SOG powerlock or LM Core? think i'm almost there ;)

S

SkaerE

Joined
Sep 9, 2001
Messages
428
again, replacing my Gerber mulltitool (and cutting wires the other day I remember one more reason why!) damn that thing can pinch you.

anyhow, i believe both of these have the crap I want on them, and they're comparable in price. just can't choose!

insights anyone? anyone have both?

FWIW I work primarily in the underground cable install business, but camping/backpacking would be its other role.

thanks!
 
I've got both the core and powerlock as well as other multi tools. I guess it really depends on what features you like best and need the most. For me, I rate the two as follows:

Core - best implements, best cutting blades and saw, easiest to open and access the blades and implements, best locks: probably better for the camping and hiking requirements

Powerlock - strongest pliers (those gears do actually work!), best cutters for all sorts of wire (the core as well as other leatherman tools often seem to bind up with stranded wire, especially smaller guages), best crimpers: probably better for the cable work requirements

I change my multi tool carry from time to time, and find things that I like and dislike about both tools. I think my "perfect" multi tool would utilize the Sog's pliers and cutters and the Leatherman's implements.
 
Not to beat an issue to death, but if you are leaning more towards the Leatherman side you might want to try to hunt down a Supertool 200 before you buy a Core. I have carried one off and on for a couple of years now and even though the Core is the newer and "upgraded" version, I have to admit that I like the Supertool better. Basically all the same tools, same configuration and such, but the Supertool just seems to fit in the hand better. Though I own several Leatherman multi tools, my original little PST I purchased while in the service and the Supertool 200 I received for a birthday gift 3 or so years ago get a lot more use and carrying than the newer models I've acquired the last couple of years.
 
PowerLock vs. Core – I agree with jtb49er2000‘s assessments.

I would pick the PowerLock if I was primarily interested in the pliers/wire cutters/crimper because of the compound leverage gears. Otherwise, I would go with the Core which has much better tools that are easier to access (no clumping and no wings to fold and unfold), and no gear teeth to dig into your hand when you are using them.


I disagree on the Core vs. the Super Tool 200, I think that the Core is an improvement in just about every way, except for the added weight (about 2 oz heavier), the shape of the serrated blade (goofy looking reverse tanto instead of a sheep’s foot) and the lanyard ring that no longer folds out of the back of the handles because of the new lock design.


The Core’s locks are much better than the ST200’s and I find the handles to be more comfortable. Most of the Core’s tools are a little bigger and they don’t clump! The Core’s hollow ground screw drivers are very nice also.





- Frank
 
I prefer the core. Leatherman is really the best of the bunch in my opinion, not to take away from any of the others, I just think they are always trying to catch up to Leatherman.
 
Aren't there situations where two pliers are needed to tighten something? Buy both! :)
 
WadeF said:
Aren't there situations where two pliers are needed to tighten something? Buy both! :)
Click to expand...

That is very much more overly redundant than is really necessary. For those jobs I carry a 6 inch adjustible wrench, which tucks neatly into a Nite Ize pocket, along with multitool, flashlight and sandwich.

I hope this helps?
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top