Swiss Tool Durability (versus Leatherman)

[sailfish]

So I've always kept a MT on me at work for backup but recently I've been carrying one in my personal time too and as a result I've been bit by the multi-tool bug. Having always had a taste for fit and finish and consistent quality control, I've found myself intrigued by the Swiss Tool, specifically, the Spirit. Which given my use of MTs in the trades, begs the question of hard use durability. How does the Swiss Tool (Spirit) compare to Leatherman in terms of durability? I haven't had any issues with LM personally but I've read about others breaking pliers and such as well as Vic using forged pliers which LM apparently doesn't. Does the Swiss precision come at the expense of toughness or is it quite the opposite? How are the plier teeth? The cutters and drivers? Any experience or thoughtful input is appreciated.

 

[Archibald Tuttle]

My opinion is purely ancedotal and not from a large sample group. I absolutely liked the early LM designs. I carried a Pulse and Wave (original design ). Both were returned several times under warranty for the tips of the needle nose and philips drivers frequently breaking. Around 2007 I began using a Victorinox Spirit #53800 and have not been disappointed. I work in building automation that involves commercial electrical, hvac, locksmith & IT duties. The blunt needle nose of the Spirit can have limitations in reach. The high polish finish can be a detriment in wet hands. The philips is prone to deforming and needing a reprofiling and redress. Although I use the Spirit frequently and heavily, IMO , multitools by nature are a compromise. They definitely are not a replacement for dedicated tools. I work with a eclectic group, the choice in multitool can quickly turn into a Ford vs. Chevy argument that I generally stay out of.

 

[kobold]

My Swisstool (with the reversed pivot) is from the previous century, I keep it on the bedside table. It is still like new, with a good action, nothing is loose or broken, and I use it weekly.
Nowadays I carry a Spirit because it is more convenient, but they share the same build quality, the Spirit should also last forever.
I sold my Leatherman Rebar which I liked, but I was always fumbling - trying to deploy a specific tool would pull all of them out. IDK if all Leathermans are like this, but that was it for me - the lack of detent.

 

[A.L.]

Mine is pretty well used but still mostly butter smooth (opening some tools is bit hard). I believe the Finnish armed forced picked Victorinox (even has specific model in the non-spirit line) because it was the only one that survived plier torture test.