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Tool Talk => Swiss Army Knights Forum => Topic started by: Grand_Banana on April 07, 2024, 12:13:29 AM

Title: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on April 07, 2024, 12:13:29 AM
Hi awl,

I am planning an Explorer 30 day challenge for May 2024.  Who’s coming with me, man? 

Unless I am taking part in a challenge, the Explorer is my primary SAK.  I think it is the perfect combination of tools for my daily needs.  I even use the mag lens!  At 4 layers it isn’t too bulky or heavy to ride nicely in the pocket.

Im not sure the rationale for the model name, but for me, the toolset exemplifies what an explorer needs in a pocket knife.  An explorer likely already has a legend fixed blade, saw, hatchet, etc., on his pack leaving this SAK to round it all out.

If anyone’s interested, please sign up and join me on the adventure!
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: MTSAK on April 07, 2024, 12:18:05 AM
I'd love to but the Micra challenge is already scheduled for May.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: nate j on April 07, 2024, 01:57:44 AM
I’ll probably join.

I’m pretty sure Marketing gets to name the models, and that they do so on the basis of “whatever sounds cool that we think will help us sell the most SAKs”.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: marlowe221 on April 07, 2024, 02:08:24 AM
I love the Explorer! But a trip to London in May is probably going to put me out of a challenge, unfortunately.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on April 07, 2024, 02:17:02 AM
I love the Explorer! But a trip to London in May is probably going to put me out of a challenge, unfortunately.

Follow along if you can! Is the Explorer too much knife for London (or is it a flight carryon only kind of issue)?

I'd love to but the Micra challenge is already scheduled for May.

No worries  :cheers:

I’ll probably join.

I’m pretty sure Marketing gets to name the models, and that they do so on the basis of “whatever sounds cool that we think will help us sell the most SAKs”.

 :cheers: hope you can join in. 

I’m sure marketing does just that.  It does make some sense to me as a pocket knife given what I’d carry in full size tools on an “expedition.”
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: marlowe221 on April 07, 2024, 07:54:14 AM
Follow along if you can! Is the Explorer too much knife for London (or is it a flight carryon only kind of issue)?

I’m sure I will check a suitcase for the flight. I’ve done that before when flying domestically, to make sure I have a SAK on the other end, I am not sure how that works internationally with the UK.

I’m also given to understand that people are less accepting of pocket knives in public in England and, as a visitor, I suppose I was thinking that I would try to be as careful/discreet as possible.

I was planning on having my Rambler in my checked luggage for this trip.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Fast Bill on April 07, 2024, 08:31:41 AM
Hi Marlowe, you'll be best off checking in any cutlery in the hold baggage I suggest. Knife carrying is just not that commonplace over here these days. The law allows you to carry less than 3 inch bladed folder without lawful excuse but a lock or fixed blade in public would need good reason. There have been a few incidents over the years which have made the general public less accepting but I've always found people recognise a SAK for what it is - a damn fine tool.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: MTSAK on April 07, 2024, 07:00:09 PM
Is there an issue with being involved with two challenges at one time?
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Antti Lammi on April 07, 2024, 07:12:02 PM
Is there an issue with being involved with two challenges at one time?
You can participate both challenge but you get only 1 badge.

Only Tools Matters

Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: marlowe221 on April 07, 2024, 11:00:06 PM
Hi Marlowe, you'll be best off checking in any cutlery in the hold baggage I suggest. Knife carrying is just not that commonplace over here these days. The law allows you to carry less than 3 inch bladed folder without lawful excuse but a lock or fixed blade in public would need good reason. There have been a few incidents over the years which have made the general public less accepting but I've always found people recognise a SAK for what it is - a damn fine tool.

Thanks for the advice, I keep that in mind!
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on April 08, 2024, 02:37:10 AM
Thanks for the advice, I keep that in mind!

Agreed sounds like solid advice. The Explorer might be just the right size SAK for a trip anyways.

But I won’t personally give you advice one or another as I’ve not been to the UK nor taken anything more than a classic international.  That made it to Japan and back in checked no questions.  Japanese security did stop me on the way out for the carryon of my shamisen plectrum. A bachi looks like and is about the same size as a small ice scraper for your windshield so I’m not surprised it was flagged, but it was let through.

Doesn’t SurgeUK work for an airport? Maybe he’ll chime in on the customs side of things. 

Is there an issue with being involved with two challenges at one time?

If you choose to do an Explorer badge in the future I’d probably join in if not on another challenge.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: hsherzfeld on April 08, 2024, 08:46:26 PM
I’m in!
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on April 10, 2024, 01:12:26 AM
I’m in!

Glad to have you on board!
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Antti Lammi on April 12, 2024, 04:16:08 PM
Hmm maybe i could try this challenge since i havent actually carried my Explorer much, maybe few times since i got this. (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240412/c650cbce54be5e82ea26070b039deaea.jpg)

Only Tools Matters

Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on April 12, 2024, 06:01:19 PM
Hmm maybe i could try this challenge since i havent actually carried my Explorer much, maybe few times since i got this. (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240412/c650cbce54be5e82ea26070b039deaea.jpg)

Only Tools Matters

It’d be great to have you join  :salute:

I’ve never seen those scales before now.  Neat.  I wonder what year that Explorer is?
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Antti Lammi on April 12, 2024, 06:15:18 PM
It’d be great to have you join  :salute:

I’ve never seen those scales before now.  Neat.  I wonder what year that Explorer is?
I suspect 1991 since this has hook (1991) also has screw on scissors (1991 rivet replaced screw)

Only Tools Matters

Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Antti Lammi on April 12, 2024, 06:25:10 PM
If i dont remember wrong logo is world logo.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240412/e16314a1e4ee68059803048c47ada84e.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240412/003b01a113e4abdc5a0725014daaebb3.jpg)

Only Tools Matters

Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: pa_strunk on April 14, 2024, 06:31:14 PM
Those scales are sweet  :like:
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Jeffjeeptj on April 14, 2024, 06:40:17 PM
I agree.  Love those scales
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on April 23, 2024, 03:03:20 AM
About 10 days to go now. I’m starting a list.  Not that we really need it although I like the organization.  I think I’ve got everyone here. Included you Jeffjeeptj from your other Explorer thread.  Anyone missed or new please add yourself.

1. Grand_Banana
2. nate j
3. hsherzfeld
4. Antti Lammi
5. Jeffjeeptj


Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Jeffjeeptj on April 23, 2024, 01:21:02 PM
Thanks, Grand.  I’m in.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: powernoodle on April 23, 2024, 08:36:08 PM
We need a Badge for completing this and other Challenges more than once.

Maybe a dunce cap.  :ahhh

(https://i.imgur.com/DMSZa8a.jpg)
Explorer.

Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on April 23, 2024, 11:59:23 PM
We need a Badge for completing this and other Challenges more than once.

Maybe a dunce cap.  :ahhh

(https://i.imgur.com/DMSZa8a.jpg)
Explorer.

With dunce levels. Complete the same challenge 3 times and you get the dodo bird. :nanadance:

Powernoodle are you in for the explorer challenge?
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: powernoodle on April 24, 2024, 12:11:22 AM
Powernoodle are you in for the explorer challenge?

Prolly not, but I wouldn't rule it out completely - especially if I got a Dunce Badge.  (https://emoticons.datahamster.com/wobble.gif) (https://emoticons.datahamster.com/wobble.gif) (https://emoticons.datahamster.com/wobble.gif)
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Buzzbait on April 25, 2024, 06:55:19 PM
I'm in. I've got a couple of Explorers, an older version and a newer one to play with.

1. Grand_Banana
2. nate j
3. hsherzfeld
4. Antti Lammi
5. Jeffjeeptj
6. Buzzbait

(https://i.imgur.com/D2jtEjnh.jpg)
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on April 25, 2024, 11:52:05 PM
Great to have you in aboard Buzzbait
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Antti Lammi on April 26, 2024, 11:42:20 AM
i will start carrying my Explorer when challenge begins, i havent yet carried it so much that i could really have strong opinion on it so this will test me many ways. Maybe exclusively carry this to see how good Explorer is.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: hsherzfeld on April 26, 2024, 02:19:59 PM
Those are some nice scale colors, Buzzbait!
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Buzzbait on April 26, 2024, 06:26:40 PM
Those are some nice scale colors, Buzzbait!

Thanks. I wanted plus scales for both knives, so I decided to order some interesting colors. Once the new scales were on, I was over moon with how both knives turned out.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: BradSAK on April 28, 2024, 10:23:19 AM
It'll be good to see people's feedback. On youtube atleast it seems a very over looked SAK.
I love mine and its my main EDC pocket knife.
Only time i switch it out is when i fancy carrying my swiss champ and even then it sometimes comes along because i love it so much haha. Either that or back the swiss champ up with a tinker...
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Antti Lammi on April 30, 2024, 09:13:11 PM
Tomorrow it starts and im kinda excited to see how good Explorer really is in use.

Only Tools Matters

Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on May 01, 2024, 12:23:31 AM
It'll be good to see people's feedback. On youtube atleast it seems a very over looked SAK.
I love mine and its my main EDC pocket knife.
Only time i switch it out is when i fancy carrying my swiss champ and even then it sometimes comes along because i love it so much haha. Either that or back the swiss champ up with a tinker...

 :iagree: Will you join us for the challenge?  :pok:

Tomorrow it starts and im kinda excited to see how good Explorer really is in use.

Only Tools Matters



 :cheers: :woohoo:

Here’s our list so far:

1. Grand_Banana
2. nate j
3. hsherzfeld
4. Antti Lammi
5. Jeffjeeptj
6. Buzzbait
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: nate j on May 01, 2024, 01:13:36 AM
On youtube atleast it seems a very over looked SAK.
I think of it more like this…

Start with the basic Spartan.

If willing to go to three layers, what’s the next most useful tool/layer to have?
Many (though not all) might say “scissors”.  That gets us to Climber (with the hook as a bonus).

If willing to go to four layers, what’s the next most useful tool/layer to have?
Some would say “wood saw”, which gets them to Huntsman.  I would say there’s a good argument for “metal saw/file”, but the Mountaineer doesn’t seem to get much love.  I also think there’s a solid case for “pliers”; the Deluxe Climber is sadly discontinued, but they are available used on the ‘bay, all parts exist to mod your own, or the Deluxe Tinker is still available.  If your answer is “end-mounted 3D Phillips” and or “mag glass”, then of course the Explorer is made for you.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Alan K. on May 01, 2024, 09:37:20 AM
I'm in.  :woohoo:

1. Grand_Banana
2. nate j
3. hsherzfeld
4. Antti Lammi
5. Jeffjeeptj
6. Buzzbait
7. Alan K.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Antti Lammi on May 01, 2024, 10:54:19 AM
Since i time to time need pliers im wondering what tool should i pair with Explorer?
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Antti Lammi on May 01, 2024, 01:27:08 PM
Day 1 of 30

Im starting this challenge with this picture, played little with magnifying glass. (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240501/5b44cff896505044ed2d13c086afcdec.jpg)

Only Tools Matters

Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Jeffjeeptj on May 01, 2024, 01:58:23 PM
I participated in last month’s Sportsman challenge.  My last photo was with a Transformer toy my son used when he was younger and the Sportsman.  Starting this challenge with the toy transformed and the Explorer now in the picture.

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Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on May 01, 2024, 02:10:36 PM
I'm in.  :woohoo:

1. Grand_Banana
2. nate j
3. hsherzfeld
4. Antti Lammi
5. Jeffjeeptj
6. Buzzbait
7. Alan K.

 :like: Great to have you in!

I participated in last month’s Sportsman challenge.  My last photo was with a Transformer toy my son used when he was younger and the Sportsman.  Starting this challenge with the toy transformed and the Explorer now in the picture.

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  [ This attachment cannot be displayed inline in 'Print Page' view ]  
Day 1 of 30

Im starting this challenge with this picture, played little with magnifying glass. (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240501/5b44cff896505044ed2d13c086afcdec.jpg)

Only Tools Matters



 :like: Transformers were my favorite as a kid and now my kids are playing with them. Great pic

 :like:Nice one! What’s the watch?
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Antti Lammi on May 01, 2024, 02:58:09 PM


:like:Nice one! What’s the watch?

Watch is ZA1 automatic dive watch #9 made by ZED

Only Tools Matters

Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on May 01, 2024, 03:07:51 PM
Day 1

Here’s my Explorer I’ll use throughout this month along with the other two things always on me: my trusty Olight I3T and a cheap pokka pen.

  [ This attachment cannot be displayed inline in 'Print Page' view ]  

I EDC the Explorer but have never kept track of the tool use. I’ll try to post a pic of my most used tool or newly used tool of the day for this challenge to see what kind of use I get.

I EDC the Explorer but have never kept track of the tool use. I know I quite frequently use the blades, scissors, and screwdriver.  I’ll try to post a pic of my most used tool or newly used tool of the day for this challenge to see what kind of use I get.

Starting off this challenge like all others with breakfast.

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Tools used:
Large blade x1
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Buzzbait on May 01, 2024, 03:34:11 PM
Day 1 - I have a few Explorers, but this is my favorite. It’s the current model with the newer glass magnifier, but with yellow plus scales. I’m not normally a cellidor fan, but certain colors like the yellow are quite appealing to me.

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Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: hsherzfeld on May 01, 2024, 03:59:17 PM
My yellow Explorer (my standard EDC SAK) with two other components of my basic EDC: Fisher space pen and Streamlight Microstream USB flashlight.

As with most of these challenges, the challenging part for me will be remembering to take and post daily photos.

I’ll probably alternate between my yellow and  green Explorers.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: nate j on May 01, 2024, 05:21:11 PM
Day 1

The Explorer’s small blade helped start the day off right…
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Alan K. on May 01, 2024, 06:45:05 PM
Day 01
Here's my pre-91 Explorer with my homemade pocket dangler using a fishing swivel and aluminum fence tie wire.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on May 01, 2024, 06:56:04 PM
Man I do like those yellow scales, two great looking Explorers. 

Unless I end up putting plus scales on my Explorer, all I need most of the time is that SAK, flashlight, and pen. 

Day 1

The Explorer’s small blade helped start the day off right…

 :iagree:


Watch is ZA1 automatic dive watch #9 made by ZED

Only Tools Matters



Nice

Since i time to time need pliers im wondering what tool should i pair with Explorer?

I typically pair my Kick with the Explorer.  I think it’s the best minimalist SAK next to a PST/Bond. if I really think I’ll just need the pliers and another screwdriver or the wire stripper I’ll grab the Kick. Some redundancy but helpful to hold a bolt and tighten a screw, etc. it may be used when the Explorer can’t meet the task during this challenge.

Day 01
Here's my pre-91 Explorer with my homemade pocket dangler using a fishing swivel and aluminum fence tie wire.

 :like:
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Antti Lammi on May 01, 2024, 07:08:47 PM

I typically pair my Kick with the Explorer.  I think it’s the best minimalist SAK next to a PST/Bond. if I really think I’ll just need the pliers and another screwdriver or the wire stripper I’ll grab the Kick. Some redundancy but helpful to hold a bolt and tighten a screw, etc. it may be used when the Explorer can’t meet the task during this challenge.

 :like:

I thinked Spirit since i mainly carry it on edc bag during challenge and use it only when needed (hopefully not needed many times)

Only Tools Matters
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: BradSAK on May 01, 2024, 08:41:20 PM

I'm in.  :woohoo:

1. Grand_Banana
2. nate j
3. hsherzfeld
4. Antti Lammi
5. Jeffjeeptj
6. Buzzbait
7. Alan K
8. BradSAK

So happy to join my first challenge and its an easy start using my favourite SAK

Used at work tightening jubilee clips on an engine, and slicing some strawberrys for my little girl with my non work explorer!

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Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Farmer X on May 01, 2024, 10:31:10 PM
My yellow Explorer...
:like: I wanted a yellow 91mm for the longest time, but I don't think that'll ever happen. A yellow Bantam, on the other hand, would be more doable.

As I don't (and likely won't) own an Explorer, I cannot participate. But I'll observe from the sidelines!
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: nate j on May 01, 2024, 11:58:06 PM
So happy to join my first challenge

Welcome!
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: hsherzfeld on May 02, 2024, 02:18:59 AM
:like: I wanted a yellow 91mm for the longest time, but I don't think that'll ever happen. A yellow Bantam, on the other hand, would be more doable.

As I don't (and likely won't) own an Explorer, I cannot participate. But I'll observe from the sidelines!

There's nothing to stop you from owning a yellow 91mm SAK. My  Explorer was red when I bought it. I simply bought some yellow Plus scales on the Bay of Es.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on May 02, 2024, 04:28:42 AM
I'm in.  :woohoo:

1. Grand_Banana
2. nate j
3. hsherzfeld
4. Antti Lammi
5. Jeffjeeptj
6. Buzzbait
7. Alan K
8. BradSAK

So happy to join my first challenge and its an easy start using my favourite SAK

Used at work tightening jubilee clips on an engine, and slicing some strawberrys for my little girl with my non work explorer!

  [ This attachment cannot be displayed inline in 'Print Page' view ]

Great to have you Brad! Is that a whittling blade?

There's nothing to stop you from owning a yellow 91mm SAK. My  Explorer was red when I bought it. I simply bought some yellow Plus scales on the Bay of Es.

The only thing stopping me is spending the money on new scales. I feel I need to earn them when the current ones wear out or are damaged.

:like: I wanted a yellow 91mm for the longest time, but I don't think that'll ever happen. A yellow Bantam, on the other hand, would be more doable.

As I don't (and likely won't) own an Explorer, I cannot participate. But I'll observe from the sidelines!

 A yellow bantam would look nice

Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on May 02, 2024, 04:30:00 AM
I thinked Spirit since i mainly carry it on edc bag during challenge and use it only when needed (hopefully not needed many times)

Only Tools Matters

That is a good choice.  I have paired the Explorer and Spirit many times before.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Farmer X on May 02, 2024, 05:00:17 AM
There's nothing to stop you from owning a yellow 91mm SAK.
Just lack of a set of yellow scales to slap on. That and I've pretty well joined "Team No Back Layer Tools."
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Antti Lammi on May 02, 2024, 08:00:58 AM
Day 02 of 30

Day started with Explorer slicing cucumber to my sandwhich. Enjoyed my sandwhich with cup of black coffee.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240502/f92581f30f5c6e8a71b5b7e8c43b1777.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240502/1b3044c55222e9a2f33233db80b409a4.jpg)

Only Tools Matters

Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Jeffjeeptj on May 02, 2024, 02:24:33 PM
I misplaced my glasses and needed to read some fine print.  Could have used the camera on the phone, but, it was way more fun using the Explorer.  Obviously used the camera anyway, but, …

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Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Buzzbait on May 02, 2024, 06:10:56 PM
Day 2: Opening a package today, using the Explorer’s awl. Not nearly as effective as the awl on my 93mm alox knives, but still got the job done.

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Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: GA1dad on May 02, 2024, 06:25:54 PM
Those yeller Explorer's are quite appealing!!
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: BradSAK on May 02, 2024, 07:05:14 PM
Great to have you Brad! Is that a whittling blade?


It is! Here is the last whittle i did. A peter rabbit. Ive not had much time to whittle since my ten month old was born  :ahhh

Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Alan K. on May 02, 2024, 09:58:49 PM
Day 02
Today I opened more mulch for the yard and rediscovered the shortcomings that usually prevent me from carrying the Explorer.
1 I needed pliers to pull the liner from a lighter to refill it and the Explorer doesn't have pliers.
2 I needed a saw to remove a small branch in the backyard and the Explorer doesn't have a saw.
Therefore, I'm going to have to follow Antti's example and figure out what pliers based tool to pair with it.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Farmer X on May 02, 2024, 11:23:39 PM
I'm going to have to follow Antti's example and figure out what pliers based tool to pair with it.
Maybe a Signal? Failing that, a Rebar or a Wave would awlways be a good choice. A SwissTool with a wood saw would be up there, too.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Alan K. on May 03, 2024, 02:33:43 AM
Any of those would be a good choice but I'm thinking maybe my SOG PowerLock because it's been neglected for a few years now.  I can't even remember ever carrying it since the SOG Power challenge in 2016. :twak:
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on May 03, 2024, 02:54:39 AM
Great day 2 uses awl.  :like:

Day 02
Today I opened more mulch for the yard and rediscovered the shortcomings that usually prevent me from carrying the Explorer.
1 I needed pliers to pull the liner from a lighter to refill it and the Explorer doesn't have pliers.
2 I needed a saw to remove a small branch in the backyard and the Explorer doesn't have a saw.
Therefore, I'm going to have to follow Antti's example and figure out what pliers based tool to pair with it.

That’s awlways the trouble with using the Explorer outside. 

Day 2: Opening a package today, using the Explorer’s awl. Not nearly as effective as the awl on my 93mm alox knives, but still got the job done.

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 :iagree:  Is that a bodhi seed mala wrapped around your wrist?

It is! Here is the last whittle i did. A peter rabbit. Ive not had much time to whittle since my ten month old was born  :ahhh



That looks great!
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on May 03, 2024, 03:00:19 AM
Day 2

Like Antti Lammi my Explorer saw more food prep today.  I was quite sick today and baked beans, buttered Hawaiian sweet rolls, and oranges seemed to taste good for dinner. 

Large blade for the bread and butter.  Can opener for the oranges and beans.  Scissors opened several popsicles today.

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Tools used:
Large blade x2
Can opener x1
Scissors x1
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: nate j on May 03, 2024, 03:10:10 AM
Day 2

What can I say, except that these are pretty decent for cheaper smokes…


Cool idea to track tool usage GB.  I think my challenge totals after day 2 are
Small Blade 5x
Scissors 3x
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Buzzbait on May 03, 2024, 03:39:46 AM
:iagree:  Is that a bodhi seed mala wrapped around your wrist?!

Good eye. It’s a sandalwood mala with a bodhi seed guru bead. It’s still fairly new. I typically spend a week or so every winter, beading new malas to pass the time. My yellow Explorer sat on my bench the entire time, the scissors cutting cord and tassels.

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Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Buzzbait on May 03, 2024, 03:42:28 AM
It is! Here is the last whittle i did. A peter rabbit. Ive not had much time to whittle since my ten month old was born  :ahhh

Absolutely beautiful work!!!
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Farmer X on May 03, 2024, 04:44:43 AM
I was quite sick today...
Hope you're feeling better by now!

These are pretty decent for cheaper smokes…
That would probably be a pricey smoke for me!
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: hsherzfeld on May 03, 2024, 05:02:28 AM
Day 2:

No Explorer use today. Here’s a shot of the yellow Explorer along with a piece deck planking from battleship Texas.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Antti Lammi on May 03, 2024, 09:28:35 AM
After yesterday i decide to choose my Rebwing as my pliers carry instead Spirit. My RebWing is 6 gram lighter and has dedicated Metal Saw and Heavy Duty Saw (for Metal and Wood) also has excellent pliers, even tho Spirit is much more erconomic to use. Also i can mod Rebar toolset when needed.

Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: nate j on May 03, 2024, 02:09:34 PM
That would probably be a pricey smoke for me!
Well, I suppose it’s all relative, but I think I paid around $2 per stick for these.  Which, for a handmade churchill-sized cigar, puts it solidly in the bargain category in my mind.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Antti Lammi on May 03, 2024, 02:10:55 PM
Day 3 of 30

Today used small blade to sharpen my pencil (it travels on my edc bag along other pens)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240503/ab2c2dc92917e50d4f8a022cfd13f883.jpg)

Only Tools Matters

Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Jeffjeeptj on May 03, 2024, 02:24:40 PM
Ready to open a can of pumpkin for a pie.

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Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Alan K. on May 04, 2024, 12:03:24 AM
Day 03
I chopped up some Cheddar slices to add to a bowl of chili I had for lunch.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: hsherzfeld on May 04, 2024, 12:43:27 AM
Day 30:

I switched to my green Explorer today.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: nate j on May 04, 2024, 04:34:20 AM
Day 3

The large blade got some work today, cleaning my fingernails and cutting a couple of tags off of toys for my kids.

Challenge totals:
Small Blade 5
Scissors 3
Large Blade 3
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Farmer X on May 04, 2024, 05:02:28 AM
Here’s a shot of the yellow Explorer along with a piece deck planking from battleship Texas.
Way too cool!

I think I paid around $2 per stick for these.
Not as bad as I thought. Barely any more than a single Backwoods.

Another great day, y'awl!
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Jeffjeeptj on May 04, 2024, 01:38:30 PM
Day 4

Using the Phillips to repair an extension cord.
Remember electrical safety - black to black, white to white, cut off the green and throw it away - j/k

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Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Antti Lammi on May 04, 2024, 05:05:47 PM
Day 04 of 30

Used scissors today to trim my beard(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240504/b9593eaa0ebb826eb727b47b771b6c2f.jpg)

Only Tools Matters

Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Farmer X on May 04, 2024, 09:56:59 PM
Cut off the green and throw it away - j/k
And don't put two male ends on it. In the event of a power outage, that can seriously injure or kill the folks who are working hard to restore your power.

Another great day, y'awl!
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Jeffjeeptj on May 04, 2024, 10:08:46 PM
And don't put two male ends on it. In the event of a power outage, that can seriously injure or kill the folks who are working hard to restore your power.

Another great day, y'awl!

I fully agree.  I worked for a power company for many years, in generation.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Buzzbait on May 04, 2024, 10:49:11 PM
Day 3 and 4:

So sorry. I normal post updates at night, and I totally fell asleep last night!!! I used the scissors yesterday, to open up a bag of grit I’m using to tumble some stones my daughter found on a recent trip to the mountains.

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I’ve been busy planting trees in my local park today. I haven’t needed a knife much, but I did make prodigious use of the cap lifter.  :cheers:.

You may notice the Explorer change for me. I’m giving the yellow Explorer a rest this weekend, and using an older model with nice new green plus scales.

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Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Farmer X on May 04, 2024, 10:56:34 PM
I normal post updates at night, and I totally fell asleep last night!!!
I've had that happen, so don't feel bad. And that green... :drool:
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Buzzbait on May 05, 2024, 12:56:51 AM
And that green... :drool:

I love the brightness of the yellow, but the green looks straight up classy.

Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: powernoodle on May 05, 2024, 01:01:42 AM
Awesome pics, peoples.  :cheers:   :tu:

(https://i.imgur.com/ITad4tb.jpg)
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Alan K. on May 05, 2024, 01:43:39 AM
Day 04
Somebody gave me an orchid and I used the magnifying lens for a closer look.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on May 05, 2024, 04:24:35 AM
Day 3

Back up and running after being sick, which means hanging in there while everyone else’s in the family gets it. Lots to catch up on here! I know I owe some folks replies.

All I did today was open popsicles.

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Tools used:
Large blade x2
Can opener x1
Scissors x2
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Farmer X on May 05, 2024, 04:33:25 AM
Awesome pics, peoples.
:iagree: And what are those scales?

All I did today was open popsicles.
I have a lot of those ice pops in my freezers. Doubtless there will be a similar photo from me before the Micra challenge concludes.

Another great day, y'awl!
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: nate j on May 05, 2024, 04:36:45 AM
Day 4

Busy day for the Explorer.  I used the small blade to trim a cigar, scissors to trim my mustache and one of my daughter’s fingernails, large blade to cut the tags off a new bike for one of my daughters, and the hook to pull the strap back through the buckle to fix a bike helmet for another daughter.

Challenge totals:
Small Blade 6
Scissors 5
Large Blade 4
Hook 1
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: hsherzfeld on May 05, 2024, 04:44:49 AM
Day 04:

The green Explorer got a workout in the garden today. I used the scissors to trim spent flowers and leaves. I used the magnifying glass to check for aphids and to examine other bugs, and the main blade to scrape them off.
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Alan K. on May 05, 2024, 08:34:12 AM
Is that mint? Or is it a weed? :ahhh
Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Grand_Banana on May 05, 2024, 01:55:35 PM
Good eye. It’s a sandalwood mala with a bodhi seed guru bead. It’s still fairly new. I typically spend a week or so every winter, beading new malas to pass the time. My yellow Explorer sat on my bench the entire time, the scissors cutting cord and tassels.

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 :like: That’s great. I have made several, a couple for myself from my own practice and some to give away. Haven’t had time to make any for a couple years now.

Hope you're feeling better by now!

Thanks, I am on the mend now I think. Caring for family that are now in it.

Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Jeffjeeptj on May 05, 2024, 05:40:00 PM
Explorer is cutting the outer jacket from the extension cord wire.  Blade is nice and sharp. Assuring the inner insulation is not damaged by cutting too deep.

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Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: Antti Lammi on May 05, 2024, 05:53:51 PM
Day 5 of 30

Used awl today to clean dirt under my nails, also used scissors to shorten my finger nails (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240505/100d3c5fa440348537642ad3314a273b.jpg)

Only Tools Matters

Title: Re: Explorer Challenge May 2024
Post by: hsherzfeld on May 05, 2024, 06:37:49 PM
Is that mint? Or is it a weed? :ahhh

It's scarlet sage, growing from wildflower seeds. In some circumstances it would be considered a weed, but in my garden it's quite welcome. Hummingbirds love it.