Mini Flagship F12 from NEXTOOL

A versatile multitool is a convenient and efficient way to be prepared for any situation. NEXTOOL follows the Kaizen philosophy and continuously improves its multifunctional tools. This is evident in the latest product, the Mini Flagship F12. We tested the NEXTOOL Mini Flagship F12 on various household tasks and used it as an everyday carry (EDC) tool for spontaneous emergencies, where it proved to be very useful. 

Unlike full-size multitools, mini variants have to accommodate a limited number of high-quality tools instead of maximizing quantity. The Mini Flagship F12 is the perfect choice here, as it offers a balanced mix of quality and quantity. NEXTOOL lists the following features: needle-nose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutter, glow-in-the-dark block, bottle opener, metal file, clip, ruler, knife, Phillips screwdriver, flat-head screwdriver, hanging hole, scissors. The locking tools should be especially highlighted. The knife and the file have a lock on the frame, which is not common in most small tools.

As frame material, NEXTOOL uses 20Cr13 steel for the Mini Flagship F12. This steel offers a balanced combination of good corrosion resistance, high hardenability, and economical material costs. In its closed state, the Mini Flagship F12 has compact dimensions of 65 × 27 × 17 mm.

The standout feature is the (relatively) huge scissors. These folding double scissors have been seen more frequently lately, and they are absolutely sensible in a mini tool. 

The Mini Flagship F12 features a serrated edge that resembles that of medical scissors. This should significantly enhance the cutting performance. Additionally, the blades are curved, which further facilitates cutting. The scissors are made of 5Cr15Mov steel.

Tests confirmed the improvement: the scissors effortlessly cut through cardboard, strap material, and even through a double-layered, sturdy packing tape. 

The pliers also deserve praise, as they are a bit narrow but provide a good grip for their size. The plier head is made of 420J steel and is sturdily designed. The tool has long needle-nose pliers, a special pin grip, and a wire cutter, which, however, is likely only suitable for soft wires at this size. Fortunately, both the pliers and scissors are spring-loaded.

The fencing wire, which had a thickness of 3.8 mm, could be easily worked with the Mini Flagship F12.

The knife is made from 8CR14MoV steel. With a blade length of 43 mm, it is not outstanding for its size but has a decent edge that allows for good carving of sticks. 8CR14MoV steel is extremely easy and quick to sharpen and is tough. The hardness of this tool steel is 57–59 HRC. This should allow the blade steel to withstand the demands of use. 

Furthermore, it feels good in the hand and provides a sense of security when handling it. 

The knife features a liner-lock mechanism and a ball bearing for the locking mechanism. This ensures a safer and smoother opening and closing. 

With a weight of only 76 g and dimensions of 65 x 27 x 17 mm (closed), this flagship fits perfectly in your pocket, coin, or watch pocket. For better carrying comfort, a loop ring for a lanyard is attached to the removable pocket clip. However, if the clip is removed, the ring can also be taken off.

NEXTOOL also offers a belt pouch as an accessory.

As with most small tools, you have to fiddle a bit with your fingernails to get them out, but it is not too difficult.

Especially interesting is the "Glow in the Dark" luminescent block on the Mini Flagship F12. This tool is easy to find in a dark bag and immediately signals to the user that the scissors are located here.

The Phillips screwdriver has a 2.5D head, which features a special shape that allows access to hard-to-reach places.

Although it does not have a full 3D head, it is completely sufficient in an emergency. On the back of the tool, there is a division in centimeters and inches.

The filing surface itself has a gripping texture and features one side for cross cuts, one side for longitudinal cuts, as well as an integrated metal saw. The tip is cleverly shaped and can be used as a flat screwdriver and possibly even as a light crowbar. It is also equipped with a locking mechanism now.

NEXTOOL has thought of everything and integrated the essential tools into the Mini Flagship F12. Cheers!

CONCLUSION

The Mini Flagship F12 from NEXTOOL is a versatile multitool that, thanks to its unique design, offers significantly higher leverage than other models. It is compact, making it easy to carry around. The pliers are very helpful for their size, and the scissors are also practical. The other tools are likewise useful and of high quality. The knife is sharp. Given the low price and the quality offered, this set is a top recommendation for anyone who wants to have a small tool with the most important utensils always at hand. The Mini Flagship F12 is designed to be suitable for both left- and right-handed users and feels pleasantly comfortable in the hand.

In the NEXTOOL Store and at retailers carrying the brand, the Mini Flagship F12 is available in blue, black, silver, and khaki. The price is 30 euros.

NEXTOOL online