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Pretty disappointed !!! The best Leatherman is The Dark Side !!!! It at least has 2 new items. A PEN and TWEEZERS !!!!!!! They sold out in seconds so nobody got one. I've been hounding them to do something like that again. This is The Wave with better metal. The Dark Side is the wave with a pen and tweezers, which I would personally use all the time. Bug Leatherman to make that again !!!!! Make it with this nice metal and design, that'd be great, but it's gotta have everything we see here with the pen and tweezers. Otherwise, I rarely look at the Leatherman site. Nothing THAT new and innovative... At least to spend over 200 bucks on when my wave has everything you see here. :-/
Ive had a Wave+ for a few years and decided to upgrade to the Arc. So far ive seen a huge benefit to the Arc when trying to use the outside accessable scissors and one handed deployment of the bit driver and prybar. Not having to open the pliers to get to those extra tools saves a bunch of time and fiddling. Essentially a Wave+ with an improved user interface, I have been very happy so far with the purchase.
“Saves a bunch of time and fiddling.” Any product that reduces your work time is more valuable than people give credit for. Time is more precious than money, so whatever saves you time is worth its weight in gold.
I’m the same, have had a couple Waves over the last 2 decades and this is basically an improved version of that for me. To make it nearly perfect for me at work I’d like to get the full bit kit to assemble my most useful set, an improved sheath I can carry horizontally (miss the one from my old Wave) and if they would only stock the ratcheting extender again…
Thought I would agree with this until I EDC'd the Arc for a while. The Arc's one handed operation makes for a significantly more refined tool. On the job site, situational awareness and focus is *premium*. Being the guy who reaches one hand into his pocket and without even having to look down has the right tool selected by the time it's raised into his workspace is a BIG difference from being the guy that has to put down his coffee first and fumble with two hands and two eyes occupied for 10-15 seconds to get the right tool out. The Arc sets you up to be the first guy, not the second guy, and that's where I want to be.
with the 30% off on leatherman website paid 160 ( like 175 to my door) and for that USA made magnacut even forgetting about the rest of the tools seems like a pretty good deal
Looking for a second hand Arc at around 150-160. At that price, for the one handed opening, blade and magnet (which can be considered an unofficial tool if you drop a small metal item), it’d be a fair price.
I’ve had a Wave for over 10 years… And I bought the Arc a week ago, the Arc is honestly an amazing tool … Magnacut, and just the easy access and dexterity on it makes it the best multi tool I’ve ever owned..
Wow! I guess I'm a loser. I work construction and use my knife everyday. Paid about $20 and thought I was going fancy. Had it 15 years now; she still gets the job done and let's me put a check in the bank and food on the table. 😢
On a side note about the price, if you are a veteran, check out the military discount at Leatherman. I actually bought the Arc for $160. I couldn't pass that up. Best military discount I've ever gotten i think. BTW, I love the Arc, and would have bought it at regular price eventually.
The Arc is basically the Wave+ on steroids. Being able to access all the tools one handed is a game changer. My Surge will still be my edc for work but after work its gonna be the Arc.
I honestly have no problem one handing all the tools on my wave. It's loose enough to flick it and it opens up like butterfly knife... I do get the all outside tool advantage, but some tools seem to be made strangely to work with the magnets like the strippers on the awl.
I just ordered my Arc a few days ago and can't wait to get it in my hands an try it out,not sure if I wan to void the warranty an swopp out the bit exchanger to the half size an 1/4 size like next level edc did an make it more versatile an not have to worry about the Leatherman prepritory bits,just wondering,cause it costs a bit of money so I'm still not sure I wanna void my warranty in case I don't like it an it breaks on me,I already got it customized engraved with my name on it an a Kool pattern too.
$100 more than the p2 honestly isn’t that bad for extra tools plus a coated Magnacut blade. If my P2 ever fails me I would gladly pay $230 for a good multitool.
I had a response from leatherman about cutters they said there engineering team immediately tested there current inventory to diagnose the cause. Through there tests, they found that some lots of replaceable wire cutters did not meet expectations. Said they will send me replacements.
Nice honest review. People are kinda funny sometimes. They have no problem paying 160-180$ for a bugout made of plastic with a s30v blade but are also complaining about the Arc at 230$😅. I’m a knife enthusiast and for me,personally, 230$ for a tool i really enjoy everyday with a Magnacut blade is a decent price. If i had to only keep one LM it would be my surge tho. But i’m really enjoying my Arc. Time will tell if it’ll keep its place tho! Thanks for the video man!
Received mine a few weeks ago after loosing my Wave. Had a second thought because of the price here in Europe (300$give or take) I had many occasions to use it for precise jobs ( thanks to the mini screwdriver) or more demanding using pliers, scissors ( far better than my wave), the amazing blade, the file on soft steel, the screw driver, almost every tool. I used to carry a SAK as edc, now it spend a lot of time in my drawer. In short, a great tool except that I’m left handed and opening the pliers one handed, is clearly not as easy for me than for a right handed user. I added a small flashlight to the sheet, an electric saw blade for steel (fits perfectly in the bit holder) and a bit extender for non leatherman bits. Didn’t regret my euros for a second
To each their own, but I’d rather buy a wave+ and if I needed a stronger knife to pair with it, I’d get a small Esee or even a mora for less then the price of the new arc. I think leatherman jumped on the magnacut train a little too early.
The flex is totally normal. It’s part of how the frame is designed. If you are worried, don’t be. I’ve had a p4 in my pocket and have used it every day for 2 years with zero issues. Hard use at times. It’s very solid.
I'm glad you brought up the sharpness of the handles when the tool is closed up. It's not that big of an issue for small uses, but I would definitely see it being a little bit of a irritation over prolonged use. And how long did it take you to get flicking your blade open in one smooth go? Days ago I just got my arc, and I think I've only successfully flick with the thumb stud once or twice, and I have scared myself by running my finger across the blade a couple times, and boy is that thing sharp outta the box.
It is sharp for sure! That’s how mine operated out of the box. Maybe play around the pivots a little bit and see if you can loosen it up just a bit. It is a good blade.
Mine is similar; it's tight. I can't even flick it open with the thumb stud, let alone flip it open or closed. I might try adding a little lube to the pivots at some point, because the whole tool is a little stiff. My Free P4 is a little looser, but I can't flip its blade open, either.
i just wish they have a series we can just pick the tools we want to have on there.....i know ppl have been modding tools, but why not just from the factory if thats allow, if anything, that would be the easiest thing for them to do since they already have the detailed engineering drawing, and i am sure they try to reuse parts from other tools whenever they can...... for now, i guess modding is still the only way to get a perfect arc for me.
Great review! Thank you! Like many of you, I've carried a one-hand-open pocketknife, clipped to my pocket, for years and years. I spent years as a coffee equipment technician and there were countless times I'd be holding something inside a machine with one hand and it was SO helpful to be able to open my knife with one hand, use it for the task, then close it and put it away with that same hand and keep working. It became a natural frequent motion. My wife and I are planning some touring through Canada and I can't imagine going through my days without a knife. I'll reach for it all the time. I read that in Canada they won't let you have knives that you can clearly open with one hand, so I'm hoping that this ARC is a happy medium. Even though you ~can~ open it with one hand, the knife has enough other purposes and its purpose in life isn't just being a one-hand-open pocketknife, so I hope it will be acceptable and fly under the radar. Thoughts?
The plier cutter problem isn't only that some break, but the shape of them are rounded near the pivot, causing that gap making it more difficult to make cuts. Try other LM pliers, you'll see the others are way better. For me, the P4 is just fine. Magnacut is super cool, but I'd rather have a blade that's easier to sharpen than one with better edge retention.
Well the cutter isn't just an arc problem. Send in your p4 for warranty and they'll swap them for the new style cutter that are on the arc and every other recently made leatherman.
My Free P4 has USA stamped on it. It is seized up and needs to go back to Leatherman but I did harvest the good cutters off of it for my ARC. The ARC is awesome. The price is fine. MagnaCut, the diamond file, good scissors, the bit changer and all the tools are outside accessible... None of the other Leatherman tools have all that. The ARC retired my Charge TTi. Still love that though.
As a follower of your channel, I decided to make a channel as well. Love your content. It’s crazy the price of the arc! I’m impressed you can shut it by Itself. I can’t do that yet!
If they made one in a less expensive steel at a much lower price, I would get one. For me, my multitool blades are for heavy duty or sketchy cutting. It's more of a sacrificial blade since I always have a pocket knife. A multitool with some whiz-bang knife steel isn't going to make me ditch my pocket knife.
P4 handles flexes the same way when squeezing the pliers and side to side motion as the ARC does. Not an issue. Clay Hayes is Alone season 8 winner and he used the P4 and swears by it. P4 plier head is stamped with USA. The ARC is $70 more than the P4 and you get Magnacut blade. Are there cheaper models and brands? Of course there are. These are just tools and if your using them all the time then buy good tools. You wont regret it.
I think this is a fair assessment. I got a good deal on the charge TTI a few years ago and dont plan to upgrade anytime soon (if you wanna call it that) but I really appreciate your value proposition at the beginning. Its magnacut with a bit driver you can buy a bunch of head and a ratcheting extension for for around 300 total. To me, thats a lot of functionality for the price and a decent blade in great steel.
I never carry my old (?) Wave. I keep it next to my bed, helped me easily many times because I knew right where to find it. tools in the truck,basement,garage,shed = stairs. I'm old. very good tool, bottle opener sucks, I drink good sodas and I don't want to chew up the tool poppin. otherwise, no complaints 10+ yrs. SOG Powerlock 20+ yrs, it's a little heavy,otherwise,no complaints.
found cutters on leatherman's have been hit and miss, still have my PST2 from 20 years ago that chipped out cutting light fencing wire. holding off on the Arc until XMAS, and ill retire the current wave ive been running as EDC for a while, thank you for the in depth review, has made my mind up
I have a charge that's about 20+ yrs old and has been in my pocket everyday, used to do farm chores, construction tasks, etc. It gets used almost everyday. Replaced the mini screwdriver with a rebar awl and has the old school 2 screwdriver bit holders instead of one. It's the ultimate multitool with a decent 154cm blade that's been resharpened hundreds of times. Wire cutters are used to cut thick bailing wire all the time without issue. Wouldn't trade it for anything.
I think we've all seen Tim Leatherman's "nail break" demonstration, he does it with an original Charge, if I recall but he has to stand on it. I wonder if you're not using enough force to cut the thick coat hanger? But I kinda worry about standing on the Arc with that much flex, the Charge+ I have doesn't do any of that so I also wonder how safe the Free technology is to stand on like Mr. Leatherman did on his Charge lol
It's not "the free technology" when it comes to the frame flex. It's the fact that instead of using a properly thick frame steel, they use this thin sheet of steel, and then slap a layer of stainless "scales" on the side. But the scales aren't really a part of the main structural frame. Which is why you get this level of flex in all directions. Compare the actual steel thickness in the frame to the Wave or the Surge...you'll see what I mean.
Seems like a good multitool. Love Leatherman quality. But with a Surge, Wave+, Wingman, and Skeletool, I don't see anything compelling enough to add another. The one handed stuff is nice but no game changer for me. But, that's just me
My wave+ doesn’t say USA ANYWHERE on the tool. I bought from a reputable Leatherman dealer in Canada, so did they not bother to put that on because the parts are sourced elsewhere? I know the packaging claimed USA made. Makes me wonder.
Again, like I said. All their tools are made in America, but for my understanding the plier heads material is not fully sourced in America or something like that.
Thank you for the review it was a huge help. I have several Leatherman tools, but I was looking for another one. Based on your review and another review I saw I think I will avoid the ARC, but you definitely sparked an interest in the Charge. Again, thanks for the review.
Love my charge plus in titanium with an s30v definitely wanna give magnacut as well as the free magnetic system for a spin maybe after Christmas I’ll get one and use my charge in a bugout bag or Vice versa 🤷♂️
The hangers that are wrecking everyone's cutters are right about the same 12 gauge wire as the fence/baling wire that wrecked my cutters and the other guys'. That combined with the body flex and super dull blade have led me to email Leatherman to try and return the tool. Haven't gotten an email back and it's been a couple days. Definitely not pleased with the Arc at all. As far as I'm concerned, I spent $230 on a super cool looking paper weight because this thing is not going in my motorcycle's compact onboard tool kit. I'll just deal with the extra space my Surge takes up. Good to see yours held up better than mine though. No way in Hades am I trusting mine, which sucks because the tool kit is exactly what I need to work on the bike and also has a few tools that will help in the wilderness.
I am a diehard Leatherman fan. Amazing products from an amazing company. I have several. As tempting as it is to "upgrade", i will stay with my Wave+ forever. Its with me all day everyday since 2020. It has never once let me down
To my horror the black Surge i bought this year as a back-up to the silver&black Surge i already own, came with those crappy cutters. I tested on a hardwire and it works really bad near the pivot point. If i cut with the straight section i get good results. Anyway, its not that a huge problem gor a Surge because the intended tool to cut hardwires is behind the pliers! Other tools tested: SkeletoolCX- very good, Knipex CoBoltS-its like i didnt cut anything, SoG PowerPint- need effort but cut well, SquirtPS4- amazing for its size, need force but cuts well and the most dissapointing-Gerber Suspension, need effort and dont cut near the pivot point, cut with greater effort on the flat side. So again, annoying but with great alternative on newer Surge.
Started to watch, but I quickly came to the decision that there's no point. I'm never going to spend this much on a multitool. I don't have any use for a multitool, let alone one this expensive. But I figure I'll comment to help the interactions
That’s a great point you made about the price vs other stuff . I’d never looked at it like that. Someone has to fiddle about manufacturing and assembling small footery components.
Newbie here. Mine should be able to cut barbed wire more than once. Have a reasonable saw. The knife should be able to feather stick. A good pair of scissors would also be useful. Can and bottle opener. Don't necessarily need screwdrivers. Focused on bushcraft. I could use some advice, and thanks in advance! Greets, TW.
i dont know about this one but i have been really disappointed with the fit and finished of leatherman tools, even the charge tti seems to be made bretty sloppy compared to the victorinox swiss tool. the swiss tools are just refined to near perfection
Awesome set of tools man ! Great review Aaron 🙌🏼✨ This on your table is a titanium flint keychain ? can you share the brand ? Thanks for the video and for sharing ! Cheers from Japan 🇯🇵
I am not sure if I missunderstood your explanation for „made in USA“. But this has nothing to do with the sourcing of the pliers. Made in USA requires 70% sourcing in USA. Leatherman lost a lawsuit on that matter and the stamp disappeared. The Arc is partially high priced because of that over 70% Made in USA.
Being a maintenance guy my primary source of cutting is a folding knife holding a razor blade, Opening it all day long its just only way to stay sharp. I really wish you could pick and choose options on these. I would be happier having a blank for a knife then the actual knife for one I carry at work.
I don't have an arc but I own at least twenty different multitools. I share your feelings on the Leatherman charge , that's my go 2 every time I've been using Leatherman tools for about thirty years now almost every day. I would trust almost every Leatherman I own to cut through barb wire or chain link fence without any issues. If the arc can't do that I'm not interested, especially at 230$
They are just a wee bit proud of this. A tiny chunk of Magnacut doesn't warrant the price point. I'd had see Leatherman would charge for aluminum scales & 440C tools
Thank you for review and explanation of tools of this new Leatherman knife. I have a number of multitools from this company. Always keep u0 reviews! Carry on.
I did a video on the Free magnetic tech and tested it by pouring metal shavings all over it here’s the link th-cam.com/video/ozK_HuVIYdM/w-d-xo.htmlsi=1pkOS6EcvyFtXzKz
I did a video on the Free magnetic tec and tested it by pouring metal shavings all over it here’s the link th-cam.com/video/ozK_HuVIYdM/w-d-xo.htmlsi=1pkOS6EcvyFtXzKz
@@gideonstactical Thanks for the response. I watched the video and my only concern there is that those fillings were clean and far courser than those produced by many shop processes. In my experience the fine metal particles are harder to clear from magnetic surfaces. Ultimately, I think I stick to my Wave+.
They will have to outsource production to a third country if they want to to survive as a business we as a country became more of a consumer than a producer because everyone wants to live like a rich person (myself included) is on the human nature but impossible to produce a high quality product with the salaries we want to have a nice way of living.
I dont know if I like the knife comparison. Partly because its not $230, theres taxes and such on top of it and where I live tax and import makes this a $400 tool, but I also dont like the comparison because its not the same product. The leatherman can do alot of things a plain knife cant, but these knives certainly can do alot that a multi tool cant too. Leatherman blades in particular have a habit of breaking. You pry with them, they break. You hammer on them, they break. You twist them too much, they break. You stab or chisel something, they break. For instance the Reiff knife you showed there has none of those issues. There is a reason why most people carry a separate knife along with their multi tool.
The back of my saw was really sharp I had to sand it down, otherwise pretty happy with it, price wise I fully agree compared to a normal knife I have no issues with it, loved my p4 though used it 15 times a day for the last 2 years. Now we'll see if the arc can go as long. I can't go back to tools on the inside man
This is $500 in Australia and unless you are loaded, you are not going to want to pay that much for something you could lose. There is no point either in having a leatherman in your shiny knife display.
great review - i have several multi tools but i have gotten away from them - to heavy and only really use one tool at a time - so many parts to break - if a tool is that important i find the smallest high quality separate tool to carry and i'm never gonna stop carrying my pocket knife so why am i gonna pay over 200 us dollars for a pair of pliers
Seeing this makes me want one but I have no issues with my p4. I wonder if leatherman would ever sell the blade by its self to upgrade other models? 🤷🏼♂️
If you get 10 years of use out of it, then it's like $2.30 a year. And it's got the USA made premium attached to it so that do be expected. All in all, it's reasonable for what it is. Magnetic retention is a no go for me as I work in a field that involves a lot of drilling metal and it would be super annoying to clean daily. But for off duty daily carry the Arc seems pretty great. All that said, I have a couple waves and 1 was recently upgraded (for free) to a wave+ after a warranty claim, so I don't need another multitool this size BUT if I didn't have them and was in the market for a one and done multitool this would be on my short list.
I purchased Arc, and I am regreting it. Guys buy Charge Plus, not Arc 😢 Ergonomic is terrible, and the FLEXY! is always giving me an impression that it is not worth of a invest tool. I always feel like I can't rely on this tool.
As usual we're getting screwed in Europe... These are 300 Euro... Reminder: 1 Euro is worth MORE than 1 dollar... So this is 320$ equivalent in the EU....
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10% Off First Purchase With Code HBGT10 (some exclusions apply)
Pretty disappointed !!!
The best Leatherman is The Dark Side !!!!
It at least has 2 new items.
A PEN and TWEEZERS !!!!!!!
They sold out in seconds so nobody got one.
I've been hounding them to do something like that again.
This is The Wave with better metal.
The Dark Side is the wave with a pen and tweezers, which I would personally use all the time.
Bug Leatherman to make that again !!!!!
Make it with this nice metal and design, that'd be great, but it's gotta have everything we see here with the pen and tweezers.
Otherwise, I rarely look at the Leatherman site.
Nothing THAT new and innovative...
At least to spend over 200 bucks on when my wave has everything you see here.
:-/
"may thy cutters chip and shatter" lol
Ive had a Wave+ for a few years and decided to upgrade to the Arc. So far ive seen a huge benefit to the Arc when trying to use the outside accessable scissors and one handed deployment of the bit driver and prybar. Not having to open the pliers to get to those extra tools saves a bunch of time and fiddling. Essentially a Wave+ with an improved user interface, I have been very happy so far with the purchase.
“Saves a bunch of time and fiddling.” Any product that reduces your work time is more valuable than people give credit for. Time is more precious than money, so whatever saves you time is worth its weight in gold.
Im still trying to break the habit of opening the pliers to access the tools. I also made the switch from the Wave+.
I’m the same, have had a couple Waves over the last 2 decades and this is basically an improved version of that for me. To make it nearly perfect for me at work I’d like to get the full bit kit to assemble my most useful set, an improved sheath I can carry horizontally (miss the one from my old Wave) and if they would only stock the ratcheting extender again…
@@DNMEBOYI’m having the same learning curve. I got it specifically for the external one handed tools, but still forget that’s where they are
@@DNMEBOYsame , I've popped open the pliers a few times to get to the bit driver lol.
Thought I would agree with this until I EDC'd the Arc for a while. The Arc's one handed operation makes for a significantly more refined tool. On the job site, situational awareness and focus is *premium*. Being the guy who reaches one hand into his pocket and without even having to look down has the right tool selected by the time it's raised into his workspace is a BIG difference from being the guy that has to put down his coffee first and fumble with two hands and two eyes occupied for 10-15 seconds to get the right tool out. The Arc sets you up to be the first guy, not the second guy, and that's where I want to be.
with the 30% off on leatherman website paid 160 ( like 175 to my door) and for that USA made magnacut even forgetting about the rest of the tools seems like a pretty good deal
Looking for a second hand Arc at around 150-160. At that price, for the one handed opening, blade and magnet (which can be considered an unofficial tool if you drop a small metal item), it’d be a fair price.
I’ve had a Wave for over 10 years…
And I bought the Arc a week ago, the Arc is honestly an amazing tool … Magnacut, and just the easy access and dexterity on it makes it the best multi tool I’ve ever owned..
Wow! I guess I'm a loser. I work construction and use my knife everyday. Paid about $20 and thought I was going fancy. Had it 15 years now; she still gets the job done and let's me put a check in the bank and food on the table. 😢
Sounds kinda like you are winning 👍
On a side note about the price, if you are a veteran, check out the military discount at Leatherman. I actually bought the Arc for $160. I couldn't pass that up. Best military discount I've ever gotten i think. BTW, I love the Arc, and would have bought it at regular price eventually.
Oh very nice info that for sharing!!
Leatherman offers a 30% medical personnel discount as well
@@thereisnowayiamgivingyoumy9066and teachers
Thanks for the tip. Just ordered.
Also a 30% teacher or school staff discount.
The Arc is basically the Wave+ on steroids. Being able to access all the tools one handed is a game changer. My Surge will still be my edc for work but after work its gonna be the Arc.
I honestly have no problem one handing all the tools on my wave. It's loose enough to flick it and it opens up like butterfly knife... I do get the all outside tool advantage, but some tools seem to be made strangely to work with the magnets like the strippers on the awl.
@@AtomicBleachyeah the tool set on the arc sucks
I just ordered my Arc a few days ago and can't wait to get it in my hands an try it out,not sure if I wan to void the warranty an swopp out the bit exchanger to the half size an 1/4 size like next level edc did an make it more versatile an not have to worry about the Leatherman prepritory bits,just wondering,cause it costs a bit of money so I'm still not sure I wanna void my warranty in case I don't like it an it breaks on me,I already got it customized engraved with my name on it an a Kool pattern too.
Nah. It's more like the Wave+ on creatine.
@@TheHyde8875 , yeah I agree,I love my new Arc
$100 more than the p2 honestly isn’t that bad for extra tools plus a coated Magnacut blade. If my P2 ever fails me I would gladly pay $230 for a good multitool.
I kept reading that as PM2 and was like dang.. he really knows how to stretch a knife 😅
@@Errcycome too 😂😂
I had a response from leatherman about cutters they said there engineering team immediately tested there current inventory to diagnose the cause. Through there tests, they found that some lots of replaceable wire cutters did not meet expectations. Said they will send me replacements.
Must be my issue. The ones on my charge crumbled.
Mine worked as expected. No issues with coat hanger wire and other treacherous obstacles.
Good to hear. Sounds like it may be a bad batch
Nice honest review. People are kinda funny sometimes. They have no problem paying 160-180$ for a bugout made of plastic with a s30v blade but are also complaining about the Arc at 230$😅. I’m a knife enthusiast and for me,personally, 230$ for a tool i really enjoy everyday with a Magnacut blade is a decent price. If i had to only keep one LM it would be my surge tho. But i’m really enjoying my Arc. Time will tell if it’ll keep its place tho! Thanks for the video man!
The Arc is in Switzerland 320 dollar's. Ridiculous.
I agreed 👍
@@Lion_Hamza euro prices are crazy on a lot of things from what i can see…
Received mine a few weeks ago after loosing my Wave. Had a second thought because of the price here in Europe (300$give or take)
I had many occasions to use it for precise jobs ( thanks to the mini screwdriver) or more demanding using pliers, scissors ( far better than my wave), the amazing blade, the file on soft steel, the screw driver, almost every tool. I used to carry a SAK as edc, now it spend a lot of time in my drawer.
In short, a great tool except that I’m left handed and opening the pliers one handed, is clearly not as easy for me than for a right handed user.
I added a small flashlight to the sheet, an electric saw blade for steel (fits perfectly in the bit holder) and a bit extender for non leatherman bits.
Didn’t regret my euros for a second
To each their own, but I’d rather buy a wave+ and if I needed a stronger knife to pair with it, I’d get a small Esee or even a mora for less then the price of the new arc. I think leatherman jumped on the magnacut train a little too early.
The flex is totally normal. It’s part of how the frame is designed. If you are worried, don’t be. I’ve had a p4 in my pocket and have used it every day for 2 years with zero issues. Hard use at times. It’s very solid.
Absolutely agree
Straight up 💯 me too .. P4 , and now My Arc , both amazing tools ⚒️
I can see myself using this for most of my light duty uses. I think it’s worth it, and I’ll purchase one eventually…..after Christmas lol
Haha good personal gift.
I'm glad you brought up the sharpness of the handles when the tool is closed up. It's not that big of an issue for small uses, but I would definitely see it being a little bit of a irritation over prolonged use. And how long did it take you to get flicking your blade open in one smooth go? Days ago I just got my arc, and I think I've only successfully flick with the thumb stud once or twice, and I have scared myself by running my finger across the blade a couple times, and boy is that thing sharp outta the box.
It is sharp for sure! That’s how mine operated out of the box. Maybe play around the pivots a little bit and see if you can loosen it up just a bit. It is a good blade.
Mine is similar; it's tight. I can't even flick it open with the thumb stud, let alone flip it open or closed. I might try adding a little lube to the pivots at some point, because the whole tool is a little stiff.
My Free P4 is a little looser, but I can't flip its blade open, either.
i just wish they have a series we can just pick the tools we want to have on there.....i know ppl have been modding tools, but why not just from the factory if thats allow, if anything, that would be the easiest thing for them to do since they already have the detailed engineering drawing, and i am sure they try to reuse parts from other tools whenever they can......
for now, i guess modding is still the only way to get a perfect arc for me.
499 bucks here in Australia! I will continue to use my Surge 2.
I just got the ARK and let me tell you...your Surge is better overall. I do like the ARK but my Surge isn't going anywhere.
Great review! Thank you!
Like many of you, I've carried a one-hand-open pocketknife, clipped to my pocket, for years and years. I spent years as a coffee equipment technician and there were countless times I'd be holding something inside a machine with one hand and it was SO helpful to be able to open my knife with one hand, use it for the task, then close it and put it away with that same hand and keep working. It became a natural frequent motion.
My wife and I are planning some touring through Canada and I can't imagine going through my days without a knife. I'll reach for it all the time. I read that in Canada they won't let you have knives that you can clearly open with one hand, so I'm hoping that this ARC is a happy medium. Even though you ~can~ open it with one hand, the knife has enough other purposes and its purpose in life isn't just being a one-hand-open pocketknife, so I hope it will be acceptable and fly under the radar. Thoughts?
The plier cutter problem isn't only that some break, but the shape of them are rounded near the pivot, causing that gap making it more difficult to make cuts. Try other LM pliers, you'll see the others are way better. For me, the P4 is just fine. Magnacut is super cool, but I'd rather have a blade that's easier to sharpen than one with better edge retention.
Magnacut is not difficult to sharpen. Snd you likely won’t have your do it much.
Magnacut is amazingly easy to sharpen.
@@gingebrien2408 how is it compared to 420hc? More difficult yeah?
@@MrSoup6029 how is it compared to 420hc? More difficult yeah?
Well the cutter isn't just an arc problem. Send in your p4 for warranty and they'll swap them for the new style cutter that are on the arc and every other recently made leatherman.
Sticking with my wave+ lol.......
My Free P4 has USA stamped on it. It is seized up and needs to go back to Leatherman but I did harvest the good cutters off of it for my ARC. The ARC is awesome. The price is fine. MagnaCut, the diamond file, good scissors, the bit changer and all the tools are outside accessible... None of the other Leatherman tools have all that. The ARC retired my Charge TTi. Still love that though.
Your point in the beginning about cost vs. common “mid-range” knives makes a lot of sense.
Thanks so much!
As a follower of your channel, I decided to make a channel as well. Love your content. It’s crazy the price of the arc! I’m impressed you can shut it by Itself. I can’t do that yet!
That is awesome!! Really appreciate it and I wish you all the best on your own channel and pray it grows.
If they made one in a less expensive steel at a much lower price, I would get one. For me, my multitool blades are for heavy duty or sketchy cutting. It's more of a sacrificial blade since I always have a pocket knife. A multitool with some whiz-bang knife steel isn't going to make me ditch my pocket knife.
the kershaw leek in magnicut is made in the US and is $100 on bladehq
That’s a deal even though I don’t really like the Leek design.
Ugh. Do I really need another Leatherman? Yeah I guess I do!
😮😮😮😮😮😮😅
P4 handles flexes the same way when squeezing the pliers and side to side motion as the ARC does. Not an issue. Clay Hayes is Alone season 8 winner and he used the P4 and swears by it. P4 plier head is stamped with USA. The ARC is $70 more than the P4 and you get Magnacut blade. Are there cheaper models and brands? Of course there are. These are just tools and if your using them all the time then buy good tools. You wont regret it.
I think this is a fair assessment. I got a good deal on the charge TTI a few years ago and dont plan to upgrade anytime soon (if you wanna call it that) but I really appreciate your value proposition at the beginning. Its magnacut with a bit driver you can buy a bunch of head and a ratcheting extension for for around 300 total. To me, thats a lot of functionality for the price and a decent blade in great steel.
I never carry my old (?) Wave. I keep it next to my bed, helped me easily many times because I knew right where to find it. tools in the truck,basement,garage,shed = stairs. I'm old. very good tool, bottle opener sucks, I drink good sodas and I don't want to chew up the tool poppin. otherwise, no complaints 10+ yrs. SOG Powerlock 20+ yrs, it's a little heavy,otherwise,no complaints.
I LOVE my P4….when you throw in those folders the price makes a lot more sense.
Nice to see Tommy the trail dog!
He is doing well!
found cutters on leatherman's have been hit and miss, still have my PST2 from 20 years ago that chipped out cutting light fencing wire. holding off on the Arc until XMAS, and ill retire the current wave ive been running as EDC for a while, thank you for the in depth review, has made my mind up
I have a charge that's about 20+ yrs old and has been in my pocket everyday, used to do farm chores, construction tasks, etc. It gets used almost everyday. Replaced the mini screwdriver with a rebar awl and has the old school 2 screwdriver bit holders instead of one. It's the ultimate multitool with a decent 154cm blade that's been resharpened hundreds of times. Wire cutters are used to cut thick bailing wire all the time without issue. Wouldn't trade it for anything.
I think we've all seen Tim Leatherman's "nail break" demonstration, he does it with an original Charge, if I recall but he has to stand on it. I wonder if you're not using enough force to cut the thick coat hanger? But I kinda worry about standing on the Arc with that much flex, the Charge+ I have doesn't do any of that so I also wonder how safe the Free technology is to stand on like Mr. Leatherman did on his Charge lol
It's not "the free technology" when it comes to the frame flex. It's the fact that instead of using a properly thick frame steel, they use this thin sheet of steel, and then slap a layer of stainless "scales" on the side. But the scales aren't really a part of the main structural frame. Which is why you get this level of flex in all directions. Compare the actual steel thickness in the frame to the Wave or the Surge...you'll see what I mean.
Seems like a good multitool. Love Leatherman quality. But with a Surge, Wave+, Wingman, and Skeletool, I don't see anything compelling enough to add another. The one handed stuff is nice but no game changer for me. But, that's just me
Its lighter
Smother
All tools out side
It would be awesome if they made one of these the size of the surge
My wave+ doesn’t say USA ANYWHERE on the tool. I bought from a reputable
Leatherman dealer in Canada, so did they not bother to put that on because the parts are sourced elsewhere? I know the packaging claimed USA made. Makes me wonder.
Again, like I said. All their tools are made in America, but for my understanding the plier heads material is not fully sourced in America or something like that.
Thank you for the review it was a huge help. I have several Leatherman tools, but I was looking for another one. Based on your review and another review I saw I think I will avoid the ARC, but you definitely sparked an interest in the Charge. Again, thanks for the review.
Leatherman are fixing the issues about the cutters.
Love my charge plus in titanium with an s30v definitely wanna give magnacut as well as the free magnetic system for a spin maybe after Christmas I’ll get one and use my charge in a bugout bag or Vice versa 🤷♂️
Hi, Does your Leatherman have signs of erosion or rust? Mine does and it is new 😢
No, but I live in a very low human environment
The hangers that are wrecking everyone's cutters are right about the same 12 gauge wire as the fence/baling wire that wrecked my cutters and the other guys'. That combined with the body flex and super dull blade have led me to email Leatherman to try and return the tool. Haven't gotten an email back and it's been a couple days. Definitely not pleased with the Arc at all. As far as I'm concerned, I spent $230 on a super cool looking paper weight because this thing is not going in my motorcycle's compact onboard tool kit. I'll just deal with the extra space my Surge takes up. Good to see yours held up better than mine though. No way in Hades am I trusting mine, which sucks because the tool kit is exactly what I need to work on the bike and also has a few tools that will help in the wilderness.
I EDC a Free P2 since it came out and use it regularly. I've never had build quality issues except for the blade dulling and scissors cutting poorly.
I am a diehard Leatherman fan. Amazing products from an amazing company. I have several. As tempting as it is to "upgrade", i will stay with my Wave+ forever. Its with me all day everyday since 2020. It has never once let me down
To my horror the black Surge i bought this year as a back-up to the silver&black Surge i already own, came with those crappy cutters. I tested on a hardwire and it works really bad near the pivot point. If i cut with the straight section i get good results. Anyway, its not that a huge problem gor a Surge because the intended tool to cut hardwires is behind the pliers!
Other tools tested: SkeletoolCX- very good, Knipex CoBoltS-its like i didnt cut anything, SoG PowerPint- need effort but cut well, SquirtPS4- amazing for its size, need force but cuts well and the most dissapointing-Gerber Suspension, need effort and dont cut near the pivot point, cut with greater effort on the flat side.
So again, annoying but with great alternative on newer Surge.
Edit: i watch Arc videos as i watch rantings about woke movies. I hate them (Leatherman) for becoming Apple.
Good work, please try the surge on that coat hanger
Yes!
Great in-depth video, cheers mate from James in England 👍🏻
My 1997 Supertool version has the USA stamp on it.
Nice!!
Started to watch, but I quickly came to the decision that there's no point. I'm never going to spend this much on a multitool. I don't have any use for a multitool, let alone one this expensive. But I figure I'll comment to help the interactions
That’s a great point you made about the price vs other stuff . I’d never looked at it like that. Someone has to fiddle about manufacturing and assembling small footery components.
Is there a hanger-cutting epidemic I'm not aware of? I may need to update my prepper skills
Hahah no it’s just a good way to test the cutters if you did have to go through some pretty heavy gauge metal.
Newbie here. Mine should be able to cut barbed wire more than once. Have a reasonable saw. The knife should be able to feather stick. A good pair of scissors would also be useful. Can and bottle opener. Don't necessarily need screwdrivers. Focused on bushcraft. I could use some advice, and thanks in advance!
Greets, TW.
I have the p4. Don’t need this, but the quick opening main blade is why I’ll get it eventually
That is a major upgrade. They need to start doing that are on all future designs, giving them thumb studs with faster action.
Annnnd, I got it. Haha. Thought I’d wait till I lost my p4, nope. The quick blade and not carrying an other knife makes it perfect
i dont know about this one but i have been really disappointed with the fit and finished of leatherman tools, even the charge tti seems to be made bretty sloppy compared to the victorinox swiss tool. the swiss tools are just refined to near perfection
Awesome set of tools man !
Great review Aaron 🙌🏼✨
This on your table is a titanium flint keychain ?
can you share the brand ?
Thanks for the video and for sharing !
Cheers from Japan 🇯🇵
Do they have versions of it without a coated blade? Kinda pointless to coat a Magnacut blade other than for looks and to bring the price up.
They currently do not, but don’t bother me.
I am not sure if I missunderstood your explanation for „made in USA“. But this has nothing to do with the sourcing of the pliers. Made in USA requires 70% sourcing in USA. Leatherman lost a lawsuit on that matter and the stamp disappeared. The Arc is partially high priced because of that over 70% Made in USA.
Correct
Why in the hell did they DLC magnacut?
I was happy to see USA on the pliers
Being a maintenance guy my primary source of cutting is a folding knife holding a razor blade, Opening it all day long its just only way to stay sharp. I really wish you could pick and choose options on these. I would be happier having a blank for a knife then the actual knife for one I carry at work.
230 bucks!? Here in Canada it's 315
I don't have an arc but I own at least twenty different multitools. I share your feelings on the Leatherman charge , that's my go 2 every time I've been using Leatherman tools for about thirty years now almost every day. I would trust almost every Leatherman I own to cut through barb wire or chain link fence without any issues. If the arc can't do that I'm not interested, especially at 230$
Thanks Aaron, once again great review😊
My pleasure!
If they would just make a wave with better steel that would be nice and yes I know about the charge tti
Wave + magnacut 💥
They are just a wee bit proud of this. A tiny chunk of Magnacut doesn't warrant the price point. I'd had see Leatherman would charge for aluminum scales & 440C tools
Thank you for review and explanation of tools of this new Leatherman knife. I have a number of multitools from this company. Always keep u0 reviews! Carry on.
We need a P6! Something that's beefy like the Surge but on the free frame. Man that would be awesome!
I would be interested to see how exposure to metal fillings and dust affect the operation of the ARC.
I did a video on the Free magnetic tech and tested it by pouring metal shavings all over it here’s the link th-cam.com/video/ozK_HuVIYdM/w-d-xo.htmlsi=1pkOS6EcvyFtXzKz
I did a video on the Free magnetic tec and tested it by pouring metal shavings all over it here’s the link th-cam.com/video/ozK_HuVIYdM/w-d-xo.htmlsi=1pkOS6EcvyFtXzKz
@@gideonstactical Thanks for the response. I watched the video and my only concern there is that those fillings were clean and far courser than those produced by many shop processes. In my experience the fine metal particles are harder to clear from magnetic surfaces.
Ultimately, I think I stick to my Wave+.
100% agree with your review. My charge comes with me everywhere
Great video thanks. I just ordered my ark, My wingman barely flexes at all.
Good luck! 👍
They will have to outsource production to a third country if they want to to survive as a business we as a country became more of a consumer than a producer because everyone wants to live like a rich person (myself included) is on the human nature but impossible to produce a high quality product with the salaries we want to have a nice way of living.
I have a December 21 surge that has the new style replaceable cutters and I still haven't shattered them.
GOD Bless You Brother
More money than sense shoppers will be thrilled!
Haha!! I hear that
I dont know if I like the knife comparison. Partly because its not $230, theres taxes and such on top of it and where I live tax and import makes this a $400 tool, but I also dont like the comparison because its not the same product. The leatherman can do alot of things a plain knife cant, but these knives certainly can do alot that a multi tool cant too. Leatherman blades in particular have a habit of breaking. You pry with them, they break. You hammer on them, they break. You twist them too much, they break. You stab or chisel something, they break. For instance the Reiff knife you showed there has none of those issues.
There is a reason why most people carry a separate knife along with their multi tool.
The back of my saw was really sharp I had to sand it down, otherwise pretty happy with it, price wise I fully agree compared to a normal knife I have no issues with it, loved my p4 though used it 15 times a day for the last 2 years. Now we'll see if the arc can go as long. I can't go back to tools on the inside man
Im good with my charge Ti, and i have the Rev and Crunch, no more for me
"Trash or The Holy Grail." Classic either/or fallacy. Great CONTENT, as usual.
Haha, true but it’s hard to title a video. “Is the Leatherman arc trash, perfect, or a decent tools for some of you.”
@@gideonstactical Just messing with you. Keep up the hyperbolic titles, and some of the best gear reviews on the 'tube.
Speedgoat! Love the design and thinned behind the edge but the handle felt too cramped. I’ll have to try some of his larger stuff
This is $500 in Australia and unless you are loaded, you are not going to want to pay that much for something you could lose. There is no point either in having a leatherman in your shiny knife display.
Just ordered one today...30% code got me
I would like to give the ARC a try but the price drives my away. Maybe if I can find a used one for a good price in a couple years I'll pick it up.
I have an 04' Charge Ti that I wish never bought. I used to have 2, but I gave one away. I like this one but I'm needing to buy a MUT
great review - i have several multi tools but i have gotten away from them - to heavy and only really use one tool at a time - so many parts to break - if a tool is that important i find the smallest high quality separate tool to carry and i'm never gonna stop carrying my pocket knife so why am i gonna pay over 200 us dollars for a pair of pliers
Seeing this makes me want one but I have no issues with my p4. I wonder if leatherman would ever sell the blade by its self to upgrade other models? 🤷🏼♂️
Would I be able to swap the magnacut blade into my P4?
I would like you to actually use the cutter part of the tool. You were using the stripping tool.
If you get 10 years of use out of it, then it's like $2.30 a year. And it's got the USA made premium attached to it so that do be expected. All in all, it's reasonable for what it is.
Magnetic retention is a no go for me as I work in a field that involves a lot of drilling metal and it would be super annoying to clean daily. But for off duty daily carry the Arc seems pretty great.
All that said, I have a couple waves and 1 was recently upgraded (for free) to a wave+ after a warranty claim, so I don't need another multitool this size BUT if I didn't have them and was in the market for a one and done multitool this would be on my short list.
$23.00 a year
@@phil4203 100 years then lol 😆
The other 2 tools also didn't manage to cut that 11 guage coat hanger?
I was looking for breaking or damage. I haven’t tried my surge on the 11 gauge
@@gideonstacticaldo it! Lol 😆
only 230 dollars. rookie numbers. i spent 300 on mine with some engravings. was it worth it for the money? i dunno. but i bought it anyways.
$500 for the Arc in Australia. Leatherman can kick rocks !
I purchased Arc, and I am regreting it. Guys buy Charge Plus, not Arc 😢 Ergonomic is terrible, and the FLEXY! is always giving me an impression that it is not worth of a invest tool. I always feel like I can't rely on this tool.
I am sorry this happened to you! I would agree overall the charge is better
Flex lol its because its folds its not a crescent wrench nerds 😂
I agree.
As usual we're getting screwed in Europe... These are 300 Euro... Reminder: 1 Euro is worth MORE than 1 dollar... So this is 320$ equivalent in the EU....
LEATHER MAN 🇺🇸💪🏼
Super tool 300 24/7 for life
For hard 🇺🇸working 💪🏼people !!!
$230US is easier to swallow than the $499AU price advertised on Leatherman's Australian website. Ouch!