Leatherman Skeletool - Honest Opinions?

[defiantsadist]

I've went to many different sites, read many different reviews, but what are your guys' opinions on this new tool?

I want a Leatherman but being the person I am I like the new and exciting, if you own a leatherman and have handled this one... how does it compare in terms of comfort in the hand, ease of use, etc.

Thanks for Your Time,
Steven

 

[navihawk]

All I've done is see them on the web. I would like one to strap to the backpack.No matter what they make though the original Wave is it.

 

[Dinkum]

For me, anything made by leatherman is going to be very functional. You really can't go wrong. I just wished they made 100% of it in the U.S. Not from any flag waving perspective, but just to show that, like the Swiss and Vic, big companies don't need to sell out and move manufacturing abroad to stay at the top of the game.

 

[miro44]

i thought only the old leathermans were produced abroad, but i might be wrong.on-topic:i havent got one, just seen alot of pictures and a few reviews, looks pretty nice if you ask me.

 

[Steely_Gunz]

i thought only the old leathermans were produced abroad, but i might be wrong.on-topic:i havent got one, just seen alot of pictures and a few reviews, looks pretty nice if you ask me.

Most all of Leatherman's stuff is assembled here in the states, which is good. However, the factory that makes most of the plier heads is in mexico. Honestly, it doesn't bother me too much. I have a Byrdrench that is manufactured in China, and it is one of the finest fit and finish tools that I own:thumbup:

The jury is still out for me regarding the Skeletool. I have really been salivating for it over the last several months. Had Leatherman not goofed up the release date, then it would have been the number one on my Christmas wish list from the wife this year. Instead, I got the Byrdrench which seems to be as compact (but heavier) that can do most everything that the Skeletool can do and then some. Both are sort of gadgety and niche marketed, but we'll see. If the knife blade turns out to be a usable size and the ergos are good, then maybe the wife can pick me one up for my birthday in February

 

[supratentorial]

Here's an email from Leatherman that was posted on Fatwallet.com a while back:

Thank you for contacting us regarding where our tools are made.

About 5 years ago we made this change to our tool production in response
to a California state law. The law says that any product with even a
small part of foreign content cannot be labeled "Made in USA" if it is
sold in California.

Since California is a large market for us, we decided to change our
tools to ensure we comply with the law.

The foreign content of our tools is very, very small. A few components
(like files) are sent to Europe for final finishing and the jaws are
cast in Mexico. Everything else about our tools - including the design,
the steel, the component forming, most finishing and sharpening, and all
assembly, is done in the USA.

It doesn't bother me either, to be honest.

I didn't get a chance to go to the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market so I haven't seen the Skeletool in person but I'm not completely sold on the design. The blade looks good but the small pliers, the large carabineer, and the unusual design of the driver (i.e. handles must be open to use the driver) are a turnoff for me. But I could change my mind once I actually see one in person.

 

[Dantor]

I don't think any of us have one yet (they keep delaying) but I'm looking forward to it. It doesn't have many tools but I do like the look of the blade (the PE version, not serrated/combo). What I really like is the weight of it, nice and light for a larger size tool. Hopefully in a month or so we'll have better reviews...