The Fascinating Alternative To Carrying Multitools
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 17 ม.ค. 2022
- A quick video looking at the thinking behind carrying a Leatherman compared to separate items. Is the price worth paying for the convenience?
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We look at the Knipex Cobra XS and a bit kit from Victorinox as well as a pocket knife from Victorinox too. There are some interesting surprises when we add up the prices and weights!
Watch next:
Convergence vs. Counterparts Episode 2: • Shocking Truth About T...
Best pocket layout for EDC • Taking Pocket Carry Fa...
Designing a Pockets-Only EDC System • Designing A Pockets-On...
Check out this brilliant video from @JonGadget where he also explores the thinking behind Leatherman versus a Knipex-based kit.
• My 2022 EDC Travel Ess...
Also this one from @maxlvledc
• 🔧 EDC Pliers (DIY Mul...
Here are the prices I based my cost comparison on:
Counterparts Kit:
Knipex £22
Bit kit £22
Tiny SAK £15
Convergence Kit:
Bladeless Rebar £95
Leatherman bit kit £30
Buy the gear in this video with these links to help the channel at no cost to you!
Knipex Cobra XS
Amazon UK: amzn.to/34UAyad
Amazon US: amzn.to/3fQx3nL
Victorinox bit kit
Amazon UK: amzn.to/33r6Lpe
Amazon US: amzn.to/3Ab44Eh (I can only find a link to it as part of another product so think this maybe why the availability is odd; it’s actually a spare part!)
Victorinox Classic
Amazon UK: amzn.to/3nAHwYm
Amazon US: amzn.to/3qz2Yit
Leatherman Rebar
Amazon UK: amzn.to/3FHrVfU
Amazon US: amzn.to/33r67Ik
Leatheman bit kit
Amazon UK: amzn.to/3qFlyFy
Amazon US: amzn.to/3fxjAkz
ARC Company Rambler XL www.etsy.com/uk/listing/67099...
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DITCHED MY (EDC) LEATHERMAN SURGE+EXTENDER+BIT KIT....FOR KNIPEX 5 INCH PLYERS/WRENCH( WONDER WHY SO MANY LIKE COBRA) AND A FEW SEPERATES(HIGH QUALITY)
you can get replacement parts for jigsaws that can hold jigsaw blades and are usable manually. Very nice, since you can just change them when they break or carry multiple blades for different materials. Also do yourself a favor and get a good knife steel blade. Not that 420hc stuff (K390 comes to mind). I prefer Knipex pliers wrench as they close parallel. You can also use those to hold driver bits (especially true for the flat design leatherman bits in case you already have those).
Overall you will end up heavier for sure but I think having the right tool for the job for a bit more money and a little more weight is worth it.
Cannot find the link to the screw driver victorinox thingi… anyone know
Hi, thank you. I'll link up and run them. Cheers.
The Knipex pliers wrench XS are the ones you want for the removal of fasteners without marring their surfaces
I have spent snap-on money on their plier wrenches
They're amazing and rightfully take up 2 spots on my pant flaps
knipex 86 series, the XS is only a little bit smaller than the 125mm but lacks the latch button and has basically the same size jaw , only a tiny bit shorter handle....
Yeah my first thought also. Why spend knipex money on tools to use them incorrectly?
Alternatively the 125mm pliers wrench are still lovely and compact and offer 20% more torque and are cheaper and easier to source than the 100mm version.
@@tjp148 yeah the XS are cute AF and hyper pocketable, but they are also 50% more money than the 125 so if EDC storage was such an issue i'd rather saw off some 125's handles ...
(and even why not carry a little tube for extra torque, something that is also tricky to do with the XS flattened handle... )
Just bought a pair of those knippex pliers and am super impressed. Quart in a pint pot.
First video I came across of yours but as an engineer and EDC enthusiast I LOVE breakdowns like this. Top notch. You earned another subscriber from me
For your scissors/awl problem, I HIGHLY recommend the Leatherman Squirt S4. It's single handedly the most used tool I own.
Unfortunately it seems to be discontinued…
I carry a leatherman wave with a bit kit. I use the knife and pliers constantly, the file and saw weekly. Also, the wire cutters/ strippers work well for me. I would be hard pressed to find separate options that add up to all of that without just getting a swiss army knife and a pair of needlenose wire strippers. I love my leatherman.
I think exactly the sak with real pliers is the best option. It fits better in the pocket, weighs less, and gives you better functionality. It's also far cheaper. I usually wear carhartt work pants, so I just keep the pliers in one of the low side pockets and that works well for me
The bits are junk one of the flatheads bent just from doing an outlet cover
First off, Victorinox only sells the bit-kit in combination with the Spirit, but almost every Victorinox dealer will sell them seperately (there is also one with ratchet and you can also get them separately in the brand stores). So, no they are not discontinued.
Another good kit is the Wera Kraftform Kompakt 10/12, as this gives you a more traditional bit holder. Slightly larger than the offering from Victorinox, but more comfortable in use.
As for L-shaped wrenches, there are quite many available in the bike world. Probably my favorite is the Mineral Mini Bar. And finally, if you can get away with 4mm bits, then there is the Red Cycling Products - Micro Pocket Tool,
Good info cheers!
Good wrench is also provided by lidl small cheap
and good quality for the money
1/4 inch open end/box wrench is cheap and light, good for turning bits. It's better to have a bit holder so that the wrench cannot glide downwards. Leverage is good, the narrow wrench can be a bit uncomfortable with tight screws. A small tube, f.ex. a tubular socket on the wrench helps that.
Granite Rocknroll Mini Ratchet for me.😌
Topeak ratchet rocket lite is a better version of the Victorinox ratchet having owned both
It comes down to personal taste and line of work. Most of the times I think a dedicated excellent tool is the best for each application and could be carried separately, on the pockets, belt, etc.
Agreed this is why I dont carry my leatherman at work
This. "Everyday carry" is mostly posturing unless you have a specific line of work. Like Jamie from Mythbusters is always fabricating so having some paper, a pencil, etc. is something he legitimately always needs to have on hand every day. Meanwhile the EDC people are too often the types to bring a cocked and loaded 1911 to a movie theater just in case the Taliban invade. Or whatever.
@@KevinJDildonik Traveling to and from the movies is when you would most need the 1911, having it at the theater is just a part of carrying an efficient self defense tool. Unless you think no one has ever been assaulted, robbed, murdered, kidnapped or raped traveling to or from the theater? 🤔
@@northernnightmare7986 good thing there’s no famous examples of people being killed at theatres
@@KevinJDildonik EDC people outside of gun nuts do exist, and most have a pretty meager amount of EDC stuff (pen, utility knife or minor multitool, wallet, watch, chapstick) unless they have specific circumstances like work gear. Or like me prefer to also have a few bandaids (chapstick on paper cuts and bandaid on top is an effective way to make them stop hurting by cutting off the air supply), headache/migraine medication, backup medication, a swig of water, and the like. EDC may have started as a gun term, but these days it's just about what trinkets you habitually keep in your pockets or on yourself. It's usually just a fun excuse to nerd over other people's cool trinkets like including them actually bothering to get a majority of their few stuff in a color theme or extra durable or whatnot. I carry a "mere" basic 4 color bic pen because that makes most sense for me, but it's fun to see other people's choices of workhorse writing implement even if it's something that is way too over-engineered or wouldn't work for your needs. Same about people's choices for small utility knife/multitool, and so on. It's cool to see what different people deem relevant for their daily lives, especially when they also show off EDC work stuff and not just what they carry for outside of work.
I'v pocket EDCed my Swiss Champ for 37 years. It has saved my bacon many times. I also EDC a Gerber Gator in 154CM. I'v been toying with the idea of carrying Knipex Cobras, still debating between 4 and 5 inch.
Came for the keyboard videos, stayed for the amazing quality of videos! Great job
Hey Ben, I love this re-analysis of what we take for granted as being useful or staus quo. A couple years ago your vids turned me onto Halmak and Ortholinear keyboards and I still think it’s great. (the plank is a little too small for me but I built an XD75RE that I LOVE) Thanks and keep doing what you do!
Nice and good info. Since retiring, I really don't need an EDC mult-tool and have been trying different pliers. The rest of the typical tools on a full size MT are on either of my Victorinox SAKs (Climber for edc an Hiker for field use}. I switch between a small needle nose and a small channel lock type pliers, depending on what I intend to do.
Thank you for the information.
The Leatherman is good if you want the tools on your belt. BTW, I think the Victorinox bit kit is offered with some versions of their Swiss Tool, which can be a good alternative to a Leatherman in their own right.
Very nice video and good explanation of the setup. The point you're making at 06:50 maybe deserves to be emphasized a little bit more. The ability to hold a nut on one side, while fastening the screw from the other side, was the main driver for me to switch from a plier based multitool, to a distributed setup.
Regarding the saw or file, you could consider swapping the small Vic for a 91mm one. As far as I can see, they should be UK-legal too, as they are not locking.
In my case it's the Explorer, because I really like the magnifier and the inline-Phillips (and I don't really have the need for a saw that often in a urban environment), but there is a wide range of options available. 🙂
I went down a similar rabbit hole for a job a few years back and went with the Wera Toolcheck PLUS. It is a little heavier and bigger than the one you have settled on, but a lot more capable and rugged. I was so happy with it, I bought one for my toolkit at home. Also I recently started to replace all my cheap tongs for Knipex tongs. They are expensive, but I am happy with the money spent EVERY time I reach for one, especially when building keyboards (small ESD tongs and side cutters)
Awesome!
With the toolcheck's sockets he wouldn't have damaged the nuts as well.
daaaamn that's a nice compact set, thanks for informing me of a new exciting thing i cant afford
Interesting ideas for sure. I'm but a novice mechanic and ever since I found a pair of small pliers akin to those knipex I was surprised by how well they worked. It's good for practically any bolt 8-13mm. Incredibly handy for doing battery installs on cars when I worked at autozone. It gets 80% of the jobs done, which is impressive just being a set of pliers.
Very interesting points you make. I will say though coming from a maintenance guy, the other random tools like a file, saw and bigger blade compared to a Swiss army tool really do come in handy for me. I do realize though that most people never need tools like that so it's just dead weight. I still believe a proper multitool is an essential piece of gear to have close to you at all times. Even if you carry your separate replacement tools, having a multitool in an edc bag or something will still come in handy every once in a while.
i find myself using all the tools on the p4 all the time doing construction. i feel naked without it
exactly, I use all of the tools of my leatherman surge almost everyday, and even if I go from home to the gas station I grab my surge just in case, no need to carry all the extra tools...
The beauty of multitools is that such a variety is available that you can mix and match them to your exact preference. This video sold me on the idea of the bit driver set and the knipex being used simultaneously and yet cutting on weight.
If I was in your situatiotion, needing a file and a saw, I would consider adding a Victorinox to the set in the video. Check out the Locksmith - one hand opening blade, large file and large saw. All three tools are longer and better than those on a Leatherman, in my oppinion.
(If I sound like a Victorinox fanboy, that's because I am. Love the idea and variety of Leatherman, but owning four models, I find the quality far inferior to a Victorinox. Sorry)
The bottom line is that there is no right or wrong answer. The best tool is the one you are personally able to use most comfortably and efficiently.
Blades, saws and files are better individually, i find more useful bike multitool that you can carry on the bike, but for cars if you don’t have a heavy tool box is better to carry the whole thing.
@@batlu97 i would never carry a separate file and saw just in case... having them conviniently folded on a multitool is worth carrying. Obviously every single tool would be better by itself but we are talking about weight and space savings
This is probably the best product review video I've ever watched
I had a very similar realization, that's why I just carry a small pair of scissors everywhere with me, it was my most used tool by far. I use scissors marketed for cutting bandages, so they don't have a sharp tip to poke a hole in my pocket.
Great video. Before retiring (from nursing), I carried a Gerber Scout 600 Pro every day either on my belt or in my work pack. Depended on dress codes. But I always had a SAK in my pocket regardless of where I was. Currently, I have pretty much replaced the Multitool with a 6 inch pliers similar to yours (Irwin brand) for around town. The multitool still goes to the field, though.
Thanks for the info and keep up the good work.
I was looking for a similar idea when I bought my Leatherman surge.
But needle nose pliers are very important for me, two very good blades and very versatile replaceable file.
All of this in one packege.
I got a wave plus as a gift a couple years ago, and still carry it every day in my backpack. It's not the best file, knife, screwdriver, scissors, etc. But it does it all good enough when you need to fix something in a pinch, and has saved me plenty of times. Weight wise it might not stack up to specialized tools, but especially for convenience it's much nicer. For my use case at least
great video as always Ben and some great points covered
I highly recommend the ICON 58074 at harbor frieght. it's a multi-position locking flex ratchet with a 1/4 inch hex through-hole, with a bit driver in the other end of the handle, and an extension which can be stuck through the ratchet head to use the other end as a t-handle bit driver. The whole case fits in your hand, and comes with 30-odd bits. Definitely bulkier than the victorinox, but has many more options. At the time of this post the cost is $45 USD.
The Icon's hardware is the most innovative I've found. Now we just need a more compact and lightweight carry system. The supplied case is fantastic in a toolbox or glove compartment, but it's far to large for a pants pocket.
Second time coming across this video and was so close to doing almost this exact setup. 10 months later and I've now tweaked it using the knipex plyers, Bitt Bar Inline, and the James Brand Ellis with straight edge. The setup can do all the things my old wingman could do but it does it way better. Love the videos
I have almost the same set up! I carry 4 (sometimes 5) inch cobras and pliers wrench, the bit bar inline, but also a leatherman titanium charge and a dedicated pocket knife like the spyderco military or the Victorinox Hunter pro alox. The main reason I got the bit bar inline was not just an edc screwdriver with a pocket clip, but to also use the outer handle as an improvised "cheater bar" if I needed some more leverage on my edc knipex. If it wasnt for that extra feature, I might have preferred their EDS 2 instead.
I’ve been looking at exactly these two options. Perfect timing and off to purchase the separates. Many thanks
Each to their own, of course. Every now and then I do an 'audit' of what I carry. The questions I ask in this audit are as follows: (1) "Given how often I use a particular tool on a multitool (ie the pliers) is it worth carrying the weight?" I cannot come up with a precise mathematical equation on this but W over U? would be a crude version (w= weight, U = use). (2). "Even if I need said tool, will I be too far away from my tool box so as to reach for the proper tool?" (3). "How many jobs that I do can afford to be bodged through want of effort to get the proper (and usually nearby) tools?"
Result: I have gone from being 'tooled out' like Batman to the contrasting situation of present. One barlow in pocket; one Modestone notepad with mini sharpie; one Gerber Shard and mini flashlight on keyring. Knipex 125 and Wera compact screwdriver in carry bag. That is all I really need. If anything more is required I have learned that it is well worth the effort to go to the 'real' tool and get the job done properly rather than bodge it.
Love it
I pretty much agree with what you said; I went through the same exercise.
After trying out a dozen different mutlitools and knives, I got a Gerber Dime a few years ago and I love it. It's light enough that I don't even notice it on my keychain, but it's got enough functionality to cover most uses I need
dime FTW! - it just doesn't get better when it comes to weight vs. usability. I'm actually on my third now (once I broke the flat-head-scredriver, another just got lost somewhere) and if I'd ever need something like it again, then I'm probably buying another. Also for my bike I got some kind of allen key with a philips-head on the short side - that's EXACTLY the right size to do like 90% of the things I'm doing on my bikes.
It's bit driver broke after 2 days of use. Love everything else though!
I just bought the knipix pliers. I have a knife, electrician scissors and a swivel head ratcheting driver, and bits and a compact box cutter. They all stay in a pouch that I can move from
One bag to another so I do not have to duplicate my carry. It is working out great.
Nice! I carried my 6" knipex cobra pliers at times with a victorinox Spartan, and yes, agreed, way more capability than any multitool that I have, but in the end, I am just a sucker for my multitools
Found your channel yesterday, loving the work, keep it up!
Awesome little deep dive. Very interesting!
The can and bottle opener are handy on the Leatherman when you sharpen the edge it makes plastic sealed package opening a snap.
I love the thought behind this. I carry a Gerber legend 800 and it is a TANK of a multitool, been through war and camping and jeeping and 23+ years of daily use, but the idea of these small high quality tool options as separate things is perfect for people that dont want to carry 10lbs on their belt and in pockets (I dont mind, personally). I have friends that like the idea of multitools but cant stand the bulk, they are all getting sent this video for sure.
I appreciate having these alternate views in the EDC echochamber.
Good alternatives. I have the Knipex Cobra Xs and it's a very handy tool. I carry it in a pouch with a Leatherman Skeletool at work and they solve most problems while being a very light carry.
Love this video and your approach to EDC, Thanks for sharing.
~2:00
"These things can grip nuts"
man i love me some DIY !
I was looking for someone to do this comparison. Thank you
Very interesting video!
Funnily enough, I went through the same process about a year and a half ago. I carried a Victorinox Tinker Deluxe, but I didn't like the bulk and the weight. The things I found I used the most where the scissors and the pliers, so I got a Knipex 125 and a Victorinox Jetsetter (bladeless) for the scissors and tweezers and I've loved the combo since. Way lighter, thinner, more capable and you can distribute the weight in different pockets or leave an item out if you don't think you need it that day. That being said, I have bought a Tinker Small to fit into that set, which perhaps brings the weight up a bit more, but I care more about slimness vs weight.
Great stuff!
Check out the Rambler! :P
Excellent! It disturbs me how much we think the same, and are thinking about the same things! Just built out my EDC.
Haha!
I have to say that these videos really hit on points that I always think about when I am building out my EDC. Really thoughtful and concise. Keep up the amazing work!
Brilliant! What an eye opener
Used to be fascinated with multitools as a kid for their fun gadget quality. As an adult I’m hard-pressed to think of a single time I found one to be truly useful
I keep breaking Leatherman pliers. Wave and surge. Time to.move on I suppose.
Great video! I always thought these mid sized plier based multitools didnt make much sense to be honest. It's sort of this middle ground where I often would have more than I need but also alot of the time less than I need. I prefer to either carry Leatherman Surge because its reassuring that it will do it all (and often a little better compared to other multitools) at the cost of substantial bulk or something small like a SOG PowerPint, Victorinox Swisschamp or a LM Juice for more convenience.
Multitools are a compromize. Thats the whole idea - substituting a bunch of dedicatrd tools for something that works "alright" but is more convenient to carry. A mid sized is a compromise on the compromise in a sense.
Of course the best thing is to know exactly what you need and stick to the bare essentials as you do.
Nicely put!
King Surge
I often carry a SAK and Knipex pliers. It’s easy, I have most tools I need, the pliers are very good and the combo is very light. I still carry a Wave + sometimes as well. It’s heavier but, most of the tools are more robust than my SAK tools. It depends on what I think I need. You can use whatever bits you want with the Leatherman extension.
2:07 "So these things can grip nuts up to 24 mm" I'm tired and my humor has gone down the toilet 😂
Not sure how this video algoed me but I'm happy! Thanks for the upload. Great looking knipex I am thinking.
I have a Leatherman Wave that I use not because it's better than the tools it replaces, it's because it's more compact than the tools it replaces.
Right ive watched alot of these videos on this idea.. and people in the comments talking shit on all multi tools being not as good as a real tool... and I don't get it,cause you nailed it I carry a modified wave plus that use almost daily but it's so much more convenient than carrying a man purse full of tools just crazy unless your doing construction and ya ought have a tool belt anyway
@@patrickbledsoe2176 Well yes and no. Right now I'm carrying a Wera screwdriver with bit extender and 3 bits, total the size of a Bic lighter, in my coin pocket, next to an actual Bic lighter. Knipex Cobra in the actual right pocket next to it and next to that a Vic Climber, clipped inside that pocket. That has 2 blades, 2 flat drivers/openers, scissors, reamer/awl and some other small tools which take up zero space. Sure it doesn't have file and saw, or wirecutters but I don't generally need them. It works for me and takes up less space than a Wave. I don't do pouches or fannybags or whatever, strictly low key pocket carry. If I do want a file and woodsaw I can swap out the Climber for a Ranger which adds those tools. All of the individual tools except the knife blade which I'd say are even stevens, are better than the ones on the Wave.
@@patrickbledsoe2176 It really depend from what you need and how you value space and weight, I mean the victorinox bit adaptator + victorinox ranger + a 145 mm knipex combination plier weight exactly 314g with four empty spot for bits.
With that you have the following function : Slip Joint large and small Blade, Nail file/ Nail cleaner/metal file/metal saw, Corkscrew, Multipurpose hook, Toothpick, Can opener, Scissors, Tweezers, 4 mm Chisel, Bottle opener, Wire stripper, Wood saw, Reamer, punch and sewing awl, screwdriver with 6 bits, and the same type of needlenose combination plier you find on most leatherman.
That's not something I would qualify as a man purse full of tool, and yet it's the near equivalent of a wave plus with few function missing and few function being added, and it is only slightly heavier and slighlty more voluminous, and where I live those three items cost less than a wave +.
Personally I think the heavier foot print for better tools is way worth it, but I do carry a small messenger bags everywhere with me so weight and space are not as much as a constraint compared to people that only pocket carry.
@@bettyswollocks9611that'd be a hell of accomplishment wouldn't it
Great video. As an edc enthusiast we must always mix n match change it up experiment with different carry options
I'm a little late to the party, but: I've never been a fan of multitools, and you have put all my thoughts on the matter into words better than I could have.
An alternative to the Victorinox driver tool: Topeak makes a ratcheting 1/4" hex driver that gives you both the high torque function of a right angle, and an in-line driver bit holder at the opposite end. With a Wiha 1/4" to 4mm hex adapter, you can include both 1/4" hex bits and precision bits in your kit, and an Altoids Smalls tin will fit a surprising number of each. All this, plus a standard driver extension, fit in my 5th pocket.
I just picked up a Cobra XS, and it is incredible. So ridiculously tiny, but so capable.
The Victorinox scissors are (still) the best--short of a dedicated tool--and they come with almost any combination of other tools you might want. Classic.
Thanks for the great vid!
Wonderful video and nice finds! Thank you
I've used a modded Skeletool (I added a 3d printed hammer) for the last 5 years and the thing just takes a beating, tons of use, knife still sharp as a razor. Wonderful quality.
what?????? could you make a video on it? thats impressive, did you build it ?
Love my skeletool.
I’ve broke so many skeletools over the years, there’s no way you’re not a shill 😂😂
@@Reverend_Taco Well I'm not a mechanic or a tradesman so if you are truly putting it to work I could see a difference in use lol.
wow, I've been assembling 15+ plier items to cover this exact topic..great minds! I'm still not 100% sure about the screwdriver..still testing.
Nice!! Look forward to watching.
I just opted to carry the mini ViceGrips around for their adjustability and combined clamping effect.
I gotta check out that driver set though! Great video and as always, Cheers!
Checkout the LM crunch
Bonus: you get a wirecutter!
brilliant video. I came to the same conclusion separately, but it took me many hours of reseach to find this stuff, especially the victorinox L shaped bit holder
Yeah me to! I was looking for that for a long time! They should sell it as a proper tool.
Wonderful video! I will need to pick up one of the Knipex pliers you were using.
I’ve carried and used the Leatherman Wave+ for three years now, often with the Leatherman bit kit in my backpack or on my belt. I’ve learned a few things about the Leatherman multi-pliers multitool system.
First, these tools really are designed as a jack of all trades. I would much rather have all the individual tools with me, except that they would weigh a heckuva lot. When carrying those tools may be helpful but overly cumbersome, that’s where multitools shine.
The second thing I have learned is that the Leatherman bit kit carries some distinct advantages that make them worth carrying. Because Leatherman bits are flat, they are lighter and slimmer to carry. Also, having all of the standard bit sizes in the world on your belt is amazing. Sure the bits wear, but so does any other screwdriver bit. Luckily, Leatherman doesn’t jack up their prices for their bits much, making it a viable and affordable option for an on-the-go toolkit to pair with a multitool.
Lastly, it’s important to pick the right multitool for your everyday needs. Each Leatherman has a different set of tools, and it’s important to consider which tools you’ll need on a daily and weekly basis. It’s also important to note that those needs will not always stay the same.
I know this is long, but this topic has been on my mind for a while. Thanks for reading.
Going to have to watch this video because even though I’ve skipped over it a million times, TH-cam just assures me this is a recommended video… for like 2 weeks straight now
ha that's hilarious! (it is really blowing up at the moment) let me know what you think!
By coincidence this is my exact edc. Before this I used to carry the Victorinox Swiss Tool X, which was way to heavy as daily driver (but this is were I got the bit kit from). Sometimes I exchange my Victorinox Rambler for the Huntsman (e.g. when going hiking).
My all time favourite multi tool is that little Victorinox with scissors. The sharpness and durability of those small blades is awesome.
Yep, the small one he showed is the one I carry everywhere with me, I use the knife a bit but the scissors way more often. And its so small you forget you have it, and I'm sure I'll inevitably lose it at some point because of its size.
I've carried a Leatherman super tool 300 for the better part of 15 years (the original I bought) and it has served very well for all I've ever needed it for. To be fair I don't use it if I have a dedicated tool available. But in a pinch and for general light duty use (and occasional use likely outside what it was intended for) it has served me well. And pairing it with a dedicated holster of which I've gone through 3 I feel it's a more than adequate multi tool.
4:17 I have the same thing, and I have loaded it up with an assortment of bits to fit my needs. I also have two more bits loaded onto the wrench itself. Victorinox also makes the same thing with a ratchet, which is really awesome
Great video. I'm often going with the exact same combo myself. Only difference is I generally take a larger Victorinox (got quite a few to choose from).
If you do want an awl with your kit, without going with a larger SAK (like the Vic Compact, Climber or Pioneer X to name a few), i guess one possible solution would be to sacrifice a bit and grind it into an awl.
One thing I would miss without the multitool plier is having a needle nose plier; the Knipex has kind of a stubby profile. If you want to grab something pretty small and need to get the jaws into a tight place, you need something with a little more narrow long profile jaws. I carry the Victorinox Spirit X, but even that has relatively fat jaws compared with the SOG multi tool. But maybe carrying a separate light needle nose would give you most options.
For a small size bit driver, I ended up getting Topeak TT2524 Ratchet Rocket Lite DX Tool , which has a very lightweight ratchet driver which has bit driver at both ends. I don't need the tire irons and other bike stuff that comes with it, but the driver and extension I carry, with my own selection of bits.
Knipex do plenty of needle-nose pliers too if that's what you need. Look for serial numbers starting with 26.
Researching which Leatherman to buy as my first multi-tool, I came to the same conclusion and bought the Knipex Cobra XS yesterday. Now it remains for me to complete the other tools separately. Other than tools I already have with my large Victorinox Forester I’ve been using for the last 10+ years.
And then I saw your video. Nice.. I like it 👍
PS
Cobra fits in my pocket nicely, and other tools (like a bit driver and set of bits) can be carried in my EDC bag all the time I'm out and about.
Knipex makes the best pliers out there. The mini cobra and parallel jaw plier set is fabulous. Just today, I was able to use the parallel jaw pliers multiple times when neither a crescent wrench nor a socket wrench would fit. The handles may be only four inches or so, but the jaws open to ~1-1/4 inches, which is more than many crescent wrenches.
I keep the one above those and the small plier wrench version on my desk at all times. All the bigger ones live in the garage, but the next size up is a pair (one of each type) in a little holster. If you genuinely use them for nuts/bokts, try the small pljer wrenches, they're a better fit. But each has their place.
The bit kit is called Victorinox 3.0303 and is a replacement for the one included in some SwissTools.
Seems like they've moved on to 3.0306 which has a ratcheting handle.
Terrific video thanks. I have tried them all and found the multi tools are Jack of all jobs but master of none or certainly not for long. I narrowed my work carry down to a double ended screw/philips driver from a motor car tool kit, a good quality light pair of long nosed pliers and a Spartan Swiss army kife. Covered me for years ln the hospitality industry fixing busted suit cases and other minor repairs. No one tool can do everything. Cheers
Brilliant!
Brilliant video!
It's looks like a personal preference. Carrying separate tools is the best solution if people clearly know what tasks they need to tackle. Leatherman is more like a backup plier/wire cutter for unexpected task and situation. In fact I always carry a Rebar and a flat bit ratchet with few hex bits in a single pouch on my work belt.
I own 2 Rebar and 1 Surge. If people asking me which model to buy, Rebar is the most recommended model if quick-folding knife isn't the priority.
I love my 5" knipex. I use it all the time, and I carry a leatherman. You could grind down one of the arms of the knipex into an awl? Keep a rubber 'glove', or slip some paracord sheath over it until you need the awl.
I have recently been considering similar options. A good combination is victorinox nailcard, Farmer alox (has saw tool,and awl), pliers mentioned here, bit set,plus small edc flashlight.
My big hangup with this setup (been considering something similar) is the lack of a wire cutter.
@@mrbigberd Not ideal I agree, but you do have wire stripper plus knife/saw blade or scissors which may do the job.
It's amazing how closely your videos mirror my own thoughts, between the custom mech keyboard, this edc pliers comparison (I found the leatherman squirt a compromise bc it at least has a puny little pliers which can be useful). One thing I thought of was 3D printing (or order in metal) tips for the leatherman squirt tips, so I could make it into tweezers as well.
Since our minds seem to go the same way, I've been getting more into sewing. It's an upfront cost for a sewing machine but then fabric/etc are super cheap. You can get 'performance' fabrics like ballistic nylon cheap too. So one thing is you can tailor your pants to your EDC exactly. If you add a welt pocket (the nice looking pocket of back pockets) to the side, you can get a side phone thigh pocket which is very convenient. Or because I find cramming things into my front/back pocket uncomfortable, I've been thinking about an ankle pocket for very seldom used things like a flashlight or backup medicine/etc. If was on the inside of the ankle it won't even rub.
I just think the normal back and front pockets are the worst place for big things bc they're uncomfortable and bulky. See sambleckley.com/writing/pockets.html
Brilliant thanks for sharing, so glad TH-cam didn’t decide to block your comment due to the link too. I will enjoy reading that! Any article titled ‘on trouser pockets’ gets my attention!
@@BenVallack pockets are an underrated area of reserarch. In fact it should be one of the primary considersations in good clothing design. My pet hate is 'fake pockets' for this reason.
i just read your article; it's excellent, as is your design. Not sure you mentioned it in your list of what people use pockets for, but keeping hands warm is another.
Brilliant article! I’m actually quite tempted to get a sewing machine now! Any good resources for getting started with the process?
@@BenVallack I should say that the article isn't mine, it's just one I enjoy. If you look on YT for getting started with sewing they'll give the equipment. A nice pair of very thin (~electronic) tweezers is also very helpful. For a sewing machine you can find cheap ones but go for 200-300 I think. I got a cheap one at first and they're unforgiving, when I was learning I did one thing wrong and it broke. (I don't know if it's in the UK but costco has a good one). Also singer was bought out so is now lower quality, I've heard janome is nicer
The best resource I've found is freesewing org. They're really cool, it gives parametric patterns so you put in 10-20 exact measurements of your body and they create a pattern for you. They also have a discord of nice people. You'll find there aren't that many male patterns around, but since many men just wear the same types of clothes, it's more about perfecting a shirt/pants/etc with different fabric than lots of patterns
Then for the welt pocket look up 'conquering the welt pocket' on seamwork but it's surprisingly tricky. As you're following it take tangents to get comfortable with the machine. But one tricky thing is if you want to jump right in and add welt pockets to *existing* pants, it's going to be hard b/c the pants are already in a joined circle. Sewing machines have 'free arms' where it tries to help fit inside existing clothes but I've had trouble getting to the thigh of existing pants even with the free arm. It's why that article makes pants from scratch. I think the solution is to make pants from scratch, seam rip part of the pants to make it flat then put back, or to hand sew (which I guess defeats getting a sewing machine, if you just want to add pockets). I'm trying to find the time but I'd still like to make pants/shirts from scratch.
It's a fun hobby but it goes deep. The amazing thing is we're only used to interacting with clothes made by professionals so, for me, my bar for what handmade would look like was skewed way too professional. But we interact with fabric/sewing all day every day. And the craziest thing is most garmets you see around are all handmade in assembly lines in factories. Like there is no automated machine for clothes (except for some t-shirts). So I sometimes walk around and look around and see how much hand-work goes into everyone's clothes around me, largely unnoticed
I found a way to make an awl by buying a very small spade bit, like for drilling holes in wood, and cutting off the shaft with a cut off wheel on a Dremel. This will fit in most bit holders. The bit usually has a hole in it too and functions as a sewing awl.
Great idea!
Love it. Great thought
Fully agree with this approach vs a multitool. I had been thinking a visegrip #5 and my Swiss Army knife. The knife has the blade, saw, and scissors. But I like your knipex and the bit kit better.
For my work EDC in particular carrying cobras in the pocket and a Crunch on my belt is most effective. I tried carrying a Surge and ST300 and it was too much… found out all I need are the basics in a multitool… and the Crunch does it near perfectly. As for my casual EDC a MiniChamp in the pocket; and Cobra/Pliers Wrench and Squirt PS4 in the EDC organizer.
I switched out my leatherman wave for that tiny pair of knipex channel locks as an EDC in my coat pocket. They take up less space and weigh less. The biggest reason I had the leatherman was for the pliers and the knipex ones are more useful to me. I might actually get the next size up pair of knipex pliers for EDC for just a little more leverage. They arent much bigger. I keep a pair in my coverall pocket all the time at work and they get lots of use.
1.PB Swiss Tools Bike Tool
2.Knipex cobra 125
3.Spyderco ukpk salt in LC200N
4.Any SAK that provides the rest If the tools u may need
GREAT video, and a very clever kit! Now add a Victorinox Hiker, or Camper, and you’ll have a saw too, plus all the great tools they come with, like an awl and large blade.
Great observations, in recent years my leatherman has been replaced by a SAK Hiker, a finger nail clipper, a small set of pliers, and a small daimond file. Lighter, cheaper, and I've gained the ability to use the file to sharpen my knife if needed.
I have a Knipex 150mm Cobra pliers, and they are handy and strong. However, one of the things I need on a multitool are wire cutters, My Skeletool has them as well as my Irwin 6" vice grips. If Knipex could incorporate them into their Cobra pliers, they would be perfect. I also carry a SAK Explorer. It serves to hold the other end of the screw.
I mean knipex also make classic combination plier they don't have any as as small as the Cobra XS but they do have 145mm version of them. If you want the same type of plier than a leatherman just take a 08 21 145 Needle-Nose Combination Pliers, it is a 145mm 116 g plier. You even have version with insulated handles.
Knipex needs to make a multi tool in the style of the cobra. Would be a killer product.
Why has YT only just recommended this video?! It's exactly the sort of thing I'm interested in. I usually EDC a Leatherman Bond, and a Nexttool Sailor Mini (The Mini is in a little pouch with a small flashlight and a lighter, that is core EDC), and I've experimented with other tools that are more plier like,..... meanwhile Amazon still have that bit set, so I'm going to investigate that and similar options,... many thnks!
It was a late bloomer! Suddenly just went through the roof.
Nice to see someone exploring other avenues to reach the same objective in a better way.
Those pliers are so cute 🥰 nice finish and build quality
I use the same Victorinox bit set. Pro tip, you can superglue some 6x1mm neodynium disc magnets onto each bit holder to make them magnetically hold the bits. It's a real game changer imo.
Nice. I totally agree. I quit Leatherman years ago and I've been carrying a knipex pliers wrench which is much more powerful than the Cobra for many tasks because the plier mechanism provides around x4 the pressing force. I had a Cobra but sold it. And don't be afraid to explore the 5, 6 or even 7 inch sizes. They are little powerhouses and even the 7" plus a 91mm Victorinox is lighter in weight than a large Leatherman.
And check out the Victorinox electrician. Everything on it is worlds better than the tiny ones. Most importantly for me is the springs on these aluminum units that are very strong but still UK legal. The large flat head is great. Good awl/reamer. Plus the small electrician blade is great for utility while leaving the large blade clean for fruit. No scissors but you can get that in the pioneer x model.
Great idea. Or if you're comparing to a multitool with just plain old Phillips and flat screwdrivers, the answer is just the pliers plus your favorite SAK. My Hiker plus Rambler gives me everything I want except a pliers. So you're right. I should just add a pliers.
Brilliant stuff
I carry Knipex XS and Leatherman Signal in the Outdoor Tools pouch but on myself is just Vic Farmer X and Leatherman Style PS for hiking. Each tools has it own benifit so it depends on your needs
Excellent video covering excellent lines of critical thinking. One doubt I have is the notion that the price of the separated kit beats the price of the Rebar. In my country, by the time one buys the Knipex pliers, the Victorinox SAK, and the Victorinox bit kit, the price of the Rebar has been exceeded. But all other points in this video are great, smart lines of thinking
Interesting, my thinking was based on these prices from UK Amazon:
Knipex £22
Bit kit £22
Tiny SAK £15
--
Bladeless Rebar £95
Leatherman bit kit £30
This video was very interesting and I very much enjoyed the breakdown of you thoughts. Clearly your new system suits your needs far better than a leatherman could.
I carry leatherman Surge daily, it is terrifically heavy and without the pocket clip, it sits awkwardly in your pocket.
However, I always see my multi tool as a get out of jail card or a quick fix tool. When I need it it works to get you out of a pinch and I wouldn’t not have one.
But when it comes to planned work or a small project you just cannot beat having the correct tools for the job. Of course actual pliers will be better than multi tool pliers, proper bit drivers or a small 1/4” set will be better than multi tool bits.
A multi tool shouldn’t be leant on as a tool box in your pocket. It’s a compromise system to offer you choice and flexibility at the cost of capability. If you need a tool box, just carry one.
This may be moot given the availability of what I'm about to suggest, but the Leatherman Style CS has the best scissors in a keychain form factor I've ever used - it's the main tool instead of pliers. If you can find one (they were discontinued a few years ago I believe), it'd be a worthy alternative to the Victorinox Classic.
I just picked up the Knipex Cobra XS and the SwissTool Bit/Wrench kit. Fantastic analysis of a solution to the bulk of an all-in-one multitool.
Thank you for an interesting video.
Leatherman wave with pocket clip, custom leather belt holster that holds full bit kit and long extension bit driver and knipex pliers wrench 125 all carried in tru spec 24/7 pants or shorts. Perfect setup I've found so far.
Thanks, I also found that Topeak Ratchet Kit works very well in combination with Knipex tool. I have both and compared to Victorinox, the upside is that Topeak features a fine tooth ratchet mechanism with reverse lever and thumb wheel for quick rotation and control in tight spots and includes hardened steel tools
Great, sounds good, will check that out.
One other thing I would miss in this setup is wire cutters...
@@agazov Yeah I forgot to mention that. Another variable to weigh up.
@@agazov Yes, a hard requirement for me.
The next up knipex with the red rubber handles are my go to’s. Those are just a tad too small for my hands. But for the added length and grip isn’t much of a weight diff and the whole thing is literally only 1” longer. I need look into that bit thing. Also if you swap the classic for a manager you get your choice of toothpick/tweezer a pen n cap lifter eyeglass screwdriver plus all the classic goodness. Cool video
I need to figure out my EDC. I don’t typically wear pants anymore as my weight makes it difficult to be comfortable in them, but I have found some decent jeans recently that make it more comfortable for me than it has been in the past. All that said, I have been looking for a solution to carrying my EDC and my phone. Once I have that figured out, I think it’ll be worth revisiting this video for ideas and inspiration.
Maybe something like the Hill People Gear kit bag or a sling bag of some type might work.
Try edc pouch on your belt👍
I just ordered the Vicky bit kit and knipex pliers. I edc a Skeletool and it’s been amazing. I love it. The only issue is that I have really nice pocket knives and I want to carry one without it being redundant. So I’m going to give this a go for a while. Hope it all fits in the leatherman belt case.
Great video by the way, really pleasing to watch.
Stay tuned for next video looking at my current setup. It actually has a good justification for redundancy in the knife.
Yeah I do something like that but out of neccessity as I can't carry the Skeletool (blade locks). My Skeletool killer is the Spyderco Urban (one handed opening, great blade steel and ergos), Knipex Cobra XS, and a small Wera driver (size of a Bic lighter) with 2 in extender and a couple of bits.
Fully agree with the philosophy here. I have a Leatherman rebar that my sons gave me. It is useful but too heavy and has a locking blade so it’s not legal to carry. It stays in my work bag. I find the scissors on the Victorinox Pioneer X alox to work really well. Have you seen the Topeak Ratchet Rocket - I think the ratchet makes it slightly better than the Victorinox and has a long reach option/extension bar. I have this for my cycle bag and car glove box. I added in a flat head screwdriver bit.
I have been carrying Knipex pliers since I heard about them on another channel. I like them in my EDC. The bit driver with bits looks interesting might have to check it out.