A simple multitool can go a long way in the life of a boater, both on and off the water. With adventure-minded folk in mind, the James Brand have been crafting minimally designed tools for DIY-ers since 2012. Utilizing premium materials and a serious penchant for product design, the brand has grown a cult-like following because the products are both beautiful and functional.
The Ellis is the James Brand’s first knife offering accompanied by scissors. The unit is slim, measuring in at 3.5 inches, but manages to pack in a 2.6-inch partially, serrated drop-point blade (buyers can also opt for a flat blade). The setup feels solid in hand and is up to nearly any task. The blade is crafted from Swedish Sandvik steel, but should you find it’s not cutting what or how you need, flip out the scissors and get the job done. The craftsmanship is top-notch, and even small details go a long way. The wire-clip at the end allows the Ellis to be attached for carrying purposes, but also acts as a flat-head screwdriver, scraper, or prying tool. Don’t worry about bending or breaking it – the clip is as solid as the rest of the knife.
Pair the Ellis with the just-as-versatile Halifax, and you have a compact tool kit in your pocket. The Halifax doesn’t look like much at first glance, but upon further inspection you’ll quickly learn just how useful it can be. At just under three inches, the Halifax is slim, easily attaching to a keychain and stored in a pocket. Its billet construction with PVD coated stainless steel ensure top-notch strength, whatever the task. And when it comes to tasks, you can use the Halifax for countless things: screwdriver (the design fits both flathead and Phillips), prying, scraping, bottle-opening, and more. It easily fits and works for right- or left-hand use, and comes with a titanium key ring for attaching to your keychain.
If you’re a fan of keeping a knife on you most times, but don’t need the bulk and over-complication of a larger multi-tool the combination of the Ellis and Halifax is a no-brainer. Of course, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better-looking combo out there, as well. I’ve kept both in my pocket for well over a month and have been pleasantly surprised at just how useful they’ve been.
The James Brand – Ellis (as tested): $129
The James Brand – Halifax (as tested): $49
