Comments on: Multi-tools Review http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/ Gadget reviews and news by Julie Strietelmeier and friends since 1997 Sat, 26 May 2012 01:04:24 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v= By: Coast C5795 11 Function Multi-Tool Deluxe Review — The Gadgeteer http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-28017 Coast C5795 11 Function Multi-Tool Deluxe Review — The Gadgeteer Fri, 19 Dec 2008 21:05:30 +0000 #comment-28017 [...] to grasp in your hand in order to use it. Comparing it with two of my favorite mulit-tools, the Gerber MP800 and the SOG S63 EOD PowerLock, it definitely felt less comfortable gripped in my [...] [...] to grasp in your hand in order to use it. Comparing it with two of my favorite mulit-tools, the Gerber MP800 and the SOG S63 EOD PowerLock, it definitely felt less comfortable gripped in my [...]

]]> By: Andy Leviss http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18852 Andy Leviss Sat, 25 Jun 2005 07:50:48 +0000 #comment-18852 Might I ask why you're on your fourth? I'm on my third, myself, both times I managed to get it exchanged OTC at a Sports Authority retail shop. Both times were due to the tip of a screwdriver blade breaking off. Construction-wise, I much prefer the Leatherman tools, I just wish they'd do something with all the tools on the outside like the 800; that's gotten me spoiled! I've heard some nightmare stories from other stagehands trying to get Gerber to cover breakage under warranty. Might I ask why you’re on your fourth? I’m on my third, myself, both times I managed to get it exchanged OTC at a Sports Authority retail shop. Both times were due to the tip of a screwdriver blade breaking off.

Construction-wise, I much prefer the Leatherman tools, I just wish they’d do something with all the tools on the outside like the 800; that’s gotten me spoiled!

I’ve heard some nightmare stories from other stagehands trying to get Gerber to cover breakage under warranty.

]]> By: Matt http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18851 Matt Thu, 23 Jun 2005 01:27:47 +0000 #comment-18851 On my 4th Gerber 800 tool. I have just sent it in and they give me a new one. Great service!! On my 4th Gerber 800 tool. I have just sent it in and they give me a new one. Great service!!

]]> By: fishnetb http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18850 fishnetb Wed, 22 Jun 2005 15:23:45 +0000 #comment-18850 Julie thanks for your feed back. Great forum. Julie thanks for your feed back. Great forum.

]]> By: Julie http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18849 Julie Wed, 22 Jun 2005 14:26:33 +0000 #comment-18849 fishnetb: Of course you can mention other sites ;) I hate it when some webmasters frown on that stuff. It's like they are afraid people will go away and never come back. Phooey on that. Great site by the way... fishnetb:

Of course you can mention other sites ;) I hate it when some webmasters frown on that stuff. It’s like they are afraid people will go away and never come back. Phooey on that. Great site by the way…

]]> By: fishnetb http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18848 fishnetb Wed, 22 Jun 2005 14:03:27 +0000 #comment-18848 <span>I have been buying multipurpose tools for years. Started with a Leatherman micra and continued through the New Wave. I love them, especially for camping. I also starting buying Victorinox brand. They even have a USB key as part of the knife. I don't know if I am allowed to mention web sites but I found one that carrys a lot of different brands at good prices, <a href="http://www.multipurposetoolsngadgets.com">http://www.multipurposetoolsngadgets.com</a> if you are interested.</span> I have been buying multipurpose tools for years. Started with a Leatherman micra and continued through the New Wave. I love them, especially for camping. I also starting buying Victorinox brand. They even have a USB key as part of the knife. I don’t know if I am allowed to mention web sites but I found one that carrys a lot of different brands at good prices, http://www.multipurposetoolsngadgets.com if you are interested.

]]> By: Matt http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18847 Matt Fri, 26 Dec 2003 22:19:43 +0000 #comment-18847 Just got a package back on chirstmas eve. It was a new Gerber 800 . Awesome service!!! I wish Palm would do that when I have problems.:) Just got a package back on chirstmas eve. It was a new Gerber 800 . Awesome service!!! I wish Palm would do that when I have problems.:)

]]> By: Matt http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18846 Matt Tue, 23 Dec 2003 03:36:15 +0000 #comment-18846 I have the Gerber 800 and love it !!! I have used it since if first came out 3 years ago and was called the Geber gator! I am a firefighter by trade and we use multi purpose tools everyday. I stared out with leatherman 5 years ago and they make a great tool but in my opinion gerber has taken the lead. The auto spring handle is a must ! The replaceable carbid wire cutters are great and use them alot enough to have them replaced. I love the replaceable jig its a great idea. I like the feel of the rubber grips on the side of the gerber tool better then the wave. I use the gerber alot so much so that I have used it beyond what it is intended for . Fold the tool out and extend the file and you have a temporary door stopper. Take out the screw driver and fold the handle back leave one side open and you have a longer screw driver for added torque. I have wore out the number two screw driver, had to replace the jig and carbid blades and resharpen the regular blades alot. I have replaced my Geber 800 under warranty 3 times now. I broke the cutters inside twice now and wore out the screw drivers beyond using . I have the tool into Gerber right now for the forth time. The handle was loose on one side and the rubber on the grips where coming off. I don't know if its a defect or what so its in for service. There service has been top notch. You send in the unit and I got a new tool including case back every time. They don't mess with fixing them they just send you back a new one. I am lost with out my Gerber and can't wait to get it back!!!!! I have looked at other tools but nothing has come close to the 800 yet. Believe me I am not Company loyal so if somthing better suits my needs I will jump to it. I have the Gerber 800 and love it !!! I have used it since if first came out 3 years ago and was called the Geber gator! I am a firefighter by trade and we use multi purpose tools everyday. I stared out with leatherman 5 years ago and they make a great tool but in my opinion gerber has taken the lead. The auto spring handle is a must ! The replaceable carbid wire cutters are great and use them alot enough to have them replaced. I love the replaceable jig its a great idea. I like the feel of the rubber grips on the side of the gerber tool better then the wave.
I use the gerber alot so much so that I have used it beyond what it is intended for . Fold the tool out and extend the file and you have a temporary door stopper. Take out the screw driver and fold the handle back leave one side open and you have a longer screw driver for added torque. I have wore out the number two screw driver, had to replace the jig and carbid blades and resharpen the regular blades alot.
I have replaced my Geber 800 under warranty 3 times now. I broke the cutters inside twice now and wore out the screw drivers beyond using . I have the tool into Gerber right now for the forth time. The handle was loose on one side and the rubber on the grips where coming off. I don’t know if its a defect or what so its in for service. There service has been top notch. You send in the unit and I got a new tool including case back every time. They don’t mess with fixing them they just send you back a new one. I am lost with out my Gerber and can’t wait to get it back!!!!!
I have looked at other tools but nothing has come close to the 800 yet. Believe me I am not Company loyal so if somthing better suits my needs I will jump to it.

]]> By: Andy Leviss http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18845 Andy Leviss Sun, 21 Dec 2003 09:55:59 +0000 #comment-18845 <blockquote><em>Originally posted by dmierkin </em> <strong>The most important and usefull feature of Leatherman Wave is that is the only tool you can open a blade with ONE hand !</strong></blockquote> Not so much. The Gerber Legend reviewed in this same review not only has a one-hand knife and scissors, but uses thumb studs instead of blade cutouts; between that and the adjustable tool tension, it's much easier and more comfortable than the Wave to use with one hand. In my day job, I'm an audio technician on a nationally touring musical (<em>The Full Monty</em>), and multi-tools are practically a way of life for those of us in theatre. I originally owned a Buck, which had it's great features, but was far from perfect. Then I moved to a Wave, which I loved at the time and thought I'd never live without. The first time I saw an ad for the Legend, I laughed--it's too big, and so unnecessary. Then I tried one at a sporting goods store and I was sold. It feels much more substantial and solid, and the outside access to ALL the tools (except the pliers, of course), is a killer feature on its own, even without the new cutting blades, saw attachment, etc. Being part of the Fiskars family, the scissors on the Gerber are much more solid and durable than those on the Wave, although the latter are more comfortable to use (since they have a right angle on the push lever, rather than just a straight edge). And the spring that I thought was so silly has really grown on me. I still have my Wave in my toolbox as a spare, along with my Legend. The only time it's come out since I bought the Legend was two days ago, when I was re-organizing the box. I took it out and played with it a bit, and compared to the Gerber, it just felt like a toy. I still keep it around for emergencies and in case anybody else I'm working with needs to borrow one for a short while, but it's definitely been retired from active duty. Best, Andy

Originally posted by dmierkin
The most important and usefull feature of Leatherman Wave is that is the only tool you can open a blade with ONE hand !

Not so much. The Gerber Legend reviewed in this same review not only has a one-hand knife and scissors, but uses thumb studs instead of blade cutouts; between that and the adjustable tool tension, it’s much easier and more comfortable than the Wave to use with one hand.

In my day job, I’m an audio technician on a nationally touring musical (The Full Monty), and multi-tools are practically a way of life for those of us in theatre. I originally owned a Buck, which had it’s great features, but was far from perfect. Then I moved to a Wave, which I loved at the time and thought I’d never live without.

The first time I saw an ad for the Legend, I laughed–it’s too big, and so unnecessary. Then I tried one at a sporting goods store and I was sold. It feels much more substantial and solid, and the outside access to ALL the tools (except the pliers, of course), is a killer feature on its own, even without the new cutting blades, saw attachment, etc.

Being part of the Fiskars family, the scissors on the Gerber are much more solid and durable than those on the Wave, although the latter are more comfortable to use (since they have a right angle on the push lever, rather than just a straight edge). And the spring that I thought was so silly has really grown on me.

I still have my Wave in my toolbox as a spare, along with my Legend. The only time it’s come out since I bought the Legend was two days ago, when I was re-organizing the box. I took it out and played with it a bit, and compared to the Gerber, it just felt like a toy. I still keep it around for emergencies and in case anybody else I’m working with needs to borrow one for a short while, but it’s definitely been retired from active duty.

Best,
Andy

]]> By: 10101001011 http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18844 10101001011 Sat, 20 Dec 2003 21:41:13 +0000 #comment-18844 Just purchased the Gerber MP700 TE Limited Edition and am thus far VERY satisfied. I mostly used mine for outdoor-sy type stuff. Locking Blades Carbine cutter Screw-drivers galore - yup, I'm happy ;) Just purchased the Gerber MP700 TE Limited Edition and am thus far VERY satisfied. I mostly used mine for outdoor-sy type stuff.

Locking Blades
Carbine cutter
Screw-drivers galore – yup, I’m happy ;)

]]> By: chipster http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18843 chipster Fri, 19 Dec 2003 01:06:14 +0000 #comment-18843 <blockquote><em>Originally posted by Julie </em> [B]chipster: WOW!!!! I'm very impressed! So, do you actually use them? ;) [/B]</blockquote> Nahh....I like to set them up for display as depicted and let them scream at me to make good use out of them :D Hehehe... In all seriousness, I actually use every one of them. I choose a different one every day - similar to the task of choosing a what shirt to wear each day (don't ask what my wife thinks of me). I actually did a review of the Leatherman Wave 3 years ago <a href="http://www.epinions.com/hmgd-review-5D74-39301B92-3A4FCB90-prod5">found here</a>. Some of those tools are a tad too hefty for my 3 different Scott-E-Vests, so a lot of the time, I opt for my more "rugged" solution <a href="http://www.duluthtrading.com/a/shop/dproduct.asp?UID=2003121818482749&GEN0=&GEN1=&T1=98972+BLK&c=catbags&s=3T2PAH">found here</a>...although not as professional-looking at the office :rolleyes: -Chipster

Originally posted by Julie
[B]chipster:

WOW!!!! I’m very impressed! So, do you actually use them? ;) [/B]

Nahh….I like to set them up for display as depicted and let them scream at me to make good use out of them :D
Hehehe…

In all seriousness, I actually use every one of them. I choose a different one every day – similar to the task of choosing a what shirt to wear each day (don’t ask what my wife thinks of me).

I actually did a review of the Leatherman Wave 3 years ago found here.

Some of those tools are a tad too hefty for my 3 different Scott-E-Vests, so a lot of the time, I opt for my more “rugged” solution found here…although not as professional-looking at the office :rolleyes:

-Chipster

]]> By: Julie http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18842 Julie Thu, 18 Dec 2003 22:17:57 +0000 #comment-18842 chipster: WOW!!!! I'm very impressed! So, do you actually use them? ;) chipster:

WOW!!!! I’m very impressed! So, do you actually use them? ;)

]]> By: chipster http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18841 chipster Thu, 18 Dec 2003 22:01:08 +0000 #comment-18841 I have a few Multi-Tools... I have just about every major model. If someone wants a review of one, LMK. I have a few Multi-Tools…

I have just about every major model. If someone wants a review of one, LMK.

]]> By: Craig http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18840 Craig Thu, 18 Dec 2003 13:20:03 +0000 #comment-18840 Enjoyed your review. I have both the Leatherman Wave and the Victorinox SwissTool R/S. I like them both and have difficulty deciding which to carry. My recommendation, when someone asks, would be to choose the Wave if you DO NOT need locking screwdrivers and/or you would use this took to work with computers. I would recommend the SwissTool for those who NEED locking screwdrivers and/or those who would use this tool for "heavier" tasks such as plumbing. I have read complaints that the Wave's tools will bend or snap under too much pressure, but are perfect for computer parts. I have also read of plumbers who swear by the SwissTool because they can really crank down on the implements without fear of bending or snapping them. I have never had any problems with my multitools. Just keep in mind they do not replace one's toolbox, but rather supplement it. Right now I want the SwissTool X. I am also looking forward to the smaller, three-quarter-sized version of the SwissTool supposedly in development. -- Craig Enjoyed your review.

I have both the Leatherman Wave and the Victorinox SwissTool R/S. I like them both and have difficulty deciding which to carry.

My recommendation, when someone asks, would be to choose the Wave if you DO NOT need locking screwdrivers and/or you would use this took to work with computers.

I would recommend the SwissTool for those who NEED locking screwdrivers and/or those who would use this tool for “heavier” tasks such as plumbing.

I have read complaints that the Wave’s tools will bend or snap under too much pressure, but are perfect for computer parts. I have also read of plumbers who swear by the SwissTool because they can really crank down on the implements without fear of bending or snapping them.

I have never had any problems with my multitools. Just keep in mind they do not replace one’s toolbox, but rather supplement it.

Right now I want the SwissTool X. I am also looking forward to the smaller, three-quarter-sized version of the SwissTool supposedly in development.

– Craig

]]> By: dmierkin http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18839 dmierkin Thu, 18 Dec 2003 03:07:44 +0000 #comment-18839 The most important and usefull feature of Leatherman Wave is that is the only tool you can open a blade with ONE hand ! Usually you realize that you need to cut when you already holding the object in your hand ! So having only other hand to operate is not enough when you need both hands to open a blade. The most important and usefull feature of Leatherman Wave is that is the only tool you can open a blade with ONE hand !

Usually you realize that you need to cut when you already holding the object in your hand ! So having only other hand to operate is not enough when you need both hands to open a blade.

]]> By: Julie http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18838 Julie Thu, 18 Dec 2003 02:05:38 +0000 #comment-18838 questionfear: Are the tiny Leatherman's made as nicely as the full size ones? I like the looks of the Juice models... questionfear:

Are the tiny Leatherman’s made as nicely as the full size ones? I like the looks of the Juice models…

]]> By: questionfear http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18837 questionfear Wed, 17 Dec 2003 23:36:18 +0000 #comment-18837 While its not as large or as complex as the knives in the review, i have to recommend the leatherman micra, a tiny leatherman perfect for a keyring. I find it indespensible in my day to day work (I run a cafe) in doing minor repairs, breaking down boxes, etc. its a fantastic tool, and very inexpensive for what it does. -carly While its not as large or as complex as the knives in the review, i have to recommend the leatherman micra, a tiny leatherman perfect for a keyring.
I find it indespensible in my day to day work (I run a cafe) in doing minor repairs, breaking down boxes, etc.
its a fantastic tool, and very inexpensive for what it does.
-carly

]]> By: slortar http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18836 slortar Wed, 17 Dec 2003 23:34:58 +0000 #comment-18836 Hmmm. I have to agree - that pharmaceutical spatula guarantees that not only will it be confiscated if I try and board a plane, but that I will probably be in for an uncomfortable time! I think I might be able to make legitimate use of a wire scraper, if it wasn't completely perfunctory! A truly functional phillips bit would also be nice. OTOH, just wearing it would nicely counterbalance the bat-erang on the other side of one's belt ... Hmmm. I have to agree – that pharmaceutical spatula guarantees that not only will it be confiscated if I try and board a plane, but that I will probably be in for an uncomfortable time!

I think I might be able to make legitimate use of a wire scraper, if it wasn’t completely perfunctory! A truly functional phillips bit would also be nice. OTOH, just wearing it would nicely counterbalance the bat-erang on the other side of one’s belt …

]]> By: BluesFan http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18835 BluesFan Wed, 17 Dec 2003 22:04:19 +0000 #comment-18835 Well here are some uses toat kind of go together...sort of... Pharmaceutical spatula (measure fish drug to dope fish) Fishscaler with hook disgorger and ruler (catch and measure fish) Pruning blade (Prune fish?) Electrician's blade with wire scraper (Cut fishing line and scrape it) Magnifying Glass (closely examine fish) Phillips screwdriver (screw fish?) :-) Well here are some uses toat kind of go together…sort of…

Pharmaceutical spatula (measure fish drug to dope fish)

Fishscaler with hook disgorger and ruler (catch and measure fish)

Pruning blade (Prune fish?)

Electrician’s blade with wire scraper (Cut fishing line and scrape it)

Magnifying Glass (closely examine fish)

Phillips screwdriver (screw fish?)

:-)

]]> By: Julie http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18834 Julie Wed, 17 Dec 2003 21:52:06 +0000 #comment-18834 Hmmmm "Pharmaceutical spatula"? Is this for the meth lab geek or what? :rolleyes: Hmmmm “Pharmaceutical spatula”? Is this for the meth lab geek or what? :rolleyes:

]]> By: BluesFan http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18833 BluesFan Wed, 17 Dec 2003 20:25:05 +0000 #comment-18833 Best I can tell, it would seem to add (to the CyberTool 41) Pharmaceutical spatula Fishscaler with hook disgorger and ruler (cm & inches) Pruning blade Electrician's blade with wire scraper Magnifying Glass Phillips screwdriver HTH Best I can tell, it would seem to add (to the CyberTool 41)

Pharmaceutical spatula
Fishscaler with hook disgorger and ruler (cm & inches)
Pruning blade
Electrician’s blade with wire scraper
Magnifying Glass
Phillips screwdriver

HTH

]]> By: slortar http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18832 slortar Wed, 17 Dec 2003 20:12:43 +0000 #comment-18832 Julie and bluesfan, I must sheepishly admit I forgot your review of the 34 (which I actually have, too) from back in the day. I do clearly remember being acutely jealous of the Mobius goodies, so I must be getting old? I think you might both be right that there is nothing new and I have not noticed the 41 before. I did notice on ThinkGeek that they are selling a "SwissChamp XLT" which must be the Ford Excursion of cybertools -- I'd love to know if you guys think it's worth the c-note they are charging! Julie and bluesfan,

I must sheepishly admit I forgot your review of the 34 (which I actually have, too) from back in the day. I do clearly remember being acutely jealous of the Mobius goodies, so I must be getting old?

I think you might both be right that there is nothing new and I have not noticed the 41 before. I did notice on ThinkGeek that they are selling a “SwissChamp XLT” which must be the Ford Excursion of cybertools — I’d love to know if you guys think it’s worth the c-note they are charging!

]]> By: BluesFan http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18831 BluesFan Wed, 17 Dec 2003 17:42:30 +0000 #comment-18831 Actually as far as I can tell, they haven't changed the CyberTool. The "34" model was the one reviewed, however, there is a "29" with a few less gadgets and "41" model with a few more gadgets. I like my "34" because I find I have no need for the saws and files of the "41" but couldn't do without the scissors and pliers of that the "29" lacks. The online retailer I purchased mine from does name engraving and had what I thought were good deals. At the time of purchase, I also got the Cordura belt pouch and it fits the knife perfectly. Actually as far as I can tell, they haven’t changed the CyberTool. The “34″ model was the one reviewed, however, there is a “29″ with a few less gadgets and “41″ model with a few more gadgets. I like my “34″ because I find I have no need for the saws and files of the “41″ but couldn’t do without the scissors and pliers of that the “29″ lacks. The online retailer I purchased mine from does name engraving and had what I thought were good deals. At the time of purchase, I also got the Cordura belt pouch and it fits the knife perfectly.

]]> By: Julie http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18830 Julie Wed, 17 Dec 2003 12:39:00 +0000 #comment-18830 slortar: I'll see what I can do about a review of the new Cybertools. Do you happen to know what is new and different in comparison to the review I did last year? slortar:

I’ll see what I can do about a review of the new Cybertools. Do you happen to know what is new and different in comparison to the review I did last year?

]]> By: slortar http://the-gadgeteer.com/2003/12/16/multi_tools_review/comment-page-1/#comment-18829 slortar Wed, 17 Dec 2003 09:08:12 +0000 #comment-18829 <blockquote><em>Originally posted by BluesFan </em> <strong>I still love my Swiss Army CyberTool 34 (<a href="http://www.the-gadgeteer.com/swissarmy-cybertool-review.html">http://www.the-gadgeteer.com/swissarmy-cybertool-review.html</a>) </strong></blockquote> Right on, BluesFan! I've had both a leatherman and a cybertool, and as a geek who has to work on HP/Compaq equipment, I could not do without the Torx bits. Julie, any chance you could do a review on the new cybertools? Mine's getting a bit beat upon and I'm wondering if I should spring for a new one. Does anyone know if there's another product like them?

Originally posted by BluesFan
I still love my Swiss Army CyberTool 34 (http://www.the-gadgeteer.com/swissarmy-cybertool-review.html)

Right on, BluesFan! I’ve had both a leatherman and a cybertool, and as a geek who has to work on HP/Compaq equipment, I could not do without the Torx bits.

Julie, any chance you could do a review on the new cybertools? Mine’s getting a bit beat upon and I’m wondering if I should spring for a new one. Does anyone know if there’s another product like them?

]]>