First Impressions of Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool
The Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool promises to be a compact and versatile solution for maintaining your blades and tackling minor repairs in the field. Marketed towards outdoorsmen and everyday users alike, this little gadget attempts to pack essential functions into a pocket-sized package. My initial curiosity stemmed from a need for a compact, all-in-one sharpening solution for my hunting knives and EDC blades, something that wouldn’t take up too much space in my pack.
My search for a reliable, portable sharpener led me to this Smith & Wesson offering. I’ve relied on Smith & Wesson knives in the past and hoped their multi-tool sharpener would carry the same quality. The product description boasted a combination of sharpening options along with a Torx driver, a compelling feature for field maintenance.
Upon unboxing, the Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool felt surprisingly lightweight. The black handle felt reasonably sturdy. The various components seemed securely attached. I was immediately curious about the effectiveness of the retractable tapered diamond honing stone. Compared to my larger Lansky sharpening system or even a dedicated sharpening steel, the Smith & Wesson felt more geared towards quick touch-ups than full-scale sharpening sessions.
Other similar products I considered were the Gerber Shard and Leatherman PS4. I picked the Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool for its focus on sharpening functionality paired with the Torx driver. The Smith & Wesson seemed to offer a more complete solution for my specific needs. My first impression was a mix of cautious optimism and intrigue, hoping it would live up to its promises during real-world use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool to the Test
First Use Experience
I primarily tested the Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool during a week-long camping and fishing trip in the Appalachian Mountains. It endured daily carry. I subjected it to various tasks, including sharpening my fishing knife, touching up my folding knife after preparing meals, and tightening loose screws on my camp stove. The weather conditions ranged from dry and sunny to humid and rainy.
The sharpener proved easy to use, even with minimal experience. I quickly became accustomed to the correct angles for sharpening. The carbide sharpener got my dullest blade back to functional sharpness surprisingly fast. The ceramic rods provided a nice finishing touch. I did find the tapered diamond honing stone a bit awkward to use initially due to its small size.
However, I was able to successfully touch up serrated edges. One minor issue I encountered was some difficulty gripping the tool securely with wet hands. The smooth handle became slippery.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool has held up reasonably well. There are some minor scratches on the handle. The sharpening surfaces still seem effective. I have found the Torx driver to be especially useful for occasional adjustments on my firearms.
The tool has required minimal maintenance, mostly just wiping it down with a cloth after use. I’ve also applied a small amount of oil to the moving parts to prevent rust. Compared to my experience with other multi-tools that quickly develop loose joints, the Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool has maintained its structural integrity. While it might not be as robust as a dedicated sharpening system, it has proven to be a reliable and convenient tool for maintaining my blades in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool
Specifications
The Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool is built for portability. It features an overall length of 3.88 inches, making it easy to carry in a pocket or on a keychain. The handle is constructed from black-colored plastic, contributing to its lightweight design. The tool includes both ceramic and carbide sharpeners for different levels of sharpening.
A retractable tapered diamond honing stone is included for serrated blades and fine work. A T8 Torx driver adds utility for equipment maintenance. A keyring allows for convenient attachment to keys or gear.
These specifications make the Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool ideal for someone prioritizing portability and versatility in a sharpening tool. The inclusion of different sharpening surfaces allows the user to address various blade conditions. The Torx driver expands its functionality beyond just sharpening.
Performance & Functionality
The Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool performs adequately as a field sharpening tool. The carbide sharpeners quickly restore a basic edge to dull blades, making them usable again. The ceramic rods refine the edge, improving its sharpness and creating a smoother finish. The tapered diamond honing stone is useful for maintaining serrations.
However, its small size and basic design limit its ability to produce razor-sharp edges. It’s more suited for touch-ups and maintenance than for completely re-profiling a blade. The T8 Torx driver functions well for tightening screws. Its short length limits leverage. The tool exceeded my expectations for portability. It did not meet my expectations for achieving a truly refined edge.
Design & Ergonomics
The Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool features a simple, functional design. The black plastic handle is lightweight and easy to grip, though not particularly ergonomic. The sharpening surfaces are well-placed and easy to access. The retractable diamond honing stone is a clever design feature.
However, the tool could benefit from a more textured handle to improve grip in wet conditions. There is virtually no learning curve involved in using the tool.
Durability & Maintenance
The Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool appears to be reasonably durable for its size and price point. The sharpening surfaces are holding up well with regular use. The plastic handle seems resistant to cracking. However, the retractable diamond honing stone may be vulnerable to damage if not handled carefully.
Maintenance is simple. Just wiping it clean after use is sufficient. Applying a small amount of oil to the moving parts will prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool comes with a keyring for attachment to keys or gear. No additional accessories are included. There are no customization options available for this product. It’s designed as a standalone tool with a specific set of functions.
Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool
Pros
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry in a pocket or on a keychain, making it ideal for outdoor adventures and everyday use.
- Versatile Sharpening Options: Includes carbide, ceramic, and diamond sharpening surfaces for various blade types and conditions.
- Integrated T8 Torx Driver: Provides added functionality for equipment maintenance and repair in the field.
- Simple and Easy to Use: Requires minimal experience or skill, making it accessible to beginners.
- Affordable Price: Offers good value for its functionality and portability.
Cons
- Smooth handle lacks grip, especially when wet.
- Limited sharpening capability compared to dedicated sharpening systems.
Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool?
The Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool is perfect for campers, hikers, backpackers, fishermen, and anyone who needs a compact and versatile sharpening solution for their knives and tools. It’s also a good option for everyday carry (EDC) for quick touch-ups on blades. It is also suitable for the tactical gear users.
Those who require a razor-sharp edge or need to re-profile heavily damaged blades should skip this product. They should opt for a more comprehensive sharpening system. A must-have accessory for this tool would be a small lanyard or textured grip to improve handling in wet conditions.
Conclusion on Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool
The Smith & Wesson Sharpener/Multi Tool is a decent little tool. It’s a worthwhile addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s gear. It offers a convenient and affordable way to maintain blades in the field. Its compact size and versatile functionality make it a practical choice for everyday carry.
The price is justified. It delivers on its promise of portability and basic sharpening capabilities. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a simple and reliable sharpening solution for their knives and tools. Get yours today and keep your blades sharp on the go!