This Compact, Clever, Kickstarter-Crushing EDC Tool Can Take My Money

Given the fact this gadget is at once elegantly engineered, fidget friendly and hugely handy, what’s not to love?

Close-up of a black bicycle rear derailleur mechanism with a matte finish.

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Last fall I found myself positively smitten with Titaner’s EDC Ratchet System, which is so smartly engineered and priced, it raised nearly $600,000 on Kickstarter.

This summer brings a titanium-powered alternative that is pretty compelling in its own regard.

Compact silver multi-bit screwdriver set with bits stored inside two metal cases and a detachable ratchet handle on a black surface. — This image is a bit confusing until you realize it simply shows *two* TiNexus units, one all folded up and one partially opened and ready to deploy.

Rather than simply dupe what worked so well for Titaner, Hong Kong-based Comandi’s new TiNexus blazes its own trail with a uniquely streamlined design.

In some ways, it offers even more for less, which helps explain why it is on a pretty bonkers crowdfunding run (over $112,000 raised with nearly two weeks to go) of its own.

Battle of bits

Roughly the size and shape of a pack of cigarettes, the TiNexus packs the capability of a typical ratchet (including a built-in direction selector) while coming in much smaller and lighter.

Compact gray multi-tool with screwdriver bits and a keyring held in an open hand against a black background. — Small enough for a pocket, the TiNexus may be a bit hefty for that storage spot. However, it can easily slip into just about any backpack or bag, to be forgotten all about until you need it.

Of the total package weight of 11.7 ounces (in tough, corrosion-resistant titanium) or 8.5 ounces (in wallet-friendly aluminum), the ratchet itself makes up just 1.13 ounces, just over half of a full-size one.

Even more notable is the fact that its 72-tooth mechanism requires a swing of just 5 degrees to engage the next tooth.

TiNexus EDC Ratchet System action — Behold the magic of the ratchet, which lets you drive a screw by twisting a wrist, without ever repositioning your hand.

That’s just one degree bigger than Titaner’s 4 degrees, and a third of the traditional 15-degree swing arc you’ll find on classic ratchets.

That makes a big difference when you’re working in tight spaces, as you’ll need less than half an inch of clearance to operate.

TiNexus EDC Ratchet System bit storage — The TiNexus boasts one of the most elegant and efficient bit storage setups I’ve ever seen.

Equally impressive at a glance is the built-in bit storage, whereby two foldable plates accommodate a total of 20 standard quarter-inch bits, all held neatly in place by the power of magnets.

According to the TiNexus Kickstarter page, the “included matrix will cover 97% of daily life,” but you can also swap in your own specialized implements if desired.

TiNexus L-Mode (High-Torque Ratchet) — In L-Mode, the TiNexus offers both reach and torque for working in semi-tight spaces.

Adding to the capability, an integrated extender shifts the torque transfer point 1.8 inches forward while offering two different configurations to tackle the task at hand.

L-Mode locks at a 90-degree angle, offering higher leverage when it is required, while I-mode straightens things out, effectively transforming the tool into a screwdriver with extended reach.

TiNexus I-Mode (Axial Screwdriver) — In I-mode, the TiNexus holds the bit on the opposite end, essentially becoming a deep-reaching screwdriver.

In a whimsical, haptically satisfying touch, you tap the tool against your palm to release the extender from its magnetized storage slot, where it can snap back into place when the job is done.

Availability and pricing

The TiNexus is available via Kickstarter at the Super Early Bird price of $199 for Titanium (left) and $119 for Aluminum (right). Estimated delivery is September.

Two silver multi-tool kits with various foldable tools and a compact rectangular design.

TiNexus EDC Ratchet System

Starts at $119

About the Author:

Now managing editor, Steve has served in a variety of roles with GP since 2019. Having previously written and edited for such publications as Men’s Health, Men’s Journal, Esquire and ESPN, he enjoys covering a range of topics — but mostly those pertaining to cycling, snow sports, pocket knives and motos — and dreams of a utopian world in which everyone’s bike seat is at the proper height.

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