I have a Victoria that I bought in 1989. Yes I am that old. And it feels like it was bought yesterday. Aside from the aesthetics of course. Unbelievable.
I've carried a Victorinox full sized multi-tool pretty much daily for more than 15 years. I've never had it fail. The locking blades have never let go under very heavy use. The punches, picks, scrapers, blades, pliers, screwdrivers, awls, and levers are all in excellent shape after all these years. Mine also contains a 9 inch, 28 cm scale on either side of the handles, very handy.
Having the nose of the pliers meet before the back has a design intent. Anything round gripped with pliers that have parallel faces when closed will cause the pliers to close on the object with a resultant force vector pointing directly out of the jaws. We have all had something round sort of "squirt" out of the jaws, right? When the pliers that close at the nose grips a round object, the jaws are closer to parallel, minimizing that forward force vector. When working sheet metal, you do want pliers that close along the entire faces of the jaws. Different pliers, different applications. Great review. 👍😁
Kenjiro5775 he obviously hasn’t used pliers very often, the only pliers that will work effectively with a flat face must have a swiveling face like sheet metal pliers.
Owning both Leatherman and Victorinox, I can honestly say that I prefer the Victorinox hands down. Victorinox is the Rolex of the multi-tool market. I absolutely LOVE them!!
The "GAP" in the pliers is on purpouse. when you grab something with the pliers, both sides makes parallel contact. More contact surface. Sorry for my bad english.
I cna understand the logic I compare the mouth of the pliers for when people need to hold something fine but not just at the tip like a wire lets say having them flush is better but again people use these tools for different things for me its no big deal
@@cutlerylover Yes the gap is actually deliberate it allows for increasing pressure on the point of the plier. As you squeeze the handle harder together the plier will flex to close the gap - while increasing the pressure on the point of the jaw. Of it came togethee all the way along the point pressure is reduced by flex along the face of the jaw actually reducing the grip even though you squeeze as hard as you can. Think about it as a reverse scissor effect - maximizes pressure back toward the hand and into the real jaw if that makes any sense. All good needlenose act this way.
I have a bunch of leatherman tools myself but this model of swisstool has been on my belt every day for over 6 years as a maintenance tech and now a wastewater plant operator and it is hands down the best multitool I've ever owned.
when my leatherman PST broke in the late 90's i bought the swisstool that i still use today and i love and abuse it. i still call it "my leatherman" though.
I've had a Swisstool X for years now and it's still so damn stubbornly shiny and new looking even though I've been pounding away at it in the machine shop
I think the gap in the pliers were by design. Although I’ve never tried Victorinox multi tool I have many of there other products ( even both nail clippers) and they are top notch!
The gap in the pliers makes sure the pliers have more grip on the object that is grasped, because whenever the pliers hold something they are slightly opened. The pliers will become parallel to each other when it is holding an object of about 1/8" to 1/4" thickness. When there's no gap in closed position the pliers would diverge always whenever holding an object. Diverging pliers can make the object slip away. In my opinion the gap is a definitive plus for Victorinox.
My Swisstool is more than 10 years old now. It is still in very good condition, although I use it a lot. As you said, the finish one this tool is so much better than on Leathermans. I had a Leatherman in my hands in my local store a few times, but never bought one. I wonder how the Leatherman survives with multitools on which half of the tools come out at the same time, if you only need one! Best regards from Germany.
I own both Leatherman and Victorinox Swisstools. The fit and finish of the Victorinox is just superb, almost too nice! It's so nice, that it's reserved for the 'in the house' jobs and the Leatherman get used for the dirty outdoor/workshop jobs. I would definitely recommend the ratchet bit set to accompany the Swisstool. It's an incredible bit of kit. One thing I would like to see come into the Victorinox line is replaceable wire cutters.
I had medium and full sized original Leatherman multitools, most of them wore out or even broke. Like the last I had that got out of cutting steel barbed wire with a twisted plier. After this I found the Swiss Tools - and I am impressed. I still got my verry first one, only thing, I had to sharpen the chissel some times. The knife blades have been sharpened, too. The plier is exact and tight like at the first day, you could use the plier as a tweezer. I feel like the steel on the Swiss Tool is better than on Leatherman Tools, but I am only able to talk about the first "original" Leatherman model. Then, back in the days, the Leatherman had no locking blades and tools. This was the biggest advantage of the Swiss Tool. All the tools lock on the Swiss Tool. Now I own two of them, one with two knife blades, and one with one blade and scissors. I still have the first one from 1992, the second one was purchased about 2000. The price was the same, through all those years, and still is. It is impressive, that a tool of such high quality is able to hold the price and the built quality for such a long time. I only can say good things about the SwissTools, as a working musician I use them on a daily basis. Highly recommend checking them out! P.S.: They have a live long warranty. I didn't need it until now, but I know from experience from my Victorinox knifes that they don't ask questions, but repair and clean the item and send it back. I had to order two leather sheets over the time, because the beltlatch wore out to the point where the latch was worn through. First time after more than 20 years of daily use. Victorinox sells new leather sheets for small money. Because this one is a disposeable.
Owned a Leatherman Wave, Leatherman Skeletool, still own a Leatherman Charge TTI and a SwissTool X Plus Ratchet. The only Leatherman, which compares well to the Swisstool is probably the Charge TTI. Though I'd prefer the Swisstool heavily, if there was a titanium version. The finishing on the Swisstool is a slight bit better and the tiny ratchet with the ability to use standard bits is a nice touch. The charge TTI may have some advantages for some people, though I personally don't care if I need both hands to deploy the blade. If I could only have one, it would be the Swisstool, but having both I still use the Charge TTI.
I love this tool, carry it everyday since 1.5 years. I use the one with the serrated blade and because it isnt a locking one hand folding blade i can legally carry it in germany, most leathermans have this feature
Thanks for the vid. My Wave of approximately 13 years is MIA, I am able to make due with a Juice S2 for my EDC, cannot say enough positive about that one. When I need something bigger, I have a Leatherman Blast. It works, just not a Wave. Victorinox makes a great damn tool, but I think I am gonna go up to a Surge. Thank you for the informative video
Funny how people in the US associate Switzerland with chocolate, apart from Toblerone, I can't think of any famous Swiss chocolate. Here in Europe we always think of Belgium as the best chocolate country. Switzerland for us is associated with precision engineering, namely watches and clocks, there are even colloquial expressions about something which works perfectly running like a Swiss watch. Switzerland is a country is perceived as a perfectionist, clean and efficient country. If you think about Rolex and SIG Sauer as major Swiss brands you'll relate to the perception of Swisstool as being the best multitools in the world.
What's interesting about the spirit x is that here in nz, the spirit can be found for sale almost $200 cheaper than a Leatherman Charge+ TTi. I own both, the spirit is the everyday edc because of the high quality of construction. So so good. Would happily pay the same price as the charge+ tti for this tool, it's that good
@@kongandbasses8732 I've seen that but I don't want to carry a seperate driver. I prefer to have it integrated into the tool. And the letatherman bits are smaller and lighter than standard bits. Still, both companies make great products. I edc my Victorinox compact all the time.
After a couple of years playing around with leatherman and victorinox tools on everyday carri and home small repairs, both are really good for the intended purpose, But if you have to carry only one: go for the swisstool spirit plus hands down compact strong and comfortable to use for hours
I own both brands. But I have to say that opening and closing all swiss tools, it’s night and day compared to a leatherman. The swisstool is like the rolls royce of multitools, especially the large version
Thanks Jeff. I have to say, the scissors are a pet peeve of mine. All of the scissors on Leathermans I've had have sucked period. The joints get loose and they bend all over the place. Victorinox has them pinned to the mat in terms of quality scissors. I regularly carry a rambler model and I've cut through so many zip ties with those scissors that I never thought I'd get through, but do every time. All of the Leathermans, small or large, don't even come close. If these are as good as the other models, I'm also SOLD!
The scissors on these are good strong scissors, but they are different to the scissors on your rambler and other swiss army knives (which I also love). Operated by a lever rather than a spring, they have more cutting power, but don't open up wide, and aren't as well suited for fine tasks like trimming nails.
Had a chance to buy this from my local pawn shop a few months ago for $65 and I passed...because I'm into Leatherman. Giving myself a big kick in the ass because it was finally sold the last time I went there to grab it! I now need this whole line of tools...thnx
I have the same model coming I just purchased. I am a Letherman guy but I have always liked the quality of my different Swiss Army knives and I am looking forward to trying out the Swiss tool. Great review.
I prefer my Swiss tool for basically all the reasons you said. And while I agree that spring pliers is best, it's also not a common feature on the majority of multi tools from all companies.
Must be generational thing to call a Victorinox Swiss Army Knife a multitool. Well past 60s guys are still getting used to Leatherman calling a folding pliers with a few handle tools a multitool. In our day a multitool was an oscillating power tool which could handle 4 or 5 different functions. Then when Tim Leatherman came out with his tools, being pliers-based defined folding hand tools. Never was any pocket knife called a multitool. Now, the word has come to mean any folding pocket tool set, even if not a butterfly opening pliers-based tool. Just like "Swiss Army Knife," a proprietary company slogan for one of two Swiss cutlery makers (now just one) who were actual contractors of knives for the Swiss Army. My American knife collector friends are downright adamant that only Victorinox or Wenger are Swiss Army Knife makers. Times change. I started with knives 55 years ago. I have a 22 year old Swiss Tool, Leatherman Super Tool, and Leatherman Wave--all still in totally usable condition. Especially the Swiss Tool. I have more recent models, including two Swiss Tool Spirits. In truth I have to rate the Victorinox tools above Leatherman for fit and finish, durability, and materials. Aside from the upgraded blade steel in my Charge. Victorinox ST Spirit is classy and rugged. Many criticize the blade steel, but the reality is in the use. Multitools are not heavy duty, despite claims. For repetitive or daily tasks there are always better tools. I have no blade play, or loose arms, on my four Victorinox multitools. Some Leatherman, yes. And I own about 35 models. Victorinox has been in the multitool game for over 20 years, and is very popular around the world. SOG and Gerber are hit or miss on the arm tools, though SOG pliers heads I like. Even the US government has put the Swiss Army current model on a purchase list, and is an available option for US soldiers. It is identical, except black oxided, and says US on the scales. But same tools and materials. Victorinox makes all kinds of locking models, 111mm and 130mm. Even fixed blades. Their quality control is better than Leatherman. Both have great warranties, but, a working man or s soldier needs no-fail tools, not great customer service. BTW the plier head gap is a design feature, intentional and in no way a flaw. Some Leatherman have this as well. When you grab a bolt or wire or nut or whatever, gap-free pliers offer zero advantage. Actually that gap is a standard feature on many good multitools. Not a design issue in using the tool. Anyway. excuse my long windedness. And thanks for the review! Cheers from the Galilee of Israel.
@@CoreyWBaker Hebrew. My English is a mix of Shakespeare and Macaulay, with little Hemingway and Steinbeck, applied to a base of Hebrew. I do not always understand American English, although Jeff is always clear and well-spoken. Plain English in a good sense. The Scots language and northern England I can understand better than Floatta or Bama, or Sow Ca'olina. Perhaps the millions of videos are exposing us to how we speak. Israel doesn't use English, but most understand. It is a mix of British and American--thus in reality neither! Cheers!
I've used this as my Leatherman Wave replacement for nearing a decade. I got tired of the pinch when I'd use the pliers and as you can see, the Swiss tool has a cutaway to help prevent that. That said, it has seen a ton of use and I am very happy with it. Some caveats, however; the scissors are worthless, ditto the knife. It's a good beater knife because I could never get it to perform, no matter how much work I put into it. The pliers are excellent, and the screwdriver bits are all pretty fair. It is my daily driver and I do recommend it highly, however, pair it with a good knife and use that instead ; )
Hi Jeff, it's nice to see a Spirit in your hands. I have used one almost every day and carry it's bigger brother too. Have some Leatherman tools (squirt, juice S2, charge AL, new surge, skeletool), but honestly, Victorinox makes them better. Stay safe and keep it up.
I’ve owned a Swisstool Spirit for almost 15 years and I love it. The security spring of the metal saw can no longer lock it, however, the rest of the multi tool remains stiff and strong as always.
The Swiss Tool is better in my opinion as well. I've used it a couple of times although I don't own one. Fun fact is that I own two Leathermans, a Blast and a Wave, but if I were to buy a third multitool it would be a Victorinox.
I have both and while both are great tools, I still prefer the Wave. Here's a breakdown for those who are wondering: Spirit X: + Looks sleek when closed + Pliers are very comfortable to hold + Satisfying clicks when opened and closed + Has an awl + and a chisel + Great can opener - File is worse than the Wave - I know it's a tool, but glossy metal is fingerprint magnet - Blade is not one handed (unless you get the MX) - Scissors really suck Now the Wave Plus: + Pliers open wider than the SpiritX + Amazing diamond coated file + Way better scissors + One handed Blades + Serrated blade + Replaceable wire cutters + Glasses/watch screwdrivers + Ruler (very handy) + Pocket clip + Cheaper - Heavier (8.5oz vs 7.4oz), but also shorter in length compared to the SpiritX - Some tools are harder to open and not on the outside
Thanks for the review! I'm waiting for my Swiss tool CS plus in the mail. I have a SAK spartan for basic small things. My Swiss tool will be for bigger things.
Great video .. Very true what you say.. In 1998 my first multi tool was Gerber , ahhhhh well sliding the pliers out ot the handles a few times , one of the E clips came off ( gone ) okay i made contact with Gerber and got new E clip ..The the tool broke in the hinge , okay in the shoe box under my bed .. Couple years later i bought a model that appeared to be stronger build but months into using the tool it too broke... Okay it's Leatherman ( i like everyone else hated the square handle design as it hurts your hand when you use the pliers .. The knife blade i could never get a sharp edge that would stay on it .. The pliers pin was sloopy ahhhhhh okay there is 100 bucks well spent .. Next I bought my Swisstool in 2002 and have never had failure one , still as tight today as the day i bought it ..My Swisstool is a larger model than you have and does not have a slight angle for comfort in the handles , they are straight .. So i love it and 18 years later every item on it works fine just like it should ..
my old wave is still quite nice, but both my 98 and 2022 swisstool x are flawless:) that satisfying click in all of it, the preciseness....love it. And dont take it for a fancy smancy man jewelery tool eather, this thing can take a beating, even moreso the big brother swiss tool ( you are reviewing the spirit).This year victorinox brought out a pocket clip for both models and one hand opening, so only thing left is the replaceable wire cutters and the rustic tool charme (and design, i love the wave, im no hater) greetings from germany
I have had one a Victorinox for nearly 20 years Army issued and recently bought a Leartherman wave. I prefer the Victorinox and it my go too tool every time. No scissors on my version and not bent but straight.
Great review. I agree. Hmm... I’ve used Leathermans and SAKs. Not everyone knows what a Leatherman is, not here in the U.K. Military, yes. Otherwise, Victorinox rules the world. The Victorinox is hands down a better tool. Leatherman is fine, but crude in comparison. There is a misconception that the Leatherman is tougher, more rugged. That’s not so. I’ve broken a Wave and had it replaced (for free - thank you Leatherman). The Victorinox takes more of a beating. My opinion.
When you say "there is a misconception that leatherman is crude because it is tougher and more rugged". These is a myth. I totally agree. Leatherman is more crude simply because have less quality standards in machining and tolerance and fit and finish. Victorinox is more precise, with better standards quality and quality control, but also is tough as leatherman, maybe more. Leatherman is comparable IN QUALITY to victorinox ONLY IN FEW SUPER EXPENSIVE Model, like MUT, charge titanium or g10. And also in these model that costed almost twice than swisstool (almost in Europe), the quality is slightly better on victorinox.
I couldn't agree with you more. I picked up my first Swisstool and ST Spirit 5 years ago. After a short time carrying them, I retired my Leatherman Wave and Skeletool.
Just can’t beat the convenience of the one hand opening outside tools leatherman offer. Can always count on my surge, so dependable and tough. However i can’t argue with the quality of these tools from victorinox, the Swiss tool is exceptional and and the tools included are the best quality of any multi tool I’ve used.
I noticed at 14:25, you can see the pliers aren't really aligned. Look at where the rounded part meets the flat part. I found the same issue on mine (2021). I also checked some other reviews on TH-cam, they are perfectly aligned.
This is the case in all swisstools! It has nothing to do with alignment. They are perfectly aligned, simply what you see at 14.25 is the finish. There is probably a difference in shape in the 2 arms and when they are filed it emerges.
in my job mi partners use them a lot and all of them use leatherman, but is because when they travel to USA is what they buy there because are cheap compared to the price in spain with can go up to 180 euros for a wave, when they try my spirit they convince themselves that is better, steel is better, ergonomy in my opinion is better as well, and some of them that have tried through long periods of time, hold better in time the victorinox, so slowly they all are shifting to victorinox.
Spain =wave 120 euro not 180!! I live in Italy and Spain. Wave+ is 120/130 euro in Italy and Spain on internet. In some coutlery you find crazy price like you say.
Agreed ... I've used both.....the Squirt, Charge ti and the swiss tool for work....the Swiss tool is nicer...bit heavier though. But the Victorinox blades are just so quick and easy to sharpen... The Leathermans rusted in places... I live on the coast in UK. Swiss tool has zero rust. The Swiss tool has the best scissors, saw and can opener by miles. But I think I'd give the edge to leatherman for the screwdriver bits. I'd say Leatherman has slightly better pliers... Love both companies... Great honest review as always 👍 All the best....
Love my Swisstool too, but I do think Leatherman is gaining ground with their new Free Series. The P2 gets the most pocket carry for me most days. Thanks for the excellent review!
Great review. I love my spirit x but recently needed it to turn a faucet sprayer screw on cap and only my wave leatherman wave had to be summoned because the Spirit X could not open wide enough to turn the circular nob. It was a standard sink faucet nozzle screw on facet end piece that screws into the faucet. I was disappointed that my Spriit X could not get the job done. The Spirit is an excellent multi tool I just with the pliers opened a little wider to accommodate faucet and basic shower screws. Another youtube reviewer "The Big Cancer" did an excellent comparison of wave vs spirit and came to the same conclusion on plier width needs for basic functions. Anyway just wanted to pass along my experience with the Spirit pliers otherwise its far superior to any leatherman inside tools. Keep up the good reviews.
I love this tool had one for a few years and use it alot! Definitely one of the best multi tools I carry it in a leather Vic pouch from a typical Vic style tool with a the compass, ceramic block and fire starting gear. Definitely recommended! Not chunky or hard on the hands!
The Free P4 is ok. But a design flaw in the pliers is upsetting a lot of Leatherman loyalists who bought it, despite the high price. Pliers head grows very stiff, and can be barely manageable. Leatherman suggested banging the pivot hard with a ball & peen hammer. Heavy wire cutting jams it up all over again. Tim Leatherman publicizes videos of himself cutting nails, but this can in fact make the Free P4 unusable. Customer service so far has no real fix, or willingness to take back the large numbers of defective tools. We are stuck with a mediocre tool with dysfunctional pliers! The arm tools on one side, a crosshead and a flathead with package opener, are good. The otherside has a mini file, a thin stock awl, anda thin stock flathead-ruler combo. The awl had another flathead for tip, which made it no good as an awl or reamer. Outside big tools are fine. Thank goodness. And the one-hand opening and closing works. Overall, though, a big fail. Outside America, after duty, this is priced at the equivalent of $170 or 180 in local currency. Where was beta testing? What were those engineers smoking? How did Tim Leatherman's QC staff not see the problems? Leatherman cannot make a Free P4 pliers head, yet claim boldly that the P4 is tbe best Leatherman pliers ever? Pshaw.
I have both. Victorinox is more refined, they pay attention to small details. I do like my leatherman wave and surge, but it’s rough in comparison. Victorinox also has lifetime warranty. Around the house, I tend to use my wave most often because it’s the most affordable but the Swiss tool stays in my glove compartment for when I need it.
I’ve had my swisstool since 2015 and it has always been at my side! Works wonders I use it everyday still! Only thing I wish it had was replaceable cutters because my teeth on mine have seen better days! Otherwise it works great!
I have a leatherman sidekick and ive never had a nicer more useful pocket tool, I cannot overstate the quality (cost around 40 pounds). However the fact that all the tools on the swiss tool are accessible from the outside when closed is such big thing. There are tools on my leatherman that I have never used because they are on the inside of the handle and take to long to get to so I forget they exist! I may give one of these a go if the add a spring to the pliers!
It’s my EDC. Before this I was a die hard Leatherman guy. My only gripe with it is it’s scissors. I would have preferred the scissors of the Pioneer X in it if it was an option.
I've been wishing they had the Vic scissors too - they are amazing. However I've been considering the intended function of this Victorinox - slightly more heavy duty worksite jobs like cutting cable ties and things like that. The lever operated scissors are much stronger although annoyingly don't open very wide, and not great for trimming fingernails.
From the prices online, i think the Swiss tools range between the Leatherman and up to the Surge. I will stick with my Leathermans that I already have and i don't see a huge difference that would make me want to replace what i have. Thanks for the look at it Jeff!
I think you are wrong about the gap in the plier. The gap is made especially because if you want to grab something it will use the whole gripping surface (parallel when open a little), but if it is parallel when closed when you will open it will start to have an open angle and if you grab something it will use only the lower grip and not the whole surface. Cheers! Good review!
Agreed. The expensive Leathermans may not be comparable with other full-sized multitools. But, the best all round multitool for less than $100.00 (USD) would have to be a Leatherman product: Blast, Rebar, Wave, Side Kick, etc. Swisstools are too expensive to compare with the mid-cost Leathermans. Working in a warehouse, I will only use a Surge or MUT; Victoronox doesn't make tough enough tools for such heavy-weight work. Great review, as usual. Ty.
I use mine daily multiple times a day for well over 10 years in all trades and auto mechanics. I've actually had to replace my belt pouch 3 times because its warn out. The tool is still in new shape. The saw is great. I believe i'll always choose victorinox over any other multitool. Quality tool.
Interesting feedback. Have you been maintaining it regularly, cleaning/oiling etc? Any looseness to the tools or plier heads? How has the shiny finish held up?
@@dustycups my 7 leatherman all loose with the time or taking play in the pliers pivot with a hundred of wire cutting. My swisstool nothing. The mirror finish is surprisingly more rasistant to scratch than leatherman Matt finish.
I've been carrying the SwissTool X for a few years now after carrying a full size Leatherman multitools. I love the SwissTools. I've had many Leathermans, but I also believe to SwissTools are better.
I have multiple leatherman tools and one victorinox and I always find myself using the victorinox it is just much better on fit and finnish and it seems like the one victorinox always has the tools I need in it where it would take two different leathermans to accomplish the same thing... really like my leathermans but the victorinox is better every day of the week and twice on Sunday ... keep up the great work Jeff 👍💪👊
Glad to see you’re back my friend, and you’re doing well. We appreciate every video you do. Take care of your self dude. Much live and respect. Ps Do a Leatherman OHT review. I’m a HUGE fan. $120 CAD. AS a tradesman it been the most convenient to use.
As a leatherman wave owner, the o lay thing I could see me not liking on this tool is the size of the scissors, the less fine “needle nose” pliers, and the lack of a diamond file which I use a lot.
Yes. I prefer that Spirit than the leatherman. I tested all the leatherman models. But just for me, the victorinox spirit works better. I have the " road tour" model (black handle, silver tools)
I haven’t tried a Victorinox. I have a Leatherman Wave and a Surge. They’ve always done what I’ve needed them to do. I do carry a Victorinox Huntsman that I put the plus scales on so I could have a pen.
I have a Swisstool Spirit S (similar to this model) and a Leatherman Wave. The Spirit is better in every respect except for the file. My Wave actually rusted after I left it in the trunk for a while. By the way, they have a larger plier multitool. I’d consider that a full size, while this one is more of a mid size.
The finish and ergos on the Swiss is better for sure but leatherman's accessory game is superior. The flat bit kit and replacement blades are it for me
Theres a reason for a gap in the plier teeth. When theres something actually in the teeth. It will have more surface area holding it. Think about it. If it was completely flat, closed and you stick a penny in it. The teeth would grip just the inside edge.
I’ve carried leatherman gerber and sog, then I got the swisstool. By far my favorite. I still use them all but my edc is the Swiss tool. And btw, the jaws meeting at the front is by design, it does have a purpose
Hi Jeff, Thanks for the video and review. The victorinox looks clean. I like it. I myself have a Gerber suspension and i'm very happy with it. It has all the good stuff from this video,(tools and multiple blades on the outside for example) plus spring pliers and I personally like the look a lot . The needle nose pliers do not have a long surface where they touch each other, just like your victorinox, but it looks like it is designed liked that. I do not know why. Do you? Can you find out? Maybe you could do a review on the gerber suspension multitool. Compare it to a leatherman and victorinox. Just a suggestion Thanks again for all the great content throughout the years and my condolences for Gus.
you should do a second impressions video when you had some more time with it. in the past 20y i had a few different leathermans, then got a full size swisstool in a trade and wont go back. i lost it a while ago and now i have a spirit, definitely more comfortable for the hand and the pocket. There is a sheath with a clip instead of the beltloop, that made it a much easier edc for me.
I have used both Leatherman and Victorinox multitools. Each one has its downs and ups, yet if I am to choose only one brand to go with - I’ll definitely go with the Leathermans.
Great review on this , I've been on the fence about purchasing one until now , great job on showing everything very detailed. New subscriber after watching this review.
Chris, my two cents, I agree Leatherman, in general, are better for various uses. But I think a consideration is the planned use. For example, I prefer my Swiss Tool as agreat tool in my "hotel stay" overnight bag"...("no need for quick deploy" ), so all those elegant tools, at your desposal...no hurry...whereas, if I'm doing any EDC, belt carry, I want the Leatherman. thoughts ??
I really want to get the Swiss too X. Also I do not support the usage of umbrella statements like calling all knives a buck knife or all multitools a Leatherman I distance myself from that level of ignorance. I keep forgetting I wanna get one because I have prob 8 pairs of reguler pliers that are vintage that I usually go to first. All different sizes and models. Edit the tabs outside of the tool channel are adaptors for other tools you buy separate like a cork screw a awl many different sockets with a HUGE assortment of bits..
Thanks for this. Have both and love it. Like Gerber bit more only because of ability to launch pliers with one hand...fishing... Swiss very well made. Thanks for all your great reviews.
After being a tradesman for 36 years I’ve noticed that American hand tools are usually better, mostly because of how they feel in the hand but they often just work a bit better though I’m not surprised that the Swiss tool has the edge with quality and finish and Swiss quality and precision is very hard to beat. I was expecting you would say that the leatherman was more useable so thanks for an un biased review as I’ve never gotten around to buying a multi tool except for a very early and basic gerber a long time ago. Now I now which is best if it has the best features for me.
I personally use a Stanley branded multi tool that stems off of a pair of pliers. It's nice, but the blade dulls out so quickly. If I'm going outside and using it, I have to sharpen it that day. But apart from that, it's comfortable, ergonomic and looks decent for style points
I just bought my second one of these. The first one goes into my collection, and this I will use. A lot of people with experience with Leatherman tools as well as this tool say that the Leatherman tools seem to catch rust relatively much more easily, especially in areas near the sea or water bodies. So, that's a statement about quality (11:42)
iv had a swisstool spirt x since they came out i also used it 4 years doing maintenance at 2 schools its still as good today as it was when I bought it years ago love it ps I got mine for like 55 bucks back in the day ..I could have gotten the larger swisstool for about 60 wished I had now also lol always wanted a juice s2 now cant find one they quit making them my luck
Hows the warranty? I can attest that the Leatherman Warranty is by far the best in the industry. Almost a 0 questions asked warranty. Looking on their Website Swisstools states "Normal Wear and tear not covered". So what happens when those cutting edges get dull on the pliers? I have sent in my Leatherman for repair under general use/wear and tear and if being honest, some abuse and they warrantied it. That right there made me, and many others customers for life.
Lifetime warranty, effectively a no questions asked policy as well. I recently sent a worn out 30 year old Victorinox Swisschamp off to be repaired - they didn't want to spend the time refurbishing it so gave it back to me along with a free brand new one "as a token of goodwill".
@@dustycups they made me pay to “repair” mine - said the warranty didn’t cover the twisted Phillips bit, and bent corkscrew (from just trying to remove a cork.) So yeah, they may say a lifetime warranty, but once you pay to send your tool in, they charge you to fix what I would think should be covered. It’s definitely not no questions asked.
@@CymbalsOnly Sorry to hear that. I’ve only sent that one Victorinox product back so I don’t have a lot of experience. I’ve sent back multiple brand new Leathermans due to fit and finish problems and each time they sent a new one. I also enquired with Leatherman as to whether I could send in a sentimental old 90’s Supertool for repair (I was willing to pay) and they wouldn’t do it, offering to replace it with a new Supertool instead on the condition they keep the old one. I suppose both brands consider replacement rather than free repair a better option for their business. It was probably naive of me to have previously said it’s a no questions asked policy, they would draw the line somewhere. Since I made that comment two years ago I’ve heard other people complaining of instances where both brands declined to cover the cost of repairs or provide new replacements. Leatherman’s replaceable plier cutting bits are probably a push to reduce their warranty replacements and put the cost on the consumer instead. It seems to me that the generous warranty policy could well be becoming a thing of the past, if too many people abuse it (not at all saying you were).
I don’t currently own either but I’m a big gear advocate and have considered both. What seems to be a dealer breaker for me is the fact that the needle nose pliers don’t come together as well as the leathermans that I have handled. I’m sure this is a great tool though and love my SAKs; I hope they correct the figment of the plier teeth.
They're designed that way - there's a good comment up near the top that discusses how the slight angle on these are better for gripping round objects so it doesn't move out the front. And when they are slightly open, when gripping something small, they are more parallel than some leatherman plier jaws (the Surge has the same design as this Victorinox iirc).
I own both the Swiss tool and Wave. I find the Wave is the better 'tool' by some margin, especially durability. And yet, it is the Swiss Tool that I tend to have with me more often. I have grown to really like for its versatility and usability for when I am not expecting to need 'tools'. Otherwise, I have my toolbox(es) on hand. The Leatherman is probably the better 'tool', but the Swiss Tool, the better all-rounder.
My Leatherman Wingmans spring, broke after 2 years of normal use. The flat head screwdriver, bent and stayed like that, after first use. My Leathermans Wave plier head, broke after 1 year of normal use. Not to mention both rust, faster than they break lol. My Victorinox Spirit X, not only provides more tools, more utility and better quality and ergos, it's also good as new and on the 3d year now. I added the Explorer, to my urban edc system. At work I carry the Swisstoll X and when outdoors, (camping, hiking) I carry the Rucksack, or the Alox Harvester.
Owned a spirit for a very very long time. Best purchase I have ever made. Kicks the crap out of any Leatherman that I have used.
i rather not break a nail trying to open the knife
I suggest you try the charge with a bit kit and driver extender.
@@mikeziter501 I own a Surge and a Wave. I'll consider this next time I am in the market for a new multi-tool.
@Genghis Chuan Are you okay? I own a Surge and a Wave, along with my Spirit. No need to be soo salty that I don't share your opinion. Hilarious.
@@Atomic2998 I don't have thin frail nails, so I have never had this problem nor am I concerned about this.
Huge Victorinox fan here, not surprised with their quality. Truly great tools, regardless the model.
im a strong believer that everyone should own a victorinox at some point in there life
Kevin Morrice agreed
@@kevinmorrice or two, or three, or....................25.........maybe.
@@kevinmorrice Have owned one since I found out they were meant for the Shmidt Ruben rifle. I carry mine everywhere.
I have a Victoria that I bought in 1989. Yes I am that old. And it feels like it was bought yesterday. Aside from the aesthetics of course. Unbelievable.
I've carried a Victorinox full sized multi-tool pretty much daily for more than 15 years. I've never had it fail. The locking blades have never let go under very heavy use. The punches, picks, scrapers, blades, pliers, screwdrivers, awls, and levers are all in excellent shape after all these years. Mine also contains a 9 inch, 28 cm scale on either side of the handles, very handy.
Having the nose of the pliers meet before the back has a design intent. Anything round gripped with pliers that have parallel faces when closed will cause the pliers to close on the object with a resultant force vector pointing directly out of the jaws. We have all had something round sort of "squirt" out of the jaws, right? When the pliers that close at the nose grips a round object, the jaws are closer to parallel, minimizing that forward force vector. When working sheet metal, you do want pliers that close along the entire faces of the jaws. Different pliers, different applications. Great review. 👍😁
Kenjiro5775 he obviously hasn’t used pliers very often, the only pliers that will work effectively with a flat face must have a swiveling face like sheet metal pliers.
Yeah i’m happy about them not meeting. It probably triples the usage of the pliers in fact.
Owning both Leatherman and Victorinox, I can honestly say that I prefer the Victorinox hands down. Victorinox is the Rolex of the multi-tool market. I absolutely LOVE them!!
Wrong! 😒
Leatherman is Rolex.
Victorinox is Patek Philippe. 😎
Tougher for sure. I have given my father leathermans, gerbers, and sogs. He broke all but the victorinox.
The "GAP" in the pliers is on purpouse. when you grab something with the pliers, both sides makes parallel contact. More contact surface. Sorry for my bad english.
I cna understand the logic I compare the mouth of the pliers for when people need to hold something fine but not just at the tip like a wire lets say having them flush is better but again people use these tools for different things for me its no big deal
@@cutlerylover Yes the gap is actually deliberate it allows for increasing pressure on the point of the plier. As you squeeze the handle harder together the plier will flex to close the gap - while increasing the pressure on the point of the jaw. Of it came togethee all the way along the point pressure is reduced by flex along the face of the jaw actually reducing the grip even though you squeeze as hard as you can. Think about it as a reverse scissor effect - maximizes pressure back toward the hand and into the real jaw if that makes any sense. All good needlenose act this way.
My Leathermans are all showing rust. My Spirits are extremely rust proof.
My Leatherman Micra is 20 years old and is still as fresh as when it was new. Then again I clean it annually with WD40 and ear buds.
I have a bunch of leatherman tools myself but this model of swisstool has been on my belt every day for over 6 years as a maintenance tech and now a wastewater plant operator and it is hands down the best multitool I've ever owned.
when my leatherman PST broke in the late 90's i bought the swisstool that i still use today and i love and abuse it. i still call it "my leatherman" though.
I've had a Swisstool X for years now and it's still so damn stubbornly shiny and new looking even though I've been pounding away at it in the machine shop
I think the gap in the pliers were by design. Although I’ve never tried Victorinox multi tool I have many of there other products ( even both nail clippers) and they are top notch!
The gap in the pliers makes sure the pliers have more grip on the object that is grasped, because whenever the pliers hold something they are slightly opened. The pliers will become parallel to each other when it is holding an object of about 1/8" to 1/4" thickness. When there's no gap in closed position the pliers would diverge always whenever holding an object. Diverging pliers can make the object slip away. In my opinion the gap is a definitive plus for Victorinox.
My Swisstool is more than 10 years old now. It is still in very good condition, although I use it a lot. As you said, the finish one this tool is so much better than on Leathermans. I had a Leatherman in my hands in my local store a few times, but never bought one. I wonder how the Leatherman survives with multitools on which half of the tools come out at the same time, if you only need one! Best regards from Germany.
I own both Leatherman and Victorinox Swisstools. The fit and finish of the Victorinox is just superb, almost too nice! It's so nice, that it's reserved for the 'in the house' jobs and the Leatherman get used for the dirty outdoor/workshop jobs.
I would definitely recommend the ratchet bit set to accompany the Swisstool. It's an incredible bit of kit.
One thing I would like to see come into the Victorinox line is replaceable wire cutters.
I like this one, but my favorite multi-tool is the leatherman wave+
I had medium and full sized original Leatherman multitools, most of them wore out or even broke. Like the last I had that got out of cutting steel barbed wire with a twisted plier.
After this I found the Swiss Tools - and I am impressed. I still got my verry first one, only thing, I had to sharpen the chissel some times. The knife blades have been sharpened, too. The plier is exact and tight like at the first day, you could use the plier as a tweezer.
I feel like the steel on the Swiss Tool is better than on Leatherman Tools, but I am only able to talk about the first "original" Leatherman model.
Then, back in the days, the Leatherman had no locking blades and tools. This was the biggest advantage of the Swiss Tool. All the tools lock on the Swiss Tool.
Now I own two of them, one with two knife blades, and one with one blade and scissors. I still have the first one from 1992, the second one was purchased about 2000. The price was the same, through all those years, and still is. It is impressive, that a tool of such high quality is able to hold the price and the built quality for such a long time.
I only can say good things about the SwissTools, as a working musician I use them on a daily basis. Highly recommend checking them out!
P.S.: They have a live long warranty. I didn't need it until now, but I know from experience from my Victorinox knifes that they don't ask questions, but repair and clean the item and send it back.
I had to order two leather sheets over the time, because the beltlatch wore out to the point where the latch was worn through. First time after more than 20 years of daily use. Victorinox sells new leather sheets for small money. Because this one is a disposeable.
Owned a Leatherman Wave, Leatherman Skeletool, still own a Leatherman Charge TTI and a SwissTool X Plus Ratchet.
The only Leatherman, which compares well to the Swisstool is probably the Charge TTI. Though I'd prefer the Swisstool heavily, if there was a titanium version.
The finishing on the Swisstool is a slight bit better and the tiny ratchet with the ability to use standard bits is a nice touch. The charge TTI may have some advantages for some people, though I personally don't care if I need both hands to deploy the blade. If I could only have one, it would be the Swisstool, but having both I still use the Charge TTI.
I have two swiss army multitools and they work awesome. Definitely should get one if you like the swiss army knife,your love this too.
I love this tool, carry it everyday since 1.5 years. I use the one with the serrated blade and because it isnt a locking one hand folding blade i can legally carry it in germany, most leathermans have this feature
Thanks for the vid. My Wave of approximately 13 years is MIA, I am able to make due with a Juice S2 for my EDC, cannot say enough positive about that one. When I need something bigger, I have a Leatherman Blast. It works, just not a Wave. Victorinox makes a great damn tool, but I think I am gonna go up to a Surge.
Thank you for the informative video
It is a nice tool, but I'll keep my Leatherman Charge Ti thank you. The Swiss do make some nice product though. Good chocolate too!
But I don't like Lindt in my multitools! Except maybe orange-milk chocolate.
@@davidsiegel9847 ha ha ha
Funny how people in the US associate Switzerland with chocolate, apart from Toblerone, I can't think of any famous Swiss chocolate. Here in Europe we always think of Belgium as the best chocolate country. Switzerland for us is associated with precision engineering, namely watches and clocks, there are even colloquial expressions about something which works perfectly running like a Swiss watch. Switzerland is a country is perceived as a perfectionist, clean and efficient country. If you think about Rolex and SIG Sauer as major Swiss brands you'll relate to the perception of Swisstool as being the best multitools in the world.
@@simonh6371 And cheese! 👌😄
What's interesting about the spirit x is that here in nz, the spirit can be found for sale almost $200 cheaper than a Leatherman Charge+ TTi. I own both, the spirit is the everyday edc because of the high quality of construction. So so good. Would happily pay the same price as the charge+ tti for this tool, it's that good
Personally I love the Wave +. I like Victorinox but I would miss the replaceable bits from the Wave. The leatherman bit kit is essential for me.
My Swiss Tools came both with a set of bits and a 90° bit driver. Like and use it a lot.
@@kongandbasses8732 I've seen that but I don't want to carry a seperate driver. I prefer to have it integrated into the tool. And the letatherman bits are smaller and lighter than standard bits.
Still, both companies make great products. I edc my Victorinox compact all the time.
After a couple of years playing around with leatherman and victorinox tools on everyday carri and home small repairs, both are really good for the intended purpose, But if you have to carry only one: go for the swisstool spirit plus hands down compact strong and comfortable to use for hours
I own both brands. But I have to say that opening and closing all swiss tools, it’s night and day compared to a leatherman. The swisstool is like the rolls royce of multitools, especially the large version
👏👏👏👏👏
Thanks Jeff. I have to say, the scissors are a pet peeve of mine. All of the scissors on Leathermans I've had have sucked period. The joints get loose and they bend all over the place. Victorinox has them pinned to the mat in terms of quality scissors. I regularly carry a rambler model and I've cut through so many zip ties with those scissors that I never thought I'd get through, but do every time. All of the Leathermans, small or large, don't even come close. If these are as good as the other models, I'm also SOLD!
The scissors on these are good strong scissors, but they are different to the scissors on your rambler and other swiss army knives (which I also love). Operated by a lever rather than a spring, they have more cutting power, but don't open up wide, and aren't as well suited for fine tasks like trimming nails.
Had a chance to buy this from my local pawn shop a few months ago for $65 and I passed...because I'm into Leatherman.
Giving myself a big kick in the ass because it was finally sold the last time I went there to grab it!
I now need this whole line of tools...thnx
I have the same model coming I just purchased. I am a Letherman guy but I have always liked the quality of my different Swiss Army knives and I am looking forward to trying out the Swiss tool. Great review.
I prefer my Swiss tool for basically all the reasons you said. And while I agree that spring pliers is best, it's also not a common feature on the majority of multi tools from all companies.
Must be generational thing to call a Victorinox Swiss Army Knife a multitool. Well past 60s guys are still getting used to Leatherman calling a folding pliers with a few handle tools a multitool.
In our day a multitool was an oscillating power tool which could handle 4 or 5 different functions. Then when Tim Leatherman came out with his tools, being pliers-based defined folding hand tools. Never was any pocket knife called a multitool.
Now, the word has come to mean any folding pocket tool set, even if not a butterfly opening pliers-based tool. Just like "Swiss Army Knife," a proprietary company slogan for one of two Swiss cutlery makers (now just one) who were actual contractors of knives for the Swiss Army. My American knife collector friends are downright adamant that only Victorinox or Wenger are Swiss Army Knife makers.
Times change. I started with knives 55 years ago. I have a 22 year old Swiss Tool, Leatherman Super Tool, and Leatherman Wave--all still in totally usable condition. Especially the Swiss Tool. I have more recent models, including two Swiss Tool Spirits.
In truth I have to rate the Victorinox tools above Leatherman for fit and finish, durability, and materials. Aside from the upgraded blade steel in my Charge.
Victorinox ST Spirit is classy and rugged. Many criticize the blade steel, but the reality is in the use. Multitools are not heavy duty, despite claims. For repetitive or daily tasks there are always better tools.
I have no blade play, or loose arms, on my four Victorinox multitools. Some Leatherman, yes. And I own about 35 models.
Victorinox has been in the multitool game for over 20 years, and is very popular around the world. SOG and Gerber are hit or miss on the arm tools, though SOG pliers heads I like.
Even the US government has put the Swiss Army current model on a purchase list, and is an available option for US soldiers. It is identical, except black oxided, and says US on the scales. But same tools and materials.
Victorinox makes all kinds of locking models, 111mm and 130mm. Even fixed blades. Their quality control is better than Leatherman. Both have great warranties, but, a working man or s soldier needs no-fail tools, not great customer service.
BTW the plier head gap is a design feature, intentional and in no way a flaw. Some Leatherman have this as well. When you grab a bolt or wire or nut or whatever, gap-free pliers offer zero advantage. Actually that gap is a standard feature on many good multitools. Not a design issue in using the tool.
Anyway. excuse my long windedness. And thanks for the review!
Cheers from the Galilee of Israel.
Youre not wrong, I'm in the same boat as you are. Could it be a UK colloquialism? Judging by your use of language i assume english?
@@CoreyWBaker Hebrew. My English is a mix of Shakespeare and Macaulay, with little Hemingway and Steinbeck, applied to a base of Hebrew. I do not always understand American English, although Jeff is always clear and well-spoken. Plain English in a good sense. The Scots language and northern England I can understand better than Floatta or Bama, or Sow Ca'olina. Perhaps the millions of videos are exposing us to how we speak. Israel doesn't use English, but most understand. It is a mix of British and American--thus in reality neither!
Cheers!
I've used this as my Leatherman Wave replacement for nearing a decade. I got tired of the pinch when I'd use the pliers and as you can see, the Swiss tool has a cutaway to help prevent that. That said, it has seen a ton of use and I am very happy with it. Some caveats, however; the scissors are worthless, ditto the knife. It's a good beater knife because I could never get it to perform, no matter how much work I put into it. The pliers are excellent, and the screwdriver bits are all pretty fair. It is my daily driver and I do recommend it highly, however, pair it with a good knife and use that instead ; )
Hi Jeff, it's nice to see a Spirit in your hands. I have used one almost every day and carry it's bigger brother too. Have some Leatherman tools (squirt, juice S2, charge AL, new surge, skeletool),
but honestly, Victorinox makes them better. Stay safe and keep it up.
Have had it for 2 years, beautifully made, very reliable. Super quality multi tool. It's a keeper !
I’ve owned a Swisstool Spirit for almost 15 years and I love it. The security spring of the metal saw can no longer lock it, however, the rest of the multi tool remains stiff and strong as always.
You can send it to the Victorinox Service. They will fix it on guarantee. If you live in europe it takes about two weeks and you get it back like new.
Glad to see you got on the Swisstool bandwagon.
Love this tool so much, been using it more than 15yrs... still good.
Absolutely love mine, I own a few leathermans and still use them, but the spirit is my go to tool.
The Swiss Tool is better in my opinion as well. I've used it a couple of times although I don't own one. Fun fact is that I own two Leathermans, a Blast and a Wave, but if I were to buy a third multitool it would be a Victorinox.
I have both and while both are great tools, I still prefer the Wave. Here's a breakdown for those who are wondering:
Spirit X:
+ Looks sleek when closed
+ Pliers are very comfortable to hold
+ Satisfying clicks when opened and closed
+ Has an awl
+ and a chisel
+ Great can opener
- File is worse than the Wave
- I know it's a tool, but glossy metal is fingerprint magnet
- Blade is not one handed (unless you get the MX)
- Scissors really suck
Now the Wave Plus:
+ Pliers open wider than the SpiritX
+ Amazing diamond coated file
+ Way better scissors
+ One handed Blades
+ Serrated blade
+ Replaceable wire cutters
+ Glasses/watch screwdrivers
+ Ruler (very handy)
+ Pocket clip
+ Cheaper
- Heavier (8.5oz vs 7.4oz), but also shorter in length compared to the SpiritX
- Some tools are harder to open and not on the outside
Thanks for the review! I'm waiting for my Swiss tool CS plus in the mail. I have a SAK spartan for basic small things. My Swiss tool will be for bigger things.
Great video .. Very true what you say.. In 1998 my first multi tool was Gerber , ahhhhh well sliding the pliers out ot the handles a few times , one of the E clips came off ( gone ) okay i made contact with Gerber and got new E clip ..The the tool broke in the hinge , okay in the shoe box under my bed .. Couple years later i bought a model that appeared to be stronger build but months into using the tool it too broke... Okay it's Leatherman ( i like everyone else hated the square handle design as it hurts your hand when you use the pliers .. The knife blade i could never get a sharp edge that would stay on it .. The pliers pin was sloopy ahhhhhh okay there is 100 bucks well spent .. Next I bought my Swisstool in 2002 and have never had failure one , still as tight today as the day i bought it ..My Swisstool is a larger model than you have and does not have a slight angle for comfort in the handles , they are straight .. So i love it and 18 years later every item on it works fine just like it should ..
my old wave is still quite nice, but both my 98 and 2022 swisstool x are flawless:) that satisfying click in all of it, the preciseness....love it. And dont take it for a fancy smancy man jewelery tool eather, this thing can take a beating, even moreso the big brother swiss tool ( you are reviewing the spirit).This year victorinox brought out a pocket clip for both models and one hand opening, so only thing left is the replaceable wire cutters and the rustic tool charme (and design, i love the wave, im no hater) greetings from germany
I have had one a Victorinox for nearly 20 years Army issued and recently bought a Leartherman wave. I prefer the Victorinox and it my go too tool every time. No scissors on my version and not bent but straight.
Great review. I agree. Hmm... I’ve used Leathermans and SAKs. Not everyone knows what a Leatherman is, not here in the U.K. Military, yes. Otherwise, Victorinox rules the world. The Victorinox is hands down a better tool. Leatherman is fine, but crude in comparison. There is a misconception that the Leatherman is tougher, more rugged. That’s not so. I’ve broken a Wave and had it replaced (for free - thank you Leatherman). The Victorinox takes more of a beating. My opinion.
When you say "there is a misconception that leatherman is crude because it is tougher and more rugged". These is a myth.
I totally agree.
Leatherman is more crude simply because have less quality standards in machining and tolerance and fit and finish.
Victorinox is more precise, with better standards quality and quality control, but also is tough as leatherman, maybe more.
Leatherman is comparable IN QUALITY to victorinox ONLY IN FEW SUPER EXPENSIVE Model, like MUT, charge titanium or g10.
And also in these model that costed almost twice than swisstool (almost in Europe), the quality is slightly better on victorinox.
I couldn't agree with you more. I picked up my first Swisstool and ST Spirit 5 years ago. After a short time carrying them, I retired my Leatherman Wave and Skeletool.
Thanks man, I was just checking out my options the other day on multitools and this one had caught my eye.
Just can’t beat the convenience of the one hand opening outside tools leatherman offer. Can always count on my surge, so dependable and tough. However i can’t argue with the quality of these tools from victorinox, the Swiss tool is exceptional and and the tools included are the best quality of any multi tool I’ve used.
I love victorinox products. Bought a leatherman skeletool on a whim a couple of years ago. Owned it for two months
I noticed at 14:25, you can see the pliers aren't really aligned. Look at where the rounded part meets the flat part. I found the same issue on mine (2021). I also checked some other reviews on TH-cam, they are perfectly aligned.
This is the case in all swisstools!
It has nothing to do with alignment.
They are perfectly aligned, simply what you see at 14.25 is the finish.
There is probably a difference in shape in the 2 arms and when they are filed it emerges.
in my job mi partners use them a lot and all of them use leatherman, but is because when they travel to USA is what they buy there because are cheap compared to the price in spain with can go up to 180 euros for a wave, when they try my spirit they convince themselves that is better, steel is better, ergonomy in my opinion is better as well, and some of them that have tried through long periods of time, hold better in time the victorinox, so slowly they all are shifting to victorinox.
Spain =wave 120 euro not 180!!
I live in Italy and Spain.
Wave+ is 120/130 euro in Italy and Spain on internet.
In some coutlery you find crazy price like you say.
@@fc436 That's why i said up to 180€, from 120 euro the basic model, up to 180 teh wave plus with 2 sets of bits.
Agreed ... I've used both.....the Squirt, Charge ti and the swiss tool for work....the Swiss tool is nicer...bit heavier though.
But the Victorinox blades are just so quick and easy to sharpen...
The Leathermans rusted in places... I live on the coast in UK.
Swiss tool has zero rust.
The Swiss tool has the best scissors, saw and can opener by miles.
But I think I'd give the edge to leatherman for the screwdriver bits.
I'd say Leatherman has slightly better pliers...
Love both companies...
Great honest review as always 👍 All the best....
The swisstool reviewed here is lighter than the weatherman charge. The older swisstool is a bit bigger.
Love my Swisstool too, but I do think Leatherman is gaining ground with their new Free Series. The P2 gets the most pocket carry for me most days. Thanks for the excellent review!
Great review. I love my spirit x but recently needed it to turn a faucet sprayer screw on cap and only my wave leatherman wave had to be summoned because the Spirit X could not open wide enough to turn the circular nob. It was a standard sink faucet nozzle screw on facet end piece that screws into the faucet. I was disappointed that my Spriit X could not get the job done. The Spirit is an excellent multi tool I just with the pliers opened a little wider to accommodate faucet and basic shower screws. Another youtube reviewer "The Big Cancer" did an excellent comparison of wave vs spirit and came to the same conclusion on plier width needs for basic functions. Anyway just wanted to pass along my experience with the Spirit pliers otherwise its far superior to any leatherman inside tools.
Keep up the good reviews.
Good point! I experienced the exact same thing last week.
I love this tool had one for a few years and use it alot! Definitely one of the best multi tools I carry it in a leather Vic pouch from a typical Vic style tool with a the compass, ceramic block and fire starting gear. Definitely recommended! Not chunky or hard on the hands!
The new Leatherman Free has the tools on the outside now and they’re magnetized. I’ve always wanted a Victorinox multitool.
I do plan to try the other free models when I can :)
The Free P4 is ok. But a design flaw in the pliers is upsetting a lot of Leatherman loyalists who bought it, despite the high price. Pliers head grows very stiff, and can be barely manageable. Leatherman suggested banging the pivot hard with a ball & peen hammer. Heavy wire cutting jams it up all over again.
Tim Leatherman publicizes videos of himself cutting nails, but this can in fact make the Free P4 unusable.
Customer service so far has no real fix, or willingness to take back the large numbers of defective tools.
We are stuck with a mediocre tool with dysfunctional pliers!
The arm tools on one side, a crosshead and a flathead with package opener, are good. The otherside has a mini file, a thin stock awl, anda thin stock flathead-ruler combo. The awl had another flathead for tip, which made it no good as an awl or reamer.
Outside big tools are fine. Thank goodness. And the one-hand opening and closing works. Overall, though, a big fail. Outside America, after duty, this is priced at the equivalent of $170 or 180 in local currency.
Where was beta testing? What were those engineers smoking? How did Tim Leatherman's QC staff not see the problems?
Leatherman cannot make a Free P4 pliers head, yet claim boldly that the P4 is tbe best Leatherman pliers ever?
Pshaw.
I have both. Victorinox is more refined, they pay attention to small details. I do like my leatherman wave and surge, but it’s rough in comparison. Victorinox also has lifetime warranty. Around the house, I tend to use my wave most often because it’s the most affordable but the Swiss tool stays in my glove compartment for when I need it.
I’ve had my swisstool since 2015 and it has always been at my side! Works wonders I use it everyday still! Only thing I wish it had was replaceable cutters because my teeth on mine have seen better days! Otherwise it works great!
Agreed!
Send it back under there life time warranty mate. I did and when it came back I thought it was a new one.... might have been as it was mint
@@chrisclark4640 oh great idea! I’ll try that
I have a leatherman sidekick and ive never had a nicer more useful pocket tool, I cannot overstate the quality (cost around 40 pounds). However the fact that all the tools on the swiss tool are accessible from the outside when closed is such big thing. There are tools on my leatherman that I have never used because they are on the inside of the handle and take to long to get to so I forget they exist! I may give one of these a go if the add a spring to the pliers!
Simple answer... yes.
I like my charge tti but the swisstool plus is way superior.
It’s my EDC. Before this I was a die hard Leatherman guy. My only gripe with it is it’s scissors. I would have preferred the scissors of the Pioneer X in it if it was an option.
I've been wishing they had the Vic scissors too - they are amazing. However I've been considering the intended function of this Victorinox - slightly more heavy duty worksite jobs like cutting cable ties and things like that. The lever operated scissors are much stronger although annoyingly don't open very wide, and not great for trimming fingernails.
From the prices online, i think the Swiss tools range between the Leatherman and up to the Surge. I will stick with my Leathermans that I already have and i don't see a huge difference that would make me want to replace what i have. Thanks for the look at it Jeff!
I think you are wrong about the gap in the plier. The gap is made especially because if you want to grab something it will use the whole gripping surface (parallel when open a little), but if it is parallel when closed when you will open it will start to have an open angle and if you grab something it will use only the lower grip and not the whole surface.
Cheers! Good review!
Agreed. The expensive Leathermans may not be comparable with other full-sized multitools. But, the best all round multitool for less than $100.00 (USD) would have to be a Leatherman product: Blast, Rebar, Wave, Side Kick, etc. Swisstools are too expensive to compare with the mid-cost Leathermans. Working in a warehouse, I will only use a Surge or MUT; Victoronox doesn't make tough enough tools for such heavy-weight work. Great review, as usual. Ty.
This side of the pond, we can get Swisstools for less than $100 lol
I use mine daily multiple times a day for well over 10 years in all trades and auto mechanics. I've actually had to replace my belt pouch 3 times because its warn out. The tool is still in new shape. The saw is great. I believe i'll always choose victorinox over any other multitool. Quality tool.
Interesting feedback. Have you been maintaining it regularly, cleaning/oiling etc? Any looseness to the tools or plier heads? How has the shiny finish held up?
@@dustycups my 7 leatherman all loose with the time or taking play in the pliers pivot with a hundred of wire cutting.
My swisstool nothing. The mirror finish is surprisingly more rasistant to scratch than leatherman Matt finish.
I've been carrying the SwissTool X for a few years now after carrying a full size Leatherman multitools. I love the SwissTools. I've had many Leathermans, but I also believe to SwissTools are better.
I own the Swisstool Spirit and the Leatherman Surge, my preference goes to Victorinox.
I have multiple leatherman tools and one victorinox and I always find myself using the victorinox it is just much better on fit and finnish and it seems like the one victorinox always has the tools I need in it where it would take two different leathermans to accomplish the same thing... really like my leathermans but the victorinox is better every day of the week and twice on Sunday ... keep up the great work Jeff 👍💪👊
Glad to see you’re back my friend, and you’re doing well. We appreciate every video you do. Take care of your self dude. Much live and respect. Ps Do a Leatherman OHT review. I’m a HUGE fan. $120 CAD. AS a tradesman it been the most convenient to use.
As a leatherman wave owner, the o lay thing I could see me not liking on this tool is the size of the scissors, the less fine “needle nose” pliers, and the lack of a diamond file which I use a lot.
Yes. I prefer that Spirit than the leatherman. I tested all the leatherman models. But just for me, the victorinox spirit works better. I have the " road tour" model (black handle, silver tools)
You mean. ‘I don’t have any leathermans, Iv only a victorinox spirit and love it’ lol
I haven’t tried a Victorinox. I have a Leatherman Wave and a Surge. They’ve always done what I’ve needed them to do. I do carry a Victorinox Huntsman that I put the plus scales on so I could have a pen.
I love my Victorinox MultiTool. I also love my SOG PowerLock. But the Victorinox is my favorite and go-to.
The fit and finish of the swiss is way better but when you look at the versatility of the leatherman surge I'd buy both.
I have a Swisstool Spirit S (similar to this model) and a Leatherman Wave. The Spirit is better in every respect except for the file. My Wave actually rusted after I left it in the trunk for a while.
By the way, they have a larger plier multitool. I’d consider that a full size, while this one is more of a mid size.
The finish and ergos on the Swiss is better for sure but leatherman's accessory game is superior. The flat bit kit and replacement blades are it for me
Victorinox quality and design no doubt wins over Leatherman every time.
Theres a reason for a gap in the plier teeth. When theres something actually in the teeth. It will have more surface area holding it. Think about it. If it was completely flat, closed and you stick a penny in it. The teeth would grip just the inside edge.
It will have a flat grip when the pliers are in use.
I’ve carried leatherman gerber and sog, then I got the swisstool. By far my favorite. I still use them all but my edc is the Swiss tool. And btw, the jaws meeting at the front is by design, it does have a purpose
Hi Jeff,
Thanks for the video and review. The victorinox looks clean. I like it. I myself have a Gerber suspension and i'm very happy with it. It has all the good stuff from this video,(tools and multiple blades on the outside for example) plus spring pliers and I personally like the look a lot . The needle nose pliers do not have a long surface where they touch each other, just like your victorinox, but it looks like it is designed liked that. I do not know why. Do you? Can you find out? Maybe you could do a review on the gerber suspension multitool. Compare it to a leatherman and victorinox. Just a suggestion
Thanks again for all the great content throughout the years and my condolences for Gus.
you should do a second impressions video when you had some more time with it.
in the past 20y i had a few different leathermans, then got a full size swisstool in a trade and wont go back. i lost it a while ago and now i have a spirit, definitely more comfortable for the hand and the pocket.
There is a sheath with a clip instead of the beltloop, that made it a much easier edc for me.
I have used both Leatherman and Victorinox multitools. Each one has its downs and ups, yet if I am to choose only one brand to go with - I’ll definitely go with the Leathermans.
Great review on this , I've been on the fence about purchasing one until now , great job on showing everything very detailed.
New subscriber after watching this review.
Chris, my two cents, I agree Leatherman, in general, are better for various uses. But I think a consideration is the planned use. For example, I prefer my Swiss Tool as agreat tool in my "hotel stay" overnight bag"...("no need for quick deploy" ), so all those elegant tools, at your desposal...no hurry...whereas, if I'm doing any EDC, belt carry, I want the Leatherman. thoughts ??
I really want to get the Swiss too X. Also I do not support the usage of umbrella statements like calling all knives a buck knife or all multitools a Leatherman I distance myself from that level of ignorance. I keep forgetting I wanna get one because I have prob 8 pairs of reguler pliers that are vintage that I usually go to first. All different sizes and models. Edit the tabs outside of the tool channel are adaptors for other tools you buy separate like a cork screw a awl many different sockets with a HUGE assortment of bits..
or calling all tissues kleenex, i also hate when a single brand becomes the whole product
@@kevinmorrice yeah brother people don't listen but it's a veiw of a larger problem that society is getting dumber by the second
I currently own and use a Gerber Centerdrive. I love it and would recommend getting one for review. $79 at Walmart last I checked.
The gap between the teeth on the plier is intentional. The gap is beneficial in some instances
Thanks for this. Have both and love it. Like Gerber bit more only because of ability to launch pliers with one hand...fishing... Swiss very well made. Thanks for all your great reviews.
Looks very solid and capable for EDC.
I ordered the swisstool x it going to be here on Thursday also sorry for your lost
After being a tradesman for 36 years I’ve noticed that American hand tools are usually better, mostly because of how they feel in the hand but they often just work a bit better though I’m not surprised that the Swiss tool has the edge with quality and finish and Swiss quality and precision is very hard to beat. I was expecting you would say that the leatherman was more useable so thanks for an un biased review as I’ve never gotten around to buying a multi tool except for a very early and basic gerber a long time ago. Now I now which is best if it has the best features for me.
I personally use a Stanley branded multi tool that stems off of a pair of pliers. It's nice, but the blade dulls out so quickly. If I'm going outside and using it, I have to sharpen it that day. But apart from that, it's comfortable, ergonomic and looks decent for style points
Pretty big fan of the Victorinox tools myself. Hope you are doing well.
I just bought my second one of these. The first one goes into my collection, and this I will use.
A lot of people with experience with Leatherman tools as well as this tool say that the Leatherman tools seem to catch rust relatively much more easily, especially in areas near the sea or water bodies. So, that's a statement about quality (11:42)
@@UnstoppableTramp Better soft than rusty lol
iv had a swisstool spirt x since they came out i also used it 4 years doing maintenance at 2 schools its still as good today as it was when I bought it years ago love it ps I got mine for like 55 bucks back in the day ..I could have gotten the larger swisstool for about 60 wished I had now also lol always wanted a juice s2 now cant find one they quit making them my luck
Hows the warranty? I can attest that the Leatherman Warranty is by far the best in the industry. Almost a 0 questions asked warranty. Looking on their Website Swisstools states "Normal Wear and tear not covered". So what happens when those cutting edges get dull on the pliers? I have sent in my Leatherman for repair under general use/wear and tear and if being honest, some abuse and they warrantied it. That right there made me, and many others customers for life.
Lifetime warranty, effectively a no questions asked policy as well. I recently sent a worn out 30 year old Victorinox Swisschamp off to be repaired - they didn't want to spend the time refurbishing it so gave it back to me along with a free brand new one "as a token of goodwill".
@@dustycups they made me pay to “repair” mine - said the warranty didn’t cover the twisted Phillips bit, and bent corkscrew (from just trying to remove a cork.) So yeah, they may say a lifetime warranty, but once you pay to send your tool in, they charge you to fix what I would think should be covered. It’s definitely not no questions asked.
@@CymbalsOnly Sorry to hear that. I’ve only sent that one Victorinox product back so I don’t have a lot of experience.
I’ve sent back multiple brand new Leathermans due to fit and finish problems and each time they sent a new one. I also enquired with Leatherman as to whether I could send in a sentimental old 90’s Supertool for repair (I was willing to pay) and they wouldn’t do it, offering to replace it with a new Supertool instead on the condition they keep the old one. I suppose both brands consider replacement rather than free repair a better option for their business.
It was probably naive of me to have previously said it’s a no questions asked policy, they would draw the line somewhere.
Since I made that comment two years ago I’ve heard other people complaining of instances where both brands declined to cover the cost of repairs or provide new replacements.
Leatherman’s replaceable plier cutting bits are probably a push to reduce their warranty replacements and put the cost on the consumer instead.
It seems to me that the generous warranty policy could well be becoming a thing of the past, if too many people abuse it (not at all saying you were).
I don’t currently own either but I’m a big gear advocate and have considered both. What seems to be a dealer breaker for me is the fact that the needle nose pliers don’t come together as well as the leathermans that I have handled. I’m sure this is a great tool though and love my SAKs; I hope they correct the figment of the plier teeth.
They're designed that way - there's a good comment up near the top that discusses how the slight angle on these are better for gripping round objects so it doesn't move out the front. And when they are slightly open, when gripping something small, they are more parallel than some leatherman plier jaws (the Surge has the same design as this Victorinox iirc).
I own both the Swiss tool and Wave.
I find the Wave is the better 'tool' by some margin, especially durability.
And yet, it is the Swiss Tool that I tend to have with me more often. I have grown to really like for its versatility and usability for when I am not expecting to need 'tools'. Otherwise, I have my toolbox(es) on hand. The Leatherman is probably the better 'tool', but the Swiss Tool, the better all-rounder.
My Leatherman Wingmans spring, broke after 2 years of normal use. The flat head screwdriver, bent and stayed like that, after first use. My Leathermans Wave plier head, broke after 1 year of normal use. Not to mention both rust, faster than they break lol. My Victorinox Spirit X, not only provides more tools, more utility and better quality and ergos, it's also good as new and on the 3d year now. I added the Explorer, to my urban edc system. At work I carry the Swisstoll X and when outdoors, (camping, hiking) I carry the Rucksack, or the Alox Harvester.
Recently picked up a spirit , think i"ll just sell my rebar now :)
Are the tools tough to deploy with your nails? I really struggle to deploy most of the tools, it really hurts.