First things first: let me apologize to the fine folks at Keyport for my delay in writing this review. I received a set of Keyport’s Anywhere Tools all the way back in February. I put them on my keys, hoping to get some real-world use out of them before writing my review.
For all these months, I’ve kept forgetting to write that review. But I’ve used this device nearly every day, and I have no intention of giving it up any time soon.
The Anywhere Tools kit comes with a pocket knife, 11-in-1 multitool, the pocket flare, a charging cable for that flare, a paracord lanyard to attach it to my keyring, a few different side plates, and the RuSH multi-purpose tool (which I never ended up using). Each tool is its own module, which can be mixed and matched according to your tastes (the pocket knife, multi-tool, and flashlight have been on my keys all these months).
The modules slide together and lock with a satisfying snap. I’ve accidentally slammed it against a few walls these past few months (I’m a little clumsy), and the modules have never come undone.
In actual use, it’s proven to be a versatile, practical, and powerful tool. The multi-tool includes a few socket sizes, a box opener, Philips and flathead screwdrivers, a bottle opener, and a short ruler. The arrangement of these tools on the single blade is generally pretty practical, though I once sliced my thumb on the box cutter when trying to use the Philips screwdriver. The bottle opener, however, has never done me wrong.
The pocketknife is small but sharp. I’ve taken it to a number of cables, threads, ropes, and other things that have needed cutting, and I’ve been impressed each time. It’s definitely sharper than every Swiss Army Knife and various other multitools I’ve owned over the years. (I’ve also cut myself on it. Like I said: clumsy).
The pocket flare has two modes: a flashlight and a lamp mode. They are both surprisingly bright but are cursed with alarmingly short battery life. It retains full brightness for the first couple days after charging, but it quickly gets dim. This wouldn’t be an issue if I was charging it regularly, but it’s much easier to just use my iPhone’s flashlight than to remember to bring my keys to my computer so I can charge it.
In all, a poor flashlight battery life isn’t enough to undo the rest of the modules. The Anywhere Tools are surprisingly useful for their compact size, offering excellent performance in an aesthetically attractive and lightweight package.
The Anywhere Tools retail for $59.99 and are available on KeyPort’s website.
Source: Manufacturer supplied review unit
What I Like: Looks great, lightweight, and durable; Tools are surprisingly strong
What Needs Improvement: Flashlight battery life is very short