Send in or Keep? Leatherman Super Tool

F

FordRanger

Joined
Mar 16, 2015
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I found a used Leatherman Super Tool recently, it is on the way to me currently so I figured I'd get some input on this while I wait. This is my first Leatherman, I've been using a Gerber, no idea the model but its just not great and the sheath is horrible, so I decided I must get a Leatherman. After some deliberation I decided that for what I want I might as well save some money and get a used original Super Tool. The main blade has the tip broken off. From pictures I don't see anything else wrong with it, so part of me wants to reprofile the blade into either a spear point or sheepsfoot blade and just keep on using it. At the same time, I know I can send it in and have the blade replaced or possibly get a brand new ST 300; but I'm not sure I want that. I kind of like the old ones, they're what I'm used to using when borrowed from friends and family. Anyhow, its a bit of a dilemma for me, so what would you do? I'll get some pics up when it gets here.

Note: either way the blade won't get used often unless someone is borrowing it, I always have some sort of folder with me so the blade tip isn't really a big issue.
 
I would see what the state of the rest of the tool is. if its useable, then go for it. if its loosened up too far, it might be really awkward to use. it will be the pliers that decide it for you I think.
 
If there was a model worth having about from the old line up
It has to be the old 200 super leatherman.
A tough old brute
But yeah, a lot depands on the condition of the entire used tool itself.
Hardly worth having dead weight outdoors if it doesn't deliver proper function...
Either that or treat it as just something for home use.
 
Thanks for the sound advice, this is going to be an EDC so it definitely needs to function properly. Some might think I'm crazy for carrying a 4.5in super tool everywhere, but in my life its ridiculous how often I've needed a big sturdy set of pliers with no tools anywhere near. (And even then I keep an extensive set of tools in my truck) so its either get a big, beefy Leatherman or carry around a set of linesman pliers or other type in a plier holster. I do that sometimes, but they're too long and bulky to feel comfortable enough to EDC, while the weight doesn't really bother me.
 
Grind down the tip and use it. It's a good EDC. I carried one, plus a Micra, for 9 years. It was easy to belt carry, and never let me down when needed. My only issues with it were the thin handle edges when crunching down on something with the pliers, finessed by padding my palm with work glove or folded bandana I always carry. There was also an awkward and potentially hazardous blade unlocking procedure, a bit time consuming but not enough to get tempted by the ST200. Unlocking that one was easier to deal with, but I didn't care for the sheep foot redesign of the serrated blade. IMO, the tool set on the original was just about right.
Although I still appreciate the slimmer contours and lighter weight of the original, eventually I was won over by the Charge TTi OH blade opening plus bit system. Later, the Super Tool 300 refinements were enough worthwhile to make the switch. But I still like my original and sometimes use it for something or another. I love the sound it makes when folding up the handles.
 
Quick update, its here, going to use it some and see how I like it as-is. That snapped blade tip is just begging to be made into a sheepsfoot..

I just realized I can go compare it side-by-side to an ST300 at Walmart, that will decide it for me!
 
One more update, The blade lock is snapped off, like the previous owner didn't know how the lock worked. I like the level of tightness of everything, and I have used it a little for small tasks, but it definitely needs to be sent in. The blade and the awl next to it do not lock, and can now open further than 180 degrees. It is unfortunate, as I love the feel and size of this tool! I'm going to have to browse the bay for one in better condition to keep and do a side by side with the new one I get.
 
If it useable then keep it
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FordRanger said:
Thanks for the sound advice, this is going to be an EDC so it definitely needs to function properly. Some might think I'm crazy for carrying a 4.5in super tool everywhere, but in my life its ridiculous how often I've needed a big sturdy set of pliers with no tools anywhere near. (And even then I keep an extensive set of tools in my truck) so its either get a big, beefy Leatherman or carry around a set of linesman pliers or other type in a plier holster. I do that sometimes, but they're too long and bulky to feel comfortable enough to EDC, while the weight doesn't really bother me.
Click to expand...

If you're only wanting a sturdy set of pliers and don't care about the rest, you might be better served by picking up a 5 inch pair of Knipex Cobras. Barely longer than a closed ST, but a lot lighter and stronger. You lose the needle nose and the cutters though.
 
Kiah said:
If you're only wanting a sturdy set of pliers and don't care about the rest, you might be better served by picking up a 5 inch pair of Knipex Cobras. Barely longer than a closed ST, but a lot lighter and stronger. You lose the needle nose and the cutters though.
Click to expand...

I often carry a pair of Channellocks (the brand, not just what everybody calls lock joint adjustable pliers; they're the best brand for the price IMHO) in a plier sheath for this reason, I've got quite a few types to choose from for whatever I might need, but normally they live in a tool bag. When I usually end up needing them is when I don't happen to have them on me. Plus If I started EDCing a pair of pliers all the time goodness knows I'd end up needing a screwdriver, awl, file, or saw more. Pliers are a big part of it, but I definitely need the whole tool. SAK's are great, but I often need bigger and stronger pliers than they offer, hence the need for a Leatherman. Between the specific tools included and the general durability of the Super Tool its perfect for me, but this one is damaged beyond what I'd be willing to use. Heck if I just needed the pliers I'd keep this one, they're still great! But I do want the whole package. Sending it back tomorrow, looking forward to seeing what comes back :thumbup::thumbup:
 
FordRanger said:
I often carry a pair of Channellocks (the brand, not just what everybody calls lock joint adjustable pliers; they're the best brand for the price IMHO) in a plier sheath for this reason, I've got quite a few types to choose from for whatever I might need, but normally they live in a tool bag. When I usually end up needing them is when I don't happen to have them on me. Plus If I started EDCing a pair of pliers all the time goodness knows I'd end up needing a screwdriver, awl, file, or saw more. Pliers are a big part of it, but I definitely need the whole tool. SAK's are great, but I often need bigger and stronger pliers than they offer, hence the need for a Leatherman. Between the specific tools included and the general durability of the Super Tool its perfect for me, but this one is damaged beyond what I'd be willing to use. Heck if I just needed the pliers I'd keep this one, they're still great! But I do want the whole package. Sending it back tomorrow, looking forward to seeing what comes back :thumbup::thumbup:
Click to expand...

I feel ya. You'll likely get an ST300 back. I have one and it's a great tool.
 
FordRanger said:
One more update, The blade lock is snapped off, like the previous owner didn't know how the lock worked. I like the level of tightness of everything, and I have used it a little for small tasks, but it definitely needs to be sent in. The blade and the awl next to it do not lock, and can now open further than 180 degrees. It is unfortunate, as I love the feel and size of this tool! I'm going to have to browse the bay for one in better condition to keep and do a side by side with the new one I get.
Click to expand...

Definitely send it in. I just posted this picture in another thread. It's very helpful to have the blade lock:

rebar3_zpsigi8gjfx.jpg


Gives you finer control of the blade for some tasks.
 
I just received a package from Leatherman today. Inside was a Super Tool 300. I'm definitely glad I sent it in, this thing is great! By some crazy coincidence I also needed to replace a washing machine water supply hose today and it was indispensable. It is exactly what I was needing in a multitool. It is noticeably larger than the original Super Tool, but I like the size. I also love how the edges of the handles are curved in, making it very comfortable to use as pliers, no sharp edges cutting into my hand when applying pressure. I really like this tool! But all this should go in its own review, I'll probably do one after a month or two of use. I still want an original Super Tool because of their slimness, but this is still great. In the end I think I paid about $36 for an ST300, though I wasn't really planning it. On the lock.. I like the original better.. The ST300 is easier to use, but if I put my thumb in the wrong place it will unlock the blade. Not a good thing, especially when using screwdrivers, awl, etc. where you are applying rotational lateral pressure. Its ok, I just have to be mindful of it when in use. Definitely better than sak screwdrivers trying to snap closed on every turn with tight screws.

Now... Anybody know where I can get a leather sheath that holds this and a Surefire G2? I realize its a huge package but I'm used to it.. I like the looks of the Skinth pouches, but I'd rather a leather sheath if I can find one.



I tried the buttstock pouch for an M1 Carbine just for the heck of it, but it is too short for the light, and too wide and loose to hold either securely. Maybe a 1911 WW2 double mag pouch would work, THAT would be a cool looking tool pouch! :thumbup::D
 
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Congrats on the new tool! :)

If you don't have any luck here finding a sheath, the guys over at multitool.org might help (lot of serious multitool collectors there). Try their forum.
 
Thanks! It is an awesome tool. The only thing is on the sheath it came with, the strap that makes up the belt loop ends up only being about a centimeter wide at the top and bottom, with only the edges being attached while the middle is open to allow horizontal carry. It just seems like a weak spot to me. I'd rather get to choose a horizontal or vertical carry sheath and have a stronger belt loop. If it weren't for this, I might be tempted to just use this sheath and a separate one for the light like I'm doing right now.

I might have to do that, the googling I've done so far hasn't turned up much for tool/light combos that large, so I'm thinking I'll either have to get a custom sheath done, make my own, or give up on wanting a leather one.
 
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