Blackburn "Toolmanator" 1 and 3: On Test

Today we would like to introduce you to a couple of multi-tools from Blackburn. Dubbed the "Toolmanator" these models have no scary bio-mechanical, alien technology. Nope! Just some decent features packed into a slim, compact package. Let's take a look...

Toolmanators #3 (left) and #1Toolmanator 1: This little, compact multi-tool is your basic necessity tool for rides where you may need to check the tightness of component fastners, adjust a seat binder bolt, or maybe adjust a disc brake caliper. Here are the features and the tools it packs on-board:

- One piece aluminum frame and ultra-slim design.

- Compact and super light.

- Hardest forged and drawn chrome vanadium tool bits.

- 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm Hex Keys and bladed screwdriver.

First Impressions: This little tool is.......little! I have several multi-tools and while some have a few more bits than the Toolmanator 1, it still is pretty amazing how slim and compact this little guy is. We'll have to see if it holds up to use in the field, and if we can keep track of the tiny thing! Perhaps a lanyard is in order here, it is that small. How small? Probably about the same size as a typical USB drive, maybe a skoshe wider. That's small!

Toolmanator 3: The Toolmanator 3 is a bit more fully featured multi-tool. One you might consider for helping support your really long, back country rides, where space and weight are an issue. Maybe for endurance rides on road or off. That said, the feature set seems to be geared more towards the off-road rider. The Toolmanator  3 features the same Chrome vanadium tool bits that are forged and hardened, like the model #1 above, and also has an ultra-slim, aluminum frame. Here is what you will find tucked away in the Toolmanator 3: 

1. Hex keys in the following sizes; 1.5mm, 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, and 8mm. Torx bits in T25 and T30 sizes, a Schrader Valve tool, Bladed and #2 Phillips screwdrivers, 10 speed compatible chain tool, and 14 and 15 gauge spoke wrenches. 
2. Mini-shock pump
3. Neoprene wrapper to hold it all.

That's a lot of functionality packed into one small space. It easily fits into the palm of my hand. In fact, both tools do. 

The Toolmanators are tiny!First Impressions: Yes- I listed a mini shock pump amongst the features on the Toolmanator 3. Don't get any ideas that you can toss out your big, bulky, regular sized shock pump though! This is meant for small adjustments only, not for setting up your suspension from scratch. That said, we'll be putting it to the test to see just what it can do, so you will have a better idea what you can rely on for with this feature, and the rest of the Toolmanator as well. 

This tool is amazing in that so many things are packed into the tiny space. The way each bit is made to fit precisely on its axis and next to other bits puts the design of most other multi-tools in the category of  "cave-man-like". Blackburn has certainly made this an impressive looking tool with a couple of outstanding features. Will they work well in the field? That is the question we will seek to answer for you all soon. 

Grannygear and I both have Toolmanators to test, so look for our combined review on these compact, slim, and well featured multi-tools soon.