first multitool

R

rapax

Joined
Dec 18, 2005
Messages
18
I have been using SAK:s for a lot of years and now I want to buy my first multitool. I would appreciate your advice. I live in an European country so not all models available in the US can be found here. However, here are some models available at the local shop:

Vic Swisstool
Leatherman:Core-New Wave-Kick-Blast-Juice CS4 Glacier
Gerber: MP 400-MP 500-MP 600

Thanks
 
I say the Leatherman Wave, I bought mine and I love it. I liked it better then any of the gerber multi tools. Plus its really nice to be able to open the blades with one hand.
 
The Swisstool and Core are both big, robust tools. The Core has true needlenose pliers, and the wire cutters are bigger, but you can't get to the other tools without opening the pliers. With the Swisstool, you can use the other tools while the pliers are closed.

Of the others you mentioned, the only one I have any sort of familiarity with is the New Wave, but that's because I have the Charge Ti, which, as far as I can tell, is the New Wave with titanium handles and superior knife blade steel. The Charge is an excellent tool as well--I love the one-handed opening, and it's a bit more compact that the Core and Swisstool.

It seems to me that you need to decide which features are priorities for you. If it's the one-handed knife opening, or the true needlenose pliers, or the ability to get to the other tools without opening the pliers, or the size and weight, etc.

Me? I own the LM Supertool that stays with my motorcycle, a SOG P60 that stays with my boat, the LM Charge that goes camping with me, and the Swisstool that goes just about everywhere else (unless I'm taking my Handyman). And I'm not the one with the most toys here, if other threads are any indication. :)
 
rapax said:
I have been using SAK:s for a lot of years and now I want to buy my first multitool. I would appreciate your advice. I live in an European country so not all models available in the US can be found here. However, here are some models available at the local shop:

Vic Swisstool
Leatherman:Core-New Wave-Kick-Blast-Juice CS4 Glacier
Gerber: MP 400-MP 500-MP 600

Thanks
Click to expand...

These are general observations because I don't own any of the particular models you list. I do own several earlier model Leatherman tools. They suit me very well and I am very satisfied with both products and company.

There seems to be almost universal concensus that Swisstool has somewhat better fit and finish than the others. However, there are differing opinions about utility and'convenience among the various offerings. A little research on this forum archive can help :) :confused:

I don't know how well they compare in terms of long term durability. Mine don't get daily hard use like those of some forum members, but are for expedient or emergency service when the need arises. This happens at least several times a week if not every day, on several occasions helping me out of a real jam. For those purposes, any quality make will hold up well, leaving the only consideration that of suitability to your particular needs. Example; our local police bomb squad is equipped with Gerbers because of their convenient one hand opening pliers. If you do that sort of thing for fun or profit, well then, your choice is made. If, OTOH you need open a knife blade while pulling on a vine, you are a candidate for a New Wave. Even buying on impulse, you can't go wrong. Most often, any of them will do. Have fun shopping :D
 
Since you are already familiar with SAKs, and I assume you will be carrying it in tandem with a MultiTool, it is a good choice to go with the familiar Victorinox Tools (SwissTool or Spirit).

For starters, you can get the SwissTool Spirit. It is sleek, ergonomic, compact and user fiendly. However, the knifeblade on it is a serrated sheepsfoot type. For heavier duty, get a SwissTool X or RS.

If you like quick access to knives, saw and file, you could also choose between the Leatherman Charge Ti and Wave 2004. The Wave 2004 is basically the same as a Charge Ti sans Titanium scales, 154CM blade & bit kit. They are compact at 4" and are plenty tough for most jobs. They can also be carried clipped to your pocket.

=)
 
Since some European countries have laws about the types of blades you can carry, a Victorinox Swisstool Spirit may be the one, with its blunt-tipped knife blade. This is the one I pack when traveling to Europe, and on many other occasions as well. My other favorite is the Leatherman Surge, which I carry when I KNOW my multi tool is going to get a workout.
 
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