best multi-tool?

U

unvisible805

Joined
Jun 29, 2013
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i've reached a cooling period with my balisong collection and have been to start picking up more EDC items like a benchmade presidio auto, a small mag-lite (the version that takes 4 AAs)
and now im thinking about a multi-tool.. i'd like it to be beautiful, have the most used common tools, i dont need one with things like a lanyard threader or other 'specialty' tools..
a decent price would be key as well.. i've owned a few leathermans like the wave.. and it was good, but it didnt feel right.. not my 'style' i guess
 
Well, an obvious choice is the Vic Spirit (and SwissTool). They come in a couple different flavors. I have several. Pick one up, I think you'll like it.
 
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The Vic is the only logical choice, if you can't find a LEatherman to suit you. They are higher-polished than the Leatherman, and can come with some of the 'known-quantity' implements like SAKs excellent scissors, can-open, awl, etc.
 
I have the Spirit. Great multi-tool. But this Xmas, I'm giving myself a new Swisstool X. I tried a buddy's out last week, and it has some features that the Spirit doesn't. For example, the scissors. The Spirit has some pretty cheesy scissors, but the Swisstool has the full size SAK scissors...much better IMO. Also, I like the ruler on the side of the Swisstool. Handy for small measurements. That's really it, I suppose, but for a few extra ounces (4.25, to be exact), and about the same overall size, it's worth it.
 
My favorite, and the one I've been carrying the past three years, is the Vic Swisstool Spirit S, the one with the serrated blade instead of scissors. Before that, I've carried/used all manner of Leatherman tools, and even an original Vic Swisstool. For me, the Spirit S beats them all.

Jim
 
"Vic Swisstool X", good choice, I have several and think this one's by far the best. The chisel and awl are really useful.
 
pilgrimuk said:
"Vic Swisstool X", good choice, I have several and think this one's by far the best. The chisel and awl are really useful.
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it comes with an owl?!
hogwarts-meme-owl-meme-yolo-meme-owls-tootsie-poops-harry-potter-meme-funny-pictures-blog-funny-.jpg
 
"Best" really depends on what work you plan to do with the tool, and how much weight you are willing to carry. I'm a big fan of the Swisstool X (my EDC), but it is not a light tool, nor is it an inexpensive tool. I would suggest you also look at SOG, Paladin, Leatherman, Gerber 600 series, and maybe the Wenger Ranger series.
 
Mahoney said:
"Best" really depends on what work you plan to do with the tool, and how much weight you are willing to carry. I'm a big fan of the Swisstool X (my EDC), but it is not a light tool, nor is it an inexpensive tool. I would suggest you also look at SOG, Paladin, Leatherman, Gerber 600 series, and maybe the Wenger Ranger series.
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yeah i took a look at quite a bit, but im gonna go with the swisstool x. i wont buy a gerber anything ever again. had way too many of their product fail and lots of their knives dull and were not able
to keep a sharpening again.
 
unvisible805 said:
i've reached a cooling period with my balisong collection and have been to start picking up more EDC items like a benchmade presidio auto, a small mag-lite (the version that takes 4 AAs)
and now im thinking about a multi-tool.. i'd like it to be beautiful, have the most used common tools, i dont need one with things like a lanyard threader or other 'specialty' tools..
a decent price would be key as well.. i've owned a few leathermans like the wave.. and it was good, but it didnt feel right.. not my 'style' i guess
Click to expand...

For me, "best" equals most used. For me, it is a Leatherman Micra carried in the LFP. Great companion to an EDC knife. Larger multitool rides in my pack. Not used all that much comparatively. Micra many times a day. Wave a few times a week.


EDC Pair by Pinnah, on Flickr
 
Another vote for Swisstool Spirit X. I collect MTs, and out of a few dozens of them, my current favorite is still the Swisstool Spirit X. The fit/finish/quality of this tool speaks volume.
 
Of all the multi-tools I've handled, I've found that the Victorinox SwissTool models have the highest production quality. The smoothest actions, the nicest finish, and the most accessible / usable tools.

I've never tried a SOG, but if buying a multi-tool for collecting I'd like one of theirs with the gear drive pliers.
 
For 20 years my EDC multi-tool was a Gerber 600. I abused the crap out of it and it never let me down. I just recently retired it. The pliers tips weren't aligning anymore. I replaced the 600 with a SOG S60 N. I've owned the SOG for about 3 months. I haven't found anything to complain about yet. The tools are easily replaced by removing a screw.
 
Based on the experiences of many of my students and co-workers, I would feel fairly confident recommending a Gerber 400 or 600 series tool. The other models from Gerber, not so much. SOG makes a good tool, but getting a model with the gear covers is essential, otherwise using the screwdrivers with those gears digging into your palm... I like many Leatherman models but what keeps the Swisstool on my belt most of the time are the "outside accessible" tools. Once you get used to that, it's hard going back to a MT that you have to open before you can flip out a tool.
 
My favorite big tool is the Swisstool, the biggest tool I carry often is the SOG Paratool...with a Leatherman Juice being a close second. I also always carry either a small Gerber Shortcut or a Leatherman Squirt or Micra.

The best tool is the tool that suits your needs and that you can comfortably carry...I don't want to know I'm carrying a multi-tool until I need to bring it out.
 
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