DaveK
24/09/09
24/09/09
Kershaw A100
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The Kershaw A100 is one of the most fascinating tools in my collection and makes a refreshing change from the 'PST-like' format that many manufacturers have copied. The A100 brought several new innovations and build quality is excellent, although there's a case to argue that over-engineering may have brought production to a premature end! (more) |
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When introduced in 1997 the A100 was the first tool to offer a OHO (one handed opening), liner locking knife blade together with adjustable, locking pliers. As with traditional 'mole' grips, the plier jaws are adjusted using a knurled screw at the end on the handles and there's even a release lever to assist in opening the pliers when locked onto something tightly. I have no other tool in my collection that functions as well as the A100 in this area.
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| The A100 however suffers from a couple of problems that probably eventually lead to it's lack of popularity as a viable tool and eventual decline, namely: |
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Regardless of it's practicality though, the A100 is truly unique in modern multitools, and a very interesting collection piece. More facts and figures about the A100 can be found in the multitool.org multitool encyclopaedia. |
5 comments
The A100 sure is a nice looking tool and I am sure would be nice to have in a toolbox :)
Completely agree Poncho. A really nice piece of kit, but becoming very difficult to find nowadays!
Hi DaveK,
Being a Leatherman aficionado, I was unfamiliar with the multi-tool given to me a couple days ago by my dad (he had found it some time ago). A little research at multitool.com and here at your wonderful site reveal it to be a Kershaw A100. I agree with you in that it is very intricate in design and of very high build quality, but too large for an EDC. Mine has a very rusty sawblade (apparently common with this tool) that needs replacing, and some various other rust that should clean up pretty well. It doesn't look like the Kershaw/Kai company supplies parts for their discontinued models, nor do I see any current listings on ebay for this tool/parts/accessories. Anyway, I am happy to have this tool and look forward to bringing her back to life. Thanks for your very informative website. GregK
Being a Leatherman aficionado, I was unfamiliar with the multi-tool given to me a couple days ago by my dad (he had found it some time ago). A little research at multitool.com and here at your wonderful site reveal it to be a Kershaw A100. I agree with you in that it is very intricate in design and of very high build quality, but too large for an EDC. Mine has a very rusty sawblade (apparently common with this tool) that needs replacing, and some various other rust that should clean up pretty well. It doesn't look like the Kershaw/Kai company supplies parts for their discontinued models, nor do I see any current listings on ebay for this tool/parts/accessories. Anyway, I am happy to have this tool and look forward to bringing her back to life. Thanks for your very informative website. GregK
Hi Greg,
That's a great present from your Dad, these things are becoming very scarce nowadays.
Enjoy bringing it back to life - although it's a bit big for EDC it's a great tool to have at hand for home DIY tasks and it's a very ergonomic tool in use.
Cheers,
Dave
That's a great present from your Dad, these things are becoming very scarce nowadays.
Enjoy bringing it back to life - although it's a bit big for EDC it's a great tool to have at hand for home DIY tasks and it's a very ergonomic tool in use.
Cheers,
Dave
# Justin Pediment on 16/04/11 at 18:27
The Kershaw really is the Bentley of EDCs. From the start it was over engineered and sold as a loss leader. That is, if you now are lucky enough to possess one you have a piece of kit designed outside the box and a bargain to boot.
Kershaw said, and I paraphrase, we give you a tool with all the essentials and none of the nonsense. That is exactly what they did.
If you have this rarity, count yourself lucky.
Kershaw said, and I paraphrase, we give you a tool with all the essentials and none of the nonsense. That is exactly what they did.
If you have this rarity, count yourself lucky.
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