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Tool Talk => Swiss Army Knights Forum => Topic started by: Myoman on July 12, 2019, 09:25:18 PM

Title: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Myoman on July 12, 2019, 09:25:18 PM
For urban EDC threads, I've noticed a trend. Either the Explorer will be the recommended knife for 85% of the thread, or the Super Tinker will be the recommended knife for the majority of the thread. It seems that fans of one or the other will make a strong showing, but never at the same time.

Well, this is for those fans of the two knives. Give your argument why either the Super Tinker or Explorer is the superior EDC. Please no other recommendations like the Swisschamp Huntsman, Farmer, Cadet, Yeoman, etc. Let's stick to those two knives, since after pouring over the urban EDC threads on here, those two seem the most recommended.

FIGHT!
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Nix on July 12, 2019, 09:29:14 PM
While I like the Super Tinker...a LOT...I've got old man eyes and that magnifying glass is just too handy at times. And I like the in-line Philips, too.

A fatter carry?  Yes.  But with some real advantages, let's spell that Phatter!  Explorer gets my vote for Urban EDC (and regularly goes in my pocket  :)).
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Buzzbait on July 12, 2019, 09:44:35 PM
I definitely fall into the Explorer camp. As I grow older, and my eyesight gets worse, the magnifier becomes more and more valuable to me. The magnifier is even a ton of fun to play with.

Also, with my lack of eyesight, the eyeglass screwdriver has become extremely helpful, which you can't fit on a Super Tinker. It's very easy to use the tiny screwdriver in combination with the magnifier, to tighten the bows on my glasses.

And once you get the magnifier layer, the inline Phillips becomes yours as well, which I firmly believe to be approximately 623% more useful and easy to use than a backside Phillips.
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Buzzbait on July 12, 2019, 09:47:56 PM
A fatter carry?  Yes.  But with some real advantages, let's spell that Phatter!

Thicc knives save lives.
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Myoman on July 12, 2019, 09:53:39 PM
I think the argument for the super tinker is that the can opener is a very effective philips driver, therefore making the inline philips slightly redundant. For tightening, breaking, and recessed screws, you can start/finish with the back philips driver.
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Nix on July 12, 2019, 10:18:10 PM
Thicc knives save lives.

 :rofl:   :like:
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Nix on July 12, 2019, 10:20:45 PM
I think the argument for the super tinker is that the can opener is a very effective philips driver, therefore making the inline philips slightly redundant. For tightening, breaking, and recessed screws, you can start/finish with the back philips driver.


I think you are right. For me and my needs, it's the magnifying glass that makes the difference. The in-line Philips is just a bonus. A bonus that allows space for the corkscrew tool........  :)
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Sos24 on July 12, 2019, 10:43:15 PM
If I were to vote between the two, it would be Explorer for me.

These are both great knives and the toolset is great on both.  What it comes down to is how much do you value the magnifier.  I enjoy the magnifier.  Also, I’ve had instances where the can opener tip just wouldn’t hold and there really wasn’t enough space to use the backside phillips, hence I prefer the inline phillips.

The biggest thing the Super Tinker has going for it is being the slightly thinner 3-layer.  This is why I instantly fell in love with the Yeoman when I got one used.
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Borg on July 12, 2019, 10:44:59 PM
Explorer for me, for the mag glass  :tu:
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: sir_mike on July 13, 2019, 12:36:15 AM
Explorer without a doubt.  The inline philips is hands down a ton better tool then the back philips and gotta love the mag lens.  :)
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Sawl Goodman on July 13, 2019, 12:52:24 AM
Explorer all day long. :tu:

For me, the extra utility of the Explorer over the Super Tinker more than makes up for the added bulk, weight, and cost. You gain the multifunction corkscrew, the magnifier, and a much sturdier Phillips that's more convenient and comfortable to use. It handles nicely, too. Overall, a much better choice as an only carry, in my opinion.
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: temo on July 13, 2019, 12:55:45 AM
Think urban usage is opening wine bottles in park and looking flowers with magnifier
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: jaya_man on July 13, 2019, 01:43:02 AM
Super Tinker is a great tool set... Although the caplifter can be used as a phillips driver, to me it lacks the torque... I’ve seen a lot of bent caplifter tips... The backside phillips just wont do in tight spaces... plus its prone to fold while turning screws... This is why I used to edc an Explorer... mag glass comes as a bonus (seldom used but came convenient one time while trying to remove a splinter)...

Over time, the Explorer became bulky in the pockets as I carry more stuff...  It’s what convinced me that 3 layer is the max I can pocket carry... That’s when a  Yeoman took over...  as it still retains the two tools my SAK must have... Inline phillips and scissors...
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: smiller43147 on July 13, 2019, 02:44:12 AM
Both fine knives, but I go for the 3 layer ST as my pick.
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: cody6268 on July 13, 2019, 02:47:03 AM
It's what YOU think you really need. I have both; and really like both equally, the slimness of the Super Tinker makes it a bit better. The Explorer has been carried hardly at all.  There for several months, the Super Tinker was my go-to SAK. And might I add, it was a mistake. I bought it to tear apart for restoring an older SAK, only to learn I couldn't fix a 1960s knife with 2010 parts.
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: comis on July 13, 2019, 08:53:28 AM
Contrary to many, I actually don't mind the backspring phillips but voted Explorer because it is essentially a choice between:

Backspring phillips + 1 layer slimmer(Super Tinker) vs Inline phillips + mag glass + cockscrew + small eyeglass screwdriver(Explorer)

On average, every layer of tools in 91mm is approximately 20g(0.7 oz).  With that many tool implements to gain, I think most would naturally gravitate towards Explorer, especially when a 4 layers SAK is decent to carry(only around 100g/3.5oz).

This is a little off topic, I have very recently just made a Mountaineer mod with both backspring phillips and corkscrew, if you are interested, please keep an eye out for the future writeup in mod squad.



Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Barry Rowland on July 13, 2019, 04:33:13 PM
I vote for the Explorer, too.  I love the Super Tinker but I'm finding that the inline Philips and Mag glass are the deal breakers for me.
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Mattexian on July 14, 2019, 10:31:29 PM
I'm gonna vote for the Super Tinker as my preferred urban knife. Been carrying mine again, for a little over a week (since the 4th? Close enough), and haven't had any real complaints. While the Yeoman (my only other model for comparison) has the inline Phillips, magnifier, and corkscrew, I much prefer the dedicated opener layer and awl, and the pen blade.  Paired with one of my Spyderco knives for a one-handed opener, this has done a fair job of covering what my previous pairing of OHT and Classic did for my day-to-day needs.

Sent from my SM-J727T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Kraken on July 16, 2019, 09:08:34 PM
I've carried both as my EDC and my work SAK. I started out with the Explorer, then switched to the Deluxe Tinker, then came back to the Explorer again over the course of about a year. Although I liked the slimmer profile of the DT, the backside Philips was a deal breaker for me for two reasons: 1. Although it could access recessed screws, it needed a lot of side clearance to use, which wasn't always an option and 2. It always seemed to cam out on me when trying to use it if a lot of torque was required. I like the in-line Philips on the Explorer and if more torque is needed I can always lock it in the 90 degree position. To me, the added bulk from the extra tool layer is worth it to have the tool set I feel confident with when I'm out and about.
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: colt 1911 on July 16, 2019, 09:56:04 PM
Explorer all the way for reason explained above. One step better is the Victorinox Passenger. one less layer, " scissors "
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Max Stone on July 16, 2019, 10:32:28 PM
For EDC 4-layers breaks the thickness aspect ratio (it’s thicker than its width), so will always be more noticeable in the pocket. If I had to live 24/7 with one of these, it would be the Super Tinker. Sure, it has less features and some compromises, but #1 priority for EDC is pocket-ability. It still has enough of what you really need...
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: SirVicaLot on July 17, 2019, 04:45:58 AM
My vote goes to the Explorer. That magnifying glass is awesome, the inline Phillips a bonus and the corkscrew for knots and holding the mini screwdriver  :tu:

Also I am not a fan of the backside Phillips  :dunno:
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: comis on July 17, 2019, 07:41:50 AM
For EDC 4-layers breaks the thickness aspect ratio (it’s thicker than its width), so will always be more noticeable in the pocket. If I had to live 24/7 with one of these, it would be the Super Tinker. Sure, it has less features and some compromises, but #1 priority for EDC is pocket-ability. It still has enough of what you really need...

I think the question lies in what kind of 4 layers we are talking about, Explorer 4 layers will be ever so lightly wider than the Mountaineer 4 layers.  Personally, I think the Explorer 4 layers is my soft cap for my urban EDC carry, it's almost like a narrow square 'block' which fits nicely into a hand.
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: MacGyver on September 17, 2019, 09:30:15 PM
For EDC 4-layers breaks the thickness aspect ratio (it’s thicker than its width), so will always be more noticeable in the pocket. If I had to live 24/7 with one of these, it would be the Super Tinker. Sure, it has less features and some compromises, but #1 priority for EDC is pocket-ability. It still has enough of what you really need...

Completely agree  :iagree:

For standard (urban) work day EDC my limit is 3 layers 99% of the time. The 3 layer width and weight is as far as i will go.

I have the Explorer, and i like it. It's a very good SAK, i EDC'd it when i bought it for a couple of months, and got fed up with the bulk and weight. Having the inline phillips and mag glass dosen't compensate at all. Either the can opener or my moded bits are more than good enough for "incidental screwdriving", which is what i would use a sak for.

I would take the Super Tinker (or Climber) over the Explorer any time.  For comfort, both in pocket and in hand The Super Tinker even beats the Climber. I've filed off the ring tab on one of mine and it's very smooth. However i still like the looks of the CS more, and it adds the micro SD that i use a fair amount of times.

I've been carrying a Climber for almost a year (urban work days), and actually changed to the Compact in the last 4 months or so, as it can do a lot of what the Climber can, and it has only 2 layers. It's a bit of a compromise but it's worth it.


For weekends/off work days/other environments it can vary buy 4 layers (maybe 5 for the Ranger) is my top limit for a SAK, regardless of the tools
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: VICMAN on September 17, 2019, 09:37:08 PM
I vote for the Explorer due to the in-line phillips, magnifying glass, corkscrew and mini screwdriver.
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: AimlessWanderer on September 17, 2019, 09:43:15 PM
Completely agree  :iagree:

For standard (urban) work day EDC my limit is 3 layers 99% of the time. The 3 layer width and weight is as far as i will go.

I have the Explorer, and i like it. It's a very good SAK, i EDC'd it when i bought it for a couple of months, and got fed up with the bulk and weight. Having the inline phillips and mag glass dosen't compensate at all. Either the can opener or my moded bits are more than good enough for "incidental screwdriving", which is what i would use a sak for.


Ordinarily I would agree, and I didn't really gel with the Explorer for a daily carry knife. There's many a reason that the Wenger Traveler works so well for me, and the thickness is one of them.

That said, since I got my Deluxe Tinker recently (I had one years ago, but traded it away), I've hardly carried anything else. Occasionally I've picked up a traditional slippie instead, but the Deluxe Tinker seems a really good fit for me at the minute. I don't seem to have issues with the bulk either, although that might be because the pliers have been "enough", and so I haven't been carrying a pliers tool alongside.
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Simon_Templar on September 18, 2019, 12:49:12 AM
Even though I like the Explorer better as a SAK, as an EDC - as in "everyday carry" - the Super Tinker (and its cousin the Climber) is superior.

In everyday (urban) life, scissors are the most relevant addition to the basic SAK toolset. Being 5 mm thinner and almost 20 g lighter, a Super Tinker will go unnoticed in many pockets where an Explorer will not. Consequently, the Super Tinker is less socially awkward while being equally competent in the vast majority of cases, and thus the better EDC (only rivaled by the Compact and the PX).
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Rapidray on September 18, 2019, 01:41:28 AM
I also need all the help I can get with my eyes...Explorer...don’t even have to think about it!
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: strmliner on September 18, 2019, 06:54:18 AM
Tomato / Tomahto...everybody has a preference!   :drink:

Pocketability and scissors drive my uban EDC preference. And at three layers, my SuperTinker stays home more than it goes out. My Explorer only goes out in a backpack/duffle.  The refurbed/updated 2 layer Golfer goes out every day (and no stinkin' hooks).
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: zenderfall on September 18, 2019, 07:30:54 AM
I own both of these, and I also have a Deluxe Tinker as well....

Like most everyone says, the backside is a very poor location for that tool.  Also, the three layers may be thinner in the pocket and easier to carry, but it feels just too light for me.  Keep in mind it's not just the three layers, it's also taking into account the *thin-ness* of those layers as well.  Super Tinker has three really thin layers (unlike Cybertool with ONE BIG FAT LAYER), and to me that makes it feel too thin, and not a good grip in the hands.  The Explorer has four layers, yes, but magnifying glass is made of plastic, coupled with a short little stubby driver, does not add much weight, but a LOT more utility.  The thickness and weight of the Explorer seems to be just right.  I agree corkscrew might not be a big use, but that tiny screwdriver comes in handy a lot, for eyeglasses and certain brand watch bracelets.

I thought the Deluxe Tinker would be a benefit, but the thick pliers layer made it feel overbalanced.  Couple that, with the backside screwdriver and it was two steps back IMO.
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Kraken on September 18, 2019, 02:54:31 PM
I own both of these, and I also have a Deluxe Tinker as well....

Like most everyone says, the backside is a very poor location for that tool.  Also, the three layers may be thinner in the pocket and easier to carry, but it feels just too light for me.  Keep in mind it's not just the three layers, it's also taking into account the *thin-ness* of those layers as well.  Super Tinker has three really thin layers (unlike Cybertool with ONE BIG FAT LAYER), and to me that makes it feel too thin, and not a good grip in the hands.  The Explorer has four layers, yes, but magnifying glass is made of plastic, coupled with a short little stubby driver, does not add much weight, but a LOT more utility.  The thickness and weight of the Explorer seems to be just right.  I agree corkscrew might not be a big use, but that tiny screwdriver comes in handy a lot, for eyeglasses and certain brand watch bracelets.

I thought the Deluxe Tinker would be a benefit, but the thick pliers layer made it feel overbalanced.  Couple that, with the backside screwdriver and it was two steps back IMO.

+1  :iagree:
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Aloha on September 18, 2019, 06:59:00 PM
Explorer.  I have both knives and the Deluxe Tinker and the Explorer just seems like the best of all three.  I'd take the inline phillips over the philips on the back any day.  Mag glass is used and needed not only cause my old tired eyes but for seeing in finer detail.  I like to look at my edges and have used the mag glass for locating fine splinter in finger.     
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: temo on January 02, 2020, 12:57:46 AM
This is a tough one. I have preferred explorer but went to super tinker anyway. So I loose some from tools and size. Size for my EDC starts to be quite max. I had also third option pioneer x and loose phillips. So with three options in mind it was one in the middle. One important factor was that I don't use edc phillips a lot. But still wanted that over using can opener as phillips. Scissors were must. But I think all three I was thinking are great options. Again I do have pioneer and almost explorer vic mod. But for now super tinker seems edc option suits for me.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200101/e49edf073417c673ac2435ff2f015485.jpg)

Lähetetty minun ASUS_X00TD laitteesta Tapatalkilla

Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Rapidray on January 02, 2020, 02:01:14 AM
 :like: :tu:
Another cartoon character
Title: Re: Urban EDC throwdown: Super Tinker vs. Explorer
Post by: Steelej1976 on July 24, 2020, 11:42:33 PM
The Super Tinker gets my vote, 3 layers in my limit for pocket carry (and a Classic on my keychain).    As others have stated between the can opener and backspring Phillips on the Super Tinker you can do 95% of what the Phillips on the Explorer can do.  The magnifier while useful is not essential for me and the Corkscrew is not a deal breaker for me either.  The Camper and Super Tinker are my 2 favorite SAKs and I feel like the Explorer and Deluxe Tinker are Swiss Champ wannabes.  I get the appeal of the Explorer but just not for me I guess.