I've got numerous multi-tools, the SOG Powerlock being one of them. I like how it feels in the hand and how it's able to be flipped open like a butterfly knife. The pliers are very strong, the cutters have cut everything I've put in its path from small gauge security wiring to larger solid gauge electrical wire. The crimpers are very powerful and effective as well.
Now the downside (at least for me) - Without the little handle guard flaps the handles bite into the hands like the old Leatherman PST did. So, it's pretty much required to leave the handle guards on - doesn't seem like a big deal, but it's a real hassle to have to open the handle flaps everytime one needs to access a blade in the handles. Also, the gears that provide so much leverage while squeezing the pliers are a real double edged sword when any of the blades are in use as the gears dig directly into the palm of the hand. Very hard to get any useful torque that way and hard to use it more than once or twice a day - in other words, not good for all day use as a tool substitute. The knife blade design is terrible and one of the worst I've personally seen on a multi-tool, and the scissors barely cut notebook paper. The Phillips screwdriver is said to be a #1 size, and it apparently is as turning #2 sized screws is pretty difficult when compared to other multi-tools. I personally run into a lot more #2 screws than #1.
All and all I would say that it couldbe a decent multi-tool depending on the user's needs and plans. My Powerlock definitely has all my other multi-tools beat in the plier, cutting, and crimping department, but lacks in every other facet. I've found the Leatherman Supertool 200 to be the best compromise of size and functionality so far out of all the multi-tools I've handled. I know you said you had a lemon from Leatherman, but you still might want to take a look at a Supertool 200 if you get the chance. As always though, the final decision really boils down to the end user's needs and wants.
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