What is your ultimate 'never let you down' object?
May 27, 2013 8:45 AM Subscribe
What is the item you own that is completely 'fit and forget'? What is the thing in your life which needs the least minuscule amount of attention, upgrades, tweaking, watering, oiling, sharpening, and so on? It performs 100% and you can utterly rely on its metronomic efficiency. Consulting the hive mind for recommended products you use which do their job and do it well all the time.
Your go to thing that, y'know, just works... Every Single Time.
Ideally the object will be simple and cost-effective, even free if you like. I am really looking for bang for the buck quality and performance.
Disclaimer: I'm not interested in items that are of high quality because you specifically paid for that quality. That is kind of cheating in this context and wil be dubiously frowned upon.
My question originates from:
1. Noticing two products I acquired recently that have just worked as advertised, consistently (A pair of Adidas running shoes and a Casio watch). I am both impressed by that and confounded by the thought that we live in a world of goods and services where simply functioning correctly every time should be considered a feature.
2. The fact that i would like to spend less time updating, checking, cleaning, winding-up, reseting, folding… things! And more time eating pizza and watching sports.
So what is your ultimate never let you down object?
Ideally the object will be simple and cost-effective, even free if you like. I am really looking for bang for the buck quality and performance.
Disclaimer: I'm not interested in items that are of high quality because you specifically paid for that quality. That is kind of cheating in this context and wil be dubiously frowned upon.
My question originates from:
1. Noticing two products I acquired recently that have just worked as advertised, consistently (A pair of Adidas running shoes and a Casio watch). I am both impressed by that and confounded by the thought that we live in a world of goods and services where simply functioning correctly every time should be considered a feature.
2. The fact that i would like to spend less time updating, checking, cleaning, winding-up, reseting, folding… things! And more time eating pizza and watching sports.
So what is your ultimate never let you down object?
My Leatherman Juice. It has both flat and Phillips-head screwdrivers, knife, scissors, pliers, nail file, and a tiny screwdriver or two. I know it has other things, but I use it quite often.
posted by SillyShepherd at 9:04 AM on May 27, 2013 [2 favorites]
posted by SillyShepherd at 9:04 AM on May 27, 2013 [2 favorites]
Mod note: Folks, please make an effort to answer in the spirit of the question or move on.
posted by cortex (staff) at 9:05 AM on May 27, 2013
posted by cortex (staff) at 9:05 AM on May 27, 2013
My Swing-A-Way can opener. After having so many can opener failures in the past, I can't believe I didn't buy a Swing-A-Way, like the one my mom has had for my entire life, to begin with.
posted by ohmy at 9:06 AM on May 27, 2013 [6 favorites]
posted by ohmy at 9:06 AM on May 27, 2013 [6 favorites]
This may be cheating a bit, but I'm going to nominate my phone (Galaxy Note 2). Yeah, I have to charge it every night, and every now and then it crashes and I have to restart it. But when I compare the maintenance involved to the amount of maintenance I'd have to put in on all the things it replaces - a landline phone, a music player and CDs, a shelf full of books, an array of paper maps for the car, a recipe book, an address book, a day planner, a camera, a photo album, even a computer in a pinch, I could go on and on - it's no contest that this one device has simplified my life enormously.
posted by payoto at 9:07 AM on May 27, 2013 [2 favorites]
posted by payoto at 9:07 AM on May 27, 2013 [2 favorites]
Oh, also, my Jansport backpack! It lasted years of heavy use until I hung it up on a wall heater and the plastic melted. (yeah, yeah...)
posted by threeants at 9:08 AM on May 27, 2013 [2 favorites]
posted by threeants at 9:08 AM on May 27, 2013 [2 favorites]
I've had two Swing-A-Ways that have failed me....just putting it out there....
If we're talking can-openers - President's Choice has a great hand-held one. Opens like a dream, stainless steel and sturdy. I don't know where you live, but you can find them in Canada at any grocery store that sells President's Choice (No Frills, Zehrs, Fortinos, Superstore, Loblaws, etc).
I was actually coming in to say my Swingline stapler --I have a red one, just like Milton's in the movie Office Space, and at work I have one in black. I have never found such an awesome stapler - it never jams, and always punches through all the pages. Worth the investment.
posted by MeatheadBrokeMyChair at 9:12 AM on May 27, 2013
If we're talking can-openers - President's Choice has a great hand-held one. Opens like a dream, stainless steel and sturdy. I don't know where you live, but you can find them in Canada at any grocery store that sells President's Choice (No Frills, Zehrs, Fortinos, Superstore, Loblaws, etc).
I was actually coming in to say my Swingline stapler --I have a red one, just like Milton's in the movie Office Space, and at work I have one in black. I have never found such an awesome stapler - it never jams, and always punches through all the pages. Worth the investment.
posted by MeatheadBrokeMyChair at 9:12 AM on May 27, 2013
ok, I have a few
Surplus Mauser rifles turned into hunting rifles (after being modified to use modern rifle cartridges). They always fire, require a minimum of cleaning and are accurate.
Leatherman Skeletool. Most multitools are tough and durable but this one is also small and light enough to carry everday in my pocket and that makes it much more useful than bigger ones that have more attachments/tools.
Logitech washable keyboard. Most keyboards are either filthy or require tedious cleaning to make not filthy and break a lot. This thing is built so you just run it under the sink every so often and its like new again.
Honda cars from the 90's. I have never had any cars that were easier to maintain and required so little maintenance and repair. This is a sweet spot for Honda's after they perfected port fuel injection and building small lightweight cars that handled well. After this the models got bigger, heavier and more complicated. They are still built as well, but more stuff means more stuff to break and maintain.
posted by bartonlong at 9:13 AM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
Surplus Mauser rifles turned into hunting rifles (after being modified to use modern rifle cartridges). They always fire, require a minimum of cleaning and are accurate.
Leatherman Skeletool. Most multitools are tough and durable but this one is also small and light enough to carry everday in my pocket and that makes it much more useful than bigger ones that have more attachments/tools.
Logitech washable keyboard. Most keyboards are either filthy or require tedious cleaning to make not filthy and break a lot. This thing is built so you just run it under the sink every so often and its like new again.
Honda cars from the 90's. I have never had any cars that were easier to maintain and required so little maintenance and repair. This is a sweet spot for Honda's after they perfected port fuel injection and building small lightweight cars that handled well. After this the models got bigger, heavier and more complicated. They are still built as well, but more stuff means more stuff to break and maintain.
posted by bartonlong at 9:13 AM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
On my keychain, there is a screwdriver like this one. I don't know how much it cost or how old it is, because before it was on my keychain it was on my grandfather's keychain. It still fits most screws.
posted by snorkmaiden at 9:20 AM on May 27, 2013 [4 favorites]
posted by snorkmaiden at 9:20 AM on May 27, 2013 [4 favorites]
My Sonicare toothbrush. Mine is ancient but still works like it did the day I got it.
A pair of shoes by Bjorn (the style I have is discontinued). There is virtually no wear on them after at least 12 years of steady, frequent use.
Brooks Brothers button-down pinpoint Oxford wrinkle free shirts. The best dress shirts I've ever owned.
posted by Unified Theory at 9:22 AM on May 27, 2013 [2 favorites]
A pair of shoes by Bjorn (the style I have is discontinued). There is virtually no wear on them after at least 12 years of steady, frequent use.
Brooks Brothers button-down pinpoint Oxford wrinkle free shirts. The best dress shirts I've ever owned.
posted by Unified Theory at 9:22 AM on May 27, 2013 [2 favorites]
This nail clipper. Everyone in my family has one. We love them SO hard.
posted by julthumbscrew at 9:23 AM on May 27, 2013 [2 favorites]
posted by julthumbscrew at 9:23 AM on May 27, 2013 [2 favorites]
Timex watch-- I think I've needed to replace the band once because of roughhousing and the battery twice in five years. It's been hiking, to fancy parties, snorkeling....
posted by jetlagaddict at 9:26 AM on May 27, 2013
posted by jetlagaddict at 9:26 AM on May 27, 2013
I have yet a third can opener choice. This awesome little device locks closed when it isn't being used making it seem to take up a disproportionately small part of the utensil drawer AND it locks onto the can, so you don't have to grip the handles to force it to hang on. The Oxo locking Opener is super easy, even for someone with arthritis in their hands
posted by arnicae at 9:26 AM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by arnicae at 9:26 AM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
My Braun electric toothbrush is at least 8 years old and works as well today as it did the day it was brand-new.
posted by elizardbits at 9:27 AM on May 27, 2013
posted by elizardbits at 9:27 AM on May 27, 2013
iPod Nano
Maglight mini
Rainbow Sandals
MSR WhisperLight
posted by nickrussell at 9:30 AM on May 27, 2013
Maglight mini
Rainbow Sandals
MSR WhisperLight
posted by nickrussell at 9:30 AM on May 27, 2013
Uniball Vision Micro Rollerball 0.5mm.
Writes beautifully every time. Never dies before the ink is done.
posted by 256 at 9:30 AM on May 27, 2013 [8 favorites]
Writes beautifully every time. Never dies before the ink is done.
posted by 256 at 9:30 AM on May 27, 2013 [8 favorites]
Thermarest camping mattresses. We have one that's got to be approaching 30 years old and another that's probably at least 15 or 20. I have no idea whether the newer Thermarests are still as good, but these have been on many camping and backpacking trips and they still do their job beautifully.
posted by Redstart at 9:51 AM on May 27, 2013
posted by Redstart at 9:51 AM on May 27, 2013
I don't know the model, but I look to my right and see a Leatherman tool someone gave me in 1986. It is amazing. I mostly use one blade, have never sharpened it and it remains quite sharp after 27 freakin' years.
posted by ambient2 at 10:04 AM on May 27, 2013
posted by ambient2 at 10:04 AM on May 27, 2013
Boker.
Passed down 2 gens, going strong would be an understatement.
posted by Kruger5 at 10:15 AM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
Passed down 2 gens, going strong would be an understatement.
posted by Kruger5 at 10:15 AM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
This $6 jar opener. I have an old injury to my wrist that gets irritated if I even look like I'm going to try to unscrew a jar lid by force. This thing pops the seal instantly and the jars open like magic.
posted by Serene Empress Dork at 10:32 AM on May 27, 2013
posted by Serene Empress Dork at 10:32 AM on May 27, 2013
I bought a Timex Ironman watch in 1991. Went through multiple bands and a few batteries. Finally had to replace it last year once all of the buttons had fallen off and could no longer use the stopwatch or re-set the time.
posted by pescadero at 10:35 AM on May 27, 2013
posted by pescadero at 10:35 AM on May 27, 2013
This slow cooker is really great. Sometimes I prepare things the night before and stash the crock part in the fridge. The programmable timer is simple to use. The locking lid is very handy for transporting food, though not exactly spill-proof. Just overall, it's solid and reliable. I've used it several times a week for the last year and it's still going strong. I'd still be using its predecessor, which I had for two or three years, but I left it at my mother's house and decided to let her have it.
posted by houseofdanie at 10:36 AM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by houseofdanie at 10:36 AM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
Nthing Leatherman tools. I've got a Freestyle CX that fits perfectly in the watch pocket of my jeans and a Squirt that lives on my keychain. Use one or the other of them nearly every day.
I've also got one of those pocket screwdrivers that snorkmaiden linked to above.
posted by islander at 10:43 AM on May 27, 2013
I've also got one of those pocket screwdrivers that snorkmaiden linked to above.
posted by islander at 10:43 AM on May 27, 2013
(Without the high-price disclaimer, I'd written my Cousances 28cm cast iron pan. That's an item they'll find back in an archeological dig-out hundred years from now, and will fry their chops on it right there at the camp fire.)
But okay. My SO owns an IKEA cast-iron budget skillet which she uses for pancakes. One of the best skillets I know, including all the classic high-end brands. Just rinse with warm water, nothing else required.
As a model train person, I must also mention the n-scale locomotives by the Japanese brand Kato, which in comparison with the stuff I grew up with can be called maintenance free, while not costing any more than other trains.
A Nikon F3 camera which I bought slightly worn and second hand in 1989, and which has been going strong ever since. The only tweaking it ever needed was more an issue of nerdy maintenance than critical: new paddings for the mirrors and new seals for the flap.
posted by Namlit at 10:45 AM on May 27, 2013
But okay. My SO owns an IKEA cast-iron budget skillet which she uses for pancakes. One of the best skillets I know, including all the classic high-end brands. Just rinse with warm water, nothing else required.
As a model train person, I must also mention the n-scale locomotives by the Japanese brand Kato, which in comparison with the stuff I grew up with can be called maintenance free, while not costing any more than other trains.
A Nikon F3 camera which I bought slightly worn and second hand in 1989, and which has been going strong ever since. The only tweaking it ever needed was more an issue of nerdy maintenance than critical: new paddings for the mirrors and new seals for the flap.
posted by Namlit at 10:45 AM on May 27, 2013
I've had the same bottle opener as a keychain for five years now. Sometimes I'll see a cool looking bottle opener keychain, but then I remember, "wait, I already have the coolest bottle opener keychain ever." Mine was a freebie given away by a hotel I stayed at in India. So I can't recommend a specific brand or anything. But they're good, simple, and always there if you find one you like.
My Osprey Kestrel backpack has been with me on three continents over the past two years. I don't think I'll ever buy another pack. It wasn't free, but it's one of the cheaper internal-frame travel packs out there.
Doc Martens.
Haviana flip flops. I have two pair, one of which is more than five years old. The pattern printed on the sole is wearing off but otherwise they look good as new.
posted by Sara C. at 11:04 AM on May 27, 2013 [2 favorites]
My Osprey Kestrel backpack has been with me on three continents over the past two years. I don't think I'll ever buy another pack. It wasn't free, but it's one of the cheaper internal-frame travel packs out there.
Doc Martens.
Haviana flip flops. I have two pair, one of which is more than five years old. The pattern printed on the sole is wearing off but otherwise they look good as new.
posted by Sara C. at 11:04 AM on May 27, 2013 [2 favorites]
Doc Martens. I've resoled my pair five times now, they're getting on twelve years old and the leather is still good, even if they're patched together with gaffer tape. Which segues into...
Gaffer tape! Go-to tape for fixing things on the fly without sticky duct-tape residue.
Duct-tape, for things that need sticky duct-tape power.
Climbing tape, because this has never let me down in terms of protecting soft skin from scrapes. I just like tape, apparently.
Hi-Tec-C pens. I will cry like a child the day these are discontinued, and will possibly contemplate flying to Japan just to buy refills if that ever happens.
My grandfather's old bone comb. Forty years and it's still in perfect shape.
My Midori leather notebook.
I have an old, old Nokia handheld tri-band mobile (the candybar style ones) that still works after seven years. Just recharge, pop in a sim card and it'll work on 80% of the planet. It looks like hell but it's still ticking. An excellent choice for travel, as no one is remotely interested in stealing it.
posted by zennish at 11:25 AM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
Gaffer tape! Go-to tape for fixing things on the fly without sticky duct-tape residue.
Duct-tape, for things that need sticky duct-tape power.
Climbing tape, because this has never let me down in terms of protecting soft skin from scrapes. I just like tape, apparently.
Hi-Tec-C pens. I will cry like a child the day these are discontinued, and will possibly contemplate flying to Japan just to buy refills if that ever happens.
My grandfather's old bone comb. Forty years and it's still in perfect shape.
My Midori leather notebook.
I have an old, old Nokia handheld tri-band mobile (the candybar style ones) that still works after seven years. Just recharge, pop in a sim card and it'll work on 80% of the planet. It looks like hell but it's still ticking. An excellent choice for travel, as no one is remotely interested in stealing it.
posted by zennish at 11:25 AM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
Pentel Energel 0.7mm ball Metal Point pens. They're the only pens I've used for fifteen years. They don't dry out. They don't bleed through paper. They don't blob. They just work, no matter the temperature, the humidity or pressure.
posted by The Wrong Kind of Cheese at 11:26 AM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by The Wrong Kind of Cheese at 11:26 AM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
My 1999 base model Honda Civic
posted by dmt at 11:33 AM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by dmt at 11:33 AM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
My 20kg Rage Kettlebell
No maintenance, no gym membership required. Provides the means for a high impact, core strengthening workout anywhere, anytime.
posted by queue_strategy at 11:45 AM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
No maintenance, no gym membership required. Provides the means for a high impact, core strengthening workout anywhere, anytime.
posted by queue_strategy at 11:45 AM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
My Black and Decker Quick and Easy food processor. This is the third or fourth food processor I've had over about a span of 20-25 years. The others went a few years, then quit, but this one has gone on and on. I had to replace to bowl once, but the machine itself appears indestructible after years of hummus, pesto, peanut butter, and doughs of various kinds. I don't remember how much I paid for it, but it couldn't have been a lot, considering how cheap I am. ;)
posted by WorkingMyWayHome at 12:19 PM on May 27, 2013
posted by WorkingMyWayHome at 12:19 PM on May 27, 2013
I have a wallet which will shortly celebrate its 25th birthday. I motorcycle a lot so it has got soaked many times. It has been lost and recovered from a police station after it was handed in intact. It also prompted the proposal to my wife when I mislaid it and here serenity in the face of my panic made me realise I truly cannot live without her. The wife that is not the wallet.
posted by BenPens at 12:30 PM on May 27, 2013
posted by BenPens at 12:30 PM on May 27, 2013
For my hen night I got some joke "housewife" presents like clothes pegs, glittery dustpan and brush etc. Most are in a cupboard somewhere but one I use all the time is a cheese grater like this with a plastic container underneath. It's such an obvious idea but genius. It's easier to grate the cheese (or whatever you're using) as it sits flat so you're not doing the vertical motion that means you tilt it and it slips when you're doing it too hard (just me?). And it keeps all the gratings together so it's mess free. Simple, cheap and enables the eating of cheese - I'm not sure how I lived without it.
posted by billiebee at 12:47 PM on May 27, 2013
posted by billiebee at 12:47 PM on May 27, 2013
I bought a SwissGear backpack after seeing MANY of my colleagues carrying them. It has held up for three years of being stuffed over 20lbs full, thrown into the dirt, crammed into airplane carrying storage, etc etc etc and I expect it to last many times that long. I never clean it but somehow the dirt just... goes away. It is a miracle! And not a single zipper pull has broken (I find this to be a vanishingly rare incidence with luggage I buy, even expensive stuff)
posted by ista at 12:51 PM on May 27, 2013
posted by ista at 12:51 PM on May 27, 2013
It's not just the 90s Civics - I have a manual trans 2004 that I've owned for 7ish years and have spent ca. $2,500 on maintenance. The thing's a modern miracle and I adore it.
posted by AthenaPolias at 1:02 PM on May 27, 2013
posted by AthenaPolias at 1:02 PM on May 27, 2013
I like my MSR Whisperlite camping stove, because when it works, it works really well; but it was not exactly cheap and it has definitely let me down every now and then.
On the other hand, my Juwel 34 Sportkocher never has. It's cheap, clunky and has a ton of DDR charm. And it just works.
So the Juwel is my answer. If I could take only one stove, and my life (or at least my meals) would depend on it, I'd take the Juwel every time.
posted by Too-Ticky at 1:20 PM on May 27, 2013
On the other hand, my Juwel 34 Sportkocher never has. It's cheap, clunky and has a ton of DDR charm. And it just works.
So the Juwel is my answer. If I could take only one stove, and my life (or at least my meals) would depend on it, I'd take the Juwel every time.
posted by Too-Ticky at 1:20 PM on May 27, 2013
My 2005 Toyota Sienna has had zero problems. Turn the key and go every time. OTOH, my Seiko watch ran ok, but the case failed! So I bought another one and the it has the same problem with the plating on the case being just too wimpy.
posted by Cranberry at 2:05 PM on May 27, 2013
posted by Cranberry at 2:05 PM on May 27, 2013
Cast iron skillet - I have a Griswold cast iron skillet that I found at a yard sale for $2 over a decade ago and it took a little work at first to get it back in shape but now requires minimal effort to keep it perfect.
L.L.Bean Boat and Tote canvas bags. Several decades old and still look great. The color strip of fabric has frayed on a couple of them, but that's all.
Felco No. 2 pruners surely would be better with cleaning and sharpening, but I haven't done either for over ten years and have had no issues whatsoever.
Lutz 6-in-1 screwdriver. Nice to be able to grab one screwdriver and have it fit most things I need it for. Have used the large flathead side as a scraper in a pinch. I'm also a fan of Olfa Touch knifes and X-Acto knives.
Chaco sandals are great, but probably in the "you pay more for quality" category. Mine have held up forever, though. I also agree that Havaianas flip flops are pretty sturdy for rubber.
These "jam jar" glasses are incredibly durable and easy to clean. Crate & Barrel's Aspen dishes are also both durable and versatile, and I think turned out to be a really good value.
posted by belau at 2:13 PM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
L.L.Bean Boat and Tote canvas bags. Several decades old and still look great. The color strip of fabric has frayed on a couple of them, but that's all.
Felco No. 2 pruners surely would be better with cleaning and sharpening, but I haven't done either for over ten years and have had no issues whatsoever.
Lutz 6-in-1 screwdriver. Nice to be able to grab one screwdriver and have it fit most things I need it for. Have used the large flathead side as a scraper in a pinch. I'm also a fan of Olfa Touch knifes and X-Acto knives.
Chaco sandals are great, but probably in the "you pay more for quality" category. Mine have held up forever, though. I also agree that Havaianas flip flops are pretty sturdy for rubber.
These "jam jar" glasses are incredibly durable and easy to clean. Crate & Barrel's Aspen dishes are also both durable and versatile, and I think turned out to be a really good value.
posted by belau at 2:13 PM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
Response by poster: The camping / cooking responses have reminded me of a Trangia camp stove I have which is a very simple yet consistent item which will probably continue for years. Thanks for all the answers so far everyone...
posted by 0 answers at 2:19 PM on May 27, 2013
posted by 0 answers at 2:19 PM on May 27, 2013
I bought the lowest-end Kenmore sewing machine something like 35 years ago, have never done a thing to it except change the needle, and it still works fine whenever I need it. I never thought about how unusual that is for appliances until I saw this question.
posted by still_wears_a_hat at 2:28 PM on May 27, 2013
posted by still_wears_a_hat at 2:28 PM on May 27, 2013
Tweezerman tweezers
Braun electric toothbrush (the cheaper one, I think mine was $12)
Wicking workout t-shirts from Target
Marmot backpack
Cheap generic headlamp (though the name brand ones are more comfortable)
Prozac
posted by easy, lucky, free at 2:48 PM on May 27, 2013
Braun electric toothbrush (the cheaper one, I think mine was $12)
Wicking workout t-shirts from Target
Marmot backpack
Cheap generic headlamp (though the name brand ones are more comfortable)
Prozac
posted by easy, lucky, free at 2:48 PM on May 27, 2013
Magliner Gemini Jr convertible hand cart.
If your job involves moving things they are the best $500-700 you'll ever spend. Sturdy, great handling, lots of ways to customize to your needs. Your back will thank you in a few years.
posted by bradbane at 3:07 PM on May 27, 2013
If your job involves moving things they are the best $500-700 you'll ever spend. Sturdy, great handling, lots of ways to customize to your needs. Your back will thank you in a few years.
posted by bradbane at 3:07 PM on May 27, 2013
So what is your ultimate never let you down object?
Bash/egrep/awk
R
1986 Zeiss West Germany 10x40B T* binoculars
Brompton bicycle
posted by cromagnon at 3:59 PM on May 27, 2013
Bash/egrep/awk
R
1986 Zeiss West Germany 10x40B T* binoculars
Brompton bicycle
posted by cromagnon at 3:59 PM on May 27, 2013
Okay, this is utterly comical and bizarre, but after I sung its praises a few hours ago, my Sonicare toothbrush just died. Won't brush... won't charge... dead.
posted by Unified Theory at 4:29 PM on May 27, 2013 [9 favorites]
posted by Unified Theory at 4:29 PM on May 27, 2013 [9 favorites]
These Propét sneakers are my go-to travel companion and, also, good for everyday walking around. I often find them on sale for less than thirty bucks and they last a good long comfortable time, even with my wide Fred Flintstone-esque feet and odd gait. Annnd they have the toggle pull instead of laces which goes well with my stupid RA grip being stupid.
And I bought a huge bag of binder clips with different designs on them about two years ago at an office supply place for less than two bucks. I had no idea what I would do with them but I have used them in an infinite amount of ways in that time: to keep my electric blanket cord from annoying me when not in use, to keep my power cords in some sort of order, to clip closed my baking supplies, to hang my unmentionables to dry in my bedroom, etc.
posted by Merinda at 4:41 PM on May 27, 2013 [3 favorites]
And I bought a huge bag of binder clips with different designs on them about two years ago at an office supply place for less than two bucks. I had no idea what I would do with them but I have used them in an infinite amount of ways in that time: to keep my electric blanket cord from annoying me when not in use, to keep my power cords in some sort of order, to clip closed my baking supplies, to hang my unmentionables to dry in my bedroom, etc.
posted by Merinda at 4:41 PM on May 27, 2013 [3 favorites]
My Leatherman Micra keychain. Going on 7 years now.
My 2003 Toyota Corolla.
posted by His thoughts were red thoughts at 4:48 PM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
My 2003 Toyota Corolla.
posted by His thoughts were red thoughts at 4:48 PM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
My Dracaena houseplant. I've had it for ten years, it looks great, is happy with low light, and can easily go a month without watering.
Plus, it cleans the air in your house!
posted by exceptinsects at 5:03 PM on May 27, 2013 [3 favorites]
Plus, it cleans the air in your house!
posted by exceptinsects at 5:03 PM on May 27, 2013 [3 favorites]
Emerson CQC-7 Tanto blade knife. Best damn knife I have ever owned, built to be used as a tool.
Also my Arc'teryx Arro 22 backpack. 5 continents, 10 years, and innumerable days on a film sets being tossed around, and it's still the best pack I've ever owned.
posted by thirtyeightdown at 5:26 PM on May 27, 2013
Also my Arc'teryx Arro 22 backpack. 5 continents, 10 years, and innumerable days on a film sets being tossed around, and it's still the best pack I've ever owned.
posted by thirtyeightdown at 5:26 PM on May 27, 2013
Mentioned in the other thread but the Cool Tools blog is pretty much all about this.
posted by Morrigan at 5:35 PM on May 27, 2013 [4 favorites]
posted by Morrigan at 5:35 PM on May 27, 2013 [4 favorites]
Zyliss Garlic Press
Tweezerman tweezers
Braun electric toothbrush
Monoprice earphones
OXO Good Grips pepper grinder
OXO Good Grips can opener
OXO Good Grips Y peeler
Tangle Teezer brush
Len Denny crystal nail file
Shu Uemura eyelash curler
Pyrex glass bowls and casserole dishes
posted by EXISTENZ IS PAUSED at 7:01 PM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
Tweezerman tweezers
Braun electric toothbrush
Monoprice earphones
OXO Good Grips pepper grinder
OXO Good Grips can opener
OXO Good Grips Y peeler
Tangle Teezer brush
Len Denny crystal nail file
Shu Uemura eyelash curler
Pyrex glass bowls and casserole dishes
posted by EXISTENZ IS PAUSED at 7:01 PM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]
Nthing Tweezerman tweezers. I never knew how amazing tweezers could be (or how inferior my own were) until I got them.
Those and my Fiskars are my two current favorite reliable things. Yes, they are what I used in elementary school and yes, they are still amazing. They are small and do the job and I have several pairs stashed throughout my house. Haven't let me down yet.
posted by pitrified at 8:00 PM on May 27, 2013
Those and my Fiskars are my two current favorite reliable things. Yes, they are what I used in elementary school and yes, they are still amazing. They are small and do the job and I have several pairs stashed throughout my house. Haven't let me down yet.
posted by pitrified at 8:00 PM on May 27, 2013
A 30 year old Coleman Peak2 backpacking stove.
posted by Good Brain at 10:51 PM on May 27, 2013
posted by Good Brain at 10:51 PM on May 27, 2013
Sheaffer calligraphy pens. I have a selection of mid-80's through recent cheap Sheaffer calligraphy pens that just work, consistently and well. If they dry out, they're easy to revive and refill. The nibs don't catch or grind down and the caps and clips stay put. My preference is for the pre-Bic-takeover makes, but they all work fine.
The Waterman Phileas is a nice non-italic pen. Mine has worked perfectly for about ten years, and I am pretty hard on my pens. It's towards the low end of fountain pens, but the high-end ones I've used have really not been any better in any way other than aesthetics.
posted by blnkfrnk at 11:32 PM on May 27, 2013
The Waterman Phileas is a nice non-italic pen. Mine has worked perfectly for about ten years, and I am pretty hard on my pens. It's towards the low end of fountain pens, but the high-end ones I've used have really not been any better in any way other than aesthetics.
posted by blnkfrnk at 11:32 PM on May 27, 2013
That oxo pepper grinder is awesome; we gave purchased them for many many people all of whom agree that it just works, so much better than most other grinders
posted by dpx.mfx at 3:11 AM on May 28, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by dpx.mfx at 3:11 AM on May 28, 2013 [1 favorite]
For cyclists: Tioga Tarpaulin rear panniers. They are completely waterproof and have seen me through commuting, touring and even a couple of crashes. They just won't die. They cost about a third as much as the more popular Ortliebs, but they are every bit as functional.
One feature I really like is the extra flap over the top of the dry-bag style roller opening. This allows you to overload them if necessary yet still keep everything safe and dry. And of course, they have zero resale value so aren't really attractive to thieves. I'm quite happy to leave mine on the bike for short periods (with a thin cable lock through the catches), knowing it's unlikely anyone will put any effort into stealing them.
posted by embrangled at 4:00 AM on May 28, 2013
One feature I really like is the extra flap over the top of the dry-bag style roller opening. This allows you to overload them if necessary yet still keep everything safe and dry. And of course, they have zero resale value so aren't really attractive to thieves. I'm quite happy to leave mine on the bike for short periods (with a thin cable lock through the catches), knowing it's unlikely anyone will put any effort into stealing them.
posted by embrangled at 4:00 AM on May 28, 2013
I was just remarking to a friend that my Honda four-stroke rototiller has performed flawlessly for me. I use it maybe once or twice a year; each time it starts up and runs perfectly.
posted by Doohickie at 7:52 AM on May 28, 2013
posted by Doohickie at 7:52 AM on May 28, 2013
I have a mini Maglite that was given to me when I was 3 years old and a little bit afraid of the dark. I'm 27 and it still works great.
This nonstick frying pan - we've used it every day for 2 years and it doesn't have a single scratch; looks brand new. Pretty damn good for a frying pan, and it's not even overpriced.
Indestructible camping stove: MSR Pocket Rocket.
posted by Cygnet at 10:15 AM on May 28, 2013
This nonstick frying pan - we've used it every day for 2 years and it doesn't have a single scratch; looks brand new. Pretty damn good for a frying pan, and it's not even overpriced.
Indestructible camping stove: MSR Pocket Rocket.
posted by Cygnet at 10:15 AM on May 28, 2013
1. My SF-made Timbuk2 is 10-years old and still looks and performs like it's brand new. Not only that, but my daily carry Timbuk2 Hacker Laptop bag has seen an unbelievable amount of use and international travel and just refuses to give up the ghost. It's actually a problem because I want to get a new slightly larger laptop bag, but I can't because it's still in such great condition and performs so well.
2. My 2003 Honda Element EX. I've put 140K miles on the odometer, and outside of gas, oil changes and routine maintenance (new tires, brake pads, etc) it hasn't cost me a dime. It runs like a top. It's easily the most utilitarian vehicle I or anyone I know drives. My friends' jaws routinely drop when I fit everything from their full length couch, to a full sized dining room table in the back. Also, the tailgate makes for an excellent cooking/seating area when camping. And the floor and seat arrangement means it's easy to clean. It's a crime they stopped making them.
3. Le Creuset Enameled Dutch Oven- This is a daily use item that sees punishing conditions in my kitchen. Enameled cast iron is the way to go, just make sure to pick up the metal pot handle as the plastic one it ships with melts above 450 which means it's a no go for bread baking. Non-enameled cast iron can be tough to clean, and if not cared for properly a pain in the ass to season. I will say that I got a larger near identical dutch oven made by Kirkland (Costco's house brand, but it says made in France) that is just as good, and may even be holding up better, and it also comes with a stainless steel handle.
4. Filson Mackinaw Jacket, Vest and Jac-Shirt : In the past few years Filson has developed a mixed reputation with various buy outs and decisions to produce some stuff in China, but I can say with full authority that any of their American-made 18- or 24-oz virgin wool products are verifiably bomb proof (pilot's wear wool because it's non-flammable and non-conductive). I wear my Mackinaw vest pretty much every day throughout the fall/winter/early spring and the thing looks and feels brand new (and is actually more comfortable now that it's not so stiff). I would also be grossed out by how much I wear it if it smelled at all. I just get it dry cleaned once a year. And if you want a real treat their Jac Shirts are made out of slightly lighter wool, and are classy enough to wear to work. It's camouflage for the urban woodsman.
posted by ghostpony at 11:16 AM on May 28, 2013 [2 favorites]
2. My 2003 Honda Element EX. I've put 140K miles on the odometer, and outside of gas, oil changes and routine maintenance (new tires, brake pads, etc) it hasn't cost me a dime. It runs like a top. It's easily the most utilitarian vehicle I or anyone I know drives. My friends' jaws routinely drop when I fit everything from their full length couch, to a full sized dining room table in the back. Also, the tailgate makes for an excellent cooking/seating area when camping. And the floor and seat arrangement means it's easy to clean. It's a crime they stopped making them.
3. Le Creuset Enameled Dutch Oven- This is a daily use item that sees punishing conditions in my kitchen. Enameled cast iron is the way to go, just make sure to pick up the metal pot handle as the plastic one it ships with melts above 450 which means it's a no go for bread baking. Non-enameled cast iron can be tough to clean, and if not cared for properly a pain in the ass to season. I will say that I got a larger near identical dutch oven made by Kirkland (Costco's house brand, but it says made in France) that is just as good, and may even be holding up better, and it also comes with a stainless steel handle.
4. Filson Mackinaw Jacket, Vest and Jac-Shirt : In the past few years Filson has developed a mixed reputation with various buy outs and decisions to produce some stuff in China, but I can say with full authority that any of their American-made 18- or 24-oz virgin wool products are verifiably bomb proof (pilot's wear wool because it's non-flammable and non-conductive). I wear my Mackinaw vest pretty much every day throughout the fall/winter/early spring and the thing looks and feels brand new (and is actually more comfortable now that it's not so stiff). I would also be grossed out by how much I wear it if it smelled at all. I just get it dry cleaned once a year. And if you want a real treat their Jac Shirts are made out of slightly lighter wool, and are classy enough to wear to work. It's camouflage for the urban woodsman.
posted by ghostpony at 11:16 AM on May 28, 2013 [2 favorites]
Blackberry Bold. Have bounced it off a million hard floors and it's still intact. Never seems to run out of battery either despite almost constant use.
posted by stevedawg at 11:52 AM on May 28, 2013
posted by stevedawg at 11:52 AM on May 28, 2013
Amazon's Kindle. It got me to read again; I can have a book on my Android phone (Kindle Android App) and read it when stuck on the bus or sitting on the toilet. I can read the same book - from the same page - from my fullsize Kindle at home. After years of reading absolutely nothing, the tiny bits of added convenience here got me reading again, and that alone is worth the price and then som.
Google News. Most news sources try to cover lots and lots; this doesn't; it just covers what people are actually reading. Near-perfect. Free.
MSR's Pocket Rocket stove has been with me for a decade. It's their lightest stove. Requires special fuel canisters... but stupidly light and nigh indestructible, which is the winner here.
My P38 can opener went to Korea and back with my grandfather, and still opens cans well. They cost about 25c.
I have some woodworking tools from Lie-Nielsen and Incra. They're spendy; maybe 50% more expensive than their competition. They're notably best-in-class, right out of the box, and have exceeded all expectations I put on them based on their price.
posted by talldean at 5:53 PM on May 28, 2013 [1 favorite]
Google News. Most news sources try to cover lots and lots; this doesn't; it just covers what people are actually reading. Near-perfect. Free.
MSR's Pocket Rocket stove has been with me for a decade. It's their lightest stove. Requires special fuel canisters... but stupidly light and nigh indestructible, which is the winner here.
My P38 can opener went to Korea and back with my grandfather, and still opens cans well. They cost about 25c.
I have some woodworking tools from Lie-Nielsen and Incra. They're spendy; maybe 50% more expensive than their competition. They're notably best-in-class, right out of the box, and have exceeded all expectations I put on them based on their price.
posted by talldean at 5:53 PM on May 28, 2013 [1 favorite]
Seven of mine in no particular order:
1. classic French blue steel crepe pan — Washed annually, rinsed regularly, seasoned perfectly, and the pan in which half my meals start out.
2. Schwinn Varsity — Heavy as hell, and unbreakable, too.
3. Nord Micro Modular — I'm afraid of speaking too highly of this magnificent instrument, lest I send second-hand prices up before I buy a fourth one for myself, but it's really a roomful of modular synthesizer in a box the size of a book and never ever crashes ever.
4. Leatherman Wave — Weighs a ton, but if you get the accessory bit kit, you've got a passable tool for almost everything.
5. Casio F-91W digital watch — Note: arm may come off at high improbabilty factors, rendering watch temporarily unreadable. May get you in trouble at the airport, too.
6. BMW F650ST (1998) — Thought it let me down for a stretch, but I didn't have the manual and didn't know about a certain thing you need to do, then I went and broke my carburetor myself, so it didn't technically let me down, but my skills and sometimes shaky mechanical wisdom did.
7. Ikea ÖDMJUK teapot — The end result of my frantic search for a proper 6-8 cup teapot. Not dribbly and obnoxious like the fvcking design-stupid VÄRME, not some fancypants Bodum nonsense, but just a nice simple teapot that works with my existing tea cozy. Good enough I went back for five more and hid them away in case civilization falls to the point at which I can still get tea, but not a good teapot.
posted by sonascope at 11:41 AM on May 29, 2013 [1 favorite]
1. classic French blue steel crepe pan — Washed annually, rinsed regularly, seasoned perfectly, and the pan in which half my meals start out.
2. Schwinn Varsity — Heavy as hell, and unbreakable, too.
3. Nord Micro Modular — I'm afraid of speaking too highly of this magnificent instrument, lest I send second-hand prices up before I buy a fourth one for myself, but it's really a roomful of modular synthesizer in a box the size of a book and never ever crashes ever.
4. Leatherman Wave — Weighs a ton, but if you get the accessory bit kit, you've got a passable tool for almost everything.
5. Casio F-91W digital watch — Note: arm may come off at high improbabilty factors, rendering watch temporarily unreadable. May get you in trouble at the airport, too.
6. BMW F650ST (1998) — Thought it let me down for a stretch, but I didn't have the manual and didn't know about a certain thing you need to do, then I went and broke my carburetor myself, so it didn't technically let me down, but my skills and sometimes shaky mechanical wisdom did.
7. Ikea ÖDMJUK teapot — The end result of my frantic search for a proper 6-8 cup teapot. Not dribbly and obnoxious like the fvcking design-stupid VÄRME, not some fancypants Bodum nonsense, but just a nice simple teapot that works with my existing tea cozy. Good enough I went back for five more and hid them away in case civilization falls to the point at which I can still get tea, but not a good teapot.
posted by sonascope at 11:41 AM on May 29, 2013 [1 favorite]
This thread is closed to new comments.
posted by roomthreeseventeen at 8:55 AM on May 27, 2013 [1 favorite]