Revisiting the Leatherman FREE K4

I recently used this multi tool fairly exclusively on my latest job site. While generally I like this knife quite a bit, I found it was just a bit lacking overall.
Leatherman FREE K4 - amzn.to/2GUqPl1
Leatherman FREE K2 - amzn.to/2SknYHj
Leatherman FREE K4X - amzn.to/370fomD
Leatherman FREE K2X - amzn.to/370XKio
Leatherman Wave+ - amzn.to/37154dQ
Leatherman Surge - amzn.to/2Uu8EL1

[@txtoolcrib]

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[@repro7780]

I was at a store last week, and a little kid grabbed one and said " Hey dad, its free!" lol

[@txtoolcrib]

Haha! Now that’s pretty funny.

[@bahjinelson3986]

Your long term reviews are the absolute best. Most reviewers just do another review and completely overlook their experience with the different features. You give us your experience and thoughts about how the tool actually performed and how useful it actually is. Thank you.

[@ryanduff1228]

I agree

[@simonforget280]

Still not convinced. I really wished the Free series had a bit holder. That would have made me switch in a pinch! Keep up your excellent work!

[@txtoolcrib]

It would be much better imo as well.

[@BigMoe1010]

Bro what you need a bit kit for? You need to carry a ladder around too? Duck man. You EDC bros are loosing it

[@fishingjoe683]

For the price you would think they had a better steel for the blade

[@cpaul57]

Overpriced

[@roy-batty]

The whole Free series for me is a sleek under 2 pound sword being replaced with a rough concrete reinforcement bar. Nothing against reinventing the wheel, but some basic stuff slipped through the cracks. Not even going into the price.

[@dldissolving2005]

Not a fan of that awl either. I use mine daily. However I'm not punching holes in leather... more of a lite duty scraper.

[@Cpt.BEARDless]

Free P4 is much much better than you think it is imo.

[@MNessmith]

Scored one for $35 on that big auction site. Can't wait to get it.

[@CircuitsAndStrings]

The K4 has become my main EDC. I am an office worker and it works great for me. A pocket clip and one hand opening are really important to me for EDC. I even use it at home for light wood carving on some of my musical instrument projects. Even though it has limitations (like not having pliers) I still get a ton of use out of it. But I know I am a weird Leatherman fan. My other favorites that I carry everyday is a Tread Tempo, and a Squirt PS4.

[@txtoolcrib]

I like the K4 quite a bit.

[@T.Sizzle]

We all have to do what works for us. I’m a K4 fan as well. Just different reasons.

[@01rnr01]

You can have bigger pliers multitools scattered around in the car and a few other places ;)

[@Pinki2019]

I'd prefer if Leatherman put out tools that complement each other. Like, you could have this knife with some really good scissors and maybe one other high usage tool, and then have one of the small Free multitools designed to go with with it and add tools instead of repeating them. Then neither of them would be too thick. With Swiss army knives I like to find pairs that go well together, like for example the Pioneer plus the Ambassador or the Manager. Keeps things slim in the pocket. Gerber is releasing some little multitools this year that are intended to be paired with a pocket knife. I like that approach.

[@txtoolcrib]

I know what you’re saying, and I agree.

[@choltzapple]

The original tools did this very well. Check out the PST and Micra combo. Leatherman could look to their past for some great ideas, IMO.

[@nicklim9299]

I always love your honest reviews.. no BS. Every Leatherman has their pro n con..just gotta get 1 that's suits your job or needs..I have quite a number of leatherman..and my top 3 are the Wave + , ST300 and Skeletool CX. Based on functionality, range of tools and usability..

[@bahjinelson3986]

Totally agree about the flat driver. I need a good driver more than a package opener and it would have been if it wasn't sharpened. Leatherman, just leave the flat blade a flat blade and add a small wharncliffe like the victorinox electrician.

[@Setnja92]

This looks like the right direction for the Leatherman. Good looking folding knife with few tools as a bonus is kinda unique and unoccupied space on the market. Yes, the big Victorinox folders (111 mm and 130 mm) are great, but this is quite different. Are there any other knives like these on the market?

[@T.Sizzle]

I can’t complain about the thickness of the K4 in good conscience. That extra thickness enabled extra functionality. It’s not overbearing at all to me. My only criticisms are that I wish it came with a thumb stud (not a big deal at all, I just put one on) and lastly, it really needs that 154CM.

[@txtoolcrib]

Maybe later versions of these knives will have an upgraded steel option. Hopefully.

[@neeko7878]

I’m really attracted to the blade shape. Very useful beefy design. It is at the max extent of thickness it appears though. Great review. Glad to know these are out now. 😂

[@txtoolcrib]

Thank you.

[@cjlane4465]

The triangle style grip fit my hand phenomenally. It isn't a combat knife obviously, but its balance is also extremely well, so flipping and manipulating the blade was very smooth. It felt as if leatherman really did their homework on these k knifes

[@pablocortes6950]

Thank you for you honest opinion. I just ordered mine today and will recieve it tomorrow. Looking forward 👌 to it. I also believe it's over priced a little....

[@davidnagore725]

Your comments about the combination tool are spot on. In addition to the standard stuff (can/bottle opening and wire stripping), I've used the one on my old Blast for the following tasks with adequate or better results: box cutting/breakdown, awl, scoring, cordage cutting, pencil sharpening, and eating (skewer-like). I'm sure I missed some, even, and the list keeps growing. In fact, I consider it essential when considering other multitools. (For the sake of full disclosure, I did edge up the hook portion a bit.)

[@mohdnazrien2288]

Better go cjrb folding knife if you love knife. For the price,you got better folding knife with good material. If you want to use multitools,better buy Leatherman wave plus or free p2. There is option better than this overpriced k4

[@looooooooot432]

I'm an automation tech and have been EDCing one of these since Christmas along with a Wingman and a 3.5mm flathead. Between these 3 tools I can do 90% of my daily tasks without issue. Only complaint is that I broke off the pocket clip but replaced it with a paracord lanyard and honestly I like it better since the grip is slightly more comfortable.

[@txtoolcrib]

I have found this knife to be quite handy, more than I originally thought it would be.

[@charlieward7606]

im also a mechanic and it seems to be perfect for me, one hand deployable screwdrivers and good knife, i also got a style ps for my keys for small plier jobs, any more than that im grabbing my tools anyway. at least thats my theory, the price for one in europe is making me hesitate a bit especially for 420hc but i think im going to bite the bullet

[@G3nsis1]

The K4 is superior when it comes to working retail. Its a great work knife because of the box cutter edge. I think the bottle opener should have been located on the back of the knife blade in a closed position. I would like to have seen an interchangeable bit since it was 90 dollars

[@chrishyde7798]

Quality review, excellent creative content. Thank you for this video about this knife. I was curious about this knife and tools and I think you answered my question.

[@txtoolcrib]

Very glad I could help. Thank you very much for taking the time to watch.

[@Carbonero1747]

As an alternative in the 85 dolar range, the victorinox Hercules, lockable blade and two full dimensional Phillips screwdrivers

[@txtoolcrib]

I have seen that one. I will try to acquire one soon.

[@zenderfall]

Hercules is not one-hand opening main blade tho, so a huge knock for lack of that.

[@magicdave93]

While been a great tool it’s no good for me because it has a locking blade as I live in the UK.’ I can get away with plier based tools just lol. I’m with you on the awl it’s doesn’t nowhere near look as good as the victorinox one. Great in-depth review as always mate! 👍🙂

[@txtoolcrib]

Thank you sir.

[@kvernesdotten]

So I have a Surge for when I know I will be doing work, and I have a modified tinker deluxe for when I just put something in my pocket for convenience. Im not looking to replace either of those, but both of them have the weakness of their knives not really being very good knives, like even a 10 dollar Mora is leeeeeagues above them as far as a knife goes, so ive been very interested in this concept where the item is mainly a decent knife, but with some multitool functionality to them. Adding something like victorinox tweezers or something to this one, it kinda seems like a perfect fit so far. If they made one of these with magnacut steel and tweezers from the t4, I would be in love.

[@krkrbbr]

they could just put a can opener you can just use it as a pack opener too

[@txtoolcrib]

That’s a thought too.

[@gigiundercover]

Hi Ben, how about the lateral blade play and also the other implements' lateral play on the K4? Is there any? I found it affecting somehow all implements of the P4 and the distributor's answer was that it comes with the magnetic architecture. Great video, btw!

[@txtoolcrib]

I haven’t noticed any lateral movement in the blade. I also noticed that in the P-series tools. However, the blade stock is quite a bit thicker on the K4. It also locks really solidly. Those are contributing factors as to why I like it so much.

[@mikelgeymsige8987]

I would like a version with a large saw instead of the scissors to compete with the Victorynox Rangergrip.

[@charlieward7606]

wont the serrated blase version work?

[@johnparinellojr.2035]

I've said it before and I'll say it again, leatherman needs to have an add your own tools option. Since you carry a surge do you need two pairs of scissors? I carry a super tool 300 I also have a style cs which covers my scissors, and twessers, the small screwdriver works great for glasses and small toys. Long story short I have all my bases covered. I like this tool I want to buy one, but I can't find a use for it. I'd like leatherman to make a carabiner multi tool that can be used for climbing and holding on to my keys.

[@The_sinner_Jim_Whitney]

I’ve carried my Free P4 almost every day (if I need to look sorta nice, I’ll just carry my S110V Spyderco PM3 with a Casey Lynch titanium deep clip for its slimness and stealthiness, but normally the Leatherman doesn’t look weird) for about two years, and it’s almost perfect. The file should be a real file, not the stumpy pitiful one that it has, and I immediately reshaped the awl tip to a traditional pointed awl shape. I’d also rather have a blade shaped more like the Free K series shape, and I’d gladly pay extra for better blade steel because I have to sharpen it a lot more than my nice pocketknives, but all minor quibbles. It’ll do everything I really want it to, and is well-made and feels nice and I love it. I also have a Surge that I put on my belt for when I’m camping, it’s a great tool but just too big for everyday carry. I got my buddy a K4 for Christmas this year, and I opened it because I wanted to put a really good 3-angle edge on the blade with my Wicked Edge (best sharpening system known to man, it’s not even close), so I’ve been handling and playing with it a lot this last couple weeks. I might just have to get one or a K2 for myself to bridge the gap between just a knife and my P4. Like, carry my Spydie when I’m going out, the K2/4 when I’m just doing normal stuff, and the P4 when I’m at work (IBEW journeyman electrician), building something, working on cars/bikes, etc. I really like how good it feels and how well it works. Pretty impressed. If it could be gotten with a quality blade steel like 154CM, S30V, etc., it’d be a done deal. Good review, I agree with you on most of the points you made.

[@txtoolcrib]

I agree, they really should offer more of their tools with higher quality blade steel. I think they would be surprised how many people would opt to upgrade over standard versions.

[@cwsmith17]

Outstanding review. Wish I could here you without turning my speakers to 100 Lol

[@txtoolcrib]

I've been trying to work on that.

[@JAIMEBEGOOD]

I used my SkullCandy earbuds and heard you fine...Thanks for the review.

[@nunyafuckinbizniz]

Leatherman tool user group is waiting for you on facebook, another excellent review.

[@txtoolcrib]

Thank you. I've been very busy the last month or so, I will eventually get to it. Thanks again for watching.

[@T.Sizzle]

That’s true. We are.

[@nbal4243]

Leatherman K4 or a benchmade bugout

[@kennywheelus6857]

I agree,I wished it had 154 cm or s30v blade,I want one now,I think I'll get the k-2,I don't really need the scissors,since I already carry my surge religiously,it's always on my side since I bought the 3-d printed sheath from hold my gear off Etsy,it's been great for my surge,easy to clip on an off my belt an holds my surge snuggly until Im ready to deploy it,I do love the sheep foot design of the blade on here though.

[@jf_c137]

Awl is horrible. Unfortuntately the K4 is waaay overpriced.

[@JoshTalksTools]

Have a K4x and love it BUT the price would be much more justified if it had a bit holder. I think you're right about the awl too, would rather it had a saw which would make a great alternative to an SAK Trekker!

[@GPadugan]

it's 2024, who the hell needs an awl at all let alone enough to have on your person at all times?

[@txtoolcrib]

Interesting way you put that. My wife tells me things like that. It’s 2024, why would you carry cash? A couple of years ago I was on the interstate down in Louisiana in a huge rain storm. Traffic in front of me came to a screeching halt, so I and the driver in the other lane had no choice but to go to opposing ditches in order to avoid a pile up. When the rain cleared, we found ourselves buried in mud. The other driver had called a tow truck. Tow truck gets there, but the guy doesn’t have any cash on him, and the operator refused to take a credit card. I on the other hand did have cash, because I always carry an emergency fund of cash. I got pulled out and was on my way. My point is this. YOU, might never need an awl because, as you so eloquently put it, it’s 2024. And if that is the case, that’s fine. It opens up your options for other multi tools. But please don’t presume to decide for everyone else what they may or may not need in a multi tool.

[@jamesmcnary4939]

Tim Leatherman’s #1 must have tool is the pliers. I just think it’s funny the company is making knives.

[@simonh2011]

I love this thing! Someone needs to make an aftermarket Magnacut blad for it and it would be unbeatable

[@mattkincannon6422]

Good review. I also need plier based multi tools for work. I tend to carry my Gerber Centerdrive at work. Occasionally I’ll carry my free P2 at work but I have gravitated more towards my K4 for my home carry. I’ve found that I don’t need the pliers often at home due to my tool bag being close. I have also found the awl makes an excellent finger nail cleaner 😂 that’s about the only use it gets from me but I use it for that almost daily lol.

[@kixb4632]

love the vids man, you get right down to it! subscribed!

[@txtoolcrib]

Thank you, I really appreciate it. Thank you for subscribing as well.

[@jmfeelding6736]

I bought the K4 because of this video. Thanks Ben.

[@txtoolcrib]

jm feelding you’re very welcome. How do you like it?

[@jmfeelding6736]

@@txtoolcrib I’ve had it now for a few weeks. I really like it. It’s a bit too aggressive to take to work. My job allows the charge+ anti the wave+. I’m definitely impressed with how they made everything a one hand operation. Thanks for the work you do.

[@r2stik]

ADD TORX!!!!

[@bahjinelson3986]

If you remove the pocket clip, the knife is one of the most comfortable out there, but then you have no clip.

[@przemekmatczak3859]

you convinced me and bought this knife / multitool. great review, by the way :)

[@txtoolcrib]

Thank you, let me know how you end up liking it.

[@przemekmatczak3859]

​@@txtoolcrib I like this knife, before I used benchmade griptilian and Leatherman Squirt PS4 and it was a good combination for me. It is a pity that the blade is not of better steel (154cm or s30v), but you talked about it in the video :). Now I'm thinking about Leatherman Charge Plus, because Free K4 still takes up a lot of space in my pocket, and I could use more functions.

[@michaelk487]

cool

[@OutsideTheTargetDemographic]

Good morning Ben.

[@txtoolcrib]

Good morning.

[@justinhunt3687]

I'd definitely pay to have 154cm.

[@txtoolcrib]

Me too!

[@vernongambill921]

Can you put a saw blade in the k4

[@kc0lif]

i like my p4 no problem here

[@My03Tundra]

Hello, again. Another great video.

[@gevinpatil110]

i just want to ask which is sharper leatherman blade or swiss blade.

[@txtoolcrib]

Out of the factory, both come out exceptionally sharp.

[@gevinpatil110]

@@txtoolcrib i mean which is better choose one leatherman or swiss which stays sharp for long time and which is razor sharp

[@cpaul57]

i wish there was a exchangeable bit holder

[@txtoolcrib]

I think most people would agree.

[@yashas38]

Can you make Free P4 video like this?

[@txtoolcrib]

I will put it on the list.

[@yashas38]

@@txtoolcrib ok sir

[@JohnnyJuke]

Folder of choice plus the Surge equals done and done.

[@txtoolcrib]

True.

[@dc76384]

Hey, leatherman...ditch the secondary implements, and make this a stand alone knife. Alot of gents carry your multi tools , and a stand alone pocket knife give them a good quality no nonsense knife and itll sell like mad.

[@txtoolcrib]

I would be pretty happy with it if it was just a knife and a bit exchanger.

[@dc76384]

@@txtoolcrib If they slimmed it down, I'd be all in.

[@txtoolcrib]

I can understand that, it is a bit on the thick side.

[@Ukraine-is-Corrupt]

G'Day Ben. I purchased a K4X recently & the movements on mine are quite stiff. The blade flips 'ok', but the rest of the tools are way too hard; there's no way it's a one hand tool (in my case) .... I'd like to loosen the components, but I don't have any torx bits. I can go & get some, but I don't know if they're imperial or metric .... Can you help me ?

[@DieselArcher]

I carry a surge for work, just bought the K4 for around the house and traveling based on your review so thanks. I also have a OHT, that I keep in my tool bag.

[@lindseysmith4849]

I went out and spent the money on this knife and wish I hadn’t. The tip of the knife broke off with very minimal work. And the machining of the scales was poor and was damaged straight out of the box.

[@txtoolcrib]

Well that's unfortunate. Did you get it warrantied?

[@stekel666]

15 minutes? Talking? Please

[@txtoolcrib]

You have a mute and scroll button right?

[@T.Sizzle]

EURL Brotec move on troll

[@mackjones7688]

I have the K2 and I have actually been able to open clamshell packaging and other plastic packages just fine with the package opener. Time will tell how long that cutting edge will last before I have to touch it up.

[@txtoolcrib]

It does work decent, but nothing like the Wingman.