Multi-Tool A100

The A100 broke new ground in the world of multitools when it was introduced in 1997. Available a full two years before the Leatherman Crunch, it was the first multitool to feature locking plier jaws. Also groundbreaking at the time was its one-hand-opening, liner locking knife blade. Ironically enough, the double folded sheet metal handle with one hand blade was seen again the very next year on the Leatherman Wave.

jaws

note V-groove

locking plier adjustment

inch and metric scale

blades fanned

note unlock lever limits reach

liner lock

close-up

A100C with Sheath

handle latch

plier jaw release assist lever

Leatherman Crunch vs. A100

Folded Crunch -vs- Kershaw A100

Jaws

• Jaw shape is needlenose, with fine serrations, a gripping area, and a large wire cutter. (No hard wire notch is included)
• Finish is bead blast matte stainless.
• The upper jaw has a V-notch running lengthwise, to easier grip fish hooks and such.
• Jaws are spring loaded.

Handles/Frame

• Handles are sheet metal bent into complex shapes.
• The lower handle is a channel shape containing four crossbolts to facilitate the locking mechanism.
• The upper handle is bent into an S-shape, with the lock adjustment in one channel and the outside opening knife blade in the other.
• Finish is bead blast matte stainless.
• KERSHAW MULTI-TOOL USA is stamped onto one side. KAI PAT. PENDING is stamped onto the other.
• An inch scale is stamped along one edge of the bottom side. A metric scale runs along the opposite edge.
• Pivot screws are an odd mix of hex heads and knurled heads. (although photos of tools with hex socket round head screws have been noted)

Blades and Tools

• Drop point knife blade, with half serrated edge. Measures 2-3/4" long (70mm)
• Features a thumb stud for one-hand-opening
• Phillips screwdriver
• Can opener
• Two-sided file blade, with single cut and double cut teeth
• Fine tooth metal cutting saw blade
• Medium flathead screwdriver

Locking Mechanism

• The knife blade locks open via a standard liner lock.

Other Features

• When not in use, the handles are held closed by a latch that rotates into place along one side.
• A bump and detent prevent the latch from swinging freely when it is disengaged.
• An assist lever helps to unlock the jaws when gripping something tightly.

Sheath

• Standard sheath was a woven cordura nylon affair with velcro closure. Belt loop allowed vertical carry only.
• Also available was a form fitted leather sheath with open top.

Dimensions

• Length = 6-3/4" (171mm)
• Width = 1-1/4" (32mm)
• Thickness = 5/8" (16mm)
• Weight = 8.6 oz (244g)

Variations

• Kershaw produced the Model 45516 for Sears Craftsman, which differs only in the stamped logo.
• Note that model numbers such as A100C or A100L simply indicate Cordura or Leather sheaths. The tools themselves are identical.

Background

• Introduced in 1997. Made in the USA.

Related Tools

More Info

• A100 owner's manual
• A100 Multi Tool review - at Multitool.org
• Patent #6,412,130