Over at Walmart, they’re discounting the Kershaw Dividend folding pocket knife to $30.

I don’t know if this is an Early Black Friday 2018 deal, a regular deal, or maybe it’s even regular pricing on special colors. What I do know is that it’s a very good knife that’s currently priced at $10 less than the $40 the aluminum-handled knife typically sells for elsewhere.

I like the USA-made Dividend a lot – check out my review of the Kershaw Dividend for more details. It has a 3″ blade, assisted-opening flipper mechanism, and anodized handle.

There are two models on sale, one with a plain stonewash-finished blade and anodized orange handles, and one with a black-finish blade with anodized tan handles.

Sale Price: $30

Anodized-handle Dividend knives typically sell for $40-42.

Buy Now(Orange Handled Dividend via Walmart)
Buy Now(Tan Handled Dividend via Walmart)
Compare(via Amazon)

You can opt for ship-to-store pickup, or add at least $5 to your order to get free shipping. Looking quickly, I’d probably add the Klein 4-in-1 electronics screwdriver, or something like that. Or maybe one knife for me, one for a friend.

The Link is also on sale, for $32. It’s a slightly larger knife that also typically sells for $40.

Buy Now(Olive Handled Link via Walmart)
Compare(via Amazon)

Here’s a size comparison between the Leek (top), Dividend (middle), and Link (bottom). There are more photos in my Kershaw Dividend review if you’re interested.

Related Posts:

Kershaw Dividend EDC Knife Review (USA-Made, $40) New Kershaw Cinder Knife is Tiny and Non-Scary-Looking Kershaw TX-Tool Knife Tuning Screwdriver

The Kershaw Dividend is an EDC-sized USA-made folding pocket knife, with a retail price of around $40.

It features a 3″ blade size, anodized aluminum handles (model 1812GRY), and Kershaw SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism.

I have been testing a sample of this knife for some time now, and have grown to really like it. It reminds me of the feeling I had when I first bought my Kershaw Leek knife, reviewed here.

How can such an inexpensive knife perform so well and still be made in the USA?

There doesn’t seem to be any compromises in fit, finish, or quality, but you’re not getting any super-premium blade steel alloys or titanium handle scales at this price point.

Somehow, I feel like you get more than what you pay for.

I find the Kershaw Dividend to be a quite nice pocket knife for EDC – everyday carry. It’s compact, but not tiny.

I like its subtle non-tacticool design.

It doesn’t have a safety lock, which my Leek seems to be unique in featuring, but the knife hasn’t opened up in my pocket unexpectently – or anywhere else – yet.

The SpeedSafe assisted opening feature works well. Press down on the flipper, and the knife swings out quickly and easily. You still have to put manual effort into moving that flipper, and it’s this that separates assisted opening knives from automatic knives.

As always, know your local knife laws and regulations before buying or carrying a pocket knife.

Features & Specs

Check Price: via Amazon | via BladeHQ | w/ Nylon Handle

One nice feature is that the pocket clip is repositionable, for tip up or down carry, and left or right. It’s set at the factory for righty tip-up carry.

When placed in a front right pants pocket and towards the rightmost outer side, the blade is held closed against the pocket wall. There is a lanyard hole, but I don’t like assisted-opening knives hanging out loose in my pocket. Accidental openings are unpleasant surprises, especially when tip-up.

The blade shape is described as being a drop point, but I would describe it more as a modified Wharncliffe.

It seems to work well for slicing-style cutting tasks, and also precision tip-work such as when scoring.

I should have cleaned the knife better before taking photos, but I thought it shows what I mean about tip-work. Some knife blades are shaped better for precision cutting, the Dividend is one such knife. But it’s not a uni-tasker. The “belly” of the knife is gently curved, but nicely optimized for general purpose use.

The flipper tab is small, but as large as it needs to be. It’s easy to feel for, and easy to press.

That’s a big benefit of the SpeedSafe opening mechanism, in my opinion – the flipper tab can be smaller. If this was a manual knife, a flipper lever that small might require too much force for a successful opening swing. My guess is that, if this were a manual knife, that flipper would only swing the blade open halfway without a flick wrist or other compensating energy transfer.

It’s a liner lock knife. You don’t have to dig your thumb in to release the lock and close the knife.

This is a well-done and comfortable implementation of a simple but strong and effective lock design.

I’ve taken a liking towards frame-lock designs, but you’re not going to find a frame-lock knife at this price.

The blade is perfectly centered, and you can see how the knife is constructed. There are two steel slabs, one serving as the liner lock, and the two anodized aluminum handle scales.

Sorry, I guess the lighting makes it look a little purple. It’s not. It’s a beigey gray.

The steel gives the knife strength and durability, the aluminum gives it a light feel and textured grip.

It’s got a backwards flag, I’m guessing to denote its USA manufacturing origins. I had to remind myself of the meaning.

The two threaded holes at the top show an alternate placement for the pocket clip.

Having 4 position options is unusual. With a lot of knives, especially inexpensive ones, you have places to move the pocket clip to, if you can move it anywhere at all. Sometimes the sole choice is “pocket clip or no pocket clip.”

Made in the USA. Nice.

Hopefully the close-up gives you an idea of what the knife handles feel like. They’re not smooth – far from it – but aren’t rough or aggressive. The texture feels like very fine grit sandpaper that has been worn down – rough and grippy without being aggressive or painful.

The pocket clip isn’t remarkable, but its versatility is much appreciated. It’s no trouble to clip to the pocket of my jeans. If removed, you’re left with a very slender knife, in case you’re a “knife on a lanyard in a pocket” kind of user.

It’s somewhat larger than the Kershaw Leek. Shown here is my new teal-anodized Leek. Honestly, I think I prefer the stainless steel Leek knives, but this one was on sale. I ordered it during a holiday season Amazon Kershaw sale a few months ago.

This isn’t the best comparison photo, but if you know the Leek, maybe you’ll see something helpful.

Here is the Leek, Dividend, and Link. The Dividend is said to be a smaller adaptation of the Link. It might not look smaller in photos, but it has a noticeably smaller feel to it.

Here’s another Link joining the fray, to the right, with a partially serrated blade.

And just the Dividend and Link.

The Link feels like more of a workshop knife, but the Dividend is smaller to carry and nearly as capable.

I have medium-sized hands, and tend to like knives with 3″ blades, which is probably why the Dividend seemed to be a great fit.

I cannot comment about the knife steel yet, but 420HC isn’t premium stuff. It’s not bad either, and seems to be holding its factory edge through quite a bit of use.

I think that the Dividend has all the makings of a Kershaw classic. Now all we need are some color options, and it’ll be perfect.

There is a glass-filled nylon handle option. But unless you had a good reason for going with that style of handle rather than anodized aluminum, spend the few extra dollars and get this one.

Price: $40-42

Buy Now(via Amazon)
Buy Now(via BladeHQ)
Buy Now(Nylon Handle Version via Amazon)

Given my experience with this test sample, would I buy one? Definitely.

See More ToolGuyd Knife Reviews

Thank you to Kershaw for providing the review sample unconditionally.

Related Posts:

Your Favorite Knife Opening Mechanisms? Kershaw TX-Tool Knife Tuning Screwdriver Bradford Guardian3 Fixed Blade Knife Review

It’s been some time since I did a Father’s Day Gift Guide, here on ToolGuyd or anywhere else. I’ve been meaning to follow up my Ultimate Tool Gift Guide (vol. 2?) with a second general gift guide, but it keeps getting away from me.

I don’t know if I was going to do one for this year’s Father’s Day shopping season. I like reading about new stuff to add to my own wishlist and shopping list, but it’s hard to put together suggestions that regular readers might not have recently read about.

For a non-tool-focused site? There’s plenty of tool gift guide material. But for users who might be more familiar with newer tools out there? It’s harder to come up with interesting suggestions or recommendations.

Leigh recently wrote in:

Hey Stuart how about an article on some Father’s Day gifts in different price ranges. It is always nice to get something not only useful, but something you want.

Hmm, that changes things. A direct request for a Father’s Day gift guide. Okay, I’ll take the challenge!

For this 2017 Father’s Day gift guide, I pulled some ideas that were fresh at the top of my mind. I tried to keep things varied, and also injected a few ideas of tools you might not have seen before.

As of the time of this posting, here are 25 recommendations and suggestions, in no particular order.

Enjoy! (And please chime in with your own recommendations, and feedback about mine!)

Dewalt DCD777 Brushless Drill/Driver Kit

This Dewalt 20V Max brushless drill/driver, DCD777, is the $99 drill kit I’ve been buying as housewarming gifts.

I haven’t tried it – yet – but on paper it looks like a decent compact cordless drill, and it looks to have the same ergonomics as Dewalt’s leading 20V Max tools.

This seems to be a lower priced mass-market model, but it’s the most appealing one I’ve come across yet. And the kit comes with (2) Li-ion battery packs. They’re lower capacity packs, but you do get 2 of them.

Price: $99

Buy Now(via Amazon)

Kershaw Dividend or Link USA-Made Folding Knife

If you caught my review of the Kershaw Dividend pocket knife, you’d know I highly recommend this sub-$40 USA-made folding knife.

The Link is its big brother, and there are more blade and handle styles to choose from.

I wouldn’t recommend these for older users. My father and father in-law both have trouble with liner locks.

Price: $40-50

Buy Now(Dividend via Amazon)
Buy Now(Link via Amazon)

Mora Knife

I think my dad would get more use out of a fixed-blade Mora knife than any folder. They’re very inexpensive, so it’s a low-risk guess to make. These are good all-around knives that can handle some rough use.

Price: $13-18

Buy Now(via Amazon)

Ryobi 18V 6-Port Charger

I am going to make a guess here, and say that Ryobi 18V One+ users typically have several Li-ion battery packs. With Ryobi offering cordless tools and accessories of all kinds, that’s not so hard to imagine.

Ryobi’s newest 6-port charger is definitely an improvement over the older one. It’s more compact and more convenient to carry and stow.

If I had at least 3-4 Ryobi 18V battery packs, this would definitely be on my wishlist.

Admission: I’ll use my test sample for even just 2 batteries. It’s more convenient than pulling 2 separate Ryobi chargers into use.

Bonus: It’s got a 2-ampUSB charging port on the side.

Price: $60 (on sale)

Buy Now(via Home Depot)

Fein Multimaster Oscillating Tool with Starlock Interface

Fein makes a fantastic oscillating multi-tool. Prior to the new Bosch and Fein joint Starlock interface, I considered my Fein MultiMaster to be the best corded oscillating tool on the market.

This new Starlock version is even better.

Their starter kit is reasonably priced, but bare on accessories. I have taken a liking to Bosch oscillating multi-tool accessories, and their Starlock blades have come down in price.

Starlock tools are not backwards compatible, which means you’re stuck with Bosch and Fein accessories, which isn’t a bad thing unless you have a stockpile of accessories that fit other tools. And even if you do, maybe you’re looking to upgrade your corded multi-tool, but not your cordless one.

Price: ~$180 for the starter kit

Buy Now(via Amazon)
Buy Also(Starlock Blades)

Bosch GOP40-30C StarlockPlus Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit

This Bosch Starlock-compatible oscillating multi-tool kit gives you more accessories to start off with.

Bosch tools give you greater bang for the buck, Fein has traditionally been a little better in my opinion. I used both Bosch and Fein tools, and haven’t done any direct comparisons. Both are outstanding multi-tools, but the Bosch is a better value.

Which to buy? Well, do you prefer blue or orange? You really can’t go wrong either way.

Maybe in a few months I’ll have the time to do a head-to-head comparison. But in the meantime, I’d recommend both equally.

Price: $199

Buy Now(via Amazon)

Hitachi Brushless Impact Driver

Hitachi’s 18V triple anvil brushless impact driver has become my favorite cordless impact driver, which is no small feat. They also recently came out with a brushless impact wrench.

Ben’s review of the Hitachi brushless triple hammer impact driver was published earlier today, in case you missed it.

It’s pricey, but powerful, compact, and ergonomic. I love having 4 different speed and operating modes, and independent LED worklight controls.

If I had to describe this impact in one word, it’d be smooooooth. It’s still loud, but its loudness is softer than a lot of other impact drivers.

It’s a pleasure to use. It’s the best impact driver I’ve used, and with a regular price of $400 for the kit, which comes with (2) 3.0Ah compact Li-ion battery packs, it had better be!

Price: $382-400

Buy Now(via Amazon)
Buy Now(via Acme Tool)

Tekton Screwdriver Set

Tekton’s USA-made screwdrivers are great screwdrivers for the money!

I don’t like these as much as more premium USA-made and European-made screwdrivers. But it’s hard to argue with the price.

Some users won’t love the handle ergonomics, but I find them to be comfortable.

Right now, the 10-piece set is most economical. Shown above is the 8-piece set, a still very good bargain.

Price: $25-30

Buy Now(via Amazon)

Proto 90-Tooth Ratchet

Proto recently came out with new 90-tooth ratchets with 4° swing arcs. There’s a range of sizes and styles (e.g. short, long, flex-head, black oxide, etc.).

One just arrived for testing, but I won’t have feedback immediately ready. I can tell you this – if I had to give up my ratchets, my Proto Big Dawgs would be among the last to go.

I bought a 3/8″ ratchet in great condition on an enthusiast forum, and asked my father pick up a 1/4″ version from Grainger. They’re simply lovely.

The standard length full polish 3/8″ ratchet, J5249HTC, isn’t cheap, but industrial-grade tools rarely are. Here’s Proto’s PDF sales flyer, if you want to learn more fast. I’m working on a hands-on preview, but it’ll be at least a few more days.

If I were looking for a new ratchet and wanted USA-made strength and precision, this is probably the one I’d buy. I’d probably wait a little for the price to soften, or for a great discount promo.

Price: $115

Buy Now(via Zoro)

Gerber Center Drive Multi-Tool

Gerber’s new Center Drive multi-tool features quick-access pliers, a large one-handed-access knife, rotatable and replaceable wire cutting blades, and a full-sized centered screwdriver bit holder.

It’s not quite as elegant as the Leatherman OHT multi-tool that I reviewed and continue to use, but it is arguably more functional.

The Gerber Center Drive was designed to be better than the Leatherman in every way, and I think it is, but I tend to prefer the OHT better. I think. Personal preferences aside, I think the Center Drive is a fantastic tool. It’s also more jobsite-focused, rather than tactically themed, a big plus in my book.

Price: $90

Buy Now(via Amazon)

Ryobi Cordless Glue Gun

Ryobi came out with an 18V cordless glue gun, and it sells for $30.

*thumbs up* to Ryobi – this is a great tool for everyone who uses hot glue adhesive, or has been thinking about it. Cordless for the win.

Price: $30

Buy Now(via Home Depot)

PB Swiss Color-Coded Hex Keys

I tend to work with a lot of hex fasteners, and upgraded to a few loose PB Swiss hex keys a few years ago. Then I bought a color-coded imperial ball hex set when it first came out. After that, I bought a small set of ball end metric hex keys, like the one shown here. It was the 212LH-5 RB set, to be exact.

Last holiday season, I bought some more.

PB Swiss hex keys are pricy, but they’re superb. I have yet to run into a problem with them. I’ve had issues with other brands, with hex keys not fitting quality fasteners, getting stuck, deforming, and wearing too quickly.

With these PB Swiss hex keys, they fit well, can handle more torque than I should use on a ball hex end. The color coating isn’t indestructible, but holds up well.

Price: $37 (for the 1.5 to 5mm set shown)

Buy Now(via Amazon)

Wera Bit Ratchet

Wera’s bit ratchet is teeny tiny, but oh so very useful.

I bought a Bit-Check, which comes with the ratchet, Rapidaptor bit holder, 28 screwdriver bits, a 1/4″ hex to square drive adapter, and a fantastic compact case. It has been absolutely indispensable over the years. I’ve tried some other tiny bit ratchets, but I like the Wera one the best.

You can get just the ratchet for $29.

Price: $29 to 90

Buy Now(via Amazon)
See Also(via KC Tool) – Remember their ToolGuyd 10% coupon!

I think a “tool-check” might also be in the cards for me at some point. It comes with the ratchet, Rapidaptor bit holder, screwdriver handle, sockets (imperial or metric), a selection of screwdriver bits, and a larger case. The imperial set is $85 via Amazon, and the metric set is $84.

If I were to buy a set these days, I would want to find the same as what I own for $65, or I’d upgrade to the “tool-check” for $85. Or maybe I’d get a smaller one that’s easier to slip into a pocket, but having the bit ratchet, Rapidaptor bit holder extension, and bits in the same case has been mighty convenient.

Channellock Adjustable Wrench

I don’t think my father has ever used the Channellock adjustable wrenches I gave him, or the Irega ones I found at a tool liquidator (Irega makes Channellock’s wrenches as well as their own), but I’d buy them for him again in a heartbeat.

They’re strong and comfortable to use. You could get several made-in-China adjustable wrenches for less money, but I consider this a worthy upgrade.

Price: $22 (for the 8-inch with CodeBlue cushion grip handle)

Buy Now(8-inch via Amazon)

Bosch Laser Distance Measuring Tool

Once someone new to laser distance measuring tools stops making *pew* *pew* laser noises, they realize that it’s a great complement to tape measures. They measure over couches, across floors, through rooms, and over distances one couldn’t manage with a tape measure alone.

This Bosch GLM 10 is economical priced, easy to use, and accurate. If you want greater range and a backlit display, step up to the GLM 20 for $47-50.

Price: $30

Buy Now(GLM 10 via Amazon)

Bosch Layout Laser GLL 30

I had the pleasure of using the Bosch GLL 30 self-leveling cross line laser level this weekend. It’s remarkably easy to use, and comes with a small clamp that mates with its 1/4″ tripod socket.

Price: $60

Buy Now(via Amazon)

A Better Laser Level: Bosch GLL 55

I also had the pleasure to use the Bosch GLL 55 recently, which I found to be more visible on a sunlit wall. Unless you’re on a tighter budget, the GLL 55 is much more capable than the GLL 30. It has some accessories I don’t need, and lacks the GLL 30’s clamp, but I was able to use some photography accessories to mount it to a pole.

I’m sold on Bosch’s cross-line lasers.

Price: $129

Buy Now(via Amazon)

Husky 60″ Mobile Workbench

Husky recently came out with a new 60-inch mobile workbench with pegboard backwall. I’ve been testing the other model, which is seemingly identical but with different casters, no backwall, and currently $100 higher priced.

I could very enthusiastically recommend the 60″ mobile workbench. And since this version gives you more for less money, I’d say take the added features and ignore them if you don’t need them. The pegboard assembly is removable, in case you want a 2″ shallower depth.

With or without that pegboard, the worktop is 24″ deep. Nice!

Don’t worry about that huge full-width drawer sagging (or at least I don’t) – there are drawer slides on both sides, plus a third one at the center on the bottom. This way you get anti-sag reinforcement, and extra sliding support.

Milwaukee’s version is also on sale for $598. It has slightly less depth and a different configuration, plus different accessories. Which one to buy? The Husky gives you more for the money, but maybe you prefer Milwaukee’s configuration and color scheme.

If you can’t decide, I’d throw my vote to the Husky.

Price: $598

Buy Now(via Home Depot)
Compare(Milwaukee Mobile Workbench)

Dewalt 8V Max Gryo Screwdriver

I’ve been using Dewalt’s 8V Max gyroscopic cordless screwdriver, and it’s a neat helper for light-duty tasks, such as assembling Ikea furniture.

Price: $69 for the 1-battery kit

Buy Now(via Amazon)

Better: Dewalt 8V Pivoting Screwdriver

I wish I knew where my Dewalt 8V Max pivoting gyroscopic screwdriver test sample was. Like the inline model I previously mentioned, you squeeze the trigger and then turn the handle in the direction you want the fastener to turn. It’s really a great way to control speed and direction, and although I’ve made some mistakes and miscalculations in how hard I’ve turned the driver, things always turned out well.

Here’s my review of the Dewalt 8V gyroscopic pivoting handle screwdriver, from the summer of 2013.

In addition to the 2-position handle, this model (DCF680) also has an adjustable clutch. I’d say go for the 2-battery kit ($89), and also the Dewalt 8V Max LED flashlight ($22 via Amazon).

Not that I don’t like the inline gyroscopic screwdriver, but this version is simply better featured, and I’ve missed those features.

Price: $79-89

Buy Now(via Amazon)

TadPole Tape Cutter Attachments

The Tadpole tape cutter is a little strap-on cutter that makes it easier to size tape that comes from dispenser-less rolls.

I bought one of each size, and will be reviewing them sometime soon.

They’re made in the USA, and what appealed to me is that they’re compact and easy to attach and remove. You could use one for packaging tape one minute, duct tape the next, and then transition seamlessly to masking tape.

There are 3 sizes, corresponding to 1″, 1.5″, and 2″ nominally.

Price: $6-7 each

Buy Now(via Amazon)
See Also(via Lee Valley)

When I first started writing this post, there was a 3-piece set for $16. I would have recommended that set, and would have bought it too if it had been available when I ordered my 3 sizes separately. It looks to have sold out, and there’s no word as to whether Amazon will stock the value-priced set again.

Sjobergs Smart Workstation Pro Vise with Beech Workbench Top

Sjobergs took their Smart Vise portable bench vise, and upgraded it in every way. This new version is made from knot-free European beech. From the images and 50% greater weight, the Sjobergs Smart Workstation Pro vise looks to be a lot sturdier, too.

While not inexpensive, this is one of the better ways I’ve seen to get a functional woodworking vise and worktop (albeit a small one) without a lot of time or elbow grease.

I haven’t tried it in person, but enough requests can get me to spring for one to check out. If I was very tight on space and time, this would be high up on my wishlist.

Price: $235+ shipping

Buy Now(via Amazon)
Buy Now(via Rockler)

Kershaw Pub Sinkevich Utility Compact Pocket Knife

Aww, look at this cute little guy. It’s a compact knife (1.6″ blade) that also has a carabiner keychain attachment (when closed), pry bar, bottle opener, and screwdriver tip.

It’s a small but functional-looking mini blade-centered multi-tool.

Ooh – there’s a carbon fiber-handled version too, for $20.

Price: $16-17+

Buy Now(via Amazon)
Buy Now(via BladeHQ)

Gearward Keychain Ductape Holder

Before you scoff at the $20 price for these Gearward USA-made compact keychain duct tape holders, I’d encourage you see how much Atwood’s “Roll Bar” sold for ($48).

Available in brass or stainless steel, the Gearward duct tape holder keychain holds around 18″ of Gorilla Tape, or 24″ of Gaffer’s tape. this is plenty for lots of “I need some tape, FAST” on-the-go situations.

I bought one for review, and consider it a very handy EDC accessory. It’s not an essential piece of gear, but it does make it easier to carry and dispense tape.

Some should save the $23 and simply roll some tape around a dowel rod, cut-down pen barrel, or other low-cost core.

This little tape holder is the type of product that costs just a little too much to be comfortable about, which makes it a very good gift item. I’d buy this for someone else, and it’s the type of thing I might have wanted as an EDC gift.

If you’ve got a good-sized metal lathe and good tooling, you can make this yourself. But I don’t, and I can’t.

I’ve been pining for an Atwood roll bar for a long time, but I wouldn’t buy one even if they were available now in plentiful stock.

This Gearward doohicky is less elegant in comparison, but it’s perfectly functional, and not in the least bit bad-looking.

Price: $20 plus $3 shipping

Buy Now(via Gearward)

Porter Cable Multi-Material Circular Saw

I saw this Porter Cable Multi-Material circular saw at a nearby Lowes when I went scouting for early Father’s Day deals.

It has a 3.5″ blade and comes with different blades for cutting wood, metal, and tile. It’s priced at $99, which places it in direct competition with Rockwell’s Versacut and mini circular saw.

I like the looks of the design, but the laser indicator has me rolling my eyes a little bit. It’s not the laser indicator by itself – the LASER labeling on the laser housing partially contributed to that eye-roll.

The saw also features a pivoting blade guard system, vacuum hose adapter, tool-free depth adjustment (this was highlighted feature on the box), and an ergonomic-looking grip.

My biggest concern would be replacement blade availability, something that a Lowes.com reviewer apparently shares in. 3-3/8″ blades are available from a number of brands. 3.5″? Not so much that I can see.

Still, this looks like a handy light duty saw to potentially look into.

Price: $99

Buy Now(via Lowes)
See Also(Rockwell Versacut via Amazon)

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Hot Deal: New Bosch GLM 10, a Lower Cost Laser Distance Measuring Tool The Perfect Tool Kit (2019 Edition) A New Small Dewalt Laser Distance Measuring Tool for $50

Over at Amazon, there are 2 Deals of the Days worth mentioning – Dewalt FlexVolt batteries and power tool accessories are on sale, and a selection of Mora knives.

Both deals are valid today, 6/13/2017, thru 3am ET 6/14, unless supplies sell out sooner.

Dewalt FlexVolt Deals

• 2x 6.0Ah FlexVolt batteries + 1x 9.0Ah battery for $249
• 2x 6.0Ah FlexVolt batteries + Fast Charger for $179

There are also some FlexVolt power tool accessories on sale. The pricing looks okay, but I think the FlexVolt battery bundles are the “big deal” of the deal.

They also have the 9.0Ah battery back in stock, 2 for $249.

Buy Now(via Amazon)

Mora knives are also on sale, today only. The ones I know best, the stainless steel Mora Companion knives, are on sale for a few dollars off.

These are great general purpose knives, and also make for great gifts. They might be especially useful for gardening and some outdoor tasks, at least the stainless steel version.

Buy Now(via Amazon)

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Dewalt FlexVolt Battery Pack Pricing New Dewalt 12.0Ah Cordless Power Tool Battery (FlexVolt/20V Max) Dewalt FlexVolt Brushless Circular Saw First Look

Leatherman came out with their Tread series of multi-tool bracelets a little over 2-1/2 years ago, offering a multi-tool you can wear on your wrist throughout your travels.

At the time, Tread QM1 watches were announced, but they never made it to market.

Leatherman is now introducing the Tread Tempo watches, which appear to have been completely redesigned as far as aesthetics go, and it sits atop a new slimmer multi-tool bracelet, the Tread LT.

The Tread LT is said to be 20% narrower and 10% lighter than the original Tread – a welcome change.

My initial take on the Tread was somewhat positive, but I never found myself actually wanting to test it very much after that. It turned out to be too large and bulky – wider and heavier than my largest metal-banded watch.

With the Tread LT being 20% slimmer and 10% lighter, it just might be less intrusive to wear. The Tread Tempo watch design certainly at least looks more appealing.

The Leatherman Tread Tempto will be available in black or with a bare stainless steel finish.

The Tread Tempto watch band is said to have 6 links, and another 3 are included in the box. A press release I found says it includes:

• 3/32″ Screwdriver
• 6mm Hex Drive
• 4mm Hex Drive
• #3 Square Drive
• #1 Square Drive
• Pozi-Driv #3
• 8mm Box Wrench
• Pozi-Driv #2
• 11mm Box Wrench

Each bit, like on the original Tread, has several functions.

The Tread Tempo is water resistant to 200 meters (~656 feet). Links offer 1/4″ and 1/2″ adjustments, and the band offers 1/8″ adjustments.

Leatherman says the watch is perfect for the job site, through airport security, or out on the town.

MSRP: $575

The Tread LT is, as mentioned, smaller and lighter than the original Tread multi-tool bracelets.

Like the Tempo, it’s available in bare stainless steel and black finish versions.

Tools include:

• 3/32″ Screwdriver
• Cutting Hook
• 6mm Hex Drive
• 4mm Hex Drive
• 8mm Box Wrench
• #3 Square Drive
• #1 Square Drive
• Pozi-Driv #2
• 11mm Box Wrench
• #2 Square Drive
• Bottle Opener

The published tool list doesn’t seem to accurately portray what I can see in product images, but it’s the only info I could find. I haven’t been in touch with Leatherman’s media or press contacts since they had another changeover in 2016, and no one else is answering my emails.

All I could find was a single price point. The original Tread costs more for the black version, but there’s no indication that’s the case here or not.

MSRP: $175

First Thoughts

The new Leatherman Tread LT definitely looks less chunky than the original.

I found the original Tread to work exactly as intended – you can take it off your wrist and use it on the spot – but it just wasn’t practical enough for me to adopt as an everyday tool, or even as a travel tool.

I argued against critical readers’ claims that it’s just man-jewelry, but I ultimately gravitated towards that same side of the discussion. I found it to be more a conversation piece than handy multi-tool – and that’s okay, but it’s definitely not as practical as I allowed myself to believe.

This new Leatherman Tread LT and Tempo watch definitely look like they’ll be more comfortable to wear, but it’s hard to say.

Forgive me if I sound hesitant. I grew disenchanted with the full-size Tread multi-tool bracelets, and I’m not letting myself get too excited about these new ones.

Amazon reviews of the original Tread seem to be overwhelming positive. I have smaller wrists, and it could be that my review sample was just too large. I tend to have no problem with most watches, but the comically large ones would never work for me. You know, like Diesel’s large watches that can be found in some department stores.

Related Posts:

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I recently purchased a Pelican 3310PL LED flashlight.

Most of the flashlight’s housing is made from a photoluminescent plastic, making it easy to locate when the lights go out. It would be accurate to describe this flashlight as a fairly substantial chunk of glow-in-the-dark material.

It’s also waterproof, to IPX8 (submersible) standards, and quite bright.

I was searching for a small Pelican or Pelican-like case when I first learned about the 3310ELS emergency lighting station, which consists of a mountable case and the aforementioned 3310 flashlight.

I was interested, but I don’t need a wall mount. Luckily, I found that the 3310 was available by itself, as the 3310PL.

The one I ordered had lesser published specs, but what I received was the latest version of the flashlight.

• Up to 378 lumens
• 39 lumens at low, 378 lumens at high
• 202 hrs runtime at low, 8 hr runtime at high
• Polycarbonate lens
• Photoluminescent polycarbonate body

There’s also a strobe mode.

It measures 6.4″ long and weighs 6.2 oz with batteries (3AA). The batteries are pre-installed, requiring removal of a disposable plastic spacer to get things ready.

I am very impressed with the photoluminescent material. It’s so powerful that I was able to get some green glow action on my desk with the room light on.

Here it is charged up an Elzetta LED flashlight on high.

There are some other aspects to note.

The battery door has a partial-turn locking mechanism, with an O-ring providing waterproofing. It’s not the most comfortable battery door design I’ve seen, but it’s clever and gets the job done. You can lock the battery door closed with a quarter-turn of a slotted screwdriver.

Don’t have a screwdriver handy? There’s a plastic one built into the included wrist strap.

It also has built-in battery door retention. They thought of everything!

The Pelican 3310 LED flashlight itself is chunky in design, which is good for a flashlight you’re meant to use in the dark. Its body is rectangular and impossible to roll, although it can slide around on a flat surface.

The flashlight throws a large and somewhat uniform illumination circle with a very bright hot spot at the center. It’s not that great for an everyday light, but would be quite suitable as an emergency or outdoors light.

It is brighter in its low output mode than 39 lumens would suggest, but I’m guessing that’s because it has such a small and focused centered spot light.

This is one of the utilitarian flashlights I’ve ever used. It’s easy to spot in the dark, and has a usable beam profile for emergency situations, especially outdoors. It has a high water ingress protection rating, and is powered by common AA batteries.

Price: ~$30 and up

It’s out of stock at the moment on Amazon, but their price is good if you don’t mind waiting a bit for it to ship.

Buy Now(via Amazon)
See Also(Pelican Emergency Lighting Station)

There’s also a non-glow version, but… why? As mentioned, I wouldn’t want this as an everyday flashlight, and so why not opt for glow in the dark?

I need to do some more testing, such as to see if it’ll stay charged throughout the night. But since it glows in the light after being charged with another flashlight, I’m not too concerned. Still, it’s more of a “oh no, the power just went out, where’s the flashlight?!” kind of flashlight.

With that in mind, I don’t regret my purchasing decision one bit.

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TEC Accessories is a specialty brand that makes EDC (everyday carry) keychains, accessories, and other such random utility and everyday convenience products.

I was browsing their site the other day when I came across the BOT-L-BIT, a 1/4″ hex bit bottle opener.

Basically, it turns any screwdriver bit holder into a bottle opener. It stores away with your regular 1/4″ bits, and so it doesn’t take up a lot of extra space in your pocket, pouch, drawer, tool bag, or junk drawer. Assuming you have some screwdriver bits and a bit driver near where you’d normally pop open crown cork-capped bottle.

(I had to look that up, discovering for the first time that those pryable metal caps are called crown corks.)

Part of me wanted to order one of these ASAP, the other part of me wonders if the $6 is better spent on a keychain bottle opener, or a novelty screwdriver-handled one.

But it’s not just useful as a bottle opener. TEC shows that it can be used as a scraper, paint can lid opener, and package opener.

Its appeal increases a bit when you consider that it has other multi-functional purposes, aside from just being the prying part of a full bottle opener.

Price: $6 + Shipping

Buy Now(via TEC Accessories)

This is one of those things I’d keep on my wishlist until I was placing a larger order from TEC Accessories or one of their distributors. Otherwise it’s not worth paying shipping fees for.

If you’re looking for a nice compact screwdriver bit holder, I really like these Wera ones. Unfortunately, they’ve shot up in price in recent years – $20 on Amazon.

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Over at Leatherman, they have a couple of Black Friday deals that just went live.

As I believe I recently mentioned, Leatherman is a new ToolGuyd affiliate partner, and as such I received a nice email with a heads-up about their Black Friday deals. Otherwise, Leatherman would have been completely off my radar.

Some of these deals are really good. The 50% off select tools deal, for example? That’s a great deal!

So is the one shown just above. Spend $300, and get a $50 gift card for free.

Valid 11/24 to 11/27

Shop Now

This offer, for 50% off select Leatherman tools, features pocketable tools, such as 2 Juice tools and numerous one-piece tools.

Shipping is free on $50+ orders. I’m probably going to take advantage of this deal.

Valid 11/24 to 11/27

Buy Now

There’s also a promo where you can save 20% on the Leatherman Skeletool, Sidekick, and Wingman multi-tools.

The blue and green Skeletools are the better deals, beating out retailers’ prices, even Amazon’s! I am definitely ordering one.

There used to be good deals on Skeletool, Wingman, and Sidekick multi-tools. This year, the deal is on the Rev entry-level multi-tool at Home Depot.

Valid 11/24 to 12/20

Buy Now

Check out our Leatherman Skeletool multi-tool review!

Compare: Skeletool  |  Sidekick |  Wingman (via Amazon)

As mentioned, the Rev is Home Depot’s gift center Leatherman deal this year.

Price: $25

Buy Now(via Home Depot)

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The Gerber Center-Drive multi-tool made in the USA and usually priced at $89 is on sale for $59 right now.

Earlier today, someone mentioned seeing it discounted in their Amazon cart and buying one on the spot. I checked, and saw a price of $85. That reflects a small discount from the regular price, but isn’t enough of a discount to get hot and bothered about.

I popped on my computer to do some work, and went to close the still-open browser window that showed the Gerber Center-Drive product page from earlier. I reloaded the page just to see if the price has changed, and it did!

This is a good tool. Gerber sent over a test sample, and while I do like it, it’s been difficult to find the right words to recommend it. It’s not my favorite, but it is a tool I do and would use. At $59, it’s a great buy! I’d buy a couple for giveaways and gifts at this price, but am afraid of what it might do to Amazon’s pricing algorithm.

I don’t know how long the multi-tool will be priced at $59 for.

Check out my preview if you want to learn more.

Sale Price: $59

Buy Now(via Amazon)

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I keep waiting for a good Leatherman Skeletool multi-tool deal, but haven’t found one yet. But what I did find was good pricing on Leatherman multi-tool and knife combo gift sets.

I bought one of these knives in the Fall, for $25. With that in mind, I think these gift sets are a good value, despite not being as good as previous years’ Skeletol multi-tool-only holiday sales.

But, even if the Skeletool multi-tool were on sale, it’s highly likely that it would have only been on the standard stainless steel model. It’s rare to find deals on colored versions of Leatherman multi-tools.

Over at Amazon, a 3rd party retailer has several new Leatherman Skeletool multi-tool and Skeletool KBX knife bundle packs up, and priced at $60.

While not a great deal, it at least looks like a good one. If you look at colored Leatherman tools, than this deal does look a lot better. The Skeletool multi-tool in blue, green, or black, is $50 by itself.

You have your choice of blue, green, black, or stainless finish.

Price: $60 with free shipping

Buy Now: Blue | Black | Green | Stainless
Compare(Skeletool in Columbia Blue)
Compare(Skeletool KBX Knife)

P.S. The Gerber Center Drive multi-tool is still on sale for $59.

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Zero Tolerance has introduced several new folding pocket knives this year, at the 2018 SHOT Show.

I’m a big fan of Zero Tolerance knives. Their products are strong, durable, and built to handle much more than I could ever expose them to with my usual everyday use. Zero Tolerance knives re top-notch.

That said, this year’s new ZT knives look a little too stylized for my liking. But that’s no reason not to mention them.

I think my favorite Zero Tolerance knife is the 0450, reviewed here. It’s a slim and compact EDC knife that’s nicely designed and manufactured.

Zero Tolerance 0609

The new 0609, based on the larger ZT 0606CF from RJ Martin and Matt Martin, is said to offer a clean, streamlined look yet also has highly detailed handle machining that adds both grip and visual impact.

The 3.4″ blade is made from CPM 20CV, which according to Crucible’s data sheet (PDF) provides for exceptionally good wear resistance as well as outstanding corrosion resistance.

CPM 20CV is considered to be a premium powder metallurgy stainless steel that gives knives good toughness and high edge retention.

The 0609 is the smallest and lightest of the new Zero Tolerance knives for this year.

It’s a manual opener with KVT ball-bearing flipper opening system. The large pivot is hollow, allowing you to see through the center.

• Blade: 3.4 in. (8.6 cm)
• Steel: CPM 20CV
• Blade finish: stonewashed & satin finish
• Frame lock
• Reversible pocket clip
• Handle: Titanium, anodized bronze
• Closed Length: 4.25 in. (10.8 cm)
• Overall Length: 7.4 in. (19.1 cm)
• Weight: 3.3oz. (95 g)

Street Price: $220

Buy Now(via BladeHQ)

Zero Tolerance 0393

The new ZT 0393 knife is based on Rick Hinderer’s Maximus knife, and features a harpoon-style “spanto”-like blade shape.

The blade shape is said to offer maximum cutting power, with the tip being sturdy enough for piercing tasks.

It features a G10 overlay handle on top of a blue-anodized titanium handle.

Zero Tolerance says that the 0393 will accept certain Hinderer accessories, allowing for some user customizations.

• Blade Length: 3.5 in. (8.9 cm)
• Steel: CPM 20CV
• Blade finish: Two-tone satin/BlackWash DLC finish
• Titanium frame lock, hardened steel lockbar insert
• Reversible pocket clip
• Handle: Titanium, blue anodized, with machined G10 overlay
• Closed Length: 4.75 in. (12.1 cm)
• Overall Length: 8.25 in. (20 cm)
• Weight: 5 oz. (142 g)

Street Price: $240

Buy Now(via BladeHQ)

Zero Tolerance 0462

The new ZT 0462 is the new big brother to last year’s 0460 knife. It features a 3.75″ CPM 20CV blade with an upswept shape.

The front handle is made from colored carbon fiber, with a “deep-red weave of color” that doesn’t seem to show up very well in online product images.

The 0462 seems to be fairly lightweight for such a long-bladed knife.

• Blade: 3.7 in. (9.3 cm)
• Steel: CPM 20CV
• Blade Finish: Stonewashed & satin finish
• Frame lock
• Reversible pocket clip
• Handle: Red carbon fiber composite front, stonewashed titanium back
• Closed Length: 5.25 in. (13.3 cm)
• Overall Length: 8.9 in. (22.5 cm)
• Weight: 3.7 oz. (107 g)

Street Price: $240

Buy Now(via BladeHQ)

Zero Tolerance 0801TI

I recommended the Zero Tolerance 0801 back in December of 2013. I hand’t reviewed it, because there were other knives at the time that I thought were of greater reader interest.

The 0801 was and continues to be a nice knife.

Last year, Zero Tolerance updated the design, with the 0801Ti. Them main difference seems to be a new handle design with cut-outs and grooves near the edges.

I think I like the new look. You do save a bit of weight, too, but the 0.2 ounce difference, or 3.45% reduction in weight, will likely be hardly noticeable.

• Blade: 3.5 in. (8.9 cm)
• Steel: S35VN
• Blade Finish: Stonewashed finish
• Frame lock
• Reversible deep carry pocket clip
• Handle: Titanium, bead-blasted finish
• Closed Length: 4.7 in. (11.9 cm)
• Overall Length: 8.2 in. (20.8 cm)
• Weight: 5.6 oz. (158.6 g)

If I were to buy a new Zero Tolerance knife this year, it would be this one, the 0801Ti. But since I have taken more of an interest in smaller knives, that seems unlikely. Unless there is very strong interest in a review of this model, I’d rather use the same review sample budget on 2-3 more affordable knives.

Street Price: $200

Buy Now(via BladeHQ)

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The Gent knife is an odd product to talk about. It’s designed by Ferrum Forge, a USA-based high-end knifemaker whose products I fancy but are too pricey for me, produced by MassDrop, and manufactured by WE Knives.

I previously wrote about a knife I purchased from MassDrop. MassDrop can best be described as a “group buy” retailer. You commit to a product at a price, or flat out order it, they take your money, and some time in the future you get your product. Sometimes it ships out very quickly, other times you have to wait a few weeks or months. In that way it’s like a preorder program.

WE Knives is a Chinese-based knifemaker. I bought a Gent during their first release, and another WE-made knife, and am pretty pleased with the quality.

Okay, so just so we’re clear on what the Gent is, it’s a folding knife that’s produced by MassDrop, designed by Ferrum Forge, and made by WE Knives.

And it’s a really nice knife. I’ve used mine a bit, and I like it so much that I ordered another one, in blue. When I ordered my first Gent knife, it was only available in black.

The MassDrop Gent is a smaller-sized EDC knife, with a 3″ blade made from CPM-35VN stainless steel. While I’m describing it as a small knife, it’s not very small. It’s comfortably small, while being large enough to be useful.

That statement could get me into trouble too. My Spyderco Techno, reviewed here, has a 2.55″ knife blade. Now that’s a small knife. The Benchmade mini Griptilian, reviewed here, and its earlier version, also reviewed here, have 2.91″ blades, and are among my favorite everyday-use knives.

For me, 2.5″ is small, 3″ is mid-sized, 3.5″ is large, and 4″ is generally too big for me to EDC or even use casually.

The Gent has a drop-point blade shape, frame lock design, titanium handles, and G10 scales. Its deep-carry pocket clip is reversible.

I like my Gent, and had been meaning to give it a full review treatment, but this new MassDrop “drop” is only open for a limited time.

There are 3 color options now – black, olive green, and blue.

Price: $79.99

Shipping is free.

Order Deadline: 3/31/2018 (or around there – 3/11/18 plus 20 days)
ETA: Apr 30, 2018

Buy Now(via MassDrop)
Sign Up(MassDrop)

MassDrop is one of those “members-only” shopping sites, but it’s free to join. They say this is necessary because their agreements require that they hide product prices from search engines. The link above is my “refer a friend” link. I didn’t know what the reward was (I think it used to be a box of swag), but apparently a couple of readers signed up through my link in the Spyderco post and I saved a few dollars off my order of a blue Gent.

I was a little surprised, but the Gent doesn’t have any Ferrum Forge branding, only a small MassDrop logo on the blade. I guess that makes sense. Knife collaborations don’t typically have the designers’ marks on them.

While $80 seems like a bit much, I’ve been really pleased with the quality of the Gent knife. It seems to be reasonably priced, and its price is reflective of its decent quality.

There are some compromises in the design, but if you’re not a knife enthusiast you might not notice them if I don’t point them out. The Gent doesn’t have much flair, but that adds to its appeal, in my opinion.

This isn’t Ferrum Forge’s first knife with MassDrop, or their first WE Knives knife, and so I ordered my first Gent without much concern or hesitation.

This is a good flipper knife, one of the best for under $100 at that.

If you want a good flipper knife for less money, check out the Kershaw Dividend knife, reviewed here. That’s a spectacular knife, and made in the USA, too.

Compared to the Gent, the Dividend is made with less premium blade steel and less premium handle materials. The Dividend is also an assisted opener while the Gent is a manual flipper.

I still have a Gent review in the works, but if you have questions, I can try to answer them here, before the current Gent MassDrop sales period ends.

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Leatherman has made a small but significant change to their Wave, Charge, and Charge TTi multi-tools. Each now features new pliers jaws, with user-replaceable wire cutter blades. The new versions are named Wave Plus, Charge Plus, and Charge Plus TTi.

Previously, these pliers had fixed jaws. Mangle the cutting edge by using them on something too hard, and it would scar your pliers for the life of the tool.

Here are the jaws of my Leatherman Wave, reviewed here. I use them occasionally, but only on copper wire and other soft materials. I never used them on things like piano wire, for fear of permanently damaging and deforming them.

This is what the new Leatherman Wave Plus looks like. It has all the same great tools and features, but you now get replaceable wire cutter blade inserts.

Many of Leatherman’s heavy duty tools, such as the OHT (reviewed here), and Rebar (reviewed here) feature these replaceable wire cutter blades as well.

I can’t say I have had to replace any of my wire cutter blade inserts yet, but I do use the tools on more risky materials, knowing that I can.

Leatherman’s mid-sized multi-tool prices have increased in recent years, but they’re still the best multi-tools I’ve used.

Check out our multi-tool reviews

Buy Now(Wave Plus via Amazon)
Buy Now(Charge Plus via Amazon)
Buy Now(Charge TTi Plus via Amazon)

Buy Now(via Leatherman)

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Over at Amazon, the Kershaw Leek pocket knife, reviewed here, is on sale today, for $24. There are other varieties also on sale today, as part of a Deal of the Day.

The Kershaw Leek has a 3″ blade, SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism, and safety lock. This is a fantastic pocket knife, perfect for EDC (everyday carry), and a wide range of cutting tasks.

Update (12:00pm ET): It looks to be out of stock.
Update (1:30pm ET): Back in stock!!

I called the Leek a “gateway” knife in the title, because it was my first “real” pocket knife. I had a couple of Gerber knives before this one, but my experience with the Leek was different, and it started me down the path of becoming an enthusiast.

This isn’t the best knife out there, but you get phenomenal value for the money. It’s a good knife at an entry-level price.

Check out my review if you want to learn more.

Regular Price: $36-$40
Sale Price: $24

Buy Now(via Amazon)
See Also(Other Leek Styles on Sale)

I bought my Leek for $38 back in 2009. I bought a green aluminum-handled one for $30 when it was on sale in December 2016. The average price seems to be $36 or so, $32 is a good sale price, $30 is better, $24 is “why haven’t you bought one yet?!” pricing.

Deal ends at 3am ET 3/22/2018, unless supplies sell out sooner.

Assisted opening mechanisms are NOT automatic. You should still learn your local knife regulations before carrying a tool like this with you.

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I previously wrote about Field Notes’ cherry wood veneer-covered notebooks, and have remained a fan of the brand.

It’s time for me to order some new pocket notepads, and so I took a look to see if there were any new styles. Well, apparently a new Utility style notepad was released last year.

The Field Notes Utility notepads feature a built-in flip-out ruler, and your choice of ledger-style or 1/8″ engineer grid paper. So, record-keeping rulings or small-sized graph paper.

It was almost interesting enough for a post. But then I saw their promo video. I don’t even know what to say about it, but here it is:

I loved the part where they’re trying to get the paint back in the bucket.

You can find the Utility notebooks at Field Notes’ store, for $12.95 for a 3-pack. Each has 48 pages.

Buy Now(via Field Notes)
See Also(Field Notes Ruled Memo Books via Amazon)

I’m probably going to just get regular ruled memo books this time around. The cherry-covered graph paper books were quite good, too.

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I’m the kind of person that saves things for future use. “No, no, this use isn’t important enough for that consumable item, I’ll save it for later.”

I did this as a kid, as a young adult, and I still do it now, although at least now I’m conscious enough to fight the inclination.

I have used the tweezers on my Victorinox Swiss Army knives, and my wife’s, but I don’t think I have ever used the toothpick. What if it gets worn? Grossly dirty? Lost?

But now I know that replacements are easily available, making me more inclined to use them.

Replacement tweezers are also available, in small and large sizes, depending on whether you have a keychain-sized tool or full-sized one.

Knowing that I can order replacement parts makes me more inclined to use these accessories more heavily on my tools, or at least with less hesitation.

Buy Now(Replacement Toothpicks via Amazon)
Buy Now(Replacement Small Tweezers via Amazon)
Buy Now(Replacement Large Tweezers via Amazon)

The replacement tools (accessories?) are available in 6-packs, for $5-7.

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Over at Home Depot, today’s deal of the day features a selection of Milwaukee tools.

One of the Milwaukee tool deals took me by surprise – their 3″ Hardline flipper folding knife is on sale for just $25. This is a pretty good knife, and that is a fantastic price.

Here are the deals:

• M18 7pc cordless combo kit: $399 – here’s the discussion post
• M18 brushless hammer drill, impact driver, and free hackzall: $229
• 100pc Shockwave impact-rated screwdriver bit set: $24
• 10″ torpedo level: $25
• Hardline 3″ EDC pocket knife: $25
• 9pc Hole Dozer hole saw kit: $25

Buy Now(via Home Depot)

Deal ends at 3am ET 4/3/2018, unless supplies sell out sooner.

Thank you to Mosh for the heads-up!

Related Posts:

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Eli wrote in with a tough question – he’s looking for the perfect pocketable multi-bit screwdriver for everyday use, one that he can use equally well in a crawlspace or at the top of an antenna tower.

He purchased a Wera Kraftform Kompakt 25, and is fond of the design, except for the large handle size and limited bit storage capacity.

In his email, Eli mentioned my affinity for the PB Swiss Insider, which I reviewed many years ago, here.

Here are some of Eli’s preferences for the perfect pocketable screwdriver:

• Locking bit holder, or at least a really strong magnet
• No longer than 6″, under 5″ is ideal
• Built-in storage for at least 3-4 standard-sized screwdriver bits
• Handle 1-1/4″ wide or smaller
• Extending shaft is preferred but not required

I’ve been trying to figure out an answer for Eli, but my thoughts on this one are an absolute mess. If anyone was hoping for a clear answer, I’m sorry to disappoint. But, there are a couple of nearly-perfect pocketable screwdrivers that might fit the bill.

I love my PB Swiss Insider screwdriver, but there is one sour point; the bit cartridge end cap can loosen up if you use the screwdriver a certain way. It’s a minor annoyance, and it doesn’t happen every time I use the screwdriver.

I have come to believe that this shouldn’t be a problem for a screwdriver that regularly retails for $40.

I really want to see a slide-out bit holder on the Insider, similar to the Insider Stubby. The Stubby is too small for regular use, or it’d be near perfect.

The PB Swiss Insider 2 is much better than the Insider. It can hold more bits and its bit cartridge is secure when you’re using the tool. The Insider 2 is only available in black, but maybe it will eventually come out in more colors.

The Insider 2 came out on 2010. I finally bought one, in late 2016. Why did I wait so long? It costs too much for what it is, regularly priced at ~$60.

There is also the PB Swiss Insider 3, with ratcheting mechanism, available in short and long shaft versions.

I like the Insider 2 and 3 very much, and they’re on my review queue. But their price points are a bit hard to swallow. The original Insider regularly retails for $40 – a lot for a non-ratcheting screwdriver. But the Insider 2 costs even more – $60. The ratcheting Insider 3 is $90. If you’re not in a rush, it’s best to wait for the big Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals that come around every year.

I love the quality of PB Swiss’ 1/4″ hex screwdriver bits, but I do wish these screwdrivers were available with and without them. Being able to buy them without bits would make these screwdrivers quite a bit more affordable.

The Insider 2 and 3 screwdrivers each come with 10 bits, and you can swap them out for others if you so choose.

If you’re looking for the BEST EDC pocketable screwdriver at any cost, these nearly fit the bill.

Personally, I think the pricing is a little high for what you get. But, if it checks all your boxes and is something you would use every day, the over-time cost breakdown can be easier to justify.

I really like my Wera Kraftform Kompakt 25. I don’t often use it at home or in the workshop anymore, but it’s my go-to when on the go. When packing up a tool bag or box for off-site use, I’ll toss in the Wera driver, pouch and all, usually with a bunch of other bits.

It’s a clever and very versatile design, but it does have a chunky handle.

Wera makes small (but handy) narrow-handled bit holders, and I like mine a lot. They’re small screwdrivers – really small – and so they’re not going to be up to heavy duty or high-torque tasks. They also don’t have any built-in bit storage.

A couple of other compact multi-bit screwdrivers come to mind.

Read Also: The Best Multi-Bit Screwdriver? Here are 14 Recommendations

The Picquic SixPac is a decent tool. It’s not quite as nice to use as the PB Swiss Insider 2, and it works with long harder-to-find 1/4″ power-style screwdriver bits instead of 1/4″ hex 1″ insert bits.

But it’s far less expensive. You won’t cry if you accidentally drop it down a sewer grate.

There apparently was a stubby Megapro screwdriver (old Amazon listing), but it doesn’t seem to be sold anymore. The handle might have the deal-breaker, but we’ll never know. Megapro screwdriver handles tend to be chunky, but so are the PB Swiss and Wera picks discussed above.

The Picquic SixPac can be found for as little as $12 on Amazon. At the time of this posting, there’s a “clippable” $2 coupon that drops the price further.

PB Swiss Insider 2 vs Wera Kraftform Kompakt 25

In his email, Eli mentioned the Wera Kompakt 25 being too uncomfortable to carry in a pocket, even his cargo pants pocket. Well, it does come with a belt pouch.

The Wera Kompakt 25 checks off a lot of boxes, and is currently $32 on Amazon. That’s a lot for a multi-bit screwdriver, but isn’t too much of a leap upwards given the value of what you get.

I don’t know if I can recommend the PB Swiss Insider [1] as an alternative. I love how compact it is, and it’s great to use, except the occasional heavier use times when the bit cartridge loosens up and spins around a little.

Is the PB Swiss Insider 2 worth nearly double the price of the Wera? Objectively? No, but the price does get a lot better around Black Friday. If you ordered one around last Black Friday, it would have been around $41 after discount. It holds 4 more bits than the Wera, but it’s also still just a plastic-handled screwdriver.

You know, Kobalt’s compact multi-bit screwdrivers used to be decent. They didn’t have a lot of features, their removable bit cartridges were clunky, the ratcheting mechanisms were not high quality, and you had to be careful to not cross-thread their the end caps. But they were usable.

Please don’t think that I’m trying to say that everyone needs a $30+ EDC screwdriver and that nothing cheaper will do. In his email, Eli specifically asked about the Wera and PB Swiss Insider series. That’s what prompted this post, and why I keep revisiting those products.

Okay, so I dug out a few of the multi-bit screwdrivers and bit holders that I have within quick reach. There are others, but I don’t want to increase the scope of the comparison by too much.

I suppose you could consider these to be my current favorites.

From left to right:

• Wera mini bit holder
• PB Swiss bit holder screwdriver
• PB Swiss Insider 2
• Wera Kompakt 25 ($32 via Amazon)
• PB Swiss Insider 3 ratcheting screwdriver
• Volcanic Co. screwdriver

I couldn’t locate my PB Swiss Insider. It’s smaller than the Insider 2, and I’d say close to the size of the PB Swiss bit holding screwdriver.

Hmm. So it seems that the PB Swiss Insider 2 and Insider 3 handles are about as large as the widest part of the Wera Kraftform Kompakt 25 handle. I wouldn’t have thought that if I didn’t line them up together, something I don’t remember thinking to do before. I guess the Wera only looks and feels a little larger, possibly due to the geometry of the handle?

I’m starting to wonder if I should pull back on my recommendation for the Insider 2. It’s not any bit more pocketable, and while it can store more bits, it lacks the locking extendable bit holder of the Wera.

If the PB Swiss Stubby Insider were a little longer, it might best all the other options. But as it is, it’s too short for use as a general purpose screwdriver.

The Insider is a great pocketable screwdriver, but I don’t think it’s the best option for everyday field use. The Wera Kraftform Kompakt 25 and PB Swiss Insider 2 are great options, despite being a little chunky.

My go-to used to be a Klein multi-bit driver. Or Kobalt. Or Irwin. It was whatever I had at hand. I bought my PB Swiss Insider in November 2008, for $22, when Amazon was deeply discounting everything from the brand. I also bought a Felo multi-bit driver, but I didn’t like it very much. The Felo is currently in my “spare screwdrivers” box somewhere.

The PB Swiss Insider was my favorite for a long time. But it also wasn’t my daily-use screwdriver. It was my “I need something pocketable, comfortable, and capable” screwdriver. It’s great for impromptu tasks. But annoying for long projects.

It saw a lot of use, but there were times I carried it but didn’t need it.

I bought my Wera in 2011, on sale for $20. It never really took the place of my Insider, even the times when the Insider’s threaded end cap bit cartridge annoyed me most. But it’s seen a lot of use, and a lot of miles.

I should specifically mention that the Insider’s threaded end cap isn’t always an annoyance, and it didn’t always annoy me. In fact, it took me a while to even notice it. But now that I have more options, I have become less blind and forgiving to the Insider’s downsides.

I only bought an Insider 2 at the end of 2016, 8 years after I bought my original Insider, and more than 6 years after it was released.

For me, the Insider was more of a  “just in case” type of the tool, and the Wera Kraftform 25 a tool bag companion. The Insider 2 is better, but larger, and pricier.

I didn’t buy it to replace my Insider, but because there were finally enough review requests to convince me to entertain my curiosity.

I use all of these tools regularly, but they’re not quite my go-tos. I more prefer individual screwdrivers, and at times bit holder screwdrivers.

Thinking about what to recommend to Eli has been very difficult for me. What do your recommend to someone looking for a pocketable tool for everyday use in all kinds of situations?

Something pocketable? I don’t know if I can make a confident recommendation here. I would want the best screwdriver available to me, and I don’t think there are any pocketable drivers that I’d reach for first.

The Wera has an extending shaft, but its handle is chunky. And not everyone loves the Kraftform geometry. The original PB Swiss Insider has an imperfect bit cartridge end cap, the Insider 2 is a little large and pricey, the Insider 3 is large, pricier, and heavy. The Picquic SixPac doesn’t have the most comfortable handle, and replacement bits can’t be easily found.

I have found that for pocketable multi-bit screwdrivers, there are many aspects that need to be balanced perfectly. They lump together into 3 main factors:

• Size and bit storage
• Performance, comfort, user-friendliness
• Cost

No screwdriver I own fulfills all three, at least not perfectly.

The pocketable screwdrivers I mentioned above, as well as others I didn’t, might be a little compromised when it comes to actually using them. They might carry well and offer adequate built-in bit storage, but might not be as comfortable as less pocketable drivers might be.

And if there’s a better screwdriver, it might not be pocketable.

Something like the PB Swiss Insider 2 might be strong in size and performance categories, but it’s a little expensive. I suppose it’s less pocketable too, at least compared to the Insider, but the Insider’s user is less stellar than I once believed.

Less expensive pocketable screwdrivers, like the $7 or so Kobalt that I can’t bring myself to get rid of, aren’t all that great to use once you know how much better more premium tools really are.

I’m sorry Eli, I had been hoping to give you some good advice, but everything I have said comes down to this – the Wera Kraftform Kompakt 25 is likely the best pocketable multi-bit screwdriver that you’re going to find.

The Kompakt 25 offers a strong balance between pocketability and usability. You won’t find a more compact and pocketable tool that delivers the same versatility and performance, or at least I haven’t.

It’s not perfect, but I’m finding it hard to recommend anything over it.

Here are some links:

Buy Now(Wera Kompakt 25 via Amazon)
Buy Now(PB Swiss Pocket Tools via Count On Tools)
Buy Now(Picquic SixPac via Amazon)

Building upon everything I said, I think that my picks would be the Picquic SixPac if on a strict budget, Wera Kompakt 25 on a bigger budget, and PB Swiss Insider (1, 2, or 3) if I liked what they offered and had a higher budget.

Lastly, Picquic also offers a smaller multi-bit driver, the Multique, but it works with 3/16″ hex bits instead of 1/4″ hex. There’s also the Dash 7, which looks to work with standard 2″ bits. I haven’t tried either of these models yet, but the Dash 7 is looking quite appealing.

What would you recommend? Imagine that you’re a tech that works in all kinds of different situations, and you prefer to stash your screwdriver in a pocket. It needs to be compact, reliable, comfortable to use, and with built-in bit storage.

And for those of you that take your tools on the go, what kind of screwdrivers do you use, and would you recommend them to others?

Related Posts:

New PB Swiss Insider Stubby Multi-Bit Screwdriver Wera Pozidriv Screwdriver – Perfect for Assembling IKEA Furniture Screwdrivers vs. Bit Holders, Which do You Like Better?

The Gerber Suspension was my first multi-tool, or at least my first “real” one. Even after I bought my first Leatherman, and then my second, I kept the Gerber at my lab, and I used it often.

Now, I still keep it around, in a tool box at home, and it still comes in handy every so often, thanks to its spring-action pliers.

It’s not perfect. But, it is useful.

In addition to the spring-action pliers and cutters, the Gerber Suspension features 11 tools:

• Straight blade
• Serrated blade
• Phillips screwdriver
• Medium and large slotted screwdrivers
• Wire cutter/stripper
• Scissors
• Bottle opener
• Can opener
• Saw
• Awl
• Lanyard ring

Right now, the Gerber Suspension multi-tool is on sale, as part of Amazon’s Black Friday 2018 deals week. 12 years ago, I paid $25. It’s currently $20.

If you have ever wanted a pliers-based multi-tool, but didn’t want to invest a lot of money on something you might end up not using much, this is the one to get, at least in my opinion. That’s exactly what I did, and it worked out well for me. No regrets.

Sale Price: $20

Buy Now(via Amazon)

Related Posts:

Gerber Center-Drive Multi-Tool Aims to Best Leatherman Tools Leatherman TTI Multi-Tool with RealTree Camo Spyderco ClipiTool Standard Knife Multi-Tool Review

Over at BladeHQ, they kicked off some early Black Friday 2018 deals. The sale prices are said to be valid until 11/26/2018.

Buy any Benchmade knife, get a free “Benchmade Blue Box” tool kit.

I’m a fan of Benchmade’s USA-made knives, particularly the G-10 mini Griptilian, reviewed here. Before that, the previous generation of mini Griptilian was also a personal favorite.

Buy Now(Benchmade Knives via BladeHQ)

ALL Kizer knives are on sale. Kizer is a Chinese knife manufacturer that, like some others, makes use of premium blade steels and handle materials.

I bought 3 Kizer models in recent years, 2 under $75, and 1 at around $150, and the quality has been very good, even impressive. Their higher-priced offerings are better, but their more affordable knives are decent, even competitive against similarly-priced USA-made knives. They’ll be included in my next series of knife reviews.

Buy Now(Kizer Knives via BladeHQ)

(There’s also a free whistle offer, which is added to your cart with $75+ order totals.)

BladeHQ’s newsletter spotlights the Begleiter, which caught my attention with its low price. I own a different Kizer Vanguard-series knife, and it doesn’t have the same fit and finish as the Gemini, below, but it offers similar style at a lower price. My Vanguard definitely doesn’t have the more premium feel to it, but it’s good for what I paid.

The Begleiter is made using less premium handle materials, and less premium blade steel, hence the significantly lower price. It has a 3.5″ blade made from VG-10, and stainless steel liner lock with G-10 handle scales.

Price: $44

Buy Now(Kizer Begleiter)

The Kizer Gemini – one of the knives I bought for review – is a very “clean” knife, if that makes sense. It’s a Laconico collaboration, with smooth titanium framelock handle and 3.125″ stonewashed CPM-S35VN blade.

It’s a great flipper-style knife, and I like that it lacks the “tactical” aesthetics that are [too] popular these days. It’s on sale for $145, and there are some higher-priced dressed-up versions also on sale.

Price: $145+

Buy Now(Kizer Gemini)
Buy Now(Other Kizer Gemini Styles)

Like Kizer, We Knives is a Chinese-based knife manufacturer, and a darned good one too.

We Knives tend to be a little more stylish, which can be good or bad, but their overall quality is good, and their increasingly growing selection means there’s something for everyone. Their knives are higher priced, starting at around $90.

If you want a We Knives knife but your budget is under $100, wait for the next MassDrop Gent knife “drop”, which was last priced at $80.

Buy Now(via BladeHQ)

There’s also a sale on 3 discontinued models – 0055, 0920, and 0850.

Zero Tolerance makes great-quality knives, in the USA. They’re typically designed for harder use, and hold up well in all kinds of environments.

Buy Now(via BladeHQ)

Related Posts:

New Benchmade Mini Griptilian Knife with G10 Handles and Better Blade New Zero Tolerance Knives for 2016 New Zero Tolerance Knives for 2018