Though we’d want it to be different, life isn’t exactly made for us to be able to sail through calm waters, at least not all the time. What one learns out of such situations is how to rely on the right tools and save precious time, but how do you know the exact type of tool you need in a certain scenario? You can’t just carry your toolbox with you when you go out and about, and luckily, thanks to ingenious inventions, as are the Leatherman tools, you don’t have to.
As it’s said, experience is the best teacher, and so it was when Tim Leatherman, US mechanical engineer and inventor, found himself in need of several tools which inspired him to create the pocket survival tool back in 1983, and that’s how Leatherman turned into a name representing multi-tools and knives. Fast forward to today, with numerous designs created, what’s the tool one can rely on in emergency situations? The Leatherman raptor, of course.
With only 164 grams of weight, this tool is in fact six tools in one, starting from the 420HC (high carbon) folding medical shears, ruler, strap cutter, ring cutter, carbide glass breaker and oxygen tank wrench. Made from durable materials, such as stainless steel, tungsten carbide, zytel for the handles making it possible to have a firm grip even in hot and cold environments, all with a powder coat finish make the Leatherman raptor the perfect ally and a must-have for firefighters, paramedics, military and handymen alike. The lanyard hole for easier carrying and the replaceable pocket clip are among the useful features of this high performance tool that would come in handy.
Even with continuous use the shears don’t get dull, so you don’t have to worry about loss in sharpness with time. Though it’s solid and sturdy, it’s lightweight, compact and easy to store. When it comes to maintenance, great news is it can be taken apart for thorough cleaning and you won’t have to worry about bacteria, dirt and grime piling up. To best remove debris just clean the tool in a solution of detergent and mild water. In case it comes in touch with salt water, just rinse it in fresh water.
Once you’ve finished with the cleaning, you can apply light machine oil to protect the raptor from corrosion and further eliminate moisture. Though it’s a bit pricier than regular shears, you certainly wouldn’t be sorry for the extra money spent as this multi-tool happens to be the perfect investment and can be your helping hand in a number of situations.
