In the world of everyday carry, the quest for the perfect multi-tool is never-ending. It’s the journey not the destination! This holds true even with keychain multi-tools. NexTool, a brand becoming known for its rapid-fire innovation, has just tossed a new contender into the ring: the Mini Sailor S11 Pro. An iteration of the Mini Sailor line, this is a thoughtful evolution that addresses user feedback and raises the bar for what a compact tool can be.
First Impressions: More Than Just a Minor Upgrade
Right out of the box, the S11 Pro makes a statement. The packaging includes the multi-tool, a user manual, and a dedicated flyer for the scissors, hinting at the attention to detail within. The tool itself feels substantial, with a sturdy build held together by torx screws. Its blue aluminum scales give it a modern, sleek look, while the glow-in-the-dark spacers are a genuinely clever touch for anyone who’s fumbled for their keys in the dark.
A significant upgrade is the blade steel. The main knife is crafted from 8Cr14 steel, a notable improvement for edge retention and durability, while the other components utilize a robust 5Cr15Ov steel.
The Main Event: A Stellar Set of Pliers
The star of the show is undoubtedly the pliers. With a handsome black stonewashed finish, these spring-loaded pliers feature a precise, long-nose design, a bolt gripper, and capable wire cutters. The action feels remarkably smooth, a clear refinement over its predecessor. A cleverly hidden lanyard loop adds to its keychain-readiness without disrupting the tool’s clean lines.
A Pocket-Sized Toolbox
The S11 Pro packs an impressive array of implements into its compact frame:
- Sheep’s Foot Blade: The non-locking 8Cr14Ov steel blade is practical for everyday cutting tasks.
- Bottle Opener/Flathead Screwdriver: A classic combo that’s always useful to have on hand.
- Phillips Head Screwdriver: The 2.5D Phillips head is perfect for quick fixes on the go.
- Scissors: These aren’t an afterthought. The scissors are impressively sharp and smooth, making them a genuinely useful addition.
- Dual-Sided File: Featuring both a cross-cut side for rougher jobs and an awesome diamond-coated side, this file is versatile enough for everything from a quick nail touch-up to light sharpening tasks.
- Saw: A small but capable metal saw that can also pull double duty as a larger flathead screwdriver.
- SIM Extraction Tool: A nod to our modern, connected lives. Tucked away behind the bottle opener, it’s a thoughtful inclusion, even if it is a little tricky to access.
Final Thoughts: A New Keychain Champion?
The NexTool Mini Sailor S11 Pro is more than just an incremental update; it’s a testament to listening to your audience. It takes everything that made the original S11 great and makes it better. When compared to a legend like the now-discontinued Leatherman Squirt, the S11 Pro not only matches its toolset but arguably makes it more robust.
While it is slightly larger than the Squirt, it remains perfectly suited for life on a keychain or in a fifth pocket. For those looking for a compact, capable, and well-built multi-tool, the NexTool Mini Sailor S11 Pro makes a compelling case for being the best keychain multi-tool on the market today.
