I will be swapping the package opener and the Serrated Knife from my P4. I've never used the regular saw in the P4 - ever. All of my holsters sit in the corner collecting dust, never used them.
I thought about that small L-shaped tab in front of the large bit driver, and I’m sure they put that in to avoid having the bit slip out and potentially get lost when you use the impact surface.
I have two Waves, I thought I had lost the first one I bought and just had to buy a replacement straight away. You guessed it, the original showed up in one of my dry bags. The first one is now 19 years old and they are great tools. I have thought about an Arc, I like the look of it, but the price is a factor, especially in the UK where they are far more expensive than in the States. For the moment I decided to stay with the Wave but try to augment my camping tool set. I bought a Roxon Phantom, not as good as a Leatherman but does come with a mean scissors which is far more versatile than any Leatherman. As you pointed out in the video it may be possible for a bigger scissors to e incorporated in the Arc, which would be a good design evolution . Great video, I enjoyed it.
I purchased my P2 a couple weeks before I knew that the arc was going to be released, I’m still within my 30 day return period Actually. But after seeing your hands on and valuing your opinion, I don’t see that much of a change for me with that much of a price increase if the price is 240 some odd dollars like you said so I think I will be sticking with my P2. It’s been a great tool.
@@dualsportoutdoors I can respect that but that was exactly my point for $100 more after tax and everything I can’t see myself using the “extra” features that the arc offers. Don’t get me wrong. It’s an awesome tool, but not enough for me to go from the P2.
@@walkerg.6961 I thought that about the Victorinox Tinker I inherited from my grandpa but then my dad gave me the Camper model and before I knew it, I was finding uses for all the extra stuff almost daily. I'm currently packing a P4 that I modded the phillips driver on to work with the adapter that allows my Super Tool 300 to use the Leatherman bit kit. My only gripe with the P4 is that the file sucks donkey nuts. My only gripe with the Arc is the lack of a serrated blade but I can work around that by either swapping the scissors off of it for a P4 serrated blade or by adding an extra serrated knife to my EDC system
I had the OHT spring loaded multitool and had a weak grip when putting pressure to a bolt and twisting it in different sides. I don't mind sacrificing a spring loaded mulititool over the strength that my P4 has. I would like to test an Arc tho. Hopefully my experience helps you in deciding whether spring loaded or not.
Checkout the difference in thickness at the edge of the replaceable wire cutter. The arc is slightly thicker which would allow for more grip force before it gives way compared to the p4. Not that most people would be able to put that much force of course, but I know some people don’t like the replaceable cutters because it makes the plier head weaker. So this I think is a slight upgrade
For sure! The P4 was already a step up from the Wave+ where I have seen the bolt hole for the wire cutters become a point of failure on the jaws if any twisting motion is applied at all.
@@cdigames I can't get on board with the Free template. Can't do the magnets for my uses. The wire cutters are just another example of the overall declining quality - "Lifetime guarantee"...except that for that bit and these bits and those bits... they're disposable consumables. My next one will be a Victorinox
I have a possible answer for the little piece around the bit driver .. I have the Charge Titanium and when I have a bit inside the bit driver it will actually kinda of rub or get stuck on the pliers head when I'm closing the tool and have to open / close it again to get the tool to close properly. I still think it's very cool
Ooooff that price is steep! I do appreciate that they didnt keep the spring loaded pliers. I feel they could have kept some of the features of the P4 for that price such as the box opener, and the depth guage.
Arc all the way. Far more useful toolset. I gave my Free to my cousin and kept some other tools. I’m extremely excited to pick up an Arc when it’s in stock.
Two Great videos! Good job getting this before REI caught their mistake. I was looking at my P4 during your unboxing video. You perfectly corrected some of your mistakes of your unboxing video. Thank you for making such informative videos.
Not if you break it down. 230 for the Arc. One of the cheapest magnacut knives you can get is about 125. Now at 105, minus 15 for the bit kit and you're at 90 for the rest of the tool. Not to mention a bigger sheath. Killer price.
The arc would be my choice here. The main tools I tend to use is the bit driver (I need the torq bits and some of the other bits you can’t get without it), pliers, and the file. Add with the magnacut blade I didn’t need the serrated blade the toolset on the Arc is much better for me.
No serrated blade is a big miss for me as i usually carry a folding knife so id honestly take a tool with no main blade and a serrated one over no serrated blade.
I understand your needs, but its not mine. I only carry a multitool, so its good to have a backup blade when they are built in cheap 420hc, just in case. But magnacut steel is good enough for all my tasks, so no need to have both.
@raphaelg8801 420hc is imo underrated its one of the toughest stainless steels. Sure not the greatest edge retention but I'd take a dull knife that's relatively easy to sharpen over a shipped edge. I'm actually considering swapping my s30v blade in my tti for a 420hc just for the toughness lol.
@goaway3333 that's what goat tools is trying to do hopefully it will be all we hope it will be. Also there are a couple videos on yt that shows how to but the scissor from the wingman on a wave so you basically get a smaller surge. And I think the awl from the surge fits in the spot the scicors go in a wave.
Seeing a lot of broken plier tip threads about the arc on Reddit. One was a custom with a broken tip straight from the box. All seemed to be a casting/tempering issue. Seeing a good amount of cutters in the pliers chipping as well. Pretty apprehensive about getting one right now. Plus there are a few machinists selling custom parts for the free series on eBay that is making me consider going that route on my p4. Yeah, there is a magnacut blade so I get the price point there. But I carry a fix blade edc for larger chores so I don’t think this tool will be anything I’m going to rush out and get.
Выбирайте из : Wave , Charge или Charge TTi . Их проектировал инженер. P4 и ARC проектировал дизайнер. Очень хороший , но......всего лишь дизайнер. Choose from : Wave , Charge or Charge TTi . They were designed by an engineer. P4 and ARC were designed by the designer. Very good, but......just a designer.
I've been rocking the sidekick since 2016 & it's been very faithful, but I was in the market for something different, one that the tools locked open. After looking around, I went with the p4. It's definitely larger & has afew more blades than I actually need, but all good. I'm a huge Leatherman fan & this p4 is about a week old & I already have used it a bunch, I'm pleased with it. I don't like that the pliers aren't spring-loaded
@@cwsmith17why? Imo p4 tools are pretty bad. Useless too small file, useless too small ruler, no changeable bits, 4 flat screwdrivers. P4 small tools are pretty bad imo.
When you consider that there are just knives with Magnecut for more than this I think that speaks for the value itself. Essentially you’re getting an expensive knife with the quality Leatherman toolsets. I know people do complain about the price, but as someone who has spent thousands on knives alone this is a no brainer. So long as it’s the tool set you need at least.
It appears that the Arc is a gussified version of the P4...apparently the LTG is continuing the P4-related route in multitools...I so hoped there would be more innovation, especially with the Wave & the Surge....but....thanks! Good review!😊
The pros for the Charge is that it is more comfortable in the hand, it is easier to mod and it has the cutting hook on the serrated blade. The advantages of the P4 over the Arc is basically just it is cheaper. The Arc is definitely a better tool than the P4 as it has better smaller tools and a better blade. The Arc is more modern than the Charge with it's magnetic technology and it feels smoother. It really comes down to whether a better knife blade and a more modern frame is worth an extra hundred pounds to you. The Charge is just fine but the Arc is new with a couple cool features.
Ugh, I feel like they missed the mark with the Arc. They should’ve included the spring loaded plier head with the adjustable pivot, a sewing eye for the reamer to make it an awl, and then the flathead/bottle opener is missing the package opener. Regardless, I’ll be picking one of these up. Pretty awesome that you got yours super early!
LOL. I agree on the spring pliers and adjustable pivot, but that doesn't mean they missed the mark. They literally made the Arc EXACTLY what customers complained about with what the Free P4 did wrong.
I agree, I think it probably came down to production costs/feasibility for the mass market. adding spring-loaded pliers to the Garage 05 was probably a pretty complicated thing to scale up. but, just speculation. I wish it had spring loaded pliers for sure. on some LMs people add neomidium magnets in such a way that they repel against each other when the pliers are open for a spring-loaded effect. might be worth exploring with the arc!
I never got any of the free series tools, but with all my multitools, except for my PowerPint, I use them alot in a L shape to get more torque on a screw. I haven't seen anyone doing that with a free series tools, but I have seen many people use other multitools in a L shape. Can this frame not handle that stress? I am not talking lagbolt stress, but sometimes I have to sink a 2-6 inch regular wood screw into a deck or like the other day I had to fix my step and I used my Rebar. Thanks for answering this question because it just occurred to me that this might be a reason why I don't get a free series tool.
@@hvacbudget8600 I definitely like my goat. I’m still kind of unsure of its heavy dutyness. But I don’t really use my multitool that way unless I have to. My Gerber made it thru 6 yrs of doing concrete. But I use heavy duty tool to do heavy duty stuff. And sometimes break heavy duty tools. Keep up the good vids Hvac!👍🏼
Awesome vid! I actually pulled the trigger on a Charge TTi, but I'm a little disappointed. I wish Leatherman used the same blade they put in the Signal (I have that) since it's the thickest blade they put on any of their tools. On the Charge it seems a little flimsy/thin given the price point. Also, the scissors could be more robust and the attachable pocket clip is a little wobbly. It's understandable given that it's detachable but I still think with the price they charge these should've been taken care of. It's still my EDC though 😎
Hmm, the micro adapter and the bit adapter were certainly a nice addition. The awl/reamer on the Arc went more towards the reamer than awl. The awl on the P4 leaned more towards being an awl with a lacing eye, but still has a bit of a reamer blade edge. All interesting.
I've been a big fan of the p4 for years. And I'd love to get an ARC. But I just cannot justify the expense. It just doesn't seem like that much of a change.
I wonder if I could put a P4 serrated blade in the scissor slot on the Arc. I don't need scissors on a large multitool. I have them on my Juice CS4 in my pocket, my Victorinox Classic on my keys, and I also have a Raptor in each first aid kit
The first thing you notice is that the part rattles and rattles when you first grab it, and the blade also rattles when it is in folded in. If you then open the multitool, the second disillusionment comes straight away: the handles of the pliers twist and move 3-5 mm towards each other when unfolded, something like this doesn't even exist with the typical 25 euro multitools from the famous online retailer Amazon. It's absolutely inexplicable to me how you can build a 300 euro tool so rickety, no comparison to the Surge, for example, which had zero, zero play in all areas and didn't rattle either. The next disillusionment is with the pouch supplied, which shows that the tool was designed absolutely carelessly, the Leatherman pouch is far too big for the ARC and it quickly disappears completely into the holster, making it difficult to pull and it looks easy It is finally off when there is still 3 cm free above the closure tab. Since it wasn't even worth the effort to customize your own bag. The Magna-Cut blade is quite small overall, of course you have to say how it performs, but what seems very dubious is that it rattles in the “offline state” and it is not unclear whether the blade does not constantly rub against the inside , I feared that. It's a shame, the tool is being returned bypassed. Don't forget the terrible bit system made of soft steel and perverse prices.
Thank you for sharing. Is the P4 being discontinued? The Leatherman site seems to have it at the very bottom of the Multi-Tool page, and it is also not available. I know this is not very scientific, but aren't the tools near the bottom of Leatherman Multi-tool page the ones that are being d/c? The arc really seems like an upscale Wave with an awl, and I definitely prefer the can opener/cap lifter/wire stripper on the Wave+.
Short answer is I'm not sure. Long answer, if I werebto guess, Leatherman doesn't have or chooses to have, the capacity at the moment to make the Arc and the P2 and P4 all at once. Perhaps material, manpower is in shortage or Leatherman is just running a very tight ship. Someone commented that the MUT is definitely coming back into stock according to Leatherman. So I think some products at the bottom of the page are less of a priority. But this is all conjecture.
I find myself using the P4 screwdrivers as chisels although I'm not sure that's what they're made for. Any idea if that's part of their intended use and does the ARC have any tools that can be used as light duty chisels?
That price is steep, I get it but you really don’t need anything more than S30V on a multitool IMO. It’s cool and I like the tools on the Arc though. I guess I don’t mind paying $200+ for a knife so why not right!
Looks interesting but I would really prefer a serrated blade AND a plain blade. The full length tools and bit drivers seem really cool though. I’m at the point where if it’s a limited run then I don’t care - I actually use my tools.
After a few years of Victorinox Spirit, I deliberately decided against the Arc and for the P4 because I think that except for the large file compared to the small file on the P4 (wich works and you lose the serrated blade. ) and a few changes, are there no significant differences. The awl works on the P4, is longer, not so conical, has a whole and the small screwdriver on top was already used on my daughter's toy. In my opinion better. If you want to use the Leatherman bits, all you have to do is put an adapter (aliexpress) on the Phillips, then this advantage of the Arc is no longer available. And I placed the missing microdriver in the frame under the scissors with a suitable adapter (etsy) and a magnet. Then only the Magnacut blade remains. Since I usually carry a folder and the blade on the P4 doesn't cut any worse, this is also of no interest to me. I think the P4 is better than its reputation and doesn't have to hide behind the arc.
Feel like Leatherman just use old suplies of miniscrew, trow out many tools and fill a gap with bit driver. For me this tool feels cheap, it must be “Free P5” but we give you fashion new steel and cool name, so pay now more. And of course problem of all multitool - they don’t solve all your needs.
I love my Victorinox Spirit X… I don’t have the MX Clip and really miss a one hand opening knife. Knowing me, maybe I’ll end up getting both. Ha! Wife would be like what?!? Why?!?
Ok, it's a multitool. It has a slightly polished appearance, better blade steel, but I still don't see a good price-quality ratio. I think it will serve more for EDC Instagram pictures than people will use it for work (with some exceptions)
Is ‘Made in the USA’ considered a special quality mark like ‘Made in Germany’? From what I’ve seen, some Chinese products in the tool sector are superior to German ones.
Arc, innovadora pero pierde la hoja perlada y su costo es extremadamente alto. Si letherman agregara un punzón a la wave, realmente crearían la multiherramienta Perfecta en funciones y precio. Gracias por tus videos. Un saludo
Wife gets me a new leatherman for Christmas every year. Have the tti bought twice gave one away to son ,wave,wave+ ,p4 free, wingman and now this year arc my favorite was the p4 free love the magnets but major draw back was no bit driver. So I used the tti mainly daily. The tti will definitely get replaced by the arc for sure. I’d say it is the best in my opinion although I did use the gut hook on the tti a lot. Always carry the ratchet driver and a stream light flashlight on sheath. I easily have 100k in tools as I am a technician and my leathermans are my top tools.
Way too expensive to me. At that price I expect it to be a fully modular took and come with all the extra parts and bits I could ever want. In the end I don't think I would want to carry a tool that expensive around and risk losing it.
As is arc is a fair price. Easily increased work efficiency. Good quality tool set. Would I mod it? Most definitely. But as it stands ,it would be a welcome companion for pretty much all. What's it missing? The t-shank, quarter inch driver, better scissors. Yes you can wear out the saw and file, these need to be easily replaceable.
Wasn't the Arc supposed to be 2mm thicker than the P4 ? They look identical in thickness. The unnecessarily short scissors not taking full advantage of the extra space is a missed opportunity and the price, heavens !!! At that price, it needs to be a bigger upgrade from the P4. Feeding my family with Biden's inflation of food prices due to Federal overspending and $Billions to Ukraine, the Arc is unaffordable. Many voted for Biden KNOWING he has dementia, was incompetent, AND was a crook, and voted for him anyway. Elections have consequences.
the short scissors are great for snapping off zip ties because you do get more force at the tip. honestly the length is perfectly fine for a multitool.
My two complaints about the P4 were the pocket clip location (affects how you open it after pulling from pocket) and lack of bit driver. ARC fixes both of these *and* gives me a better blade, a full size file and a micro-screwdriver. #winning. *EDIT* actually no, they haven't moved the clip to the opposite end, just the opposite side. That won't make any difference for me. About the only improvements I could think to make would be a half-serrated blade or an additional full-serrated (hard to do and maintain size), and make the file the same as the swappable extension on the surge that will take a file or any other attachment with the same standardised shank. This would solve the serrated ask at the same time. It seems ARC isn't yet available at retail (bladehq/knifecentre). Any ideas when it will go on sale? *EDIT* ARC's awl is sub-optimal due to the lack of a hole. While I've never found myself needing to "sew with it in anger", the lack of a hole seems a weird omission.
Reddit says 10-17-23 as the release date but who knows. I have heard other rumors as well. I think someone mentioned it would be out Monday. The Arc definitely addresses issues with the previous Free series.
The lack of hole on the awl is SUPER strange, every awl in the past has had a hole, and if nothing else it's been a lifesaver in the few times it is needed.
Das erste was auffällt ist, dass das Teil schon beim ersten Angreifen scheppert und klappert, auch die Klinge im Ruhezustand scheppert. Öffnet man dann das Multitool kommt gleich die zweite Ernüchterung, die Griffe der Zange verwinden und verschieben sich im ausgeklappten Zustand um 3-5 mm zueinander, so etwas gibt es nicht einmal bei den typischen 25 Euro Multitools vom berühmten Onlinehändler Amazon. Ist für mich absolut unerklärlich wie man ein 300 Euro Tool so klapprig bauen kann, kein Vergleich zB zum Surge, der in allen Bereichen null,null spiel aufwiest und auch nicht scheppert. Die nächste Ernüchterung wartet beim mitgelieferten Pouch, daran erkennt man, dass das Tool absolut lieblos gestaltet wurde, das Leatherman-Pouch ist viel zu groß für den ARC und dieser verschwindet fast vollständig im Holster, er ist dadurch schwer zu ziehen und es sieht einfach elendig aus, wenn oberhalb zur Verschluss-Lasche noch 3 cm frei bleibt. L hat es nicht einmal der Mühe wert gefunden, eine eigne Tasche anzupassen. Die Magna-Cut-Klinge ist insgesamt recht klein, wie sich schlägt muss man natürlich sagen, was aber sehr dubios erscheint ist, dass sie im "offline-Zustand" scheppert und es nicht unklar ist, ob die Klinge nicht ständig an der Innenseite reibt, ich befürchte das. Schade, das Tool geht umgehend retour. Nicht vergessen darf man auch das Grotten-schlechte Bit-System aus weichem Stahl und perversen Preisen.
The damn free series is confusing to me. I talk so much crap about it and yet i have both the p2 and p4 which i carry either one DAILY. Its like i hate it but i also like it? Then the arc comes out and im talking even more shit about this one mainly because of the price! Bought one today and will most likely carry it daily 😒. Damn free series.....
@@OutCast4Ever91 They are great tools that at least p2 and p4 could have used a better toolset. The Arc has a great toolset but crazy price! Definitely a mix of good and not great but overall pretty fantastic tools like you said!
Still has that uncomfortable metal nub that sticks out near the bottom of the handle when in pliers mode like the P4 does. Hard Pass. Also do they even mention an HRC range for the Magnacut blade?
See I call this BS comparison. Limited run compared to one I can go and buy. If everyone can pick between the 2 as a choice I would have enjoyed this review. Jealous abit maybe. But reviewing these is apples to orange since you can buy one and not the other!!
i own the P2 and P4, currently waiting on a arc. I've been using the P4 at work for years. everything from fixing water main to doing electrical work. The P4 worked just fine. The only issue is metal shavings. I threw it on a bench once with shavings and they stuck onto the tool pretty good. I'm not around metal shavings very often though, so it's not a problem. The one handed opening is very handy.
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You are literally on the front line of the multitool frontier. Can’t believe these actually shipped.
I was shocked!
mine arrives tomorrow. looks sweet! thanks for the vid@@hvacbudget8600
I will be swapping the package opener and the Serrated Knife from my P4. I've never used the regular saw in the P4 - ever. All of my holsters sit in the corner collecting dust, never used them.
I tend never to use my file,saw, or can opener on my multi tools but some people find them useful. Sounds like a cool idea!
I thought about that small L-shaped tab in front of the large bit driver, and I’m sure they put that in to avoid having the bit slip out and potentially get lost when you use the impact surface.
Correct
Yup, same as my Garage #005. It actually doesn’t hold the bit in very well during use so I’m guessing they were worried about it falling out.
Much much more practical interior tools but a ridiculous price ☹️
Very true!
Yeah id gladly take an Arc without the Magnacut for the $150 ish price point of the P4
@@The_Draquean ‘Arc Lite’ or something similar!
I will stick with my 10 year old wave It had a new driver warranty a new blade warranty new pliers warranty best tool ever.
I have two Waves, I thought I had lost the first one I bought and just had to buy a replacement straight away. You guessed it, the original showed up in one of my dry bags.
The first one is now 19 years old and they are great tools. I have thought about an Arc, I like the look of it, but the price is a factor, especially in the UK where they are far more expensive than in the States. For the moment I decided to stay with the Wave but try to augment my camping tool set. I bought a Roxon Phantom, not as good as a Leatherman but does come with a mean scissors which is far more versatile than any Leatherman. As you pointed out in the video it may be possible for a bigger scissors to e incorporated in the Arc, which would be a good design evolution . Great video, I enjoyed it.
I purchased my P2 a couple weeks before I knew that the arc was going to be released, I’m still within my 30 day return period Actually. But after seeing your hands on and valuing your opinion, I don’t see that much of a change for me with that much of a price increase if the price is 240 some odd dollars like you said so I think I will be sticking with my P2. It’s been a great tool.
The P2 is really nice! Especially with some of the mods out there!
Switch to the Arc. Better blade and far better tool set
@@dualsportoutdoors I can respect that but that was exactly my point for $100 more after tax and everything I can’t see myself using the “extra” features that the arc offers. Don’t get me wrong. It’s an awesome tool, but not enough for me to go from the P2.
@@walkerg.6961 I thought that about the Victorinox Tinker I inherited from my grandpa but then my dad gave me the Camper model and before I knew it, I was finding uses for all the extra stuff almost daily. I'm currently packing a P4 that I modded the phillips driver on to work with the adapter that allows my Super Tool 300 to use the Leatherman bit kit. My only gripe with the P4 is that the file sucks donkey nuts. My only gripe with the Arc is the lack of a serrated blade but I can work around that by either swapping the scissors off of it for a P4 serrated blade or by adding an extra serrated knife to my EDC system
I still think Surg is the best multitool you can buy.
Just ordered mine! I’m so friggin excited!
Nice!
Regrets? Worth it?
The Free P4 is one of the greatest of all time.
I agree. A full-sized and diamond file would have made it perfect. It's like a 9 out of 10.
I had the OHT spring loaded multitool and had a weak grip when putting pressure to a bolt and twisting it in different sides. I don't mind sacrificing a spring loaded mulititool over the strength that my P4 has. I would like to test an Arc tho. Hopefully my experience helps you in deciding whether spring loaded or not.
My Interest In Leatherman Tools Stopped After I Bought The SURGE...My Favorite In My Collection. Prices Have Gone Crazy High!!!!
Thank you for your video. You answered every question I had. That was awesome.
Glad it was helpful!
Checkout the difference in thickness at the edge of the replaceable wire cutter. The arc is slightly thicker which would allow for more grip force before it gives way compared to the p4. Not that most people would be able to put that much force of course, but I know some people don’t like the replaceable cutters because it makes the plier head weaker. So this I think is a slight upgrade
Very cool! Thanks for the info!
For sure! The P4 was already a step up from the Wave+ where I have seen the bolt hole for the wire cutters become a point of failure on the jaws if any twisting motion is applied at all.
I hate the replaceable wire cutters and the bit drivers, bring back the original wave
@@CastorRabbitat least the Free P4 has fixed bit drivers. But sadly I think that the replaceable wire cutter blades are here to stay.
@@cdigames I can't get on board with the Free template. Can't do the magnets for my uses. The wire cutters are just another example of the overall declining quality - "Lifetime guarantee"...except that for that bit and these bits and those bits... they're disposable consumables. My next one will be a Victorinox
I have a possible answer for the little piece around the bit driver .. I have the Charge Titanium and when I have a bit inside the bit driver it will actually kinda of rub or get stuck on the pliers head when I'm closing the tool and have to open / close it again to get the tool to close properly. I still think it's very cool
Yep, mine does the same. Took me a bit to figure out what the issue was.
Good observation!
Only thing that's missing is the sewing hole on the awl
You could always mod it and drill one out!
Ooooff that price is steep! I do appreciate that they didnt keep the spring loaded pliers. I feel they could have kept some of the features of the P4 for that price such as the box opener, and the depth guage.
Arc all the way. Far more useful toolset. I gave my Free to my cousin and kept some other tools. I’m extremely excited to pick up an Arc when it’s in stock.
Good choice!
Two Great videos! Good job getting this before REI caught their mistake. I was looking at my P4 during your unboxing video. You perfectly corrected some of your mistakes of your unboxing video. Thank you for making such informative videos.
Thanks for watching!
$240 bucks seems like alot. Even with magnacut steel on the blade.
Not if you break it down. 230 for the Arc. One of the cheapest magnacut knives you can get is about 125. Now at 105, minus 15 for the bit kit and you're at 90 for the rest of the tool. Not to mention a bigger sheath. Killer price.
The arc would be my choice here. The main tools I tend to use is the bit driver (I need the torq bits and some of the other bits you can’t get without it), pliers, and the file. Add with the magnacut blade I didn’t need the serrated blade the toolset on the Arc is much better for me.
That bit adapter kind of looks like the saw blade attachment from the Surge, kind of like a mix between the bit adapter/saw holder. Does it open up?
No it does not.
No serrated blade is a big miss for me as i usually carry a folding knife so id honestly take a tool with no main blade and a serrated one over no serrated blade.
I understand your needs, but its not mine. I only carry a multitool, so its good to have a backup blade when they are built in cheap 420hc, just in case. But magnacut steel is good enough for all my tasks, so no need to have both.
@raphaelg8801 420hc is imo underrated its one of the toughest stainless steels. Sure not the greatest edge retention but I'd take a dull knife that's relatively easy to sharpen over a shipped edge. I'm actually considering swapping my s30v blade in my tti for a 420hc just for the toughness lol.
@goaway3333 that's what goat tools is trying to do hopefully it will be all we hope it will be. Also there are a couple videos on yt that shows how to but the scissor from the wingman on a wave so you basically get a smaller surge. And I think the awl from the surge fits in the spot the scicors go in a wave.
and I want a plain blade and no serrated one.
Seeing a lot of broken plier tip threads about the arc on Reddit. One was a custom with a broken tip straight from the box. All seemed to be a casting/tempering issue. Seeing a good amount of cutters in the pliers chipping as well. Pretty apprehensive about getting one right now. Plus there are a few machinists selling custom parts for the free series on eBay that is making me consider going that route on my p4. Yeah, there is a magnacut blade so I get the price point there. But I carry a fix blade edc for larger chores so I don’t think this tool will be anything I’m going to rush out and get.
Wow! That is concerning!
Выбирайте из : Wave , Charge или Charge TTi . Их проектировал инженер. P4 и ARC проектировал дизайнер. Очень хороший , но......всего лишь дизайнер. Choose from : Wave , Charge or Charge TTi . They were designed by an engineer. P4 and ARC were designed by the designer. Very good, but......just a designer.
I'm planning on getting a Charge TTI soon hopefully.
Tbh I can’t wait to get the Leatherman Arc, I didn’t know it even existed until a few days ago but it looks awesome.
Nooo I wanted the spring loaded pliers 💔
Still a good tool tho 😁👍
So it’s really a P4 V2.
Pretty much!
Yep, really nothing innovative here. I'd like to see LM take some real risks.
Apart from different individual implements, are there any improvements in the Arc's basic frame and plier that make it better than the P4?
@@cayana-r4p I don't think so.
Great review.
Thanks!
I've been rocking the sidekick since 2016 & it's been very faithful, but I was in the market for something different, one that the tools locked open. After looking around, I went with the p4. It's definitely larger & has afew more blades than I actually need, but all good. I'm a huge Leatherman fan & this p4 is about a week old & I already have used it a bunch, I'm pleased with it. I don't like that the pliers aren't spring-loaded
I'm glad you like it!
The P4 is such a amazing multitool. It's actually at GOAT level IMO.
@@cwsmith17why? Imo p4 tools are pretty bad. Useless too small file, useless too small ruler, no changeable bits, 4 flat screwdrivers. P4 small tools are pretty bad imo.
It just works for my needs right now. But the regular Spirit X w/clip is also GOAT level IMO@@aevilblonde3229
When you consider that there are just knives with Magnecut for more than this I think that speaks for the value itself. Essentially you’re getting an expensive knife with the quality Leatherman toolsets. I know people do complain about the price, but as someone who has spent thousands on knives alone this is a no brainer. So long as it’s the tool set you need at least.
Very true!
It appears that the Arc is a gussified version of the P4...apparently the LTG is continuing the P4-related route in multitools...I so hoped there would be more innovation, especially with the Wave & the Surge....but....thanks! Good review!😊
It does seem Leatherman sees the Free technology as the new platform to invest in!
@@hvacbudget8600 Yup!
I’d be more excited if it had a T-shank adapter like the Surge and was just a little bit longer… Also them switching to a hex 1/4 inch driver
Should I get the p4 or the charge+ for 120€ each or wait for the arc for 200~€?
The pros for the Charge is that it is more comfortable in the hand, it is easier to mod and it has the cutting hook on the serrated blade.
The advantages of the P4 over the Arc is basically just it is cheaper. The Arc is definitely a better tool than the P4 as it has better smaller tools and a better blade.
The Arc is more modern than the Charge with it's magnetic technology and it feels smoother. It really comes down to whether a better knife blade and a more modern frame is worth an extra hundred pounds to you. The Charge is just fine but the Arc is new with a couple cool features.
Wow the magnacut blade also has thumbstuds ? Oh no I might have to spend $250 a lot sooner than I thought
LoL!
No chisel added to this ? I’ll take a surge instead .
New Subscriber here. Thank you 🙏. Beautiful informative & detailed reviews
Thanks! I appreciate that!
Ugh, I feel like they missed the mark with the Arc. They should’ve included the spring loaded plier head with the adjustable pivot, a sewing eye for the reamer to make it an awl, and then the flathead/bottle opener is missing the package opener. Regardless, I’ll be picking one of these up. Pretty awesome that you got yours super early!
Thanks!
LOL. I agree on the spring pliers and adjustable pivot, but that doesn't mean they missed the mark. They literally made the Arc EXACTLY what customers complained about with what the Free P4 did wrong.
I agree, I think it probably came down to production costs/feasibility for the mass market. adding spring-loaded pliers to the Garage 05 was probably a pretty complicated thing to scale up. but, just speculation. I wish it had spring loaded pliers for sure.
on some LMs people add neomidium magnets in such a way that they repel against each other when the pliers are open for a spring-loaded effect. might be worth exploring with the arc!
@@frogturtle That's a cool idea!
I never got any of the free series tools, but with all my multitools, except for my PowerPint, I use them alot in a L shape to get more torque on a screw. I haven't seen anyone doing that with a free series tools, but I have seen many people use other multitools in a L shape. Can this frame not handle that stress? I am not talking lagbolt stress, but sometimes I have to sink a 2-6 inch regular wood screw into a deck or like the other day I had to fix my step and I used my Rebar. Thanks for answering this question because it just occurred to me that this might be a reason why I don't get a free series tool.
I'm not sure the Leatherman double sided bit is tough enough for that. I have heard people say the Leatherman bits break easy.
Thanks for the information. Can the Arco modify the position of its knives like the Free P4 so that it can be used by left-handed people?
It should.
The serrated blade should've been kept in the Arc.
👍🏼Of all the multitools I looked at; I almost bought a P4 but I’m glad I didn’t. :)
That GOAT of yours seems to be doing good! The brass scales on mine already has a nice patina.
@@hvacbudget8600 I definitely like my goat. I’m still kind of unsure of its heavy dutyness. But I don’t really use my multitool that way unless I have to. My Gerber made it thru 6 yrs of doing concrete. But I use heavy duty tool to do heavy duty stuff. And sometimes break heavy duty tools.
Keep up the good vids Hvac!👍🏼
Awesome vid! I actually pulled the trigger on a Charge TTi, but I'm a little disappointed. I wish Leatherman used the same blade they put in the Signal (I have that) since it's the thickest blade they put on any of their tools. On the Charge it seems a little flimsy/thin given the price point. Also, the scissors could be more robust and the attachable pocket clip is a little wobbly. It's understandable given that it's detachable but I still think with the price they charge these should've been taken care of. It's still my EDC though 😎
Does that small screwdriver bit on the arc also have a flathead?
Yes.
Hmm, the micro adapter and the bit adapter were certainly a nice addition. The awl/reamer on the Arc went more towards the reamer than awl. The awl on the P4 leaned more towards being an awl with a lacing eye, but still has a bit of a reamer blade edge.
All interesting.
It is nice! I just really miss my favorite tool the 1/4" bit driver!
I wish swapping the saw in the Arc for the serrated blade on the P4 worked better.
Great video and such a nice, detailed comparison, thank you! That awl without a whole on Arc is a strange decision, makes the tool pretty useless.
Thanks!
I've been a big fan of the p4 for years. And I'd love to get an ARC. But I just cannot justify the expense. It just doesn't seem like that much of a change.
It's mostly the magnacut blade. There are individual mods you can buy for your P4 to make it better than the Arc otherwise. 1/4" bit drivers etc.
@@hvacbudget8600 : For my purposes, a bit driver isn't even a consideration. The only thing ai would chang on The P4 is the file.
Would be nice if they had an additional addon for the other side so that those extra 2 screws hole could be used.
Hmmm... interesting idea!
4: 00 - made in June
I wonder if I could put a P4 serrated blade in the scissor slot on the Arc. I don't need scissors on a large multitool. I have them on my Juice CS4 in my pocket, my Victorinox Classic on my keys, and I also have a Raptor in each first aid kit
I think so, but I haven't got into modding the Free series yet.
Yes, you can
Any play in the pliar handles or anywhere else?
It feels the same as my P4. You can wiggle the plier handles slightly at the end with the tool closed but it feels solid.
@@hvacbudget8600 dang ok. I'll be tightening that up when it comes for me.
The first thing you notice is that the part rattles and rattles when you first grab it, and the blade also rattles when it is in folded in. If you then open the multitool, the second disillusionment comes straight away: the handles of the pliers twist and move 3-5 mm towards each other when unfolded, something like this doesn't even exist with the typical 25 euro multitools from the famous online retailer Amazon. It's absolutely inexplicable to me how you can build a 300 euro tool so rickety, no comparison to the Surge, for example, which had zero, zero play in all areas and didn't rattle either. The next disillusionment is with the pouch supplied, which shows that the tool was designed absolutely carelessly, the Leatherman pouch is far too big for the ARC and it quickly disappears completely into the holster, making it difficult to pull and it looks easy It is finally off when there is still 3 cm free above the closure tab. Since it wasn't even worth the effort to customize your own bag. The Magna-Cut blade is quite small overall, of course you have to say how it performs, but what seems very dubious is that it rattles in the “offline state” and it is not unclear whether the blade does not constantly rub against the inside , I feared that. It's a shame, the tool is being returned bypassed. Don't forget the terrible bit system made of soft steel and perverse prices.
Do you know what's the garage 007 is all about tomorrow?
I hear it's a fixed blade knife.
@hvacbudget8600 yeah saw photos released today
Got it. Will keep it as a collection. Thanks for good vids!
Thank you for sharing. Is the P4 being discontinued? The Leatherman site seems to have it at the very bottom of the Multi-Tool page, and it is also not available. I know this is not very scientific, but aren't the tools near the bottom of Leatherman Multi-tool page the ones that are being d/c? The arc really seems like an upscale Wave with an awl, and I definitely prefer the can opener/cap lifter/wire stripper on the Wave+.
Short answer is I'm not sure. Long answer, if I werebto guess, Leatherman doesn't have or chooses to have, the capacity at the moment to make the Arc and the P2 and P4 all at once. Perhaps material, manpower is in shortage or Leatherman is just running a very tight ship. Someone commented that the MUT is definitely coming back into stock according to Leatherman. So I think some products at the bottom of the page are less of a priority. But this is all conjecture.
I find myself using the P4 screwdrivers as chisels although I'm not sure that's what they're made for. Any idea if that's part of their intended use and does the ARC have any tools that can be used as light duty chisels?
I don't think they have any chisels. The one flat driver is listed as a pry tool.
Still no corkscrew, a must for the UK market.
Damn drunken Brits will have to stick with victorinox or juice
Great review, thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
Great overview.
Thanks!
훌륭한 리뷰입니다
한국도 빨리 구입할수 있었으면~~
arc만 기다리고 있습니다 ~^^
That price is steep, I get it but you really don’t need anything more than S30V on a multitool IMO. It’s cool and I like the tools on the Arc though. I guess I don’t mind paying $200+ for a knife so why not right!
LoL! I know this is heresy but I still like my cheap utility knives!
I'll stick ty my P4 but thanks for the video.
Looks interesting but I would really prefer a serrated blade AND a plain blade. The full length tools and bit drivers seem really cool though. I’m at the point where if it’s a limited run then I don’t care - I actually use my tools.
No budget, what is your personal best leatherman?
And best leatherman/multitool for the price?
My favorite is still the Surge. Best budget Leatherman is probably the Leatherman Bond.
@@hvacbudget8600 Thank you for your prompt response. And thank you very much for the video
They should bury the can opener with the Fax machine and VHS
Someone's never screwed up the lift ring on the can?
Nope, not in 20 years…. must have good cans where I come from :)
After a few years of Victorinox Spirit, I deliberately decided against the Arc and for the P4 because I think that except for the large file compared to the small file on the P4 (wich works and you lose the serrated blade. ) and a few changes, are there no significant differences.
The awl works on the P4, is longer, not so conical, has a whole and the small screwdriver on top was already used on my daughter's toy. In my opinion better.
If you want to use the Leatherman bits, all you have to do is put an adapter (aliexpress) on the Phillips, then this advantage of the Arc is no longer available.
And I placed the missing microdriver in the frame under the scissors with a suitable adapter (etsy) and a magnet.
Then only the Magnacut blade remains. Since I usually carry a folder and the blade on the P4 doesn't cut any worse, this is also of no interest to me.
I think the P4 is better than its reputation and doesn't have to hide behind the arc.
Thanks for sharing! Glad the P4 is working so well for you!
Crazy price. I can buy a Surge and Super Tool 300 with that price tag. Nonetheless, it has all the tools I need.
True!
two of the best multitools money can buy
For me by far P4
Feel like Leatherman just use old suplies of miniscrew, trow out many tools and fill a gap with bit driver. For me this tool feels cheap, it must be “Free P5” but we give you fashion new steel and cool name, so pay now more. And of course problem of all multitool - they don’t solve all your needs.
So MX Clip or Arc? Which would you buy?
Probably the Arc only because I like modular options and you can take it apart. The MX Clip probably may be better quality.
I love my Victorinox Spirit X… I don’t have the MX Clip and really miss a one hand opening knife. Knowing me, maybe I’ll end up getting both. Ha! Wife would be like what?!? Why?!?
cool❤❤❤
Well since they messed up big time with the arc cutters, I'll not be buying that till they fix it
Ok, it's a multitool. It has a slightly polished appearance, better blade steel, but I still don't see a good price-quality ratio. I think it will serve more for EDC Instagram pictures than people will use it for work (with some exceptions)
When the majority of magnacut pocket knives are more than this.....I'd have to disagree with you there.
Both the p2 and P4 are currently unavailable on leatherman.
Really! Wow!
Of course the Free P4 is no longer in production on Leatherman’s site.
I was surprised to hear that. I think Leatherman must be facing material shortages.
I found mine on bladehq
Is ‘Made in the USA’ considered a special quality mark like ‘Made in Germany’? From what I’ve seen, some Chinese products in the tool sector are superior to German ones.
There are so few Made in USA multi tools it is seen as fairly special to many people.
ARC is better but double the price against P4 because of the magnacut blade
REI killed the page. I wonder when the public release is intended
I hope it's soon!
On their siteYou can customize the arc but i dont want to spend $300 for it
Arc, innovadora pero pierde la hoja perlada y su costo es extremadamente alto.
Si letherman agregara un punzón a la wave, realmente crearían la multiherramienta Perfecta en funciones y precio.
Gracias por tus videos.
Un saludo
It is expensive! Thanks for watching!
Wife gets me a new leatherman for Christmas every year. Have the tti bought twice gave one away to son ,wave,wave+ ,p4 free, wingman and now this year arc my favorite was the p4 free love the magnets but major draw back was no bit driver. So I used the tti mainly daily. The tti will definitely get replaced by the arc for sure. I’d say it is the best in my opinion although I did use the gut hook on the tti a lot. Always carry the ratchet driver and a stream light flashlight on sheath. I easily have 100k in tools as I am a technician and my leathermans are my top tools.
That's awesome you got the Arc!
Way too expensive to me. At that price I expect it to be a fully modular took and come with all the extra parts and bits I could ever want. In the end I don't think I would want to carry a tool that expensive around and risk losing it.
That is an issue with me, at least to use it as a work tool.
Wow brother where did you find this beautiful multi tool so soon and how much did it cost?? And do you recommend it to me??
It's very nice, $229. It was an accidental limited release from REI.
@@hvacbudget8600 so can i still purchase it right now?? Or do i have to wait??
Just a P4 with less shit to play with, good for those doesn't have P4, not really a have-to-get for existing P4 users.
Very nice but neither because that's way outside of my price range.
It is pricy!
As is arc is a fair price. Easily increased work efficiency. Good quality tool set. Would I mod it? Most definitely. But as it stands ,it would be a welcome companion for pretty much all. What's it missing? The t-shank, quarter inch driver, better scissors. Yes you can wear out the saw and file, these need to be easily replaceable.
Good points
Wasn't the Arc supposed to be 2mm thicker than the P4 ? They look identical in thickness. The unnecessarily short scissors not taking full advantage of the extra space is a missed opportunity and the price, heavens !!! At that price, it needs to be a bigger upgrade from the P4. Feeding my family with Biden's inflation of food prices due to Federal overspending and $Billions to Ukraine, the Arc is unaffordable. Many voted for Biden KNOWING he has dementia, was incompetent, AND was a crook, and voted for him anyway. Elections have consequences.
It seems very close to the P4 if not identical in frame size.
the short scissors are great for snapping off zip ties because you do get more force at the tip. honestly the length is perfectly fine for a multitool.
Seems expensive for what you get compared
None of them Leatherman Wave Plus
My two complaints about the P4 were the pocket clip location (affects how you open it after pulling from pocket) and lack of bit driver. ARC fixes both of these *and* gives me a better blade, a full size file and a micro-screwdriver. #winning. *EDIT* actually no, they haven't moved the clip to the opposite end, just the opposite side. That won't make any difference for me.
About the only improvements I could think to make would be a half-serrated blade or an additional full-serrated (hard to do and maintain size), and make the file the same as the swappable extension on the surge that will take a file or any other attachment with the same standardised shank. This would solve the serrated ask at the same time.
It seems ARC isn't yet available at retail (bladehq/knifecentre). Any ideas when it will go on sale?
*EDIT* ARC's awl is sub-optimal due to the lack of a hole. While I've never found myself needing to "sew with it in anger", the lack of a hole seems a weird omission.
Reddit says 10-17-23 as the release date but who knows. I have heard other rumors as well. I think someone mentioned it would be out Monday. The Arc definitely addresses issues with the previous Free series.
The lack of hole on the awl is SUPER strange, every awl in the past has had a hole, and if nothing else it's been a lifesaver in the few times it is needed.
Das erste was auffällt ist, dass das Teil schon beim ersten Angreifen scheppert und klappert, auch die Klinge im Ruhezustand scheppert. Öffnet man dann das Multitool kommt gleich die zweite Ernüchterung, die Griffe der Zange verwinden und verschieben sich im ausgeklappten Zustand um 3-5 mm zueinander, so etwas gibt es nicht einmal bei den typischen 25 Euro Multitools vom berühmten Onlinehändler Amazon. Ist für mich absolut unerklärlich wie man ein 300 Euro Tool so klapprig bauen kann, kein Vergleich zB zum Surge, der in allen Bereichen null,null spiel aufwiest und auch nicht scheppert. Die nächste Ernüchterung wartet beim mitgelieferten Pouch, daran erkennt man, dass das Tool absolut lieblos gestaltet wurde, das Leatherman-Pouch ist viel zu groß für den ARC und dieser verschwindet fast vollständig im Holster, er ist dadurch schwer zu ziehen und es sieht einfach elendig aus, wenn oberhalb zur Verschluss-Lasche noch 3 cm frei bleibt. L hat es nicht einmal der Mühe wert gefunden, eine eigne Tasche anzupassen. Die Magna-Cut-Klinge ist insgesamt recht klein, wie sich schlägt muss man natürlich sagen, was aber sehr dubios erscheint ist, dass sie im "offline-Zustand" scheppert und es nicht unklar ist, ob die Klinge nicht ständig an der Innenseite reibt, ich befürchte das. Schade, das Tool geht umgehend retour. Nicht vergessen darf man auch das Grotten-schlechte Bit-System aus weichem Stahl und perversen Preisen.
The arc is not worth 100 extra dollars. It’s a little ass piece of CPM Magnacut. Probably adds 20 bucks in production price
The damn free series is confusing to me. I talk so much crap about it and yet i have both the p2 and p4 which i carry either one DAILY. Its like i hate it but i also like it? Then the arc comes out and im talking even more shit about this one mainly because of the price! Bought one today and will most likely carry it daily 😒. Damn free series.....
@@OutCast4Ever91 They are great tools that at least p2 and p4 could have used a better toolset. The Arc has a great toolset but crazy price! Definitely a mix of good and not great but overall pretty fantastic tools like you said!
P4 or Arc ? Surge 😂
Neither. Get the Wave.
Still has that uncomfortable metal nub that sticks out near the bottom of the handle when in pliers mode like the P4 does. Hard Pass.
Also do they even mention an HRC range for the Magnacut blade?
Arc is too pricey
i really dont like the free platform
See I call this BS comparison.
Limited run compared to one I can go and buy. If everyone can pick between the 2 as a choice I would have enjoyed this review. Jealous abit maybe. But reviewing these is apples to orange since you can buy one and not the other!!
The Leatherman Arc is to be released to everyone within about a month from what I've heard. This is not a Garage item.
@@hvacbudget8600 garge#5 was the Arc, I tried to get it. Unless enough complaints and there adding into the rotation.minus the spring action pliers??
no tradesman will own this, only collectors, and urban edc guys
The magnets are the problem with shavings, I'd guess. I figured most would prefer the good Ole Surge.
i own the P2 and P4, currently waiting on a arc. I've been using the P4 at work for years. everything from fixing water main to doing electrical work. The P4 worked just fine. The only issue is metal shavings. I threw it on a bench once with shavings and they stuck onto the tool pretty good. I'm not around metal shavings very often though, so it's not a problem. The one handed opening is very handy.
ARC the P4 is shite ….
I always carry my p4 in my pocket everywhere