Spyderenc and Byrdrench

L

Locust

Joined
Sep 30, 2008
Messages
539
I haven't seen much in the way of chatter on the board about either the Spyderench or the Byrdrench. I'm wondering how they compare to other multi-tool designs. Also how well do they stack up against each other? Is the difference in features/fit and finish worth the difference in cost?

Edit: Could a mod add the "h" at the end of spyderench? I have no idea how I missed that.
 
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I don't carry mine, but if I recall correctly another Bladeforums member carries or used to carry one. I do think that it's one of the most innovative designs. My favorite is probably the original SpydeRench which was manufactured in the USA. I also have one that was hand finished by its inventor--He was (and may be still) hand finishing and auctioning off the last of the remaining stock of the original.
 
They are a multi-tool fanatics fully functional play toy. I have a Byrdrench, and it is VERY functional if a bit cumbersome to use. The blade is very sharp, easy to get to, locks up tight, and is a good size for cutting tasks. The slip joint pliers, while small, have come in handy many a time (also, for those that wish this tool had a bottle opener, the pliers are the PERFECT size to grip and pry off the cap;)). The crescent wrench (the most novel tool on the rig) is great for smaller nuts. Also, being able to break down the tool to have a screwdriver to turn while you secure the nut on the other end of the bold with the wrench is pretty handy at times.

That's about it, thought. Getting to the screw drivers is a multi-process ordeal. You have to remove the file and spring, dig out the driver bit, probably replace the file and spring so you don't lose them, do your 4 seconds worth of tightening/loosening, then spend another 45 seconds replacing the bit. If you mainly need a small pair of regular slip joint pliers, a small wrench, and a serviceable blade, then the Rench is a nice set up. Most of us need a little more function than that.

However, I will never part with my Byrd. First of all, it was a gift from my wife. Second of all, it reminds me of my first multi-tool (well, before I started carrying Gerber/LM in the late 90's). My dad bought me one of those cheap crescent wrench tools with the knife blade, drivers, and scissors for Christmas. i remember it well. It was the first time I had a gift under the tree that wasn't from "Santa". It was small, yet heavy. Obviously not a toy or clothes. I was 6 years old and LOVED it...for all of a couple of weeks before i lost it. I hope whoever found it was named Jacob as it has my name etched on the side. 22 years ago, and it is still my most memorable present.

In short, unless you have a very specific need for such a tool or have a sentimental connection to crescent wrenches, the Renches are just not that practical. I carry mine from time to time mostly for the knife. It's also nice that you can break it down like a 1911 and clean all the fuzz out, oil it, and put it back together. Great tool, pretty small niche.
 
I have one of the original USA made Spyderco Spyderenchs. When I go hunting, fishing or hiking I always carry my Spyderench along with my Victorinox SWISS TOOL. They are both completely different multi-tools but they do compliment each other nicely.

Do keep in mind that I am a very devout Spyderco fanatic :D. But I do like the Spyderench because it's such a completely different and unorthadox multi-tool. I've yet to try one of the newer Byrdwrenches but I eventually will.

Now when it comes to a more conventional type multi-tool I find Victorinox hard to beat. I've had 3 of the Victorinox tools and they were all great.
 
Thanks for the information guys. They do seem neat and I can see myself trying one out someday, but for practicalities sake I'll probably go with something plier based the next time I'm get a multi-tool...unless I still can't resist an OHT.
 
I don't think that there is any question as to the standard pliers based multi-tool being much more versatile than either of the Rench tools. Really, a good Victorinox, LM, or SOG will serve you well. Even the USA made Gerber tools are probably a more practical tool than the Rench.

Don't get me wrong. I love my ByrdRench. It has a geeky cool factor and even in the midst of other tool carrying folks, it's not likely anyone else will be sporting one in their pocket:D Plus it has a nice clip on it. However, for the weight and design, I'd stick with one of the other tools for day to day carry. Plus the Rench is way more expensive for what you get.
 
Yea I figured that plier based tools would be more practical but I still wanted to see what others thought of the tool. I have no sentimental attachment to crescent wrenches but for some reason the addition of one on a multi-tool seems cool to me.
 
I think you have to sacrifice the pliers if you want a crescent wrench based tool to be practical. If I needed a new carabiner for my keys I'd consider a CRKTT guppie, although I dont think I'd care much for the knife.
 
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