Would you choose the Vic Swiss Tool Spirit or the Spirit S? Is it correct that the Spirit is 84 mm and the Spirit S 105 mm? If so, does the larger size of the Spirit S give a big advantage? Also, how good is the Spirit compared to Leatherman?
BTW, any comments on the serrated blade of the Spirit?
I'd rather have a good straight edge blade than crappy scissors. Those on the Spirit are tiny things, good for cutting string or fish line, but little else. It isn't irksome enough to want to dump my Spirit in exchange, but knowing what I do now, I would choose the Spirit S.
In its size category, the Spirit is awesome, but when I am anticipating the possibility of serious work, I prefer the Leatherman Core. It has two advantages over the Spirit:
1. bigger and heavier, which translates into that little extra for tougher jobs. I have cut thick wire with the Core that defeated my Spirit (hold the metaphysical wisecracks
) and have occasionally used it as a hammer, not such a good idea with the Spirit. Also, the plier jaws open wider, and the screwdrivers are ground sharp.
2. Although all Spirit implements can be accessed without opening the tool, that is offset by having to raise them by nail with spring prressure the whole way. That gets old if the tool is coming out often on a job. Core tools are not under spring tension until their are out enough to grab them with out using a thumbnaill, in fact can be lifted out with work gloves on, if you want. Much easier, IMHO.
I carry the Core for work, Spirit for out and about. Or sometimes the other way around.
After initial doubts, I find the serrated blade is terrific. It is easily resharpened with a Sharpmaker. I think you will like it, too.
