Some quick SAK questions

Joined
Oct 9, 2007
Messages
269
Hi everyone.

I've carried a Vic Explorer for about 10 years now, almost half my life, and its been a faithful and wondrously useful device. The relative who purchased it for me passed away a little more than a year ago (from old age), so its sentimental value has drastically increased and I'm retiring it.

I've considered many possible replacements (including Leatherman and SOG style tools), and I'm by no means done, but I've been wondering some things about some specific models of SAKs.

1. How does the screwdriver (especially the Phillips) on the Cybertool 34 compare to the durability of the one on the Explorer? I'm not talking heavy-duty stuff, but it isn't just for PCs right?

2. How good is the thin Phillips on the Hercules for computer work?

3. I'm a fairly small guy, does anyone find the Hercules too thick to use the blade properly? It doesn't look much thicker than my Explorer which has never given me problems so I'm not too worried but it's hard to tell from pictures.

4. I've been thinking (although not decided) that I don't really need major folding pliers like a Leatherman but I have come across some situations where the little pliers on some SAKs might have been useful (I also like the knife format much more). I don't really do major work with nuts and bolts (the biggest thing recently would be screwing in coaxial cable, which I think this would work for), but some manipulator or tiny gripper/forceps would be nice and I think this would fit the bill. Do you guys that have them find them moderately useful, or are they really too small and awkward for much at all? Would they enter into your decision to buy another SAK if size wasn't a consideration?

5. I see saws and files on many multitools, and I realize part of the idea of multitools is coming up with creative uses for the tools, but honestly I can't figure out what all you guys are sawing and filing all the time. The scissors are fine for my nails, and the only time I'd need a saw would be camping which I don't do enough to warrant EDCing a saw. Just a little curious as some people seem to find them indispensable (witness the Farmer's popularity).

6. Is the OHT really that easy to open one-handed? It looks a little awkward, would I be missing out much with a non-one-handed 111mm SAK?

7. Does anyone have any experience or know anything about this site: http://www.strassburgerweb.com/victorinox/customhandles/ ? I kinda like the bloodwood handles with the enameled logo.

Thanks in advance, and sorry if I rambled.
 
It sounds to me like working on computers is an important activity for you. I suggest you get a dedicated screwdriver that correctly fits the screws on those computers you will work on, whether those screws are Phillips, Torqx, or others. If you need small pliers, buy the correct pliers for your needs, too. It would be easy to come up with a little pouch to carry both of those tools on your belt, and probably your SAK, too. I love a good SAK, but I greatly prefer the more "basic" tools on mine. It's easy to buy an overly complicated model with too many gadgets on it. You just don't need to hold all your tools in one hand like that.
 
Hi chipped, welcome to the forums. I can't answer all your questions but I do find the pliers useful for smaller jobs, and though small they are pretty sturdy.They would be in my edc, but most of the models that have them are a little big imo. Thought I do carry a mechanic some days.

The files on most multitools are just ok for what I've seen, good for softer material, though the leatherman's diamond coated file works pretty well for it's size. As for the saw, I find them very useful in the woods, but I don't need the saw everyday.

The oht is a great knife, and with a little practice are easy to open, the newer models probably more so. But I prefer the standard "Two" handed models, just because they handle better when using tools other than the blade.
 
Well, I do a little work on PCs, but very basic and by no means enough to need dedicated tools. The Explorer has worked almost perfectly for PC work except in a small number of cases where I needed one other tool. I don't do any PC work that would really need pliers.

Good point about the OHT hole getting in the way. I hadn't considered that.

Oh, and by the way, I'm not worried about tool size, I carry my Explorer with a flashlight, flash drive, and pen in a clip-on cell phone holster.
 
Chipped, given how much time you spend working on PCs, I recommend the Cybertool 34, which has a nice little set of tools that are great for working on home and office electronics as well as some other handy tools, like a can opener and scissors.

If you prefer a plier-based multitool with locking blades, I suggest you look at the Leatherman Pulse, which has been discontinued but should be easy to find on eBay for ~$20 (cheaper than a Cybertool 34).
 
If you work on computers run, don't walk, and get yourself a CyberTool 41. It's one of the best investments I ever made. I've used it to work on everything from an Apple iBook G4 to a Nortel PassPort 15000 ATM switch (which takes up a full telco rack). The Torx and Phillips bits are perfect for working on networking gear and computers, which the flat head bits are hollow ground and work very well on gun screws. The Torx bits also work pretty well as expedient hex drivers for the appropriate screws, I've used them on scope mounts with good results and no buggered up screws.
 
Welcome Chipped:)

Have you considered simply retiring the Explorer and replacing it with another one? I have an Explorer Plus (same thing as an Explorer buy includes a mini eyeglass screwdriver, a straight pin, and an ink pen) that my wife got for me 4 years ago. Great knife:)

That said, I got a friend of mine a Cybertool 41 when he got out of grad school and went to work for Ford as an IT guy. He really enjoys it. He finds uses for it all of the time. He doesn't have the biggest of hands, and the tool doesn't seem to cause him any issues.
 
Hi everyone.


4. I've been thinking (although not decided) that I don't really need major folding pliers like a Leatherman but I have come across some situations where the little pliers on some SAKs might have been useful (I also like the knife format much more). I don't really do major work with nuts and bolts (the biggest thing recently would be screwing in coaxial cable, which I think this would work for), but some manipulator or tiny gripper/forceps would be nice and I think this would fit the bill. Do you guys that have them find them moderately useful, or are they really too small and awkward for much at all? Would they enter into your decision to buy another SAK if size wasn't a consideration?

Moderately useful, although not involving electronics. I have used small pliers on a Swisschamp to extract staples and small nails, the wire cutter to cut thin wire when hanging an exhibition, bending metal tabs and wires, and for serious tweezing.

5. I see saws and files on many multitools, and I realize part of the idea of multitools is coming up with creative uses for the tools, but honestly I can't figure out what all you guys are sawing and filing all the time. The scissors are fine for my nails, and the only time I'd need a saw would be camping which I don't do enough to warrant EDCing a saw. Just a little curious as some people seem to find them indispensable (witness the Farmer's popularity).

Don't overlook yardwork. I find a little SAK or Leatherman saw works remarkably well on small branches that grow close to a fence or other locations too small to fit a regular saw blade. It is also good for sawing in lots of places when working in small or limited access. I use mine often enough to want one one on my EDC multi-tool.

6. Is the OHT really that easy to open one-handed? It looks a little awkward, would I be missing out much with a non-one-handed 111mm SAK?

The OH Trekker works okay, but takes more effort than a dedicated one-handed folder because of backspring tension suitable for a slip lock design. I think of the Trekker as a possible rather than preferred OH opener, and use two hands most of the time. However, when in a situation where that might be convenient, it can easily be done. If you are interested in the type, you will lose nothing by the OH feature, and it could come in handy.
 
I wouldn't retire it, I would have it engraved and use it in his honor. That is why it was given to you. Step up to a Multi-tool, the Leatherman Blast is a good bet..You'll find use for the needle pliers I'm sure. That's my 2cents..
 
I carry Cybertool 41 in my laptop bag, and use it frequently. It is rather wider than the Explorer, but I still have no problems using it. The bits are good quality and you can replace them, if needed.
I don't have Hercules, but from what I know, the Phillips is #1, you will probably be using #2 more often. Width-wise it should also be OK. I have a tradesman (about the same width) and use it often around the house.
I used a wood saw a few times in the office to cut floating ceiling tiles. It aslo works well on plastics. Metal file can be used to smooth sharp corners/edges, etc.
Overall, I would say, unless you need a pocket carry, get a CT41, you will not be disappointed.
Alexei
 
I would get two, 1. vic cyber tool and the Vic Outrider! and you will be set for the urban and wilderness jungles.

RickJ
 
Welcome!

I carry Spartan Lite & Bundeswehr (German Army version of OHT). I find the one hand operation easy enough with practice, and don't find the hump getting in the way that much, when using other tools, only a slight discomfort. It can be a major issue if you plan to do it all day, but for short occasional use, no prob!

The longer blade has it's place, used it to cut cake, something the Spartan blade not long enough.
 
Thanks again guys. I haven't quite made up my mind but that answers most of my questions.

Have a good xmas.
 
I own a lawn/landscape company with lots of equipment. Our tool needs get rather big sometimes. I carry a Vic Mechanic in my pocket everyday at work. The pliers are the reason I bought it. Its by no means heavy duty, but I works well at holding nuts or tightening, things that are stuck, etc that you don't have tools handy for. It will get the job done...especially in a bind. Mine just finished its 3rd or 4th season of everyday carry and is doing A-OK.
 
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