The MetMo Blog


We love all things engineering. From deep dives into our products to historical explorations, there’s a wealth of information just waiting for you on the MetMo blog!

Pro tip! Search ‘Driver History’ to really get your teeth in.



Latest Blog Posts

A diagram demonstrating how a current creates a magnetic field

Eddy currents explained: The story of Eddy and his custard-like antics

Ever wondered why a magnet drops through a copper pipe like it’s wading through thick custard?

In our latest deep dive, we break down the physics behind eddy currents—the fascinating, swirling electrical loops induced inside conducting metals by a changing magnetic field. From a pub trick that will win you free crisps to the engineering marvels of friction-free magnetic braking on rollercoasters, coin sorting in vending machines, and aerospace testing, we explain how Faraday’s and Lenz’s laws control this mind-bending phenomenon.

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17+ Father’s Day gift ideas for 5 types of dads in 2026

17+ Father’s Day gift ideas for 5 types of dads in 2026

Ditch the boring socks this Father’s Day. Our ultimate 2026 gift guide breaks down 17+ unique ideas tailored for 5 specific types of dads—whether he’s a meticulous fixer or an over-organised tinkerer. From handy essentials to premium engineering wonders like the MetMo Pocket Driver, MetMo Cube, MetMo Edge, and MetMo Helico, we design tools and kinetic toys that deliver unmatched mechanical satisfaction and are built to last for generations. Check out the full breakdown and find the perfect match to get his mind ticking over!

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A graph demonstrating the relationship between toughness and hardness

Steeling the show: The best steels and why

At MetMo, we’re obsessed with the science of materials. The truth is, there’s no such thing as a "best" steel—only the right steel for the job. Whether it's a skyscraper, a pocket knife, or a precision tool, every application requires a unique balance of strength, toughness, and corrosion resistance.

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MetMo Gear Train

Taking the 5 best metal fidget toys for a spin

Precision in Your Pocket: The Best Metal Fidget Toys

Forget the cheap plastic toys of 2016. At MetMo, we’re obsessed with over-engineered, "hypnotic" interaction. A true metal fidget shouldn't just spin; it should talk to your fingers through precision-machined feedback and satisfying mass.

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A man working at his tool bench

Why the best-designed hand tools break rules (with examples)

At MetMo, we’re obsessed with tools that "disappear" into the work. We believe the best design isn't just about following rules—it’s about knowing when to break them to create something truly exceptional.

Great tools should be mechanically honest and intuitive, requiring no manual to understand. We prioritise purposeful ergonomics that handle real-world grit, like sweaty hands and long hours at the bench. Whether it’s the shape-shifting Fractal Vise or the multi-functional MetMo Grip, we build for makers who value tools that are as fun to use as they are over-engineered.

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MetMo Edge in the palm of a hand

Pocket science explained: The best 5 types of EDC tools in 2026

Everyday carry is about quiet capability. It’s the art of resisting the urge to carry everything and instead choosing a few beautifully designed tools that earn their place by doing more than one job — reliably, comfortably, and with mechanical grace. Good EDC keeps small problems small, disappears into your pocket or sock until needed, and reflects how you think and work. Carry less, carry better, and let thoughtful design do the heavy lifting.

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Titanium Pocket Driver

The Ti-tan material that never Ti-res

Discover why titanium is one of the most impressive engineering metals in use today. This in-depth guide explores titanium’s properties, history, and real-world applications, explaining its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, heat tolerance, and biocompatibility. Learn how titanium compares to steel, stainless steel, and aluminium, why it’s challenging to machine, and why it’s chosen for aerospace, medical, marine, and precision tools. A must-read overview of what makes titanium worth the cost—and the effort.

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Quick release clamp in use

Release The Fractal

Meet the add-on that turns your Fractal Vise into a teleporting workbench wizard. Snap it off one setup, drop it onto another, or run it free-standing in seconds—no faff, no fuss. It adds height and locks down solid. Bonus: it even moonlights as a tiny vise when you’re in a pinch. Portable, bombproof, and dangerously convenient—proper maker magic.

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Planetary gear for Helico MK2

Planetary gears explained: A design written in the stars

Planetary gears are the David Beckham of the mechanical world—effortlessly smooth, unfairly capable, and adored by just about everyone. This star-struck guide takes you through how these cosmic little gear sets work: a sun in the centre, planets orbiting in perfect harmony, all wrapped inside a ring and carried along for the ride. Swap which part spins, stops or outputs and you unlock everything from torque-boosting reductions to high-speed overdrive. They’re compact, efficient, low-backlash and happy to share the load—no divas here—but they do demand tight tolerances, smart materials and proper care. From drills to drones to Mars rovers, planetary gears have earned their stellar reputation. And if you fancy making your own, just keep your planets aligned… and please show us when you do.

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