I used the regular Skeletool for 7 years at my job working at a garden centre. I had such muscle memory grabbing it from the holster that it took me a year or so to stop reaching for it when I had a box to open! I do have a few negatives that I'd love to see addressed in an 'upgrade' version. Firstly I never used the carabiner to clip onto anything, despite thinking I would when I bought it - I just used the included holster and failing that would have re-attached the pocket clip (I took it off). Secondly the pliers had a bit of a flex to them when used on anything too tough. Thirdly I managed to pinch my skin between the two 'arms' a few times and wish there was more gap to avoid that. Fourthly I feel like the bit driver could easily be enlarged to support regular sized bits, with extra bit storage in the mainly-unused carabiner area. I'd love to be able to carry decent Pozidrive, Philips, flat and hex bits in one EDC. Finally, I don't like the feel of the curved side when using the pliers - it looks cool but would feel better if it were a little shallower curve. Still. It served me well and is still looking great despite being used regularly 5 days a week for 7 years!
Yeah I hate serrated knife blades. Just have never had many occasions where I feel like I needed one or cut well. Granted most are also not evenly angled on both sides so that can make them hard to cut straight with. And to me they are harder to sharpen. Yeah I know it can be done, but why when I don't really need it. A really sharp non-serrated blade does all I need to do with a knife. I also think the bottle openers almost all multi-tools have seems ridiculous. How many people drink beer in bottles that need an opener and is there another beverage that needs that type of opener? What about a cork screw like the old swiss army knives had? Where are those?
@@mickjager5974 totally agree they should allow u to customize it when u order so if u don’t want bottle opener they will install another tool of your choice in it’s place
@@jaredharris1970 Actually I think Leatherman will let you build your own knife within reason. I didn't look in to it because I figured if I tried to get a non CX skeletool with a custom non-serrated blade it would cost as much if not more that just a Skeletool CX.
I've been carrying Leatherman for a while. I own two Skeletool CX and Freestyle CX...simplicity in both tools and very lightweight EDC. Can't go wrong with the 154cm blade. I also like it's a straight blade, and the bottle opener is a must for me.
I have been EDC'ing the base Skeletool for about 10 years and have enjoyed the platform. The one thing that annoyed me was the combo blade, which I could never find just the straight blade for. I recently bought the Skeletool KB just to transplant the blade, it is still 420hc. For me 420hc gets the job done and is easier to field service.
We liked the 420hc too, We found the non serrated blade (154cm) a bit 'techy' to sharpen to a "razor" edge. The 420hc won't hold as "cute" of a 'Belly' but is still very lovely.
Texas tool crafters makes a great Damascus replacement blade for the skeletool. very sharp and rigid. and it gives the tool a personalized touch. each blade is unique along with its own serial#.
I dont like the black version because it looks scuffed up quite fast, so i got the standard version with the normal blade (it was available in this form here directly from leatherman). Best of both worlds…
Once I experienced the Super cutting power of the serrated blade of the tiny Gerber vise, I'll never carry a knife without AT LEAST part of the blade serrated. The speed with which that blade could cut thu thick rope, light strand copper wire compared to much larger straight blades blew my mind. If you ever need to cut leather or any rope fast, you'll see why of a a serrated blade. Hope Leatherman will go with standard hexagonal bits in future, instead of the weird flat, available-from-Leatherman-Only ones
I've had mine over 6yrs & it's still like new & I love it compared to all my other Leatherman Tools. Those broke in one way or another, I have the CX & I've used it many times in a pinch. Especially good because I use it in or around Saltwater, my deer feeders, etc. On the TX Coast 🤟
Can't believe I haven't seen this before. I've been carrying a CX in my pocket or clipped to a belt loop, for the last few years, on a daily basis. One thing I never see anyone comment on, is the space between the 2 sides of the handle, when using the pliers. Using a pinch grip to control the force of the jaws, my fat fingers still fit, unlike my original Wave. Even outside of work, I probably use it several times a day. The other cool thing about the carabiner, it works great for hooking the lid of my camp pot to avoid burning my fingers. I sharpen the blade with wet/dry sandpaper & strop it with green compound. I find that it sharpens up quickly, no issues. I picked up an Ontario Blackbird, just because it was the same steel. Too bad I didn't care for the handle & sold it, soon thereafter.
My original Skeletool was the CX model, but it had the half regular and half serrated blade. I carried and used it for several years. Then, I somehow lost it. Researching a replacement, I looked at other model Leatherman tools but found that the Skeletool was, for me, just about perfect. Fairly thin and lightweight and only having the tools that I actually need / use. So, I bought another Skeletool. This time, though, I just got the regular stainless steel model. Again, with the half regular half serrated blade. I prefer this blade. I don't see a real world difference in these two models, but I do see a price difference in them. Anyway, my new basic model Skeletool is perfect, for me, and I'll be more careful and, hopefully, own this one for the rest of my life.
We totes had a similar get up only We named Ours and called them the 'Sugar Twins'; "Sweet like Sugar; Cruel like Cancer" ... anyhow both Zelda and Belle are both lost to time but the Skeletool platform is a phenomenal EDC. Like Wow!!! We used the split end of the Carabiner for an unspecified but PERFECT/CONSTANT purpose in Our former Trade. No complaints about the screwdriver or bit drives. We also used the bottle opener a ton as well. Similar to another video; We can vouch that the pliers are evidently a tad "light Use"; We lent Our original out and was returned to Us with the pliers broken but under circumstances We ourselves never would have used them for. So We actually didn't mind even carrying the original mangled. Neither of course are currently in Our possession but such a wonderfully bundled EDC.
ill never retire my pocket knife, ill carry both. its a matter of selecting the proper clothing with enough pockets. the 511 pant jeans are great for this
I love my skeletool cx. I use my knife more than anything else on it so being able to open the knife with one hand without unfolding the tool is a must. Plus i can't stand having things attached to my belt to catch on doors, seatbelts, equipment. Also not sure what an inch of serrated blade does for anyone other than create a sharpening nightmare.
I got a replacement 154CM blade from Amazon, it comes from Texas Toolcrafters. I can attest that it is the true CX blade. I have had more than 50 skeletools, original and CX, come through my shop and am still kicking myself for selling the plain edge stainless Skeletool that I had some months back. I liked them but they sell too well to try and hold on to one. I finally got a slightly scratched up stainless with a broken blade and replaced it with the 154CM I mentioned earlier. It is my EDC now and I love it.
Didn't know Tim Tebow did multi tool reviews. But I just bought the Skeletool (regular version), and hope the 420HC blade holds up. I was more enamored with the CX version for the 154cm, but for twice the money, I just wasn't willing, especially when I have a small collection of solid knives at my disposal. I got it mostly for the pliers and the driver (am planning on getting the extender and the extra bits). *edit*, plus I carry a Swisscard, which covers me when I need a small pair of scissors or tweezers.
THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS THE BLADE THATS ALL AND SOME FAUX CARBON FIBER THAT DOESNT DO MUCH BUT SHED MILLIGRAMS OF WEIGHT GET THE NORMAL ONE AND BUY THE CX BLADE ONLINE
Just got the Skeletool CX. The steel in the knife is fantastic- absolutely cuts like butthole. The way the pliers grips sit in your hand has great leverage and comfort.
I've owned the CX for about 2 year now. Great every day tool. I carry it in my front pocket every day. Daily routine; grab truck keys, cell, wallet and skeletool. It's become so routine I don't even know I'm grabbing it. You don't need those Swiss army knives that have 30 different little tools in it. Too bulky and you won't ever use even a third of the tools. This tool comes in handy all the time. Just yesterday I was changing one of my solar fence post lights on the deck. Some of screws were rusted and I could turn them out using my screw driver. Busted out the pliers from the skeletool and cranked the screws free. Not saying I'd want turn screws like that all day long but for a short little on the fly job like that. That's were it shines.
CX. My alltime favorite carry tool. The blade is far superior, both smooth and serrated models. Fits the hand perfectly, and the pocket... Even carry a red full serrated model clipped on my tree climbing harness
Great review! Leatherman really hit the sweet spot with this one. I got the CX for work and now I am EDCing this thing all of the time. The 154CM is really holding up to some hard use as well.
Perfect skeletool model for the working man. Instead of a blade have a utility blade exchanger. Make the bit drivers a 1/4 so it can take any bits from hardware store. And just add replaceable cutters. Be an awesome build
Another hint for you guys. If you buy a Leatherman MUT bit kit, it will give you the small bit that COMBINES the Phillips head with the Flat head. If you replace that bit on your Skeletool, you now have the option to carry another style of bit inside the carrier (like the torx bit that fits an AR-15) without losing your screwdriver option. I use the CX every day as my EDC and love it!!
+gideonstactical. Also, while somewhat expensive… Here's your black specialty blade to put on the Skeletool. A Damascus blade from: txtoolcrafters.com/collections/addons-and-accessories
I just wanted to say that ever since I was 12 and received a permit (if you will) to cary a pocket knife. from boyscout group. I had carried a small pocket knife. Well as you know life is at times unpredictable, so you must be prepared. At our scout meeting that was our slogan "Be Prepared". So I always carried a pocket knife. when I began to get older I had other needs then just a well sharpened knife. so I looked around and have been liking around for a good multi tool that would work. with out having the bits slip of like the S.O.G. RC 1001 a few other off brands from Ace Hardware or Home Depot. that didn't really fit what I needed. so I looked at your video bought one, I be had it for a few weeks now and unlike it really just sits well with my daily uses. I just wanted too say thanx and I subscribed too your channel today.
Sweet tool would be a great gift but can’t justify buying one. I need pliers occasionally but scissors or saw much more frequently. My 20 year old classic LM (from when they had very few models - closest to the current Rebar) is a portable tool kit that lives in my day pack. Built like a tank and good as the day I got it. For hiking I changeout to the compact Juice CS4 (blue), a complete multi-tool that can handle anything on the trail. Neither of these are single hand openers but that’s not a requirement for me. These are tool kits that augment and don’t replace my EDC pocketknife or my Kephart in the woods.
I still carry a ES4 on my key chain as a backup and because I'm forgetful and the keys are something that I never leave the house without (that's why there's a Nitecore Tube, a USB stick, a micro USB cable and a pill container with 100 bucks inside on my key chain). But yeah, the Skeletool CX has replaced my Charge TTi because it's so much easier to carry and I find that it has all the tools that I ever use really.
karm42yn - I relegated the Charge to edc backpack duty a few years back and haven't regretted it. I still love and rarely pocket-carry my Charge but your point about he Skeletool is right on. I think it's the best tool ever made. Of any kind.
I love mine, thanks for the tip on the replacement blades. I've carried mine daily for 5-6 years. when I carry mine I clip the carabiner to the top seam of my pants pocket, so it can't fall out on accident.
Same here for using the carabiner clip. Sure, it takes a bit more to get it out, but at least I know it is solid. Plus it looks a bit more discreet than a pocket clip
Yep--the CX always had the better steel, but they swapped which one had the serrations shortly after it debuted. There's also a Skeletool SX, which has a diamond file, and the Freestyle, which lacks the carabiner and bit driver. (Why they couldn't still include a bit driver is beyond me, but I know I'd carry a smaller Skeletool.)
The skeletool cx is the sweet spot. The blade quality is great for edc and like you have had both. The tool is so handy and i have found it does all i need daily! The tool is mainly used as a blade and having 154cm on board rocks?
ajfam871 I agree. From all my knives, the skeletool is the first and only partially serrated blade I own. I am surprisingly happy on how useful that blade is for cutting rope and fabrics I don't like serrations on my folders but it fits my needs perfectly in a multi tool. I carry the skeletool everywhere I go.
I have the CX and I got it for 40 percent off. It's great, but not worth the 105 Canadian they ask for at full price. It's great for 420 Cannibis smokers lol. I have my CX in my pocket everyday outside of work with my Hinderer Xm18, and my Surge and Crunch at work everyday.
I bought this for my 11 y/o son who crossed over to the Boy Scouts and earned the right to carry a knife. I decided on this vs a fixed blade or a folder. Those will come later. At first he wasn't hip on it until a couple of adults commented on it. Then dad hadn't made such a bad decision in his eyes and it was cool for him to carry all the time. Nice quick precise review you did.
Glad I saw this video. I have been thinking of getting one of these. I like that they are simple with just a blade, pliers, can& bottle opener & screw driver. I don't need anything else & don't need the size & weight in my pocket or pack. The blade on the CX sold me on that version. Like gideonstactical I am not a fan of serrated blades. Good blade upgrade option for owners of the original tool. Although I don't care for the proprietary driver bits & offset driving motion (yeah, I know about the new gerber) I will just go straight to the CX & be done with it.
A lot of people on you tube talks about the blade, but no one say anything about the pliers and wire cutters . I just snapped the pliers at work 2 weeks ago. I sent it to leatherman for repairs. Just wondering if the pliers is a upgrade on the cx ?. I have the regular skelettool.
I used to carry folders exclusively until I bought the CX, now I swap between the CX and sog reactor as my daily carry. It's just more useful to have a pair of pliers and a blade built into one tool imo.
Davis Netterville - I did that for a short while too. Problem is, I use bit drivers a lot and the SOG plain sucks at it. It's awful. It feels like a multi-tool. The Skeletool does not. The other problem was the crap ergonomics when applying pressure with the pliers, not to mention the blood blisters it gave me from pinches. The Reactor has a good blade though. I can give it a better edge than the 154cm Skele but that could be my problem and not the Leatherman's.
I just cant believe how long that blade keeps razor sharp, bought my cx few months ago and i never did more than a few stropes when new and its cutting like the first day forever!
unfortunately it seems you can no longer find the 154cm blade on amazon. I just picked up the skeletool because you can still get it at the home depot for only $30. Great bang for your buck.
I want to replace my 10+ year well worn daily usage wave with the skeletool. Only tool I will really miss from the wave is the can opener. And the biner is sort of pointless I will carry it in a sheath anyway. Wish that biner was a can opener/ belt cutter instead.
Unpopular opinion: The Leatherman Skeletool is very overrated. There are simply not enough tools to justify the price tag. For around the same price you can get the Wingman or the Sidekick which both have more tools, at just the expense of 4 ounces more weight. The only true advantage the Skeletool has over these other options is the interchangeable bit driver. However, even this has its flaws, because unlike the Wave, the tool can not be used with the skeletool in the closed position. It covers the bit when it is closed, rather than having a folding bit like the Wave. As far as bang for your buck, the Skeletool just doesn’t cut it.
“Light duty” pliers is an appropriate description. Do not twist them if you can help it. I broke my first one and they replaced it. Pro tip from them: Keep the screwdriver bits before sending your broken one in, you’ll need them as they pop out if you drop the tool on pavement.
Actually the black on your beige pants stands out more than what the stainless/silver would. Why would black look more cool? Black is a generic cheap look to me. Silver looks more shiny and looks fancier. Stainless silver appliances in a kitchen look better than black. The natural color of the stainless is silver where the black has to be colored and could fade or rub off.
I like a black finish on my knives/multitools so that after time it creates a patina with all the scratches and wear on it. Just my liking tho. I’m an aircraft mechanic and I use the skeleton daily.
well, i love my knives half serrated and the stainless steel look is better as it will not chip and rub off and look ugly in the long run... hence the original one is the best for me. Thanks for the video.
Actually when the Skeletool was first released I bought one and it had a non-serrated blade as a variant even if it was not a CX model. I still own it. I don't think the blade is 154CM steel though. I no longer see that variant in the leatherman catalogue nowadays.
Have to be honest, I wanted to love the Skeletool. But that one sweeping handle meant I couldn't get a good solid grip on it when using the pliers. My hand would literally slide off. Plus, when bearing down on the tool, the lock mechanism would move due to the liner-lock being exposed so much. But I did find another Leatherman tool to replace both a multi-tool and a knife. The Signal's more 90-degree angle carabiner clip helped to hold onto the pliers during the use, and I found the liner-lock was not quite as exposed as on the Skeletool. I could bear down on the signal with no issues. I will say I don't like its shiny clip, nor the price-tag since at $100.oo you don't even get a 154CM blade.
I am an expat from Philippines and I have a Leatherman bought in Saudi the only trouble is the knife and sheath broke d blade a wornout sheath want to bring it back to its original look it's a '90 model and d tool need advice
Great video and comparison. After watching your video I picked up the original model of the skeletool because it was $41 cheaper than the cx. The cx is almost double the price of the original. Leatheman really makes you pay a premium for the "cool" factor. I don't see any reason to pay that much more for an item like this.
Andrew DeJoseph - I have EDC'd the CX since it was new. You're spot on - in general I've never found enough of a quality or usability discrepancy between the lower model and the CX to justify the price for anyone other than an enthusiast. Same goes for the Charge vs Wave. I always recommend people buy the cheaper model. Leatherman's 420 steel on the blades is very good and is easy to sharpen.
John Parinello Jr. the skeletool is a multitool for who needs just a few tools but in very good shape and quality. If you have a super tool 300 maybe doesn’t make sense to buy a skeletool, but if you need to buy a tool, there are some reasons to buy it instead of a bigger and more complex one. One of all: the compact dimensions, but also the simple rule of “more things it have, more possibilities there are that something broke” i like to keep it simple ;)
So I'm needin to buy a CX lol In all honestly, I've been wanting to pick a Skeletool CX for aslong as I've been doing EDC stuff. And I've wanted to CX simply because of the 154cm steel. But now coming into the Fall and Winter, being able to not have to carry a multi tool plus blades would be super handy. Less chance of things going missing while out on the motorcycle lol Hope you and the family are doing well :)
So what do you think of the freestyle cx? Basically a skeletool, but just with a blade and pliers, nothing else. A little lighter and quite a bit smaller. I found myself that I almost never use the screwdrivers anyway, so the freestyle is perfect for me as it carries even better
Wartstein - the Freestyle is ok but is not Skeletool quality as it is imported vs being domestic. I bought several Freestyles as gifts and the quality difference is readily apparent, or at least was four years ago.
Hey really like your channel thanks for the review i was in the market for multi tool. So glad i checked out your video. I am getting a Skeletool CX looks awesome and has all the tools i need for daily use. Keep the videos coming you do a awesome job.
The only thing I don't like about the skeletool is that the pliers don't have springs. If this thing had spring loaded pliers it would be perfect for me.
I used the regular Skeletool for 7 years at my job working at a garden centre. I had such muscle memory grabbing it from the holster that it took me a year or so to stop reaching for it when I had a box to open! I do have a few negatives that I'd love to see addressed in an 'upgrade' version. Firstly I never used the carabiner to clip onto anything, despite thinking I would when I bought it - I just used the included holster and failing that would have re-attached the pocket clip (I took it off). Secondly the pliers had a bit of a flex to them when used on anything too tough. Thirdly I managed to pinch my skin between the two 'arms' a few times and wish there was more gap to avoid that. Fourthly I feel like the bit driver could easily be enlarged to support regular sized bits, with extra bit storage in the mainly-unused carabiner area. I'd love to be able to carry decent Pozidrive, Philips, flat and hex bits in one EDC. Finally, I don't like the feel of the curved side when using the pliers - it looks cool but would feel better if it were a little shallower curve. Still. It served me well and is still looking great despite being used regularly 5 days a week for 7 years!
Fix your screen door
Using the skeletool !
@@cristianoruggeri5719 and Naked :)
gideonstactical: Like and subscribe?
Bully Maguire: You get your like when you FIX THIS DAMN DOOR!
😆
I find your comment rather shallow and pedantic.
I too prefer the non-serrated blade.
good
Yeah I hate serrated knife blades. Just have never had many occasions where I feel like I needed one or cut well. Granted most are also not evenly angled on both sides so that can make them hard to cut straight with. And to me they are harder to sharpen. Yeah I know it can be done, but why when I don't really need it. A really sharp non-serrated blade does all I need to do with a knife. I also think the bottle openers almost all multi-tools have seems ridiculous. How many people drink beer in bottles that need an opener and is there another beverage that needs that type of opener? What about a cork screw like the old swiss army knives had? Where are those?
@@mickjager5974 totally agree they should allow u to customize it when u order so if u don’t want bottle opener they will install another tool of your choice in it’s place
@@jaredharris1970 Actually I think Leatherman will let you build your own knife within reason. I didn't look in to it because I figured if I tried to get a non CX skeletool with a custom non-serrated blade it would cost as much if not more that just a Skeletool CX.
I don't need it at all, but I'm purchasing the CX =)
I've been carrying Leatherman for a while. I own two Skeletool CX and Freestyle CX...simplicity in both tools and very lightweight EDC. Can't go wrong with the 154cm blade. I also like it's a straight blade, and the bottle opener is a must for me.
Nice!
I have been EDC'ing the base Skeletool for about 10 years and have enjoyed the platform. The one thing that annoyed me was the combo blade, which I could never find just the straight blade for. I recently bought the Skeletool KB just to transplant the blade, it is still 420hc. For me 420hc gets the job done and is easier to field service.
We liked the 420hc too, We found the non serrated blade (154cm) a bit 'techy' to sharpen to a "razor" edge. The 420hc won't hold as "cute" of a 'Belly' but is still very lovely.
Texas tool crafters makes a great Damascus replacement blade for the skeletool. very sharp and rigid. and it gives the tool a personalized touch. each blade is unique along with its own serial#.
I dont like the black version because it looks scuffed up quite fast, so i got the standard version with the normal blade (it was available in this form here directly from leatherman). Best of both worlds…
Once I experienced the Super cutting power of the serrated blade of the tiny Gerber vise, I'll never carry a knife without AT LEAST part of the blade serrated. The speed with which that blade could cut thu thick rope, light strand copper wire compared to much larger straight blades blew my mind. If you ever need to cut leather or any rope fast, you'll see why of a a serrated blade. Hope Leatherman will go with standard hexagonal bits in future, instead of the weird flat, available-from-Leatherman-Only ones
You are 100% correct. Partial serrated is the way to go.
I've had mine over 6yrs & it's still like new & I love it compared to all my other Leatherman Tools. Those broke in one way or another, I have the CX & I've used it many times in a pinch. Especially good because I use it in or around Saltwater, my deer feeders, etc. On the TX Coast 🤟
Can't believe I haven't seen this before. I've been carrying a CX in my pocket or clipped to a belt loop, for the last few years, on a daily basis. One thing I never see anyone comment on, is the space between the 2 sides of the handle, when using the pliers. Using a pinch grip to control the force of the jaws, my fat fingers still fit, unlike my original Wave. Even outside of work, I probably use it several times a day. The other cool thing about the carabiner, it works great for hooking the lid of my camp pot to avoid burning my fingers. I sharpen the blade with wet/dry sandpaper & strop it with green compound. I find that it sharpens up quickly, no issues. I picked up an Ontario Blackbird, just because it was the same steel. Too bad I didn't care for the handle & sold it, soon thereafter.
My original Skeletool was the CX model, but it had the half regular and half serrated blade. I carried and used it for several years. Then, I somehow lost it. Researching a replacement, I looked at other model Leatherman tools but found that the Skeletool was, for me, just about perfect. Fairly thin and lightweight and only having the tools that I actually need / use. So, I bought another Skeletool. This time, though, I just got the regular stainless steel model. Again, with the half regular half serrated blade. I prefer this blade. I don't see a real world difference in these two models, but I do see a price difference in them. Anyway, my new basic model Skeletool is perfect, for me, and I'll be more careful and, hopefully, own this one for the rest of my life.
The Instructor the CX version has, by many standards, a better knife blade steel.
I agree. slightly better steel is not worth almost 50% more in price.
I've had one of these for a few years and your assessment is spot on. This tool just works. I carry it every day at work.
Awesomeness glad to hear it!!
What do you think of the new RX version?
Blue Mountain Bushcraft and Outdoors I use mine for at home of on the town EDC tool
We totes had a similar get up only We named Ours and called them the 'Sugar Twins'; "Sweet like Sugar; Cruel like Cancer" ... anyhow both Zelda and Belle are both lost to time but the Skeletool platform is a phenomenal EDC. Like Wow!!! We used the split end of the Carabiner for an unspecified but PERFECT/CONSTANT purpose in Our former Trade. No complaints about the screwdriver or bit drives. We also used the bottle opener a ton as well. Similar to another video; We can vouch that the pliers are evidently a tad "light Use"; We lent Our original out and was returned to Us with the pliers broken but under circumstances We ourselves never would have used them for. So We actually didn't mind even carrying the original mangled. Neither of course are currently in Our possession but such a wonderfully bundled EDC.
ill never retire my pocket knife, ill carry both. its a matter of selecting the proper clothing with enough pockets. the 511 pant jeans are great for this
I love my skeletool cx. I use my knife more than anything else on it so being able to open the knife with one hand without unfolding the tool is a must. Plus i can't stand having things attached to my belt to catch on doors, seatbelts, equipment. Also not sure what an inch of serrated blade does for anyone other than create a sharpening nightmare.
I got a replacement 154CM blade from Amazon, it comes from Texas Toolcrafters. I can attest that it is the true CX blade. I have had more than 50 skeletools, original and CX, come through my shop and am still kicking myself for selling the plain edge stainless Skeletool that I had some months back. I liked them but they sell too well to try and hold on to one. I finally got a slightly scratched up stainless with a broken blade and replaced it with the 154CM I mentioned earlier. It is my EDC now and I love it.
Nice option with the blade upgrade. I also see I am not the only one with trashed screen doors; what the kids don't destroy, the dogs do.
Didn't know Tim Tebow did multi tool reviews. But I just bought the Skeletool (regular version), and hope the 420HC blade holds up. I was more enamored with the CX version for the 154cm, but for twice the money, I just wasn't willing, especially when I have a small collection of solid knives at my disposal. I got it mostly for the pliers and the driver (am planning on getting the extender and the extra bits).
*edit*, plus I carry a Swisscard, which covers me when I need a small pair of scissors or tweezers.
Wife got me this for Christmas and I love it. Really didn't think I would but just days after Christmas I see myself using it a few times a day.
THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS THE BLADE THATS ALL AND SOME FAUX CARBON FIBER THAT DOESNT DO MUCH BUT SHED MILLIGRAMS OF WEIGHT GET THE NORMAL ONE AND BUY THE CX BLADE ONLINE
Great review sir! You have a Radio DJ voice, comes across very clear and pleasant. Keep up the great reviews!
Kevin Myers I agree he could totally be a radio dj, or maybe even a news anchor
Just got the Skeletool CX. The steel in the knife is fantastic- absolutely cuts like butthole.
The way the pliers grips sit in your hand has great leverage and comfort.
Cuts like butthole. That's how I like my knives!
Always thought the Skeletool was pretty cool, but never bought one because of serrated blade. Thanks for the detailed review of CX version.
No problem, glad you enjoyed it.
I've owned the CX for about 2 year now. Great every day tool. I carry it in my front pocket every day. Daily routine; grab truck keys, cell, wallet and skeletool. It's become so routine I don't even know I'm grabbing it. You don't need those Swiss army knives that have 30 different little tools in it. Too bulky and you won't ever use even a third of the tools. This tool comes in handy all the time. Just yesterday I was changing one of my solar fence post lights on the deck. Some of screws were rusted and I could turn them out using my screw driver. Busted out the pliers from the skeletool and cranked the screws free. Not saying I'd want turn screws like that all day long but for a short little on the fly job like that. That's were it shines.
CX. My alltime favorite carry tool.
The blade is far superior, both smooth and serrated models.
Fits the hand perfectly, and the pocket... Even carry a red full serrated model clipped on my tree climbing harness
Great review! Leatherman really hit the sweet spot with this one. I got the CX for work and now I am EDCing this thing all of the time. The 154CM is really holding up to some hard use as well.
Sweet
Perfect skeletool model for the working man.
Instead of a blade have a utility blade exchanger. Make the bit drivers a 1/4 so it can take any bits from hardware store. And just add replaceable cutters. Be an awesome build
The black coating makes the CX corrosion and rust resistant.
Another hint for you guys. If you buy a Leatherman MUT bit kit, it will give you the small bit that COMBINES the Phillips head with the Flat head. If you replace that bit on your Skeletool, you now have the option to carry another style of bit inside the carrier (like the torx bit that fits an AR-15) without losing your screwdriver option. I use the CX every day as my EDC and love it!!
Awesome!!!
+gideonstactical. Also, while somewhat expensive… Here's your black specialty blade to put on the Skeletool. A Damascus blade from:
txtoolcrafters.com/collections/addons-and-accessories
I just wanted to say that ever since I was 12 and received a permit (if you will) to cary a pocket knife. from boyscout group. I had carried a small pocket knife. Well as you know life is at times unpredictable, so you must be prepared. At our scout meeting that was our slogan "Be Prepared". So I always carried a pocket knife. when I began to get older I had other needs then just a well sharpened knife. so I looked around and have been liking around for a good multi tool that would work. with out having the bits slip of like the S.O.G. RC 1001 a few other off brands from Ace Hardware or Home Depot. that didn't really fit what I needed. so I looked at your video bought one, I be had it for a few weeks now and unlike it really just sits well with my daily uses. I just wanted too say thanx and I subscribed too your channel today.
Sweet tool would be a great gift but can’t justify buying one. I need pliers occasionally but scissors or saw much more frequently. My 20 year old classic LM (from when they had very few models - closest to the current Rebar) is a portable tool kit that lives in my day pack. Built like a tank and good as the day I got it. For hiking I changeout to the compact Juice CS4 (blue), a complete multi-tool that can handle anything on the trail. Neither of these are single hand openers but that’s not a requirement for me. These are tool kits that augment and don’t replace my EDC pocketknife or my Kephart in the woods.
Es una multiherramienta muy completa... pero debería Mejorar la posición del destornillador,... el gancho con Clip limita el uso del destornillador
I still carry a ES4 on my key chain as a backup and because I'm forgetful and the keys are something that I never leave the house without (that's why there's a Nitecore Tube, a USB stick, a micro USB cable and a pill container with 100 bucks inside on my key chain). But yeah, the Skeletool CX has replaced my Charge TTi because it's so much easier to carry and I find that it has all the tools that I ever use really.
karm42yn - I relegated the Charge to edc backpack duty a few years back and haven't regretted it. I still love and rarely pocket-carry my Charge but your point about he Skeletool is right on. I think it's the best tool ever made. Of any kind.
I love mine, thanks for the tip on the replacement blades. I've carried mine daily for 5-6 years. when I carry mine I clip the carabiner to the top seam of my pants pocket, so it can't fall out on accident.
Same here for using the carabiner clip. Sure, it takes a bit more to get it out, but at least I know it is solid. Plus it looks a bit more discreet than a pocket clip
T Barr Nice tip on the carbiner. I will try it out tomorrow.
I bought an orignal Skeletool years ago and it came with a plain edge.
They also have an orange RX model with 154cm and a glass breaker bit.
Interesting
Yep--the CX always had the better steel, but they swapped which one had the serrations shortly after it debuted.
There's also a Skeletool SX, which has a diamond file, and the Freestyle, which lacks the carabiner and bit driver. (Why they couldn't still include a bit driver is beyond me, but I know I'd carry a smaller Skeletool.)
The skeletool cx is the sweet spot. The blade quality is great for edc and like you have had both. The tool is so handy and i have found it does all i need daily! The tool is mainly used as a blade and having 154cm on board rocks?
I started w the Skeletool before I dove first into the Leatherman game and I couldn't be happier. Very handy!
I have the FDE/Black version I love it. I find the blade on multi tools good enough for most edc tasks.
ajfam871 I agree. From all my knives, the skeletool is the first and only partially serrated blade I own. I am surprisingly happy on how useful that blade is for cutting rope and fabrics I don't like serrations on my folders but it fits my needs perfectly in a multi tool. I carry the skeletool everywhere I go.
I have the CX and I got it for 40 percent off. It's great, but not worth the 105 Canadian they ask for at full price. It's great for 420 Cannibis smokers lol. I have my CX in my pocket everyday outside of work with my Hinderer Xm18, and my Surge and Crunch at work everyday.
I bought this for my 11 y/o son who crossed over to the Boy Scouts and earned the right to carry a knife. I decided on this vs a fixed blade or a folder. Those will come later. At first he wasn't hip on it until a couple of adults commented on it. Then dad hadn't made such a bad decision in his eyes and it was cool for him to carry all the time. Nice quick precise review you did.
Glad I saw this video. I have been thinking of getting one of these. I like that they are simple with just a blade, pliers, can& bottle opener & screw driver. I don't need anything else & don't need the size & weight in my pocket or pack.
The blade on the CX sold me on that version. Like gideonstactical I am not a fan of serrated blades. Good blade upgrade option for owners of the original tool. Although I don't care for the proprietary driver bits & offset driving motion (yeah, I know about the new gerber) I will just go straight to the CX & be done with it.
I have this multi tool and I loved it, and my only complaint for it is that I wish it had replaceable wire cutters.
Thanks for your review and opinion 👍
I just got the original on closeout at homedepot, $15 a piece!
A lot of people on you tube talks about the blade, but no one say anything about the pliers and wire cutters . I just snapped the pliers at work 2 weeks ago. I sent it to leatherman for repairs. Just wondering if the pliers is a upgrade on the cx ?. I have the regular skelettool.
good quality video. Helped me decide on the CX version. Appreciate you taking the time to put the video up.
just picked up a skeletool original for $26 on an open box discount deal. wish i could find the 154cm PE blade upgrade
Thanks for the video! Best explanation of the differences I have found, cemented my decision.
I nonwork carry a CX also KB. There's a light hammer mod using a short bolt and nut that adds to the function.
I used to carry folders exclusively until I bought the CX, now I swap between the CX and sog reactor as my daily carry. It's just more useful to have a pair of pliers and a blade built into one tool imo.
Davis Netterville - I did that for a short while too. Problem is, I use bit drivers a lot and the SOG plain sucks at it. It's awful. It feels like a multi-tool. The Skeletool does not. The other problem was the crap ergonomics when applying pressure with the pliers, not to mention the blood blisters it gave me from pinches. The Reactor has a good blade though. I can give it a better edge than the 154cm Skele but that could be my problem and not the Leatherman's.
Just ordered mine from their website 🙂 stoked
I just cant believe how long that blade keeps razor sharp, bought my cx few months ago and i never did more than a few stropes when new and its cutting like the first day forever!
I just got the skeletool with damascus blade, very nice pattern but a little pricey to carry around on a daily basis. Love it though
Amazon no longer has the replacement cx blades and neither dose the the Leatherman website. Where can I get replacement blades for the cx?
I have the original Skeletool and it has a plain blade. I'm still considering the upgrade in steel after multiple sharpenings.
unfortunately it seems you can no longer find the 154cm blade on amazon. I just picked up the skeletool because you can still get it at the home depot for only $30. Great bang for your buck.
Thanks is a good value!
I want to replace my 10+ year well worn daily usage wave with the skeletool. Only tool I will really miss from the wave is the can opener. And the biner is sort of pointless I will carry it in a sheath anyway. Wish that biner was a can opener/ belt cutter instead.
You: works to save 1 oz on one side of your body because that means something or something
me: carries 3 pound purse everywhere.
Aaron thanks you had me make the jump to CX
How do you close it? I just purchased one I have it stock on pliers. Thanks for the informative video.
Unpopular opinion:
The Leatherman Skeletool is very overrated. There are simply not enough tools to justify the price tag. For around the same price you can get the Wingman or the Sidekick which both have more tools, at just the expense of 4 ounces more weight. The only true advantage the Skeletool has over these other options is the interchangeable bit driver. However, even this has its flaws, because unlike the Wave, the tool can not be used with the skeletool in the closed position. It covers the bit when it is closed, rather than having a folding bit like the Wave. As far as bang for your buck, the Skeletool just doesn’t cut it.
I 100% agree. It's about $80 and there are so many other MTs with so much more to offer. Sad!
Nice. I'll buy one.
I got the charge+ and it is amazing. But it's a bit thick and heavy on the clip in my pocket. This looks like what I'm after.
I loved the standard skeletool so much I bought the CX and the RX.
Excellent. That may be the basic multi tool I have been looking for.
“Light duty” pliers is an appropriate description. Do not twist them if you can help it. I broke my first one and they replaced it. Pro tip from them: Keep the screwdriver bits before sending your broken one in, you’ll need them as they pop out if you drop the tool on pavement.
Really dig your channel, personally while I like reviews, I LOVE prepping and ESC theory videos as well. Keep it up!
Thanks my friend.
Actually the black on your beige pants stands out more than what the stainless/silver would. Why would black look more cool? Black is a generic cheap look to me. Silver looks more shiny and looks fancier. Stainless silver appliances in a kitchen look better than black. The natural color of the stainless is silver where the black has to be colored and could fade or rub off.
I like a black finish on my knives/multitools so that after time it creates a patina with all the scratches and wear on it. Just my liking tho. I’m an aircraft mechanic and I use the skeleton daily.
Man your screen door is almost as messed up as mine. LOL
well, i love my knives half serrated and the stainless steel look is better as it will not chip and rub off and look ugly in the long run... hence the original one is the best for me. Thanks for the video.
Actually when the Skeletool was first released I bought one and it had a non-serrated blade as a variant even if it was not a CX model. I still own it. I don't think the blade is 154CM steel though.
I no longer see that variant in the leatherman catalogue nowadays.
Have one like you do, I think it's 420hc as the serrated one.
Have to be honest, I wanted to love the Skeletool. But that one sweeping handle meant I couldn't get a good solid grip on it when using the pliers. My hand would literally slide off. Plus, when bearing down on the tool, the lock mechanism would move due to the liner-lock being exposed so much. But I did find another Leatherman tool to replace both a multi-tool and a knife. The Signal's more 90-degree angle carabiner clip helped to hold onto the pliers during the use, and I found the liner-lock was not quite as exposed as on the Skeletool. I could bear down on the signal with no issues. I will say I don't like its shiny clip, nor the price-tag since at $100.oo you don't even get a 154CM blade.
In my country they basic skeletool is 87,99€
Definitely go for the cx just for the straight edge
I am an expat from Philippines and I have a Leatherman bought in Saudi the only trouble is the knife and sheath broke d blade a wornout sheath want to bring it back to its original look it's a '90 model and d tool need advice
I have the wave. Soooo nice.
Great video and comparison. After watching your video I picked up the original model of the skeletool because it was $41 cheaper than the cx. The cx is almost double the price of the original. Leatheman really makes you pay a premium for the "cool" factor. I don't see any reason to pay that much more for an item like this.
Andrew DeJoseph - I have EDC'd the CX since it was new. You're spot on - in general I've never found enough of a quality or usability discrepancy between the lower model and the CX to justify the price for anyone other than an enthusiast. Same goes for the Charge vs Wave. I always recommend people buy the cheaper model. Leatherman's 420 steel on the blades is very good and is easy to sharpen.
Thanks for the video! Helped me choose the right one for me.
I took your advise and upgraded the blade. Thanks!
I’m a super tool 300 man, probably will be till the day I die, however I don’t see any harm in adding this to my edc.
John Parinello Jr. the skeletool is a multitool for who needs just a few tools but in very good shape and quality. If you have a super tool 300 maybe doesn’t make sense to buy a skeletool, but if you need to buy a tool, there are some reasons to buy it instead of a bigger and more complex one. One of all: the compact dimensions, but also the simple rule of “more things it have, more possibilities there are that something broke” i like to keep it simple ;)
serious very helpful review.
is that carabin usable for something ?
I heard you can use them to fix screen doors
I know this videos is an older video but hopefully you got rid of that CFL Lightbulb
I wasn't aware that there were different models of the Skeletoll.
How can you tell one version from the other?
So if you're going on a multi day hike, which Leatherman would be your first choice, considering size, weight, and tools included?
Damn Arron you should fix that screen door!
This might help.
th-cam.com/video/d-TpdbDdmNs/w-d-xo.html
Good voice indeed and passionate speaking
What is the weight difference?
If they would've made either, the bits a normal shape or replaced the knife with a box blade, I'd buy it today.
This was really helpful! Thank you :)
Nice review, brief. Straight to the point. Kudos!
So I'm needin to buy a CX lol In all honestly, I've been wanting to pick a Skeletool CX for aslong as I've been doing EDC stuff. And I've wanted to CX simply because of the 154cm steel. But now coming into the Fall and Winter, being able to not have to carry a multi tool plus blades would be super handy. Less chance of things going missing while out on the motorcycle lol Hope you and the family are doing well :)
Nice and good point about the bike. Life is good brother, still love the S1!
Good video. Appreciate the brevity and focus. I love my Skeletool.
Thanks, really appreciate it.
I have the signal and that's 7.56 Oz the skeletool is 5oz should I get the skeletool for EDC?
So what do you think of the freestyle cx? Basically a skeletool, but just with a blade and pliers, nothing else. A little lighter and quite a bit smaller. I found myself that I almost never use the screwdrivers anyway, so the freestyle is perfect for me as it carries even better
Wartstein - the Freestyle is ok but is not Skeletool quality as it is imported vs being domestic. I bought several Freestyles as gifts and the quality difference is readily apparent, or at least was four years ago.
Is that a tactical screen on your sliding door? Seems like it had a bad day...... love the channel
Haha!
Is the 154 carbon steel harder to sharpen than the 420? I have the original and thinking of upgrading. Thanks for the great videos!
Good Show of what is an alternative way to carry what one needs. Thanks
Thanks for watching.
I'd miss too much if I didn't :)
Hey really like your channel thanks for the review i was in the market for multi tool. So glad i checked out your video. I am getting a Skeletool CX looks awesome and has all the tools i need for daily use. Keep the videos coming you do a awesome job.
Thank you so much, really glad you enjoyed the video and I hope the CX serves you well!
The only thing I don't like about the skeletool is that the pliers don't have springs. If this thing had spring loaded pliers it would be perfect for me.