This Affordable New Blacked-Out Japanese Multi-Tool Has Leatherman in Its Sights
The new Blackjaw from Tokyo's Tsuchioto Works is pretty compelling, just not for the reason its creator touts.
If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more
As multi-tool enthusiasts know, Portland, Oregon-based Leatherman has long been the big 'man on campus.
From keychain multi-tools like the Micra to pinnacle products like the Arc , the brand runs the gamut on both pricing and capability.
Tsuchioto Works built its multi-tool with aluminum and stainless steel, then gave the whole package a blacked-out finish that's hard to ignore. - Credit: Tsuchioto Works
That's what makes Leatherman so tough to beat, but it sure doesn't stop challengers from trying.
The latest to enter the ring is Tokyo-based Tsuchioto Works, whose new Blackjaw is a contender but not really the way it thinks.
Starring in a new Kickstarter campaign, the aluminum and stainless steel multi-tool boasts a blacked-out finish and 10 key functions (we don't count the carabiner, as it adds convenience but is not in itself a traditional implement).
The focused toolset includes a wire cutter, knife, wire-stripping blade, double-sided saw, Phillips head, flat screwdriver, can opener, bottle opener and both standard and long-nose pliers (in action above). - Credit: Tsuchioto Works
Those EDC essentials include long-nose and standard pliers, wire cutter, knife, wire-stripping blade, double-side saw, Philips head, flat screwdriver, can opener and bottle opener.
That said, Tsuchioto Works seems a bit too excited about the fact all the Blackjaw's implements are secured to the chassis, with no swappable tools, interchangeable bits or other accessories to potentially lose.
The Blackjaw stays true to tradition (and its slim profile) with implements that offer more than one fuction, such as this bottle opener/flathead screwdriver. - Credit: Tsuchioto Works
That has its benefits, obviously, but it does mean sacrificing versatility, as if you encounter a Philips head or flathead the Blackjaw can't handle, you are SOL.
There's also the fact that for prices in the same ballpark, you can score a Leatherman Sidekick or Skeletool , which offer comparable feature sets, backed by the brand's sterling reputation and its robust warranty .
Every tool on the 7.8-ounce multi-tool is fixed to the chassis … there are no swappable implements, interchangeable bits or accessories. - Credit: Tsuchioto Works
So why would you want to opt for the Blackjaw instead? If I were making the case, it would rest on less … concrete factors.
First and foremost, it is focused, able to handle probably 95 percent of the everyday tasks you encounter, lending streamlined certitude.
I am a tad wary of the wire stripper, which is not shown in action in the Kickstarter video. - Credit: Tsuchioto Works
It is rebellious, standing up in the face of Leatherman's seemingly monolithic control of the space.
It also boasts Japanese design, which is generally quite coveted in the knife and EDC space.
Finally, that blacked-out finish (even without a clear functional benefit such as Cerakote) is simply a banger, ensuring your multi-tool performs just as well as it looks.
Looks aren't everything, but at the end of the day, the Blackjaw's aesthetics might be its strongest case. - Credit: Tsuchioto Works
If such elements score high in your book, this $80 option just might be the ticket.
Though if I were you, I'd probably take a long, lingering look at Leatherman's Skeletool first.
Availability and pricing
The Tsuchioto Works Blackjaw is available now at the Super Early Bird price of $80 while supplies last. Estimated delivery is March 2027.
Tsuchioto Works Blackjaw 11-in-1 EDC Multi-Tool
About the Author:
Now managing editor, Steve has served in a variety of roles with GP since 2019. Having previously written and edited for such publications as Men's Health, Men's Journal, Esquire and ESPN, he enjoys covering a range of topics — but mostly those pertaining to cycling, snow sports, pocket knives and motos — and dreams of a utopian world in which everyone's bike seat is at the proper height.
