Multi-tool

A multi -function tool, colloquially called multi-tool is a portable in your pocket or on a belt tool that combines many different individual tools in itself. The best known examples are pliers tools with additional fold-out tools. Also Swiss knife fall under this definition, however, they are viewed with the blade as a determining element as a separate genus and existed even before the advent of the concept of multi-tool. Furthermore, there are many special tools for different application profiles.

Plier Tools

The most popular type of multi-tools, with pliers and other tools as a central element in the handle, 1978 filed by Timothy S. Leatherman patent and has since been sold through the U.S. firm Leatherman. The term Leatherman often acts as a generic name. Other well-known manufacturer of such tools are Victorinox ( Switzerland ), Gerber (USA), SOG (USA).

In addition to the classic folding of the pliers head in both Giffschalen, the pliers can also be using sliding mechanism (eg, Gerber ), or lateral Klappmechnismus (eg SOG) stowed in the handle pieces. As a rapid one-handed access to the clamp function is accomplished. Most common design of the pliers head is the needle-nose pliers with integrated wire cutter, but are also combination pliers and models with intermediate types on the market. There also exist a few other special structures, even scissors as a central tool are available.

The genus formative models weigh about 200-300 g and have folded a length of about 10-12 cm. Very small models can, however, carry as a keychain.

While the first models all additional tools were contained inside the grip panels and still deployed tools were kept only with spring tension, have established themselves in the course of continuous development in the upscale segment models with lockable individual tools. Some models also have direct access to all or at least the large main tools ( blades, saw, etc.) is possible from the outside, having to show without the pliers. Are the blades by spring force or in one-hand operation folding, the tools fall possibly under the arms right ( switchblade knife, hand knife ).

Some manufacturers offer additional interchangeable attachments, such as screw driver bits or replaceable blades.

The tools usually have a metal surface. In addition, variants with burnished or camouflage surfaces are offered in military optics of many models. Although rarely standard equipment to Mutlifunktionswerkzeuge delight even when members of the police, special forces and military popularity.

Bicycle Tools

There are special multi-function tools for bicycles, which were developed for use on the go. Here, emphasis is placed on weight reduction and compactness in a variety of possible use. The best known example is the bone that has, however, lost in the modern screws diversity much of its universality, the bike.

Usually among modern tools spanner or wrench in various shades and the opening widths from 8 to 15 mm and different Allen wrenches. On some models, you can find nipple wrench, chain tool, tire levers, and other accessories. Often, individual tools are removable, so you can use separately can.