I have been a long-time fan of SOG’s multi-tools. My SOG Paratool has been with me on nearly every outdoor adventure for more than 17 years. They were even frozen in a block of ocean water in the hull of my sea kayak for a full Alaskan winter and uncovered in the spring no worse for it. They are however, a little difficult to deploy which is why their new Switchplier 2.0 caught my attention.
As the name would imply, the Switchplier 2.0 can produce its pliers with a mere press of a button. I’ve tried other tools that require what they say is an effortless, “flick,” to access the pliers, but I’ve never found it to work worth a darn. The Switchplier on the other and deploys every time with an effortless and consistent action.
Full featured with 12 individual tools, the Swithplier has nearly every common tool the average user will ever need. The pliers even feel comfortable in hand and have a highly dexterous level of control in tight spaces. The spring loaded jaws facilitate comfortable one-handed operation and the grip under pressure is comfortable with no unfinished edges to overcome.
Accessing the inner tools requires the pliers to be deployed, but that isn’t a negative considering how easy that is to do. The main blade is made of 420 steel and when locked in place gives a secure feel in hand.
Made with high quality materials to precise standards, this tool feels like it should cost far more than the $65 asking price. With a compact overall size, it’s a tool I will have with me on more trips to come, although it has a way to go to displace my much loved SOG Paratool.
