Review: Birzman Damselfly Chain Tool Tested

A good quality and high performing chain tool is a must for any professional or home workshop tool box and the Birzman Damselflty ticked all the boxes for Pinkbike.com when they put it to the test.

There’s a good chance that anyone who is a fan of nice bikes also has a few nice tools kicking around, and having the basics on hand can save you some big coin when it comes to repairs that you shouldn’t need a shop to take care of for you. A chain tool, be it part of a mini-tool or a larger standalone unit, is one of those essential items, and the Birzman Damselfly Universal chain tool certainly falls into that latter category. The solid feeling unit is constructed out of aluminium, with a long base to hold onto and large handle that should provide more than enough leverage for even the most stubborn pins. The threading is steel, with an insert in the main body that the steel screw section threads into, and the rivet pin is replaceable should you manage to break one (it also comes with a spare). It’s most interesting feature has to be the spring loaded chain holder that not only allows it to be used on everything from a BMX chain to the thinner 11 speed chains so common today, but also helps to hold the chain in place as you align the rivet with the pin you want to push out. A small screw on the front of the tool holds the entire assembly in place, and removing it allows you to replace the spring loaded assembly if need be.   

Overall

We didn't only use the Damselfly on the latest 11 speed chains, but also 10, 9, and even a BMX chain in order to see if it worked as claimed. The result? Zero issues all around, and while the spring loaded chain keeper does add some complication, it also does exactly what Birzman says. Sure, the truth is that most shop mechanics are going to be pretty careful and deliberate about making sure that the chain doesn't shift regardless, but, for the home mechanic who doesn't use a chain tool a handful times every day, it's a neat feature that could save them a headache at some point in the future. The tool is also comfy when in-hand, and the large handle provides more than enough leverage for any job. The Damselfly Universal chain tool isn't exactly the kind of thing that you're going to put in your pack - that's not what it was designed for - but it is a great option for the home or shop mechanic who is doesn't mind trying some different than what they might be used to seeing.

To read the full review on the Birzman Damselfly Chain Tool click here