From Syndrome comes the Phantom Mini Tool. Since the days of the original Elephant Key, which was pretty crappy, skaters have wanted a decent portable skate tool. The Phantom is a rare original design for an old tool. The Phantom Mini Tool isn’t exactly the answer, but it’s still better than an Elephant Key. Basically a set of sockets in a plastic case, the Phantom has the advantage of being smaller in overall perceived volume. The problem in the field is that it’s a pain in the ass to keep all the little parts together. Disappointingly, the Phantom makes use of the same crappy Phillips head/Allen wrench combo that appears to be forged from old Chevy Monzas in the same budget plant where everyone else gets theirs. It works on a brand new set up, but quickly becomes chewed up if you put it to use in everyday conditions. The rest of the tools work well enough except there is always a problem with worn trucks and kingpins, and the well isn’t deep enough to tighten to some preferences. What seems like a good idea can quickly become irritating when you are fumbling around with all the little parts. Nobody likes to assemble a tool just so they can start using it. It may fit into a small footprint, but it is still too bulky to carry around in your pocket unless you are into MC Hammer. The Phantom Mini Tool may have a place in your emergency rations and Hurricane/Tornado survival kit, but it’s not so good for everyday use.
Online Action: syndromedist.com
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