All design goes back to the bean counters. You can only engineer with the budget you get. Design stops when bean counters say it does. Then you move on to production.
The Rev is only $50, what do you expect from their cheapest full sized multitool? If you don't get the absolute cheapest model they sell you won't get the cheap crap that they sell. I have a Free P4 and that thing is amazing.
I have a rev and it has done well for me honestly. Stopped a boat from sinking, fixed a windshield wiper in downpour on a road trip, pulled hooks out of fingers. For 40 dollars it’s really not bad and a whole lot better than not having it.
Thank you for taking the hit for us AvE. Haven’t owned a Leatherman in years since losing it, but it was a beast. I replaced it with a Gerber tool 12 years ago and she still runs strong. It’s fucked when you need a tool to tighten/fix the multi-tool right out the box. Keep your balls in a sack🤙🏼
@@dbratboy92 thats the MP600. ive had one for a few months and its been great. the knifeless one has an abrasive blade which is EXTREMELY useful even when you have a full handtool kit at the ready.
@@sabiti5428 yea I have the snap on version still made by Gerber but beefier pliers and higher price tag but even in the shop with all my tools I pull it out constantly. Great tool. Snap on part # SMT97R. I’ve had it a few years
Oh and fun fact. Leatherman, Gerber, KAI / Kershaw, Benchmade, CRKT, and a ton of other knife brands are all based within like 2 zip codes down in Oregon.
@@toomanymarys7355 Pendleton is still pretty good imo. Not a fan of Tillamook Cheese. And Nike is CCP cuck garbage. Pendleton is really the only thing I can think of atm to BIRG. The other ones I CORF.
@@Wayoutthere for sure! I think the sidekick is good, but when compared to the others I mentioned it’s not as tough. I carry the sidekick when I travel for work so I’m not too afraid of losing it.
The Rev is the cheapest full sized multi tool they sell, the Micra and Squirt almost costs the same and they are like half the size. It's almost like their cheapest model (cost) is also their cheapest model (quality) I carry a Free P4, it costs 3 times more than a Rev, and it shows.
I have a sidekick and think its decent for the price, not bad tool selection if you realize it’s 1/3 the price of the free p4 & half that of the wave. It kills every Gerber in that price category.
@@rebellaxbro Sidekick is $70 msrp and P4 is $150 msrp, 1/2 the price. But I also paid $100 for my P4, looking at a Sidekick and realizing you could have spent $30 more
I have had one for a long time I daily carry and buy them as gifts regularly, I think the quality on them has stayed ok, it's the cheaper ones that are apparently garbage
Got a wingman and it's crap compared to my old blast. Even though I've absolutely beaten the wheels off of it broken 3 tools on it from giving her far too many beans..
@@Jihadbearzwithgunz Same. Broke the small flathead on it, then the terrible combo can/bottle opener that cuts bottle caps in half, and when I only had tools I rarely use left I went ahead and got a Victorinox SAK, one with pliers, and I don't think I'll ever go back to a Leatherman. The tools just aren't very well thought out on most models.
I bought my first Leatherman back in '97, or '98... they had an accessory you could buy for using Hex Bits that fit between the handles in the closed position, you could use it straight out the end, or slide a spring-loaded collar and flip it 90* to use at a right angle. Brilliant design, worked great, I took a an 8" strip of rubber, punched paired up holes to securely hold a variety of bits & drivers. Yes, fond memories where that setup saved the day!
I was just sober enough to find the base model for that NASA one. Convinced myself I could CNC some FR4 with whatever logo and have something similar. Sold. .. now If I can get the CNC put back together before I misplace the damn thing I'll be happy.
I had a wave I used it to death Leatherman sent out a replaced it. It was a solid knife not as nice as the more expensive charge design but a good one for sure.
@@rotorhead5826 I broke mine without too much effort, I guess it was a defect. Anyways, Leatherman replaced it, no question asked, no problem with the new one.
I've been carrying that cheaper one since Christmas and I've loved it. I use it over my Rebar. For everyday work she gets the job done. For 1/3 to 1/4 of the price, its a great option for those who want to get into multitools but don't want to make the full plunge.
I've watched Peg arc out his Leatherman Wave on a truck starter solenoid no less than a thousand times and it still hasn't welded shut. Maybe try that one.
These used to sell for $20, and they were probably the best multitool at that price. But at that price, the only competition is the flimsy Gerber Dime and a whole host of craptacular no-name junk. Alright for occasional use, but it'll break if you use it regularly. The backsprings on the slipjoint tools crack off like hangnails, and since they're formed from the same sheet metal as the handles, they can't be replaced. I think it's been discontinued now, but by the end of its run they were charging $40 for them, absolute rip-off
I have a generic one from Menards that is pretty great because its lanyard "ring" will snap down on the other half of the handle. Locked. At the jaw end there is a 3/8 drive adapter you can lock in. Match this up with one of those all-in-one sockets and you actually have a pretty decent multi-tool.
I have gerber dime as complement when I'm out in the Bush and around the office, nifty little tool but not a hard worker. I have a knife proper for that
I have never owned a Leatherman, but I have had the many iterations of the blunt nose Gerber 600 for going on three decades now. The big deal about the Gerber for me is that I can unholster, deploy, use, un-deploy, and holster all with one hand. In the kind of work I do, that's terribly important.
I've got original PST and Supertool, Rebar, Wave, new supertool, Micra, Squirt and a bunch of others, every single one I can unholster, open, use and close back one handed in the dark with gloves on.. not really a huge issue... I mean they're not spring loaded things that fly open at the press of a button but I manage...
After 2 weeks of fairly intense looking, on the back of my brother having the wave, it was the one to beat. I eventually settled on the surge, you don't need to open the handle to use the tools like other utility tools, being larger, having heavier pliers with changeable cutters, removable file/diamond hone (you can sharpen the knife blade and you can replace it with a saw blade and you can get much longer jigsaw blades that fit. It has been a great choice for the extra coin, I wear it every day and use it most days.
I bought a Leatherman surge years ago. I am extremely happy with it after getting a lot of good use out of it. I would still be using it but these days I usually have a full set of tools within easy reach.
Years ago I was given a Leatherman (I guess it was the PST model) and it was FINE. The handles cut into your hand when you used the pliers, the pick and screwdriver tips were so hard that they shattered with moderate geek use. I didn't find out about the warranty until replacement parts weren't available. And then I went to see Cirque du Soleil. It shouldn't have been a problem. I've gone to see the Cirque many many times. But this time it was at the new "single quote" arena in Edmonton, and I guess a "different" clientele watches pro hockey, because security wands me down (wat?) and detects my Leatherman. "No weapons allowed". No, no, this is a tool, not a weapon. "Nope, it's a knife. You could hurt someone." With a pair of pliers? "You'll have to leave and put it in your car and miss the first half of the show or surrender it now" Surrender a pair of pliers with a crap screwdriver attached because I could hurt someone? FINE. So I lost my Leatherman with the very worn leather pouch. I'm sure that some rent-a-cop at the single quote has a really FINE multitool now. Perk of the job I suppose. It got replaced with a Wave+. Much better tool, doesn't cut into your hands, although the stupid popsicle stick screwdriver thing sucks. And the nylon pouch is a disappointment too. Oh well, some day the Cirque will come back and I'll have my Wave in my bag and some Edmonton City Police reject will become its new owner.
The "dew claw trimmer" is for cutting into that kind of plastic packaging that likes to cut you. I have one on a Gerber Dime (which is more for looking at than using as well)
That thing puts to shame the "Snap-on" one I got at Costco in a blister pack along with the world's dimmest flashlight and a couple of half decent 1" ratchet straps. I knew they would be cheap tools, I paid a cheap price but I was shocked how cheap they were considering the brand name that was on them. We are talking Power Fister cheap, not even Pro-Point.
A lot of tool manufacturers offer cheap imitations of their flagship tools. I think it's a shitty practice but it's practically a different market. The higher end leathermans are surprisingly skookum.
@@CeeKayz0rz I wasn't after snap-on products, I was after ratchet straps. They just happened to be the best option with the thought that I would get a half decent tool and light to toss in the glovebox for just a bit more than straps alone.
First I got a Wingman, cheap stuff, never regretted I lost it though some people love it. Then bought a Wave as a daily carry and never looked back. Sturdy as hell, does what it says on the thin.
I mean a shitty tool is sometimes better than no tool, but there's so many better alternatives, Bond, Rebar, you can even get a PST, all way better quality tools... If you ever break or misplace your Wave, try a Rebar! its leagues above the Wingman/Rev at almost the same pricepoint..
Love my wave, especially with the flat bit kit it's like having a decent toolbox with you at all times and it hardly takes up any space! The Sidekick is good to
I like my Rev, you just have to look at the use case. It's not a shop tool, it's an office tool. The package opener (actually pretty useful for opening boxes if you're prone to slicing up the contents with a knife) is a dead giveaway. A single mounting point for the clip is plenty when it will spend the majority of the time either in a stationary pocket (i.e. seated) or on a desk (where mine lives). The inner tools lock up well enough for light use (although admittedly the driver side on mine leans more towards retention than locking) and the blade on mine has no play whatsoever. It's definitely not meant for 91 kg gorillas, but it's also the cheapest full size multitool in their lineup by a fair margin. Maybe the tooling has worn down since I got mine, but for me it has served well in its designated space.
Someone in their marketing team decided that the potential hit to the brand name was worth the risk to gather a new market. When the brand is associated with heavy duty, that can be a tricky thing to do. I'm not disagreeing with you, just trying to interpret where people are coming from.
That is a fair point, but personally I've never associated Leatherman with heavy duty. I also have a 300 that has lived in the garage/truck/RV for over 2 decades. I think the reason it has survived my normal pattern of tool abuse for so long is that when I need to do something "heavy duty" I spend the extra 30 seconds to grab the proper tool. Proper Leatherman tools may be tougher than trade show handout knockoffs, but they are still just a collection of small bits of steel in a stamped box. My main point is recognizing the limits or your tools. Even within the Leatherman lineup, I don't think anyone would use a Squirt to try to put chains on a tractor. If your multitool comes with a package opener, expect to use it in a situation where you might be opening packages. I'm not saying that our dear Uncle Bumblefuck is unjustified in his dislike, just that his final judgement may be colored by misplaced hopes and expectations.
@Johnny TheTrailerSlayer as I said, sometimes a boxcutter or knife can go too deep, especially if the box has no cardboard between the tape and the contents. Never had to sharpen it or clean it other than removing a stray bit of tape. I use the pliers and screwdrivers to tighten camera fittings in addition to working on a multitude of small indoor projects. And I just don't like Bic pens.
You really try hard to justify your cheapness and the merit of the junk you bought. Lol. The sintered metal jaws are enough to immediately pass on this. I wonder how much this piece of junk cost to manufacture.
HI Ave, fellow Canuck, I have owned a REV for about 6 years, it does what I want and has stood up well, price was important since I tend to lose these things. I have managed to break the blade right at the cutout twice while doing stupid things like using the blade to pry on things. Leatherman has replaced the tool both times at no cost other than shipping. The Rev is small, light, and rides in it's pouch on my hip all the time. I still like your review, yes at the price point I paid it isn't the greatest but it works and the company is great. I am a handy man and the REV is my go to tool when the toolbox is out of reach. Thanks for the video's. Kevin
Found an old style Leatherman in the woods a few months after receiving one of these as a gift. Now I show the gift the respect it deserves by keeping it in near pristine condition.
The rebar is the best compromise between weight and features (for me anyway) in the Leatherman family of tools. I am not dressed without it on my belt. The best sheath also holds a mini Maglight.
I developed this theory that the supertool and rebar are for people who do actual field work and the charge and surge are for "posers", for lack of a better turm, who need to tighten thier glasses from time to time.
I have and use the rebar everyday. I did break the small flat bit (which loosened up everything in that handle)and I got a replacement rebar a week and a half later. The warranty is fantastic. And that phillips is fantastic! It seems to fit everything perfectly. Love it and might spring for a better model after the 25 year warranty is up. Probably be dead first though…
I’ve accumulated quite a few Leatherman tools over the years, mostly acquired cheap at pawn shops. The Surge & Wave+ have never disappointed, but most of the more recent offerings show that profits are becoming the primary focus.
The Wave is an awesome tool, that pinch point when using the pliers damn near kills it for me though, I've done it twice at least and it's not fun. My daily has been the OHT for a few years now, very nice for ladder work
I like the Charge Ti in Black Oxide, I’m pretty sure that was the one. It grew legs years ago. It didn’t have Scissors so I don’t think it was the Charge TTi (the newest version is Charge+ TTi I guess.) Edit: The Squirt P4 (I think) on my Keys has been a solid tool for the last 15 years or so.
I have a really nice snapon branded gerber and it’s pretty nice. Had it a few years. Guaranteed on the truck, and has one hand opening feature. That makes it pretty handy. It also avoids the classic leather man problem of the tool trying to fold up if you drove the pliers open instead of closed as they slide out and lock.
my Rev has served me well these past 8 years. multiple jobs, hitchhiking through the country, living out of my truck. no rust, blade sharpens well, all the tools are useful, wire cutter still cuts, no regrets here
I carry and "USE" the Free P4 . Love the one hand operation and all tools lock, replaceable wire cutter blades. The cost is a little pricey but it's Leatherman's Flagship USA. Never leave home without it. Do yourself a favor and buy it and you'll never look at another again. Great USA product!!
I was wanting one but my skeletool was fine enough for me and couldn't justify it. So naturally, I ended up losing it in a drop ceiling - genuinely, I did lose it - and boom! Got a P4 the next morning and it is a beauty.
"The cost is a little pricey" yeah for less you could get a wave + with more features and still have money left over and also have a tool that its leathermans flagship tool that has been proven to be reliable and very capable. Besides why would i need a tool thats more expensive then a wave has 4 flathead screwdrivers, a worthless file that came from the wingman, and an "Awl" that barely functions properly as one and all for the asking price of 150$ with tools that look like they came from their budget line tools the wingman, and sidekick sounds like a great product oh and also for more i could get a charge with a better blade steel and the same tool compliments as a wave.
I carried a rev for years and loved it. It's light and with some use, breaks in nice and smooth. No offense, but that rev is domestically made and cost $30. That limited edition nasa g10 surge goes for $750. I think the smart purchase is to buy the rev and save $720. These days I carry a wave. 420 stainless is fine - S30V is less tough and way too expensive.
420 hc is a great working steel. In my experience it behaves very similarly to be 1075, just less rusty. I've had a few different supersteels & their edge retention is great until they chip & or they need a significant sharpening. I've never understood the disdain for it from the blade community as I've found it to be among the most user friendly.
My first multi tool was a Vinylman from the flea market. It did sorta replace the 6 way screwdriver, pair of pliers and box cutter I kept in my jacket pocket. After I could no longer peen the rivets to work anymore I broke down and got a Gerber tool. I picked it over the leatherman because I could open it one handed and was rounded over where you grip it. I have had one on me over 30 years now. The time I dont have it with me anymore is when riding horses ( I came off once and landed on it, took a while to get over that) I made a pocket in my saddlebag for it.
As far as I know Leatherman discontinued their best tool. It’s called The Crunch. It had an actual vise grip, locking pliers vs those crappy needle nose type. Why they discontinued The Crunch is mind boggling. They were the only usable Leatherman I’ve ever had.
I carry an old Leatherman PST in my bag. it's seen some shit, despite its shortcomings of being a 'multitool'. but, it's been in the family and your video on the NASA one made me realize I'm going to get it stolen by TSA one day. So I bought the Leatherman Bond just a couple days ago. 10 dollars more than your Rev there (in the states), and it looks way better. not "great", but better. properly deburred and not a lot of weeble, the pliers teeth still look molded in, not cut. oh well. Also, it's more 'traditional' in styling which is what I was going for. I do have a Victorionox which blows its socks off, but that was also a good bit more expensive. Probably worth from a buy-once perspective.
One thing I have enjoyed about them in Australia was the lifetime guarantee, now 25 yrs maybe. No proof of purchase required, just send her in and get back a new one because they won’t bother repairing older models. I upgraded two models this way and it was legit as both broke a component without undue stress. Got me to thinking, if you keep a look out for broken ones thrown away or in an op shop grab them, send them away to Leatherman for repair and get a newbie.
I still have my original PST as well. Those things are basically indestructible. Not as comfortable in bare hands as the newer models, but they won't let you down.
I met the guy that invented the Leatherman many years ago. The line crew I was on parked our equipment on his property for a few days while we were installing fiber in the area. Nice guy. If you are wondering, no he didn't have a mansion surrounded by a bunch of super cars. His house is "unique" but in a good way on some beautiful property out in the country in the middle of nowhere.
That Rev is perfect for leaving in the wife’s green lawn toy, that way when your a mile from the shop you’ll have something to attempt to make a repair with and get right proper pissed throwing the tool as far into the bush as possible given the mittens, now the true value is shown in that having already been pissed off and got that over with you can return from the warm tool stash with a helper in hand!
I bought a £19 multitool from Germany and it has lasted me 5 years, my friend got this exact type of leatherman and i managed to cut through his file with the side cutters on my knife without major damage. The only issue ive had is that the bolts tend to loosen which is easily fixed with threadlocker Edit : mil-tec black cobra was the brand
I've got a Leatherman Crunch, found it in a car out at Pick N Pull one day. Greatest multitool I've ever had. Vise grips in a multitool package make for one hell of a skookum choocher.
I have the really nice Ti Surge(?) and a Sidekick. Picked up the Rev on the company dime - junk. So many little things they didn’t do, like the cutout for the knife deploy up top so you can one hand it in the dark. Sidekick is my fav, love the spring action on the pliers. Not too expensive, can handle the abuse.
The original leatherman had a built in safety feature. The plier handles were incredibly uncomfortable, which kept you from squeezing to hard and damaging the plier jaws. That said, I wish they still made the original model.
The cheap ones might be cheap but my wingman lasted me 13 years and is still in perfect working order. I only just recently upgraded to the free p4 because absolutely everything is accessible with one hand. Highly recommend. Both of ‘em.
If the wingman lasted you 13 years you're not using it wrongly enough.. I've broken every kind of Leatherman I've touched exept the Rebar and the ST300, both will break too, just give me some time...
As my brother likes to say, "Leatherman, the wrong tool for every job." Having said that, I've been buying them since the earlier 90's. Still have an OG or two.
My Leatherman PST that I've had since 1997 finally died a couple months ago and I picked up a Free P2 as the replacement. Overall I'm pleased with the Free series and their one-hand operation, I hope you'll give one a try eventually. It actually works well with gloves... within reason.
When my wave (1st generation best generation) decided to take up life on the road while I road my motorcycle home from work I ended up getting a charge to replace it in almost immediately got a wingman for day to day wear for opening boxes and trimming nails maybe one day opening a can the charge is with the pants for things that need a quick tool but not quite the right tool. Essentially a dress leatherman and a work leatherman
When it comes to full size ones I have a wave and a charge tti, got the second one when I lost the first one. Then uhhh it showed up again after about a year when cleaning out some pieces of cardboard boxes that I presumably cut with that same wave. Both are holding up just fine and one lives in my backpack now, has helped both me and some others a few times with minor issues on the bicycle and what not (removing a broken mudguard at the front wheel that got in the way, tightening a few things, etc). The small leatherman squirt PS4 and medium sized juice XE6 are decent too (for their size and some odd small things). The juice fits in jeans pockets good enough at all times and the tiny squirt does the job in shorts with smaller pockets for summer weather without getting in the way. Not something you'd do something big with but pliers, tiny scissors and a tiny knife comes in handy more often than I expected. Mostly to open boxes and maybe tighten the occasional loose screw though in everyday life at home and the office when working in the before covid times. I'm very disappointed to see that the demonstrated model in this video exist, had seen the cheaper models around at times on various websites but never realised at least some of those will be this crappy! Good to know, not something I'll ever buy for myself or as a gift unless I can preferably inspect them in person first or at least take the time to do research on the particular model.
I used one of the revs for a while. I nicked the cutters on some high tension wire, and the clip broke off in a motorcycle accident. Yeah, the drivers and all don't lock and they bit me a few times. I have a leatherman signal now and I pretty well like it. Replaceable cutters are a must.
I found a Leatherman Rev + Style CS double pack at a secondhand reseller still in the box for just $20. I really do like it, even if it is one of the cheapo Leatherman multitools. For what I paid for mine, I'd say it was worth it. I everyday carry my Rev, and the Style CS I put on my car keychain, since it's small and has a built in carabiner.
As a young guy in his early 20s I had a Rev, for me it’s was fine all things considering. At least for broadcast engineering, a lot of electronics, among other things. The nice thing about the rev that I will say is that the tip of the cast jaws is the perfect size for a Robertson! And that larger cutting radius at the base off the jaw is better suited as a stripper then a cutter Now i’m getting into my late 20s I have a curl, I got it for free, and that’s quite alright, they added a back spring to the tools, not a lock mind you, and the jaws are still center Ed powder, but they ground it down this time, sort of. Honestly the cutters are only good for solid core BIX pairs or cat6 networking.
@@justme4539 Actually, once you figure them out you can open them very easily and safely without tools. Just fold one end of it a few times and crease it then you can just tear it open.
I've had one of these for years after O found it in a field. I just have it in the house or take it with me on vacations for occasional light use. E.g. opening letters or cans, light pliar use. Its great for that and I love it. However I wouldnt dare take it to the shed. It would die in 15 minutes.
This is the one I travel with or go to public events with so if customs or security take it from me I'm not real upset. My Super Tool is around $100, I would be upset loosing it to a rentacop.
Only Leatherman I have is the Rebar, I carry it all the time and I love it. Haven't needed to replace the side cutter blades yet but I do love that they are replaceable.
I got the Signal a couple of years ago and I just noticed that sharp edge on the blade thumb hold whatsit. It also has the sintered pliers, but with the replaceable cutting blades and I'd say is better put together than the Rev based on the video. Leatherman do have the Rev listed on their site, for 50 of Uncle Sam's finest greenbacks, it looks identical to the version from the Homeless Despot...
I have the same one. Paid $130 for it, for that price it better be pretty good. I've had mine for about 5 yrs, still going strong, but the straight part of the blades starting to get a bit dull, the serrated part is still sharp as a razor blade though.
I have the Free P4 and I really do like it especially because of the one handed opening mechanism, but it has that same "worse than useless" tiny ruler thing and I have not used it once.
It's such perfect marketing. When I saw the thumbnail and when he was handling it at first I thought it didn't look so bad. Enough that I might buy it. And then of course on any closer inspection (only possible once you've bought the thing) it reveals itself to be the pristine work of art it truly is.
I managed to break my Gerber Suspension after twelve years of use (got it cheap, US$12 at an Ace Hardware) so my wife found me a Gerber Diesel "Multi-plier" which I haven't broken. Yet. Real solid tools IME from Gerber. Love the positive lock and I'll never own another multi with grips with open gaps on the outside when opened. Give me smooth grips or piss off.
I carry a leatherman wingman, it's never the best tool but, it's the one that's always in my pocket. I mainly use it to get chip bird nests off lathe tools.
A few years ago. I got a couple of multitools from the petrol station for £1. It's got a flat and pozi screwdriver A knife that's sharp enough to cut your fingers and pliars. I keep one in my van for emergencies. It's been great. The other one I keep in my quiver. It's been very handy for removing arrows out of boss stands when people miss, cutting serving material etc.
I have a whole box of leathermans. I bought a rev just to try out and i have to agree with AvE on this one. The worst part for me was the blades edge retention as well as the breaking both screwdriver blades with just regular use. I have a wave+ as i type this and often carry a wingman but its not much better than the REV.
I love my old Wave and use it daily. I had broken a driver, worn out the file and lost the screwdriver bit. I sent it in and they completely rebuilt it gratis. Not bad for a roadside find🙂
What's the current turnaround time nowadays? I have Charge TTi I sent in because the wire cutters had so much gap to them that it would only mash thin wires instead of cut them, and it took over a month to get back. I still couldn't cut wire as easily as I could with the Gerber Suspension NXT, which has an anvil cutter instead of the bypass, and worked perfectly in comparison. I ended up shimming the cutting edges to get the clearance close enough to work.
@@wingerrrrrrrrr it seems like it was about 3 weeks. They replaced my original forged cutters with the newer replaceable blades that were in the video. I have used them and haven't had complaints. Like the man says, if a tool does everything it won't do anything great.
About 15 years ago, my dad picked up a bag of Leatherman Micros at a TSA auction. There was about 10 Micro and one Supertool. He's down to 4 Micros now; all others having been returned to the TSA via airport security checkpoints. They really don't make 'em like they use to; fortunately he's retired and doesn't fly anymore.
I’ve had probably a half dozen leathermans over the years and I’ve layed them all to rest with the exception of the original that I’ve had for probably 20 years or better. The needle nose is a little shorter than it started and the knife blade is smaller due to a thousand sharpenings, but still I prefer my old one to the new yunk they got these days.
I'm happy with my Wingman (same product line as the rev) and it's great for the 26$ I believe I paid. I know it's not super premium but it does it's job and back when I bought it I didn't want to spend the 100$ on a wave
I've had the Leatherman Rev for 3-4 years now and its been great for me. Mine doesn't seem as cheaply made as yours, all my fasteners still tight as the day I got it, all my tools lock in place, pliers bite good on most things. The only thing that I really dont like is if you try to twist with the pliers its pretty chincy and will shift side to side. Definitely not firm enough for heavy duty plier use but for casual use works perfect.
Had a supertool, great until I lost it. Now have had a surge for 15 years, replaced the pliers nose once in that time. Their cheaper range though, genuine shit! At least they still honour the lifelong warranty for when you inevitably break them though!
@@Shep01 I still have the original patent pending wave from 98. It's a great multi tool. Having survived 10 years of daily use and 14 years of occasional use it's still trucking along.
I have to disagree with you on this one. I bought a rev when I forgot my knife on the way to a camping trip. It's honestly my favorite multi tool I've owned. It's about the size of a regular pocket knife so it's lite and compact. Cheap so I don't worry about losing or breaking it. And it's gotten me through a lot of problems. I've been carrying one for several years now. Only thing I've broken on it was the tip of the file.
Agreed. I'm carrying mine as we speak. I bought it at Tractor Supply one day (mainly because I saw it had a pocket clip) and carry it often, mainly at work. I'm in maintenance and it gets the job done.
@@ronaldstewart6332 or just their work environment. Depending on where you work/play, the odds of losing tools is pretty significant. It's nice to have a beater for the outside world so you can keep the good tools safe in the shop 😂
@@ronaldstewart6332 We camp often in sand dune and desert areas where you need a metal detector to find a dropped pocket knife on a windy day… Friend’s kid earned $20 from a stranger exactly that way. Family heirloom, crashed the night before and lost the knife. None of our out and about tools are expensive unless they’re large enough to not immediately get buried. Dropped a socket? Dune treasure now….
That makes me afraid of how far Gerber has probably fallen as well. I loved my Leatherman once I got it broken in, but the slide out pliers on the Gerber were far better for one handed use. Interesting review!
@@zachv1942 Gerber also makes crap. If you go with like the classic 600 you'll be okay. Leatherman kind of went downhill after the Wave. Once the accountants set in, they might as well shut the doors.
My 20+ year old Leatherman Supertool has exactly the same construction for the pliers. The only difference is that surfaces have been cleaned up on a linisher, so its nothing new for Leatherman. They have always worked well too.
The supertool has a much better finish on the pliers, PST too (witch is closer to the size and pricepoint) I've broken a few of both. Carbide cutting inserts are soo nice when you actually use them for other than soft copper wire.... I've done full force with both hands to cut nails and stuff and there's not a scratch on the inserts...
I got a Leatherman wingman at a pawn shop for 50¢ couldn't beat the price. It was just covered in soda. Cleaned it up and it was like new. I've carried a Leatherman core for about 10 years then went to the surge. Love it
The last decade or so Leatherman prices have shot up. Almost every overseas made model has been decent to junky. The domestically produced lines have still been good but, again, prices have shot up. I used to buy Leathermans and Gerbers (the few models that are not trash) as gifts for friends, family, and colleagues. Back then a Wave or Sidekick was $30-$40. Those days are long behind us.
I happened to score a usa made gerber for about $35 off bezos’ wonderland ages ago. Has been a fantastic tool for me and everything locks. Can deploy with 1 hand too!
I used to carry a Leatherman on my hip to work, but I found myself using it more often than I should, just to save me trips back to the truck for the right tool. Into the fuckit-bucket it went, and I feel better about my work
Personally I've always preferred the SOG power locks over any of the Leatherman tools most of what I use them for is the pliers and they have the best that I've found so far
I had two of those Leathermans. I lost them both multiple times. But whenever I managed to keep them around they worked well for me. Sharpest knife in my truck every time despite never sharpening it. In fact, once I was driving with a trailer and a side panel made of sheet metal came loose and tore up one of the tires. The only way to get the spare on and ride off was to cut the panel in half. I didn't have any tools to cut sheet metal in the truck but I had that Leatherman. Cut through that sheet metal about a quarter inch at a time with the snips at the base of the pliers. When I was done the Leatherman was in just as good of a condition as when I started. Sorry your experience differed. Edit: By the way the reason the clip is "loose" is that screw is a hinge. If it's tightened down more it makes the tool harder to open. That's why the clip has a retainer to keep it from rotating.
Back about 20 years ago I got my dad a Leatherman Sideclip. He absolutely loved it, he kept it on him and used it daily for 5-7 years or so till it broke. He sent it in to be repaired, they instead sent him back some cheap POS Blast. He tossed it in a drawer and I bought him a Gerber. Gerber & Schrade multitools have been my multitools of choice for over a decade.
8 years and I've nearly destroyed my Leatherman Wave. 8 years because I cut some TIG wire with it in welding school and messed up the side cutters. It's a bitch to open up now so it's become emergency use only.
This reminds me of the Leatherman wingman only a straight edge vs serrated and no scissors on the Rev. I feel the way you do about the Rev with my wingman so it stays in my truck as my back up/emergency tool.
Conceived by a consultant, and designed by an accountant
Hey, it's designed by a CEO
Excellent comment. I give you several points.
Great comment but it was a copy of something great, and outsourced to the lowest bidder lol
All design goes back to the bean counters. You can only engineer with the budget you get.
Design stops when bean counters say it does. Then you move on to production.
@@fixitallpaul4847 and then he asks "do we really need that?"
It's always sad to see a company that you once respected, putting out cheap crap.
$ouled Out
@@custos3249 I feel bad for you. Nice tools still exist
@@custos3249 who in their right mind would expect to buy nice tools without cash? 🤷
USA?
The Rev is only $50, what do you expect from their cheapest full sized multitool? If you don't get the absolute cheapest model they sell you won't get the cheap crap that they sell. I have a Free P4 and that thing is amazing.
I have a rev and it has done well for me honestly. Stopped a boat from sinking, fixed a windshield wiper in downpour on a road trip, pulled hooks out of fingers. For 40 dollars it’s really not bad and a whole lot better than not having it.
Thank you for taking the hit for us AvE. Haven’t owned a Leatherman in years since losing it, but it was a beast. I replaced it with a Gerber tool 12 years ago and she still runs strong. It’s fucked when you need a tool to tighten/fix the multi-tool right out the box. Keep your balls in a sack🤙🏼
@@MyUnquenchableThirst I’ve had good service from my Charge TTI.
I love my Rev, as I do my other more expensive Leathermans.
Is it the one that the pliers slide out with the two buttons on the sides?
@@dbratboy92 thats the MP600. ive had one for a few months and its been great. the knifeless one has an abrasive blade which is EXTREMELY useful even when you have a full handtool kit at the ready.
@@sabiti5428 yea I have the snap on version still made by Gerber but beefier pliers and higher price tag but even in the shop with all my tools I pull it out constantly. Great tool. Snap on part # SMT97R. I’ve had it a few years
Oh and fun fact. Leatherman, Gerber, KAI / Kershaw, Benchmade, CRKT, and a ton of other knife brands are all based within like 2 zip codes down in Oregon.
Headquarters are in Portland but I bet they outsource to China. At least for the most part with some token made stuff in the USA to say they still do.
That explains a lot. All the Oregon brands are going bad. :(
Even funnier, some of the Gerber products are outsourced to Fiskars, only recoulored. And you can still find hidden Fiskars logo on them.
@@krivdik fiskars is not bad at all. the hand saw stuff is pretty high quality.
@@toomanymarys7355
Pendleton is still pretty good imo. Not a fan of Tillamook Cheese. And Nike is CCP cuck garbage.
Pendleton is really the only thing I can think of atm to BIRG. The other ones I CORF.
I have a Charge, Wave, Free P4 and a Sidekick. All are great except for the Sidekick, and even that is 10x better than the Rev apparently.
@@Wayoutthere for sure! I think the sidekick is good, but when compared to the others I mentioned it’s not as tough. I carry the sidekick when I travel for work so I’m not too afraid of losing it.
The Rev is the cheapest full sized multi tool they sell, the Micra and Squirt almost costs the same and they are like half the size. It's almost like their cheapest model (cost) is also their cheapest model (quality)
I carry a Free P4, it costs 3 times more than a Rev, and it shows.
@@heruhcanedean yeah the P4 is my main squeeze too. I brass plated mine and when I tore it down the build quality amazed me.
I have a sidekick and think its decent for the price, not bad tool selection if you realize it’s 1/3 the price of the free p4 & half that of the wave. It kills every Gerber in that price category.
@@rebellaxbro Sidekick is $70 msrp and P4 is $150 msrp, 1/2 the price.
But I also paid $100 for my P4, looking at a Sidekick and realizing you could have spent $30 more
I've had my wave for 12 years, just about everything still works well. Amazed they would put something on the market this craptacular
Had my wave for 22 years now, I'm still very happy with it.
I have had one for a long time I daily carry and buy them as gifts regularly, I think the quality on them has stayed ok, it's the cheaper ones that are apparently garbage
Got a wingman and it's crap compared to my old blast. Even though I've absolutely beaten the wheels off of it broken 3 tools on it from giving her far too many beans..
Always have my wave! Probably 10yrs ish Its custom af now 🤣🤘
@@Jihadbearzwithgunz Same. Broke the small flathead on it, then the terrible combo can/bottle opener that cuts bottle caps in half, and when I only had tools I rarely use left I went ahead and got a Victorinox SAK, one with pliers, and I don't think I'll ever go back to a Leatherman. The tools just aren't very well thought out on most models.
I bought my first Leatherman back in '97, or '98... they had an accessory you could buy for using Hex Bits that fit between the handles in the closed position, you could use it straight out the end, or slide a spring-loaded collar and flip it 90* to use at a right angle. Brilliant design, worked great, I took a an 8" strip of rubber, punched paired up holes to securely hold a variety of bits & drivers. Yes, fond memories where that setup saved the day!
I was just sober enough to find the base model for that NASA one. Convinced myself I could CNC some FR4 with whatever logo and have something similar. Sold.
.. now If I can get the CNC put back together before I misplace the damn thing I'll be happy.
How about an Uncle Bumblefuck logo?
I've had good luck sticking to my Wave and Skeletool CX for a daily carry.
I had a wave I used it to death Leatherman sent out a replaced it. It was a solid knife not as nice as the more expensive charge design but a good one for sure.
@@rotorhead5826 I broke mine without too much effort, I guess it was a defect. Anyways, Leatherman replaced it, no question asked, no problem with the new one.
I've been carrying that cheaper one since Christmas and I've loved it. I use it over my Rebar. For everyday work she gets the job done. For 1/3 to 1/4 of the price, its a great option for those who want to get into multitools but don't want to make the full plunge.
The pause after "... I had fond memories of Leatherman" hit me right in the feels.
I've watched Peg arc out his Leatherman Wave on a truck starter solenoid no less than a thousand times and it still hasn't welded shut. Maybe try that one.
Love zip ties! Good ol’ fella he is!
He has a version of the Charge, the upgraded Wave.
@@floyd2386 how many amps is the charge rated for?
@@bobby_greene Depends how skookum your heart is.
Ive seen him have to beat it open. He's welded it shut a time or 3 lol
I found a leatherman wave years back on a logging road while elk hunting... It has been a great tool for the price I paid.
I miss my Leatherman Wave. I lost it while elk hunting... It t was a great tool until I lost it.
@@jaymoge 🤔🤔
These used to sell for $20, and they were probably the best multitool at that price. But at that price, the only competition is the flimsy Gerber Dime and a whole host of craptacular no-name junk. Alright for occasional use, but it'll break if you use it regularly. The backsprings on the slipjoint tools crack off like hangnails, and since they're formed from the same sheet metal as the handles, they can't be replaced.
I think it's been discontinued now, but by the end of its run they were charging $40 for them, absolute rip-off
I love the Gerber Dime, it's been my keychain for years. But yes, incomparable to our Charge.
I have a generic one from Menards that is pretty great because its lanyard "ring" will snap down on the other half of the handle. Locked. At the jaw end there is a 3/8 drive adapter you can lock in. Match this up with one of those all-in-one sockets and you actually have a pretty decent multi-tool.
I have gerber dime as complement when I'm out in the Bush and around the office, nifty little tool but not a hard worker.
I have a knife proper for that
I have a Wingman which seems similar.
The box opener hook tool is the best tool. Great for opening hard plastic blister packs actually
I have never owned a Leatherman, but I have had the many iterations of the blunt nose Gerber 600 for going on three decades now. The big deal about the Gerber for me is that I can unholster, deploy, use, un-deploy, and holster all with one hand.
In the kind of work I do, that's terribly important.
Prison guard?
I've got original PST and Supertool, Rebar, Wave, new supertool, Micra, Squirt and a bunch of others, every single one I can unholster, open, use and close back one handed in the dark with gloves on.. not really a huge issue...
I mean they're not spring loaded things that fly open at the press of a button but I manage...
The leatherman is 1 hand use as well
@@Angelina-xj5zd and if you fall, you become the news in the worst possible way 😂
been carrying gerber for 30 years for this reason. tried lm design, but a fail
After 2 weeks of fairly intense looking, on the back of my brother having the wave, it was the one to beat. I eventually settled on the surge, you don't need to open the handle to use the tools like other utility tools, being larger, having heavier pliers with changeable cutters, removable file/diamond hone (you can sharpen the knife blade and you can replace it with a saw blade and you can get much longer jigsaw blades that fit. It has been a great choice for the extra coin, I wear it every day and use it most days.
I have a Surge too. It's big and heavy, but it works for me - I like it.
I bought a Leatherman surge years ago. I am extremely happy with it after getting a lot of good use out of it. I would still be using it but these days I usually have a full set of tools within easy reach.
I've had a fuse that's been in my bags and EDC for over a decade now. Still going strong.
i have the surge in stainless its great
Surge in my bag and a free p2 in my pocket. Pretty happy with both, despite all the hate for the p2
Been carrying a leatherman surge for many years. Its a great tool to have. Just remember its a jack of all trades but master of none
Years ago I was given a Leatherman (I guess it was the PST model) and it was FINE. The handles cut into your hand when you used the pliers, the pick and screwdriver tips were so hard that they shattered with moderate geek use. I didn't find out about the warranty until replacement parts weren't available.
And then I went to see Cirque du Soleil. It shouldn't have been a problem. I've gone to see the Cirque many many times.
But this time it was at the new "single quote" arena in Edmonton, and I guess a "different" clientele watches pro hockey, because security wands me down (wat?) and detects my Leatherman. "No weapons allowed". No, no, this is a tool, not a weapon. "Nope, it's a knife. You could hurt someone." With a pair of pliers? "You'll have to leave and put it in your car and miss the first half of the show or surrender it now" Surrender a pair of pliers with a crap screwdriver attached because I could hurt someone? FINE.
So I lost my Leatherman with the very worn leather pouch. I'm sure that some rent-a-cop at the single quote has a really FINE multitool now. Perk of the job I suppose.
It got replaced with a Wave+. Much better tool, doesn't cut into your hands, although the stupid popsicle stick screwdriver thing sucks. And the nylon pouch is a disappointment too.
Oh well, some day the Cirque will come back and I'll have my Wave in my bag and some Edmonton City Police reject will become its new owner.
The "dew claw trimmer" is for cutting into that kind of plastic packaging that likes to cut you. I have one on a Gerber Dime (which is more for looking at than using as well)
That thing puts to shame the "Snap-on" one I got at Costco in a blister pack along with the world's dimmest flashlight and a couple of half decent 1" ratchet straps. I knew they would be cheap tools, I paid a cheap price but I was shocked how cheap they were considering the brand name that was on them. We are talking Power Fister cheap, not even Pro-Point.
A lot of tool manufacturers offer cheap imitations of their flagship tools. I think it's a shitty practice but it's practically a different market. The higher end leathermans are surprisingly skookum.
It's best to avoid buying Snap-On products from anywhere outside the website or the tool truck...
@@CeeKayz0rz I wasn't after snap-on products, I was after ratchet straps. They just happened to be the best option with the thought that I would get a half decent tool and light to toss in the glovebox for just a bit more than straps alone.
I think I saw something at costco as well it said Licensed product and it was made by some Chinese company per the manufacturer on the back.
@@CeeKayz0rz Been avoiding Snap-Off regardless, ever since I watched the same SO ratchet break three times in one month.
First I got a Wingman, cheap stuff, never regretted I lost it though some people love it. Then bought a Wave as a daily carry and never looked back. Sturdy as hell, does what it says on the thin.
I mean a shitty tool is sometimes better than no tool, but there's so many better alternatives, Bond, Rebar, you can even get a PST, all way better quality tools...
If you ever break or misplace your Wave, try a Rebar! its leagues above the Wingman/Rev at almost the same pricepoint..
Love my wave, especially with the flat bit kit it's like having a decent toolbox with you at all times and it hardly takes up any space! The Sidekick is good to
I like my Rev, you just have to look at the use case. It's not a shop tool, it's an office tool. The package opener (actually pretty useful for opening boxes if you're prone to slicing up the contents with a knife) is a dead giveaway. A single mounting point for the clip is plenty when it will spend the majority of the time either in a stationary pocket (i.e. seated) or on a desk (where mine lives). The inner tools lock up well enough for light use (although admittedly the driver side on mine leans more towards retention than locking) and the blade on mine has no play whatsoever. It's definitely not meant for 91 kg gorillas, but it's also the cheapest full size multitool in their lineup by a fair margin. Maybe the tooling has worn down since I got mine, but for me it has served well in its designated space.
100% this. People think every Leatherman is supposed to be as tough as every other Leatherman. That's just not the case.
Someone in their marketing team decided that the potential hit to the brand name was worth the risk to gather a new market. When the brand is associated with heavy duty, that can be a tricky thing to do. I'm not disagreeing with you, just trying to interpret where people are coming from.
That is a fair point, but personally I've never associated Leatherman with heavy duty. I also have a 300 that has lived in the garage/truck/RV for over 2 decades. I think the reason it has survived my normal pattern of tool abuse for so long is that when I need to do something "heavy duty" I spend the extra 30 seconds to grab the proper tool. Proper Leatherman tools may be tougher than trade show handout knockoffs, but they are still just a collection of small bits of steel in a stamped box.
My main point is recognizing the limits or your tools. Even within the Leatherman lineup, I don't think anyone would use a Squirt to try to put chains on a tractor. If your multitool comes with a package opener, expect to use it in a situation where you might be opening packages.
I'm not saying that our dear Uncle Bumblefuck is unjustified in his dislike, just that his final judgement may be colored by misplaced hopes and expectations.
@Johnny TheTrailerSlayer as I said, sometimes a boxcutter or knife can go too deep, especially if the box has no cardboard between the tape and the contents. Never had to sharpen it or clean it other than removing a stray bit of tape. I use the pliers and screwdrivers to tighten camera fittings in addition to working on a multitude of small indoor projects. And I just don't like Bic pens.
You really try hard to justify your cheapness and the merit of the junk you bought. Lol. The sintered metal jaws are enough to immediately pass on this. I wonder how much this piece of junk cost to manufacture.
“Dull as a bible scholar” 😂 oh, man.. I love you.
HI Ave, fellow Canuck, I have owned a REV for about 6 years, it does what I want and has stood up well, price was important since I tend to lose these things. I have managed to break the blade right at the cutout twice while doing stupid things like using the blade to pry on things. Leatherman has replaced the tool both times at no cost other than shipping. The Rev is small, light, and rides in it's pouch on my hip all the time. I still like your review, yes at the price point I paid it isn't the greatest but it works and the company is great. I am a handy man and the REV is my go to tool when the toolbox is out of reach. Thanks for the video's. Kevin
Found an old style Leatherman in the woods a few months after receiving one of these as a gift.
Now I show the gift the respect it deserves by keeping it in near pristine condition.
I have the leatherman rebar almost 10 years. Its like a smaller supertool, and it is a joy to use.
The rebar is the best compromise between weight and features (for me anyway) in the Leatherman family of tools.
I am not dressed without it on my belt. The best sheath also holds a mini Maglight.
I developed this theory that the supertool and rebar are for people who do actual field work and the charge and surge are for "posers", for lack of a better turm, who need to tighten thier glasses from time to time.
Yea I've really come to love my rebar for at home and around carry. Got it as a replacement for my PST when I broke the pliers..
Yes! Great tool set, size, and price for EDC. I got the metal holster from RAE gear and it's great for easy access and retains it very well.
I have and use the rebar everyday. I did break the small flat bit (which loosened up everything in that handle)and I got a replacement rebar a week and a half later. The warranty is fantastic. And that phillips is fantastic! It seems to fit everything perfectly. Love it and might spring for a better model after the 25 year warranty is up. Probably be dead first though…
I’ve accumulated quite a few Leatherman tools over the years, mostly acquired cheap at pawn shops.
The Surge & Wave+ have never disappointed, but most of the more recent offerings show that profits are becoming the primary focus.
my surge broke the jaw trying to bend an s hook on a tarp strap
The Wave is an awesome tool, that pinch point when using the pliers damn near kills it for me though, I've done it twice at least and it's not fun. My daily has been the OHT for a few years now, very nice for ladder work
I was going to mention the surge. I think it was pretty good before mine got hung up in a cast net and yeeted to the bottom of the ocean
I like the Charge Ti in Black Oxide, I’m pretty sure that was the one. It grew legs years ago. It didn’t have Scissors so I don’t think it was the Charge TTi (the newest version is Charge+ TTi I guess.)
Edit: The Squirt P4 (I think) on my Keys has been a solid tool for the last 15 years or so.
I have a really nice snapon branded gerber and it’s pretty nice. Had it a few years. Guaranteed on the truck, and has one hand opening feature. That makes it pretty handy. It also avoids the classic leather man problem of the tool trying to fold up if you drove the pliers open instead of closed as they slide out and lock.
my Rev has served me well these past 8 years. multiple jobs, hitchhiking through the country, living out of my truck. no rust, blade sharpens well, all the tools are useful, wire cutter still cuts, no regrets here
Are you a bot?
I carry and "USE" the Free P4 . Love the one hand operation and all tools lock, replaceable wire cutter blades. The cost is a little pricey but it's Leatherman's Flagship USA. Never leave home without it. Do yourself a favor and buy it and you'll never look at another again. Great USA product!!
I was wanting one but my skeletool was fine enough for me and couldn't justify it. So naturally, I ended up losing it in a drop ceiling - genuinely, I did lose it - and boom! Got a P4 the next morning and it is a beauty.
Isn’t the Charge+ TTi still the Flagship?
"The cost is a little pricey" yeah for less you could get a wave + with more features and still have money left over and also have a tool that its leathermans flagship tool that has been proven to be reliable and very capable. Besides why would i need a tool thats more expensive then a wave has 4 flathead screwdrivers, a worthless file that came from the wingman, and an "Awl" that barely functions properly as one and all for the asking price of 150$ with tools that look like they came from their budget line tools the wingman, and sidekick sounds like a great product oh and also for more i could get a charge with a better blade steel and the same tool compliments as a wave.
I carried a rev for years and loved it. It's light and with some use, breaks in nice and smooth.
No offense, but that rev is domestically made and cost $30. That limited edition nasa g10 surge goes for $750. I think the smart purchase is to buy the rev and save $720.
These days I carry a wave. 420 stainless is fine - S30V is less tough and way too expensive.
420 hc is a great working steel. In my experience it behaves very similarly to be 1075, just less rusty. I've had a few different supersteels & their edge retention is great until they chip & or they need a significant sharpening. I've never understood the disdain for it from the blade community as I've found it to be among the most user friendly.
Neither one is a "smart" purchase honestly. That's the Rebar. Not crazy expensive, but still worthy of the Leatherman name.
@@floyd2386 Good call. I'm not an everyday edc multitool carrier but for my needs the Rebar or the big brother S.T. 300 are the best overall options.
My first multi tool was a Vinylman from the flea market. It did sorta replace the 6 way screwdriver, pair of pliers and box cutter I kept in my jacket pocket. After I could no longer peen the rivets to work anymore I broke down and got a Gerber tool. I picked it over the leatherman because I could open it one handed and was rounded over where you grip it. I have had one on me over 30 years now. The time I dont have it with me anymore is when riding horses ( I came off once and landed on it, took a while to get over that) I made a pocket in my saddlebag for it.
Proud to say I carry the same leatherman as AVE - always be knolling 🙌🏻
As far as I know Leatherman discontinued their best tool. It’s called The Crunch. It had an actual vise grip, locking pliers vs those crappy needle nose type. Why they discontinued The Crunch is mind boggling. They were the only usable Leatherman I’ve ever had.
I've got a crunch and a charge. Best multitools ever
I'd been meaning to pick up a crunch and not a week before I was ready to pull the trigger they discontinued it.
A damned shame.
@@WeAreChecking they’re still available if you look hard enough. eBay, ect…… The downside is they cost a little more.
I've heard it'll be back. Hopefully they'll update it too. Not a big fan of the serrated edge the knife has.
@@WeAreChecking Find an old Ace hardware store that looks like its all dried up. They'll probably still have a couple of them.
I carry an old Leatherman PST in my bag. it's seen some shit, despite its shortcomings of being a 'multitool'. but, it's been in the family and your video on the NASA one made me realize I'm going to get it stolen by TSA one day. So I bought the Leatherman Bond just a couple days ago. 10 dollars more than your Rev there (in the states), and it looks way better. not "great", but better. properly deburred and not a lot of weeble, the pliers teeth still look molded in, not cut. oh well. Also, it's more 'traditional' in styling which is what I was going for.
I do have a Victorionox which blows its socks off, but that was also a good bit more expensive. Probably worth from a buy-once perspective.
One thing I have enjoyed about them in Australia was the lifetime guarantee, now 25 yrs maybe. No proof of purchase required, just send her in and get back a new one because they won’t bother repairing older models. I upgraded two models this way and it was legit as both broke a component without undue stress. Got me to thinking, if you keep a look out for broken ones thrown away or in an op shop grab them, send them away to Leatherman for repair and get a newbie.
Don't fly problem solved. Lol
I still have my original PST as well. Those things are basically indestructible. Not as comfortable in bare hands as the newer models, but they won't let you down.
I met the guy that invented the Leatherman many years ago. The line crew I was on parked our equipment on his property for a few days while we were installing fiber in the area. Nice guy.
If you are wondering, no he didn't have a mansion surrounded by a bunch of super cars. His house is "unique" but in a good way on some beautiful property out in the country in the middle of nowhere.
That Rev is perfect for leaving in the wife’s green lawn toy, that way when your a mile from the shop you’ll have something to attempt to make a repair with and get right proper pissed throwing the tool as far into the bush as possible given the mittens, now the true value is shown in that having already been pissed off and got that over with you can return from the warm tool stash with a helper in hand!
I bought a £19 multitool from Germany and it has lasted me 5 years, my friend got this exact type of leatherman and i managed to cut through his file with the side cutters on my knife without major damage. The only issue ive had is that the bolts tend to loosen which is easily fixed with threadlocker
Edit : mil-tec black cobra was the brand
I got a Leatherman Wingman a couple years ago as a gift, similar construction. It's not great, but it has held up better than I expected.
I've got a Leatherman Crunch, found it in a car out at Pick N Pull one day. Greatest multitool I've ever had. Vise grips in a multitool package make for one hell of a skookum choocher.
I have the really nice Ti Surge(?) and a Sidekick. Picked up the Rev on the company dime - junk. So many little things they didn’t do, like the cutout for the knife deploy up top so you can one hand it in the dark.
Sidekick is my fav, love the spring action on the pliers. Not too expensive, can handle the abuse.
The original leatherman had a built in safety feature. The plier handles were incredibly uncomfortable, which kept you from squeezing to hard and damaging the plier jaws.
That said, I wish they still made the original model.
They do it’s the leather man PST pocket survival tool
I found a nearly new original PST and damn if that profile isn't 😤👌 slick
The cheap ones might be cheap but my wingman lasted me 13 years and is still in perfect working order. I only just recently upgraded to the free p4 because absolutely everything is accessible with one hand. Highly recommend. Both of ‘em.
If the wingman lasted you 13 years you're not using it wrongly enough.. I've broken every kind of Leatherman I've touched exept the Rebar and the ST300, both will break too, just give me some time...
@@RenaxTM91 sounds like you just dont treat your tools very well
As my brother likes to say, "Leatherman, the wrong tool for every job." Having said that, I've been buying them since the earlier 90's. Still have an OG or two.
Back to your roots...good advice about crappy tools...love it!!
My Leatherman PST that I've had since 1997 finally died a couple months ago and I picked up a Free P2 as the replacement. Overall I'm pleased with the Free series and their one-hand operation, I hope you'll give one a try eventually. It actually works well with gloves... within reason.
When my wave (1st generation best generation) decided to take up life on the road while I road my motorcycle home from work I ended up getting a charge to replace it in almost immediately got a wingman for day to day wear for opening boxes and trimming nails maybe one day opening a can the charge is with the pants for things that need a quick tool but not quite the right tool. Essentially a dress leatherman and a work leatherman
When it comes to full size ones I have a wave and a charge tti, got the second one when I lost the first one. Then uhhh it showed up again after about a year when cleaning out some pieces of cardboard boxes that I presumably cut with that same wave. Both are holding up just fine and one lives in my backpack now, has helped both me and some others a few times with minor issues on the bicycle and what not (removing a broken mudguard at the front wheel that got in the way, tightening a few things, etc).
The small leatherman squirt PS4 and medium sized juice XE6 are decent too (for their size and some odd small things). The juice fits in jeans pockets good enough at all times and the tiny squirt does the job in shorts with smaller pockets for summer weather without getting in the way. Not something you'd do something big with but pliers, tiny scissors and a tiny knife comes in handy more often than I expected. Mostly to open boxes and maybe tighten the occasional loose screw though in everyday life at home and the office when working in the before covid times.
I'm very disappointed to see that the demonstrated model in this video exist, had seen the cheaper models around at times on various websites but never realised at least some of those will be this crappy! Good to know, not something I'll ever buy for myself or as a gift unless I can preferably inspect them in person first or at least take the time to do research on the particular model.
I used one of the revs for a while. I nicked the cutters on some high tension wire, and the clip broke off in a motorcycle accident. Yeah, the drivers and all don't lock and they bit me a few times. I have a leatherman signal now and I pretty well like it. Replaceable cutters are a must.
I found a Leatherman Rev + Style CS double pack at a secondhand reseller still in the box for just $20. I really do like it, even if it is one of the cheapo Leatherman multitools. For what I paid for mine, I'd say it was worth it. I everyday carry my Rev, and the Style CS I put on my car keychain, since it's small and has a built in carabiner.
There is no other reviewer on the tubes like yourself top man
Peace n love from Cumbria UK 🇬🇧 ❤
Missed your videos, glad there's another to look forward to. During the century of Covid.
As a young guy in his early 20s I had a Rev, for me it’s was fine all things considering. At least for broadcast engineering, a lot of electronics, among other things.
The nice thing about the rev that I will say is that the tip of the cast jaws is the perfect size for a Robertson!
And that larger cutting radius at the base off the jaw is better suited as a stripper then a cutter
Now i’m getting into my late 20s I have a curl, I got it for free, and that’s quite alright, they added a back spring to the tools, not a lock mind you, and the jaws are still center Ed powder, but they ground it down this time, sort of. Honestly the cutters are only good for solid core BIX pairs or cat6 networking.
Have a look at SOG multi tools. Strong recommendation, the jaws and handles are timed/meshed together with gears.
That 'dewclaw trimmer" is package opener, supposedly useful for opening those dreaded plastic clamshell packages.
I use mine as a deburring knife. Works great.
Surprisingly, they actually work well once you figure them out. I have one on my Gerber Dime which is one of my EDCs
The biggest lie in the industry - "frustration free packaging"
It's unfortunately close to resembling something that can pry though, and you will be tempted, and then you won't have one anymore...
@@justme4539 Actually, once you figure them out you can open them very easily and safely without tools. Just fold one end of it a few times and crease it then you can just tear it open.
Ive had my original wave since about 1998. Fantastic tool. Best 70 spent on in college.
You really have an amazing way with words. Love your videos man
I've had one of these for years after O found it in a field. I just have it in the house or take it with me on vacations for occasional light use. E.g. opening letters or cans, light pliar use. Its great for that and I love it. However I wouldnt dare take it to the shed. It would die in 15 minutes.
This is the one I travel with or go to public events with so if customs or security take it from me I'm not real upset. My Super Tool is around $100, I would be upset loosing it to a rentacop.
Are those canola seeds on your workbench?
Good old cash crop. Gets everywhere
Only Leatherman I have is the Rebar, I carry it all the time and I love it. Haven't needed to replace the side cutter blades yet but I do love that they are replaceable.
love mine, have had it for 6 years and use it every day. never had a use for fancy scissors or corkscrew or 3 different blades.
I got the Signal a couple of years ago and I just noticed that sharp edge on the blade thumb hold whatsit. It also has the sintered pliers, but with the replaceable cutting blades and I'd say is better put together than the Rev based on the video.
Leatherman do have the Rev listed on their site, for 50 of Uncle Sam's finest greenbacks, it looks identical to the version from the Homeless Despot...
I have the same one. Paid $130 for it, for that price it better be pretty good. I've had mine for about 5 yrs, still going strong, but the straight part of the blades starting to get a bit dull, the serrated part is still sharp as a razor blade though.
I too have the signal, I love it other than the blade, I hate serrated blades. Still going strong after 4 years of abuse.
I have the Free P4 and I really do like it especially because of the one handed opening mechanism, but it has that same "worse than useless" tiny ruler thing and I have not used it once.
Looks like a shlewdong measurer to se how excited ya are
Can really hear the anguish & disappointment in old mates voice at the end there, gut-wrenching...
It's such perfect marketing. When I saw the thumbnail and when he was handling it at first I thought it didn't look so bad. Enough that I might buy it. And then of course on any closer inspection (only possible once you've bought the thing) it reveals itself to be the pristine work of art it truly is.
A wise man once said "A tool what does everything, ain't good for fackall".
Still have my original Leatherman Supertool. It's a great draw ornament.
Love my Gerber M600det though.
I managed to break my Gerber Suspension after twelve years of use (got it cheap, US$12 at an Ace Hardware) so my wife found me a Gerber Diesel "Multi-plier" which I haven't broken. Yet.
Real solid tools IME from Gerber. Love the positive lock and I'll never own another multi with grips with open gaps on the outside when opened. Give me smooth grips or piss off.
I carry a leatherman wingman, it's never the best tool but, it's the one that's always in my pocket. I mainly use it to get chip bird nests off lathe tools.
A few years ago. I got a couple of multitools from the petrol station for £1.
It's got a flat and pozi screwdriver
A knife that's sharp enough to cut your fingers and pliars.
I keep one in my van for emergencies. It's been great.
The other one I keep in my quiver. It's been very handy for removing arrows out of boss stands when people miss, cutting serving material etc.
I have a whole box of leathermans. I bought a rev just to try out and i have to agree with AvE on this one. The worst part for me was the blades edge retention as well as the breaking both screwdriver blades with just regular use. I have a wave+ as i type this and often carry a wingman but its not much better than the REV.
Yes and the Wave plus cost 3 times the Rev
I love my old Wave and use it daily. I had broken a driver, worn out the file and lost the screwdriver bit. I sent it in and they completely rebuilt it gratis. Not bad for a roadside find🙂
What's the current turnaround time nowadays? I have Charge TTi I sent in because the wire cutters had so much gap to them that it would only mash thin wires instead of cut them, and it took over a month to get back. I still couldn't cut wire as easily as I could with the Gerber Suspension NXT, which has an anvil cutter instead of the bypass, and worked perfectly in comparison. I ended up shimming the cutting edges to get the clearance close enough to work.
@@wingerrrrrrrrr it seems like it was about 3 weeks. They replaced my original forged cutters with the newer replaceable blades that were in the video. I have used them and haven't had complaints. Like the man says, if a tool does everything it won't do anything great.
About 15 years ago, my dad picked up a bag of Leatherman Micros at a TSA auction. There was about 10 Micro and one Supertool. He's down to 4 Micros now; all others having been returned to the TSA via airport security checkpoints. They really don't make 'em like they use to; fortunately he's retired and doesn't fly anymore.
The dewilt trigger and battery assembly and gear rigs your going to loose them at least I would. I love it !!!
I’ve had probably a half dozen leathermans over the years and I’ve layed them all to rest with the exception of the original that I’ve had for probably 20 years or better. The needle nose is a little shorter than it started and the knife blade is smaller due to a thousand sharpenings, but still I prefer my old one to the new yunk they got these days.
I'm happy with my Wingman (same product line as the rev) and it's great for the 26$ I believe I paid. I know it's not super premium but it does it's job and back when I bought it I didn't want to spend the 100$ on a wave
i love my wave plus, was gifted it and used all year doing maintenance at a car wash
Exactly! It's hard to complain at that price point and also a outstanding warranty
I've had the Leatherman Rev for 3-4 years now and its been great for me. Mine doesn't seem as cheaply made as yours, all my fasteners still tight as the day I got it, all my tools lock in place, pliers bite good on most things. The only thing that I really dont like is if you try to twist with the pliers its pretty chincy and will shift side to side. Definitely not firm enough for heavy duty plier use but for casual use works perfect.
I have one Leatherman model similar to that and it lives in my tackle box. Picked it up years ago on clearance at Lowes.
Had a supertool, great until I lost it. Now have had a surge for 15 years, replaced the pliers nose once in that time. Their cheaper range though, genuine shit! At least they still honour the lifelong warranty for when you inevitably break them though!
I used a original wave to death they did replace it for me. Solid for the cost but I like the charge better.
@@Shep01 I still have the original patent pending wave from 98. It's a great multi tool. Having survived 10 years of daily use and 14 years of occasional use it's still trucking along.
I have to disagree with you on this one. I bought a rev when I forgot my knife on the way to a camping trip. It's honestly my favorite multi tool I've owned. It's about the size of a regular pocket knife so it's lite and compact. Cheap so I don't worry about losing or breaking it. And it's gotten me through a lot of problems. I've been carrying one for several years now. Only thing I've broken on it was the tip of the file.
Agreed. I'm carrying mine as we speak. I bought it at Tractor Supply one day (mainly because I saw it had a pocket clip) and carry it often, mainly at work. I'm in maintenance and it gets the job done.
@@ronaldstewart6332 or just their work environment. Depending on where you work/play, the odds of losing tools is pretty significant. It's nice to have a beater for the outside world so you can keep the good tools safe in the shop 😂
@@ronaldstewart6332 We camp often in sand dune and desert areas where you need a metal detector to find a dropped pocket knife on a windy day…
Friend’s kid earned $20 from a stranger exactly that way. Family heirloom, crashed the night before and lost the knife.
None of our out and about tools are expensive unless they’re large enough to not immediately get buried. Dropped a socket? Dune treasure now….
classic ave. happy as f... your back with these last two videos
I have carried the same SOG for 15 years I love it and got my son one for his 13th birthday.
That makes me afraid of how far Gerber has probably fallen as well. I loved my Leatherman once I got it broken in, but the slide out pliers on the Gerber were far better for one handed use. Interesting review!
Quite the contrary. I've looked at both and decided Gerber is the better tool.
@@zachv1942 Gerber also makes crap. If you go with like the classic 600 you'll be okay. Leatherman kind of went downhill after the Wave. Once the accountants set in, they might as well shut the doors.
My 20+ year old Leatherman Supertool has exactly the same construction for the pliers. The only difference is that surfaces have been cleaned up on a linisher, so its nothing new for Leatherman. They have always worked well too.
The supertool has a much better finish on the pliers, PST too (witch is closer to the size and pricepoint) I've broken a few of both. Carbide cutting inserts are soo nice when you actually use them for other than soft copper wire.... I've done full force with both hands to cut nails and stuff and there's not a scratch on the inserts...
I got a Leatherman wingman at a pawn shop for 50¢ couldn't beat the price. It was just covered in soda. Cleaned it up and it was like new. I've carried a Leatherman core for about 10 years then went to the surge. Love it
Love the language out of this guy, been watching for years!
The last decade or so Leatherman prices have shot up. Almost every overseas made model has been decent to junky. The domestically produced lines have still been good but, again, prices have shot up.
I used to buy Leathermans and Gerbers (the few models that are not trash) as gifts for friends, family, and colleagues. Back then a Wave or Sidekick was $30-$40. Those days are long behind us.
I happened to score a usa made gerber for about $35 off bezos’ wonderland ages ago. Has been a fantastic tool for me and everything locks. Can deploy with 1 hand too!
Thank you for sharing. Stay safe.
I used to carry a Leatherman on my hip to work, but I found myself using it more often than I should, just to save me trips back to the truck for the right tool. Into the fuckit-bucket it went, and I feel better about my work
I’ve had my MUT for about eight years now, been a pretty decent tool, but I did break the sight wrench within the first year.
Mine walked away from me in my final month of service. A good tool, that mut
@@celewign
I completely agree, they did a good job on that multi-tool.
Personally I've always preferred the SOG power locks over any of the Leatherman tools most of what I use them for is the pliers and they have the best that I've found so far
I've carried a surge for 10 years now, but I do like the pliers on my dog power lock
I had two of those Leathermans. I lost them both multiple times. But whenever I managed to keep them around they worked well for me. Sharpest knife in my truck every time despite never sharpening it. In fact, once I was driving with a trailer and a side panel made of sheet metal came loose and tore up one of the tires. The only way to get the spare on and ride off was to cut the panel in half. I didn't have any tools to cut sheet metal in the truck but I had that Leatherman. Cut through that sheet metal about a quarter inch at a time with the snips at the base of the pliers. When I was done the Leatherman was in just as good of a condition as when I started.
Sorry your experience differed.
Edit: By the way the reason the clip is "loose" is that screw is a hinge. If it's tightened down more it makes the tool harder to open. That's why the clip has a retainer to keep it from rotating.
Back about 20 years ago I got my dad a Leatherman Sideclip. He absolutely loved it, he kept it on him and used it daily for 5-7 years or so till it broke. He sent it in to be repaired, they instead sent him back some cheap POS Blast. He tossed it in a drawer and I bought him a Gerber. Gerber & Schrade multitools have been my multitools of choice for over a decade.
If your dad still has the blast is it possible to but it? Its a nice tool and they've been discontinued for about 15 years
Thats disappointing, I loved both the leatherman tools I've lost.
All the best leathermen are in heaven.
8 years and I've nearly destroyed my Leatherman Wave. 8 years because I cut some TIG wire with it in welding school and messed up the side cutters. It's a bitch to open up now so it's become emergency use only.
grab yourself a wave+, it's got the replaceable sideys. then you can put tother one on the mantlepiece
I have a sidekick as a backup multi tool for my vehicle. It was cheap and not my main tool. But if I need it for something small it works in a pinch.
This reminds me of the Leatherman wingman only a straight edge vs serrated and no scissors on the Rev. I feel the way you do about the Rev with my wingman so it stays in my truck as my back up/emergency tool.