Formerly useless tools that have grown on you?

[kozak6]

What formerly useless tools have you found a use for, or even learned to love?

For me, on my SAK, it would be the awl, woodsaw, and nail file.

At first, I just never used the awl for anything. However, I have found that it is remarkably useful for whenever a sharp point is needed without necessarily a knife blade, or when I need to poke a hole in something where it would be dangerous or otherwise inappropriate to use the knife blade.

The woodsaw makes a surprisingly useful breadknife :thumbup:.

The nail file is almost like a light duty awl, and I have found that it is more convenient than trying to keep track of a nail clipper.

 

[Doug S]

I'll play. I posted this in another thread...I used to think of the corkscrew as a complete waste, and avoided SAks with one. Then I got my Swiss Champ with the little mini screwdriver inside the corkscrew. I've used that mini driver so many times, and I don't even have glasses. Because I've found the mini-driver so useful, I now like SAKs with the corkscrew, and think of it as the "mini driver holder".

Also, the toothpick, and nail file. Two items that I never really used before getting a SAK, but now use quite a bit.

 

[znapschatz]

Over 15 years I have used every implement on my Swisschamp, although not always for their intended purposes, except for the small backspring screwdriver. In addition, I also have a Minichamp and use all its stuff. Those designers at Victorinox are smart. They know theirs.

 

[Kronos]

I originally hated the seatbelt cutter on the SOG powerlock, because i thought it was flimsy and useless. I found so many times however, where it has come in handy. Especially to cut packing straps and other things that i want to cut without damaging whatever is underneath. Where it really shines for me is cutting fishing line on a moving boat. there is just no way to cut yourself