Product Spotlight: The Brass Capsule Multi-Tool

Product Spotlight: The Brass Capsule Multi-Tool

By Anthony Francis

Of all the new tools we’ve launched this year, the capsule multi tool is the most exciting. Like most of our other tools, we’ve taken an old and obscure design, and modernized it to be useful again. It was fun to develop and we’re proud to say there is nothing else like it.

3-D print prototype of the Brass Capsule Multi-Tool

On the surface, this is simply a small brass capsule holding an assortment of bits. However, having spent almost 2 years working with 70-year-old originals, 3-d printed prototypes and various iterations, I can promise you that this is a sophisticated, elegant and useful update.

Brass Capsule’s Components

The original capsule that I found in a London Flea market was well tarnished with deformed bits inside. In my experience, any old tool with deformed parts is a big hint about its usefulness, not an indicator of its quality.

The Original Multi-Tool

In the generation since this was last made, we’ve changed our methods or work and the materials that we work with, so the 4 bits reflect these changes. For example, you are unlikely to need an awl for leather repair so it’s been traded for a Phillips bit screwdriver, which every modern tinkerer needs. The beauty and utility of Brass is timeless so I kept the case that way, but improved the alloy for more strength (and skipped the chrome plating).

The Original Brass Capsule Multi-Tool

Garrett Wade’s Brass Capsule Multi-Tool

This is a cool little tool that you will love for its looks as much as you’ll love it for it’s utility.