My thoughts and views on the Swiss-Tech Micro-Max & Micro-Pro Micro Keychain Tools.
Keychain multitools and knives are pretty common these days and it’s not rare to find everyday folks carrying a Swiss army knife on their keyring. I think what makes these small tools so important and useful is their knack for being near us precisely when we need them. It’s not uncommon to hear a story from someone about how they were in a position to have need of their multitool or knife and it wasn’t with them. Tools such as Swiss+Tech’s keychain series are small enough to be on your person at all times, potentially avoiding such mishaps.
The two tools discussed herein are well-built and seem to hold up well to everyday carry and use. Made from thick stainless steel and riveted together, the joints feel sturdy and a bit better equipped to withstand stress and pressure than their contemporaries. The tools are functional and of a decent size, though you may find the length and reach of the pliers to be lacking where serious torque is required. The drivers suffer the same setback but for most small around-the-house and office jobs, they’ll work great.
While both tools feel somewhat weighty in your hand, they’re actually relatively lightweight and won’t tax your pocket too much other than their overall size and bulk compared to most other pocket tools. This is easily remedied by use of the fifth pocket on most jeans or by relegating the tool to its own pocket. The ability to clip it to any sort of ring or loop (by using the pliers in the folded position) also allows you to attach it to a backpack or purse strap, chain, lanyard, belt loop, or any other random item that will fit within the pliers’ opening. Doing so offers the possibility of utilizing these tools as pocket or suspension “danglers”, as described in the video, making a useful tether for other EDC items.
Some might find dissatisfaction in the lack of cutting tools of any real length — the folding Micro Keychain tools all lack scissors, as well as a knife blade or saw. However, I feel that the size and functionality of them warrants carrying them in addition to your standard EDC knife or even a small Swiss Army knife. I carry mine often in addition to my Leatherman Squirt P4 and I feel between both tools, I can tackle most any small or light duty task that may come my way. The combined weight and size of both tools (a Micro tool and Leatherman mini tool) still makes a great alternative to a midsize multitool if bulk and weight are a concern.
In all, I think Swiss+Tech’s Micro-Max and Micro-Pro are both low-cost and high-value — one of this reviewer’s favorite combinations. They won’t dismantle your lawnmower (at least, not easily!), but for quick fixes around the home, office, or even out and about, they’re great. As I’ve discussed previously with small keychain tools, keep your expectations realistic — in line with both the size and price of these gadgets — and you will likely find great satisfaction in their abilities. Recommended!
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Post time: Jul-25-2017