Core77
The EDC market seems insatiable. The latest multitool being snapped up by those who have to have a Philips, flathead and cutting blade on them at all times is this Multi-Tool Capsule by multitool peddler Wyn Labs. I at least have to admit that they're trying to do more with less:
Those little stainless steel rings snap into grooves on the shaft of each tool and mate with another groove machine on the inside of the next tool, which allows them to snap into one another.
The keyring is actually a carabiner, and is supposed to be substantial enough to allow you to get some torque on the tool.
As much as I poke fun at EDC gear, I'm impressed with several things about their designers. One is their relentless creativity. How many different forms can you possibly come up with for a thing that holds bits?
Two is their ability to consistently generate desire in the target market. The genre's CMF palette is incredibly limited—a few shades of metal, a couple different finishes—yet these designers consistently wring these into shapes that people want to buy.
(Note: PVD = Physical Vapor Deposition)
Which leads me to the third thing, which is their ability to sell. The market's super-saturated. Few of us need another multi-tool. Yet time and again, they kill it on Kickstarter. At press time the Multi-Tool Capsule had $50k and counting on a $7,500 goal, with 24 days left to pledge.
Enter a caption (optional)
I’m a lapsed industrial designer. I was born in NYC and figured I’d die there, but a few years ago I abandoned New York to live on a farm in the countryside with my wife. We have six dogs.
Webinar
Create a Core77 Account
Already have an account? Sign In
By creating a Core77 account you confirm that you accept the Terms of Use
Please enter your email and we will send an email to reset your password.
A Minimal Multi-Tool Capsule
Mr Rain Noe asks how many of these small objects people need. The clue to the answer is that small objects - carried with the user everywhere - tend to get lost. Replacements are affordable.
A PZ2 bit is invaluable in the modern built environment - though of course more useful when attached to an 18v driver! And of course, many people are well served by the toolkit in the car or the Leatherman in their belt.
I guess my biggest question is: How often are we ever in a tight spot where these tools aren't close by in a drawer or garage?
10% of what you are buying is a (marginally) functional tool, 90% is a MacGyver fantasy.