History: ST1 Tough Tool variations

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Jaws

The original Series 1 tools had jaws produced by stamping six different pieces out from heavy gauge sheet metal then laminating them together with rivets. Fine and coarse serrations were then cut into the sandwich of jaw plates, no doubt an expensive operation. Wire cutter area was also cut after stamping. Note stylized SCHRADE logo and right-side-up USA logo.



Series 2 tools appeared sometime before 2000 (based on a photograph in the 2000 Field & Stream ad) Jaws were still produced from six pieces riveted together, but the pieces had changed somewhat. Now the center sections were investment cast, while only the outer four plates were stamped steel. Serrations were still cut after assembly. Wire cutters however were cast in from the start, eliminating some cost. Note plain SCHRADE logo and upsidedown USA logo.



The entire jaw was cast solid on the Series 3 tools. Somewhat humorously, fake rivet heads were also cast into the jaws. (even though they serve no function) Jaw serrations were also cast in instead of cut in afterwards. By eliminating the rivets and the "sandwich" construction, number of pieces for a complete plier head was reduced from ten down to only two. Plus no more labor involved in assembly, riveting, and cutting serrations. Cost savings must have been considerable.



After Taylor Brands acquired the Schrade name, production of the ST1 was resumed in China. These Series 4 Tough Tools resemble the American made models in appearance only. Close examination makes it clear that none of the dies or tooling from the original plant is being used to manufacture today's tools. Jaws remain entirely cast, with heavy burrs on a number of inner surfaces. The SCHRADE logo is now cast in place. Also note the flush plier pivot.

Handles/Frame

Handles do not vary much among the different series. All of them have a large stylized SHRADE TOUGH logo on one handle.

Series 1 tools have PAT PEND on the other handle.

Series 2, 3, and 4 have a long list of seven U.S. patent numbers.

Series 3 tools have stiffener bumps on the blade locking tabs, both handles.

Blades and Tools

Blade selection changed throughought the life of the ST1. Below is a list of blades included with the original Series 1 model:

• Can opener
• Plain edge knife blade, Sheepsfoot profile. Measures 2-1/4" long (55mm)
• Flattened phillips screwdriver
• Partially serrated knife blade, clip point profile. Measures 2-1/4" long (60mm)
• Combination edge knife blade, clip point profile. Measures 2-1/2" long (65mm)
• Three sided file blade, with hook disgorger on end

• Inch and metric ruler
• Fully serrated knife blade, sheepsfoot profile. Measures 2-1/2" long (62mm)
• Unusual hook-shape knife
• Large flathead screwdriver, with wire stripper V notch along edge
• Small flathead screwdriver

Note only the phillips screwdriver, clip point knife, serrated knife, and large flathead screwdriver lock open.

Locking Mechanism

A patented locking mechanism engages a slot in the back of the lockable blades. Pressing downwards on a neighboring blade releases the lock.

Other Features

A hole in one handle is provided for lanyard attachment.

Sheath

Two sheath options were available standard: Heavy leather with snap closure, and woven nylon with velcro closure. Vertical or horizontal carry.

Dimensions

• Length open = 7" (178mm)
• Length closed = 4-3/4" (122mm)
• Width closed = 1-3/8" (36mm)
• Thickness = 5/8" (17mm)
• Weight = 8.3 oz (236g)

Variations

Over the years the ST1 continued to evolve as manufacturing methods changed. Most dramatic differences can be seen in the plier head and the blade selection:

Background

Introduced in 1997. Produced in USA until Schrade closed its doors in 2004.

A newer version, similar in appearance but lower in quality, currently produced in China and sold by Taylor Brands Schrade.

Related Tools

The ST5E Tough Tool and the ST2 Tough Chip bear a family resemblence to the ST1.

Related Info

• Schrade ST1 review - at Multitool.org
• ST1 advertisement - from the Sept 1998 issue of Backpacker Magazine
• ST1 advertisement - from the Dec 2000 issue of Field & Stream Magazine
• Tough Tool ST1 Owner's Manual

The famous Blackie Collins first patented the idea of side folding blades on a multitool. His patent #5062173 is a crude but obvious predecessor to the ST1:

• Multifunction Tool

The first patent registered in Schrade's name for the ST1 is this one #5963999

• Multi-Purpose Folding Tool