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Triple threat: Hot new multitools

ORLANDO, Fla. — We thought everything that could be done to a multitool had been done, but they surprised us yet again.

These things are like Steve Austin — stronger, faster, better.

Whether it’s a subtle fine-tuning of a much-loved tool or a new design twist, there are a few tools worth considering if you’re ready to upgrade. (Or, if you’re like us, you lost yours. We’re hoping for LoJack technology in our next multitool.)

• SOG PowerAssist. It’s inevitable that you reach for your multitool only when one hand is already occupied in a delicate and typically off-balance operation. Having a tool you can open with one hand is nice, but SOG ups the ante with the PowerAssist, the first multitool we’ve seen that has two assisted-opening knife blades. We didn’t get a chance to play with the prototype, but we love the idea. It weighs 3.7 ounces and is 8.5 inches long. Look for the PowerAssist to arrive in stores in August; prices range from $115 to $122 depending on the steel finish.

Get a sneak peek at http://www.sogknives.com.

• Leatherman Charge series. For 2007, Leatherman took one of its most popular multitools and made it even tougher. The company discontinued the Charge Ti and XTi, replacing them with three new models featuring premium materials.

At the top of the heap is the Charge TTi, which boasts titanium handles and a combined tool set from the Ti and XTi — 20 tools, including scissors, a crimper and a cutting hook. The clip point knife is upgraded to S30V stainless steel. The Charge AL and ALX models have aluminum alloy handles in place of titanium, with the tool sets remaining the same as their predecessors. All are 4 inches long and weigh about 8 ounces. A black oxide version of each is available for tactical situations.

The TTi retails for $159, and the AL and ALX sell for $128; all are available now. Check them out at http://www.leatherman.com.

• Columbia River Knife and Tool Guppie. Years of watching MacGyver save the world with two rubber bands and a Swiss Army knife gave us great appreciation for the power of the multitool.

But sometimes, the heavy-duty machines we’re so fond of can be a bit much. Enter the Guppie, a new offering from Columbia River Knife and Tool. The carabiner-styled multitool weighs in at a little more than 4 ounces, and is easily attached to a D-ring or pack.

One end is an adjustable wrench that opens to a half-inch, perfect for light- to medium-duty jobs. The other end holds screwdriver bits, and four sizes come standard in the detachable bit carrier (which doubles as a bright white LED flashlight, bonus).

The Guppie also has a folding 2-inch knife blade and pocket clip, and its carabiner opening doubles as a bottle opener. At $30, it’s a cheap alternative to the standard folding multitool, one that we wouldn’t mind strapping to our backs.

Look for it to hit retailers in March or April. If you can’t wait that long, check it out now at http://www.crkt.com.