Klein Tools 1016 TripSaver® Multi-Tool

The Klein Tools 1016 TripSaver carries five blades: a drop point blade at 1-7/8 inches, a serrated blade, a wood cutting blade, a file with a stripping notch, and a trailing point blade at 2-1/2 inches. Alongside those it has a drywall saw, #1 and #2 Phillips hex bits, small-slotted and large-slotted hex bits, a 1/4-inch socket adapter, and a lanyard hole. A nylon pouch is included.

No. The 1016 TripSaver is not insulated and Klein states it must never be used on or near live circuits. It is built for electricians and maintenance work on de-energized equipment. If you need to work energized, use properly rated insulated (1000V) hand tools instead. Approved eye protection should be worn when using the 1016, and the handles must be closed to lock the blade before use.

It locks. The TripSaver uses a locking "L" handle that snaps into an "L" channel, holding the fully opened blade or implement in place while you cut or drive. You have to close the handles to engage that lock before use, so build the habit before you lean on the drywall saw.

Closed length is 5.75 inches (14.6 cm), which is also its overall length, and it weighs 15.2 oz (431 g). That is a belt-pouch or bag tool rather than a pocket knife, and it ships with a nylon pouch for carry.

It includes a 1/4-inch socket adapter, so you can run 1/4-inch drive sockets off the tool. The driving bits themselves are built in: #1 and #2 Phillips hex bits plus small-slotted and large-slotted hex bits. It is not a replacement for a full bit driver set, but it covers device screws and cover plates without going back to the van.

The 1016 includes a drywall saw blade, which handles cutting in a single device box or enlarging an opening. For long runs or repeated rough-in cuts, a dedicated jab saw with a full-length blade is faster and less tiring. Treat the TripSaver's saw as the one you always have on you, not the one you spec for a drywall package.

The 1016 includes locking knife blades, including a 2-1/2 inch trailing point, and Klein advises checking local law on the legality of selling, carrying, or possessing this knife. Rules vary by state and municipality, and some facilities, schools and airports, for example, restrict blades regardless of local law. Check before you add it to a crew kit.

The 1016 is made from high-carbon, rust-resistant stainless steel, so it holds up better than plain carbon steel in a damp truck box or on outdoor maintenance rounds. Rust-resistant is not rust-proof, so wipe it down after wet work.

Order it as Klein Tools model 1016, manufacturer part number 1016, the TripSaver multi-tool.