Case Study: Q1 V2 - The Ultimate Quick-Release EDC Carry System
- Kyle Sekenski
- May 28
- 4 min read
Updated: May 29
THE BACKGROUND
Case Study: Q1 V2 - The Ultimate Quick-Release EDC Carry System
Antdesign is a US-born company specializing in innovative pocket tools through their Ant Pocket Tool sub-brand for maximal convenience and accessibility of EDC (Everyday Carry) items. The company manufactures all products from their factory in Spain, which allows the company to save on customs duties and other markups and pass on the savings, as well as keep a tight grip on quality control.
With ever more consumers looking to maximize not only the ready-at-hand convenience and accessibility of essential items but also the SECURITY of such items while on the go, Ant Pocket Tool developed the Q1 V2, a new addition to the growing EDC market aimed at providing users with a secure and accessible way to keep small, important everyday items close at hand.
OUR APPROACH
The challenge was to design a connector that could provide easy detachment, preferably with only one hand, with enough durability and security to never need worry about an accidental detachment.
Recognizing the increasing need for a better replacement for the typical magnetic or mechanical item connectors, Ant Pocket Tool designed the Q1 V2 with specific features that combine both the superior releasability of the magnetic connector with the superior security of the mechanical connector, while eliminating the weakness of the former and the difficulty of the latter.
The result is the Q1 V2, designed around nine key elements, with the peace-of-mind and customizability on the part of the user first in mind:
Innovative Magnetic-Mechanical Dual Lock: The Q1 V2 merges the convenience of a magnetic connector with the security of a mechanical connector. It attaches and securely locks magnetically by bringing the two halves together.
Single-Handed Operation – Instant Release: Ant Pocket Tool integrated N52 magnets into both halves of the connector, allowing for a secure and one-handed connection when the two halves are brought near each other. Releasing the connector is as easy as lightly pulling down on the outer shell of the mechanism, an action which is virtually impossible to occur accidentally.
Exceptional Load Capacity & Durability: Through the use of Grade 5 aerospace titanium, the Q1 V2 can support up to 165 lbs for daily use (a weight far exceeding any likely application of the product), and has been stress-tested for up to 348 lbs.
Ultra-Lightweight & Compact: The Q1 V2 is available in 3 ultralight materials (Titanium, Aluminum, POM/PEI) and has a minimalist footprint, allowing for bulk-free storage in a pocket.
360° Infinite Rotation – Zero Tangling: With the mechanism able to freely rotate 360 degrees, the risk of twisting or tangling of items is eliminated.
Robust Protection for Long-Term Use: The titanium shell of the mechanism securely encases the magnets, protecting them and the locking mechanism from loss or damage.
Powerful N52 Magnet – Extra Convenience: With the powerful integrated N52 magnets, you can detach the connector and attach the EDC item to a magnetic surface for quick storage.
Tritium-Compatible Version – Personalize Your Q1 V2: Ant Pocket Tool is offering a special version of the Q1 V2 that can hold up to 6 1.5mm × 6mm tubes of tritium, an element that glows naturally in the dark for up to 25 years.
Q1 V2 Key Organizer – Streamlined Key Management: The Q1 V2 also comes in a Key Organizer version, allowing the user to lock multiple keys in place into the same mechanism and easily unfold each one for access.
THE RESULTS
The Q1 V2 proved very popular with the public, particularly those who commute by foot or bike and often use public transit. By combining functionality with accessibility and ease of use, the connector mechanism met the following key objectives:
Enhanced User Functionality: Users experienced a significant improvement in both the security and convenience of accessing their EDC items while using the product.
Enhanced User Comfort: The mechanism's miniscule & minimalist profile allowed for easy storage in a pocket, or attachment to a lanyard, belt or belt loop.
User Friendliness: With the mechanism able to effortlessly attach and nearly effortlessly detach with the action of just a single hand, users were impressed by the ease of use for the product.
Positive Brand Recognition: Antdesign solidified its position as an innovative leader in the EDC solutions product market, recognized for understanding the evolving needs of consumers. The Q1 V2 has helped solidify Antdesign's reputation in this field.
Market Expansion and Product Line Growth: The success of the Q1 V2 also contributed to the expansion of Antdesign's Ant Pocket Tool product line, positioning the company to introduce additional EDC solution products that build on the features that have helped their customer base grow. With an emphasis on functional and durable products, Antdesign continues to evolve and expand into new consumer segments.
TOTAL BACKERS:
2,156 backers
AMOUNT RAISED:
US$ 173,780 / US$ 5,000 goal
PERCENT OF GOAL:
3472%
THE RESULTS
The Antdesign Kickstarter video campaign won over many prospective backers, with many of them satisfied with the video's simple, clear, dialogue-free demonstration of the product's many applications. The backers and users also liked how the video clearly and concisely shows the mechanical action of the device, as well as the different variants of it (such as the Key Organizer), as well as the different customization options.
Starget offers comprehensive all-in-one solutions to support creators in their global expansion from beginning to end. If you have any questions about global outreach, feel free to reach out anytime!
Comments