Max Knives PA20S — Three-finger folding aluminium impact tool

Overview

The PA20S is the aluminium, three-finger take on the folding impact tool. It fits within 58 mm of length by 48 mm of height and stands just 5 mm thick, for a measured mass of 50 g. That lightness comes straight from the chosen metal, aluminium, and from the slim profile. Three rings of 25 mm take the fingers and spread the grip across the width of the hand, where one and two-finger models concentrate on a narrower zone.

Ring diameter, the measurement that decides

On a ringed object it is the inside diameter that settles whether the piece suits you, long before length or weight do. The 25 mm quoted here matches an adult finger of average build, middle and ring fingers included; above that the ring squeezes, below it the ring floats and the grip loses precision. Finger size takes seconds to measure with a strip of paper and a ruler: take the circumference, divide it by 3.14 and you have your diameter. That is the check to run before choosing between this model, the PA2A2 at 26 mm or the PA29 at 27 mm.

Technical specifications

Three-finger folding impact tool, aluminium body. Dimensions 58 x 48 mm, thickness 5 mm. Weight 50 g. Ring diameter 25 mm. The folding construction lets the piece close on itself for storage. It is one of the two hinged models in the selection alongside the titanium PA20B, and the lighter of the two formats for which the shop publishes a mass.

Care

Aluminium takes water without flinching: mild soap, a rinse, a full dry and the job is done. As on any hinged object, attention goes to the axis: dust it regularly so the piece keeps folding without a stiff spot, and use only thin oil, in very small amounts, so the pivot does not turn into a dust trap. A soft cloth keeps the surface clean without scratching it.

Legal notice. Impact tools are restricted or prohibited in a number of countries and are frequently refused in aircraft cabin baggage. Check the law that applies where the order is delivered before purchasing.