Multi tool selection help

T

TFin04

Joined
Aug 21, 2005
Messages
1,494
Hey fella's,

I am searching for a multi tool. I don't currently own one and quite frankly, have never found a use for one. I always felt the tools on there were okay, but was raised to use the right tool for the job. A multi tool is not a screw driver, it is not a file, and it is not a pair of scissors. In a pinch it will work, but I always had the "real" tools handy and never saw use for a bunch of "okay" tools thrown together on a folding tool. One other item I didn't like is generally the knife blades are junk. Cheap steel, bad grinds and just overall not what I want from an expensive pocket tool.

I have recently been getting more into backpacking/hiking where I cannot afford to take all of the proper tools for the job. I need a nice multi tool to accomplish most tasks I might find out on the trail or in the woods.

I'm hoping that you guys with your love of fine knives can help steer me in the right direction.

Here are the main tools I need:

- Pliers (obviously)
- A saw that is capable of cutting 1-2" thick branches with relative ease (kindling, shelter or trap building, etc)
- A file that works
- A serrated blade (the better the steel the better)
- Can opener that can actually open cans
- Scissors would be nice
- Flathead screw driver
- Phillips screw driver

Now a lot of companies offer these options, but who does it the best? I'm currently eying the SOG Powerlocks. The blade itself doesn't really matter because I'm always carrying one or two good knives. I figure a serrated blade on my multi tool wouldn't hurt to help maintain the edge and cut more aggressively.

I've handled the older Gerber models and was not impressed. Maybe they've gotten better.

So....based on that extremely wordy post, what would you recommend for an outdoors tool for someone who doesn't like using crappy gear? :D
 
- Pliers (obviously)
- A saw that is capable of cutting 1-2" thick branches with relative ease (kindling, shelter or trap building, etc)
- A file that works
- A serrated blade (the better the steel the better)
- Can opener that can actually open cans
- Scissors would be nice
- Flathead screw driver
- Phillips screw driver
Click to expand...

Suggestions:
+Leatherman Wave/Charge/Surge= Best Files, OH Blades, Charge has higher end steel on the main (PE) blade.

+Victorinox Spirit or SwissTool X= Excellent fit/finish, best implement selection, virtually rust proof.

+SOG PowerLock= Best pliers, easy availability of parts allow customization of the implement selection.

+Gerber MP600 Pro-Scout= Saw coupler allows different type/size saws to be interchanged out.

Size-wise, the SwissTool X/Surge/Powerlock are extra-large tools. 4.5" closed and @9-13 ounces. The other tools are smaller and slightly less capable in certain instances but easier to carry.

Those are the best of the best that have all the requirements you've listed above. If I were you I'd buy a Charge but all the above tools will serve you well and are about equal overall once you factor in the operating/implement/design differences.
 
The more I've been reading the more I'm leaning toward the SOG Powerlock. I like that I can replace the factory blade with a fully serrated one. They are also cheaper than the Leatherman.

So with it pretty much between a SOG Powerlock and the Leatherman Surge...which would you guys pick?
 
TFin04 said:
The more I've been reading the more I'm leaning toward the SOG Powerlock. I like that I can replace the factory blade with a fully serrated one. They are also cheaper than the Leatherman.

So with it pretty much between a SOG Powerlock and the Leatherman Surge...which would you guys pick?
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Sorry to be contrary, but neither in my book. Both are way overkill for backpacking, in my opinion. They are large and among the heaviest of multi-tools, the SOG coming in at 9.6oz and the Surge at 12.5oz. The SOG Powerlock is built like a tank, but also feels like one to use: the pliers give you extra leverage at the cost of having a much smaller open size. Also, the blades and tools are much less convenient to get to, especially compared to the Wave/Charge or Spirit.

Similarly, the SwissTool (at 10oz) is also way overkill. The tools are, however, more conveniently located and if you wanted something big and beefy, I'd pick the SwissTool over the SOG because of tool convenience and over the Surge because of weight.

For backpacking, if you aren't going to carry an extra knife, I'd go with the Leatherman Wave/Charge (both around 8.5oz) or Victorinox Spirit (7.2oz). The Leatherman Blast + FRN knife is also an option.
 
I would suggest and recommend a Victorinox Spirit. It has the tools you want, it's made great (smooth action and quality), it's light and easy to EDC/carry and it has a lifetime warranty.
 
S P I R I T !!!

I have had several multi-tools including the Sog powerlock, and much prefer the Vic Spirit to all.
 
A couple ounces extra weight won't kill ya. This is what I recommend from personal use; Leatherman Wave (new or old model), SOG Powerlock (with gear covers), Leatherman Supertool or Supertool 200, Leatherman Core.
 
Hmm. Lot of people for the Spirit. I'll have to give it a good look. Going to do some research now. :)
 
TFin04 said:
Hmm. Lot of people for the Spirit. I'll have to give it a good look. Going to do some research now. :)
Click to expand...

Research is good, but only actually using them will tell which M-T is best for you. The Spirit is every bit as beautifully designed and well made as its enthusiasts report. After a good trial period of several months, however, I went back to my Leatherman Charge, which I think offers (mostly) better tools, a premium steel PE blade with one hand opening, an additional serrated blade and pocket clip, all with only one ounce additional weight over the Spirit. IMHO, both are good choices, but it's really a subjective call about what works best for each individual.
 
This tool will be carried in a bag and I don't intend for it to be an EDC item. Pocket clips and weight aren't a huge issue for me.

For you spirit fans, do you like the ratchet or the wrench model?
 
If weight isn't an issue for you go for the large-size SwissTool X instead. It's more capable than the Spirit in a wider range of uses.
 
I did a lot of reading today and went down to the local sporting goods store to handle a few of them.

I've decided on a Leatherman Charge TTi. The most expensive, but also has exactly what I want with good quality blades and other features I can use.

They didn't sell the Charge there but they had a wave for me to mess with which is close.

I'm ordering one online right now. :)
 
Great choice! The Charge is a fine piece of equipment backed up with a solid warrantee.
 
Abacus said:
Should have gone with Victorinox over leatherman. Better price, better quality.
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Unless there are pressing financial reasons involved (dead broke:grumpy:), price at these levels should be a small consideration for something that is seldom purchased and intended for long term use. Even at twice the price, factored over years the cost difference is negligible.

There is no question that Victorinox designs and construction are top quality, but IMHO, Leatherman is well made and most of its implements are superior as working tools. Compared to Swisstool Spirit: the Charge has better shaped needlenose plier jaws that open wider; sharp cut screwdrivers less likely to slip; 2 knife blades, one made of 154 cm SS and both of which can be opened one handed; versatile bit holders allowing extended versatility; diamond coated file; pocket clip. I own both, admire the Spirit, EDC the Charge.
 
znapschatz said:
Unless there are pressing financial reasons involved (dead broke:grumpy:), price at these levels should be a small consideration for something that is seldom purchased and intended for long term use. Even at twice the price, factored over years the cost difference is negligible.

There is no question that Victorinox designs and construction are top quality, but IMHO, Leatherman is well made and most of its implements are superior as working tools. Compared to Swisstool Spirit: the Charge has better shaped needlenose plier jaws that open wider; sharp cut screwdrivers less likely to slip; 2 knife blades, one made of 154 cm SS and both of which can be opened one handed; versatile bit holders allowing extended versatility; diamond coated file; pocket clip. I own both, admire the Spirit, EDC the Charge.
Click to expand...

Well said.:thumbup:
 
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