multitools that clump, you needs nails for some tools vs. just using any part of your thumb or finger, sometimes you have to flip around the tool to find the correct side. I saw a dude on youtube scratch "blade" into the handle side with the knife out of precaution and frustration.

 I think the Spirit is made fantastically and even at the price it sells for is worth the money because it's one of the few things in the multitool world that's worth every penny. The design fits many people's needs, especially those who carry a separate knife/folder but it's by no means close to a perfect design.

[ToolJoe]

The Spirit is a keeper for me. I have put mine through the ringer (shiny finish and all) and it always comes back for more. The outside accessible tools sealed the deal for me. It cleans up real well for special occasions real well also.