- Joined
- Jan 24, 2005
- Messages
- 2,792
Although the bit holders at times provide too stubby drivers, the accessory bit extender changes all that. So far, my experience with the bit kit has overall been good. Carrying the Charge has allowed me to dispense with a dedicated blade if I choose to carry light. It's a matter of options, and after all, nothing prevents me from adding a dedicated folder to the daily pocket burden if I want. BTW, I really like the Spirit "butterknife" blade, think it's a good configuration for a multitool, makes a great complement for a dedicated folder. That said, the Charge has two good blades and a gutting hook, all of which provides much versatility in compact form.
Can't agree with you about scissors, the Spirit's don't open wide enough. I can't imagine how much use they would be on anything other than fishing line, threads, or nose hair. Comparing can openers, I tested a Spirit and Charge against each other and found them to work about the same. While the Spirit bottle opener works better, the Charge's multiple purpose unit gets the job done well enough. Because either are implements of convenience rather than dedicated, I don't hold either to high standards so long as I get my beer
.Vic build quality is great, Leatherman is good enough. The only thing I have ever done to a Leatherman product that required repair (once) was my fault and would have probably done in a Vic. Implement capability is more important to me than elegant finish, and after experience with both, my choice is Leatherman. My comments are not intended to persuade anyone that one is "better" than another, but to demonstrate how personal a multitool choice can be.
Well, I never thought of it that way, but for those who feel they have the need, why not? I see no reason to draw negative attention if it can be avoided. When it comes to social interactions, I prefer to not scare folks or
piss them off.
Normally, dedicated tools for "serious" purposes are preferable, although sometimes I get into situations where they are not at hand. OTOH, I always have a multitool on my person, and usually it will do the job. Most recently that was yesterday, when during a heavy rain my driver side windshield wiper stopped working (third time in 13 years, different cars
) As soon as possible, I pulled over to the roadside shoulder, tightened the nut holding the wiper, and was on my way. Later, I finished the job properly with a wrench. Often, my Charge outfit, complete with accessories in a belted nylon sheath, is all the tool kit I can carry for my regular work, which is photography. On location (most of the time), I have so much other stuff to carry there is no room for a real tool kit, but sometimes a light stand or something needs minor repair, usually within the capability of my Charge. Since I work mostly alone, a one hand opening blade is a real convenience when I have to hold a roll of seamless paper in place with one hand while cutting off a length. Used to carry a Delica for that, but the Charge makes that unnecessary. For ordinary EDC, I carry just the Charge by shoestring belt hanger into RF pocket, hardly feel it there.
Frankly, I don't do too many nasty jobs; at least, not requiring tools
.Can't speculate about how others may react, but I feel no hot flashes or humiliation.
You say tomato and I say tomatoe.
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