PowerLock - Brief Article

Guns Magazine, Nov, 1999 by Roy Huntington

Just how many pocket tools do you need? I don't know. How many can you have? I don't think you can have too many pocket tools. You need one for each glove box in each car, one for the tool box, one for the hunting pack, one for the range bag, one in your desk at work, one in -- well, you get my drift. These little buggers are very handy to have around.

One of the best of the breed is manufactured by SOG. Called the "PowerLock," it's different mostly due to the fact that it features a proprietary gear system that increases torque. The owner's manual states: "Compound Leverage Factoid: SOG's patented compound leverage generates more plier gripping, wire cutting and wire crimping power than all other designs."

I crimped, cut, gripped and generally worked the snot out of these guys and I could feel the difference. As you close the jaws you feel that you have more leverage than you would on a regular pair of pliers. SOG's manual says you get about twice the advantage and I believe it.

Little handle covers on both handles keep the tool pockets protected and keeps your delicate skin safe from pinches when you use the tool. It's a good idea and makes the tool much more user-friendly than many other brands.

When you open the tool handles they lock into position, keeping your fingers safe. It's still a good idea to use common sense, though, and don't tempt fate. He's a nasty fellow and is just waiting to bite.

From common screw driver heads to other handy tools, the SOG PowerLock is a real tool that can handle a wide cross-section of chores. I like it.