Off Duty, Technology - Air Force Times

Many jobs, one tool

For 2008, advancements in multi-tools are going beyond the standard knife/plier tweaks. Lighter, redesigned models abound, and hooks are hot.

n Gerber

FLiK

A compact design paired with industrial strength and professional-grade functionality gives the FLiK major appeal. You can deploy the pliers with one hand and the eight other tools, including a saw, are on the outboard side.

Cost: $106

http://www.gerbergear.com

n Spyderco

byrdRench

The full-sized locking blade is a welcome feature in this transformative cool tool. Its body consists of two stainless steel halves connected with a pivot, creating a slip joint plier on one end and an adjustable >\zn-inch wrench on the opposite end. The design means you can use the components independently or simultaneously.

Cost: $120

http://www.spyderco.com

n Buck

Hartsook 860

This 4¼-inch ultralight neck knife — that’s right, a neck knife — is also ultraslim, fixed-blade and low profile. Perfect for the never-know-what-might-happen crowd.

Cost: $37

http://www.buckknives.com

n Benchmade

8 & 7H20 Hooks

You can slice through flak jackets, tubular webbing, leather boots, Kevlar and more with these handy new hooks.

The black powder-coated 8 Hook has a larger handle for a heavy gloved grip. The 7H2O features an orange vinyl grip and fully corrosion-resistant materials for wet weather or rough seas.

Cost: $30/$50

http://www.benchmade.com

1100 Pen

If it all goes to hell in a handbasket, the back end of this ergonomic, anodized “tactical pen” doubles as a punch weapon. God help you.

Cost: $120

http://www.benchmade.com