Multi-Tool A100

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.



A100 (10).jpg
jaws
Multi-Tool A100
note V-groove
A100 (9).jpg
locking plier adjustment
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inch and metric scale
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blades fanned
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note unlock lever limits reach
Multi-Tool A100
liner lock
Multi-Tool A100
close-up
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A100C with Sheath
Multi-Tool A100
handle latch
Multi-Tool A100
plier jaw release assist lever
Crunch -vs- A100
Leatherman Crunch vs. A100
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.
A number of cheap knockoffs of the A100 have been produced and imported from China.

More Info


Created by Bob. Last Modification: Wednesday 20 of April, 2016 20:45:33 CEST by sLaughterMed.

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