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MantisX Blackbeard

Thursday, March 31st, 2022

The Mantis Blackbeard is a .223/5.56mm laser cartridge from MantisX systems for dry fire training with an AR. It’s a little more advanced than just a simple laser cartridge inserted in the chamber and later removed with a cleaning rod. Instead, the Blackbeard is a complete bolt replacement, powered by a battery pack that replaces the magazine.

Mantis Blackbeard Dry Fire System

by Pete Nealen

There are a couple of advantages to the  Mantis Blackbeard bolt replacement arrangement. For one thing, the system itself is bright red, and it is impossible to close the ejection port cover over it. There is no way to mistake a rifle set up with the Blackbeard system for one that is loaded, making dry fire that much safer.

Mantis Blackbeard

Mantis Blackbeard installed in an American Praetorians-themed rifle. (American Praetorians is a dystopian military fiction series by the author of this review, Pete Nealen.)

The Blackbeard also is more than just the laser. Built into the bolt replacer is a trigger reset mechanism. Powered by the battery pack in the “magazine,” it resets the trigger just like the bolt cycling if you’d taken a real shot. This cuts down on the extra movement and time required to work the bolt, allowing you to run the gun more realistically, provided the battery is charged. (If the battery runs down past a certain point, the trigger will “fire” but won’t reset, and then you have to charge the battery before you can use it at all.)

Mantis Blackbeard

To start with, the system comes with a padded case, battery pack, bolt replacement, Allen key, and USB cable to charge the battery. Unfortunately, it does not come with a wall charger; you have to supply that yourself. It’s a standard USB cable, though, so that shouldn’t be difficult.

Installation is easy. Simply break the weapon down, remove the bolt and charging handle, and insert the bolt replacement (the bolt and charging handle are all one piece with the Blackbeard). Next, reassemble the rifle, then insert the battery in the mag well. It clicks in using the magazine release. You’ll know that it’s seated properly when the trigger reset mechanism cycles a couple of times.

Unlike the Mantis X Laser Academy System, the Blackbeard requires a bit of zeroing. This is the purpose of the included Allen key. There are elevation and windage adjustments on the Blackbeard itself, accessible through the ejection port. The system comes with instructions to make the necessary adjustments, and it’s relatively simple. You can (and should) turn the laser to “Always On” via a switch just behind the elevation and windage screws to see what you’re doing.

The easiest way to tell the Blackbeard is off is that the laser dot will be a smear, as the beam reflects off the inside of your barrel. Therefore, adjustments should be made until the dot is an actual dot. That’s when the laser is traveling straight down the bore.

It should be noted that this will not co-witness with your sights at near distances, whether iron sights or a red dot. It will be some distance below. This should be familiar to those who have spent a good deal of time with a carbine. It is necessary to find your offset at around five yards and in since the height over bore of your sights versus your barrel becomes a non-trivial factor when aiming. Generally speaking, this offset will be close to three inches from about five yards in with a red dot sight. You will see that same offset rather graphically with the Blackbeard. There’s no way around it without sighting your sights to your laser (which I do not recommend).

Mantis Blackbeard

Because a laser beam doesn’t follow the same path as a bullet, there will only be a very specific range where the dot will co-witness with the sights, and that depends on the length of your barrel and what range you are zeroed. But, in general, this isn’t a huge issue. As you can see, the impact it’s still within BZO tolerances. However, it is still dry fire, with its limitations and advantages.

While the Blackbeard is compatible with the Laser Academy system, that sight offset starts to cause some issues if you’re trying to use them together.

The Laser Academy is primarily designed for pistol training at either 2 yards for the 5×7 targets or 4 yards for the 8×10 targets. At either distance, you will have to adjust for that offset. It’s not a deal-breaker, depending on your skill level. Still, against targets at that perceived distance, you’re either looking at the laser impact or looking at your sights. If you’re training with irons, it will be next to impossible to spot your hits at those ranges.

Mantis Laser Academy

It is, of course, possible to set the targets farther out. You’d want to either have a partner to start the app, or hit start, then run to your firing point. Even then, at about ten yards, your sight offset is still significant enough that you’ll have to adjust.

Again, this isn’t a deal-breaker. Even if it’s low, the trigger reset and the impact provides better training value than just sighting in, pulling the trigger, and working the bolt. It’s just something of which you should be aware. Along with the fact that, while the systems are compatible, the Laser Academy is still programmed with pistol training in mind, not carbine. In time, it can be hoped that MantisX will develop drills, courses, and targets for carbine training, specifically geared toward the Blackbeard.

Keep this firmly in mind; this system is not a complete alternative for range time. There is no recoil management, no reloads, nothing but fundamentals. The limitations of the laser also make marksmanship training slightly more difficult and can potentially create range scars if this is all you’re using for training. It’s a valuable tool, but it is no substitute for the real thing. 

I’d recommend getting one to practice those fundamentals, but make sure you’re getting to the range and doing real live fire when you can.

About the author: Pete Nealen is a former Reconnaissance Marine, a veteran of Iraq* and Afghanistan**, and more than a bit of a Renaissance Man. In addition to a number of online articles for various publications, Nealen has written more than two dozen novels and a pair of non-fiction works. When he’s not penning action books or musing about the Triarii, he can be found… actually, that’s really all he does. Plus the occasional freelance article, of course. *1st Platoon, Bravo Co., 1 Recon Bn. **4th Platoon, Force Reconnaissance Company, I MEF.

CRKT – Knife Maintenance Tool

Saturday, November 2nd, 2019

CRKT’s new Knife Maintenance Tool is designed as a compact yet functional tool for knife maintenance that can be stowed on one’s keychain or in a pack. Featuring a body/handle made of glass-filled nylon, the Knife Maintenance Tool comes with both a tungsten carbide field sharpener and ceramic honing edge. Two sizes of TORX heads – T6 and T8 – allow for securing of fasteners found on many common knives, as does an included flat head screwdriver. The Kinfe Maintenance Tool also has a bottle opener, just in case you need to pry open a food can, or pop open a cold one.

www.crkt.com/catalog/product/view/id/1124/s/knife-maintenance-tool/category/65

Uncharted Supply Co – The Triage Kit On Indiegogo

Monday, October 21st, 2019

Currently up for funding on Indiegogo, The Triage Kit by Uncharted Supply Co is a ‘jack of all trades’ emergency kit in a portable, lightweight form. Developed over a year with the input from over 100 “outdoor experts, pros and ambassadors”, The Triage Kit contains not only basic medical supplies, as its name implies, but also some survival gear, and repair gear. The pouch is made of a 30D double-ripstop nylon parachute fabric, and the entire fully-loaded package comes in at only 96 grams (approx. 3.4 oz).

This project is fully funded at the time of writing, but as always, you can still fund it if you want to secure a Triage Kit for yourself.

www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-triage-kit

DMOS Collective – DMOS Delta Shovel

Wednesday, September 4th, 2019

DMOS Collective has one goal in mind: to create the greatest, most advanced shovels on the market. And after their highly-successful Alpha Snow Shovel line, they’re looking to expand into the off-road and survival field with the Delta Shovel.

An evolution of the time-tested military E-Tool, the DMOS Delta is a three-in-one tool made of high-quality materials, and is designed with both form and function in mind. It features a 3mm thick blade with an extra wide 2″ foot pad, made of either aluminum or steel (dependent on model); a 2mm thick walled aluminum telescopic shaft with 3″ overlap segments; and a nylon Zytel t-grip handle. 12 oversized flush rivets secure the shaft to the blade, which can readily be adjusted between shovel, hoe, and stow modes.

Currently available for pre-order direct from DMOS Collective. Check out the link below for more details:

The Delta Collection

Buck Knives Upgrades the Compadre Camping Line

Wednesday, August 7th, 2019

Compadre Series Gets a New Cerakote® Coating and Micarta® Handles

Post Falls, ID — Wednesday, August 7, 2019– Propelled by the growing popularity in outdoor recreational tools, Buck Knives has added new handle and blade coatings to the popular Compadre Series line of outdoor rugged tools.

Specifically crafted for life in the outdoors, the popular Compadre Series maintains the much-appreciated features and advantages, but now includes a Cerakote® Cobalt coating to help prevent rust and corrosion while adding to the overall aesthetics. The knife, axe, and chopping froe all feature natural canvas Micarta® handles and full tang construction for added strength and durability for strenuous outdoor activities.

104 Compadre Camp Knife
The Compadre Camp Knife was designed and engineered for serious outdoor tasks. The full tang blade is constructed of 5160 spring steel, with an overall length of 9 ½” and a total weight of 7.1 oz. Genuine leather sheath with added belt loop attachment included. MSRP: $125

106 Compadre Axe
The Compadre Axe was uniquely designed for rugged, outdoor use. The 5160 steel and ergonomic handle design combine to create a chopping and game prep tool suitable for a wide array of outdoor activities. It also comes with a compact and durable black leather sheath. The Compadre Axe is forward weighted to make the task of chopping easier. MSRP: $150

108 Compadre Froe
The Compadre Chopping Froe is a heavy-duty, durable, multi-purpose wood working tool that is ideal for outdoor activities. Composed of 5160 steel, the 9 ½” blade is perfect for clearing brush, heavy chopping, splitting, and batoning. Weighing under 2 lbs. and with an overall length of 16 3/4”, the Compadre Chopping Froe is the right size for all outdoor tasks. Genuine leather sheath included. MSRP: $180

The well thought out design and unique features of the Compadre Series make these products a must have for the outdoor enthusiast. All products proudly made in the USA and backed by Buck’s famous Forever Warranty.

Gerber Center-Drive Plus

Saturday, March 23rd, 2019

Gerber has released an updated model of their Center-Drive multitool, the Center-Drive Plus. The original Center-Drive was designed to allow one-handed access to the three major components of the tool: the pliers, bit driver, and blade. With the Center-Drive Plus, Gerber added spring-loaded scissors, and changed the original full edge blade to a partially-serrated blade. The components on the plus are now also tumble-finished, and the blade comes with a leather sheath, instead of the nylon sheath of the previous model.

www.gerbergear.com/Multi-Tools/One-Hand-Opening/Center-Drive-Plus_30-001417

Four New Tools From Fix It Sticks

Tuesday, January 15th, 2019

Chicago, IL- Fix It Sticks, the industry innovator of modular firearms maintenance tools and torque limiters has introduced a Universal Choke Tube Wrench, Knife Sharpener, Aimpoint Sight Bit and 3/8” Adjustment Wrench. These new items perfectly integrate with the Fix It Sticks tool system as well as perform as stand-alone products.

The Universal Choke Tube Wrench works on shotgun chokes from .410 to 10 gauge. Made from solid steel construction for durability, it has a flat design to reduce bulk and easily fit in any tool or maintenance kit. The Universal Choke Tube Wrench is now available with an MSRP of $10.00

To keep knives sharp and functioning a peak efficiency the new Fix It Sticks Knife Sharpener bit has both a carbide and ceramic V type sharpening inserts. Both are set at 22.5 degrees for a 45 degree inclusive edge. The Knife Sharpener is precision machined from steel, is available in February 2019 and has an MSRP of $22.00

To aid those using an Aimpoint, Fix It Sticks has introduced a bit specifically for the adjustment of these sights. Made from a non-marring polymer, the bit has a two-prong design specifically to work with the windage and elevation adjustment knobs. Available for shipment this February, the Aimpoint bit has an MSRP of $10.00

For scope mounts using a LaRue style release system, Fix It Sticks has introduced a 3/8” Adjustment Wrench bit to work with these quick release systems. Made from solid steel, the 3/8” Adjustment Wrench will be available later this month. MSRP is $10.00

Like all Fix It Stick bits, these new bits will work with any ¼” hex bit driver and of course the Fix It Sticks modular tool system.

MRF Multitools – Adventur 3.0 Credit Card Survival Tool On Kickstarter

Saturday, December 22nd, 2018

MRF Multitools’ Adventur 3.0 is a credit card-sized survival multitool designed for portability, as it can easily be stowed in a wallet, yet is feature rich, with over 40 listed functions. The base Adventur 3.0 is made of stainless steel (titanium will also be made available), and features a prominent blade edge, which allows the tool to be used as a stand-alone blade, or readily converted to an axe by lashing it to a stick or branch. Additional tools include:

– Can Opener
– Cord Cutter
– O2 Wrench
– Screwdriver
– Hex Bit Driver
– Sundial
– Ruler

and more.

For more info on the Adventur 3.0, and to fund the project, check out the link below:

www.kickstarter.com/projects/mrfmultitools/adventur-30-ultimate-survival-edc-credit-card-mult

Fix It Sticks Has The Perfect Items For Gift Guides This Season

Tuesday, December 18th, 2018

Chicago, IL- Fix It Sticks, the industry innovator of modular firearm maintenance tools and torque limiters has the perfect gift for anyone who loves the outdoors. With so many options and price points available there’s something from Fix It Sticks worthy of any gift guide. Check out some of the great suggestions below.

AR-15 Tool Kit With Soft Case: MSRP $100
Any AR-15 owner would be delighted receive this as a gift. Made to be field-portable yet fully capable, this tool kit has everything the MSR needs for maintenance in the field and even on the bench. For more information Click Here

Torque Limiters: MSRP $40
Precision gear needs to be properly torqued for peak performance. Whether it’s scope mounts, action screws or other equipment, Fix It Sticks preset torque limiters allow for tightening fasteners to the exact specifications as needed. Available in ranges from 6in/lb to 70in/lb, the torque limiters work with the Fix It Stick system or an 1/4″ hex driver. For More Information Click Here

Firearm Accessory Bits: MSRP – $10 to $35
Fix It Sticks has accessory bits that are useful and appreciated! The Glock tool kit is perfect for anyone who has the ubiquitous polymer pistol. The magnetic patch keep bits and fasteners from getting lost in the field. For the venerable 1911 there’s a bushing wrench and there’s even a Mini Pry Bar for the Fix It Sticks system. For More Information Click Here

DISTINCT Multitool On Kickstarter

Friday, November 9th, 2018

The DISTINCT is a multitool currently up for funding by Chiseled Design, a New York-based design company. The DISTINCT is roughly the size of a credit card, but had 30+ tools/features, including 10 magnetically-locked hex bits, a metric wrench set, the always-requisite bottle opener, wire stripper, boxcutter, and more.

For more information on the DISTINCT, and to fund the project, check out the link below:

www.kickstarter.com/projects/chiseleddesign/distinct-ultra-thin-pocket-tool-for-everyday-carry

Meet Tacticlip, the “Multi-tool Hair Clip for Unpredictable Lifestyles”

Thursday, August 9th, 2018

This article was originally published on Soldier Systems Daily.

These days, lots of folks are wearing their hair longer, and we know several Jewish men who keep their yarmulkes in place with a hair clip, so when we found out about Tacticlip, we figured, why not share it?

It does in fact work as a hair clip, but it also incorporates several other functions:

• Hair clip

• Raptor-style pointed tip

• Serrated Edge

• Ruler

• Wick Holder

• Mini-Screwdriver

Dimensions

• UltraLight Weight: 3 grams

• Length: 2 inches

• Thickness: 1mm

• Serrated Teeth: 17

• Serrated Teeth Style: Shark tooth

• Materials: Spring Steel

• Color: Black – Finish will wear depending on intensity of use

To learn more, visit www.kickstarter.com/projects/beauchevassus/tacticlip-multi-tool-hair-clip-for-unpredictable-l.

Gerber Reimagines Backcountry Meals With New Multi-Tools: Compleat & Devour

Monday, July 23rd, 2018

PORTLAND, OREGON (July 23rd 2018) – GERBER, an industry-leading manufacturer of knives, multi-tools, and gear, announced today the introduction of two new multi-tools to cleverly streamline dining in the backcountry: the ComplEAT and the Devour. The first look at both products comes at Outdoor Retailer 2018 in Denver, Colorado, ahead of the products’ launch in early 2019. Both products are available in 4 distinct colors that aim to appeal aesthetically to the outdoor enthusiast: Silver, Flat Sage, Onyx, and Burnt Bronze. The ComplEAT Cook Eat Clean tool retails for $24.99 and the Devour Multi-Fork retails for $14.99.

“The goal was to create a multi-tool that addressed the entire eating process while in the backcountry: preparing food, eating, and cleaning up after,” says Eric Moore, Product Manager at Gerber. “Gerber presents two complimentary solutions to multi-task around the campfire or on the trail. The Devour is a minimalist tool at less than 1 ounce, with a removable solid state tool that mounts to the back and kickstands the tool to keep it off dirty surfaces and out of your cooking pot. The ComplEAT focuses on the organization of dedicated tools, working independently as well as configuring to a tong to bring the convenience of a home kitchen to the wild. Don’t go hungry with two solutions to keep your adventures nourished and Unstoppable.”

On the trail, the most important meal of the day is the meal you are about to eat. The ComplEAT tool has the bases covered with a long tine fork, deep basin spoon, dual-edge spatula, and 4 function multi-tool that nest for transport as well as snap together to convert into functional tongs. The multi-tool includes a bottle opener, veggie peeler, serrated package opener, and a can opener. Cook, eat, clean and get back out there.




Pictured: Individual Components [Silver], Nested Components [Burnt Bronze, Flat Sage, Onyx], Tongs Configuration, Storage Configuration.

At under an ounce, the Devour Multi-Fork is ideal for those who demand a lightweight, easy-to-use tool on the trail. Designed to handle mealtime from start to finish, the Devour has 9 tools on hand for prep, eating, and cleaning. The refreshed fork design doesn’t compromise function, and the detachable solid state tool offers 6 functions while keeping your multi-fork out of the dirt or pot with a unique kickstand design.

Pictured from Top: Individual Components, Kickstand Feature, Multi-Fork

www.gerbergear.com

ZEROHOUR Apex Bolt Action Pen

Monday, July 2nd, 2018

ZEROHOUR is currently running a Kickstarter campaign for the APEX Bolt, a ‘bolt-aciton’ version of their popular APEX Tactical Pen. What makes the APEX a Tactical Pen? In the original’s case, it was made of extremely durable materials (aluminum or titanium), featured a Fisher space pen cartridge, and had a tungsten steel glass-breaking tip/striking point. The APEX Bolt continues this trend, with a choice of either an aluminum or titanium body, Fisher Space Pen cartridge, Ceramic glass-breaking tip/striking point, and new to the Bolt, a ‘bolt-action’ pen actuation mechanism, and a hex-bit socket.

At the time of writing, this campaign was already funded over 3 times its initial goal, however as always you can still fund the project and secure a pen for yourself.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/prizmlite/zerohour-apex-bolt-action-titanium-pen-hidden-mult#

BucknBear Knives – Mini Survival Hatchet

Tuesday, May 15th, 2018

At 8″ in length and with a 3″ blade, BucknBear’s Mini Survial Hatchet certainty embodies its name, but is still designed to be a solid and functional piece of hardware. Made of 440C stainless steel, the Mini Survial Hatchet features full-tang construction, and a non-slip, G10 handle. The Mini Survival Hatchet also comes with a kydex sheath.

Plus, for a bit extra, purchasers can have the hatchet engraved with up to 13 characters.

https://bucknbearknives.com/mini-hatchet.html

Outland Equipment’s Multi-Mission Axes

Friday, April 13th, 2018

Built for the unforgiving environments encountered by military, law enforcement and emergency response professionals, Outland’s American-made Multi-Mission Series axes are reliable tools for rescue and survival situations.

img_8572.jpg

Outland Equipment Multi-Mission Axe (MMA) 1503

Mont Vernon, N.H. (April 2018) – Although axes have been used throughout history as a tool and weapon, little has changed over the millennia in its design. For today’s first responders, military and law enforcement professionals, the axe is still a primary tool for rescue, breaching and survival scenarios. Outland Equipment designs and manufactures state-of-the-art axes and knives specifically engineered to meet the critical demands of those that go in harms’ way.

“A go-to tool for responding to emergency situations,” Chris Aiston, CEO of Outland Equipment, said. “We design these tools for those who operate in harsh environments where failure means disaster. They cut, pound and pry, facilitating structure and vehicle forcible entry and egress. Whatever a first responder requires his tool to do, the MMA series is there to complete the mission and save lives.”

Outland has produced three Multi-Mission Axes (MMA) that not only perform the requirements of an axe, but also integrate other functionality including hammering, prying, cutting seatbelts, cutting sheet metal and working with hex fasteners. The MMA 1502, 1902 and 1503 are all made from a single piece of hardened S7 tool steel, a steel formulated to withstand extreme shock and impact.

img_8573.jpg

Outland Equipment Multi-Mission Axe with extended handle 1902

The head of the MMA series features a 3.9 inch cutting edge with a bolt-on hammer and hex nut tool. The MMA 1502 and 1503 are 15 inches in length, a size convenient for carry and maneuvering in tight spaces. The MMA 1902 with its 19 inch length provides enhanced reach, impact force and leverage. The tail of the MMA 1502 and 1902 feature an angled pry bar, seatbelt cutter and sheet metal cutter. The MMA 1503 tail features an angled pry bar, seatbelt cutter and a hex wrench for urban and residential environments.

The handle grips are made of G10 material, a fiberglass-based epoxy resin that is not only extremely rugged but also impervious to moisture and chemicals, important factors for rescue operators. The handle has been shaped to offer the operator multiple hand positions to optimize a positive grip for the job.

All of Outland’s MMA axes are covered with a Modular Sheath that allows for easy access, quick deployment and multiple carry options. The axe is secured in the sheath using an internal latch and two BioThane® Coated Webbing straps. Carry options are endless for the operator, as the Modular Sheath accepts accessories for mounting on a belt or MOLLE gear, can be bolted to a vehicle or worn on a shoulder strap.

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www.outlandequipment.com

The COMBAR On Kickstarter

Monday, April 9th, 2018

The COMBAR, “an incredibly rugged heavy-duty multi-tool”, is a project currently up on Kickstarter. The project was started by Delaware-based ACLIM8, an outdoor solutions company formed by ex-IDF Special Forces officer and outdoor lovers.

The COMBAR is made of aluminum, titanium, and stainless steel, weighing in at only 3.2 lbs., and features 3 main tools:

– A hammer made of 420J2 steel with a textured finish
– An axe with a blade made of 420J2 steel and a cheek made of 6AL-4V titanium
– A spade made of 6AL-4V titanium

Additionally, the COMBAR features a storage magazine that stows into the grip, allowing the user to securely store addional survival materials as needed.

The Pro version of the COMBAR also comes with two additions:

– A drop-point blade survival knife made of 420HC steel, with a glass-reinforced nylon handle
– A hand saw that uses standard replaceable 6″ – 9.45″ blades

The COMBAR has reached its funding goal at the time of writing, however the project will continue until June 7th, so if you’re interested in supporting the project, you’ve got plenty of time.

www.kickstarter.com/projects/1349260918/combartm-an-incredibly-rugged-heavy-duty-multi-too

SOG Knives – Voodoo Hawk Mini

Sunday, March 11th, 2018

SOG’s Voodoo Hawk Mini is, as its name implies, a smaller version of the original Voodoo Hawk. How much smaller? Well, admittedly not majorly so:

Length: 12.5″ (Mini) vs. 12.56″ (Voodoo)

Blade: 2.75″ (Mini) vs. 3.5″ (Voodoo)

Weight: 23.10 oz. (Mini) vs. 28.50 oz. (Voodoo)

Still, it is measurably more compact, and with the same general design and material composition, just as functional and durable as the original.

Plus, the Voodoo Mini is about a sawbuck less expensive than the original Voodoo, and like its big brother comes with a nylon, snap closure sheath.

https://www.sogknives.com/voodoo-hawk-mini-w-pommel-black.html

CRKT – Williams Tactical Key

Friday, February 2nd, 2018

Former Army Officer and martial arts instructor James Williams designed the Williams Tactical Key, a push dagger-style self defense tool shaped innocuously like a key. The tool is made of 3Cr13 steel, with a blade length of 1.762″, and the tip of the blade also functions as a Phillips screwdriver.

www.crkt.com/shop/whats-new/williams-tactical-key

SHOT Show 2018 – SOG Knives PowerAccess Deluxe

Thursday, January 25th, 2018

IMG_0438

The PowerAccess Deluxe is a new multitool from SOG Knives. Made of 5Cr15MoV steel with a stonewash finish, the PowerAccess Deluxe has 21 tools, as well as a 12-piece hex bit kit, and the components can be opened while keeping the tool closed. This tool utilizes SOG’s compound leverage gripping power. With this feature, and the wire cutters, we were able to slice clean through a penny the rep had on hand.

IMG_0436

Another cool feature of this and other tools in SOG’s new line is the ability to retain a bit while the tool is closed.

IMG_0442

Here’s a shot of the PowerAccess Deluxe fully extended.
www.sogknives.com

The Spool Tool

Saturday, January 13th, 2018

The Spool Tool is actually a pretty nifty little device. Made by Veteran-owned Tricore LLC, the Spool Tool is an idea born of the field, a multifunctional device for stowing and working on 550 paracord. It holds up to 100 ft of cord, and features fusing notches, a replaceable cutting blade, and a notch for holding a BIC lighter.

spooltool.com

3COIL Design – Puna And Crane Knives On Kickstarter

Monday, December 4th, 2017

3COIL Design is a “London based fashion and product design studio”, who have started a Kickstarter campaign for a couple of EDC tools, the Puna and Crane Knife.

The Puna

The Puna features a design overtly reminiscent of a modern day AR-15-like rifle. The upper receiver portion removes from the lower receiver, functioning as a tool knife with a scalpel blade. The blade is easily replaceable using the included ‘suppressor’ micro screwdriver, while two interchangeable magazines function as a Flathead and Phillips head screwdriver, respectively.

As a happy accident, the Puna also fuctions as a proper bottle opener.

The Puna comes in a slick aluminum case, roughly the size of a business card, laid out with all the separate components, including spare blades. As a bonus, the top lid is pocketed, and can be used to store business cards, and other like-sized items.

The Crane

The Crane, a bit more pedestrian when compared to the showy Puna, is, as claimed by 3COIL, the smallest folding scalpel blade in the world. Made of stainless steel with a silver color, it features a non-locking, spring-loaded mechaism, an open length of 3.7″, and utilizes a No.11 Scalpel blade. The Crane is normally made only in extremely limited numbers by 3COIL, and this is the first time they’re doing a full production run.

Check out the link below for more information on 3COIL and the Kickstarter campaign for the Puma and Crane knife:

www.kickstarter.com/projects/762512577/3coil-worlds-smallest-folding-scalpel-blade-multi

XM42-M – Modular Flamethrower

Friday, December 1st, 2017

Ladies and gentlemen, we have truly reached the pinnacle of tacticool; a flamethrower… with M-LOK rails!

Completely civilian legal (barring state and local laws), the XM42-M is an update to the XM42 personal flamethrower that debuted a couple years back. Upgrades include a sleek new look with billet aluminum construction, ambidextrous torch, a built-in voltage display, M-LOK rails, replaceable nozzle, and…

You can take the on-board tank off, and replace it with a 3 gallon backpack.

Check out more info at the official page: http://xm42.com/

Introducing the B•A•T TRIDENT: A Wildly Unique New Multitool LIVE On Kickstarter

Friday, November 3rd, 2017

Covert Products Group’s “Bring Anywhere Tool” has 12+ Functions in a Compact Size

Trident

NEW HAVEN, Connecticut – November 2, 2017 – In a market flooded with multitools and pocket gizmos, standing out from the crowd is no easy feat, especially on Kickstarter. With a unique shape and carry options, Covert Products Group’s new B.A.T. TRIDENT multitool moves the conversation of EDC tools in a totally new direction.

Inspired by the familiar silhouette of side-release buckles (as found on backpacks and bags), the B.A.T. TRIDENT expands on CPG’s “bring anywhere tool” concept that debuted on Kickstarter last year. The TRIDENT – which launched this week on Kickstarter – is engineered to contain 12+ useful functions in a compact, ergonomic and highly “carry-able” package. From daily utility to survival, the TRIDENT is designed to be carried (almost) anywhere, excel at a variety of tasks, and look good doing it.

“The perfect tool isn’t so perfect if you don’t have it with you,” explains the TRIDENT’s designer Thom O’Leary. “The TRIDENT is big enough to be useful, but small enough to carry just about anywhere, either visibly or covertly. Slip it onto a backpack strap, belt, keychain, or carry it in your pocket.”

The TRIDENT functions include:

· Phillips head screwdriver

· Razor edge

· Sharp piercing point

· Captured cutter

· Flat head screwdriver/pry tip

· Wire stripper

· Serrated fire rod scraper

· Saw edge

· Laser-etched 1” ruler

· Ergonomic bottle opener operated with the tool safely held in the sheath

· Fire starter rod (included) OR swap it out for an optional EmbriteTM glow pellet from TEC Accessories

· 3M SOLAS reflective sticker

· And the TRIDENT’s molded Kydex Sheath is designed to allow multiple attachment options for everyday carry

The TRIDENT is available now through December 1st on Kickstarter, with lowest prices available for early adopters. The TRIDENT will ship during or before March 2018.

www.kickstarter.com/projects/1800078419/bat-trident-12-function-mini-multi-tool

MRF Multitools – Universal 3.0 Credit Card EDC Multitool On Kickstarter

Friday, October 13th, 2017

There’s a saying that big things come in small packages. Such is the case with MRF Multitools’ Universal 3.0 multitool, which is pretty big on functionality, with its creators claiming it holds 60+ tools and functions, yet it’s sized the same as a credit card.

This list gives a count of all the on-board tools featured on the Universal 3.0, with your standard accompaniment of blades, openers, drivers, wrenches, etc. Relatively unique additions, such as a tire tread depth gauge and distance ruler, do single the Universal 3.0 out among its peers. Additionally, like many EDC tools, the Universal 3.0 will be made of 440с High Carbon Hardened Stainless Steel.

www.kickstarter.com/projects/mrfmultitools/universal-30-edc-credit-ard-multi-tool-knife-60-to

Engo – Multifunction Survival Tool Shovel

Saturday, August 26th, 2017

The 2.2 lbs Multifunction Survival Tool Shovel from Engo features a handle made of aircraft hardened aluminum with a Stainless Steel blade that chops and saws. The package also includes a paracord, whistle, knife, bottle opener, wire cutter, Magnesium fire starter, hoe, measuring tool and storage bag. Might be worth throwing in the trunk for a bad day.

store.engousa.com/p/multifunction-shovel-survival-tool

This article was originally featured on SSD.