As an outdoor enthusiast and a DIY hobbyist, I’m constantly on the lookout for tools that not only enhance my outdoor experiences but also come in handy for those unexpected repair jobs. The SOG Kilowatt, a unique multi-tool that merges a robust tactical knife with specialized electrical functions, caught my attention for its innovative design and practicality. In this comprehensive review, I’ll delve into my personal experience with the SOG Kilowatt, exploring its features, usability, and how it compares to other popular multi-tools on the market.
From the first impression and detailed design analysis to the tool’s wire stripping functionality and overall verdict, I’ve covered all aspects to give you an in-depth understanding of what the SOG Kilowatt has to offer. I’ve also included a detailed comparison with other renowned multi-tools to see how the Kilowatt stacks up in a broader context. Plus, for those looking for quick answers, I’ve added an FAQ section addressing common queries about the Kilowatt.
Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor adventurer, a casual camper, or someone who appreciates a good tool for home projects, this review is tailored to help you understand if the SOG Kilowatt is the right addition to your toolkit. So, let’s dive in and explore what this multi-tool has to offer!
Contents
First Impressions and Design
When I first received the SOG Kilowatt, my initial impression was a mix of curiosity and mild skepticism. As someone who frequently engages in outdoor activities like hiking and camping, I was interested in how this tool, with its unique blend of features, would fit into my gear lineup.
Size and Comfort: One of the first things I noticed about the Kilowatt was its size. It felt substantial yet not overly bulky, which is a plus when you’re considering gear that needs to be portable and not too heavy. The comfort of the tool was surprising, given its functionality. The handle, despite being packed with features, was quite ergonomic. The finger cutouts were well-spaced and provided a good grip, important for tasks that require precision.
Tactical Blade with Utility Focus: The Kilowatt sports a one-handed opening tactical-type blade which initially gave me the impression of a tool designed with a specific niche in mind. The drop point tip of the blade seemed robust enough for various outdoor activities. Whether it’s preparing kindling for a fire or cutting through tough material, the blade seemed up to the task.
Wire Stripping Features: As someone not particularly skilled in electrical work, the wire stripping features of the Kilowatt were intriguing. The tool includes dedicated wire strippers, a feature that isn’t common in many multi-tools. While I didn’t have much opportunity to test this feature extensively, it seemed capable of handling basic wire stripping tasks, which could be handy in certain outdoor or RV situations.
Adjustability and Accessibility: The thumbstud of the Kilowatt is well placed for right-handed use and can be adjusted for left-hand use, which demonstrates SOG’s attention to accessibility and user preference. The ability to adjust the tension on the pivot is a thoughtful addition, enhancing the overall user experience, especially for those who prefer a specific blade deployment feel.
Drawbacks: Despite its many positives, there were a few drawbacks. The design of the pocket clip, with its somewhat pointy corners, might be uncomfortable for some users. Also, the tool seems more suited to those who already carry a comprehensive multi-tool and might need a dedicated wire stripper or a one-handed blade as an addition to their existing setup.
The SOG Kilowatt stands out with its unique combination of a tactical blade and wire stripping features. It’s a specialized tool that would be a valuable addition to my outdoor gear, particularly for specific tasks where a sturdy blade and wire stripper are needed. However, it might not completely replace a more versatile multi-tool for broader use cases​​.
A Tactical Knife with Utility
When I first handled the SOG Kilowatt, its design as a tactical knife with added utility features struck me. The knife boasts a clip point blade made from AUS-8 steel, a material known for its good balance of toughness, edge retention, and resistance to corrosion. This makes it suitable for various outdoor and tactical scenarios I often find myself in.
Blade and Handling: The blade, measuring 3.4 inches with a thickness of 0.12 inches, provides a good balance between size and functionality. It’s neither too big nor too small for tasks like cutting ropes or preparing kindling. The flat grind on the blade ensures it has a sharp edge that’s also easy to maintain, a critical factor during long hiking trips or camping adventures.
Ergonomic Design: The handle of the Kilowatt is made from Glass-Filled Nylon (GFN), offering a durable and lightweight option that doesn’t compromise on grip. At 4.1 inches in length, it provides ample space for a secure grip, crucial when performing precise or demanding tasks in the outdoors.
Tactical and Everyday Use: Weighing in at just 3.3 ounces, the Kilowatt is lightweight enough for everyday carry but doesn’t skimp on the robustness required for more demanding outdoor tasks. This balance is essential for me as I need a knife that I can rely on both in the wilderness and for everyday chores.
The SOG Kilowatt strikes an impressive balance between tactical functionality and practical utility. Its robust blade, ergonomic design, and lightweight yet durable construction make it an ideal companion for my outdoor adventures and everyday tasks​​.
Wire Stripping Features
As someone who occasionally dabbles in DIY projects, the wire stripping features of the SOG Kilowatt caught my attention. It’s designed with electricians, homeowners, contractors, and outdoor enthusiasts like me in mind, especially when a quick wire stripping solution is needed.
Multiple Stripping Options: The Kilowatt offers three different systems for addressing wire stripping. This includes a stripper bar for wire sizes of 10-22, an adjustable spring-loaded UTP/wire stripper, and a hole stripper that uses the main blade. This versatility allows me to tackle various types of wire stripping tasks, whether I’m fixing a gadget in my RV or setting up a solar panel at a campsite.
Practical and Efficient: The wire stripping features are integrated into the knife’s design in a way that doesn’t compromise its overall functionality. I found it particularly convenient that I didn’t need to carry a separate tool for wire stripping. This feature alone makes the Kilowatt a standout in my toolkit, providing practicality and efficiency in a compact form.
User-Friendly Design: The schematic grips and insulator thumb stud on the Kilowatt add to its ease of use. The grips are comfortable and provide a firm hold, which is crucial when stripping wires to avoid any accidents. These design elements make the tool not just a knife but a specialized gadget that caters to specific needs in an outdoor or DIY setting.
The wire stripping features of the SOG Kilowatt are thoughtfully designed, efficient, and user-friendly, making it an excellent addition to my outdoor and DIY toolkit. It’s a unique feature that sets this tool apart from other tactical knives and multi-tools I’ve used before.
Comparison: SOG Kilowatt vs. Other Popular Multi-Tools
In my quest to find the perfect multi-tool for my outdoor and DIY activities, I’ve compared the SOG Kilowatt with several other renowned multi-tools on the market. Here’s an in-depth look at how the Kilowatt stacks up against its competitors. Before making a decision you should also read our best multi tool for electricians guide.
Leatherman Skeletool CX
- Functions: The Skeletool CX is a minimalist tool with 7 functions, including a full-size knife made of 154CM stainless steel, wire cutters, pliers, and a carabiner/bottle opener.
- Weight: At 5 ounces, it’s light and easy to carry.
- Unique Features: Its skeletonized body and accessible tools without opening the tool make it user-friendly.
- Best For: Those looking for a lightweight, everyday carry tool with essential functionalities.
The SOG Kilowatt, while similar in weight, focuses more on the electrical utility aspect, particularly with its wire stripping features, which the Skeletool lacks.
Leatherman Signal Multi-tool
- Functions: With 19 functions, the Signal is designed for outdoor survival, including a fire starter and an emergency whistle.
- Weight: It’s slightly heavier at 7.5 oz.
- Unique Features: It includes a hammer section on the carabiner clip and replaceable cutters.
- Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts needing a robust toolset for survival scenarios.
The Kilowatt, in contrast, is more specialized with its electrical tools, making it better suited for specific electrical tasks rather than broad outdoor survival needs.
Victorinox Pioneer X Alox Multi-tool
- Functions: Offers 9 functions and is a more traditional Swiss Army Knife.
- Weight: It’s lighter at 3.3 oz.
- Unique Features: Known for its aluminum scales and Swiss-made quality.
- Best For: Users who prefer a classic Swiss Army Knife with basic functionalities.
The Kilowatt differs here with its tactical knife design and specific electrical features, catering more towards users who need both a robust knife and wire stripping tools.
Gerber Center-Drive Multi-tool
- Functions: 12 functions, with a focus on its bit driver.
- Weight: Heavier at 9.5 oz.
- Unique Features: Features a center-axis screwdriver for maximum torque and a full-sized blade.
- Best For: Those needing a multi-tool with strong screwdriving capabilities.
Compared to the Kilowatt, the Center-Drive is more versatile in general tool functions, whereas the Kilowatt excels in its niche of electrical work and tactical blade use.
Gerber Shard Keychain Multi-tool
- Functions: 7 functions in a keychain-sized tool.
- Weight: Only 1 oz.
- Unique Features: It’s airline safe and great for minimalistic carry.
- Best For: Users needing a simple, travel-friendly tool for basic tasks.
The Kilowatt is significantly more advanced in terms of functionality, especially for electrical tasks, than the simple design of the Gerber Shard.
Leatherman Style PS Multi-tool
- Functions: 9 functions, including tweezers and a carabiner.
- Weight: 1.58 oz.
- Unique Features: TSA compliant for travel.
- Best For: Travelers looking for a small, versatile tool.
The SOG Kilowatt, with its specific focus on electrical tasks and a more robust knife, offers a different set of functionalities compared to the Style PS, which is more geared towards travel and everyday carry.
While each of these multi-tools has its strengths, the SOG Kilowatt stands out for its unique combination of a tactical knife and specialized wire stripping features, making it an ideal choice for those who frequently engage in outdoor activities and occasional electrical work. The choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and the type of tasks you expect to encounter​​​​.
Pros and Cons
After extensively using the SOG Kilowatt in various settings, from outdoor adventures to home DIY projects, I’ve identified several key pros and cons of this unique multi-tool.
Pros
- Specialized Wire Stripping Features: The Kilowatt excels with its dedicated wire stripping capabilities. This includes a stripper bar for sizes 10-22, an adjustable spring-loaded UTP/wire stripper, and a hole stripper using the main blade. These features are invaluable for electrical work in outdoor settings or quick DIY fixes.
- Robust Tactical Knife: The clip point blade made of AUS-8 steel offers a great balance of toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. This makes the Kilowatt not only a utility tool but also a reliable tactical knife.
- Ergonomic Design: With a handle made of Glass-Filled Nylon (GFN), the Kilowatt offers a durable, lightweight, and comfortable grip. This ergonomic design is crucial for precision and demanding tasks.
- Lightweight and Portable: Weighing just 3.3 ounces, it’s light enough for everyday carry, yet robust enough for outdoor tasks, striking a balance between portability and functionality.
- Adjustable and Accessible: Features like the adjustable thumbstud for right or left-handed use and the ability to adjust the tension on the pivot make the Kilowatt a user-friendly tool.
Cons
- Limited Utility Beyond Electrical Work: While it’s excellent for specific tasks, the Kilowatt may not replace a more comprehensive multi-tool for broader applications.
- Pocket Clip Design: Some users might find the pocket clip’s design a bit uncomfortable due to its pointy corners.
- Aesthetic Choices: The design and “decoration” of the Kilowatt might not appeal to everyone, with some users finding it a bit over the top.
- Lack of Additional Tools: Unlike other multi-tools, the Kilowatt lacks additional functionalities like pliers, screwdrivers, or saws, which limits its versatility in certain scenarios.
- Specific Target Audience: The Kilowatt is tailored more towards users who need both a robust knife and wire stripping tools, which might not cater to all users’ needs.
The SOG Kilowatt is an innovative tool that excellently serves its niche of combining a tactical knife with wire stripping capabilities. It’s particularly suited for outdoor enthusiasts who dabble in electrical work. However, for those looking for a more versatile range of tools in a single package, it might be necessary to complement the Kilowatt with other tools.
FAQs: SOG Kilowatt Multi Tool
In this section, I’ll address some frequently asked questions about the SOG Kilowatt Multi Tool, drawing on my personal experience and insights from various sources.
What Makes the SOG Kilowatt Unique Compared to Other Multi-Tools?
The SOG Kilowatt stands out due to its specialized wire stripping features, including a stripper bar, an adjustable spring-loaded UTP/wire stripper, and a hole stripper using the main blade. Additionally, its robust tactical knife design, made with AUS-8 steel, sets it apart from typical multi-tools that focus more on pliers or screwdrivers.
Is the SOG Kilowatt Suitable for Everyday Carry?
Yes, the Kilowatt is suitable for everyday carry. It’s lightweight at just 3.3 ounces and has an ergonomic design. However, it’s more specialized for electrical tasks and basic cutting needs, so it might not replace a more comprehensive multi-tool for broader everyday applications.
Can the SOG Kilowatt be Used as a Tactical Knife?
Absolutely. The Kilowatt’s knife is designed with tactical use in mind. The blade is sturdy, sharp, and durable, making it suitable for various outdoor and self-defense scenarios.
How Durable is the SOG Kilowatt?
The Kilowatt is quite durable. It’s made with high-quality AUS-8 steel and Glass-Filled Nylon for the handle, ensuring both the blade and the handle can withstand rigorous use.
Is the SOG Kilowatt Easy to Use for Left-Handed People?
Yes, the Kilowatt is designed with ambidexterity in mind. The thumbstud is adjustable for left-handed use, making it a versatile choice for both right and left-handed individuals.
Does the SOG Kilowatt Come with a Warranty?
Typically, SOG products come with a warranty, but it’s best to check the specific warranty details for the Kilowatt at the time of purchase or on the manufacturer’s website for the most accurate information.
How Does the Wire Stripping Function Perform Compared to Dedicated Wire Strippers?
While the wire stripping function on the Kilowatt is effective for basic and occasional use, it might not replace dedicated wire strippers for more complex or heavy-duty electrical work. However, for most everyday and outdoor scenarios, it performs admirably.
Is the SOG Kilowatt TSA Compliant for Air Travel?
Due to its blade, the Kilowatt is not TSA compliant. You should not carry it in your carry-on luggage when flying.
Can the SOG Kilowatt Handle Heavy-Duty Tasks?
The Kilowatt is robust enough for medium-duty tasks, especially related to cutting and basic wire stripping. However, for heavy-duty tasks that require tools like pliers, a wrench, or a more extensive set of screwdrivers, you might need a more comprehensive multi-tool.
How Does the Price of the SOG Kilowatt Compare to Other Multi-Tools?
The Kilowatt is generally priced competitively, often falling in the mid-range compared to other multi-tools. It offers good value for its specialized features, especially if you frequently engage in activities that benefit from its unique capabilities.
By answering these questions, I hope to provide a clearer understanding of the SOG Kilowatt’s capabilities and suitability for various needs and scenarios. Remember, the best tool for you depends on your specific requirements and the tasks you plan to tackle.
Verdict
After thoroughly testing the SOG Kilowatt in various outdoor and DIY scenarios, I’m ready to share my final thoughts. This multi-tool uniquely blends a robust tactical knife with versatile wire stripping features, catering to a specific yet essential need in the toolkit of an outdoor enthusiast like myself.
Strengths and Limitations: The Kilowatt shines in its specialized features. The ergonomic design, combined with a durable and sharp blade, makes it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures. The wire stripping functionality is a standout, providing me with an invaluable tool for electrical fixes without needing additional gear.
However, its specialized nature also brings limitations. While excellent in its niche, it may not replace a more comprehensive multi-tool for broader applications.
Who Is It For?: This tool is perfect for those who appreciate a tactical knife with the added benefit of electrical tool functionality. It’s particularly suited for hikers, campers, RV enthusiasts, and DIYers who occasionally need to strip wires but don’t want the bulk of carrying separate tools.
Final Thoughts: The SOG Kilowatt is a testament to innovative design, bringing together two distinct functionalities in one sleek package. Its utility in specific scenarios is unmatched, though it might need to be complemented with other tools for more diverse applications. As an outdoor and DIY enthusiast, the Kilowatt has earned a permanent spot in my gear collection.
