Leatherman Surge Multi-tool

Best multitool ever – I've had an original Leatherman Supertool since 1994, and added a Skeletool about ten years ago. The Surge, however, is the tool I have wanted all along. I like it so much I'm about to buy a second to keep in the car. Why? 1. It feels like a real tool, not just a small emergency-only maybe-you-can-get-way-with-it tool. The downside to this is that it's larger and heavier than many other tools.

2. The interchangeable T-shank means I can put any jigsaw blade on it I like.

3. The opening and closing of everything is so good and so fast. The blades just flick out and lock. The Supertool in comparison is so clumsy and awkward.

4. The scissors are large enough to actually work.

5. I did buy the bit set to keep with it in the car.

I mean, overall, it's just got everything on it and feels really good. I have the black oxide one, which feels a bit less slippery than the polished one (not that that was ever a problem for me with the other tools).

One of the best multi-tools on the market – Multi-tools are by nature a compromise. Chances are with a Leatherman you won't have the right tool for the job but you'll probably have a tool that you can make do with. To be honest for what they are they're about the best investment you could make. It is well made, there is a range of different accessories and spare parts available, and for about 70% of jobs it is all I need.

New Leatherman surge review – I bought the new Leatherman surge with the replaceable wire cutters. I had to shop around to get a good price and eventually bought it over the net, price is just too expensive from most shops here in Adelaide, generally over $200. That said the product is second to none. Quality is fantastic, as it should be for the money. The pliers are as good as proper pliers if not better and with the replaceable cutters I'm not worried to cut through thick wire etc.

Knife is a good size and comes sharp out the box. Scissors are also big enough to use easily and are useful unlike most scissors on pocket knives / multitools. The file and saw blades are interchangeable and replaceable so like the plier blades there's no worries about wearing them out. All the tools have locks to hold them open so you won't cut yourself while using them.

Be aware though, this tool is huge and it's heavy. If they made it lighter though it would likely compromise the quality. I have reasonably big hands, if they where any smaller I think this tool could be difficult to use. It's weight isn't a huge issue for me, it spends most of its time in the car or my pack. I imagine it would be pretty uncomfortable to wear on a belt for along period of time.

Overall a great tool with fantastic quality but size and weight probably rule it out for everyday carry / use. Great quality. Good selection of practical tools. Price is too expensive, you'll need to shop around.

7 Years good – Ive had this tool as my daily companion for 7 years now. For the Work I do (Process Technician: Powerstation) its very useful. Ive had a few Multi tools over the years and I would only buy Leatherman Brand. Ownersip of the Surge has been a little frustrating because the clip which holds in the reversible screwdriver blades went "Bye Bye" very early. I currently have cello tape on it to stop it falling out.

The tool is large, heavy and perfect for what I use it for. I have undone bolts using the Plyers....its tough OK. This is a robust, beautifully made industrial tool, large blades etd. Everything else will seem like a silly little toy after you become accustomed to the Surge.

A criticism of the Surge would be that to get full use of the drivers its best to have a driver kit and extension which you must purchase separately. I'm really being picky here because this tool is amazing and made to a fantastic quality. I have quite literally been abusing this tool for 3 years and it only has a couple of shortcomings. I was given a free Wave by my employer but its in a drawer, the Surge comes out on the job with me.

Buy with confidence this is one of the most serious multi-tools money can buy made by the First choice amongst the worlds offshore and onshore technicians, miners and military.

P.S I wore out the supplied pouch made from Leather. I have replaced the sheath with a nylon and velcro sheath from Leatherman. It is vastly superior because there is zero lateral movement of what is a quite heavy tool (for its size).

OEM Part # =Leatherman Sheath X-Large Molle BRN (930366) Big, usefull and Robust Interchangable blade clip fell-off