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About the Product
The SOG PowerAccess Assist aims for everyday usefulness with outside-access tools and assisted opening, plus SOG’s Compound Leverage pliers for extra grip force. In testing, it packs 21 functions and a center-axis bit driver, but skips common staples like scissors and a file. Reviewers also note some drawbacks for speed and safety—occasional tool “clumping,” stiff detents, and intermittent lock engagement—so it’s capable but not the quickest multi-tool to deploy. At 10.7 oz (0.303 kg) it’s heavier and bulkier than many belt-carry options, though the extra mass helps when squeezing the pliers.
For durability, SOG uses 5Cr15MoV (~55–57 HRC): corrosion-resistant and easy to maintain, with edge retention that’s fine for utility cuts but not premium-steel territory. The stonewashed finish hides wear better than black oxide, which tends to show scratches sooner. Fixability is mixed: standard hex/Allen screws make cleaning and adjustments straightforward, yet SOG’s policy warns that disassembly voids the warranty, and consumer spare parts aren’t offered.
On warranty, SOG advertises lifetime coverage for defects, and claims are handled via an online form. However, for multi-tools the warranty focuses on the handles and pliers—individual implements are excluded—and you’ll pay inbound shipping. If you value corrosion resistance, strong plier force, and a bit-driver-heavy loadout over scissor/file utility and pocket weight, this is a solid, long-lasting choice.
About SOG
Founded in the 1980s and named after the U.S. military’s Studies and Observation Group, SOG built its reputation on tools designed for professional use in the field. The brand emphasizes durability and reliability, offering a lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Its knives and multi-tools are marketed as “mission-ready” and “purpose-built,” reflecting a focus on dependable performance rather than trend-driven design.
In recent years, SOG has undergone a major reboot, with independent reviewers noting improved build quality and better materials in its XR Lock and LTE product lines. While some long-time enthusiasts still view SOG as a “brand in flux,” the newer models have earned renewed respect for their solid construction and practical design across different price points.
Today, SOG operates under GSM Outdoors, a large U.S.-based outdoor gear company. That backing provides corporate stability and the resources to maintain support for its products, though ownership changes have introduced some uncertainty about long-term direction. Overall, SOG appears focused on regaining trust through more consistent quality and by reinforcing its identity around tough, long-lasting tools built for real-world use.