The James Brand is stepping further into multi-tool territory with the Helton, a compact nine-function tool designed to offer plenty of utility without becoming bulky.
Gear Patrol got an early look at the Helton, which launches on August 25 for $169. It is The James Brand’s first full-sized, fully featured pocket multi-tool, putting it much closer to a Swiss Army Knife or Leatherman than the company’s smaller EDC tools.
Closed, the Helton measures just 3.5 inches long and uses 6061 aircraft-grade aluminium scales with rounded edges and a machined grip pattern. The test model weighed 3.42 ounces, or around 97g, making it relatively easy to carry in a pocket.
Open it up and the Helton packs nine reported functions across four folding implements. There is a 2.5-inch partially serrated VG-10 blade and a pair of spring-loaded scissors, with the remaining tools combining a bottle opener with a Phillips screwdriver and a flathead screwdriver with a file. Each folding implement also gets its own liner lock.
A removable pair of tweezers slots into the handle, and The James Brand includes a toothpick and lanyard as well. The low-profile pocket clip can also be removed, giving buyers a little flexibility in how they carry it.
Styling follows the same direction as the recently updated Elko and Ellis, with aluminum scales and rounded contours keeping the Helton closer to a premium pocket knife than a traditional hardware-heavy multi-tool. That fits neatly with The James Brand’s wider focus on modern, minimalist everyday carry.
During testing, it proved easier to carry than a typical Leatherman and tougher in use than a conventional Swiss Army Knife, although some wear began to show on the handle finish.
The Helton gives you more to work with than a standard pocket knife without going full toolbox. And honestly, that could be exactly why it works so well for everyday carry.