Confused

H

Hitthespot

Joined
Mar 2, 2008
Messages
371
I am looking for a new Multitool. So many models, Surge, Wave, Charge, Spirit. I guess I'll ask you guys. I would like the usual screwdriver, scissors, and stuff but I also want a wood saw and Metal saw and a File. I also want one blade that is NOT serrated. I don't need a fish hook remover, never understood taking up space for that one, and I don't need a tape measure. I would prefer Leatherman or Victorinox, so what is the difference between all of the different models?

Thanks

Bill
 
it is largely a matter of personal taste, perhaps make a list of what you want, then look at the implement charts on each mfg website. or get a SOG and arrange them yourself. because the actual size of the multitool is a factor for some people, its hard to really recommend a model
 
a valid question when your new to MTs and have never handled one!
My answer is:

Differences are size/weight, tools, materials, price, warranty, and overall finish/quality.

Leathermans are popular and they make many fine models for many needs. 25 year warranty.

Victorinox is in my opinion the best quality MT, the fit and finish are excellent but not as many models/types, and they take forever to come out with new stuff. Lifetime warranty.

Sog makes a good MT, not as good a finish as the others but you can easily buy and switch out tools, the others need special tool(s) and even then it's not easy but Sog has the strongest compound leverage pliers. Lifetime warranty.

Gerber makes a fun MT, not as reliable as the others (the most complaints I've seen) but they are getting better and they have some smart designs. Lifetime warranty.

Many more too like; Bear, Paladin, Schrade, SwissTech and more. Also the Chinese clones! Don't forget SAK! (Swiss Army Knife) it's a multitool ;)

So do some research, find out what you like, go to a few stores (like wally world) and feel them out in your hands or ask friends to show you theirs, narrow it down and if you still have questions we do our best to help you.

Good Luck and enjoy!
 
Last edited:
I would look at either Leatherman or Vic . Try and handle before you buy if possible .

Have fun !

Chris
 
Based on your requirements, the Surge seems the best choice as you can choose the type of saw blade you want to use.

The Surge is a big tool though, so handle before you buy.
 
I think Dantor said it all. When I was looking for one I chose the Spirit because it has scissors and it has the best finish. But I think you can't go wrong with either Leatherman or Victorinox, it will all depend on what tools you need.
 
The Surge is a fine big tool , but a tad bit heavy for EDC ( my $.02 ) . You wont go wrong with it , or for that matter with the Spirit or Swisstool .

Chris
 
Questions of size and wieght are formost on my mind. I don't want something large and hard to EDC. IF the Surge is larger does that mean the Wave and Charge are smaller? What about the size of the Spirit?

I wish I knew of a brick and morter place close to me I could handle these things at.

Thanks

Bill
 
Hitthespot said:
Questions of size and wieght are formost on my mind. I don't want something large and hard to EDC. IF the Surge is larger does that mean the Wave and Charge are smaller? What about the size of the Spirit?

I wish I knew of a brick and morter place close to me I could handle these things at.

Thanks

Bill
Click to expand...

Well The surge is larger then the Wave, I think the Core is the largest LM made. If size is a problem, LM makes the Juice series, which works well, within it's limitations. Schrade is too bulky, maybe look at the PST or a Victorinox Spirit. Which tools are a MUST HAVE?
 
It looks like wallyworld carries the Leatherman and Victorinox lines, at least on line. I may take a drive up tonight and see what models they actually have in the store. It does look like I need to handle these things. Too many variables.

Thanks Everyone,

Bill
 
Hitthespot said:
I wish I knew of a brick and morter place close to me I could handle these things at.
Click to expand...
You and most everyone here ;).
I'm in the same boat for about 99% of the things I buy, and it's absolutely TERRIBLE to buy stuff without trying it on first :rolleyes:. Thank God we have forums like BF.

Well, being honest, you guys make me spend way more money then I would spend if I didn't hang around here :p.
 
The Spirit is a nice tight little EDC package , an gets her done ! It also has very nice hand Ergos ( curved handles - just like real pliers ) . Kinda feels like handling Steel Boodies !

Chris
 
I have a spirit and I think it would fit the bill for you.
One gripe I have however is the polished finish tends to get smudgy, and that leads to a bit of slipage IMO. I don't know if the black finish is more grippy, but it's only a minor issue.
 
After a little further research I think I've narrowed it down to The Vic Spirit X or the Leatherman Wave. I'm going to try and find places that have them in stock tonight so I can handle them.

Now let me see, Leather or Nylon holster..............:D

Bill
 
Hitthespot said:
After a little further research I think I've narrowed it down to The Vic Spirit X or the Leatherman Wave. I'm going to try and find places that have them in stock tonight so I can handle them.

Now let me see, Leather or Nylon holster..............:D

Bill
Click to expand...

I concurr with your two choices , both will serve you well .

Chris
 
Hitthespot said:
After a little further research I think I've narrowed it down to The Vic Spirit X or the Leatherman Wave. I'm going to try and find places that have them in stock tonight so I can handle them.

Now let me see, Leather or Nylon holster..............:D

Bill
Click to expand...
I have both, the fit and finish is MUCH better on the spirit.
the leatherman is more of a knife and less of a tool, also when using the knife on the leatherman the aluminum sides hurt your hand.
the only thing I have against the spirit is................ well nothing I like it way better in every way.
 
I have the Wave and haven't noticed any pain when using the knife. Maybe if I had an extended cutting job to do the handle might become uncomfortable, but I don't consider it a major problem.

I like the Wave and have been very pleased with mine. It seems many people on here prefer the leather, but I got the nylon because I thought it might be more durable, especially if it got wet. I've been pleased w/ it but have never had a leather one so I may be totally wrong.
 
I usually throw stock multi sheaths over my left shoulder , and either use Mag pouches or do my own leather pouches .

Chris
 
Hitthespot said:
After a little further research I think I've narrowed it down to The Vic Spirit X or the Leatherman Wave. I'm going to try and find places that have them in stock tonight so I can handle them.

Now let me see, Leather or Nylon holster..............:D

Bill
Click to expand...

good choices! either will serve you well. LM is coming out with a new sheath/holster; http://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,16768.0.html
I like it! :thumbup:
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top