Hectors Blog

Magcraft NSN0834 1-Inch by 1/4-Inch by 1/10-Inch Rare Earth Block Magnets, 12-Count Description:

Rare earth magnets are the strongest type of permanent magnet currently made. They are amazingly powerful for their size and have innumerable uses. These block magnets are 1.000 inch (25.4mm) long, 0.250 inch (6.4mm) wide and 0.100 inch (2.5mm) thick. They are magnetized through the thickness. They are composed of grade 40 neodymium iron boron magnetic material and are plated in nickel-copper-nickel for a shiny corrosion resistant finish. Their individual pull force is approximately 5 lbs. Maximum working temperature is 176 F (80 C). Magnets may chip and crack if allowed to snap together.

• Amazon Sales Rank: #2324 in Home Improvement
• Size: 1.000″ L x 0.250″ W x 0.100″ T
• Brand: Magcraft
• Model: NSN0834
• Number of items: 1
• Dimensions: .25″ h x .10″ w x 1.00″ l, .1 pounds

Features

• Neodymium iron boron (NdFeB) rare earth magnets
• Grade - N40
• Dimensional tolerance - +/-0.005 Inch
• Plating - nickel-copper-nickel
• Maximum working temperature - 176-Degree Fahrenheit (80-Degree Celsius)

Customer Reviews:

Super Strong Little Boogers
The outer packaging these came in was pretty poor, but i already reviewed that separately, and it did not affect the product at all as the inner container DID hold them very secure - it was only surprising.

These magnets are EXTREMELY strong. They are so strong, in fact, you will have difficulty pulling them apart from each other the first time you open them as they come in a block (like in the picture). Although the dimensions are clearly and accurately described in the product description, it still might shock you at how small they are when you hold the real life magnet in your hand, but they still work exceedingly well for my purposes and therefore receive 5 stars!

RIDICULOUS !!!!
Update: April 4, 2010:
They turned out to be just PERFECT!!! Upgraded the rating to 5 stars. Once attached to any larger object, you will get enough leverage to easily pull the object with magnet from any surface. So I’ve to agree with the review by JP Feast. As for the packaging, it was weard, but it looked cool. Also it mentions on the label, to keep the magnets in original package for air travel.

Review: March 15, 2010:
Be aware! These babies are ridiculous strong!!!! They are very hard to pull apart. They are also very hard to pull from any surface. I have to slide them on the surface to get to the edge of the surface to be able to get some leverage to pull it off. They might just be too strong for what I need. That’s the only reason why I’m rating 4 stars instead of 5.

From the Manufacturer
Rare earth magnets are the strongest type of permanent magnet currently made. They are amazingly powerful for their size and have innumerable uses. These block magnets are 1.000-Inch (25.4-mm) long, 0.250-Inch (6.4-mm) wide and 0.100-Inch (2.5-mm) thick. They are magnetized through the thickness. They are composed of grade 40 neodymium iron boron magnetic material and are plated in nickel-copper-nickel for a shiny corrosion resistant finish. Their individual pull force is approximately 5-Pound. Maximum working temperature is 176-Degree Fahrenheit (80-Degree Celsius). Magnets may chip and crack if allowed to snap together.

GE TL26139 25′ Coil Phone Cord Black Description:

Coil Cord provides extra length or replaces worn or damaged handset cords.

• Brand: General Electric
• Model: 96139
• Dimensions: 7.50″ h x 1.75″ w x 4.75″ l, .30 pounds

Features

• 25 foot cord

Customer Reviews:

phone cord
Nice long phone cord, but it did stretch out of shape a bit after a few days.

Disapointment
I bought this cord for a Christmas present with a new phone. We put the phone & cord up on Dec 27th and by January 1 it was streched out and looking horrible. It looked like it was decades old. The bad part is we don’t have kids, and hardly use the phone. I wouldn’t buy this again.

Wraps around the doorframe!
Since the midwest has storms that knocks out electricity, I stay away from cordless phones! Good ole corded phone doesn’t need electric so everyone should have at least one in your home. I like to do housework while talking on the phone. This cord is an improvement over the cord that comes with your phone! It goes far, stretches around doorframes and keeps its shape after you hang up. And has taken the abuse of getting run over with the sweeper.

Senco PC1010 1-Horsepower Peak 1-Gallon Compressor Description:

Portable hand carry, ultra quiet and lightweight. Direct drive motor. Single 1 gallon aluminum tank. Lubeless pump. Ideal for finish and trim or hobby and craftwork. Includes: Regulator, pressure gauges, 1 4″ universal coupler, and air filter.

• Amazon Sales Rank: #5379 in Home Improvement
• Brand: Senco
• Model: PC1010 Compressor
• Dimensions: 22.00 pounds

Features

• Hand carry-ultra quiet and lightweight
• Oil-less
• 1/2-Horsepower 1-Gallon capacity
• Comfortable cushioned handle grip
• Aluminum cylinder

Customer Reviews:

Have compressor will travel
This is a great second compressor. I wouldn’t buy this as a primary or first compressor but it works fine to support small nail guns. My other portable weighs 68 pounds and will keep up with 1 to 2 framing or roofing nailers. My shoulders ache from the number of times I have lugged it up 78 steps to a job site. This goes anywhere with a bunch of tools in the other hand.

Other than nail guns, NO it won’t do much at 0.7 cu ft per min when paint spray guns need 10 times that, and a blow gun will empty the tank in 10 seconds or less. But seriously, this compressor gives me at least 10 shots from my 16 ga finish nailer before the motor kicks in; a couple more off of an 18 ga finish nailer, and as an acid test, I got 3 shots from a 3 1/4 inch framing nailer (not recommended but if all I need is 10 nails I’d rather carry this in - especially considering that my ripe old age keeps me from doing much serious hammering!)

Last word, the first one I received had a leaky reed valve and it had to be replaced by Amazon - I’m very happy with the replacement and have used it on several job sites.

Easy on the arm!
As a general contractor I have several compressors. At least 90% of the time I grab an Emglo because they do everything I need except texturing. But I’ve grown fond of this little Senco WHEN IT IS USED PROPERLY! That means if I have a small trim project or a VERY small framing project it does the job, and both takes up less room and is a lot easier to pack around. It’ll drive 3″ framing nails no problem…when the tank is topped off, but the last couple nails before the compressor cycles always need to be hammer finished. Same is true for 15 or 18 gauge finish nails. When the tank is just about to cycle the nails don’t completely set. My workers love the Senco…much to my chagrin. For one, it’s light, and second…it takes FOREVER to refill (relatively speaking) and my guys love to stand there with their thumbs you know where taking a break every 10 to 15 nails or so! So if used for small jobs…or trim where you nail one piece at a time while cutting, well then it’s a champ. But if you tend to cut trim for an entire room, then want to shoot it on quick…this Senco will frustrate you no end. You end up hand nail setting too many nails, or else you have to stop frequently, unhook the air hose, drain a little air from the tank until it cycles, then wait for the darn thing to fill. If you use it right… 5 stars. If you use it as your go to compressor… 2.5 stars tops. I hope this helps!

nifty little trim compressor
For my applications of easy carry in and out, it’s been terrific for lightweight 18ga. finishing.

On a small renovation project yesterday, 4 doors jambs and trim were easy (1″ to 2″ 18/16ga brads) The very least of my problems was waiting for the little Senco to catch up. Been using it for about 5 months, shot about 10,000 brads. So far it’s been flawless.

Very low noise as compressors go, and neat little rubber suction feet that keep it from skidding around and marring up a nice floor.

Amazon.com Product Description
Designed especially for finish and trim work as well as a variety of crafts and hobbies, the Senco PC1010 Compressor is a lightweight and ultra-quiet choice. This 1 HP compressor offers high performance in a compact, portable package and provides ample pressure for a wide range of small to medium jobs that require the use of pneumatic tools.

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The Senco PC1010 Compressor: Is easily portable at just 20 pounds. Delivers 20 to 44 drives per minute. Offers durability thanks to an aluminum cylinder.

The PC1010 is easily transported from site to site. View larger.

With 1 HP of power, the PC1010 lets you easily install door casings and floor molding.

Lightweight and Portable for Easy Maneuverability
Weighing in at just 20 pounds, the PC1010 is easy to carry from site to site as you work. And because it measures a compact 12.5 x 10.3 x 14 inches (WxHxD), it’s ideal for jobs with limited work space. A cushioned handle grip makes it comfortable to carry and hold, and its compact size also means it won’t take up too much room in your shop.

Efficient, Mess-Free Operation
Capable of delivering 20 to 44 drives per minute, depending on the tool and application, the PC1010 features a direct drive motor/pump that provides extra-efficient operation for a variety of jobs. And the pump is lube-free, which means you won’t have to worry about the mess and disposal issues involved with working with oil. An aluminum cylinder offers reliable durability.

Versatile Enough for Both Professionals and DIYers
With a one-gallon capacity, the PC1010 is ideal for a range of renovation and home improvement jobs, as well as for hobbies and crafts. Additionally, it takes only 128 seconds to pump up and 35 seconds to recover, so you won’t waste valuable time waiting to have enough power to complete your jobs.

Significantly quieter than pancake compressors, the PC1010 makes very little noise while running, so you won’t have to worry about disturbing neighbors or waking napping babies while completing in-house jobs. And its rubber-covered feet won’t scratch hardwood floors, so you can feel comfortable using it in your home.

The PC1010 is backed by a one-year warranty.

About Senco
For over 50 years, Senco Products, Inc. has provided high-quality products to make it easier for both professionals and remodelers to complete a wide variety of renovation, construction, and industry work. Based in Cincinnati, Ohio, with distributors worldwide, Senco is one of the leading manufacturers of pneumatic and powered fastening systems, as well as the fasteners they drive. Their tools boast superior workmanship and are used in a variety of industries, including home construction and remodeling, cabinet and furniture assembly, manufactured housing and industrial packaging.

What’s in the Box
Senco PC1010 Compressor, regulator, pressure gauges, 1/4-inch universal coupler, and air filter.

Amazon.com
The perfect addition to your mechanics’ air tools is a impressive compressor. The Senco PC1010 compressor is designed to handle a wide variety projects. The 1/2-horsepower (1-peak-horsepower) oil-less aluminum cylinder and 1-gallon capacity tank system is portable enough to easily move from one project to another. Comfortable cushioned grips makes this ultra quiet, lightweight compressor a pleasure to move and use.

From the Manufacturer
The SENCO PC1010 Compressor is a 1-horsepower peak, 1-gallon, oil-less portable air compressor. This compressor is easy to carry and to use in a wide variety of applications.

Stanley 16-050 Sharpening System Description:

Complete system for accurate and precise sharpening of cutting edges. Kit contains: Honing guide, oilstone (8″ x 2″ aluminum oxide grit sharpening stone, double sided with fine and medium grade), and white oil (for use with oilstone, nonflammable, nontoxi

• Amazon Sales Rank: #6194 in Home Improvement
• Brand: Stanley
• Model: 16-050
• Number of items: 1
• Dimensions: 2.00 pounds

Features

• Sharpening kit designed for effective sharpening of chisels and plane irons
• Designed with all components necessary for achieving accurate, precise sharpening
• Compatible with chisel blades and plane irons from 1/4-to-2-3/4-inches
• Includes oil stone, honing guide, white oil, and user instructions
• Limited lifetime warranty

Customer Reviews:

Further decline in standards
Having bought a Stanley honing jig a couple of years ago for personal use, I was pleased with it enough to buy one for work as well. However, what a difference a couple of years make! While the basic design is exactly the same, where it is made is not. The one I had originally bought was made in England. The castings were tight, clean and smooth. This one was made in, well two guesses as to where and the first one doesn’t count. The castings a rougher and the angle gage wobbles so you never if you’re truely square or not. As for the stone, it’s too narrow. Any chisel over an inch and a half or plane iron greater than a number three can not be sharpened on this stone, which for most shops, makes it almost completely useless. Plus it soaks up too much oil and clogs too easily.
Now doen’t think I’m jumping on the “Stanley sucks” bandwagon. Most of my tools are modern Stanley’s and I’m more than pleased with their performance. But what I’m afraid of; is that pretty soon that won’t be the case. As all the major manufacturers sell their souls to jump on the “Chinatastic” bandwagon too line their own (and their share holders too) pockets, we, the average consumer are left with inferior prducts at only a slightly cheaper (if that) price.
Final thought; it’s ok for what it is, but it’s not what it used to be, and doesn’t bode well for what it will be, unless we do something to change it.

Don’t Do It!
I consider this a total waste of money for the very simple reason that it is imposible to clamp a chisel or plane blade squarely. There is no straight edge to register the edge of the blade on. Also, the wheels are remarkably cheap plastic. I am going to buy one of the standerd “vise” style guides.

Not worth it
Do not waste your money on this product. The sharpening stone is extremely warped, and spending the time to flatten the stone would take days. The gauge is terribly cheap, and it is very difficult to keep your iron or chisel square.
There are better gauges out there for similar cost.

Amazon.com Product Description
The Stanley Sharpening System provides all the necessary components for accurate and precise sharpening of chisel blades and plane irons. The kit includes: a honing guide; an 8-by-2-inch aluminum oxide grit sharpening stone, double-sided with fine and medium grade; and non-flammable, non-toxic white oil for use with the oilstone. It also includes instructions to achieve a precise, sharp edge that is square to the blade. This kit is compatible with all chisel blades and plane irons from 1/4 inch to 2-3/4 inches (4mm-60mm). It is covered by a limited lifetime warranty.

The Stanley Story
The Stanley Works, originally a bolt and door hardware manufacturing company located in New Britain, Connecticut; was founded in 1843 by Frederick T. Stanley. A few years later, in 1857, Frederick’s cousin, Henry Stanley, founded The Stanley Rule and Level Company. In 1920, The Rule and Level Company merged with The Stanley Works and would go on to become it’s famous Hand Tools Division. Over the years, The Stanley Works has produced some of the most innovative and useful tools ever made. Among these tools are the Bailey Plane, the Surform shaper, the PowerLock tape rule and most recently the FatMax line of products. Today, more than ever, Stanley continues to be an industry leader in tool innovation. In 2001, Stanley introduced more than 100 new products, bringing to 400 the number of new products introduced in the past four years. As a direct result of Stanley’s commitment to excellence, Stanley was awarded the Prestigious Golden Hammer Award, presented for New Product Innovation in both 2000 and 2001.

Lasko 4000 Air Stik Ultra-Slim Oscillating Fan Product: Lasko 4000 Air Stik Ultra-Slim Oscillating Fan Discount. List Price: $27.99 Amazon Price: $27.47 Click Here To See Amazon Sale Price Add to cart to see low price@ Availability: In Stock Usually ships in 24 Hours Free Shipping Available

Compare Prices on Lasko 4000 Air Stik Ultra-Slim Oscillating Fan

The Lasko 4305 Outdoor Living fan is perfect for outdoor living areas, especially patios, decks, porches and balconies. With three fan speeds and internal oscillation feature, it will keep you cool and comfortable on those hot summer days, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors. Not only will this fan keep you cool, but it will also enhance your outdoor living décor. Its stylish design and furniture look will blend seamlessly into your outdoor rooms, and its space saving tower design is ideal when space is at a premium.

• Amazon Sales Rank: #767 in Kitchen & Housewares
• Color: Black
• Brand: Lasko
• Model: 4000
• Number of items: 1
• Dimensions: 14.20″ h x 4.00″ w x 3.50″ l, 3.00 pounds

Features

• Ultra-slim tower fan with 2 quiet speed settings
• LED-illuminated electronic controls; oscillating function
• Takes up very little surface space–great for on a desk
• Patented fused safety plug; fully assembled; ETL listed
• Measures 4 by 3-1/4 by 14 inches; 1-year limited warranty

Perfect fan for a small office space
The Lasko 4000 Oscillating Ultra Slim Fan is perfect for circulating cool air in a small office space. The fan easy fits on a small computer desk, circulates air quietly, and has the benefit of a low and high speed. The slim, small size makes this fan unobtrusive. Very satisfied.

Quietest fan ever!
I was pleasantly surprised with this purchase. After trying to find a fan for my office that was quiet, yet still effective, I finally found the perfect match. I would recommend this for anyone looking for a fan to cool down a small space, such as an office or small bedroom.

Nice slim fan
I used this as a fan between my aquarium surface and the lights above where I needed the slim profile. Don’t need/can’t use the oscillating feature. The push-button on/off is nice. They are a little noisy when on high speed (2 speeds), but not too bad.

Gorilla Gripper 44010 Panel Carrier Description:

Maximum grip and lift leverage T6 aluminum gripper plates. Special rubber gripping pads. Cushioned comfort handle. Safe, easy way to grip, lift and carry drywall, plywood and cumbersome sheet goods. The Gorilla Gripper makes it simple and effortless to gr ip and pull individual drywall, plywood and other sheet goods from horizontal or vertical stacks. Secures sheet goods for enhanced control and makes those material seem much lighter and absolutely easier to lift. The heavier the material the stronger it g rips. No bending, torquing or straining your back. The Gorilla Gripper reduces stress on back, neck, shoulders, arms and fingers. No obstructed view as when lifting sheet goods over your head. Grip from the top, lift and carry.

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1096 in Home Improvement
• Brand: Gorilla Gripper
• Model: 44010
• Number of items: 1
• Dimensions: 3.00 pounds

Features

• Makes it easy for one person to lift and carry sheet goods
• Reduces strain on back, neck, shoulders & arms
• Promotes personal safety in multiple ways
• Increases carrying capability
• Ruggedly constructed lifetime tool

Customer Reviews:

Good product, but takes practice
I saw the Gorilla Gripper on TV and decided right then that I needed to have it. I waited a while hoping to find it in the stores, but never did. I finally bought it on Amazon and was so happy when it came in. I tried it out, ouch! I was sure glad I had my steel-toed shoes on. I droped the first sheet of drywall twice while carrying from the garage to the basement. I went back up to the garage to get the second sheet but this time played with the positioning, practiced lifting it smoothly, got comfortable with the new walking style, and I was good to go. I now carry plywood, tile backer board, and drywall from the utility trailer, into the garage, into the house, and into the basement all without ever having a problem. This tool is very useful and I love it!

Works OK
As I get older I’m literally “loosing my grip”. The Gorilla Gripper works as advertised (except the clothes in the ad aren’t required). I had a 700 square foot building to roof which included hauling approximately 30 sheets of CDX up a 14 foot ladder. My thought was to use the GG to do the job. I know some day I’ll need to use it (and it works just as the add shows), but it’s much faster to hoist the sheet so it’s held by one hand & balanced on the shoulder, go up the ladder on to the trusses and put the sheet in place. I found it awkward to the point of dangerous trying to make the transition from the ladder to the trusses with a sheet hanging by the GG.

If you have to move sheet-goods in a shop and your grip aint what it used to be, then the GG is probably your saving grace. I think it’s one of those tools that help folks that can no longer muscle the sheets around. But it’s only for carrying; it will lose its grip when the sheet isn’t very near vertical. So while it helps carry the sheet, it won’t help moving it to the bench or saw-horse; you’ll still need to muscle the sheet to the vertical position.

Good idea; works as advertised; hard to incorporate in to the workflow.

NO BRAINER purchase
i just discovered this tool the other day while trolling the woodworking forums, watched the video (BTW, the second video on the website is HYSTERICAL) and bought it online. i received the gripper within three days, went in the garage, clamped it on top of a sheet of MDF and started waltzing around with it as a smile crept over my face. anyone who has to deal with sheet goods (drywall, melamine, plywood, tile backerboard) on a hobbyist, DIY’er or professional basis should seriously consider this purchase as an insurance against: smashed fingers/toes and strained backs. i eagerly look forward to the next time i go to home depot and have to pick up and load 10 sheets of melamine by myself!

From the Manufacturer
The Gorilla Gripper is a unique construction tool that allows one person to lift and carry heavy sheet goods (such as plywood, drywall, particleboard, melamine, tempered glass and granite) from the top, with much less strain and greatly reduced risk of injury to the back, neck, shoulders, arms & hands! The gripper works by clamping onto the top of the material, creating a sturdy temporary handle for the person who is carrying them. It allows the user to lift and move them with a straight back, eliminating the requirement of bending over to get under the bottom, thus avoiding the torqued back and the aches and pains that are far too familiar to construction workers and do-it-yourselfers. It’s made of aircraft-grade aluminum, very rugged and virtually indestructible. It is continuously self-adjusting from 3/8-inch to 1-1/8-inch. Rubber gripping pads mounted on both plates protect the surfaces of the materials from being damaged or marred. There’s just nothing like the Gorilla Gripper…it works!

Advantus Panel Wall Wire Hooks, Silver, 25 Hooks per Pack 75370 Description:

Metal wire hangers for lightweight objects. Hang pictures, calendars or keys on fabric panel walls. Wire hangers also clip notes or memos between hanger and panel. Global Product Type: Partition & Panel Accessories; Panel Accessory Type: Hook; Width: N/A; Depth: N/A.

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1253 in Office Product
• Brand: Advantus
• Model: 75370
• Number of items: 1
• Dimensions: 3.50″ h x 2.50″ w x 1.00″ l, .7 pounds

Features

• Metal wire hangers for lightweight objects.
• Hang pictures, calendars or keys on fabric panel walls.
• Wire hangers also clip notes or memos between hanger and panel.
• Pack of 25 Hooks

Customer Reviews:

If you are a cube dweller looking to personalize your space, a must have!
These wall hooks are the best way to be able to turn your “cube space” into a personalized sanctuary. Because of their design, they are the strongest since they “leverage against themselves” rather than relying on the strength of the walls. In addition, I discovered that not all cubes are created equal — some pins (like longer t-pins) can not be used in all cubes because the inner wall construction is not dense enough to support it or keep it securly anchored.

Because of the design of these hanger, they do not require thick or dense walls and they are the perfect hanger for just about any type of cube to which you might be assigned.

Perfect sturdy hooks for calendars, etc
Advantus makes a lot of products that work nicely in cubicles with fabric covered partitions. These include those where the partitions are NOT a bulletin board style, but rather just fabric over sheet metal. They have downward angled pins to hold them up securely.

This particular item is a hook for hanging pictures or the like. It’s a bit different from AVT75303 Panel Wall Hooks, Plastic, Metal Insert Points, White, 5/Pack in that these are intended for use out of sight. The hook on these is also more pointy and easier to get into the slot on a picture frame or the hole in a calendar. I would trust these to hold a fair amount of weight–they’re quite study and made of heavy-gauge wire. You could easily hang a wall clock from one of these.

Great Cubie Assessory
I love artwork on my walls so when I moved into my cubicle at work, I had to find something that would hold a 10 pound picture and sure enough Panel Hall Wire Hooks did the job. When my office mates come to visit (of course work-related visits!) they say how much like home my space feels. Thanks to this product!

Dundas Jafine TDIDVKZW ProFlex Indoor Dryer Vent Kit Description:

Ideal for indoor venting of electric clothes dryers where outside venting is impractical. Easy DIY installation. Collects lint waste. Kit includes plastic lint trap bucket, 2 plastic clamps, and a 4″ x 5′ length of UL approved ProFlex transition duct. Ret

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1988 in Home Improvement
• Brand: Dundas Jafine
• Model: TDIDVKZW
• Dimensions: 2.00 pounds

Features

• Dundas Jafine
• TDIDVKZW
• Dryer Accessories

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic for dryer in apt
This is so clever and works great.
you put the water in and it traps all the lint
great product for apt dryer.

Pleasantly surprised
When I got the box I thought there was a mistake cause I envisioned the bucket to be much larger. I was worried about the space it would take. But it turns out to be quite small - about 5×6 inches. Construction seems OK it should hold up for quite a while. Opens and closes easily for cleaning. The only improvement to make is like another poster said put a stocking or netting over the vent holes to trap any stray lint.

good product
If you have to vent into a bucket this is the way to go. Just put a knee high stocking around it to keep lint from flying out

Swiss+Tech UKCSB-1 Utili-Key 6-in-1 Key Ring Tool Description:

Swiss+Tech Utili-Key 6-in-1 Key Ring Tool is a light weight self locking tool that securely attaches to your key ring. It features a flat screwdriver, bottle opener, phillips screwdriver, serrated and straight knife blades as well as a micro eyeglass screwdriver. It is compact and convenient to use.

• Amazon Sales Rank: #40 in Automotive
• Brand: Swiss Tech
• Model: UKCSB-1
• Released on: 2004-09-21
• Dimensions: 1.00″ h x 5.00″ w x 6.00″ l, 1.30 pounds

Features

• Securely attaches to key ring
• Bright polished finish
• Precision crafted
• Solid stainless steel
• Lightweight

Customer Reviews:

Always with me
The Utili-Key has to be one of the most convenient multi-tools out there. I don’t go anywhere without it, and it gets a lot of use in all kinds of circumstances.

It’s the size of a large car key. When it is locked on the keyring, it isn’t going anywhere unless and until I am ready to use it. The screwdriver heads are fully functional and sturdy, although there is a risk of getting cut on the knife blade if it is handled carelessly (not like I’d do that, but this isn’t a kid’s toy). The blade is sharp and stays that way very well.

If you like being prepared for anything that might happen, this is a must-have tool for you. Check out the rest of Swiss-Tech’s product line as well.

One warning: Do _not_ carry a Utili-Key in anything carried on a plane. Scanners do know what they are and how to find them. Stow it instead because it will be confiscated otherwise. I hate taking it off my keychain when I travel, but it must be done.

High quality unobtrusive utility gadget
When I first noticed the Utili-Key at my retailer, I thought the $10 price was a little high for something so small and simple, but the stainless steel finish seemed well done, and it looked like a high-quality tool so I bought it anyway. I have since found out that the tool also comes in a gold color (titanium nitride) at some retailers.

Now that I’ve had it for a while, it seems well worth the money. This product was made in China and unfortunately I have seen some low quality steel tools that were made there, thankfully this one is an exception. The tool opens and closes precisely and seems to have tight tolerances. The serration’s on the lower knife portion seem to have been carefully cut. It looks as though one side of the Utili-Key is slightly more polished than the other, probably for marketing reasons as the more jeweled side was facing up in the retail box. This is a minor point as the other side still looks just fine.

When I first bought the Utili-Key, it was not clear to me that it would open up a full 180 degrees. That would have been okay since the tool is completely functional when opened 90 degrees. There are no springs involved, and it appears to be made of out of exactly 3 pieces of steel. It clicks into either of the two open positions with a bit of pressure and stays in place fairly well, but it is not locked into position which means that it can still close up on your finger if not used carefully. The knife is very sharp and it could cause an accidental injury during the use of the philips part of the tool since the blade is opposite the philips head.

The tool is so small and unobtrusive that I cannot imagine why anyone would not want to have the easy convenience of it right on the old key-ring. The length of it is just slightly shorter than the ignition key for my vehichle. Even if you carry other types of multi-tools or a pocket knife, it would be worthwhile to have this in case you forget your other stuff.

I really enjoy discovering clever well made products and this one is a keeper.

A great, compact, easily transportable tool
I bought this as a gift for my boyfriend, and although he thought it was kinda hokey at first, he ended up loving it. It goes on your keychain like any other key, but snaps off easily by just opening it up (the blades.) The two screwdrivers heads work fine and are very hard and don’t dull or warp with repeated use. The blade is RAZOR sharp and has yet to dull. It is small, but can cut through so much. A great overall buy.

Emergency Fire Starter Description:

New emergency fire starter. This magnesium fire starter is easy to use: (1) Gently shave a small quantity of magnesium with metal striker into a small pile of grass, paper or leaves to start a campfire (2) Strike the magnesium rod with striker (3) The sparks will start the fire with the shaved magnesium

• Amazon Sales Rank: #47 in Home Improvement
• Brand: SE
• Dimensions: 3.00″ h x .25″ w x 5.50″ l,

Features

• Emergency Fire Starter
• Ultra lightweight: 0.6 ounces
• Size: 2 3/4″ long

Customer Reviews:

WORKS GREAT
This fire starter works great just follow the instructions! I tried it the other day and I started a fire the first time!!

Excellent value and works great!
I received this today, and it works great. I would suggest using the back (non-serrated) edge of the steel to shave the magnesium and the serrated edge for striking the flint. The magnesium block and flint both have some kind of coating, so the first time you use it it’ll take a few extra tries. I’ve seen these selling for double or triple the price and people were happy to pay it, so this is an excellent deal!

Great fire starter!
I recently bought this and received it in the mail in about two days.
I opened the package and the instructions were very clear on how to use it. Great product it works its not expensive and very helpful.