Leave it to a company that created Oragami inspired fenders to rethink the multi tool. Normally a brick shaped object like a Swiss Army knife on steroids, most multi tools offer a number of different tools, but whether they’re useful or not is another story. Rather than building all of the features into one tool, Full Windsor started with the basics and went from there. Essentially a tire lever or 15mm box end wrench with upgrades, the Nutter proves to be every bit as good in reality as it did on paper.
Crack the nut after the break.
Offered for £39.99 (~$63.50 + $11-$20 shipping to the US), the Nutter includes the tool, a number of bits including an extension, and the carrying pouch which is made from leather and recycled inner tubes. Using the included bits you’ll be able to adjust 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8mm hex bolts, T25 Torx, and phillips and flat head screws. Keeping everything nice and snug, the well made carrying pouch is a tight fit for all of the parts but that might keep you from losing them in the long run. Brown not your style? The case is available in black as well.
You have two options when it comes to using the bits – either with the extension or without. The bit socket in the tool is magnetized which keeps the bits or extension in place quite well, though it does create slight play in the tool with everything assembled. The Nutter also includes two magnetized bit holders in the body of the tool if you want to go without the pouch. Again, the magnets hold quite well but will break loose with a big enough jolt – just make sure your bag is zipped and you’ll be fine.
While it is possible to run into some interference issues (certain seat post saddle clamps come to mind), the Nutter is much better than most multi tools when it comes to actually using the tool. The long extension lets you reach tight places, and the handle provides plenty of leverage. Maybe too much – if you find yourself towards the ham-fisted side of the mechanic scale be careful when using it on carbon parts.
The spoke wrench is similar to a Red Park .136 spoke wrench, but not quite as precise. It will get you out of a jam, but I wouldn’t go truing your wheels with it on a regular basis.
One of the biggest selling points of the Nutter is the 15mm box end wrench for axle nuts, hence the name. One of the more common sizes for both front and rear axle nuts, this feature could prove invaluable if you get a flat.
Once you get the wheel off, turn the Nutter around and use the nylon plastic tipped tire lever to fix the damage. The shape and design of the lever is quite good, and provided you only need one lever to remove your tire you’re golden. If you need two levers (or three) you can always carry an additional lever. Again, the large handle provides great leverage for removing stubborn tires and the plastic tip won’t hurt your rims.
Obviously, you can stash the pouch in your bag or jersey pocket, but it’s also designed to hang nicely from your saddle or top tube. When mounting to the saddle you can either use the rails, or bag slots like the Brooks B17 here if you have them.
The full package weighs in at 225g. If you want to go minimalistic, the lever body and three bits like a 4,5, and 6mm here weigh 125g.
Before anyone starts to worry that someone made a multi tool without a bottle opener – don’t worry. They have that covered too.
So the Nutter seems like a winner, any downsides? Well, if you’re prone to dropping things we can easily see bits getting lost in the woods or down a sewer, and the whole package is certainly bigger than your standard multi tool. However, the improvements in functionality seem like they are well worth any draw backs. Furthermore, since the bits are a standard size you can find replacements at most hardware stores and even customize the bits you carry if needed. Ultimately, the Nutter comes highly recommended – especially if you need a 15mm wrench.