Axiom Corker 10-function mini tool

Axiom's Corker has a couple of functions that other multitools miss, adding to the usual collection of Allen keys and screwdrivers a bottle opener and a corkscrew. Cheers!

For most cyclists, the ability to crack open a bottle of beer or uncork a bottle of Burgundy whenever you're out on the bike is a nice bonus. For touring cyclists who like a drink, it means one thing less to pack, especially if the tour is through France, Spain, Italy, California, Australia or Chile. For while there are Leathermans and Victorinox Swiss Army knives with corkscrews, I can't think of another bike tool with one.

As well as the bottle opener and corkscrew, you get 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5 and 6mm Allen keys, and two screwdrivers: a #2 Phillips, which will suit most bike applications (and many DIY jobs); and a flat-head with a 5mm tip.

The most efficient multitool is the one that gives you all the tools you do need for your bike and none that you don't. This Corker's mix of tools is good but I missed a chain tool. Axiom have that covered with the Corker Deluxe, which for an extra £6 and 63g adds a chain tool (like the one on a Carradice 11-in-1, which works okay), a T25 Torx bit (useful for disc brakes), and an 8mm Allen key.

The Corker's tools are made of properly hard chrome vanadium steel with brass plating. The rosewood side panels are darkly stained. I couldn't really care less about this styling, but at least it won't show the dirt as obviously. The wooden side panels are comfortable in the hand too. It feels sturdy, so you're unlikely to have to call upon the lifetime warranty.

At 72 x 39 x 19mm, it's small enough to fit in any pocket or saddlebag but isn't so small that you can't torque up bolts that need plenty of Newton metres, like single 6mm seatpost clamps. The bottle opener and corkscrew work okay, and even if you don't use them very often they're still infinitely more useful than, say, a fish scaler or that thing that gets objects out of horse's hooves.

Verdict

Drinking and bike tool essentials in one compact, sturdy package. Touring cyclists, raise your glasses!