Leatherman Multitools: Advantages And Disadvantages Of Multi-tools. Characteristics Of Bracelets, Knives And Other Models

2024 Author: Beatrice Philips | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-15 04:10

The history of the appearance of Leatherman multitool is widely known and does not differ in originality - just the need made it.

In general, the no less famous Swiss folding knife is considered the progenitor of the multitool, but the multi-tools in their modern form were invented by the American Tim Leserman during an auto tour of European countries in 1975, since he and his wife used a Fiat 600 of not the highest quality. The car had to be repaired frequently, and there was not enough space in the car to accommodate a full-fledged set of tools, so only a folding knife had to be used. So an enterprising American came up with the idea to combine a knife with a screwdriver and pliers. Further, the improvement of the instrument went on increasing, and Tim received a patent after 3 years in 1978.

Peculiarities

Our country is distinguished by the fact that not everyone prefers to use branded, high-quality things that cost a lot. And there are many reasons for this, but today's article will focus on the well-known multi-tools produced by the famous company from the United States Leatherman.

Immediately it is necessary to make a reservation - we mean only branded, original Leatherman multitool, and not their Chinese counterfeits at a much lower price and, accordingly, incomparable quality.

They are just part of that price segment, which is quite problematic for many, but their quality and lifetime warranty fully compensate for the money that can be given for them.

After all, the high quality of a thing, coupled with a well-known brand, always means its high cost . This can be entirely attributed to Leatherman products, be it a regular multitool or a Tread bracelet. Despite this, the purchase of such products overseas will significantly reduce its price, while the quality will remain the same. In addition, according to our legislation, a multi-tool is not considered a knife, which allows you to freely send it as you like.

Advantages and disadvantages

It is worth mentioning right away that we are talking about original products, and not about fakes, which unscrupulous manufacturers have flooded the market with recently.

Reviews of Genuine Leatherman tools often raise questions about whether these multi-tools are worth the money they give for them, often seen as a drawback.

The answer is the reputation of genuine Leatherman products. As a rule, having acquired such a tool once, the buyer becomes an adherent of the product, if not for life, then for a long time.

And there are reasons for that

They are distinguished by their versatility . When using the tools, various problems that arise in a given situation are solved.

Such a multi-tool will surely serve as an excellent present ., which will cause the most positive emotions in the one to whom it will be presented.

They are ergonomic and at the same time weigh only 350 grams . When comparing the tools of this gadget with tools of usual sizes that have the same functionality, the difference in mass and size can be seen with the naked eye.

Some Leatherman multi-tools, due to their small size, will even fit into a handbag .

They are much simpler and more convenient to use .than the standard toolbox.

So that such a tool does not deteriorate during a long idle time , there is no need to organize special conditions - pockets are quite suitable, you can simply leave it in a belt pouch, the glove compartment of a car, and so on.

Leatherman multi-tools have a distinctive aesthetic and your own style.

Among the disadvantages are the high price and significant weight of some models.

Model overview

Among fans of Leatherman pocket tools, which are suitable for all occasions, there has been a long debate about which of the multi-tools can be called the "best". Consider the main sales leaders.

Leatherman wave

This multi-tool is a full-size multifunctional multi-tool.

Its handles contain 17 different devices, its body is ergonomic and compact, it was specially developed for this model.

The following tools are used: 2 types of pliers, wire cutters, 2 knife blades (one with a simple, the other with a wavy profile), a file, scissors, a file for turning wood and metal surfaces, a file … Can be used with two universal double-sided bit holders, bottle cap opener.

Weight 240 grams, dimensions 100x50 mm. The coating can be silver-steel or blackened.

Leatherman Charge TTi

This model has a slightly higher cost than the previous one, since it uses a higher quality steel grade. It has titanium handles (they are provided with a ruler in the metric and inch ranges), it has a little more tools, the designers have achieved better ergonomics of the case.

In addition to the set of tools used in Leathermman Wave, those who buy this model of the multitool will be able to use a medium screwdriver, 2 files, scissors, a file and a universal opener that can open not only a bottle, but also a can.

Needle-nose pliers have replaced conventional pliers. They can be used with more operations (cutting various types of wires, this multitool can also be used to bite, strip or crimp the cable). In addition, Leatherman Charge TTi is equipped with a clip-clip that fixes it to the pockets . The clip clip is detached using a removable ring. The case is not sold with this multi-tool.

Weight 230 grams.

Skeletool

This multitool has a weight one and a half times less than the previous ones, it contains 7 new tools. The owner can use sharp nose pliers, pliers, specialized cutters to cut through types of heavy-duty reinforced wire, as well as standard cutters.

The combined knife blade has a half wavy sharpening, its stainless steel grade is 420HC.

The multitool is also equipped with a carabiner / opener clasp, a belt clip and a large bit holder. The kit includes 21 double-sided bits.

The material from which the body of this multi-tool is made is stainless steel, the material from which the handles with ruler markings are made is aluminum alloy. The case is not included in the package.

Length 100 mm, weight 140 g.

Leatherman juice

The next small offer is a multitool, intended for those users whose hands do not differ in size.

This model can be considered a miniature copy of the first model on the Leatherman Wave list.

Owners still have the opportunity to use more than half a dozen tools: sharp and standard pliers, two types of nippers - ordinary and capable of cutting heavy wire, a knife, a file, scissors, an awl, an opener that can deal with both bottles and a can, corkscrew. The kit includes 4 screwdrivers of various types and purposes . The handle covers are offered in the classic version and with a blue anodized finish that makes them unique.

Length 82 mm, weight 155 g.

Leatherman Surge

This multitool is one of those that have large dimensions.

Includes 21 fixtures:

• The Surge is equipped with interchangeable wire cutters that can cut both heavy-duty wire / wire / cable and multi-core cables,
• a device for crimping wires used when working with electrical installations,
• two knives (with a serrated blade and a regular one), spring-loaded scissors and an awl-knife (it is equipped with a special break through which you can pull the thread),
• with a can opener,
• bottle opener,
• two files,
• screwdrivers.

The color of the case can be black or classic silver-white, the material of the cover is nylon and leather.

The disadvantage of this model can be called a relatively large weight and significant dimensions - it is not intended for constant wearing

Length 115 mm, weight 350 g.

Rebar

This multi-tool is designed to be worn at all times.

The body is equipped with a recessed frame, which allows the removal of tools from their internal seats, even when wearing work gloves.

Those who bought this model of Leatherman multitool have:

• can opener,
• needle-nose pliers,
• pliers,
• interchangeable nippers, allowing you to work with high strength wire,
• crimping device for cables,
• a device that allows you to strip cables,
• two knives (one has a flat, the other has a serrated blade),
• file,
• an awl equipped with an eyelet,
• ruler
• files for working with wood and metal surfaces,
• screwdrivers of various sizes and purposes.

The devices placed in the Rebar in such a quantity cause surprise, since the body has a rather small size, which indicates a high degree of ergonomics of the instrument

In addition to the above devices, Leatherman, who developed the Rebar, can be thanked for the large working surface area, the considerable length of the knife blade, and the convenience of using the sewer as a needle when sewing.

Length 100 mm, weight 190 g.

Tread

The bracelet, called Tread (English link, track), fits well into the category of a breakthrough, completely unusual, interesting product. The developers of this multitool have tried to have a separate device in each link so that it is functional . And in the end, the user had no less opportunity to use different bits, knives, screwdrivers and so on (there is even a special device that helps when removing the SIM card), as if he were using the traditional, more familiar Leatherman multitool.

The diameter of this bracelet is initially excessive, therefore it is possible to reduce it by removing the links.

Tread is offered to the buyer in two versions - standard and narrow

The lucky owner of such an unusual multitool will be able to use the following tools mounted in the links of the bracelet:

1. a Philips screwdriver No. 1-2;
2. 1/4 wrench;
3. flat screwdriver 3/16;
4. hex key 6 mm;
5. wrench 10 mm;
6. with a 5 mm hex wrench;
7. 1/4 hex wrench;
8. oxygen cylinder opening key;
9. hex key 3/16;
10. 1/8 hex wrench;
11. wrench 3/16;
12. hex key 3/32;
13. flat screwdriver 3/32;
14. flat screwdriver 1/8;
15. hex wrench 4 mm;
16. wrench 8 mm;
17. with a 3 mm hex wrench;
18. flat screwdriver 5/16;
19. wrench 3/8;
20. 1/4 flat screwdriver;
21. Philips screwdriver # 1;
22. wrench 6 mm;
23. a Philips screwdriver # 2;
24. carbide tip for breaking glass;
25. a device that removes the SIM card;
26. a special knife for cutting the seat belt;
27. adapter for drivers when tightening / loosening 1/4;
28. bottle opener;
29. a device for tightening screws with a square head.

The disadvantage is that Tread has the unpleasant property of leaving scratches on everything that it accidentally touches - after all, it is steel. For this reason, it is not very suitable for daily wear.

Another drawback is the considerable weight of the bracelet (168 g).

Selection Tips

Leatherman multitools are multifunctional assistants that will not let you down in any circumstances: such a multitool will not drain its battery, it will work both in the rain and in the snow.

They are used in various situations to solve a wide range of problems - from repairing a bicycle wheel to saving lives in an emergency.

The only question is that it is difficult to decide which model to choose.

Here are the most common goals for choosing a multitool:

• take a trip out of town, on a hike;
• help in an emergency;
• move to another city;
• apply for professional purposes;

Choosing a Leatherman multitool is a matter of taste and intended use.