SOG PowerLock TiNi or Leatherman Charge TI XTI

[stealthnet]

I currently own a PowerLock with the titanium nitride coating on the handles. This tool is awesome, the compound leverage and smooth opening of the pliers are great.... plus every tool locks. I previously owned the first generation of the Wave and got rid of it because I liked the PowerLock better.

Now the new Leatherman Charge has gotten my interest... The built in bit holder that can be carried is a nice touch, where as the PowerLock has a regular 1/4" adapter and a seperate pouch is needed. I've searched all over here for comparison posts between the PowerLock and Charge but was not able to find any. Everyone tends to compare the Swisstool instead. Anyone with experience with a PowerLock willing to give some insight into which tool is superior? Thanks in advance.

 

[Mr.Moose]

I have a Leatherman XT Charge and love it. You will get different opinions on the usefulness of the bit drives. The XTi gives you two large bit drivers, which may provide more utility than the XT (which I have).

If you use the scissors alot you may want to wait for the new Leatherman Surge. It is like the new wave but with removable saw/file blades, and the scissors can be opend on the outside.

-Moose.

 

[klattman]

I compared the LM Charge with the SOG TiNi before I eventually got the SOG. Why?

1. SOG has one-handed pliers and wirecutters (use a lot).
2. User-replaceabe parts.
3. Can customize bits and purchase different tools. (I removed the 1/4" driver and replaced it with a chisel/prytool and a serrated gut-hook blade.)
4. TiNi finish is great.
5. Compound leverage is very nice, esp. for the wirecutters. (cut coins anyone
6. The LM bits are too short (because the pliers are bigger than in the old wave, but tool is about the same size) and do not fit very well into recesses.

The only advantage I see to the charge is the awesome 154CM one handed blade, and the ability to get specific bits if you use them. I always have a small knife on me anyway, and I don't need specialty bits often at all. (If I do, I usually have a tool box or a set of some kind handy). The benefits I listed outweigh the charge advantages for me anyway.

I only decided after I played with the charge at a store (never got to see the sog first-hand before I got it). I suggest you take an up close and personal look at the charge before you decide...

P. S. After reading your post again, it seems like you might make full use of the bit drivers on the charge.. worth a look at a store.

 

[enkidu]

I tried the SOG Powerlock in a passaround a while back, but two things really turned me off about it: First, it is really large. Much heavier and bulkier than the LM Wave (which is pretty comparable to the LM Charge); it is more than a 1/2" longer, heavier and much less "hand friendly" than the Wave. Second, the bigger problem, was the compound leverage. Yes, it is great when you want to apply more power. BUT when you want to open the pliers more, it just don't happen. Also, when you close the jaws completely shut, there is practically no room for your fingers, let alone gloved fingers.

I do wish leatherman tools could be easily customized and one could order other tools (cough! awl! cough!). I chose to stick with my Wave and have been very happy. Although the allure of a Charge or SwissTool is growing stronger every month.

 

[klattman]

I tried the SOG Powerlock in a passaround a while back, but two things really turned me off about it: First, it is really large. Much heavier and bulkier than the LM Wave (which is pretty comparable to the LM Charge); it is more than a 1/2" longer, heavier and much less "hand friendly" than the Wave.

Yes the SOG PLock is one of the biggest and heaviest.

Second, the bigger problem, was the compound leverage. Yes, it is great when you want to apply more power. BUT when you want to open the pliers more, it just don't happen.

The compund leverage is always there, BUT that means when you open the jaws, the handles have to open more than normal. When the handles get too far open, it's harder to squeeze. When that happens, I simply "choke-up" on the handles a bit or switch to two hands for more force.

Also, when you close the jaws completely shut, there is practically no room for your fingers, let alone gloved fingers.

This is true, it is necessary though because of how far the handles must move due to the leverage. For small things, you can "choke-down" toward the end of the handles to make more finger room.

I carried a wave for many years, and, after going through many tools, I still like the SOG the best. The Charge looks good, and if it just had longer bits, I would probably switch because the blade is worth it.

 

[enkidu]

klattman, good points. Both are top quality tools and in the end it boils down to what fits you best. Vive le difference!

 

[aquina]

I have the TiNi SOG Powerlock as well.

klattman made some excellent points. One thing I really like about the Powerlock is the ability to flick it open. (Is that what you meant by one handed pliers?) It is not the most exciting tool but it performs well on everything I have thrown at it. And the TiNi coating stands up really well to use. I have had mine now for a couple of years and it still looks like new.

aquina