Byrd Harp- any thoughts?

[moonwilson]

I just ordered a Byrd Harp out of curiosity, and was wondering if anyone here has one and likes it. It's an interesting design, I'm wondering how useful it really is. Is this a viable alternative to the leatherman/pliers style of multitool? Since I don't really need a pair of pliers, a light, flat multitool with good screwdrivers, and an awl sounds pretty good to me. I don't need a blade on my multitool either, so it's fine that the Harp doesn't have one. I have blade enough in my right front pocket already.

How does the Harp hold up? How's the fit and finish? Do the tools snap into place with a relatively solid detent?

Thanks in advance!

 

[jaislandboy]

I received one as a prize from Spyderco....
I've used the Phillips screwdriver mostly, so I can't really comment on the other implements....it works well....

"Is this a viable alternative to the leatherman/pliers style of multitool?"
.....I'd have to say probably not... no pliers on it.....

but

"How does the Harp hold up? How's the fit and finish? Do the tools snap into place with a relatively solid detent? "

the Harp feels solid, well made, good F&F, all the implements snap in place with a firm detent.....

 

[moonwilson]

I
"Is this a viable alternative to the leatherman/pliers style of multitool?"
.....I'd have to say probably not... no pliers on it.....

I wonder about the harp as a viable alternative to a leatherman because I personally don't use pliers that much. Having a pair of pliers adds dramatically to a multi-tool's weight and bulk. The novel thing about the Harp, aside from the form factor, is what is omitted from the most common multi-tool formats- the SAK and the Leatherman. The SAK has a blade and the Leatherman has pliers & a blade. But for a person who already carries a blade and doesn't need pliers, a Byrd harp may be a good tool. I'm wondering if anyone has any testimonials about the Byrd in use.

Specifically, I'm wondering if this tool presents a useful alternative to the more common types of multi-tools on the market. Its flat profile, combined with relatively large implements seem to indicate that might be the case.