The True Utilities HandSpan is a compact adjustable wrench that can be carried on your keyring. As if that wasn’t enough, there’s also a hex screwdriver bit holder built into one end! This seems like a great tool for EDC or minimalist tool kits.
If you’ve had to sit through an episode of Bob the Builder, you probably already know that the British call a wrench a spanner. So why did it take me so long to figure out why True Utilities called their keychain wrench multi-tool the HandSpan?!
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This minuscule multi-tool packs a lot of functionality into its small body: an adjustable wrench, calipers that can be used to make outside and diameter measurements, and two screwdriver bits. It measures approximately 2″ by 2-5/16″ thick. And since it’s made from stainless steel, the HandySpan should be somewhat corrosion resistant.
To get all this utility in such a small tool, the adjustable wrench works double duty as a set of calipers. To use the calipers you just read the inch or millimeter scales etched into either side of the wrench as you tighten the knurled nut. The HandSpan has a fastener and measurement capacity of 0 to 3/4″ (0-20mm).
The HandSpan comes with a plastic keyring attachment that the tool locks around for carrying. When you need to use the tool, simply open the jaws with the knurled thumbwheel as you would during use.
The plastic keyring attachment also provides storage spaces for the included Phillips and slotted screwdriver bits. When you need to use either of the bits, they can be removed from the plastic carrier and inserted into in the hex-shaped bit holder recess along the edge of the tool.
Although they don’t specify the size, it looks like the HandSpan is compatible with industry-standard 1/4″ hex screwdriver bits.
For those of us who loath blister packing, True Utilities packages the tool in a nice resealable plastic (styrene) case. So, if you end up tossing the HandSpan into a the junk drawer with all the other multi-tools you don’t use, at least you have a nice case to repurpose.
As the HandSpan is an imported tool, there are only a limited number of ways you can get it in the US. You can purchase it from fruggo and they’ll ship it to the US for ~$19 plus ~$6.50 shipping. If you are lucky enough to have a Duluth Trading Company store nearby, you can pick it up in-store for around $22. Unfortunately, Duluth Trading Company doesn’t carry the HandSpan online.
Update: Fruugo no longer sells this. The next lowest price online is ~$30 from Amazon with shipping. Can you find anywhere else that sells this?
Buy Now(via Amazon)
Buy Now (via fruugo)
More Info (HandSpan Website)
The HandSpan weighs 136 grams, or about 4.8 ounces. This sounds heavy, but picking up the HandSpan package at my local Duluth Trading Company surprised me; even though I didn’t take it out of the package, it felt lighter than I thought it would.