Which SOG Multitool?

[Lock1454]

So I have a Leatherman Charge TTi and a Vic Swisstool Spirit, and I reckon it's only a matter of time before I breakdown and get a SOG multitool. Any recommendations as to which particular tool to shoot for when I (very easily) breakdown?

Since you can buy the different implements separately and alter the tool configurations, does it really matter which one you get beyond the Pocket Plier (too small for some tools?) and the Power Assist (if I want assisted blades - this is the only SOG with 1-handed blades, right?).

 

[supratentorial]

Yep, the PowerAssist is the only SOG with 1-handed blades. Either the PowerAssist or the PowerLock 2.0 would be my recommendations. I prefer the newer style PowerLocks with the gear covers and improved wire cutter and pliers.

Spirit wire cutter jammed on stranded wire.

The Pocket PowerPlier is also a good choice if you want something small--it's similar to the Leatherman PST. The SwitchPlier is pretty cool but I've never really considered carrying mine. My least favorites are the ParaTool (though it has its merits) and the keychain-size SOG multi-tools.

 

[Lock1454]

Thx for the pliers porn

 

[Steely_Gunz]

I would go with the Powerlock or the Power Assist (well, I assume I would go with the PA. I haven't handled one yet, but it is on my short list)

I have a wide range of pliers-based multi-tools. Tiny to extra super duty in size and function. While I really do see the merits of a medium sized tool like a PST or Fuse or even a Wave, I find that for me personally I usually fall into needing one of three categories.

Tiny tools like the Squirt or SOG Crossgrip. These are nice for pocket carry when I need a little tool to turn the odd screw or scrap a fingernail. Usually used in very knife un-friendly settings.

Very pocketable tools like the Skeletool. 9 times out of 10, all I need is a blade, some pliers, and some kind of driver. The Skele does this in spades.

Finally, and actually thread relevant, Super Duty chunky tools for days that I have real work to do. My tool of choice for this is the SOG Powerlock (maybe the Assist if I get one and like it). I have carried numerous other big tools, but the PL has done everything I have asked of it and come back for more. I like that it is highly polished and nearly rust-proof (something post 2004 LM tools seem to be lacking in from my experience). I also like that the internal tools are easily replaced if but a little on the crude side. I'm fine with this. I am of the mindset that I would rather crank on my driver, bend it, and buy a new one for a couple bucks than bend one that has to be sent back for warranty repair.

Now, if SOG would only figure out how to make a tool with external blades that did not require mechanisms that eat up an entire side of the tool real estate. Seems like a bit of a waste to have one whole side of the tool do nothing but house two spring loaded blades. That's the only thing that has kept me from buying a PA.

 

[Doug S]

Is the SOG Powerlock still made in the U.S.A.? I notice they've changed the logo, and it no longer reads U.S.A.

 

[supratentorial]

The instruction sheet for both the PowerLock and the PowerAssist say made in the USA. I don't want to start any rumors but I received some PowerLock components and the invoice appeared to indicate a foreign origin. It wouldn't surprise me if some of the components were made overseas and assembled in the USA (like Leatherman). Chris at SOG could probably tell you more: http://www.sogknives.com/contact/index.php

 

[kingofgreens]

I just ordered a B66 N from Amazon. Got really lucky & found one "like new" used one for just under 44 bucks. I did a lot of thinking & examining the options & decided on this model based on which tools I wanted to start out with. I know I'll get use from the philips driver & the V cutter. I plan to get the double tooth saw blade as well & probably replace the bottle opener.

 

[PJ Garrison]

I'm not a fan of SOGs multitools and wouldn't reccomend any of them. I rank them near the middle of the pack as far as innovation and execution are concerned.

I used to have a Paratool (which I found in the army), but I was never fond of the design. The funky side-fold pliers really aren't that useful, and it reduces the usefulness of the other tools to make that tool work. I've got a Crossgrip (the little keychain pilers), but I'm not fond of it either. The gears stick out when folded and are unpleasantly sharp, and the handles are uncomfortable.

Leatherman, in my opinion, is way ahead of anybody else in the multitool game, and there are a lot of great tools in their catalogue. I am a big fan of the Micra, the Kick, and the Wave. I also liked the original Super-Tool.