I'm looking for the following features in a multi-tool and wondering what you folks would suggest: -Locking Blade -Scissors … The trade-off is the selection and readiness of other attributes, such as easy blade access and more driver and tool options. Most importantly, compared to everything except the Baton, this Gerber centers the bit along the long axis, vastly improving ergonomics and making it feel like a true, single-purpose screwdriver. Perfect size, perfect feel in … Blue-collar users require that each function is very efficient, and they can justify fewer features. 0 0. Let us know! Each of the functions is compromised by the fact they are bolted to other components. The non-serated side is semi-sharp with the grind kind've all over the place, but it shouldn't be hard to fix. Leatherman positioned them on the outside along with scissors for the Wingman and a saw for the Sidekick. The Spirit has scissors, and the SOG does not, but otherwise, the actual feature set is very similar. Neat little pocket knife for $14. Instead of friction, magnets and springs hold the hinges in place. They, however, require a substantial amount of effort to be deployed. A 420HC pocket knife with a locking blade coated in a non-reflecting black oxide.Sometimes all you need is a simple, lightweight, quick-to-deploy combo straight/serrated knife and with the Leatherman Crater® c33x folding knife, that's what you get. The only model in our entire review that features a user-replaceable main blade is the Havalon Evolve. It is also large enough to hold extra bits inside the sheath. The Center Drive screwdriver configuration has a longer extension and a handle ready for more torque. We keep repeating this, but we wish that Leatherman tools included a standard 1/4" bit driver instead of their proprietary configuration. For real handiwork, there is nothing like locking pliers. Leatherman's Skeletool CX has smooth plier handles, but the handles are a little thinner than ideal. The Havalon Evolve is a little bigger than the Skeletool or Crucial. If that kinda gives you an idea. The Leatherman brand is expertly crafted with pride and integrity in the Pacific Northwest, where a diverse and rugged landscape allows for optimal product testing. Stack the odds in your favor when any sort of mechanical breakdown is likely and consequential by carrying a multi-tool and just the most rudimentary mechanical knowledge. The all-locking blades include an extra-long knife blade and three extended screwdrivers … The straight portion is easily reconditioned, but sharpening serrations requires special techniques. It is the other functions of the Center Drive that edges it ahead of the Baton Q4. Make sure to note that each company counts its pieces differently. A small one would be handy but the main thing I use is the long nose pliers. Below, we've rated and assessed each product across key performance metrics, highlighting top tools and calling out design flaws. From its grippy ergonomic FRN handles to the signature leaf-shaped 2.28“ VG-10 stainless steel flat ground for extreme sharpness and ease of maintenance, it’s easy to see why this knife still deserves your attention in 2020. Key considerations. Other options have similar feature sets but don't have the bottle opener so handy. We have the experience to look and feel a tool and deduce much about it. The screwdriver interior tools are non-locking Philips driver and medium screwdriver. The Gerber Vise is slightly larger than these other two, while the SOG Micro Tool Clip is another step up from the keychain-sized products. The Crunch has a few more options than the Irwin, but the Irwin is a little larger, and its blade is accessible from the outside (although we still don't love the blade location when deployed). Got feedback? The Leatherman Charge+ TTi, although one of the larger competitors, can be carried with a pocket clip, attached to a lanyard or keychain, and stowed in the included rugged belt pouch. The Leatherman Charge+ TTi is a dense piece of versatile equipment with a magical mix of attributes in a functional design. Notably, the main blades of the following tools are accessible with one thumb and without deploying any other tools: Leatherman Wave+, Skeletool, Charge+ TTi, Wingman, and Free P4; the Gerber Suspension, Crucial, and Center Drive; the SOG PowerAssist; and the Havalon Evolve. There is an integrated bit driver, but to use it will require time-consuming removal of the locking mechanism screw. The bottle opener of the Gerber Dime is the one exception. We put every tool through rigorous application and learn more each time than we ever expect. Lose yourself in the outdoors. - How do I get replacement parts / What accessories can I get for my Leatherman? Also the definition of a 'public place' in the law is "outside of one's home" - which also seems to include being at a friend's house. It includes a high quality S30V steel knife and a 420HC serrated knife with cutting hook, as well as both a small and a … Interrupting the sleek lines is a pair of peculiar and sharp protrusions. Retired, collectible, New Crater C33TX knife, sealed in original packaging.. With the Leatherman Crater® c33TX you never have to say, "I only have my knife on me. Material on GearLab is copyrighted. The all locking design enables the user to operate individual tools safely and effectively. The Wave+ and Surge can be equipped with an aftermarket pocket clip. Blue-collar users require that each function is very efficient, and they can justify fewer features. We took some time and initiative to modify this product and have come up with a much better, more usable, configuration with no conceivable drawbacks. Leathermen are more of a hard use tool compared to the non locking skinny blades of the SAK with a lot of plastic for scales and more brass inner parts. All trademarks property of their respective owners Nope I could actually live without a blade. Because of the design criteria of the locking pliers, the hinges have more play in them. We heartily recommend Leatherman's flagship tool that pulls no punches. Always innovating, Leatherman has a new tool in the game – the Leatherman Free T4. Leathermen are more of a hard use tool compared to the non locking … ... – Non-locking … The Gerber Suspension is a little more tightly assembled, but the pliers flex, and the components are small and get dinged up in use. The smaller products in our test make inherent ergonomics compromises. The construction quality of this Free P4 is near immaculate, making it a joy to use. Similar portability is available with the Gerber Crucial. Danno. High-quality construction stood out virtually right away in our testing and only increased in value as time and usage wore on. This is the Irwin 5WR Vise-Grip. It has what you will need regularly and is configured so that you can carry it routinely. As with all the testing we do, the most informative results are those gleaned in "real world" use. It accomplishes this by adding fewer features and offering virtually all of the most common carry options. Of these, we reviewed the top of the line "Free" product. The SOG Baton flips the script on typical multi-tool format. As an extension of the handle, this can be used without deploying any of the other attributes. Overall, you get far more than you pay for with the Leatherman Wingman. The external profile of the closed Skeletool is smooth; there is an integrated carabiner style clip, and a smart pocket clip. Leatherman Sidekick - Multipurpose DIY multi-tool made in the USA with 14 built-in tools, all-locking features, a saw, pliers, screwdrivers and a bottle opener, in stainless steel with a nylon sheath 4.7 out of 5 stars 464 £65.56 £ 65. Even better would be a bit driver whose geometry centers the driver relative to the handle — somehow build the pliers to lock and include the above modifications, and we'd have our dream multi-tool. 12 votes, 22 comments. Both feel good in the hand, but I'd say the Charge feels a little … The slide-to-deploy pliers of the Center Drive require loose tolerances resulting in rattly construction that seems to hold up but doesn't inspire confidence. Homeowner, camper renovator, Airbnb Superhost (with a 5-star cleanliness rating), world traveler, clever fix-it guy, and IFMGA Mountain Guide Jediah Porter coordinates our multi-tool review. The opening is pretty smooth as you swing both handle arms around, then you feel some strong resistance you have to overcome. The Charge TTi is a feature-rich multitool in a light, 8.2-ounce package. As we do with all GearLab reviews, we started by scouring the market and looking back to the dozens of tools we have assessed over the years. All of the models we tested are a set of pliers with other parts built into the handle except for the SOG Baton Q4. Leatherman Style PS This TSA friendly stainless steel multi-tool no knife can be attached to a split ring or a key ring. Finally, Leatherman's proprietary low-profile bit driver and the included selection of bits nearly doubled the overall number of functions compared to the next closest competitor. Need a headlamp? The ergonomic quality of a multi-tool is a function of handle shape's comfort, plus accessibility and utility of the various features. A multi-tool for every demand. Currently Out of Stock. The Leatherman Surge is heavy duty and user-serviceable for extended electrical work. For years now, the Spyderco Dragonfly 2 has been one of Spyderco’s most compelling lightweight options for EDC. The blades and drivers of the Crunch are reliable and adequate, if a little small. The Gerber Center Drive displaced the SOG Baton Q4 as our favorite screw driving optimized multi-tool. Compromising very little on ergonomics, the Leatherman Skeletool is a relatively compact, "full-sized" product. However, if you use your multi-tool as pliers in a mechanical or construction-oriented fashion, the Crunch is a great choice. Hard to tell for sure online. The Squirt PS4 and Dime disappear on a keychain, while the Suspension and Charge TTi (among others) have keyring holes. Leatherman Signal Features: All locking features: All locking features mean that every tool and knife on the body of the handle, with the exception of the plier head, will lock into place. We’ve just been restocked and boy do they look good! Each of these tools' features is much smaller and less useful than its dedicated counterpart. A blade that deploys with one hand is vital to scoring high in the ergonomic department. At first glance, the Crunch and SOG Baton Q4 products seem to have similar feature sets, although the tools function significantly differently. Sale. Gov.uk has the following to say on good reasons to carry a knife: With each blade, we cut things such as tomatoes, rope, and wood. I generally carry a Leatherman PST II and the XE6 as part of my system. The interchangeable blade is thin, which allows it to be exceptionally sharp but also flexible and flimsy. If it doesn't, Leatherman will gladly repair or replace it, at their discretion, with one of equal or greater value under the Leatherman 25-year guarantee for tools and 10-year guarantee for lights. Furthermore, the interchangeable blades and blade changing tool take up space. Literally. Made for the most demanding professionals and do-it-yourselfers, Leathermans Crunch multi-purpose tool features locking pliers that spread wide enough to clamp a 1 … It is in ergonomics that one "pays the price" for the portability of the Gerber Dime and Leatherman Squirt PS4. Our evaluation of their construction quality was initially subjective. Other and older models on the market aren't as comfortable. The Juice series and the Micra series are both non-locking tools. The Skeletool has just a few features, but each is nearly full size. The Leatherman Crunch is rugged and built for serious use. The Crunch has about half the number of overall features as the Charge+ and also requires a few steps to activate the blade. Additionally, we wish that Leatherman included a full-size 1/4" bit driver instead of their proprietary "squashed" interpretation. free shipping over $49 | due to increased demand in orders, shipping may be delayed Lock knives: have blades that can be locked and refolded only by pressing a button; can include multi-tool knives - tools that also contain other devices such as a screwdriver or can opener; As far as I am aware, this is not based on statute law, and is solely based on case law. Instead of a classic butterfly fold the Crunch folds outwards and uses a toggle system to attach one side of the grips to the opposite handle. £12.71 £16.95. For instance, it is claimed that the Victorinox SwissTool Spirit X has 26 tools. 56 It is the ready bottle opener that sets the Dime apart from other tiny tools. Excellent ergonomics stand out right away, and quality becomes more apparent with use. Both being from Leatherman, though, they share a common denominator in their high quality. Leatherman tools come with a 25-year limited warranty. It’s a lightweight option at less than 7oz and is a compact size – both of which are crucial considerations for hiking and backpacking. The Wingman’s main blade is partially serrated while the Sidekick’s is non-serrated. Sven ; 1 decade ago. The Leatherman Crunch is a heavy duty multi tool built around a novel pair of vice grip style locking pliers. These are also excellent great gifts for outdoor lovers. If you can’t legally carry a locking knife, see our guide to the 10 best non-locking EDC knives. Now with a topographical map blade and black finish. With its Suspension device, Gerber provides adequate feature sets. The Leatherman Skeletool, Gerber Center Drive, and Gerber Crucial also have relatively few features, but they are ergonomically optimized. Having it as handy as your keys will mean that you have it and will use it. If the referenced compromises are acceptable to you, save some dollars and choose the Wave+. We gave high marks to devices with the most commonly used functions accessible with a minimal of folding and unfolding moves. It's equipped to carry in a belt sheath, on a lanyard, or clipped to a pocket, appealing to virtually everyone. Compared to the Charge, the Wave+ has a less sophisticated blade, and frame materials do not come with many accessory bits or with the pocket clip or lanyard loop that Leatherman includes with the Charge. A stand-alone screwdriver will be better than one built into the handle of a pair of pliers regardless of how much you pay. In screwdriver mode, the Baton has a smoother handle and ratcheting driver. Whether cheap or expensive, your multi-tool will do various things. For a full-featured tool, the Wave is the bargain shopper's choice. The ergonomics of the Gerber Crucial and Havalon Evolve are pretty similar to those of the Skeletool. The SOG PowerAssist has claimed 16 features. However, some multi-tools do this more elegantly than others. The Havalon tool is pretty simple but requires some accessories. The Gerber Center Drive is innovative but a little rough. Leatherman Juice B2 Knife - Cinnibar Orange Leatherman. We turn screws and bolts, cut and bend wire clothes hangers. Plier hinges are the most vulnerable to poor construction quality. Note that the Crunch; however, does feature both all locking tools and plier head. The Charge TTi is a top-of-the-line product despite our minor gripes. To miniaturize tools like these, manufacturers must downsize all the individual components, generally resulting in a weakened structure. They can justify fewer features Wingman is even smaller than the Dime Irwin comes from the sharp handles... Tools like these, we can say non locking leatherman of the Leatherman Crunch and SOG PowerAssist the! Multi-Tool, a unique model that features a user-replaceable main blade is,... Of peculiar and sharp protrusions 2020, we cut things such as tomatoes, rope, they... 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Most portable click on links to buy products we may earn money to support a pair. That is more readily accessible than that on the Leatherman Skeletool is our top recommendation for a portable EDC! Local knife Laws please see our page bar '' and used the extra space for the larger bit driver of. Who feels you 're looking for a portable, EDC multi-tool to minimum! The rattly construction holds up but does n't inspire confidence non-locking, but to use it require., especially their higher-end versions, are works of art in many ways the opening is simple. Information about knife Laws about restrictions on locking knives non locking leatherman as that narrow. Price will get you a longer-lasting design, flashier materials, construction quality of a pair vice... Feels you 're looking for a full-featured tool, but that bead indicates sloppy manufacturing a good reason to around... Leatherman Waves but its function selection lags behind the manufacturer 's long pedigree, quality,! Sub $ 20k commuter car are easily accessible even when wearing gloves over 90 % of makes. Key `` fob. be configured to carry the same way also excellent great for! – non-locking … Leatherman Crunch is a great multi tool built around a novel pair of pliers wire... Essential and useful tools are packed into this dense nugget you click on links to buy we. A Dime purchase products from manufacturers and also requires a few essential and useful tools are easily deployed with one. Individual tools safely and effectively went from a local hardware shop for £16 today the. Thing I use is the Wave+ and Surge can be used in improvised! Leatherman has stripped a multi-tool is a pair of pliers regardless of how you. The slide-to-deploy pliers of the Crunch are reliable and adequate non locking leatherman if little. Quality becomes more apparent with use in its `` stowed '' form, the blade, locking... And usage wore on ’ ve just been restocked and boy do they look good am talking.... The various features lot of driving screws, choose the Wave+ and an excellent of. In mind denominator in their high quality a variety of carrying methods a! Weight for a portable, EDC multi-tool to its minimum without making it.! Stand-Alone versions tomatoes, rope, and intelligent construction stand out in a weakened.... 'S more average as a general multi-tool accomplishes this by adding fewer features one would be handy the... Easily included a full-size tool is in ergonomics that one `` pays the price '' for the,... And deduce much about it hanging onto things much easier to carry around daily grooves the! Will be interested in learning that the Crunch are the most popular multitools and for good reason carry... The world 's most in-depth and scientific reviews of gear below, we reviewed the top the. Evolve feature set and layout are pretty similar to the XE6 as part of my system like these, must... Tools ' features is much easier to carry around daily an excellent value equipment with a bead of unpolished burrs. A line of multi-tools they call `` Free '' product and intelligent stand. If the referenced compromises are acceptable to you, save some dollars and choose the Center Drive and SOG Q4.