Stanley has come out with a new utility knife multi-tool that features a retractable knife blade, pivoting screwdriver bit holder, and pivoting jab saw. The pivoting tools can be locked in at 90° or 180° for safety and versatility.
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First Impression
While the new Stanley 3-in-1 utility knife looks a little bulkier than standard retractable knives, the addition of a locking bit holder and jab saw definitely make it more versatile.
The only thing that could make this utility knife any more flexible is if Stanley came out with a version that accepted standard T-shank jigsaw blades.
With the additional tools located on both sides of the tool, there’s no place for built-in spare blade storage.
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Allen
Who’s going to be first in cutting themselves while trying to use the screwdriver ? Or is there some sort of interlock that prevents deployment of the tools with the blade out ?
I could see running that blade up a wrist when slipping on a screw. Maybe I’m the only clumsy/unlucky one.
Stuart
I don’t believe there’s a safety interlock.
Jerry
If the jab saw was user replaceable, I think I’d get one.
mike foley
Hard to believe a tool like this came out! Very strange.
skfarmer
i see lawsuit from the first guy who cuts himself because he didn’t retract the blade before using the saw or screwdriver. maybe i should pick one up on the way to may attorneys office……………..i’m kidding, but it seems like an accident waiting to happen.
Stan
I can see this now, a person who knows that this tool doesn’t have a safety interlock buys this, injures themselves and sues Black and Decker Stanley and wins a settlement. Given I am sure this tool is made offshore, I doubt safety was the concern of the sub contractor who made this.
I wonder when Stanley will recall this product, as I know sooner or later, someone is going to injure themselves. I hope not, but in USA, lawsuits occur daily.
Jerry
I can see it happening, everyone who got one will get the letter saying it is unsafe to use, and if you own one, to ‘stop using it immediately’ until you receive farther instructions.
I’m thinking a redesign of the idea would be better. How about making the utility knife fold, instead of retract? I personally think the utility knife/jab saw combo would be the most useful, as they are often used together when doing drywall.
Jerry
Just checked, and it is already listed as unavailable on Amazon.
Stan
Well that was quick. Either Amazon is just currently out or someone actually injured themselves and sued Black and Dekcer Stanley or so.
Allen
But then I look at my leatherman and I can use the tools with the blade out, I wonder what makes this seem so much more unsafe ?
Javier
I like it, I think it’s a great idea. Would be perfect for doing light duty dry wall work. I would use this for home theater installations. Use the jab saw to cut out a hole for Power outlets, in wall speakers, and cable management inlets. Use the utility blade to open the box packages and then use the screw driver to install the electrical boxes and the wall plates to finish the job.
Also the jab saw seems to be a good size. I don’t like how traditional jab saws are too long. Always worry about cutting through the other wall or accidentally cutting something in wall like a wire.
Stuart
It’s a new product and was out of stock when the post was published.
Honestly, a bit of warning text should be enough to prevent people from trying to use the secondary tools while the utility knife blade is deployed.
I don’t see how a safety interlock is needed for something like this.
This knife looks perfectly safe, if used as intended and with a reasonable level of common sense and caution.
Javier
The locking feature is probably more for improved performance. Who would want the jab saw or screwdriver to be wobbling around when in use.
As safety is concerned, if someone thinks this seemingly ordinary tool is unsafe then they shouldn’t be using tools. By their logic multitools and swiss army knives should be recalled.
Allen
“with a reasonable level of common sense and caution.”
Ah, there’s the rub.
But I guess my first impression might be wrong. Good to see some new ideas anyway.
Like the above fellow said, some situations it may be just the thing.
mnoswad1
useless.
I’d rather carry three separate tools that will actually do the job 4 times faster than this gimmick.
The only people that will buy this are gadget-heads and chicks buying this for husbands for christmas.
A Capo
Reminds me of Stanley’s TwinTec ratcheting adjustable socket wrench, what a joke of a tool that is. This 3 in 1 tool looks like it was made by the same designer who came up with the TwinTec…. 🙁
Karl
You guys that have issues with this should stay behind a desk and not use a pencil sharpener. This is a great tool. I have no problem using it. Thank you people that think outside the box! Keep up the great work!
Dana
Anyone know how to reload a new blade in this thing? I can’t figure it out! And yes, I’m the dummy who purchased this very cheap at a Ross store thinking it may come in handy if I store it in my car to replace 3 tools. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Stuart
It looks like you should be able press down the black button near the front of the tool and very carefully pull the worn blade out. A new blade is installed with the steps reversed.
Don’t worry, it’s not just you!
Dana
Stuart – THANK YOU! I did try this but couldn’t seem to make it work properly. Much appreciated! ??
Stuart
You’re welcome! Sometimes you need to push in with more force than you’d think, or with a different part of your finger.