Many modern multitools are made for outdoor use. They are small, useful, and easy to carry. The Ti-Trailblazer is different because its main feature is a compass, with 10 other tools built around it. This product is currently seeking money on Kickstarter.
Using a smartphone for navigation is handy until its battery dies or you lose cell service. A mechanical compass might seem old-fashioned, but it always works. It's a good backup to have when you are on trails.
Other compass-focused tools often focus on being small or on navigation features. The Ti-Trailblazer is a military-grade compass with a traditional design. What makes it special are its 10 built-in tools.
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The multitool is 60 mm (2.4 inches) wide and 16 mm (0.63 inches) thick. It has ribbed edges, making it easy to hold even in the rain or with gloves. You can get it in titanium alloy, copper, or stainless steel. The titanium version is the lightest, weighing 100 grams (3.5 ounces).
The titanium and stainless steel models are strong and resist rust. They are good for regular outdoor use. The copper version is the most expensive. It has 14K gold plating and is meant more as a collector's item than a heavy-duty tool.
The titanium and steel versions have glowing tritium tubes that can last up to 20 years. The compass markings also glow with tritium, making them easy to read in the dark.
Integrated Tools
One of the extra tools is a magnifying glass, which is not common in everyday carry tools. It can be useful outdoors for checking small details on gear, reading maps, or even starting a fire if there's enough sunlight.
There's also a hidden spot for a small screwdriver bit. You can unscrew part of the tool's body to put the bit in the center. This allows for quick repairs. The screwdriver is tiny, so it won't work for big jobs. However, it can tighten screws on pocket knives, eyeglasses, and some outdoor equipment.
Other tools are built around the compass's edge and twist out. These include a small utility blade for opening packages or cutting rope, a micro saw, and a bottle opener. The creators say the saw can cut small branches or prepare fire-starting material. However, its small size might require a lot of patience.
These extra tools seem best for emergencies when no other options are available. They are not likely to replace full-sized tools. If you have room in your backpack, it's still good to bring dedicated equipment you expect to use. The built-in bottle opener, though, seems perfectly sized for its job.
Early supporters on Kickstarter can get the compass for $59. The planned retail price is $138. If the campaign succeeds, shipping is expected to start in September.
Deep Dive & References
Ti-Trailblazer: The Ultimate EDC Titanium Survival Compass - Kickstarter
