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Product DetailsManufacturer: SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Model: *S31-N Product features: - Exclusive Folding Plierhead Works At Several Angles
- Satin polished stainless steel handles and plierhead
- Individually locking components include knife, saw, screwdrivers, a
- Open: 6.4-inches, Closed: 4.3-inches, Weight: 6.2-ounces, Lifetime Warranty
- Nylon carry pouch
Accessories:
Tools and Hardware Reviews of SOG Specialty Knives & Tools *S31-N ParatoolCustomer Review: An Anachronism Summary: 3 Stars
I finally bought the SOG paratool after sitting on the sidelines for more than 5 years. Each time I handled a paratool in a store, I was struck by how awkward (if not dangerous) its design seemed. In the end, I bought one because Amazon had it for the right price (do NOT pay full price for this), and I was curious.
The paratool has remained virtually unchanged since it was first introduced in the 1990s. Its central feature, a truly peculiar set of pliers that fold out from the handles without fully opening the handles, is something of a fossil among today's multitool offerings, as it was designed to provide smooth-handled pliers (the original Leatherman did not have comfortable handles). There are literally dozens of multitools from various makers that now have both comfortable handles and more normal pliers.
It's difficult to describe the way in which the SOG paratool opens without using a video. So, I recommend that interested parties search youtube for examples. The critical thing to mention, however, is that the design results in uneven pressure on the pivot points of the pliers.
This stool is made of stainless steel, which is great, and it's got a fine set of tools. It's also lightweight (less than 7 oz.), which is also great. However, there are some serious flaws: the tools don't lock, which was normal when the tool was introduced in the 1990s, but which is not acceptable today. Also, the complicated method of opening the pliers increases the chance of being pinched.
The final verdict:
This tool is a must for multitool collectors; it's unique and an interesting example of the ingenuity that has gone into the American multitool industry since it was begun by Leatherman. It's also an appropriate tool for those who want a lightweight, all-steel tool with a modest set of pliers with comfortable handles and decent set of blades and tools. It is also awkward to open and close--if not dangerous!--and the pliers are the weakest made by SOG (and perhaps the weakest ones produced by any maker).
I should add one more thing: SOG allows the owner to modify the assemblage of tools of the paratool (as SOG does with all its high-end multitools).
Description of SOG Specialty Knives & Tools *S31-N ParatoolSOG S31 Paratool Multi - Tool. Operates at 140 - 180 angles for excellent versatility in the field. The only Multi-tool that allows you to operate at a variety of angles! With a unique, patented opening style, the Paratool is indispensable in tight spots. Features comfort grip handles for dexterity and maximum grip... makes every task a little easier. Features good-looking polished stainless steel finish, and comes with a nylon sheath. Tools included: Multi-angled plier head; Knife blade and saw blade; Phillips and flathead screwdrivers; Bottle / can opener; Rulers; Has needle-nose head; Measures 4 1/3" closed and 6 1/5 open. Weighs 6 1/5 oz.; Snag this sweet Tool for LESS! Order Now! WARNING: You must be 18 or older to purchase Cutlery. Cutlery cannot be shipped to Marin, Napa, Ventura and Yolo counties, CA; D.C.; MA; Miami-Dade & Sarasota counties, FL or Puerto Rico. Please check your State, County and City laws for restrictions before ordering Cutlery. SOG S31 Paratool Multi-Tool
Multitools
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