I really hated being wrong about the Milwaukee fastback folding utility blade. I thought it would be one of the also-rans that always crop up around Christmas as a “Free Gift” in discounted toolkits. Leave it to Milwaukee to follow through with their threat to put muscle behind their hand tool development and make me feel like a jackwagon.
The fastback has proven to be a hardworking addition to the shop, office, automotive garage, and home area. Mention of its name is followed by a reach into my sidepocket instead of a run to the toolbox. It’s a subtle but distinct difference that speaks more to how comfortable it is to carry and use than tales of its battle prowess ever could be.
In the end, it’s a handle for a razorblade — the same cutting edge that can be found in every other blade extension out there. Some fold and have push-button locks that give a pleasing snap like the fastback, and others can be found marked 50 cents in the miscellaneous bin at the big box. Both will cut well, but on occasion you get a hold of a knife like the fastback that feels comfortable and immediately forms to your method of work.
Fastback 48-22-1901 Utility Knife [Milwaukee]
Crow: A Dish Best Served Never [Toolmonger]
Street Pricing [Google Products]
Via Amazon [What’s This?]