Folowing Ironraven's astute advice, I've added Silcock keys to my home and auto BOB's. Problem is they're so darn heavy for a single purpose item. Too heavy in my opinion for an EDC bag. So my question is, does anyone have a source for a lightweight alloy Silcock key? Failing that, do you think a Wave Tool is an adequate substitute for EDC carry? Ironraven, are you out there?

so, is a silcock key just what is looks like...a bike tool with different socket sizes? or is it for special fitting sizes, like water spigots w/out the valve handles, security bolts, etc?

(no doubt, probably both. special apps and standard/metric)

Silcock keys are for turning water spigots that have no handle.

Where did you find a heavy key acropolis5? All of the ones that i sold in the past were made out of pot metal. Here is a link,

http://www.acehardwareoutlet.com/(eigyuynnfrmrce2yjo3ymbf5)/ProductDetails.aspx?SKU=40072

Standard Disclaimer, but this should be available in the local stores also.

RayW, I bought the Silcock keys from a major hardware company on the internet. Problem is, I don't remember which company it was. In any event, my postal scale says it weighs 6oz.s

Hardware stores commonly carry fairly lightweight aluminum or white-metal silcock handles in the plumbing department. But a Leatherman wave, or similar tool, should work nicely also. Just to make sure take a screwdriver and remove a handle from a nearby spigot and give your multi-tool a try.

Based on the weight (6.0 oz) I don't believe that the key that you linked to is what the OP is describing, rather it is most like the four way version like this one:

http://www.generaltools.com/Products/4-Way-Faucet-Wrench__182.aspx

I've had one of these in my BoB for quite awhile, and they are indeed quite heavy. Mine measures 166g (5.8oz), although unlike the one that you linked these feature the four most common sizes (1/4", 9/32", 5/16", and 11/32").

Jim

I hear.

Mine is about the weight of a 3-layer SAK, so the 6-7ounces that others are posting sound about right. I've seen some I could get to with a pair of pliers, but some I couldn't becuase they are recessed too deep for that very purpose.

I consider it an important tool. Maybe not critical, but nice. I think it is worth the weight- I carry more than that in tea and cocoa, so....

Hate to say this but i worked in a hardware store for over 16 years and i don't think that i have ever seen a four way silcock key. Learn something new everyday. Of course knowing me i only ordered the keys that fit the silcocks that i sold.