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(More customer reviews)This is one of six Multi-tools that I have had regular hands-on experience with. The others I own (or have owned) are the Gerber Multi-Plier Sport 400, an (original) L-Man Wave, an L-Man Charge TTi, a Victorinox Swisstool X and Gerber's Nautilus (ugh).
The SOG is probably at least as robust and sturdy as any of these others and in some respects (see below) it is better. I don't expect to be breaking mine any time soon. But there are trade-offs too and I just don't like it as well as I would like to like it. This tool is too solid and well built to rate it as a 3 but it falls short of a 5 star rating, IMO, which is too bad.
First the good news:
These are the most robust pliers I have ever seen on a multi-tool. I have a hard time imagining that a multitool could have better pliers. The jaws are sturdy, the compound gearing really works and the handle covers make these pliers comfortable to use. When you have to, you can really put the pressure on.If pliers are your top priority and you have big hands (this tool isn't tiny) the Powerlock might just be your best choice in a multi-tool.
The other area where the SOG excels is in smoothness... When you fold this baby open it feels GOOD. My Leatherman Charge TTi feels almost clunky by comparison.
In addition to these strengths are some additional niceties. The V-Cutter seems like it should be useful. I also like the 1/4" driver, which unlike some others, takes standard sockets. There are also a variety of crimpers on this tool that seem well designed though I haven't had occasion to use them yet.
Last of all - and this deserves special mention - the tool can be customized by the user. If you would like to replace the file with an extra knife blade, for example, you can get the components from the SOG Web Site and do your thing. I would expect some users to consider the PowerLock in a class by itself because of this feature.
But as I said there are also some disappointments, some in function others in form:
Functionally, it is a disappointment to find just one knife blade and a 1/2 serrated, chisel ground job, at that. I find that serrated blades are great for cutting rope but that a straight edged blade is far more versatile and more easily maintained. The SOG's file and saw seem pretty decent except for the fact that they could be larger considering this is a big tool - 10 oz. The knife blade is actually rather small too, barely larger than the one on the Gerber Sport 400, which weighs about 6.5 oz.
There are also some disappointments in the "form" of the tool. One disappointment has to do with accessibility of the inside tools, which another reviewer has described fairly well. Also, the locks on these inside tools don't feel quite right. They do lock solidly but you have to fiddle with them a bit more than seems necessary. Once you are used to handling the tool, it isn't really a problem but a learning curve shouldn't be necessary here.
Conclusion: The SOG Powerlock mates a superb pair of pliers with a fairly ordinary set of accessory tools that are just a little harder to access than normal. All seems to be solidly built for rugged use, though. If the accessory tools were of higher quality I would consider rating this tool at 5 stars.As it is, 4 stars is the best rating I can offer.
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SOG Specialty Knives and Tools B61-N EOD PowerLock, Black OxideProduct Description: GSA-approved, the B61-N EOD PowerLock multi-tool with black oxide finish showcases SOG's quality construction and military-grade performance. An ideal tool for crimping blasting caps and demolition cord without a lot of hand pressure, the B61-N comes with many EOD-specific features, including a crimper device within the handle that allows for uninterrupted use of the plying surface.
The SOG B61-N OED PowerAssist
Multi-Tool Includes:
Pliers/gripper
Hard wire cutter
Crimper
Double-toothed wood saw
half-serrated blade
Three-sided file
Large flat-head screwdriver
Phillips screwdriver
Awl
Can opener/small flat-head screwdriver
Bottle opener/medium flat-head screwdriver
Spring-loaded scissors
Rulers
Fuse well spike
1/4-inch driver
Lanyard ring
Nylon carrying pouch
Compound Leverage offers improved plier and wire cutter performance. View larger.The B61 weighs just 9.6 ounces. View larger.Durable components deliver job-specific performance. View larger.Compound Leverage Technology and Explosive Ordnance Features Provide Easy, Safe UseDriven by an exclusive interlocking gear system, SOG's patented Compound Leverage technology is a legend in folding tools. With the proprietary technology's increased leverage, SOG pliers generate twice the power of their conventional counterparts, minimizing the amount of hand pressure that is required to get the most torque out of the tool.
SOG is the only company to apply Compound Leverage technology to EOD-specific (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) multi-tools. This technology makes the B61-N an ideal tool for crimping blasting caps and demolition cord with minimal hand pressure. The position of the crimper device within the handle is an EOD-specific feature unique to SOG. This design serves to minimize collateral damage to the crimper and allows you to have uninterrupted use of the plying surface (unlike other brands' tools). Additionally, the crimper produces non-flaring, high pull-out strength crimps that meet government fuse well specifications.
The B61-N is GSA approved.
Heavy-Duty Components Meet Military-Grade NeedsWith over a dozen components, from pliers to a saw, and industrial-grade, quality design, the B61-N includes everything a professional soldier or weekend warrior needs, including the first foldable 1/4-inch drive that can turn sockets and hex screwdriver tips (with the use of a standard adapter sold separately). Additionally, this multi-tool features patent-pending foldable spring-loaded scissors that have spring tension in the open position only, providing extra safety.
Smart, Durable Design Ensures Years of Effortless UseLike all the multi-tools in the PowerLock Series, the B61-N EOD PowerLock multi-tool can be opened and closed with just a flick of the wrist. Additionally, all of the tool's components lock open with the patent-pending Piano-Locks, which allow you to close components with a simple press.
The B61-N's stainless steel handles have a tactical black oxide coating for low reflectivity, and they are ergonomically designed to provide comfort on even the toughest jobs. Additionally, the handles have pivoting covers that improve hand comfort and allow you to exert added pressure on difficult jobs.
And with durable construction that features gear covers and hex bolts, the B61-N is surprisingly light, weighing just 9.6 ounces. Manageable enough to take anywhere, this multi-tool comes with a nylon pouch with belt loop for convenient portability.
This multi-tool is backed by a lifetime warranty that protects against defects in manufacturing and materials.
About SOG: Strong, Innovative Specialty ToolsSOG originally stood for Studies and Observation Group, an elite joint services military group designed to handle covert operations during the Vietnam War. SOG Specialty Knives & Tools was founded in the spirit of this elite group and became the first knife manufacturer to offer an expanded line that included fixed blades, folding knives, and multipurpose tools.
Each SOG product is created by company Founder and Chief Engineer, Spencer Frazer. Known for their uncompromising style and performance, these knives and tools showcase innovation, dependability, and a unique, futuristic style that has garnered awards and recognition worldwide. SOG products have also won favor among law enforcement, military, and industrial customers that rely on their tools to perform flawlessly in the toughest, most adverse conditions.
What's in the BoxB61-N PowerLock multi-tool with black oxide finish and nylon carrying pouch.
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