Multi-tools are are an EDC must for many of us. When folded and put away a traditional multi-tool is basically an odd shaped rectangle. If you don’t mind carrying it in a belt pouch, then this typically isn’t an issue. I personally hate things that aren’t guns on my belt, and I can’t carry via belt in formal clothes anyway. I find that odd rectangle to be just as odd in my pocket. It takes up the room in my pocket that I could be using for my cell phone, keys, Skittles, you know normal stuff. The SOG Baton aims to cure the awkwardness associated with carrying a multi-tool.
What’s the SOG Baton
The SOG Baton, or Batons, are a series of multi-tools designed to be easier to pocket carry and are an inspired minimalist design. There are four total Batons, but today I am mainly talking about the Baton Q3. What sets the Baton apart is that instead of folding in half and forming those awkward rectangles it folds into a straight line. To open it you pull the two sides apart and it folds downward, forming your pliers.
The Q3 is packed with 13 tools and is the model that best represents the classic multi-tool. The tools included are as follows:
- Awl
- Blade (Straight Edge)
- Bolt/Nut Gripper
- Bottle Opener
- Can Opener
- Chisel
- File (3-Sided)
- Flat Screwdriver (Medium)
- Flat Screwdriver (Small)
- Jewelry Driver
- Phillips Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Wire Cutters
The SOG Baton Q3 only needs to be folded to use the pliers. The rest of the tools can be used with the SOG in the straight configuration. I really, really like this. It forms a straight grip like any other hand tool. The SOG Baton is comfortable to use and offers more direct control over the tools.
Carry and Use
The SOG Baton attaches inside the pocket via a simple pocket clip. It rides like any pocket knife. It doesn’t take up tons of unnecessary room in the pocket and doesn’t present an ungainly and unflattering bulge. At the same time, it doesn’t compromise on design or the tools provided. I personally can’t go back to a normal multi-tool for EDC. For my normal life, I find this to be the perfect piece of kit. I’ve sued it to fix a light switch, open a Sam Adams, and even help finish an 80% lower. Check out the SOG Baton Q3 here. Take a peek at the other models too. They all present a variety of different options for different needs.
Travis Pike is a former Marine Machine gunner who served with 2nd Bn 2nd Marines for 5 years. He deployed in 2009 to Afghanistan and again in 2011 with the 22nd MEU(SOC) during a record setting 11 months at sea. He’s trained with the Romanian Army, the Spanish Marines, the Emirate Marines and the Afghan National Army. He serves as an NRA certified pistol instructor and teaches concealed carry classes.
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