Vessel 220P2200 Ball Grip Screwdriver price comparison

Anyone working on Japanese electronics can attest to the importance of a Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) Phillips screwdriver. If you need one with a long shaft -- useful for printer/copier repair or auto work -- check out the Vessel 220P2200 Ball Grip Screwdriver. Its 7.9" steel shaft, magnetic tip, and ergonomic ball grip make it a great choice for any technician's toolbox.

Below are some current online prices for this Vessel #2 Phillips ball grip screwdriver.

• $8.00  -----  Amazon (their lowest price in 30 days)
• $8.90  -----  Palmac
• $9.89  -----  JDV Products (VesselTools.com)
• $9.99  -----  Tractor Supply Company
• $10.85  -----  Zoro
• $13.79  -----  Crawford Tool
• $14.92  -----  Walmart
• $14.99  -----  Haus of Tools

Disclaimer: I may earn a commission on Amazon sales made from links in this post.

Leatherman Sidekick multi tool online price comparison

The Leatherman Sidekick is a versatile, mostly well-made multifunction tool.  (Full review here.)  It makes a good everyday carry (EDC) tool, especially for someone who may not already have an EDC tool they like.

Below are some current online prices for the Leatherman Sidekick.  As you can tell, there's not a lot of price differentiation among retailers right now.  That may change as the holidays approach.

- $49.95  ..........  Amazon
- $49.95  ..........  Galls
- $49.95  ..........  Home Depot
- $49.95  ..........  KnifeCenter
- $49.95  ..........  Leatherman
- $49.95  ..........  REI
- $49.95  ..........  Swiss Knife Shop
- $49.95  ..........  Walmart
- $49.99  ..........  Dick's Sporting Goods
- $54.99  ..........  Cabela's

There are multiple sellers offering a new Sidekick on eBay as well.  $38.00 seems to be a common price point today, but you may be able to find better offers.

Disclaimer: I may earn a commission on Amazon sales made from links in this post.

Multi tool deals on Amazon

The following multi tools are currently selling for well below list price on Amazon:

- Nite Ize Doohickey, $3.98

This key-sized multi tool clips onto your keychain for several everyday uses.  It includes a flathead driver, different sized wrenches, bottle opener, box cutter, and -- of course -- bottle opener.  List price: $4.99.

- Gerber Dime, $15.99

Gerber makes several different multi tools in the same size and price range as the Dime.  One factor that makes the Dime stick out is its protruding bottle opener.  The Dime comes in multiple colors, and Amazon sells different-colored Dimes for different prices.  If you're not picky about color, you can get a Dime on Amazon for as low as $10.49.  List price: $21.00.

- SOG PowerLock EOD, $57.99

This Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) tool has many military and civilian uses.  The multi tool has flathead and Phillips drivers, a partially-serrated knife, scissors, wire cutter and crimper, double tooth wood saw, and more.  It comes with a nylon sheath.  List price: $124.25.


All of these tools qualify for Amazon's free shipping (if you spend at least $25).

Stanley 6-Inch MaxSteel Adjustable Wrench: online price comparison

When it comes to adjustable wrenches, the Stanley 90-947 6" MaxSteel adjustable wrench is a decent, middle-of-the-road model at an affordable price.  It has a comfortable grip, SAE and metric markings, and a max jaw width of just under an inch.  It can usually be found for under $7.00.

Below are some current online prices for this wrench.

• $6.19  .....  Amazon
• $6.19  .....  Jet
• $6.19  .....  Target
• $6.19  .....  Walmart
• $6.20  .....  Home Depot
• $10.02  .....  Tool Nut
• $10.55  .....  Toolup.com
• $10.99  .....  Kmart

Vessel 220 JIS Ball-Grip Screwdriver: price comparison

Anyone working on Japanese electronics could probably use a JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard) Phillips screwdriver.  If you need one with a long shaft -- useful for copier repair or auto work -- the Vessel 220 Ball-Grip Screwdriver is a good one, with a long steel shaft, magnetic tip, and a knurled ball grip.

Below are some current online prices for this #2 Phillips Vessel driver.

• $8.27  -----  Crawford Tool
• $9.49  -----  Amazon
• $11.99  -----  Vessel Tools

Disclaimer: I may earn a commission on Amazon sales made from links in this post.

SOG tool reviews

Multi Tools:
- SOG Micro ToolClip

Tool review: SOG Micro ToolClip

Key Features:
 +   Good tension on pliers
 +   Fits well in palm
 -   Tool tends to pop open in your pocket
 -   Awkward positioning of Phillips driver

I've tested many small multi tools. Most of them have been underwhelming. But right off the bat, the SOG Micro ToolClip (model #TC1001-CP) began to impress.

Even before you try it out, the Micro ToolClip looks cool.  It's a compact pair of thick-jawed pliers, a combination of black plastic and gray metal that fits very comfortably into your palm.

The tool is well-made.  The pliers are strong, with good tension.  The Phillips driver is finely machined; much more precisely than a typical multi tool Phillips driver.  The knife is sharp, both on the blade and the tip.  The Micro ToolClip measures 3.9" closed, and weighs a solid 3.3 ounces.

In addition to the knife and pliers (which are not needle-nosed, despite what the SOG website says) this tool includes both a small and large slotted driver, a double-sided file, and a bottle opener.  It has a removable belt clip and removable key chain loop.  The base of the pliers jaw can be used as wire cutters or strippers.

The SOG website also claims that the knife and other tools lock.  The tools don't actually lock -- there's no unlocking mechanism -- but the internal tension does hold them in place very well while they are in use.

Two issues keep this tool from being a good everyday carry tool.  Because of its design, the Phillips driver (which doubles as one of the pliers handles) can pop out fairly easily when you keep the tool in your pocket.  Since the driver has a good point on it, you may find yourself with small holes in your pocket (or leg).  You can remedy this problem by stuffing a piece of foam or rubber above the pliers lock, to prevent the tool from opening without a significant amount of pressure on the lock.

The second issue is the positioning of the Phillips driver.  The idea of doubling one pliers handle as a screwdriver is a creative way to save space, but it makes the Phillips driver close to useless for turning screws.  There's no good way to grip the tool to use it effectively as a Phillips driver.  This tool resembles Thorsen's multi pliers in appearance, but Thorsen avoided the Phillips issue by using a pop-out driver, rather than attaching it to the pliers handle.  Including a cross driver instead of one of the two slotted drivers would also have been preferable, and more functional.

The SOG Micro ToolClip is a decent pocket tool, once you fix the self-unlocking issue.  SOG lists the Micro ToolClip for $27.00, which is extremely over-priced.  Amazon sells it for $19.94 -- also far too much money, but they do sell it as part of a set with a SOG pocket knife for $14.99.

Holiday gift guide: Tool and tool storage deals

Tools make a great gift for many different types of people: mechanics, weekend DIYers, new homeowners, hobbyists, etc.  With the holidays fast approaching, online retailers are throwing up new deals every day.  Below are some current online deals that can net you a good tool (or tool storage) present for a great price.

- Milwaukee 48-32-4502 Magnetic Bit Holder (Home Depot, $3.97)
Magnetic bit holders tend to be generic and unremarkable; they either work or they don't.  This Milwaukee bit holder stands out, however.  It has a slightly smaller footprint than many other bit holders (2.36" rather than 2.5") and the magnet is very strong.  For a more detailed description, see my full review of this bit holder.

- Cat Premium Plastic Portable Tool Box with Lid Organization and Removable Tote (Amazon, $25.71)

This tough plastic toolbox measures 9.25" x 20" x 9" and includes everything you'd expect to find: removable plastic tote, removable small parts organizers in the lid, metal padlock eyes, and reinforced side walls.  There's even a ruler imprinted onto the lid.  This tool box gets a 4.6 out of 5 star rating on Amazon.

For a less expensive option, check out the Stanley 016011R Series 2000 16-Inch Tool Box.  It's smaller (7.8" x 16" x 7") and not quite as tough, but it currently sells for $18.76 and it may drop lower.  (It has been as low as $10.35 recently.)

- Ryobi 130-Piece Drill and Drive Bit Set (Home Depot, $9.88)

Probably too large for a stocking stuffer, this 130-piece bit set would make a great gift for anyone running low on drill or driver bits.  The set includes Phillips, slotted, Torx, square, and hex bits.  It also comes with a magnetic bit holder and a durable plastic case.

- Anvil 5-Piece Pliers Set (Home Depot, $4.88)

Anvil seems to be one of Home Depot's newer brands.  The pliers in this set probably won't be the highest quality pliers ever seen, but at less than $1 per pair, it's hard to beat that price.  This set would make a good gift for someone who needs some extra pliers to stow in the car or in a kitchen drawer for emergencies.

Leatherman Brewzer for $7.18

If you've been considering buying a Leatherman Brewzer keychain multi tool, but don't want to pay the $9 or $10 it usually costs on Amazon, you can grab one -- brand new -- on eBay right now for $7.18 (with free shipping).

There are only three Brewzers available according to the seller, so if you want one, buy it now.

If you're not sure about the Brewzer, read a full review of it before buying, or see how it stacks up against the Gerber Shard.

First impressions: SOG Micro ToolClip and MacV Tool

I got my first two SOG tools in the mail: the SOG Micro ToolClip and the SOG MacV Tool.  They came as a set -- the City Survival Kit (model #) for $14.99 on Amazon (up to $17.99 as of today).

Already, the SOG Micro ToolClip is one of the more impressive multi tools I've used.  It's small -- easily a pocket tool -- but it's strong.  The tool is well-designed.  I look forward to testing it out.

The MacV seems kind of cool so far -- a decent keychain tool.  Its Phillips driver is next to worthless, but otherwise it has a lot of useful functions.

I'll post a full review once I've tested them both out.  As of right now, I'd say the City Survival Kit for about $15 is a decent deal.

Tool Review: Gerber Vise

Key Features:
 +   Textured, open frame
 +   Good cross driver
 -   Bad bottle opener


Gerber makes many different multi tools, including a wide range of small, pocket multi tools.  The Gerber Vise (model #31-000021) falls into this category, and is one of the better multi tools I've used -- though it's not without its faults.

The Vise is not very heavy for a multi tool (only 2 ounces) and sits much more comfortably in your pocket than Gerber's Mini Suspension-P.  It has a good range of tools built in: spring-loaded pliers, cross and slotted drivers, straight-edge and serrated knives, bottle opener, and files.

The pliers are decent for occasional or light-weight work, but the handles start to give under a lot of pressure, and the right-angle corners dig into your palm and fingers.  The pliers have good spring tension but are clunky to open and close.

The cross driver on the Vise works very well -- better than any other multi tool cross driver I've seen, and better than some multi tools with full Phillips drivers.  The slotted drivers are average to above-average.

The straight-edge knife and serrated knife are both good.  They compare well to knives on other multi tools.  Neither locks in place but that's typical for the price range that the Vise falls in.

All of the external tools are easy to access.  The Vise has a very open frame that allows you to see which tools sit where, and they all flip out fairly smoothly from the nail nicks.  The Vise's textured frame makes it easy to hold and use.

The biggest drawback of this tool is the bottle opener.  It is dual-pronged, which is a smart idea and should give a better grip on the bottle cap, but on this tool there is hardly any lip on either prong, so the bottle opener slides right off the cap.  The bottle opener looks impressive but fails to function.

Overall, the Vise is above average as a pocket multi tool, and better than many tools in the low-end price range.  It's on a comparable level as the Leatherman Squirt -- a tool that often costs more than twice as much.  The Vise is a better everyday tool than the Mini Suspension-P, mainly because the cross driver comes out much easier and is machined more precisely.

Gerber lists the Vise at $20.00 online.  Amazon previously sold it for $14.95, but has it right now for $9.90.  Under $10 is a fair price for this pocket tool.

Companies that provide free screw / nail / fastener samples

Need to place a large order of screws, nails, or other hardware?  Contact any of the companies below to get a free sample of the quality they offer before you buy.

- All Points Fasteners

After approval of your quote, they'll send you a sample of their screws or other fasteners.

- Savetix

Savetix will supply samples of their captive screws designed specifically for whatever application you require them.

- Global Sources

Request a sample of their iron and concrete nails.  They offer samples of some other products as well.

Multi tool price drops on Amazon

Here are some multi tools that have dropped in price on Amazon recently:

Gerber Suspension:  About the same size as a Leatherman Sidekick or Wingman, this multi tool -- currently an "Amazon's Choice" product -- usually goes for around $28 to $30 on Amazon.  Right now, it's listed for $22.99.

Gerber Curve:  The Curve is a pocket knife that can clip onto your belt or keychain, with locking screwdrivers.  It's typically listed for about $10, but right now Amazon has it at $7.19.

LORJE Tactical Pen:  Calling this pen a multi tool might seem like a stretch, but it can also be used for self-defense or breaking glass.  It previously sold for $5.88 but is now down to $3.26 -- much cheaper than some other tactical pens.

Thorsen puck wrench for $1.42

Know someone who'd like a puck wrench as a stocking stuffer?  Pep Boys sells the Thorsen puck wrench (model #22-333) for just $1.90, but by using coupon code MMJ25 you can get it for even less: $1.42 (through July 3rd).

This puck wrench is kind of neat as an "extra" wrench, and might make a good cheap gift for anyone who likes tools.  Read a full review of the Thorsen puck wrench here.

DeWalt sticker on eBay

You can often find inexpensive stickers on eBay.  Right now, there's an 8" x 2.5" DeWalt sticker for $1.48 (free shipping).  If you want several, you can get a free one by buying two.

Stanley pocket screwdriver: $2.99

The Stanley 66-344 pocket screwdriver is one of the best (if not the best) pocket screwdrivers on the market.  It features magnetic bits, a sturdy design, and windowed caps.  Amazon, Sears, and HD Supply Solutions are listing it right now for $2.99.

Stores like Walmart and Home Depot often sell cheap pocket screwdrivers for $2 or $3, but this Stanley driver is a higher-quality driver that will last longer and perform better.

For comparison, here are some other current online prices for the same driver that the three sites listed above have for $2.99:

- $4.59:     Quill.com
- $6.79:     Staples.com
- $11.99:     Houzz.com

Read a full review of this Stanley driver here.

Tool review: Leatherman Squirt PS4

Key Features:
 +   Sharp, sturdy knife
 +   Pliers are strong for their size
 -   Outside frame is too smooth


The Leatherman Squirt is a small multi tool that can easily fit inside a grown man's (or woman's) palm.  It doesn't weigh much (only two ounces) and you probably won't notice it in your pocket.  But it is a good tool to carry, and has several useful functions.

The Squirt comes in several different varieties.  This review focuses on the Squirt PS4, which folds out into a small pair of pliers, but other varieties include the ES4 (which replaces the pliers with a wire cutter/stripper/crimper) and the S4 (scissors instead of pliers, and also include a pair of tweezers).  There is also the P4 and E4, which are similar to the PS4 and ES4 respectively, but without scissors.  (The E4 includes tweezers as well.)

The PS4 model is a very useful multi tool.  Its pliers are small, but have good spring action and are surprisingly sturdy.  The jaws are lined up almost perfectly and they come together at the tips.  The pliers don't open smoothly, but they aren't hard to get to.

This tool also includes a small knife, 1.6 inches long.  The tip is very sharp and impressively strong.  It works well for popping e-clips -- much better than the knife found on a Sidekick.  The edge is sharp enough, and there is a nail groove for easy access.

Another feature of the PS4 is the pair of scissors.  Good for cutting plain paper, but not great at thicker material.  The scissors can be useful for cutting small wires and opening toys and wrapped packages.  The scissors fold back up easily when you're done with them.

The Squirt PS4 has a few other tools, as well.  It has a small slotted screwdriver and what serves as a small Phillips driver -- both of which are adequate for light use.  There's also a double-sided file.

The biggest drawback to the PS4 (unless you need a specific tool that it doesn't include) is that the frame of the tool (which is also the pliers handles) is too smooth.  In a hurry, the tool can evade your grip.  A textured frame -- either grooved or raised -- would be helpful.  I added grip tape to my Squirt's handles, which eliminated that issue.  If the biggest complaint you have about a tool is that its outside is too smooth, then it's probably a pretty good tool.

I've used many small multi tools, both for work and for personal use.  Hands down, the Leatherman Squirt PS4 is the best one I've tried (at least in the "small" category).  I would recommend it for anyone looking for a multi tool that won't weigh them down but doesn't lack in functionality.

Leatherman currently sells the Squirt PS4 for $36.85, and Amazon lists it for $35.14.  Both of these prices are a bit high, as you can often find a Wingman or Sidekick for around $30.  (If you're looking for one of those larger tools, check Home Depot for good prices.)  If you can find the Squirt PS4 for $20 or $25, that's a good deal.  It comes in black, blue, and red.

Leatherman Skeletool on sale at Home Depot

The Leatherman Skeletool is not typically in the lower-end price range for multi tools, but right now you can pick one up at Home Depot for under $30.  HomeDepot.com has it listed for $29.88.  As a comparison, here are some other current prices for the Skeletool:

- $41.14    Amazon.com
- $49.58    Walmart.com
- $54.95    KnifeCenter.com
- $69.85    Leatherman.com

3 Insulated Screwdrivers -- For Just $7.00

If you're in need of some insulated screwdrivers -- or looking for them as a gift -- Home Depot has a set of three insulated Husky drivers (one slotted tip, one Phillips tip, one square tip) for $7.00.  You probably won't find three insulated drivers for less than that -- and if you do, they may not be reliable.

These drivers are rated for up to 1000 VAC, and they have grooves cut into them for wire stripping or bending.  Amazon lists the same set of drivers for over three times as much money ($21.95).

Stocking Stuffer Tool Deals

With the holidays just about upon us, you may be looking for small stocking stuffer gifts for someone you love (or just like).  If that person likes tools, here are some great stocking stuffer gifts that are on sale right now.

- Gerber Shard

The Gerber Shard is a handy little keychain tool.  Made of just one piece of sturdy metal (no moving parts) it includes cross and slotted screwdrivers, a bottle opener, a pry bar, and a box cutter.  It typically sells for about $6 or $7, but right now both Amazon and Walmart list it for $4.33.  Some Walmart stores are selling a combo pack of the Shard plus a Gerber Mini Paraframe pocket knife for about $10, but this deal doesn't seem to be available online (at least not yet).

- Stanley Stubby Ratcheting Multibit Screwdriver

This small Stanley screwdriver fits in the palm of our hand but is full of functionality.  It's a good ratcheting screwdriver, and it's magnetic, which is a rare combination for under $20.  It also comes with six common bits, which can be stored in the driver's handle.  Amazon and Target both have it for $4.79 -- a good deal.

- Stanley 4-in-1 Pocket Screwdriver

Another Stanley driver, this one is designed to be carried in your pocket.  There are several similar models of pocket screwdrivers, but none of them compare to this one in terms of quality.  This pocket driver is well-made with magnetic metal bits, and anyone who reaches for a screwdriver in a pinch will appreciate having this pen-sized driver in their pocket.  Often sold for $6 or $7, it's listed at just $2.99 right now on Amazon and $3.00 at Walmart.

- Pittsburgh Pro 3-Piece Thumbwheel Ratchet Set

If you still haven't found a good stocking stuffer, how about a set of three thumbwheel ratchets?  Thumbwheel ratchets are great for working in tight spaces, and this Pittsburgh Pro set can't be beat price-wise.  Each ratchet fits a different size socket: 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2".  Harbor Freight sells this set for $6.99 -- cheaper than most thumbwheel ratchets cost by themselves.

For more details on any of the tools listed above, click on the link below to read a full review:

- Gerber Shard
- Stanley Stubby Ratcheting Multibit Screwdriver
- Stanley 4-in-1 Pocket Screwdriver
- Pittsburgh Pro 3-Piece Thumbwheel Ratchet Set