Multi Tool Recommendation?

Chris Pierce · May 5, 2011

Currently I EDC an Alox Farmer and a large one handed folder (3 1/2 to 4" blade). I pretty much just use the screw drivers and the bottle opener on the sak. I like having a saw handy too though. I want a pocket clip, a large one handed blade, screw drivers bottle/can opener, pliers and maybe a saw blade. Is there a multitool that will cover my needs? I don't want two blades, a file bit driver and a bunch of other junk that I won't use.

I really liked the look of the Skeletool but it's tiny.

BiggDaddy485 · May 5, 2011

I know it has a few extra bells and whistles, but the Leatherman Charge or Wave does have what you're looking for.. If the Skeletool is too small, then I think the Charge and Wave would be a good size without getting into the supertool 300.. Check out the new Leatherman MUT as well.. Nutnfancy did a good booth review and spent a while on the MUT (not enough scissors though).. It's too bad the juice lineup doesnt include a model with a saw..

Victorinox makes some nice tools too, I just don't really have any hands on experience with them.. Maybe some of the other guys know more about the Vics

kozak6 · May 6, 2011

If you want a multitool, it sounds like you want a Leatherman. Victorinox's multitools don't have one-hand blades and you'd have to use a Nite Ize Eclipse for a clip.

Some of Wenger's Ranger series SAK's come pretty close.

richard thurman · May 6, 2011

gerber are the best.A customer completly destroyed one and because he was so good to me I went ahead and swaped it out with a new one for him. I sent just the tool back to get fixed and they sent back a brand new one usa made and gave me a brand new pouch and the key so I could change the cutters on the plyer.

EnduringEagle · May 6, 2011

I have the Charge ALX with the 154cm blade the wave is 420 steel. Highly recommend it and the extra bits that come with it has saved the day more than once. It is worth the extra couple of bucks.

Quirt · May 8, 2011

Richard what is a good model to get from Gerber? I know nothing about their products. If you could only get one Multi tool from them and cost is not a concern which tool provides the most capability for a tool that will go in a vehicle EDC BOB.

BoxANT · May 9, 2011

Leatherman Wingman will be out soon, sounds like it fits the bill (and should be under $30). Sprung pliers, essential tools and pocket clip.

Also a Leatherman Juice is a great EDC, no pocket clip tho.

Harayasu · May 10, 2011

The Wingman looks great. I especially like the size and design of the scissors.

hung-solo · May 11, 2011

i have a gerber (the large one cant remember the name), a SOG and now a LM Wave. the SOG and the Gerber has been really good to me and i will continue to use both. i just have never owned a larger LM (i won a micra from marlboro) and all are of great quality. you cannot go wrong with either. just find one that has everything you need and buy it. all will last years if properly maintained

znapschatz · May 11, 2011

BiggDaddy485 said:
I know it has a few extra bells and whistles, but the Leatherman Charge or Wave does have what you're looking for.. If the Skeletool is too small, then I think the Charge and Wave would be a good size without getting into the supertool 300.. Check out the new Leatherman MUT as well.. Nutnfancy did a good booth review and spent a while on the MUT (not enough scissors though).. It's too bad the juice lineup doesnt include a model with a saw..

Agree with the above, except that there are two Juice models with saws. Of them, the XE6 has more implements than OP wants, but a CS4 is almost perfect. Attach a Nite Ize eCLIPse and all requirements would be satisfied.

Chris Pierce · May 21, 2011

Thanks for the recommendations. I think I am going to try out the leatherman side kick when it comes out. Until then I will just carry a pair of pliers in my back pocket.

Gareth UK · May 25, 2011

Quirt said:
Richard what is a good model to get from Gerber? I know nothing about their products. If you could only get one Multi tool from them and cost is not a concern which tool provides the most capability for a tool that will go in a vehicle EDC BOB.

I know I'm not Richard but I thought I'd jump in here anyway.

I'd recommend a PM600 of some kind. The 600 has a load of different variations so look around for one that suits you. A popular option would be one with the replaceable cutters for example, but it's not a feature on all 600's.

EnduringEagle · Aug 21, 2011

EnduringEagle said:
I have the Charge ALX with the 154cm blade the wave is 420 steel. Highly recommend it and the extra bits that come with it has saved the day more than once. It is worth the extra couple of bucks.

+1 on this. I have it and worth every penny.