By Dexter Ewing, KnifeCenter Product Reviewer

When SwissTech burst onto the market with their small Microtechnician multitool that locks onto your keyring, they set a new standard for compact multitools. These little tools go everywhere you do, and feature commonly used tools such as both kinds of screwdrivers and pliers. When I reviewed the Microtechnician (text of review can be found elsewhere on the KCI site), I immediately fell in love with it. Even later on, when SwissTech released the gold TiN coated version of this tool I had to get one! Even though I have had it attached to my keychain for a long time, I have only used it probably several times at most. But it's just knowing that if I ever need simple tools like the ones on the Microtechnician, I have them right there with me. "What else from this company could be better than this?" I asked myself once. Well, seems like that question has now been answered. SwissTech has added another interesting tool to their line of keychain carry tools ; the Utilikey UST (Ultralight Survival Tool). The Utilikey is shaped like an actual key (and is a little thicker), so it blends in well with the rest of your keys.

CONSTRUCTION AND TOOLS

Constructed out of 420 stainless steel and weighing in at a barely detectable _ an ounce, the Utilikey is actually made of two pieces joined by a pivot. This way, the tool can be opened up to two separate indexed positions that promote ease of use of all the Utilikey's accoutrements. The tools found on this handy little tool are as follows: micro (eyeglass style) and medium flathead drivers, a small Phillips driver, bottle opener, and a partially serrated blade. A long, oversized nail nick on the blade provides ease of opening the tool up to attach/detach from the keyring. As said before, the Utilikey can be used in two positions: a 90 degree angle for using the screwdrivers and bottle opener, and 180 degrees for any small cutting jobs. The indexed stops that lock the tool in the two positions engage crisply and snugly. When you are using any of the Utilikey's implements, the tool will not fold up on you. In regards to the blade - be careful ; it comes from the factory razor sharp, so use extra caution when opening or closing the Utilikey so that there will not be any accidental "bloodletting". And when the Utilikey is attached to your keyring, there is no need to worry about your hand coming into contact with the blade. SwissTech has machined a groove into one half of the Utilikey, creating sort of a pocket for the cutting edge to rest in when the tool is closed.

TOTING THE UTILIKEY

I carry my Utilikey on my keychain along with the Microtechnician. No doubt about it - with this combination, you will definitely be prepared for any minor repair tasks that have the capability of sneaking up on you on any given day! Also, the Utilikey is better than carrying a keychain folder, because of the Utilikey's compact size and very minimal weight. Also, since the Utilikey is very affordable, you can buy one for yourself and several others to give as gifts. Each Utilikey comes in a felt lined, hard plastic presentation box.

CONCLUSION

Overall, I think the Utilikey is a really neat little tool. Since it is so lightweight and unobtrusive, it is something that one can attach on their keychain and forget about it until you need one of its tools. So whether you are in the office, on the road, or simply at home, the Utilikey will definitely come in handy when you need it. And since it is so darn inexpensive, why not get one the next time you place an order with the KnifeCenter of the Internet?
ORDER NOW!

Dexter Ewing

Have a knife day!