Rather large and awkward as multi-purpose tools go, the NaviTool was the economy model in the Schrade "Intelligent Equipment" line that also included the i-Quip. Neither were very popular at the time. Despite the clumsiness of its design, the NaviTool embodies a quality of construction one came to expect from the old Schrade Cutlery company. Schrade closed its doors in 2004, and for a brief time production of all tools stopped. Taylor Brands has since bought the company, and moved all production to China. The drop in quality is noticable.
NaviTool components |
blades |
lighter compartment |
red LED light |
NaviTool -vs- i-Quip |
NaviTool -vs- i-Quip |
Housing
Construction of the NaviTool is basically made up of two seperate components. There is the compass module, containing a first rate liquid-filled compass, and the main housing, which contains everything else. The two pieces connect by means of a quarter-turn twist lock mechanism.The main housing is made up of two panels of aluminum sheet, sandwiched around a rubber-and-plastic center section. (Note that the metal panels on the NaviTool have a black anodized finish, while those on the i-Quip have matte aluminum finish)
Blades and Tools
All the blades and tools lock open except for the corkscrew.- Spear point knife blade with plain edge. Measures 2-3/4" long (65mm)
- Scissors
- Saw blade
- Combination flat phillips screwdriver/bottle opener
- Combination small flathead screwdriver/can opener
- Corkscrew
Locking Mechanism
A notch in the back of each blade is engaged by a spring tab, locking the blade open. It can be unlocked by pressing downwards on any of the neighboring blades.Other Features
Detachable compass module- liquid filled
- moveable declination screen
- ACME Tornado brand, made in England.
- Push button on top face of unit to actuate. Requires (1) CR2032 battery.
- Protected in compartment beneath electronics module.
- Note compartment is not waterproof. Designed for standard Bic lighter. See photo at right.
- Large spring-loaded affair, suitable for belt or backpack straps, etc.
Sheath
None.Dimensions
- Length = 4-1/4" (110mm)
- Width = 2-1/2" (65mm)
- Thickness = 2-1/4" (55mm)
- Weight = 8.7 oz (246g)
Variations
None.Background
Announced by Schrade as the ST175 NaviTool in late 2001. Made in USA. Production ceased in 2004 when Schrade Cutlery closed their doors. Production has since been restarted in China by Taylor Brands, however the quality of the tool has suffered greatly.Related Tools
The Schrade NaviTool is essentially a less-expensive i-Quip with a compass in place of the electronics module.Related Info
- NaviTool review - at Multitool.org
- Patent D456,687 - Tool pod housing
- NaviTool owners manual