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Multi-Tool
Review
Reviewer:
Rob Wood
When Leathermans came out they were an absolute godsend to the practical
camper or traveler. They revolutionised the multi-tool market and
set the benchmark by which all subsequent imitators have been judged.
Their brilliant craftsmanship and utility have been matched by only
a few of the subsequent attempts to infiltrate this market. Unfortunately
the best multi-tools will cost you your first-born. Having lost
two Leathermans then, I opted for the much cheaper option. Enter
the "Kit" multi-tool.
Retailing
for around $15 (US$8) the Kit Multi-tool comes in at well under
the cost of the competition. Of course it cannot hope to compete
with the likes of Victorinox or Leatherman for quality of workmanship,
but the difference in price certainly goes a long way to making
up for that shortfall.
The Kit
Multi-Tool has most of the accessories, including the pliers, three
flat-head screwdrivers, Phillips-head screwdriver, can opener, file,
saw, and two different sized blades all made from stainless steel.
Whilst the construction seems exceptionally sturdy, this tool can
be quite hard on the hands if using it for anything more than cosmetics.
It also comes with a funky carry-case that we fashion-conscious
travelers may choose to attach to our belt (or perhaps throw out).
It is
perhaps when traveling in the Third World that these little gems
come into their own. They are great "gifts" for those
lovely border-guard friends we all make. They can be traded for
local items or given as a gift to your hosts. And if you lose the
Kit Multi-tool… who cares? Take a few of them, use some as
gifts, lose the others, but for God's sake, don't come home with
any of them.
Reviewer:
Rob Wood
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