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The EDC Tool Roll: Wera Kraftform Kompact 25 Screwdriver

By on May 15, 2017 in EDC, The EDC Tool Roll

The EDC Tool Roll is a feature on Jerking the Trigger in which we profile various every day carry worthy tools. The tools shown aren’t multi-tools but rather real tools, that by virtue of their compact size, light weight, usefulness, or unique functionality, can find a place in any range kit, emergency kit, or every day carry bag.

Feel free to comment on the tools that you carry so we can all learn! The discussion on these posts has been very valuable so far.

There are times when only a full size screw driver will do but, they can be a little awkward and a little dangerous to carry in a pocket. That is where the Wera Kraftform Kompact 25 Screwdriver comes in. This handy little bugger has some tricks up its sleeve that make it both pocketable and long enough to reach an AR-15 grip screw.

The Kraftform Kompact 25 features what Wera calls a “Bayonet Blade” meaning that the shaft can be depressed and locked into the handle. The screwdriver made be used in this compact mode or the user can press the collar to instantly deploy the full length driver shaft under spring tension. Pressing the collar down again when the Bayonet Blade is extended allows it to be removed from the handle completely for use as a bit adapter for a drill or impact driver.

There is another feature that keeps this screwdriver compact for carry. It has the ability to store 6 bits inside the handle. There are bits included or you can substitute any of your own standard 1/4″ hex shank bits. The bits are carried in a compartment that is accessed by pressing a button on the butt of the handle. The handled snaps open under spring tension when the button is pressed.

Wera’s bit holder design is the best I’ve used. There is no play or wobble when the bit is installed. You simply press the bit into the holder to capture it or pull up on the free-spinning collar to release it. The collar spins so that you can place your fingers there to stabilize a screw or bolt while you drive it which can really come in handy if you have the space to use such a feature.

This has become my favorite screwdriver to have on hand when I am working around our homestead or on the shooting range. It is the only driver that I have found that can be both pocketable and large enough to do the work of a full size screwdriver. It’s size means I can actually reach and then apply appropriate torque to an AR-15 grip screw which is just about impossible with any other multitool or EDC oriented screwdriver.

I should note that while this is considerably more compact than a full size screwdriver, the handle still has some bulk. It is pocketable but, if you were going to carry it for EDC, you would probably want to keep it in your pack most of the time. It does fit inside both the Triple Seven Gear Micro Kit and Maxpedition Micro Pocket Organizer “tool rolls” that we have profiled in this series.

Where to Buy: I can’t find these in any brick and mortar store in my area but there are a handful of sources online. It is worth shopping around for the best price. Ebay sellers often have good prices on these. When I purchased mine a couple of years ago, Amazon was the best choice: Wera Kraftform Kompact 25 on Amazon

Alternatives: I haven’t found a true alternative for this since it is essentially a full size driver that packs small enough to carry, but we have profiled other drivers on The EDC Tool Roll that I know work well:

Do you have a compact driver that you prefer? Tell us about it below.

The EDC Tool Roll: Doc Allen’s VersaTool

By on May 9, 2017 in EDC, The EDC Tool Roll

The EDC Tool Roll is a feature on Jerking the Trigger in which we profile various every day carry worthy tools. The tools shown aren’t multi-tools but rather real tools, that by virtue of their compact size, light weight, usefulness, or unique functionality, can find a place in any range kit, emergency kit, or every day carry bag.

Feel free to comment on the tools that you carry so we can all learn! The discussion on these posts has been very valuable so far.

I’ve owned a Doc Allen’s Versatool for more than 12 years. I bought it while I was in college and have been using it ever since.

The VersaTool consists of 3 main parts and several accessories. There is a bit adapter that allows it to accept standard 1/4″ hex bits. The bit driver is attached to a 1/4″ socket adapter so that when the bit adapter is removed, you can install 1/4″ drive sockets. Finally, the socket adapter is attached to a steel loop for a handle with detents in several positions. This configuration allow the VersaTool to be set up inline like a typical screw driver, like a t-handle screw driver, like an offset handle screwdriver for the most torque, or fold neatly in half for storage.

Even after all this time, I still like this tool. It packs small thanks to its folding design but it can still offer reach similar to a full size screwdriver if you use the extension. The offset handle position is angled slightly which makes it comfortable and easy to put a lot more torque into a faster than you typically can with compact bit driver. The ability to use sockets is a huge plus.

The tool also includes a number of bits in a bit carrier, a bit extension, and a small black pouch to carry it all. The quality seems to be very good. Everything is made of steel and mine still works like new after 12 years.

Where to Buy: I purchased mine from CountyComm. They only carry the “Pro” version but the only difference appears to be the addition of some extra bits and another bit carrier. The price is right at less than $11 and I can never resist picking up a few other gadgets when I order from CountyComm.

Alternatives: I carry my Fix It Sticks (click to read about them on The EDC Tool Roll) more often than any other dedicated driver now. I like the ability to store 4 bits on the tool and switch between them extremely quickly.

Do you have a compact driver that you prefer? Tell us about it below.

The EDC Tool Roll: Pliers Comparison – Knipex Cobra, Channellock 424, and Tekton 37521

By on April 28, 2017 in The EDC Tool Roll

The EDC Tool Roll is a feature on Jerking the Trigger in which we profile various every day carry worthy tools. The tools shown aren’t multi-tools but rather real tools, that by virtue of their compact size, light weight, usefulness, or unique functionality, can find a place in any range kit, emergency kit, or every day carry bag.

Feel free to comment on the tools that you carry so we can all learn! The discussion on these posts has been very valuable so far.

You ask, JTT delivers. This post will serve as a comparison between the 3 pliers that we have profiled so far in The EDC Tool Roll series. You can check out their earlier reviews below for more background:

Knipex Cobra 125

Channellock 424 and Tekton 37521

This isn’t really going to be a fair comparison because the Knipex Cobras smoke the other pliers in this list on everything except price but that doesn’t mean the others are useless or junk. In fact, the Tekton 37521 might be one of the best values we have profiled so far.

Quality – The Knipex Cobras are plainly the highest quality pliers in the bunch. They are beautifully drop forged, perfectly ground, and have knife-hard jaws that grip tenaciously. Then I think the Tekton Pliers, which are made in the USA, win out over the Channellocks on the strength of the Tekton’s adjustable pivot which make them feel tighter.

Features – The Knipex Cobras are feature rich, while the others are straight forward and functional. The Knipex pliers have very hard jaws with teeth that are set opposed to the direction that you turn the pliers which allows them to actually lock into whatever you are trying to turn. They also have a massive adjustment range and large jaws which is key for EDC pliers – something that needs to be small enough to carry but versatile enough (and large enough) to use on a variety of fasteners.

The Tektons are only slightly larger than the Channellock 424s but that little but of extra bulk gives you larger jaws, more comfortable grips, and a more functional adjustable pivot. The Tektons take second place on features.

Size – The Channellock 424s are the smallest and lightest pliers in this comparison. The Tektons and Knipex Cobras are similar in size with the Tekton pliers being ever so slightly larger in most dimensions. As mentioned above, the Knipex Cobras have the largest jaws by a long shot. All three of them are easily pocketable.

Price – This is where the Tekton and Channellock come out ahead of the Knipex Cobras. The Channellock 424 cost around $12-14, the Tekton 37521 are usually $10-12, and the Knipex Cobras come in at a hefty $28-38 (I’ve seen them lower but you’ll have to really shop around). I’ve purchased all three and I believe the Knipex Cobras justify their price. There is just nothing else like them and I am willing to pay for that. However, if you can’t stomach the Knipex price, the Tektons are a smoking deal.

How to Choose – If you absolutely need the smallest and lightest pliers for your kit, get the Channellock 424. If you want EDC pliers that can do anything small pliers can do but can be pressed into the work of larger pliers, choose the Knipex. If you want the best value on a capable pair of pliers for your EDC tool kit, the Tektons wins.

Where to Buy – Channellock are almost certainly available at a hardware store near you. Tektons are sold almost exclusively online. Knipex can sometimes be found at Sears Hardware or other stores but online is likely your best bet. All three are available from Amazon:

Knipex Cobra 87 01 125

Channellock 424 on Amazon

Tekton 37521 on Amazon

There are a number of 4.5-5″ adjustable pliers on the market from Irwin and others. Do you have compact adjustable pliers that you prefer? Tell us about it below.

The EDC Tool Roll: Knipex CoBolt Cutters

By on April 18, 2017 in The EDC Tool Roll

The EDC Tool Roll is a feature on Jerking the Trigger in which we profile various every day carry worthy tools. The tools shown aren’t multi-tools but rather real tools, that by virtue of their compact size, light weight, usefulness, or unique functionality, can find a place in any range kit, emergency kit, or every day carry bag.

Feel free to comment on the tools that you carry so we can all learn! The discussion on these posts has been very valuable so far.

Today’s tool in The EDC Tool Roll series will be a little bit of a departure in that it will not fit completely in most pockets though it is still very easy to carry compared to similar tools. The Knipex CoBolt Cutter series of tools are the kind of tools that appeal to anyone concerned about being prepared for emergencies and they are exceedingly easy to carry compared to even the smallest traditional bolt cutters.

The Knipex CoBolt Cutters feature a compound leverage hinge and are most commonly available with an 8″ overall length (though there is a 10″ version that is harder to find and more expensive). They are basically a pair of compound leverage bolt cutters that are no larger than most pairs of diagnal pliers/wire cutters.

Unlike many larger bolt cutters, most of which are very poorly made, the CoBolt Cutters feature cutting edges that are hardened to 64 HRC. That is as hard as a high end knife. The cutting edge is so hard and the compound leverage is so effective that you will be surprised with what you can cut. I’ve cut small to medium padlocks (especially cheaper locks that aren’t hardened), all kinds of  fencing and heavy wire, large nails and screws, chain, even a sling stud that was too long during a recent installation on a Ruger 10/22 stock. The applications for carrying one of set of these in an urban BOB are nearly endless. You can cut your way into and out of trouble with relative ease.

The CoBolt Cutters are available in a number of different versions but the basic version is my favorite. The Knipex 71 01 200 is the most common model and likely the most versatile. I also have a version that is identical except the jaws are notched to allow them to cut larger diameter stock at the highest leverage point (Model 71 31 200). CoBolt Cutters are also available with angled heads, molded grips, and countless other versions but, again, the basic model is the most versatile (and most affordable).

Where to Buy: Knipex CoBolt Cutters are commonly used in trades so they turn up regularly on Ebay in decent used condition. I’ve purchased both of mine this way and paid less than $15 each. As long as the cutting edges are in good shape and they aren’t pitted, they clean up easily with some oil and a Scotch-Brite pad.

If you can’t find a used pair or you prefer to buy at a brick and mortar, Sears Hardware usually has the basic model at a decent price. Otherwise, Amazon is a great place to buy: Knipex 71 01 20 CoBolt

You can explore all the available CoBolt cutters here.

Alternatatives: I don’t really know of a true alternative for the CoBolt Cutters. I guess a pair of folding compact bolt cutters would be the closest but even those will be considerably larger and likely more expensive for a decent example.

If you have a tool you can recommend, tell us about it below. The comments have been a valuable source of information in this series.

The EDC Tool Roll: Maxpedition Micro Pocket Organizer

By on April 11, 2017 in EDC, The EDC Tool Roll

The EDC Tool Roll is a feature on Jerking the Trigger in which we profile various every day carry worthy tools. The tools shown aren’t multi-tools but rather real tools, that by virtue of their compact size, light weight, usefulness, or unique functionality, can find a place in any range kit, emergency kit, or every day carry bag.

Feel free to comment on the tools that you carry so we can all learn! The discussion on these posts has been very valuable so far.

As much as I prefer the Triple 7 Gear line of pocket organizers, their availability has been a intermittent and several of you have asked for alternatives. Maxpedition seemed like the easy choice with their long history of EDC organizers and it turns out that they offer one of the only other truly pocketable pocket organizers on the market… which is kind of ironic. I don’t know who has pockets large enough to fit some of the so-called “pocket” organizers out there but it isn’t me.

The Maxpedition Micro Pocket Organizer is the smallest (5.5″ x 3.5″ x 1″) in their extensive line of pocket organizers and it is completely sufficient for me. The pouch has a clamshell design that is closed with a perimeter zipper. The front exterior of the pouch has a mesh slip pocket and the rear has a small grab handle. The interior of the pouch has 5 elastic loops, a slip pocket on each side, and a small loop for attaching a lanyard.

The quality is typical Maxpedition so it should last a long time. I prefer this organizer to others in their line due to its small size and because it isn’t festooned with belt loops and PALS webbing that I will never use. It’s the simplest and most compact they offer, which is exactly why I prefer it.

Where to Buy: Maxpedition products are available all over the place. If you local gun store carries them, buy there. They can probably use the business these day! If not, Amazon is a good stand by: Maxpedition Micro Pocket Organizer on Amazon

Alternatives: My favorite pocket organizer is the Triple 7 Gear Micro Kit which is great, made in the USA gear, if you can catch them in stock. Maxpedition also makes the Mini Pocket Organizer and EDC Pocket Organizer that might still fit in some pockets. They are larger than the Micro but offer more organization features.

If you have an organizer, tool roll, or other tool that you can recommend, tell us about it below. The comments have been a valuable source of information in this series.

Contents in the image above:

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