Best Multitool (TOOL KNIVES)? Leatherman vs Gerber, SOG, Victorinox, DeWalt, Mossy Oak, Ozark Trail
BRANDS TESTED: Leatherman Skeletool, SOG PowerAccess, Leatherman Charge+, Gerber Suspension, Gerber Gear, Ganzo, Victorinox Swiss Army Knife, DeWalt, Hart, Mossy Oak, RoverTac, Stanley, Ozark Trail and Havalon. Tested for initial knife sharpness and quality of knife steel by testing sharpness after coming into contact with aluminum. Phillips and slotted screwdrivers tested for quality and durability. Knife blade locks tested for strength. Tools tested for corrosion resistance. A “subjective” assessment on ergonomics and comfort. I purchased all of the multitools. So, thank you for supporting the channel!
➡ Thank you very much for supporting the channel: / projectfarm
➡ An easy way to find past videos along with products tested: bit.ly/2FCrBpk A big thanks to Jim for putting this together.
➡ Merch: www.Project-Farm.com
➡ Click here if you'd like to subscribe: / @projectfarm
➡ As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
➡ Products Tested In This Video (in no particular order):
Leatherman Skeletool: amzn.to/3uZdCQf
Gerber Gear: amzn.to/3AwoYMG
Leatherman Charge Plus: amzn.to/3lnVpbU
Victorinox Swiss Army Knife: amzn.to/3DrvC8P
DeWalt: amzn.to/3DpfkgL:
Ganzo: amzn.to/2YEukbG
SOG PowerAccess: amzn.to/3auG9n7
Mossy Oak: amzn.to/3BubmD4
RoverTac: amzn.to/3Ax8Ni1
Stanley: amzn.to/3BnVvpv
Gerber Suspension: amzn.to/3DqxD57
Ozark Trail: amzn.to/3uZ7R5d
Havalon: amzn.to/3BFegEQ
Tools used in testing multitools:
Torque Adapter: amzn.to/3iOanGr
Videography Equipment:
Sony DSC-RX10 III Cyber-shot Digital Still Camera: amzn.to/2YdXvPw
Canon 70D Camera: amzn.to/31b5Gy0
Azden Microphone: amzn.to/34d3DLE
Go Pro Bundle: amzn.to/3Ca0ZVN
This video is only for entertainment purposes. If you rely on the information portrayed in this video, you assume the responsibility for the results. Project Farm LLC
I'll just throw this out: I mis-used the pliers on my Leatherman Charge TTi, and broke the tip. Despite it being almost 10 years old, I sent it to leatherman, they replaced the pliers with *the new replaceable cutters style*, replaced the file, sharpened the knife and sharpened / polished the serrated blade, and replaced both the standard and miniature screw bits. For $8 shipping. This all on top of it being an incredible tool, I am a customer for life.
I had a very similar thin happen to mine. It was a US Army special edition. When asked whether I wanted repair or replacement, I choose repair because of what it meant to me. It came back like new...they even replaced the Army scales...what meant the most was in a envelope was my old scales and a handwritten note thanking me for my service...like you...I'm a customer for life.
Thanks for sharing. My Leatherman purchased in 1994, looks and works like new. These premium brands need to advertise their service more. If I’m not mistaken, North Face offers lifetime warranty.
Yes. I will always recommend leatherman. 👍🏻
Leatherman company did not sold it's soul to profits, unlike Apple lol
@CrypticPortal ⁰
Warranty, or Customer service is something to consider too. I've sent a Leatherman and a Victorinox, back for repairs. Both companies excelled, with their customer service. The repaired tools were returned quickly and at no charge. "Impressive".
Gerber is good too, although they all could be faster! ಠಿ_ಠ
That was impressive. Thanks for sharing.
That is also why I have used leatherman tools for over 25 years is the warranty. I have physically misused the tool and they still warranted the tool with no questions asked. It seems like they use the failures and misuse to improve their lineup. You can probably send the damaged leatherman tools back and have them repaired or replaced. Good video.
It's not that important as lasting forever. No point having a tool with a 2000 year warranty if it breaks Everytime you need it most
That is good to know!! I like victorinox knives.
Over 20 years ago I stretched the budget to buy a leatherman charge ti, the titanium cased predecessor to the current line. I was working on a schooner in the Caribbean and dropped it overboard, but being in crystal clear water could see it clearly on the bottom. I free dove and got it back but it was deeper than it looked and nearly burst my eardrums. In the ensuing 20 years, leatherman has twice replaced that tool with no hassles. Once a lock failed and another time the jaws broke when I twisted while cutting. The ergonomics on mine aren't great, and it can pinch pretty bad in cutting use due to the way the handles come together. But overall it has been worth the initial cost and earache!
Thanks for sharing.
This channel has over 2 million subs and I still think it’s under appreciated, it’s really the best in class for tool reviews. Every video is educational and entertaining..,I find myself binging on the vids. Awesome stuff PF!
Thanks!
His voice and cadence are grating as fuck.
@@Failure_Is_An_Option Not as annoying as your opinion
@@sethtenrec Well there are a whole lot that agree with me.
@@Failure_Is_An_Option so go watch something else
Companies: “You get what you pay for!” Project Farm: “We’re gonna test that!”
Companies: " no not like that "
And THIS is why I like this guy so much! "We're gonna test that!" 👍
As a kid, I looked forward to the Sunday comics. Now….at 54 I look forward to Sundays Project Farm!
Me too
Thanks so much! That means a lot to me!
I have had the Leatherman Wave for about 7 years. It has NEVER failed me and I absolutely love it
Thanks for the feedback.
Try the Surge
Same but mine is the Leatherman Wave+, I don't remember the difference but it has worked 3 yrs with no issues.
I had to replace mine about 5 years ago. I lost the old one in a parking lot somewhere.
My wire cutter/plier failed multiple times & the bit holder broke recently. I still have to send it back for repair.
You should consider adding a Rockwell hardness tester to your testing regimen. It would be really interesting to see the hardness values of the blades. If a blade uses hard steel and is not sharp, it could be that the factory did a poor job sharpening the blade, but that can easily be fixed on a stone, and you would be left with a great cutting tool.
He would need to calibrate it often. The more you use it the more you need to calibrate it. Precise hardness testing files might be useful.
Second this. Calibration is possible, and it would be interesting to see
It might be on the blades of some of these like alot of knives. And probably listed on the specs.
I'll take more real world testing over a device telling me hardness.
@@chur44 Rockwell hardness testing is very accurate for edge retention compared to hardness. Although different steels hold edges better at different hardness. For m390 61 is very hard and will hold an edge extremely well while 61 is soft for magnacut and won’t hold the edge as well but get magnacut up to 64 and it will hold an edge longer than most any other steel but 64 on m390 becomes brittle and will snap the blade. Of course there are tons of factors that determine edge retention not just hardness but also edge thickness bevel degree thickness behind the bevel
He did it! I ask him to make this video a few months ago and he actually did it! Thank you. Best real world product tester on KZhead, period.
Thank you very much for requesting this one and apologize that it's taken me so long to do this one
You and 40 others
@@ProjectFarm No need to apologize friend, quality work takes time and it's always worth the wait! Thank YOU for the work you put into these videos, they're a valuable source of information.
👍🏼 Congrats, good idea! His test setups and analytical gear are a big part of the fun! 😎✌🏼
I would love to see a good slim profile multi-tool with a replaceable utility blade and it has to have the pocket/belt clip to even be considered
I won't leave home without one of my Leatherman Rev tools. I've abused one to the point of breaking the main blade and Leatherman replaced it, no questions asked. Pretty good for a $35 tool.
You're alive! Any new videos coming?
I carry a Rev as well, my father swears by his PST, but new ones of those aren't available anymore.
I have a Leatherman Wave+ that I like very much. Nice to know they stand behind their products. I miss the drums.
Thanks for the feedback!
My dad has several leatherman multitools, and I've always liked the looks of them. so I got the OHT as a christmas gift a few years ago which I've taken good care of and I love it. Though I remember adam savage talking about them not being the biggest supporters of right to repair which sucks, if that's the case
I have the Swisstool. Owned it for 15 years, it has been on my belt most of that time and is as crisp and tight now as it was 15 years ago. No problems with the pliers or wire cutters and I use them every day. I just make sure its dry, oiled and always put away clean. Sharpened once a month and it is razor sharp. It is a classic and about as much of a weight or size as I would want as an edc belt tool.
Thanks for sharing.
I also got a Swisstool around 15 years ago... Still works really well at everything I can imagine.
Leatherman's have always been my favorite of all multi-tools. I have also experienced great customer service from them. The one trend I don't care for is the over complication on some multi'es. All the extra screw driver bits are kind of a pain and easy to use. While out hiking and hunting I personally have never needed any more options then my Wave, or Skel-tool offer. Great work as usual Mr Farmer!!!!🤘🤘🤘
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
I’ve thought this too. I’m looking maybe get something more than my little pocket knife to have with me and though all the random stuff on these seems cool, at the end of the day I’d usually just need a knife and maybe a couple other things.
leatherman is for noobs
If you’re out hiking you should have a fixed blade knife. Being lost or stuck out there with only a damn multi tool would suck so bad.
The thing I like about my skeletool is there's no picking at little nicks or tabs with your fingernails to pry any little tools out. Everything can be done with big motions of your whole hand.
Bathroom cleaners. Would be interesting to see which one is the most effective against mold, soap scum and hard water buildup.
Cleaners in general are something that I don't think this channel has dipped very far into. Great idea, especially the bathroom cleaner.
DOW scrubbing bubbles was the sh*t!! Cant find it anymore :(
@@1erinjames It's probably made of cancer... :/
@@1erinjames I bought 2 last week at Menards. One with bleach for mold and the other for soap scum.
@@l5514598844k good to know!! No Menards in my area. I will start my search again!!
I used to go with Gerber Multi-tools in the 90s to the early 00s. However I found the Leatherman newer designs took over. I used the Leatherman Skeletool as a my EDA. In the Military i carried Leatherman MUT for 10 years. Never failed me once. I was very abusive and even used it as a hammer. If you run out of ammo you can always through it at someone. Heavy enough.
you threw it through someone? :)
@@raafmaat .. 😂
Throw...
im sorry man, i liked your story, just could not refuse to comment about the "through" :P
I'm a big fan of my wave+. I haven't sharpened the blade in the 3 years I've owned it and I can still shave with it (barely) I wish I had the bit set though
Have carried a leather man Rebar on my hip for years. Use the wire cutters and the knife every day and the blade is incredible. I think I’ve sharpened it 3 times in the 7 years I’ve had it and never had an issue with it not cutting something like butter. Absolutely will not leave home without it.
Fantastic video. The Standardized Tests you use are really great, and make for a truly unbiased review. Keep up the great work
Thanks, will do!
I've had the same Leatherman on my hip for 17 years. It's gotten me out of many binds and has never failed.
Thanks for the feedback.
And it will open your beer on top of everything else…🍺
@@ProjectFarm please like 👍 if you want. please do Super tech advanced full synthetic 20,000 mile version and if you have time please do the full synthetic high mileage Super tech they just come out with them I’m dying to know if it is better than the regular full-synthetic.
i have had three skeletools over the same time, one broke (they replaced for free) one i lost, wear it every day and use it multiple times a day on the farm . Highly recommend .
Watching my Leatherman shine feels like watching my son get drafted no1 overall in the NFL draft
😂 a true, dad, moment!
Congratulations Mr. Lawrence!
Another great test, I almost enjoy seeing the test rigs as much as the actual tests.
I've had my Leatherman Wave for over 20 years now. It has it's limitations & seen hundreds if not thousands of uses & repairs. Showing some age and use/abuse but still my go to tool.
I wish there was a way to test politicians as thoroughly as this.
😂good thought
Why? People are going to believe whatever and whomever they want to anyway, regardless of the truth.
What does it say " censored by google" ? Damn commies
Very soon! Justice coming
Voting records are public
I've had my Leatherman Wave+ for over three years now. Of the tens of multi tools I've had, it's been by far the most rugged and dependable, despite daily use for everything from opening paint cans, to cutting cardboard. Having a good, reliable multi tool as a handy man is essential! Thanks for this great test, and I eagerly await your next one whatever it may be.
You are welcome! Thanks for sharing.
On my 2nd wave after 20 years. Love em
@Buck Norris yes! And the micro eyeglasses screw driver is surprisingly rugged. I've used it for everything from tightening tiny set screws, to punching holes in leather and scribing metal. Everything about the Wave is versatile.
I really love the Wave as well. Unfortunately the last one I bought had a very tight corner that made it hard to open, even after working it with oil. Too lazy to send it in.
My wave is 16 years old, and is still in great shape. The blade geometry is great, and it takes an edge very easily. The ergonomics is also the best of any multi tool I've ever owned or tried.
Great review. My Leatherman Wave has not failed me in over 20 years.
Coming in at 16 years on mine. Every day carry.
mine has been good for over 10 years
Same, 15+. Wish it spring loaded open at times but comparing it to my Gerber which does is like comparing Legos to Duplos
The time and effort you put in to these tests is nothing short of amazing.
Thanks!
I have a Leatherman Surge which gets used most days, i wish the knives were easier to sharpen (not a simple geometry) but the stainless steel construction has handled everything I can throw at it, and I love the saw blade using a standard Jigsaw blade, it's come in handy a few times. It came out on top for me when shopping due to tools included and durability :)
Great feedback! Thank you
As an electrician the surge in my opinion should be on everyone's belt
Toughest basterd ever. I used two pipes to have multiplied leverage on pliers. Works as good as new.
I LOVE the surge.. it's my EDC. But there's ONE thing, i can't seem to cut thin ( let's say lockingwire ) wire.. it just folds when I close the knife ( as in, it folds between the 2 removable cutting pieces
@@TheDutchShepherd Any play on the pliers axis? If thin wire folds between edges I would take one out and put a shim under it. So the two could get closer each other and cut more preciselly. You are lucky to have it removable. Any hadened steel I cut it leaves a tiny dent on my Surge cutting edges. Need to file it flat ever slightly with a diamond rod or file.
Love seeing destructive testing. There's no hiding behind marketing when an expensive tool breaks when it shouldn't. Great job Todd!
Thanks!
well said
Inox steel is definitely proven to me now.
I'm really glad you evaluated the accessibility of the tools.
Thanks!
Very appropriately timed video for me! I just lost my Leatherman Rev a few weeks ago, and feel naked everyday without it. The compactness, belt clip, and price point/value, made it an awesome edc. I'm glad you see what's available now and how well they perform. Thank you!!
You are welcome! Sorry to hear you lost your Leatherman Rev.
what did u end up getting I can't decide what to get lol
@@Rampage---7 I went without for a while, but then I received a Leatherman Rebar for my birthday. I didn't really care for the interior controls of the Rebar (it has to be opened to access a knife), so I started using a Leatherman Wave, that I had stored away. If I needed a multi tool today, I'd probably buy a Leatherman Rev.
@@thelondonbroiler alright thanks I appreciate it.
I still have the Leatherman multi-tool my grandfather gave me for graduation in 85' everything works as it did new and I carry it every day. Great video Todd!
Nice! Thanks for sharing!
This is it. The Leatherman I got in Scouts is still going strong.
I've had so many multi tools. This is the best test yet!
Thank you very much!
Have had several brands shown, but the very best was the ViseGrip "Toolbox" with Schrade knife blades and large curved jaws, with sheath, under $30 (in 2002?)! Discontinued :\
That's what I was saying he always dose really good test
@@gus473 I've always had Gerber and Leatherman but wondered if I was just overpaying. I agree with him about if you're willing to spend the money the Leatherman is really good.
@@gus473 thanks for the tip
Love this channel. No bs paid reviews. Always real to the point.
Thanks!
Thanks for the upload Mr Farm!
My pleasure!
Ahh, the highlight of every Sunday morning.
Thank you!
Evening (EU) :-)
My Leatherman wave plus is basically part of me at this point. And I don't even think about it, but when I reach down to grab it and it's not there I feel lost. and that's the mark of a good multi tool In my opinion
Todd, thank for doing another "We're going to test that" video. You do a great job of devising a thorough test.
Thanks and you are welcome!
Glad to see the Leatherman do well. I've used the Leatherman 300 Supertool with great success. I replace it with a new one every few years because I use it ALOT and pass the used ones along to glove compartments and tackle boxes.
Thanks for the feedback.
I love the tiers of recommendations at the end. There are just so many tools and stats to keep track of. A recommendation per budget range makes your reviews so much more useful than others!
Thanks for the feedback.
Def true, enhances the reviews by summarizing data.
@@adamgreen911 Yeah, this exactly. A blade lock failing at 17lbs, but the tool still being in tact, or it failing at 82lbs but locking open permanently, basically destroying the tool, are two very different metrics. If you need to put 82lbs on your little multitool, you should have realized well beforehand that this is not the tool for the job.
@@bloodymarvelous4790 You do realize that pushing any tool beyond its limit is part of the standard operating mode of your average 200 pound shopgorilla ;)
I always wished that there was an "index" of all the things you tested..... I just realized that I've been missing out, cause there is one.. ..and it is literally the best thing since sliced bread!! Huge shout out to Jim for putting it together! (The link is in the description for anybody that doesn't know)
Here's a link to the index that Jim put together. Huge amount of effort and dedication by Jim that's GREATLY appreciated: bit.ly/2FCrBpk
Wow that’s a lot of effort I am impressed by whoever did this
@@ProjectFarm Wow! I didn't know you had tested that many products. As you say "that's impressive." You deserve the 2.05M loyal subscribers you have. Thank you.
@@ProjectFarm Brilliant compilation, thanks Jim.
Next week's test, best sliced bread...
Love your videos! They absolutely affect my tool purchases. Keep up the amazing work!
Thanks, will do!
I have a Leatherman skeletool my kids got my for Xmas in my tackle box. Love that thing. I’ve beat the hell out of it & it’s still kicking.
PF: Have you considered testing extension cords? Things like 1) Will the plugs separate from the cord? 2) How well do plugs last 3) Cold weather durability 4) Durability 5) Do they get dangerously hot when running at full rated current etc
Joining you here. Also test for wire gauge size- a lot of what is sold is undersized and has low strand count too. I'd also like to see a test (and the test rig!) for wear through plug-unplug cycles and test-to-failure for current carrying. Be a great collab opportunity with Electronics n More who would have the electrical test gear already.
Yeah and why a cord claims to have 14 gauge wire and gets hot but if you make a cord from bulk 14 gauge wire, it doesn't!
@@JohnDoe-pv2iu Exactly. Too many lies out there and we need the tested truth.
@@JohnDoe-pv2iu Exactly. I have a variety of cords and many are just junk. I found most of the amazon/home depot/etc budget cords are more dangerous than cost effective. The "Heavy duty" cords are what you would consider to be a standard cord in reality and actual heavy duty cords are really hard to find and cost more than a house. I have cords my dad bought in the 70s and they are still going strong. Why can't todays cords do so well?
Thanks for the suggestion.
I’ve owned several multi-tools. The Leatherman Wave+ is hands down the best I’ve tried.
I've been carrying the slightly older New Wave, same as the Wave+ just without the replaceable cutters. I've had this thing for over 10 years. Been waiting for the cutters to wear out so I can justify getting the Wave+. No luck yet.
Thanks for the feedback.
You are correct sir! Same here!
I also had a wave, freaking loved that tool!
Wave user as well, it's been my best friend on work for 15 years now! Had to replace the leather 'belt bag' this summer. That's quality!
I've carried the Leatherman Charge + Titanium every single day for 15+ years. Phenomenal tool and still looks and works as good as the day I got it.
Thanks for doing this test. I use multitools every day and this is incredibly important to me.
You are welcome! Glad to know!
The Leathermans are more expensive but as you stated you get a 25 year warranty. As long as you don't loose it, your good for a long time.
Same goes for if they get all rusted up… they will replace it.
I found a Leatherman on the road that had been run over and broke in two. They replaced with a new one, no questions asked.
As long as you don't lose it... or someone steals it. I had 2 of the original PSTs, and BOTH were stolen. That is, for me, the biggest drawback of Leathermans; They are so good that people are tempted to steal them. I've had several of the other models tested here and the thing that seems to divide the expensive ones from the cheap ones is that the cheap ones can be very, very variable in quality. I've had both the Ozark and Stanley and the blade on the Ozark was possibly the worst blade I've ever had. The Stanley certainly didn't stand up to the name. I know people who've had both SOG and Gerber and they're nicely made, but I can't think of anything that would persuade me to get anything that wasn't a Leatherman if money was no object. Unfortunately, money has been a deciding factor for me, so I'm currently soldiering on with my Ozark, POS that it is.
MacGyver can do just about anything. -“We’re gonna test that”
I was literally gonna say that! Lmao
Thank you!!
I am down for some macgyver myth buster reviews.
My father gave me a leatherman super tool 300 for my 16th birthday. Since then I've carried it nearly every day. I cannot overstate how often having a robust multi tool comes in handy, whether it is for simple fixes or opening packages to field expedient repairs that required cutting through steel brake line. I've given out several leatherman tools to friends and family over the years because I trust these tools to save the day, and I'm thankful to have mine by my side.
Thank you!
Thanks for this comparison. I've had a basic Leatherman for over 30 years and it still performs great. I just order the Leatherman Wave Plus to add to the toolbox.
You are welcome! Thanks for sharing.
Love my Leatherman skeletool. I have been carrying one for over 10 years. They are light and fit in pocket comfortably. I broke the pliers once while trying to twist steel that I should not have been twisting with this tool. But, Leatherman honored the warranty and made it good as new. Leatherman has my business from now on. Thanks for a great review!
On a 3 inch Philips I was screwing into a beam by hand, I broke the screw driver, then broke the plyers trying to get it back out... That was the first time I used that tool and the last time I used leatherman. I felt especially bad because my kids gave it to me for father's day, thoughtful of them as I was hurting my hands on a much less ergonomic Sheffield steel multitool. At least leatherman gave them their money back.
You are welcome! Thanks for sharing.
@@petevenuti7355 why the fuck would you be driving a 3 inch screw into a beam by hand? no wonder it broke.
@@petevenuti7355 you should ask your kids to buy you an impact drill.
I've been a subscriber for almost as long as you've been doing tool reviews and im always impressed with the amount of time and energy and money you put into your videos. It must be so tedious and time consuming to do the tests and keep track of the results. You're awesome man!
Thanks so much! Thanks for being a dedicated viewer!
I think the same thing every time I see one of this vids!
Love my Wave+ doing a lot of climbing for repairs on LED walls, I always bring it with me and it doesn't take up any space in my pockets. Makes going up and down ladders safer than what other guys do.
Thanks for sharing.
I’ve owned the Skeletool since 2010 or so and have been very satisfied with it! I had a minor issue with it after about 5 years of owning it. I sent it back to Leatherman and they sent me a brand new one, no questions asked.
Wow, thanks for sharing!
This is why I am Leatherman for life!
Been a Maintenance Technician for many years and I've carried on daily rounds a Leatherman Super Tool for Id say now 5 years. The best buy for sure! Its usually the first tool I grab and never been let down.
Leatherman Sidekick, literally my sidekick. I am a HVAC service tech, and this tool has been so incredibly handy for every day use. Sidekick and Streamlight Microstream are in each my left and right picket clip respectively.
Thanks for the feedback.
Good job putting in all that analysis work! I've had a Leatherman Skeletool for ages and it's a great bit of kit.
Thanks! Thanks for the feedback.
I don’t know why I get such a kick out of watching you test these tools. I watch your videos, one right after the other, and some of the tests that you do make me laugh! Thank you so much for doing these!
You are welcome!
After many years of owning different cheap multi tool's, I finally bought a Leatherman!! And oh man, what a difference!! I'm a heavy equipment operator, I used my Leatherman in some really extreme conditions, and never let me down!! It's always on my belt! For work, hunting, trapping and for everything! Worth every penny!! It's expensive, but will serve you forever!! Great video as always 👍 Thanks
Agree. I've had plenty of cheap ones. More often than not, they hurt your hands and end up breaking and costing you more money in the not so long run.
Leatherman victornox an Gerber are my top three. My dad had a Leatherman an victornox growing up an they lasted him a long time. I think he's still got both of them to this day 30 years later lol
Thanks so much! Thanks for sharing.
Trapping? No trapping where I live (except for nuisance animals...and in the ocean, I guess, for crab and lobster).
@@kenc2257 well...I'm out trapping every winter here in the north
I've got an original Leatherman Charge that I've had for over a decade now and absolutely love it. Use it all the time. And I really love the Leatherman service! I had a minor issue several years ago and they didn't even ask hardly any questions, just had me send it in and they sent be back another one. FYI you can also have them repair and send back the original if you have sentimental attachment to it.
Yep completely agree, I got one well over 10 years ago now and it still works as it should, I have always kept it in my vehicle and it has been invaluable over the years in quite a few situations.
I've got a Leatherman wave i bought in 2005 before deploying to iraq. It was attached to me during 2.5 years of deployment in Baghdad, & has done a lot of work. After coming home i work in a factory & even drove a tractor & trailer for 3 years. My Leatherman wave don't get the use it used to.. but it's still within arms reach while im at work or in my vehicle. I've also got another one that is a little worse for wear.. it's in my gun cleaning bag & has lot of time helping me clean & maintain the machine gun i had the privilege of living with for a few years. I wouldn't take a truck load of Gerber's for 1 Leatherman!
Yeah. I found a old leatherman wave in 2010 when i was working on a snow dump. In 2018 the blade snapped and i sent it to the free repair service. The old model of wave had been updated after i found my wave and they just sent a new wave to me also. 10/10 service
@@lostgrunt7833 the Gerber pliers that you can swing out one handed is the only good thing on them. I have only owned one Greber and i use it only when im fishing. And i only use the pliers to remove the hook if it is deep in the mouth...
This episode is perfect for me. I don't know how I missed seeing it when it came out
Great video, Todd. Love your ingenious testing methodologies. But, none of these multitools are as pretty as my black handled Victorinox Officier Suiss that's been by my side for over 35 years. Not too big, nor too small, always within reach, has never failed, and always brings that proud owner smile to my face. That's priceless and why I even have a matching backup in the car. On the other hand, my cheap leatherman tool has never left my tool chest. JS :-)
Thanks for sharing.
Through the years I have carried Leatherman, Schrade, SOG, Gerber (military issue) and Victorinox. The only tools that fully meet my standards are the Leatherman and Victorinox.
agree. i now use the Victorinox in facility management. keep it away from bleach and peroxide (the simply rust any steel). first tool ever to not rust after a year of exposure to strong acids, salt, etc.
@@beyondEV I carried a Leatherman for several years then switched to a Victorinox about 20+ years ago because I liked the locking mechanism better. That Victorinox has been all over the world and been my faithful companion.
yep, the 2 i carry day in and out.
@@cvr527 Yep, been carrying my black handle Victorinox Officier Suiss for over 30 years (+ a matching backup). None of these multitools are nearly as good looking; makes me proudly smile every time I look at it. Never leaves my side and I use it daily, including the knife blades, scissors, file, sawblades, lens, and drivers (whenever proper screwdrivers aren't handy). I've also got a cheap leatherman tool that has never been taken out of my tool chest. Kinda says it all, doesn't it?
I've had my geber mp600(military issue) for about 14 years. My dad used to collect Swiss Army knives and they were all pretty frail and ridiculous. When you have the option use real tools lol.
I went into this expecting both Leatherman and Victorinox to do well. I've owned both and they've been amazing over the years. I use a Leatherman Wingman as my daily carry
Thanks for the feedback.
As a swiss i expected victorinox do best in everything
Thanks for your service, keep up the incredible work.
Thanks, will do!
I've used Victorinox knives since I was a young kid, and still do today. Maybe because it's what I'm familiar with. However, it's largely due to their quality and how well they honor their lifetime warranties. I've carried the Victorinox Swisstool X almost daily on my belt for several years now, and use it pretty much every day at my job. It's held up extremely well. It was expensive, at around $100, but I've found it to be worth it. Definitely cheaper options out there as we saw on this video, but for heavy/daily use, I've found the Swisstool X to be a great tool to have on me.
Thanks for sharing.
Still the best in the category, IMO! And the fact that they're made in Switzerland is for me a big plus, as it is a country with better worker protection that the origin of the other alternatives !
I have about 6 different Swiss Army Knives in various sizes... I would always go for the Victorinox. Reliable, sharp and easy to handle
Those are the only ones used by the swiss army
@@Tallnerdyguy Finland, Sweden, and Norway as well to name a few.
This is Michael. Wow! This is one of the best reviews on any item I've ever seen. Good job
Thanks so much!
I'd love to see you compare waterproofers. Cans of stuff you spray on tents to make them water proof.
That's a great idea. Would be fun to test too. Hope he does it.
Great suggestion! Thank you
@@acomingextinction I'd love to see a project farm rain maker
Also boot waterproofers
@@dbmeed That was going to be my suggestion!
This video just makes me want to get another multi tool and MacGyver my way out of a few situations ha ha! Great job as always and I love the testing he did it in this video.
Thank you!!
Yea I just got a Leatherman and I really don't use it a whole lot but I kinda want a new 1 now to🤣
Any one of your projects could suddenly need a multitool, always good to have one, or many...
Here are two phrases manufactures don't want to hear: 'We're gonna test that" & "nothing on one, two is binding, small click on three"
Look at the different warranties and guarantees first.
Good video. I've had a Leatherman Sidekick for 10+ years and it's been flawless (still looks nearly new). I love this brand as even though they are quite expensive they are easy to use and very durable.
Thansk! Thanks for sharing.
I really like your fast editing. thank you.
You are welcome
Husky would've been an interesting contender
Added to my list for round 2 (if there's enough interest in a round 2 video). Thank you
@@ProjectFarm Np
@@ProjectFarm there's definitely interest!
👍🏼 Yes to Round #2!
Milwaukee as well! 👍
Its like you were reading my mind.... I was holding my leatherman the other day and was thinking about your videos and was hoping to see this!!!! I appreciate all the hard work you do to make these videos the best they can be.
You are welcome!
I love my charge plus best multi tool I've ever used. Thanks for your hard work.
You are welcome! Glad to hear!
Been a while since I’ve seen one of these multitool reviews. Very well done
Thanks!
Love your informative videos :) I sent my engraved Leatherman wave for repair and it was so beat up that they sent me a completely new wave+ back without charge and they even engraved my name in it! Love the customer service they provide
Wow! That's A++ service!
It’s awesome to have scientific evidence to back up my affinity for Leatherman multitools. Keep cranking out the phenomenal experiments and don’t compromise your undeniable impartiality and unbiased testing methods! Your results are not skewed, they’re presented in a practical manner, and there’s no BS! Much appreciated. Thank you as always CY Castor
I love your videos. Like with most things, you deal with tool snobs, and it's good to see lower cost options. Thanks!
Thanks! Thanks for the feedback.
Outstanding video as always!! Love that when I wonder these things you seem to always have a video to answer, thank you!
Thanks! Thanks for the feedback.
I bought my first Leatherman in the early 90's. The mini.... Each handle folds twice to make a strong full sized plier that is very compact when closed. When the inner handles are folded out, it makes the most comfortable grips of any multi-tool I own. I still have it and carry it when I want something smaller and lighter in my picked. I own at least 4 other Leatherman tools and love them all. I have Gerber, and some other brands that are ok, but nothing matches a Leatherman. Great video as always!
I have the mini too, I like the compact design but there arent many functions. Very durable.
Mini = Great! Sadly no longer made :-(
@@davidm.4670 saw one NIB sell for $200 on ebay last year. I had a juice the big one its like a swiss army knife I could leave my toolbox at home and do more with that. Lost it, I was heartbroken.
@@batvette yeah, the way it was designed didnt leave room for many tools. That was its biggest negative. I'd like to see them re-think it and release a mini 2. I've always liked the squared, compact style of the mini, original, rebar, etc. I currently carry the rebar.
I've had a Surge (old model with t-bit diamond file/saw blade) for between 15-20 years now. I broke the awl, the small driver bit (glasses-sized), and eventually the straight knife before I decided I needed a new one. Since I didn't like the bits on the new one, I tested the warranty. I just covered shipping - they replaced everything I asked for plus the pliers/wire cutters that I'd worn down. That's how you earn a customer for life; they didn't even ask for proof of purchase to see that I was in the 25-year period (which is good because it was a gift from my dad). Leatherman is far and away #1 in the multi-tool game in my book. Mine's gotten me out of more than a few jams.
I'd like to see comparison between different everyday carry knives, such as Spyderco paramilitary 2, Benchmade 940-1. I'd like to see edge retention from the different steels, such as CPM-S90V, CPM-S30V, and other higher priced steels.
Thanks for the suggestion.
I’d love to see a comparison with some of the EDC leatherman multitools!
You're going to start a comment war in the knife geardo forums.
I've had my Victorinox for around 15 years (not the one shown here, it's a straight handle with a red Victorinox label on one side). Love that thing.
Thanks for sharing.
I've been buying Victorinox swiss army knives since 1992. I have several of them. Latest one was a multitool i bought 10 years ago. Best quality and best durability there is!
I've always carried a Leatherman on my belt (20+ years). I love my Charge titanium, I've carried this one for well over 10 years and the knife is still very sharp (disclaimer: I have a pocket knife for 90% of tasks.) With all the features and supplemental tool bits there is very little and can't work on in a pinch. Its always great when I'm in a meeting, a dinner, on the road, and a multitool comes in handy. Great video!
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
Same here.
@@ProjectFarm please like 👍 if you want. please do Super tech advanced full synthetic 20,000 mile version and if you have time please do the full synthetic high mileage Super tech they just come out with them I’m dying to know if it is better than the regular full-synthetic.
I work in saltwater and have carried both the victorinox (10 years) and now the charge titanium for a year. I prefer the charge as the tools seem to come out easier for longer. I've also been very impressed with the rust resistance. My only issue is the that the scissors spring tends to pop off center making it necessary to push the scissors back open after every use
Amazing testing and beautifully done !!! Thanks !
Thank you very much!
Wow !!! This is how all reviews should be made. Detailed and backed by proof and numbers!
Thanks for sharing.
I've had my Victorinox Swisstool for at least 10 years, and bought it used (made in 1998). It has seen quite a bit of use, but still works as intended. In fact, that reminds me, I need to sharpen the blade.
Thanks for sharing.
I've found that Victorinox knives tend to lose their edge pretty quickly and it can be quite hard to get it back. In saying that, I only use Victorinox knives. For some reason the kitchen knives hold up a lot better than army knives. Probably something to do with the way I use them though...
@@dquad they have softer metal they are quite easy to sharpen
Multi-Tool? More like Multi-Cool video. Great work as always, Todd! We're very spoiled to get weekly videos that are this high quality.
Thank you very much!
LoL
I've been carrying a Leatherman charge tti for 3 years now. I'm a service plumber and I can't go a day without pulling it out. It's got some damage from extensive use but it's the best tool I got and it fits on my belt. I'm gonna buy a second one so when I send this one in for a free repair I won't be without one
The fact you include the country of origin is awesome. Thanks for all that you do. God Bless
Thanks so much!
TWIST TEST. I wish you had performed a twist test, to test the strength of the plier tips and hinge. You can't just clamp the handle in a vise though since that would give added strength that holding it in your hand would not give. My Leatherman Free P4 has very easy one-hand opening tools, and the lock seems very sturdy. (all the tools lock open) Thanks for the great videos!
You are welcome! Thanks for the feedback.
Absolutely right.
Thank you for putting in the legwork, and finding me my next christmas present! All seriousness though, you are one of the most handy channels on youtube. Keep doing what you do it is always a pleasure when one of your videos pop up!
Excellent video! This might be the best multitool comparison video on KZhead.
Thanks so much!
This tool test is far more interesting than most of the dull smartphones unpacking reviews. Thank you!
You are welcome!
There are two theories for knife steel, particularly for a survival/multi-tool type blade. Some people really focus on the overall hardness and edge retention of the steel, however most of those steels are extremely difficult to sharpen properly, especially for novices or anyone inexperienced with sharpening - so while they’ll hold their initial edge pretty well, once it dumps many people have a problem getting it to the original sharpness, or improving the edge. The other camp is to use steel that can relatively take a really nice edge, but is a bit softer and much easier to sharpen, so while it’ll go dull a bit faster than the harder steels, they are extremely easy to resharpen, and you can use almost anything to achieve a very respectable edge relatively easily, without too much experience. Both use cases are valid. Just depends on which camp you fall in - will decide your preference for either style of knife steel. Traditionally Victorinox falls into the easier to dull, easier to sharpen camp, while a lot of the newer Leatherman’s that use steels like 154, etc., fall in the hard steel, harder to sharpen camp. Both are extemely quality multi-tools.
Thanks for the feedback.
Excellent point, for a multi tool that gets used for things it probably shouldn't regularly an easier to sharpen steel makes more sense to me.
Or in the case of the Havalon, have a replaceable scalpel blade.... I was thinking exactly what you said as well though. I'm curious how hard some of those are to sharpen.
The problem with harder steels, is people don’t touch them up. If you keep them touched up you avoid a lot of the skill related problem of trying to reshape the blade.
So spot in with this comment. The hard steel usually makes one have to resort to diamond or tungsten sharpeners to make any progress, that is unless you really want to spend a long time sharpening one with a regular whetstone. There's nothing at all choosing the long slow route, for me personally, I find it very therapeutic and relaxing. A lot of the regular over the counter knives,and such, are made from 440 steel. This has been used since the early to mid 1990"s that I'm aware of because it's more of a universal type of steel. It holds an edge pretty good and is not that difficult to sharpen. If a steel is heat treated,(tempered), too much and has a Rockwell hardness over a certain amount, it can become an issue. Although it is strong, this can pose a problem by causing blades to actually snap in two because of it being so hard. The desired goal when making a knife or tool, is to have the best of both worlds. Ease of sharpness(repair), edge retention so it doesn't dull very easy, and enough strength that when force is applied to it that it will have a small amount of flexibility while remaining tough and durable. As with anything else in life, depending upon ones attributes that they want an instrument to contain, sacrifices have to be made one way or another. If you want a knife that holds an edge very well then the blade is probably going to be made from a harder type of steel, which means a more difficult blade to sharpen and is less flexible. The only blade that I know of that has the perfect all around combination, was a sword that is attributes to the Vikings. It was called, an Ulfberht, if I spelled it correctly. Historians and metallurgist alike consider this to be the best of the best and most top of the line blades found anywhere in the world because of the almost perfect molecular structure, and the expert processes that were used to make and forge a steel that has almost zero slag(impurities). This is something that is a challenge still to this day with all of the available texhnology that we have. There is a PBS episode where a blacksmith was contracted by the Viking Museum in Sweden,(I believe), to attempt to make an Ulfberht, and I cannot recommend it enough to see all of the things I've mentioned above. Believe it or not, it is still fascinating to those who are not blade nerds like myself. Lol. To see the end result and witness just how much skill and time it takes to create such an extraordinary piece of history and work of art. It was the first known sword of this name to be made in over 600 years and it makes you wonder. Just how in the world were they able to do this so long ago if they were so, "primitive", as we are often led to believe. Who knows, maybe they weren't so dam primitive after all.
I'm really impressed by Mossy Oak branded tool. I have an old Leatherman Crunch which is awesome and a Victorinox which also just doesn't quit.
Thanks for sharing.
That is exactly the same combo I use as my EDC. The swiss army knife has pliers, too, so I can tackle nut/bolt jobs if need be. Love the vise-grips on the Crunch!
I have the Crunch too but I stopped using it because they don't make it anymore and can't be replaced.
If you do any more of these "best tool" videos, can you clntinue testing how smooth the rotating actions are on things like pliers? It may not be particularly important for performance, but an interesting look into build quality. Keep up the cool videos!
Thanks, will do! Thanks for the suggestion.
Thanks for all the help on making a great decision on so much stuff always much happy with what I buy after looking at your testing 😊
You are welcome!
I been waiting for this video!!! This guy is the best never lets us down!!!!
Thank you very much! I bought all of the multitools and there's never been or never going to be any sponsors. Thanks again!
Would be interesting to see one on different ladders. How stable they are and what load they can take
Thanks for the suggestion.
@@davysanders4922 As a fatass, I volunteer!
Ladder on pavement vs Soil Or; Why not to use a orchard ladder on concrete.
Definitely got my vote for the ladder trials. I think that it should be the multifunction ones though since they kinda offer a better bang for the buck for a homeowner.
They all have a rating. I can guarantee you a extra heavy duty 375lb ladder will last better than a 225lb light duty ladder.
Great review - For me Vic Swisstool Spirit - never failed - many years.
Thanks!