Swiss Army Knife vs Leatherman Multitool

The great debate lives on! Swiss Army vs Leatherman, what one is better? In this video Jeff takes a close look at two very popular multi tools and compares both side by side. After we carefully analyze both multi tools Martin shares his opinion on what multi tool he prefers out in the field.
In this video Martin discusses Rhyolite, shows you how to gather it, then we make a few stone tools.
In a wilderness survival situation, primitive skills, bushcraft, and wilderness living skills can save your life. In this video we focus on primitive technology. If you enjoyed this video, give it a thumbs up, share it on social media and subscribe to Primitive Lifeways on KZbin. Find my website here:
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Swiss Multitool
• Swiss Army Knife vs Le...
Bushcraft, Primitive Skills, Primitive Technology, Wilderness Living, Survival, Survival Skills, Primitive Survival, Desert Survival, Wilderness Survival, Emergency Preparedness, Outdoor Skills, Outdoor Living, Edible Plants, Medicinal Plants, Archery, Hunting, Bow Making, Native American, American Survival,
Intro and exit Music by Dream Theater : On The Backs Of Angels

[@markfoley2602]

I watched the entire video expecting to see a Swiss Army vs. Leatherman battle to the death. While I am slightly disappointed in the lack of violence, this was a nicely objective review. Thanks!

[@tristinwilcox9518]

Mark Foley 😂

[@tristinwilcox9518]

I am literally crying of laughter

[@andrewmoon1898]

I have the Swiss champ, because it has everything I need on it. But my brother has the Leatherman. It’s swings and roundabouts, I prefer mine he prefers his. But we use them differently, with some common tasks in between. And that basically how you look at them, work out what you are going to use it for, and buy the one that suits you the best. No point in arguing over perspective.

[@scottnorvell2955]

Love my Swiis Champ!!! Also like the Huntsman and the Ranger 79 for fieldcraft. Love that fire kit for the corkscrew

[@Kyle-wb7wx]

This was fantastic! I wanted to mention that I use the victorianox daily and the corkscrew not only work swell for pulling cork but also is amazing at assisting you in working out knots! Also, in the plastics housing for the victorianox that is next to the cork screw, you will see a small hole, that there is for a needle. That needle really helps in assisting splinter removal. Thanks again for your awesome review!

[@vaclavblaschke]

I don't understand comparing tools that are maked for absolutely another purpose. Letherman are multifunctional plier, which means is primarily pliers and secondary other tools like knife, screewdrivers etc. Victorinox is multifunctional knife, which means is primarily knife and secondary other tools like pliers, saw, screwdrivers etc. Saying that Letherman have better plier like Victorinox is same like saiyng washmachine washes clothes better like dishwasher.

[@fernandoleamshake7031]

I have to try that and see if I can wash my clothes in the dishwasher

[@deniss4760]

+Vaclav Blaschke Exactly!!!

[@mineduggery3309]

Yes thats right. The victorinox has a similar modell like the Leatherman Tool so i dont understand why he didt compare this. But the Video was very good anyway.

[@tikkidaddy]

@@mineduggery3309 yes sir...the Spirit series...the steel is a bit soft but if you have to cannibalize a vehicle for survival supplies...its gonna be WAY easier with the Spirit.

[@doctyler3150]

Someone's been in grand dad's cough syrup again

[@JohnDoeRando]

I like the swiss army knife. I've always had one in the field... Got one when I was five years old. I still have it.

[@ryanlavallee6342]

I carry the Leatherman Wave with the optional pocket clip accessory I got for it. also keep a tiny Swiss classic for the toothpick and tweezers use those all the time

[@gearsNtools]

I find the leatherman wave works really well with the pocket clip. it really makes the tool feels a lot lighter.

[@nomsterdude]

I use the signal and have to agree

[@cyrthurix]

I realize I'm replying to an 8 year old comment but... Why not. Maybe someone who was as tormented as I was trying to choose between both will read this after being scared a bit by the comment on the wave's weight. I just got the tool on monday with the clip and have used it for two nightshifts where I have to move around a whole bunch. I didn't even notice it was in my pocket most of the time. It is heavy, yes, but a trifle if you don't have glass bones and moldy wooden knees that would snap under your own weight.

[@MagnumPI4]

Coming from a firefighter/medic never use a knife blade to cut off someones clothing. Take the time to grab trauma sheers. You don't want the liability of accidentally cutting someone.

[@gerry360]

MagnumPI4 i prefer to use scissors to cut clothing off my victims i take care of the knife is uncontrollably insecure and could make a fatal wound i totally agree with your option too

[@victorcastle1840]

@@gerry360 , will they cut seat belts off ?

[@bandaddie]

I am a retired first-responder. Sometimes you have to use what you have and just not worry. I once gave CPR to a fat woman in cardiac arrest. She was wearing a heavy, steel-stayed under garment which prevented proper compressions. A quick single slice of the blade on my Swiss-Tool got it out of the way. That city's first responders were on strike so I was on my own. She survived.

[@stephenfewson7188]

Mate, this is too hard! I can't choose between them!? Each one of these tools has its advantages and abilities over the other, but I love both of them equally! Great comparison btw, I really enjoyed it. G'day from Australia. 🇦🇺

[@superten12]

Great video , thanks for sharing. 2 Points i would like to make are 1. the toothpick is to thick for me. 2 The small screwdriver for the screws in glasses is a great item to have but when i needed it i also needed someone who could see to fix my glasses.

[@heikiu96z]

Swiss Army Knife = camp tool Leatherman = working tool

[@Moostery]

I would prefer the leatherman for work or camp to be honest.

[@martieso101]

Robert Briggs while the swiss army knife is a lot better for camping D:?

[@Moostery]

martieso101 I would say the leatherman is better for camping.

[@martieso101]

Robert Briggs while the video showed to me it's actually not.

[@lamia197]

martieso101 Swiss Army Knife fanboy detected? i'd call it a tie between the two my opinion is the leatherman is more for mechanics, and i happen to be a more machine guy. BUT for camping Swiss Army Knife all the way

[@josephwirta4209]

Leatherman is an industrial, EDC tool Swiss Army is a survival tool- you are comparing two different purposed tools HOWEVER it was very cool to see the comparison Nice Video on that end

[@sarahh2o1]

Joseph Wirta Makes sense

[@jamesaritchie1]

Any knife is a survival tool. The Leatherman has everything the Swiss Army Knife has in heavier, more indestructible form. Survival simply isn't an issue. Both can handle survival situations, and for survival, the Leatherman is far superior. But I don't carry either for survival. My Stockman is more than I need for survival. I carry the SAK simply because it's a good pocketknife, and makes a better backup to my Stockman that does the Leatherman. Leatherman makes the best multitools on the planet, but they also make lousy pocketknives. The sak is just decent as a multitool, but it's far better as a pocketknife. Someone said that the Leatherman is a multitool with knife blades, and the Swiss Army Knife is a pocketknife with tools. I think this is true.

[@simonh6371]

@@jamesaritchie1 The ''heavier, more indestructible'' or rugged image of the LM is just than, an image. I bought a Rebar which I do like but was disappointed to see that the knife blades and saw are thinner than those on even a basic celidor scaled 91mm Swiss Army knife. So I'd feel safer with a SAK than a Leatherman in a survival situation. The only tool which is better on LMs than on SAKs is the pliers but even then there are some Evogrip SAKs with sturdier pliers than those on smaller Leathermans, and furthermore Victorinox surpassed LM in plier-based multitools, with the Swisstools. Also a few tools on Leatherman are outright copies of the SAK tools, like the can opener (based on Wenger's design) and the saw.

[@Raptor-ew6to]

@@jamesaritchie1 talk about a somewhat biased opinion, a knife is NOT just a survival tool as they can be and are often fairly useful in day to day life, Leatherman is more of a working man's multitool in my personal opinion as they are usually equipped with tools more suited for a construction site than a survival situation (but I will admit that any tool in a survival situation can be useful when you know how to use them to survive. But your opinion on the Leatherman being a superior survival tool is a bit of a false claim. As pointed out in the video the Leatherman is heavier than it really needs to be as it contains more tools than are entirely necessary, such as certain tools that are used for mainly things that other tools work perfectly fine with. The Leatherman could do to remove a couple tools and either replace them with other tools more useful in a survival situation that have purposes that aren't already filled by other tools, or completely remove them to either make the tool a little smaller and or make it lighter and more conventional. The objective of survival isn't to have the heaviest equipment possible to survive with, it's to have the most useful tool possible that isn't a burden and takes up as little space as possible so you can carry other gear (that doesnt fit/can't go onto a multitool) that could come in handy in the event you need it.

[@Raptor-ew6to]

@@jamesaritchie1 also the idea that ANY knife is a survival tool is a bit false, while having a dinner steak knife in a survival situation is better than nothing, it's also an impractical tool for the job as it lacks the durability for such use, and its also not got much weight to it for its size, they are also extremely flexible. Many knives are better designed for different purposes, in a survival situation you want a knife that is strong and can take a beating, a knife with a decent length and cutting edge, and also enough weight and tolerance to do things such as battoning and chopping (now I don't want to sound like Trump, but I'm no professional in the craft, but Leatherman (the tool showcased here at least) has more place in a construction/workplace than a survival knife. The only thing that I saw that was claimed in the video to be unnecessary that I wouldn't be concerned about at all is the measuring tool as it is built into the handle and takes up no extra weight or space really.

[@chiefkirk]

Great review. I have been carrying a SAK Victorinox for many years. My absolute favorite carry knife. If I can carry only one knife, that's the one. It even has a great magnifying lens for checking coin dates when I metal detect. I own and love a Leatherman tool. It is awesome but way to heavy to carry daily. Yet when I'm in the woods, it's on my pack. The combination of having both tools with you means that if your car breaks down on the side of the road, you can almost rebuild your engine LOL.

[@brutalbrital]

I have a leatherman and it never leaves my house, I use it all the time and I love it. I also have a Victorinox 'Huntsman' and I take it everytime I'm outdoorsand I love it too so its all up to your needs and skill set .I feel to my mind they are different tools and have different applications but others may feel different. I have always said Victorinox is the best pocket knife in the world just pick the one right for you. All multi tools are bulky but the wave isn't too bad, and 'feels' good to carry. Both have fantastic quality items. Thanks for sharing great Vid mate

[@OutsideTheTargetDemographic]

I'm a cheap ass. I have bought three used SAK Huntsman knives for less than $20 shipped off ebay, one for me, one for the wife, one for a coworker. I can't FIND a LM for less than $50 used, and I can't justify that price for, largely, only getting a set of folding pliers. Plus, my wife would never carry a LM in her purse. The Huntsman saved her last Girl Scout troop camping trip from starving, as not a single other person brought a can opener or knife to prepare the canned goods and veggies. Jesus, what a sign of our times.

[@simonh6371]

@@OutsideTheTargetDemographic Weird that he says it never leaves the house. Surely at home you'd have dedicated tools in a box or a workshop/garage? If I wanted a MT at home where weight and size aren't a concern, I'd just get a Stanley Fatmax for around $20, Stanley have been making tools for decades before LM was started. As EDC I don't rate the LM Squirt or Style, the pliers are too dinky for any jobs that I'd need them for, maybe they're good for office workers & people in IT though. I pocket EDC a SOG microclip mt, plus a large SAK like the Farmer or Hiker, and a small Classic in my coin pocket (for the scissors). As bag EDC I have a Gerber MP600, the preferred mt of the US military. As an outdoor mt I take a Russian Army Ratnik, plus a fixed blade, plus an SAK in my pocket. If I want a really top end multitool at the pricepoint of the Wave (or Surge) I'll opt for a Swisstool, they are of a far superior quality.

[@OutsideTheTargetDemographic]

@@simonh6371 I see you too subscribe to the mantra "two is one and one is none". As I said my MT sits next to the watch collection, but my Cybertool just helped my cut a hose, plastic, metal, and water bottle to plumb in a rain water barrel to my 330gal tank. Always carry either a Huntsman or now a Cybertool L, plus a Rambler on both key chains. Handy, light, gets most things done.

[@MrGatya2]

@@OutsideTheTargetDemographic I have been carrying the huntsman for years now and found its the best all around SAK. It does 90% of my every day things I encounter, all the while being under 100g. Though recently I found that a lot of the times I need to cut some wires while doing DIY and having to have more options than just 2 flatheads. So I am opting to go for the Wave as my "workhorse/work" carry and the huntsman as a "leasure/outdoor" carry. Thoughts? (I don't want to go for swisstool as they are quiet expensive and the pliers cutting length is too small. If I want to maul a cable, I would just use the saw :D )

[@plasticdeath31]

Never underestimate having a decent set of wire cutters, like those on the wave (or now the improved replaceable ones on the wave plus). I've been around a bit and even in the middle of the Amazon jungle on a base camp I spent a couple of months at, I routinely found barded wire to cut through. Wave is me all over, but if it wasn't for that one thing, I'd 100% use the Victorinox.

[@dududu5189]

Excellent point.

[@U2Belle]

Swiss corkscrew is good for untying knots ... Thanks for the review!

[@ascendedfashy9632]

Belle Bowman I'll keep that in mind

[@AI3Dorinte]

amazing review, really well explained, big fan of victorinox myself

[@michaeltattersall284]

Great compassion mate. I carry a Leatherman for work and have a similar Victorinox I use for outdoors and have had it for almost 20 years. They both have their strengths and weakness in different environments but choosing between them would be like choosing between my kids.

[@newchannelisposhjosh-subsc8222]

Gotta love the nostalgic Swiss Army Knife!

[@PaulinOsakanow]

So which is it then?.

[@PavarottiAardvark]

Was helping a friend pick the best knife for her recently. Videos like this were great for thinking about both tools and usage. Great job!

[@hsuhaochang]

Love the details and pace you introduce these products. Nice review and thanks.

[@titodbm]

Subscribed! Loved the video, thank you!

[@PrimitiveLifeways]

Thank you, glad you enjoyed

[@victorsteel8032]

great review I have a Swiss Hercules as infantryman I have always relied on the Swiss never failed me even though the worst of combat and environment no matter what reliable n trust worthy.

[@paullyashenko1201]

thank you for this detailed review, as a newbie in knifes and multitools it helped me a lot to know both sa and leatherman at a same time, thanks a lot!

[@nicholasc2932]

Favorite? Leatherman: wave or charge AL Victorinox: Super Tinker!

[@garethbaus5471]

I would argue that the swiss army knife is an extremely versatile knife, it does a lot of things but it is best at cutting. The leatherman is a simmilar concept based around pliers so it depends on which tool you need more. The main use I have for tweezers is tick removal, I know a couple of people who have caught tick born illnesses those diseases are no joke.

[@longBowHunterII]

I like this video, he picked the most popular models, which is better as pointed out it what your needs are. the swiss is more for my needs.

[@theoriginaleating1233]

Thanks for that great review! I found this really helpful, and it definitely changed my perspective on the Victorinox Hercules knife. Will definitely be watching more.

[@PrimitiveLifeways]

Thanks! Thats what we are all about. - Jeff

[@happycamper9300]

Most SAK does not have lock, but the tools are hold in place with a tension spring. If you use the tools properly and do not abuse them, there will be no accidents. for me there is no comparison, this are 2 completely different tools with different purposes. The Leatherman is a plier with some additional tools. The SAK is a knife with some additional tools. So if you need the plier there is the way to go. If you do not need the plier then the SAK is the first option. By the way if compared one by one most tool in the SAK are more useful.

[@thearchives446]

Leathermans better..

[@simonh6371]

@@thearchives446 For a city boy maybe, but Victorinox is better in the outdoors. If I'm in the city or in my vehicle I have access to dedicated tools anyway. I suppose LM is good for office boys who don't have access to proper tools.

[@thearchives446]

@@simonh6371 lol I don't even remember writing this

[@thearchives446]

@@simonh6371 by the way, I'm a life long framer, tools are no issue

[@TheKimjoh560]

I own the wave and workchamp (it has the addition of an excellent file). Personally I think the Wave is great but the victorinox is just so much more comfortable to use that it wins in my eyes if - I had to pick one. Either will usually get the job done. I'm also a fan of the swisschamp that is remarkably capable for its size and the Surge that in my book is the most complete multitool available if paired with the right accesories and a good pouch.

[@FreshBagelz]

I have owned both a Victorinox Outrider and the Leatherman wave for about 2-3 years now. I must say that the outrider I just love so much more than the wave, which was actually slightly more expensive (if I remember correctly) Swiss army knives really are built to last, I take mine mostly on hikes, lakes, rivers, and in my backyard (I have 5 acres of pretty rugged terrain with lots of trees bushes and rocks.) The wave was pretty cool when I got it, since it had more features than my outrider, but it was just too bulky heavy and uncomfortable. I have taken my outrider everywhere, to creaks lakes, hikes etc. And when I say creaks and lakes, I mean I have taken this thing in the water with me. I use the saw most of the time, and it just works awesome for cutting small branches. The most I would cut is probably about 2inch thick branches. It is really comfortable and the knife is awesome for widdling sticks or sharpening them into spears. The punch al is also pretty nice for punching hole in wood for whatever reason you need. It is WAY lighter and WAY more comfortable than the leatherman wave, and despite taking this knife into the water with me many times, (Note that I didn't even bother drying it off) I have yet to see a spec of rust on it. My wave though, it has mostly been used a few times and I have never gotten it wet, yet the blades are getting a decent amount of rust at this point and it's kind of repulsing, makes me not want to use that tool anymore, since it just looks very old and worn. Note that I live in southern California in a desert, so if you live in Florida, Hawaii, Mexico, or any humid area, your leatherman will rust up FAST! I'm not a knife genius, I don't clean or sharpen my knifes, I just pick them up and use them for what they are made for, and my outrider has been just perfect for that. Anyways, I can say that if you plan on taking your knife in the water, your scissors will get pretty crappy, since the lube will come off, but with my tools that doesn't bother me at all, they mostly work fine without lubricant anyways. If you're like me and just want a functional low maintenance knife, then Victorinox is an awesome choice. I could see a technician using the leatherman more though, since it has more tools for stuff that I don't really care about, and it doesn't do well in a wet/dirt environment. On a side note, my outrider is getting pretty old (although still perfectly functional) It has also been kind of bulky in my pocket, I barely use the scissors so it isn't worth the weight and bulk. I just ordered a new German Army One Handed Trekker, which I'm really excited about, it is thinner and lighter than my outrider, and I don't have to worry about thing like the scissors, tweezers and toothpick. Also the one handed feature is really nice, and the locking mechanism seems to be better than victorinox's standard button lock that is on the outrider and the Hercules you are showing. There is actually a pretty big amount of play in the button locks that just annoys me. So yea, some of you might be annoyed that I got a "downgraded" version of my knife, but guess what, it will work better for me since it's lighter, less maintenance, and slimmer in my pocket (Which is really important since I climb on a lot of rocks.) Also the one handed feature is great, for when I'm climbing or something I don't have to use both hands and risk loosing balance.

[@TheMarik954]

FreshBagelz .

[@darkrl591]

I ain't gonna read that, so i will say ok.

[@ridharadhitya6202]

Wow nice thank you for your explanation!

[@beadbuddies]

I think leatherman is better built

[@ricev7071]

I guess whatever works for you. I prefer the Gerber MP600 multitool because it is tough and durable, and also won't rust. I don't care if a multitool is heavy, I honestly can't stand when "men' say my multitool or knife is heavy, I think that's a lame excuse. I love taking my Mtech Xtreme Raptor with me and it's a 2lb Bowie knife that's 7mm thick!! Good tools are strong and are sometimes heavy which I don't mind. Unless all your tools are made out of titanium, I don't expect a man who loves the outdoors to complain!!

[@andrewpolitano]

Love the dream theater music intro man, ha! Sick. Good thoughts on both. I love both, but always tend to pack out the wave to be honest. I like having pliers to fix tent zippers, grab hot pots and handle splinters.

[@henry109947]

Really good comparison, thanks for uploading

[@S.A.Masquerade]

He likes the Swiss better not because of quality but because victorinox has the tools he needs in the Swiss army knife.

[@joshvswild949]

And its better quality.

[@reconty2133]

Used my Victorinox "Rucksack model when I was going through my Warrant Officer Basic course at Ft. Rucker. This knife was probably one of the best items I had, no it was the best piece of gear I had. It brings civilization to the wild and the red handles means that you won't loose it when dropped on the ground like some of the "tactical" multi-tools.

[@skipsabin7157]

THANK YOU, GREAT COMPARISON I HAVE FOR OVER 40 YRS HAVE HAD A SWISS ARMY KNIFE. I HAVE 3, ONE IS ALWAYS IN MY POCKET. I HAVE THE GERBER MULTI TOOL AND It​ HAS IT'S PURPOSE LIKE SITTING AROUND.

[@alasdairgeddes]

Good review, thanks.

[@toml7347]

Great review jeff, I've never owned a SAK. Looking at getting one. I can't live without my lettherman I use it everyday , actually have 3 , currently carrying the surge, with a bit kit, you can change the saw blades with any jig saw blade, carry a mettal saw and wood saw.

[@shmegman3045]

Swiss-tool anyone? I find it funny when people are prejudice on Victorinox and say it's for 'pussies', yet they probably didn't take the time to consider the fact that Victorinox has other products that have either more tools/functions or just better anything for that matter. Don't get me wrong, I love Leatherman's; I just don't see why anybody would dislike a *fully functioning that is always better than nothing* for the reason that there is another good quality brand that does has a similar product. The only dull reasons that pop in my head are something to do with the name (Being a MAN is always a good thing, right?), The popularity of the tool, or that it just seems like it's better functioning. (Please do correct me if you feel I am wrong in any way. Criticism is gladly accepted. *Keep the criticism appropriate, please.*)

[@MrGnarman]

my thoughts exactly. I have had many victorinox products, and have never been let down, except by the little key rings. I've got a miniSD that was actually run over by a fully loaded mini-van, and it's still in perfect condition (save for the scales) after years of use since. plus, there's something to be said of the spartan model. everything I could need in an emergency, and in something small enough to forget it's on me till i need it.

[@dahotrod1533]

The quality of Victorinox products is second to none. Such a shame that Leatherman quality has gone down hill, apparently the finish is not as good and certain components are known for snapping.

[@tagelorder]

Victorinox tools has many tools and has lots of functions, but it can't do anything good enough... Its just for indoor and light use,,, whereas leather can easily out perform in emergency or survival situation,,, what is the use of cork screw, tweezers,scissor like pliers and tooth pick lol..

[@simonh6371]

Only ignoramuses say the VIc is for pussies, a novelty, toy etc. The whole ''Leatherman is a tough real man's tool'' is bs anyway. It was designed by a hippy who was too stoned to find a European hardware shop or market stall where he could have bought a pair of dedicated pliers for a few cents at that time. Don't get me wrong, I like LM and they do have their place, the Squirt is the most compact format for it's toolset for very light jobs and emergencies. But when I got my Rebar I was shocked to see how the main blade and saw are a lot skinnier and the saw is shorter than on just a regular 91mm SAK. I don't have a spare thousand pounds or so to try out a few more LM products - and it would seriously cost that, where I live a Charge TTI is around $300, MUT EOD is around $250 and so on, but I don't see how those LMs that their fanboys swear by are going to be as rugged and robust as they claim, considering that the Rebar is classed as heavy duty.

[@simonh6371]

@@tagelorder Read my comment below. Anyway the vast majority of Victorinox don't have corkscrews. Pliers aren't much use in the wilderness. What are vital are the knife blades and saw. Both of which are skinnier on my Rebar than on even a basic 91mm SAK. Leatherman is a city tool for non-tradesmen (tradesmen have dedicated tools) or people on the go. Victorinox are for outdoorsmen. Hence the names, Hunstman, Fieldmaster, Hiker, Soldier etc. Leatherman names are just quirky hipster names.

[@aldomoreno8197]

Es una muy buena conbinacion de super herramientas. Felicitaciones por tu video y explicacion, saludos desde Chile.

[@edhernunio]

Great review, i really enjoy your videos. Thanks

[@billbright1755]

The Swiss Champion has all the tools I need. It is perfect for me even has a magnifying lens to see and make fire.

[@yair1010]

Victorinox all the way! Great job.

[@agoodartist]

just half

[@Jesusandbible]

A Swiss Army Work Champ is even better, as it has an extra large file and metal saw, plus a mini screw driver added and corkscrew, . The Swiss Army Champ might be even better if you are not looking for a locking blade.

[@Angrygerman1930]

Swiss army all the way :)

[@patrickgambsky6290]

🖕

[@apmikalogran]

Jesusandbible ggrrr yes I have the Hercules and I want the workchamp b

[@MrDidaxi]

Hi Jeff. Let me start by saying that it is an excellent review. I own both (seemingly) "contenders". Because you have well made it clear that the SAK is mostly for the "wilderness", whereas the LW is mainly for urban settings. Still, both are very reliable multitools for lite / medium tasks or chores. I bought mine just about the same period and I have not regretted it a bit for either of them. My capacity is urban. If I find myself in another setting it will be during summer vacation or lite hiking. I rotate my EDC with both and lately I have also introduced a Gerber MT400 and a Swiss Tool. Ultimately, I have come to realise that a multitool is by far the most important EDC item one has to have on one's person, every day (else, so much for EDC, right?..). Seriously now: it proves handy, be it for personal needs or for the needs of others around you and the potential one never knows until a need calls for it. Take care Jeff and many thanks for the insightful video creations you provide. Best regards. George form Hellas (Europe).

Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@MrThundermountainman]

Holy Smokes! You opened the blades, tools and used them! What a concept on a review! Well planned out and informative.

[@CBGMaker]

I personally don't understand those that think the leatherman isn't a great woodsman tool. Pliers are great for grabbing hot items, Fishing, cutting and bending wire for traps, Pulling small short knots tight, cracking nuts, Even pulling your bad teeth. and as far as tweezers go I have them in a small med kit. Who needs a cork screw in the woods? I also don't need an awl, its on my pocket knife ( old boy scout knife) And last but not least, you need a tooth pic? and your a bushcrafter? If you cant wood craft a quick tooth pic, well I don't know what to tell ya.

[@martieso101]

leatherman fanboy detected o.o? Swiss army knives are just a lot better out in the field.

[@CBGMaker]

martieso101 Fanboy? Haha. Fanman is more like it. I guess this debate is like Ford and Chevy. You must be a Ford guy.. But I actually was saying I carry Two knives. No reason you cant take both. My fire kit bag has a sheath on top for a leatherman to sit sideways, then the gag hangs off of it. I made it.

[@NightwolfGamezzz13]

martieso101 so true u gotta stay with the classics

[@NightwolfGamezzz13]

martieso101 so true u gotta stay with the classics

[@AceOfBlackRaptor]

but you have multitools, to have only one tool... And the knife and the saw (for me the important tools) are much better on the victorinox

[@zeroone7728]

Tip: add a drop of superglue to the thread of your eyeglasses screws to prevent them coming loose. An optician showed me that when I was a kid. This trick works great for all screws that have a tendency to come loose, but it doesn't prevent them from being undone either.

[@jeepnicc]

Very cool, informative video. Thanks for sharing. Dig the Dream Theater tattoo, too!!

[@user-vu3nd1xu3f]

THE BEST WAY TO PUT IT: Leatherman: the best multi-tool for utility/ "on the job" work. Victorinox: the best EDC. Leatherman's are way too heavy for me to carry on my person during a normal weekend, unless it's the leatherman juice (great MT.) The build quality for leatherman cannot be matched. I've carried leathermans everyday during the job and have never failed to be impressed. With that being said, I'd much rather use my real tools from my toolbox at that point. However I'd never carry my leatherman surge on me at all times when I'm partaking in my social life. Too heavy, too bulky, and there is just not as big of a need for it. My Victorinox has a great build quality, very lightweight, and very handy. Handy is the keyword. I can barely ever feel it in the pocket and it does the job very well. Love the toothpick as well, and a very handy fishing tool. Too many fanboys on here of both sides. But I am telling it how it is.

[@wm6shay345]

I've got a better idea ... Take them both

[@cmrsvids]

+Wm6 Shay Precisely ... I EDC both every day, the Wave in a front pant pocket via an add-on pocket clip and a Victorinox Huntsman in a belt sheath. Both feature tools I can't live without and use daily. The redundancy doesn't bother me in the least.

[@OutsideTheTargetDemographic]

Two is one, and one is none.

[@BarryMcDikkon]

You’re better off looking at it than looking for it

[@jamesaritchie1]

I hate that saying. Two is two, and one is one. If you really follow the two is one motto you'll be carrying two of all sorts of things that you simply do not need two of, and you won't have room for things you do need, @@OutsideTheTargetDemographic

[@thereisnopandemic]

PC answers are useless to me

[@onedogbowen]

Excellent review, thanks

[@MokuNui808]

eventhough this video is over 6yrs old, i like every comparison you've made. i have the Wave+ and plan on getting the Hercules as a primary tool.

[@techposo]

My two favorite brands.

[@wilhelmtaylor9863]

I think a cork screw is a total necessity because you never know when you will discover a bottle of Dom Perignon on the trail.

[@margaretadler6162]

You Don't need a cork screw to open a bottle of Dom Perignon It's Champagne...lol

[@margaretadler6162]

The corkscrew does come in handy for untieng knots in paracord and other cordage!

[@elibryrob]

Margaret Adler Yeah, I’ve used the corkscrew on my Swiss for just about everything except taking corks out of bottles.

[@michaelzumpano7318]

That was an excellent video! Very fair. You’re a smart guy.

[@bushylingus6272]

Great review I have a swiss army locker and I have bashed the hell out of the back of the blade with a hammer to chop logs it's not even dented! I will soon buy the version you got there they are amazing.

[@bryantherocker]

You can Untie Tight Knots with the Corkscrew :) that will save your from cutting the rope.

[@matusvyrostko4762]

Nice Dream Theater intro! :D

[@thomaschainey3230]

Great video thanks. I new this video was old when you talked about a key chain ferro rod and did not bring up the tooth pick replacement little ferrosiem rod that they sell now called FireFly. I carry the Leatherman Rebar and the SAK Champion Plus together everyday EDC as they back each other up and having both is the best of both worlds. I sometimes also carry my Leatherman Super Tool 300 and my SAK Evolution s54 when I want to go big. Also carry the biggest locking blade and saw SAK makes when I want to go long and thin and it has just the basics. Maybe it's called the camper or Ranger I think and it works well too.

[@jimmysanjana]

Useful and mature comparison. I suppose there is no one great multi tool; it's the activity one engages in which makes one more useful over the other. Just ordered a Leatherman Surge.

[@spasticpanda8933]

I got the surge too, big ass tool but my smaller Leathermans always failed with the punishment I put through my tools haha

[@Groosome128]

17:20 I would have thought you'd melt the plastic on the knife :)

[@cassanoa]

the cork screw is good for taking apart knots as well as opening wine bottles - love the Swiss army knife - my best mechanical friend :-) its the little things that seem to matter - Swiss army wins hands down - if i really need pliers i will bring a dedicated set

[@Tmaxar]

Brilliantly done.....that is how you do a comparison between two things. I don't think there was anything that I wish had been added.

[@phoenixrises1982]

I work in plumbing industry and have many tools but yet somehow always need my Leatherman! I keep it in a belt pouch on my side.

[@abhinavaggarwal4062]

this guy is absolutely right ... firstly, a wave does nt have as many tools as a victorinox multitool. secondly, apart from the pliers, none of the tools in the wave can match the steel quality or the build of the victorinox. I was comparing the two at a store, and apart from being almost 3 grands more expensive than the victorinox, the wave's tools were so thin and week, i was scared i might just break them if i bend 'em a little too much. So, leatherman cannot match the victorinox.. don't even waste ur time and money on a leatherman

[@bradford7944]

the guy in vid said leatherman was more difficult to sharpen...thats because its harder steel...!!1 and will stay sharper longer

[@shinobi2119]

almost 3 grands more? Euh... it's not that expensive.

[@davediesel90]

Mmmm ive snapped leatherman blades, never broke a SAK blade or tool. Granted leatherman replaced it but even so

[@TheWinterfox10]

@@shinobi2119 Currency exchange rates are a bitch like that! I think he was probably looking to make the buy in Rupees or some such currency.

[@simonh6371]

@Jorn Navarre You're obviously from the 1950s. There are loads of rich Indians nowadays. In fact India is the 3rd country in the world for number of billionaires lol. If you had ever left your hillbilly backwater you'd know that.

[@sosteve9113]

Using my tweezer almost every time when im for an extended time in the woods

[@BigSlugRIP]

When you gotta go you gotta go 😂

[@dcordry]

Jeff, great review and comparison!

[@matthewmcmaster8878]

Great review. I own a Victorinox Ranger and love it. I also just Subscribed to follow you.

[@Thermoman69691]

I own both these exact pocket tools and the one I choose all day long is the Leatherman Wave, and I'll tell you why...Firstly the amount of times I've hurt myself because the tools on the Swiss have collapsed and either stuck or cut my fingers or palms or both, especially the long screwdriver... the scissors on the Swiss has a spring that got slightly out of shape, and it's not possible to true this spring again, so it either stabs the thumb, or the scissors jam up because the spring gets caught between the two moving blades... the saw blade may be longer on the Swiss but get it wrong and it bends and then makes trouble to get it back in... while on bending, I would state now that the metal on the Leatherman is of far superior grade, the Swiss is just looking fancy because it's polished... the screwdriver bits on the Swiss are soft, and they don't take long before they're useless... the flat head driver on the Swiss snapped on a screw that wasn't all that tight... the pliers on the Swiss are the real tweezers and great for picking up postage stamps, and again the spring failed and the whole thing becomes annoying every time it was used... the longer blade on the Swiss is pretty good at it locks, but mind that slide lock as it does attract dirt then becomes difficult to slide, the knife is pretty good so can't fault it much there... the Swiss can't be taken apart so if you break a tool it will most likely cost a fortune to replace it, unlike the Leatherman that can have everything replaced, apart from the pliers, but I could be wrong and if that happened it will most likely be completely replaced. I've managed to snap the scissors on my Leatherman tho, but I was using it for something that it's not designed for, but it wasn't a problem as sending it off to an authorised dealer had it not only return with new scissors, but a complete service which I'm sure had either a new main blade or been professionally sharpened... the Swiss after only a few months began doing the phase of being awkward when trying to open some of the tools, I believe between each tool is a brass washer, so am guessing with grit getting between must damage the brass thus making the friction between metal more tight, the Swiss needs lots of soapy warm water and regular oiling, my Leatherman hasn't had anything done and all the tools open freely... ok, now for the great things from the Leatherman that leave in my opinion the Swiss at home.. The build quality is tough and hard wearing and feels solid in the hand... all the tools lock... all the tools are useful and can leave you reaching for the Leatherman rather than getting the right tool from the toolbox... you're likely to drink beer than wine so the cork screw isn't required so one less thing to stab yourself with, and I've tried it on a bottle and the damn thing collapsed but luckily missed my flesh... when using the screw drivers on the Leatherman, it can be adjusted to either extended or set at an angle to give better leverage with its main body... despite it being only a pocket tool you do feel when using the tools it's up for the job, the Swiss always felt something was gonna go ping... the warranty on the Leatherman is at a guess 25years, so what does that tell you how much they recommend their product... you can reuse this again and again and send it back to be fixed, only the postage needs to be paid... the Leatherman also comes with additional items that can be purchased that add to the tools, a 42 bit set with extension bar which covers nearly all common screw heads for one... the Swiss is a nice looking pocket tool, but manly and super tough it isn't, lite camping is about as much as it copes, despite the Swiss being much lighter, the Leatherman is the super heavyweight champ for me... I've owned my Leatherman for over ten years and carry it with me somehow all the time, it's the tool that has saved me many times, especially when cutting a seatbelt and only had one hand, the Swiss wouldn't of been the good choice that day... at the end of my words it's your choice and what feels right for you... maybe take both and drink your wine while cutting tomatoes with the serrated Leatherman's knife choice;)))

[@drakepowers5938]

swiss army knifes to life I hate leatherman tools

[@Thermoman69691]

This is my opinion and my story of using the Swiss knife... I own loads of Swiss Knives including the Wenger range... The Wenger range are more robust and usually are more beefy... The Swiss knives are more pleasing on the eye and feel, they do look good with the polished materials and from a camping aspect look more suitable... I guess my demands are more heavy, and with the Leatherman, it's built to be used as a tool rather than light camping... I own two Leatherman's, the Wave and Surge, and have about ten Swiss knives and three Wenger knives... I carry the Wave always, but always have a few Swiss knives with me in my glovebox, as the finer tools are always in need... If it works for you then that's what it's about, not for me or anyone's else's

[@skwaaaaa]

Wow you actually took tour time out to write all that

[@Thermoman69691]

I know... got fast fingers so could possibly write you into a coma ha ha ha

[@skwaaaaa]

Thermoman69691 nah all joking aside it was a good post! Very informative :) cheers

[@ahmedarizofficial8243]

Loved the video btw I like Swiss champ

[@ramon2008]

Hell yeah just got that one. I can it’s gonna be my girl for a long time

[@FatherKiwi]

Lovin' the DT bro!

[@outdoorclown]

Nice review. Thanks

[@m1scmus1c]

In my opinion Leather-mans are way overpriced for what they do. I have owned my Victorinox SwissChamp for over 8 years and have never had any issues and have loved it. I bought a Leather-man Super tool 300 and I treated it well and sharpened it when it was dull, within a year and a half it had loosened and fell apart. So in the end I prefer specifically Victorinox swiss army knives. Though the Hercules is not a good knife to represent Victorinox, I would rather show a Swisschamp plus, Swisschamp, Explorer, Explorer plus, Fieldmaster, or the classic that is the Spartan.

[@OutsideTheTargetDemographic]

I'm a cheap ass. I have bought three used SAK Huntsman knives for less than $20 shipped off ebay, one for me, one for the wife, one for a coworker. I can't FIND a LM for less than $50 used, and I can't justify that price for, largely, only getting a set of folding pliers. Plus, my wife would never carry a LM in her purse. The Huntsman saved her last Girl Scout troop camping trip from starving, as not a single other person brought a cam opener or knife to prepare the canned goods and veggies. Jesus, what a sign of our times.

[@lordchickenzz]

The corkscrew has other uses, it sticks into wood well and can tease out knots.

[@PrimitiveLifeways]

great point!

[@carlorjj]

Excellent Video, two icons!!!

[@HonkyTonkHellraiser]

The new Leatherman Wave + has all the tools I need for outdoor/everyday use

[@jack_batterson]

But the old Leatherman ST300 is better quality. Leatherman has traded quality for 'new features' at the cost of quality. Victorinox seems to maintain their quality standards.

[@alexandrcerebedov5242]

Victorinox is bigger than Leatherman Wave. Take Leatherman Charge for this test. My opinion is that Victorinox is better for travel, Leatherman is better for home use.

[@rishijai]

Yep, I like the swiss army better. If you need a pliers a lot of the time the leatherman is for you

[@simonh6371]

@Jorn Navarre If you're travelling in a vehicle you should carry a box or bag of tools in the boot (trunk) with sockets & wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, hammer etc. LM was designed by a hippy travelling Europe in the 70s who bought a cheap old Fiat in Amsterdam and just had a Scout knife with him.

[@thalivenom4972]

lets solve this.. use the surge, not the little wave.. everything he wanted bigger, is bigger, and its much better then any victorinox, even the scout tool.

[@rudyduplooy217]

I got letherman's, Gerbers and SAK's and the SAK saws are just amazing!

[@alan30189]

Nice review. I can’t remember using a saw on a knife. But then again, I’m not a bushcraft dude, making traps, etc.

[@ygerber]

victorninox has a swiss tool.lol. would have been a better comparison

[@slavianapetrova8258]

When will you "Knife Experts" stop comparing Leatherman multitools with Victorinox pocket knives? They are two completly different things. Compare Leatherman knives with Victorinox knives or Victorinox multitools with Leatherman multitools.

[@happycamper9300]

Great and informative review

[@yuridanylko]

Tweezers can be a lifesaver in my area. Lots of tics.

[@rishijai]

There is also a stainless steel pin embedded in the corkscrew channel on the swiss army knife

[@ascendedfashy9632]

Rishi Jai varies on the model

[@rishijai]

Yes, I have the Champion Plus

[@andrewmoon1898]

I have a tic removal card in my wallet, my poor dog is my early warning tic system, they stand out on her thin white coat. They are definitely increasing in numbers.

[@TheNugettinage]

I think the main problem with the Swiss Army Knife is that there is so many cheap copies floating around. It's very easy to mistake the copies for the real deal when you just look at them in some random shop, but when you actually try to use them the cheap copies obviously underachieve and break easier than the real one. Keep in mind that if you have used both the Leatherman and the Swiss Army that the Swiss Army might have been a knock off.

[@FoodOnCrack]

***** You know, actual web shops don't sell junk unless you go on DX.com...

[@TheNugettinage]

FoodOnCrack Talking about shops were people not that interested in knives buy their stuff. Gas stations are common for example.

[@carslover3509]

great report

[@jonathanlow9989]

Thank you for the great review. What is the sharpening tool you use in the video please?

[@rikthdcruze5847]

alright guys... I prefer carrying my multi-tool on my belt and I like my tool to be heavy. It feels good in my hands... i mean wat difference is a few ounces gonna make !! ?

[@TerryPullen]

As a carpenter I am not a fan of multi tools and do not carry one. I would rather go to my truck and get the right tool then try to use a make shift tool like a multi tool. That's just me.

[@doubleb222able]

I get that. But you can't carry your tool bag with you everywhere. I'm a locksmith and only need a my tool bag on commercial jobs. Most times, I only need to work with a few screws, a couple bolts. I will go into apartment buildings. Park downtown Minneapolis and have to walk 3 blocks. I don't want to carry a heavy tool bag unless I need it. When I was in the army, I carried a leatherman super tool with me everywhere. It's not like I did a full maintenance on a vehicle with it, but I used it literally every day for small tasks. There's definitely a time and a place for both.

[@TerryPullen]

@@doubleb222ableSince I wrote that post I had surgery on both legs, and both hands retired, sold the truck, became, a grandfather, moved to a different town, and still don't carry a multi-tool. 🙂

[@davecordova7211]

nice video good info. Thanks for posting

[@gron1540]

Great review, I personally carry a leatherman wave plus for work purposes and take it camping with me every now and again. I am a bigger guy so I tend to mot even realize it’s in my pocket and I love how rugged it feels, I’ve owned a Hercules too, ad although it is a nice tool I almost never used it, I mainly use my tools In electric work and the Hercules didn’t fit my needs, for wire related tasks like stripping, cutting or crimping the Hercules is not well equipped. Not to mention after a slight torture test I managed to warp the saw on the Hercules. personally never been a fan of victorinox steel as it feels soft and very pliable, they don’t market the type of steel they use, unlike leathermann, so I’ve always been uncertain wether it’s good or not, but to me it feels cheap. Otherwise In general the wave plus is the perfect edc for me, the Hercules although a good tool IMO doesn’t even compare to a leatherman wave.

[@jjpki4654]

Victorinox is better. If you need a pliers-based tool, buy a Swiss Tool, which is Victorinox’s equivalent to the Leatherman.

[@-----REDACTED-----]

JJ PKI yup can confirm. Make no mistake, I love my wave and it has been a trusty companion over the years but since I had to switch to the Swiss tool...boy oh boy, it makes me almost regret not having gone with it in the first place. Almost. But nostalgia is one hell of a drug.

[@ralfpuppe63]

No no no letherman vs swiss multitool spirit....swiss win

[@billbutler2452]

I'm a retired state maintenance guy. first 15 years my go-to was a Swiss Tinker model, minimag AA flashlight,and 2 pocket screwdrivers for controls work, covered most of my service calls. I also had a pretty full tool belt, 1/2 ton P.U. w/ 2 side toolboxes, a cross-bed toolbox, a 4"vice and outrigger leg on the rear bumper. I was 1 of 5 guys similarly equipped doing repairs and maintenance at a large facility approx 12-1500 residents. Also had a fairly complete shop for HVAC,Steam, pneumatic controls, pump rebuilds, w/ maybe 50 total tradesmen & shops covering whatever we needed to fix or create & contrive. I truly liked my Tinker knife, super versatile, and the tweezers and the awl were very handy out in the field.I really wanted to try that Leatherman, but it was $64 and I got the Tinker for $10. Somewhere along the line our facility had it's mission modified for Court-ordered cases, and we mushroomed our security from 5 cops and a boss to a full police dept. w/ 150 cops. They created lots of new rules including 'No knives! Extreme penalty, get you fired! Our bosses talked to their bosses to explain the knives were part of our tools. Cop said 'Not anymore.' Boss says 'Didn't someone fix your A/C yesterday with a 'utility tool'? gave him a way out. We no longer could use our various pocket knives, and to make up for it, the State issued us each a 'Wave' which I used my second 15 years, and still carry it, use it for something daily, usually. I do miss my tweezers & awl.

[@MrBluesluver]

Nice video, but like you say, it depends on what you want to use it for. My wave is in my daily carry work bag, because I can't carry it on me. (too bulky for my pocket and can't carry it on my nursing uniform). So at work, a SA Fieldmaster is in my pocket. Off duty, I prefer a Gerber 600 that I've carry for over 20 years, because the pliers are the tool I use most. Anyway, keep up the good work.

You might want to pronounce it Victor(Y)nox with emphasize on victory for winning. Greetings from Switzerland.

[@joris0claus]

Decent review. I own both a Leatherman and this S.A.K. The Leatherman lives in some toolbox and is never used, the Hercules lives in my pocket and is used daily. I have never found it to be lacking: it does the job, and if it doesn't cut it, I take a walk to the garage to grab the single-purpose-tool intended for the job. I feel that the Leatherman - appearing more "tough" - keeps you trying and messing about longer before you realize "Dammit, I'll just go get a REAL tool for this job!". And that's not a plus in my opinion. Comparing Victorinox Hercules vs. Leatherman Wave is like comparing cats vs. dogs. Just look at all these comments of dog-people vs. cat-people and you'll understand. But if you say Victorinox is "cheap", "low quality" and "for pussies", then you are an idiot and nothing more than a Leather-slut...

[@fffab74]

just fyi, the Victorinox Work Champ has all the same tools +the file and the micro screwdriver (hidden in the corkscrew), makes it just a little more bulky. Great review, thank you

[@TheSaneHatter]

Thanks for the in-depth review. There's two things I'd like to make note of: a) In the end, there seems to be plenty of room for both SAKs and multi-tools alike "in the field." For not only do they both persist after all this time, but it Victorinox has begun to make multi-tools, Leatherman has begun to make knives, and Gerber has been doing both for years. b) I have to agree about leatherman scissors being less sturdy than those on SAKs. While Leatherman scissors are useful (they make surprisingly good beard trimmers), I have had TWO of them break on m after extended use, while the tiny scissors on my keychain SAKs have rarely or never had that problem. However, things might be different on those Leathermans that have a pair of scissors as a central tool, rather than pliers.

[@necroorcen]

Scissors broke on my mini Victorinox (that one about 5cm length) and the spring always breaks on my all Victorinoxes, so I'm not a fan of their scissors. Ruike SAK has better solution (an internally springed lever)

[@SignedSign]

construction workers have no use of a multitool.. we use real tools and got our pockets filled with the tools we need, I'd say the same goes for mechanics, a multi tool would be more for recreational use as for real work they are pretty useless

[@jeffreyw8752]

SignedSign which one do you prefer?

[@dakotasummers1585]

Not quite true. I work on set building and maintenance, the Leatherman is an every day carry for me. It’s torn through everything I’ve thrown at it in a tough situation, and while no, it’s not for straight up construction, it’s not just a recreational tool either. The ST300 is about the handiest of all my tools, because it’s a toolbox on my belt.

[@ramtrucks721]

Nobody cares a bunch of tools in their pockets.. I work in a shop. STFU

[@simonh6371]

@@ramtrucks721 So a Leatherman is for you, as you don't need tools for your everyday work i.e. your primary trade. Other trades use ''the tools of the trade'' so no need for a Leatherman. It's more for non-tool people like shop workers, office workers, or IT geeks. It was invented by a hippy travelling Europe in the 70s.