Victorinox SwissTool

An in depth look at one of the best multi tools out there, the Victorinox SwissTool. There are a lot of reason why someone might consider this multi tool over other model, which I will be discussing in this video.

[@spunkkat1721]

I send in a SwissTool that was loose & had obvious hard use, I advised them of that before I sent it in & they send the old one back AND a new one, EXCELLENT SERVICE

[@txtoolcrib]

Wow! That’s awesome!

[@muxmurki1497]

As a European (German), I can tell you that the service of Victorinox is outstanding. You can send in about any knife or tool and get it repaired at low cost or even for free, if there was the slightest hint of a material error rather than mishandling. I even sent in an older Wenger model (Huntsman-like, don't know the Wenger name), which they were unable to repair because of missing parts, and I got the more modern VIC equivalent (the model is the EvoGrip S18, also one of your favorites as I understand it) - for free. Even no charge for shipping. Awesome! Took 3 weeks all in all. Now I have sent 2 Leatherman Super Tools with bad damages on them (not from me, but 1st owner, got them cheap on eBay) and the LM service (Germany) announced they just returned them. I'm very eager to see what they've done.

[@razzo9610]

Just sharing a recent story. Saved by the Victorinox Swiss Tool. My boot lace got snagged on the kickstand spring of my 89 Harley last weekend while I was backing out of my garage, the result is that I lost my balance with my left foot stuck and fell to my right with the bike on top of me. Gasoline started to pour out of the tank onto my right leg. I could have easily gotten out from under the bike, except for my boot lace on the spring which I could not free no matter how much I struggled. I always carry a belt pouch with my Swiss Tool, a firesteel and a flashlight on my right side and after wiggling the pouch I was able to reach the tool, opened up the knife and barely was able to reach my boot lace with the tip of the knife and finally cut it freeing my leg. the bike is in good shape, just bent a floorboard. Not fun to be pinned down while being drenched with gasoline. Without that knife, I would have ended up with 3 to 4 gallons of gasoline on me. Thank you Swiss Tool!

[@chocolateface8664]

Bikes are dangerous

[@robertfrazier7877]

‘😢

[@vadimsky]

@@chocolateface8664 ban all assault bikes)

[@Spanky8402]

Motorcycles are awesome. I have shoes and high top shoes, both leather, no laces for this reason. Shoe laces can be dangerous. The shoes, I can run with them and they kind of feel like running shoes, but no laces, so I don't have a reason for shoe or boot laces, especially since the high top ones are steel toe, with the anti slip tread. I ride all year long and I have a heated jacket, thermal face mask and gloves, the bike blocks the wind off my legs, so jeans with my summer biker pants. You just have to be careful in the winter, but that's why I love it. You do have to respect your bike though, because it's heavier than you and it will put you in your place, under it, if you don't. It was 38 degrees today and I drove it today.

[@spectator511]

The 1.5 mm screwdriver at 8:30 is ideal to handle screws that are used in electical installations (eg. screw terminals) here in Switzerland. I don't know how it is in other countries but in Switzerland this screwdriver is very handy if you are doing tasks like hanging lamps. I think, this is the reason, why they inserted this tool (also in SwissChamp etc.).

[@edmund8954]

Lets say it together: Its a softer stainless steel, its more rust resistant, because its softer, its easier to sharpen. love ur channel btw

[@CryptidDevGroup]

I work as a Marine Engineer, and I bought the SwissTool as my first Multitool. The serrated blade is great to cut hoses and other materials like rope, etc. But the fact that you have to open them with your nails was a problem for me, being that you use gloves either in the Engine Room or on deck pretty much all the time. Pliers were good, but when cutting a bit of a hard wire they deformed and I decided I needed something different, and I opted for the Free P4, for one hand opening. It has worked great, except it's not "Heavy Duty" enough for what I use it (Extra Small Screwdriver broke, and I've bent the blade too), and recently replaced it with a Surge, and haven't look back since. Great videos!

[@user-md3is4dq2d]

@Mickey Mouse what is a surge mk2. I can't find anything that's actually called that

[@Northanteus]

Guess I'm not surprised about you bringing up how the SwissTool's pliers deformed, since I hear that Victorinox uses a softer metal on their tools.

[@dmam412]

Does this guy get a commission Bc he had sold hundreds of multi tools I bet

[@BassMaster.454]

Super tool 300 does not disappoint for any use

[@SuperSteelSteve]

Curious as to how you bent the blade on the P4 but not the Surge? As the P4 has a slightly thicker blade stock than the Surge.

[@TheGrenadier97]

This Victorinox screams precision, elegance and utility.

[@txtoolcrib]

They are put together well.

[@alexs5744]

Like the Swiss or the Germans.

[@jefferyhetrick4909]

I appreciate your reviews and they have helped me with buying decisions. Would love to see some hands on reviews of the tools actually doing work. Keep up the good work.

[@cuuppaajoe]

I still have my SAK from 30 years ago. Still in the same shape and I USED IT A LOT! Quality is amazing. They’re still selling this in CS form, and I picked it up. :). Thx for the review.

[@MethodOverRide]

So glad to see this I've been waiting for it!!

[@txtoolcrib]

I hope it doesn’t disappoint!

[@MrSixxshooter]

Phenomenal video review !! I’m looking to pick this X model up soon . I have the 4” spirit version and it’s just as nice but I like the 4.5” versions the best . Just to update your viewers that most of the X plus series of this tool are out of stock and on back order on there web site if your looking to get the set with the extra bits. Thanks again Ben !! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@saviom8166]

10:25 I have been in that exact same situation, and there's a bit of a story there. I have worn down my file on the Swiss Tool from cutting through thick chain links on antique style lock of my house's front door, and other tasks. They do not cover that under warranty, and it's a paid replacement. It was as I expected. However, when I sent mine in for a paid replacement, the told me that they do not have the facility to replace it here in India and had to send it to Switzerland. After going back and forth a bit, to cut the total cost, they proposed to have one of their staff members carry it with him personally to Switzerland on one of his visits instead of shipping it because it will cost more to ship. But, that visit never happened as planned. So, as a gesture of goodwill, they offered to replace it with a new piece at half the cost of a new one. I thought they meant that they'd give my piece back as well as let me pay only half for a new one. I agreed, and asked to be allowed to purchase a higher model - the Spirit XC plus ratchet. It turned out that I had misunderstood - the new piece would be at half price in place of my original piece. I disagreed, and wrote to them expressing my discontent with the solution, while acknowledging their courteous behaviour throughout. In reply, they simply gave me a whole new Swiss Tool at no extra price, and kept my old piece with them. So, it all ended well enough and the result was satisfactory to me, albeit quite delayed.

[@txtoolcrib]

Pretty good experience with their warranty, thank you for sharing.

[@davidsiegel9847]

I have a 20 year old Swiss Tool, and more than 50 years of Victorinox pocket knife experience. I think that the idea of the softer steel can be misleading. Practically speaking, it does hold up well, and does not need constant resharpening. Now, I also have a 20 year old LM Wave. And more recent Victorinox and Leatherman, including the Surge--my bushcrafting favourite. I do not use multitools for heavy work. I find the good ones infinitely useful for all kinds of light and medium duty tasks, and that for me is common sense. The SwissTool and Surge and Spirit and SuperTool are the best. But if I can use dedicated tools, I do. The smaller tools work and are durable. Much less so on my SOG and Gerber tools. Long story short, SwissTool blade hasn't really needed any more sharpening than my Leatherman blade. But I don't do sustained heavy cutting with any multitool. I have a 35 year old Norwegian Hellé forest knife for that. Thanks--great reviews. I enjoy them. Well presented. -Davíd. Haifa, Israel.

[@txtoolcrib]

You make a good point. Let me ask you something. Why do you think it is that Victorinox can use the same steel for years and years and years without any backlash, but Leatherman gets thrashed because they use the 420HC in most of the their multi tools instead of higher grade steels? I don't think the steel in SAK's is bad at all. It is certainly not the best out there, but it very serviceable and easy to put an edge back on it. I must admit, I do love my Surge though. Thank you so much for watching my video and for taking the time to comment. I find it amazing how people can connect from all over the world these days. Ben From the Great State of Texas, USA

[@davidsiegel9847]

@@txtoolcrib SAK users traditionally knew what a pock knife was. No grand claims. A useful light tool. Pocket knives are not multitools, not to my generation at least. The Leatherman pliers-based tools have been marketed with grandiose claims. Super Tools! Until a driver head twists. A pliers head snaps. A knife chips or rolls. People came to expect much more from a Multitool. A light pocket knife does not undo rusty bolts or claim the base can be used as a hammer, like the MUT. Multitools are often overused. The generous warranties and often great customer service has ruined quality control. Imagine offering a rifle in a military contract bid, and you say, "Not the best material, but if it jams, or the barrel explodes, we'll happily replace it!" On the battle field that service warranty is bupkis. Zip. A multitool firm needs to think journeyman and soldier and bushtrekker. But instead the marketing is for suburban man-toys. Mostly. Our army, the IDF, uses LM Waves a lot. Especially the engineering and armoured corps. But they do break a lot. A soldier needs two, for waiting out repairs. And the Wave is one of the best MTs. So everyone screams "better steel!" Because so many misuse knives. 420HC isn't a good steel for prying, or even opening carton boxes all day. No one does that with a SAK Spartan pocketknife. But they seem to try with multitools. On a job I'd carry a Surge or SwissTool. But a tool roll or chest with pliers and drivers snd ory bars, and a box cutter and a saw and hammer etc. would come out for real bang slam heavy job. An all super steel Surge, even at $300 or more, now that would be great! Not just the blade, but everything much more robust. My dream. One tool for life. Meanwhile. Victorinox has light pocketknife engineering down. As did Sheffield Barlow knife manufacturers in England. Back when dads showed sons how to use and care for a knife. For now, Surge, SwissTool, Spirit, SuperTool, Wave are darn good if not abused. SOG pliers are great, but little tools flimsy. Gerber is too hit or miss to even bother commenting. Again thanks. Your reviews are at the top of the game on KZbin. Sorry for being long winded. Occupational hazard of being 65 and unemployed. Cheers!

[@Jimbyjimb]

David Siegel, it’s really nice to be able to come to this channel and read comments from people who actually know what they’re talking about. For my uses I’ve actually found the Spirit more durable in most respects than my old Charge was.

[@BacterialAsh]

@@davidsiegel9847 I know this comment is a year old, but I just want to say it is tremendously insightful, and thank you for it.

[@peddypeoples941]

I would not use my Swisstool for the hardes6tasks but it can take a lot of abuse,more than a Leatherman. The swiss are smart and harden the different tools accordingly, the knife has more hardness than the screwdriver or pliers for example making those less prone to break.

[@kmtphx]

Hey Ben, great review. I'm a big fan of the SwissTool, and have had one for a very long time. I always consider the knife blades on multitools as backups to my primary knife. I have also recently fallen in love with the Rebar. I think the thing I like about the Rebar is the same thing I like about the SwissTool, which is that the tools are there and I don't need to carry accessories to fully implement all the tool's capability. I imagine that you're coming more from a tradesman's background whereas I am more of a tinkerer, and I respect your opinion as I'm sure you get a lot of use from your tools. Thanks for the review!

[@txtoolcrib]

You make a good point about the SwissTool and Rebar. You’re correct, I see things from a tradesman’s perspective. I try to see things from others point of view as much as possible though. Hopefully my content reflects that.

[@CircuitsAndStrings]

I just got a great deal on a used SwissTool. So I had to watch this video again. 😀 I’m super impressed with it.

[@txtoolcrib]

Very nice multi tool. I just wish they offered more variations.

[@CircuitsAndStrings]

@@txtoolcrib I agree. And I keep thinking about how awesome a “Juice” sized SwissTool would be.

[@greggraham8532]

2001 SWISSTOOL VS 2021 SWISSTOOL X: Ben, thank you for your excellent videos. I've been debating a Surge plus bit kit and extension versus a Swisstool X plus to replace my 20-year old Swisstool that still works fine but has been used a lot. It will be retired to my emergency kit after a good cleaning and sharpening. Here's how I made my decision. 1) I really like the robustness and the bit driver of the Surge, but it just felt too heavy in my hand (and I don't like the lighter but smaller Wave and didn't consider it a viable choice; good choice when compared to a Spirit). At twelve ounces, the Surge is twice the weight of my heaviest multibit screwdriver; most of my other screwdrivers are 3-4 ounces. 2) The Leatherman ratchet is a great idea but needs work (thank you for your testing video). The Victorinox ratchet seems better, although the Leatherman bit kit includes many more bits. 3) Here in Canada, the Swisstool -- despite having a locking blade -- is probably "more legal" because the blade is microns under 3 inches long, has a less aggressive point, and is designed for two-handed opening. Has both metric and imperial rulers. 4) I have been very satisfied with my Swisstool; it has really proven its merit. After 20 years some of the tools are worn but it still works and doesn't have a spot of rust on it. And paint wipes right off the stainless steel. 5) Although price wasn't an issue, the Swisstool X Plus was actually significantly less expensive that a Surge with all the extras. So, I ordered the Swisstool X Plus directly from Victorinox. To my surprise, IT HAS BEEN REDESIGNED compared to my 2001 model! First, the pliers are of much heavier construction, with more material in the jaws. It is now unquestionably a heavy duty multitool. Second, the pliers have been improved. They are blunter, with a point about twice as wide as they used to be. The soft wire cutter was added; my old Swisstool didn't have one. Third, the tip of the "crate opener" is much thicker than it used to be, and the rivets look like they might be a little heavier. The crate opener was strong before, but now it's a mini prybar. Fourth, the tip of the smallest screwdriver is now a tad more narrow, maybe 2 instead of 2.5 mm? It will fit small set screws better. Fifth, when unfolded into a pistol shape, the new one has less play and actually is 90 degrees. There could be wear on the old one, or course. Victorinox claims in the enclosed instructions that it does form a 90 degree square. I checked it with a framing square, and it's pretty darn good. Maybe not what you would use for large sheet goods, but certainly plenty good enough for many jobs like marking a 2X for cutting or putting up shelving, etc. Finally, all in all, although it is exactly the same size, the Swisstool X somehow gives the visual impression of being a more solid tool. Other changes are minor. Cosmetically, it no longer has the red painted Victorinox logo on the handle and the name "Victorinox" engraved on the pliers. And of course the lanyard hole is now a slot to fit the cork screw. A significant change is the sheath. Holy moly, Batman! It's a beast! Super solid leather construction with a riveted belt loop, and the leather is a full 1/8 inch thick. People complain about the velcro instead of a snap, but the velcro closure on this thing is a strip 1 inch wide by 2.75 inches long. It's not gonna open by accident! The sheath has interior compartments; a box for the multitool, and two loops for the extension and the corkscrew with eyeglass screwdriver. The bit sleeve with ratchet fits perfectly behind the multitool in the space that's left. Gotta say I'm superimpressed so far. The Swisstool X is even better than the old Swisstool, and I thought that the best multitool I had ever seen when I bought it. It has the super-functional design and high-quality finish of Victorinox combined with a heavy duty construction; this is a real tool, not a toy. *** QUESTION: The enclosed instruction sheet says "Ratchet (30 Nm)". Will you be stress testing the Victorinox ratchet like you did the Leatherman?

[@txtoolcrib]

Sounds like SwissTool is the right choice for you. I will be testing the Victorinox ratchet when I have time, yes.

[@peddypeoples941]

Great analysis and comparison. I had the 98 version for a very long time,always worked perfectly but the newer version is indeed even better, the file is more agressive and I love the new opening and closing,rock solid. Why not more people use it baffles me.

[@michaelsmith9308]

Ben, this was a EXCELLENT video on my TWO TOP choices of multi tools in the WORLD! I agree with you completely on the changeable teeth cutters on the pliers, the need to attach a socket to the swiss, etc, and im sure in the VERY near future the Swiss WILL catch up to the Leatherman Surge when they get their tooling updated. The Swiss is just slimmer and does everything I NEED to cut small strings and paper etc......... My swiss is HIGHLY polished with chrome polish and looks as reflective as a mirror! The swiss is SIMPLY the ROLEX of multi tools, while the surge is the TIMEX and gets the job COMPLETELY done at a heavier and more rough method in finish and size! At work, one day my co worker assisted me with his huge 300 tool and yes it was huge and got the job done. Then he asked me if i carried a multi tool, i said yes and brought out the Swiss X, he almost fainted from the SHINE alone and the size combined, he thought it was JEWELRY! To each their own, mine is the Swiss X first second is the UNQUESTIONED SURGE! Gerbor, SOG not even in the same class...................Ok, maybe?

[@txtoolcrib]

Swisstool X is one of my favorites for sure. I rather think of the Surge and Swisstool as one ton trucks, and the X as the high powered sports car. All of them have their place though.

[@XseuguhX]

I couldn't disagree more with your point about the bit driver being separate from the main multi-tool. When I need to tighten bolts, i can use the pliers to keep the nut in place while tightening with the bit driver tool. I don't even know how you'd do that with a Supertool. Your other points are absolutely fair, but I will say that if you carry a dedicated knife (which does open one handed), the fact that you need both hands to open the knife is way less relevant. Great in depth review tho.

[@txtoolcrib]

Thank you sir. You make a valid point about the drivers.

[@max_archer]

I love these Victorinox MTs, especially the Spirit. I don't think anything on the market comes close when it comes to a general-purpose EDC tool, particularly if you're somebody who, like me, also carries a dedicated folding knife. That glossy finish is a big advantage to me as well, it may be a fingerprint magnet but it also means crud and dirt clean right off, and it's a way more corrosion-resistant finish than the raw sandblasted finish LM uses on parts of their tools.

[@txtoolcrib]

All of those are very good reasons to carry a Victorinox. They do make some high quality multi tools for sure.

[@mackjones7688]

I am really curious as to why no one does electro polishing or general polishing as well as acid etching or tumbled finishes on Leathermans to scratch the various finish addictions people have for their EDC carry preferences. Just polishing metal helps it resist corrosion quite a bit naturally. I bet if I took a Surge. Mirror polished all the tools of the Surge. Acid etched and rock tumbled the frame, swapped out the main blade for M390 (maybe CPM 154), and the Scissors for a modified and polished M390 (or CPM 154) upgrade with superior fit and finish to any Victorinox offering. Throw this custom offering out there on etsy, or something and I bet you will have Ben's attention.

[@nickmeadows5152]

Great review. 👍 Now I want a swisstool!!

[@txtoolcrib]

Lol. It’s a pretty awesome multi tool. Victorinox knows what they are doing.

[@TinyIslandMaine]

Nice review. I have an older (early 90’s?) Swiss tool. Still going strong. The only difference I see is that where your corkscrew holes are key hole shaped, mine are just circles. Don’t know if they had attachments back then. The biggest (and only) drawback for me is access to the tools. I keep my fingernails very short so I need to keep a large paper clip attached to the sheath to give me access to the nail nicks and easier deployment. Love the tool otherwise and it complements my Leatherman wave, Leatherman PST, and Gerber multi tools nicely. Great reviews keep them coming.

[@txtoolcrib]

Thank you, and thank you for watching.

[@SteelSolider1]

If i am not wrong... First SwissTools comes out in 97/98

[@peddypeoples941]

they way the pliers open, the smoothness, allways makes me happy and the newer swisstool is actually even a bit nicer than my old one from 98. I love it that this 25 odds year old design still is very functional and competitive. I dont have the surge but i like my old wave also quite a lot and think its a smart design so i get why you like the surge a lot. I just gravitate to the swisstool because one handed opening is not street legal in germany and the swiss just make great precision tools. I think the competition between those big boy brands is healthy for the industry and im psyched to see what the future brings.

[@MIIIB]

After 6 months since my last review. I had to say that I been using more Vic Swisstool X or spirit xc plus with a dedicated knife ( Benchmade mini Bugout / Buck 110 Slim Pro / Buck 110 2021 limited edition - Carbon Fiber and aluminum 4.8 oz.) And I had been doing amazing. Sometimes the Charge g10/ Wave + with the full kit using a skith solutions sheaths. Sometimes I add the Buck 893 Tanto and use it as prybar and utilitarian knife it not long enough or short a good fixed blade that help me to dig in soil, use a heavy duty prybar. ..... For some reason I had been rotating more with Vic. The one movement tool it's very comfortable instead of taking 3-4 moves for Leatherman besides if I only need the blade I just take my buck and period 1 aingle movement. I think it's faster this way and efficient

[@randomescu]

great review. own a model without serrated blade but with scissors, with ratchet, bits and bit extender. this tool has a Major flaw: it is so gorgeous that i tend to use other tools... edit: the bender is used to bend wires and use at fishing hook. but the best use of thattool is to strip the end of a softwirein order to solder it. i tried that, it works very well. put the wire end in that notch then push the tool in, as in closing the tool completely. then open the tool. the striped plastic might remain inside, so remove it. i dont know its the official way to be used but i know from my experience that it works well. only with soft wires. my Surge was a huge dissapointment, many tools kinda broke after short normal usage. im not a leatherman hater, my Squirt PS4 is very good.

[@MIIIB]

Ben, you always make very good reviews. I had a Swisstool and my opinion is this MT is by far what we can agree to call 'general purpose'. To be honest, my go options to go out with my family are this Swisstool and the G10 Charge + depending the place we go out. I always carry a G10 110 Buck slim pro.(Highly recommend) so my primary blade ( 1 hand by the way) id the Buck and my backup the Swisstool. The single tool opening balance the low difficulty to open each tool. I'm a Surge lover when I dont csrry main blades. If I do carry the ST300 is my choice, more simple and general offering tools. This last months I had some necessity to take out the accessories it felt like carry more than I need, specially when I had all thr time a Veto Pro Bag full with dedicated tools and s complete Makita power tools bag, so the accessories are not Handy is extra dead weight and ny this opinion the Surge had been resting more at the bench and the 300 being with me more often. This Swisstool is a fancy general purpose. Really like the mechanism and.hyper quality. Sir, as always excellent video!,

[@txtoolcrib]

Thank you, and thank you for sharing your experiences. Great to get perspective on what works and doesn’t work from everyone.

[@JimLBon]

Turned me off the Free, turned me on the SwissTool. Thanks for helping me get poorer on tools that actually work!

[@txtoolcrib]

The Swisstool is an outstanding multi tool. It is high-quality and every sense of the word. I still prefer the surge, mostly due to the outside accessible blades.

[@F3udF1st]

We don't really use millimeters that much in Europe, centimeters is the common measurement! Great review, I'm pondering which Swisstool to get and I know your reviews are excellent!

[@recycled3654]

It also forms a framing square, you can square off of any wall with the Swisstool, using a string line or chalk line or mark a 90 degree cut with it. I use the pry tool to open paint cans because I don't have to chase down a screw driver, it's become the natural choice for me. The Swisstool is my favorite multitool over the Leatherman Super Tool 300, or even the Victorinox Spirit.

[@txtoolcrib]

I like the Swisstool a lot, but the square forming is a misconception. It is second to only the Leatherman Surge for me. I like the one handed knives and the overall better pliers of the Leatherman Surge.

[@recycled3654]

@@txtoolcrib It's the same 90 degree angle as on a speed square or tri-square. I wouldn't say the Swiss Tool was better than the Surge, the Surge is probably much stronger and quicker to deploy. I was just adding the framing square to it because many reviewers never mention that ability.

[@txtoolcrib]

recycled365 I understand what you are trying to say. I want to be clear, I think the Swisstool is a fantastic multi tool. The Surge just fits my needs a bit better. Concerning the “square” function. There is square and not square. It is either 90° or it isn’t. There is no close when finding square. The Swisstool is close to square, but it will vary between 1 and 2 degrees out of square, thereby rendering it not square. Don’t take my word for it, try it for yourself. It does make a pretty good mini straight edge though, something that even the mighty Surge can’t do.

[@recycled3654]

@@txtoolcrib I could probably use it as a speed square for cutting or laying out kitchens for chalk lines. I wouldn't recommend it as a standard framing tool though, just like I wouldn't recommend any multitool pliers as being best than Lineman's pliers for cutting or wire twisting. Our multitools fill out a emergency need if nothing else was available and may save the day.

[@txtoolcrib]

That is most certainly true.

[@conservativeamerica5888]

Best multitool ever made!!

[@MybeautifulandamazingPrincess]

Victorinox and Wenger have so many amazing multi tools, the Pioneer and Cadet, the Trekker (my personal EDC), the Wenger traveler. The cellidor models are classic, but I prefer the ALIX models myself, specially the 93mm one, the Pioneer

[@appleztooranges]

My dad found one on the road. He gave me it. Sweet find. My first victorinox. I typically own Leatherman’s

[@txtoolcrib]

That’s pretty lucky.

[@chrisfyfe4047]

Good review ! Of the Vic. Multi’s , I prefer the Spirit X . Good horsepower to weight ratio ! Build quality is superb .

[@txtoolcrib]

Hard to disagree with that. The Spirit X has a lot of functionality.

[@BladeWalker77]

Ok you convinced me! I think the surge will be my present for Christmas. I would like to introduce an argument about the serrated edge. I'm Shure Leatherman and victorinox are doing it in the right way. They sharpen it on the right side! A lot of knives have the serration sharpened on the opposite side and I tested both. I'm sure the serrations on this multitools are far better when you use it for process wood or food prep ( I use my multitools for hiking, camping...). I can slice onions like sheets of paper with the Vic and Leatherman serrations. I'm interested in your opinion about that.

[@txtoolcrib]

Talking specifically about the Surge and the SwissTool, I think they are both great serrated blades. I think that the Leatherman blade is a bit more conducive to heavier work. I think that the Victorinox blade would be better for stuff like food prep. It’s really hard to choose one over the other because they both work so well.

[@Carbonero1747]

I have both too, and love them. The knife is not a deal breaker for me because i carry a separate folder. I asked once about the one hand deployment of the knife in some sak's and in the multitool and was told that in some markets like the German the laws for carry knives are that if they have one hand deployment they're consider a weapon and they're in some cases forbidden.

[@txtoolcrib]

It is a shame that the laws in other countries are so strict when it comes to knives. It really limits the selection of multi tools down to just a select few. I will never understand how people can let their governments become so intrusive in democratic countries.

[@nunyafuckinbizniz]

Excellent response I totally agree

[@grayssoncarl5020]

@@txtoolcrib That happens when a few people control most media and the government. But a lot of other countries cant undestand not having health insurance for all people either. I could probably live with our gun laws but our knife laws are completely nuts. This is legal: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g6uZfHuiaq2VhM0 But this is not: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gKSwoKOfpNifitU So over here in Germany the Swisstools are legal to carry unlike the onehand opening Leathermans. In the end youre better off carring a Spirit X and a Spyderco UKPK. Otherwise you risk losing your knifes/multitools when controlled by the police for some reason. If youre less lucky you get fined too or worse depending how the police officer feels that day.

[@benningsniper9516]

Great tool. I owned this one for years. My surge beats it in durability and flexibility, so this one takes a back seat. Very beautiful and refined tool though.

[@T.Sizzle]

I watch your videos & often go back to them if I have a question. (Yes, I spend too much time thinking about multitools ha ha. They still make me feel just a bit like they did as a 12 year old boyscout when I bought by first Victorinox at the Scout Camp in Texas called El Rancho Cima. You may have gone there too) Where was I? lol. Right on an idea. I wish we didn’t have to chose between the wavy blade and scissors. I like both quite a bit. Wish they’d add an option to customize your tool / implement layout from the factory. This would include order of implements as far as what position. For example, awl that runs parallel with the handle. I’d pay for that option.

[@txtoolcrib]

Hopefully someday we will have the option to customize.

[@doctoruttley]

Swiss tool MBX is my go to.

[@dc76384]

With the high polish finish, the Victorinox MT's could be used as a signal mirror in a survival situation.

[@txtoolcrib]

I've never used a signal mirror in my life, so it's not high on the priority list for me.

[@jacksoncardoso8349]

Great Review. Did you feel any play on the pliers or Swisstool tools?

[@Flockingtheherd]

I still like my leatherman pst.. although the victory box would be a nice upgrade for the saw. And I like the way those jaws look.

[@DefMunkyYT]

Honestly, I prefer shiny multi-tools if they aren't coated as the polished surface seems to resist rust WAY better. I also prefer the interior tools to be shiny as well for the same reason. The dull putty gray finish other manufacturers seem to like can be prone to rust spotting or just discoloration.

[@txtoolcrib]

That’s true

[@jeffmcgrath8718]

The cork screw is very handy for untying knots

[@vlodek-193]

Mine, when opened to a square, has an almost perfect angle of 90 degrees, so when it comes to measuring the right angle there are probably better and worse pieces, I think :) Greetings from Poland! Ps. Oh, mine has scissors instead of a serrated blade, I think more useful.

[@plumbraider2265]

It’s also easy to strop victorinox knives. Usually a few passes on the back of my belt gets me by in between sharpening my victorinox tools.

[@MrBigangry]

I found an old victorinox ,multitool not sure which one, in like 2006 or 7. I found it walking on railroad tracks it was just sitting there between the tracks. I had the thing about 10 years before I lost it. I'm sure some else will get another 10 years out of it.

[@txtoolcrib]

Speaks to their quality.

[@CircuitsAndStrings]

Great video. Honestly, I’ve never really looked at the SwissTools, but they seem nice. I might have to get one sometime. If you had to get just one, would you get this or the Spirit X?

[@txtoolcrib]

I personally would get this one. The reason is because I rely on larger , more capable tools for my application. Most people I think would lean towards the Spirit X I think. Both are great though.

[@CircuitsAndStrings]

Awesome. Thanks for the reply. 🙏

[@stephanbotha2974]

U can also put the micro-screwdriver into the wrench, or any other tool that can take such a bit

[@txtoolcrib]

Not sure I understand what you’re trying to say.

[@stephanbotha2974]

The micro-screwdriver in the corkscrew can also fit into the wrench if u need a bit more power then just two fingers can provide. It is the same size and shape as the bits that comes with the plus

[@txtoolcrib]

Stephan Botha Okay, that makes sense. Thanks for sharing.

[@danebotha9143]

I just got the wave and now looking at the surge for when I make large game fences for the big 5 here is south africa and I have used the wave for the heavy duty electric wire and the perform amazingly even tho they arent like my fence pliers and cutters they get the job done when I find a broken section when I forget my fence pliers. Highly recommend the leatherman wave and surge I had a swisstool back when it was called that and the worked for a good 5 years then eventually wear got the better of them no there is too much Plier play on them and they can't cut like the use to.

[@txtoolcrib]

If you think the Wave is good for that type of work, just wait until you get your hands on the Surge. While both of them are excellent multi tools, the Surge far and away exceeds the Wave from a capability standpoint. As far as the Victorinox goes, they have a lifetime warranty. Although I’ve never had to send anything to them, I understand that their warranty department will treat you right.

[@danebotha9143]

Unfortunatley it was my grandfathers swisstool and he passed it down to me a while back before he passed away and I am looking at getting the surge but in this country of mine I’m looking at 240$ to buy it.

[@txtoolcrib]

Tips N Tricks oh my! That’s not cheap. The Surge really is a beast though.

[@danebotha9143]

Yeah not cheap at all you must create a discord where we can all chat

[@muxmurki1497]

btw, if a metal saw gets dull, that's what those tiny triangle files are for... sharpen it yourself! I always carry a Swiss very fine file of that sort in my EDC, just in case.

[@thomash.4501]

I did enjoy your tool review. You shouldn´t forget where the Swiss Tool comes from. In some countries in Europe you can´t have a one hand opening blade that locks on you. This is why the did it. I know it sounds funny to you but it is what it is.

[@txtoolcrib]

Thomas H. I completely get where you’re coming from, and you’re right. The strict knife laws in Europe are really strange for Americans to wrap their heads around. What an intrusive infringement on rights that is. I appreciate you taking the time to watch my videos.

[@thomash.4501]

@@txtoolcrib I do like to watch reviews if they are well made like yours. For us here in Europe it´s not so easy to find the right multitool to EDC. Good thing there are still tools out there like the Rebar. What I would like to see the Leatherman PST again. Not the 250$ special edition tool.

[@HeikoBertram]

Does the bitholder for the supertool 300 fit the victorinox?

[@MrDkgio]

I find that stropping keeps Victorinox blades really sharp, very rarely does it actually need sharpening, I use mine regularly and go 1 to 2 years before actual sharpening required.

[@karlgustav5490]

corkscrew is just a must-have in europe, you cant sell any serious multitool or even a multiblade folding knife without it, you just shouldnt be able to find a customer for it.. the biggest complaint i hear abour leatherman is the lack of corkscrew. which is totally understandable for a american cie. that's why we always have one on victorinox.

[@letsgobrandon8375]

The only thing i would change on the swisstool would be the blunted pliers i wish they had the shape of a surge.I also wish they had an option for a pocket clip. The surge and the swisstool are the best, i beat the hell out of each of them and they keep coming back for more.

[@txtoolcrib]

You’ll get no argument from me. I think they are the best two also.

[@letsgobrandon8375]

@@txtoolcrib Thanks for taking the time and making the videos. My youngest son will sit and watch them with me before he goes to bed.

[@txtoolcrib]

That’s nice to hear, you’re very welcome.

[@alexanderjuarez1713]

Is this better or worse than the Swisstool spirit X? Both look good but I want to see your opinion

[@DBoom70]

Did it have any blade play or wiggle anywhere? I had two of them and they both were sloppy. It was disappointing since my spirit x is perfection. Great vid.

[@txtoolcrib]

No, the SwissTool is very well made. Every implement locks solidly on this multi tool. It is definitely one of my favorites.

[@DBoom70]

@@txtoolcrib Victorinox is amazing. I have two Swisstool Spirit X and bought two of the full size but returned both of them because they didn't seem to have the same tightness/tolerances that all of my SAKs have. I'll have to give another try to see if I got a couple of lemons. I love everything else that I've owned from Victorinox.

[@tobias2358]

I tested it: not only does the rebar have the same aggressive file which has also a metal saw instead of an edge file, that metal saw on the file of the rebar also is serrated or how to call that. Put the rebar with a file on a white paper and let a shadow fall from the file to the paper. Look at the metal saw side... And then the oder side. The metal saw side throws a "wave style" formed shadow

[@georgeronnieburnettburnett4684]

I enjoy your videos and respect your opinion.My question is not related to this paticular multi tool.I have a LM free p4.Have used the pliers very little.I cut a small cable with the cutters and it cut it easily but since i did it has been stiffer to open and close I oiled it but didnt help.What do you think? Thanks.

[@txtoolcrib]

Thank you on both accounts. This is an issue I found as well when comparing the Wave + to the P4. I have seen others use their thumb and forefinger on the needle nose to basically pry them apart sideways. It has seemed to help in certain instances. I hope this helps.

[@Genesis992]

The Free does this. You can loosen it up by opening and closing the pliers while applying upward force to one arm and downward force on the other arm. They’ll loosen up fairly quickly.

[@peddypeoples941]

The only pliers smoother than my Swisstool are the old Knipex pliers from my grandfather, those are pure bliss.

[@soundknight]

I like your review style and your event where abouts' in the US is it from?

[@txtoolcrib]

I think you're asking where I am from. I am from Texas.

[@fc436]

Very good rewieuw!! I have leatherman surge, wave, skeletool and Victorinox swisschamp. I prefer leatherman multitool,But i like Victorinox swisstool and spirit.

[@txtoolcrib]

All very good tools in my opinion.

[@scottmcintosh2988]

I still have a very early Swiss Tool got it at a pawn shop 40 bucks I have nothing but Vicrronox now the best !!!

[@frankdaniels1763]

I have the swisstool x it's a decent tool.

[@txtoolcrib]

I like it.

[@james-butcher]

25:57 isnt it proper square when then pliers are on outside ie if u move the handle thats pointing down 180 degrees.

[@roy-batty]

Damn, I really wish it was better when it comes to cutting stranded copper wire. It tends to chew and leave mess. Leatherman is far better at it and SOG seems to be the best.

[@thedude1292]

I was blown away from Vics repair service, i send in my really beat up Swisstool. (Plier head had welding dots all over it, small screwdriver bent a little, phillips head broken, file pretty used up, reshaped chisel) i asked them to replace the broken tools, get a new file in and if they could replace the serrated blade with scissors, no sharpening or other service needed. They replaced all tools and the plier head but kept the old frame and send it back too me. What did i get charged? Around 18,50€ for the service and 3,50€ for shipping. Thats what i call a really great customer service! As far i remember they told me a used up file falls not under warranty and the knife to scissor swap is no problem but both coast a little fee, sure the welding dots on the plier head does not fall under warranty too, hell they even fixed the small alignment issue of the frame it had since it got out factory the first time lol. On the same day i send out a leatherman squirt ps4 with a broken scissor spring. The service was free, aside shipping, but it took two weeks longer. I got a new ps4 send back but the quality really sucks on this one, the file is almost dull on one side and the tool does not really close well and sticks alot. I was not as happy with the LM service as i was with the Vic.

[@michaelk487]

Cool

[@bordeaux6401]

Backlash out of the box

[@doohantallywhack8267]

Does this tool have a wire crimper? It lists that it does?

[@txtoolcrib]

Unfortunately, no.

[@edgaraquino2324]

@@txtoolcrib Hello Ben - I recently purchased a Swisstool X and the manual says function (#23) is a crimper...Nicos Doulas has a video where he uses that "capability"- could you have another look to see if it is an actual functionality or is Victorinox just adding functions to its tools? Thanks!

[@ghosttjr2]

Where’s the scissors? Mine came with it

[@scottmcintosh2988]

Cyber tool 34 light is what you want !

[@bigneek714]

One thing about Swisstools is they are bomb proof. I’ve seen 1 or 2 surface on the internet with broken pliers. I’ve done things with my swisstools that I know would break a leatherman

[@nunyafuckinbizniz]

Best multi tool quality around.....However no one hand opening, no bit driver and no pocket clip or lanyard

[@txtoolcrib]

Those are all very good points. The lack of one handed opening of the knife blades is the one I consider the largest drawback to this tool.

[@sgr6258]

@@txtoolcrib One hand opening makes it illegal for EDC in many countries which is why they don't implement it. However I've seen a couple of special versions of these with thumb lips for one handed opening.

[@CarlosAmaya-nb6ps]

I'm thinking in getting the victorinox BS but this is good too.

[@txtoolcrib]

Just about anything from Victorinox is good in my opinion.

[@joeyneat1]

I own two one with scissors one without. Nice tool but the outside tools are very hard to open I need to use a coin.

[@txtoolcrib]

That is one of the downfalls. I agree.

[@ksajak]

I just put some three in one oil on it and work it in. Eventually they get easier

[@jxckc351]

the surge is still the ultimate multitool.

[@txtoolcrib]

You won’t hear any argument from me.

[@jayn8392]

Idk why but I have never been able to get cozy with victornox's knife blades. I just don't like the shape or how thin they are, more do I like the nail nick vs a cut out or thumb stub. And as silly as it sounds I think they are ugly. Also don't like their adherence to slip joints. And a complaint in general on almost all multi tools, if it has a knife I don't need scissors, I also don't need a file, or a bottle opener or a can opener. What I need is a good, locking driver about an inch long with exchangeable bits. I use the plyers, standard replaceable cutters (as both a wire stripper and cutter), the knife and the saw. And everyone should be ripping off Leatherman's exchangeable saw system from the surge. Also Leatherman needs to stop with the proprietary bits. I mean you can't even find the bit kits too buy in the first place. Idk if it*s a supply chain issue but I looked about everywhere and they are sold out all over. But anyway lose a few superfluous tools and add a great locking driver with a bit of length and standard bits. The center drive is the closest to what I need but l generally dislike Gerber and the way the players deploy. But I may cave and get one for the awesome driver as it is half the reason I need a multi tool.

[@pjgppjgp]

I can open most of the tools on my swistool one handed. Maybe because I have smaller fingers

[@johnblackmon4005]

Hey Ben I kind of like the looks Victorinox swisstool but I'm like you leatherman surge is a much better multi tool than victorinox swisstool.

[@txtoolcrib]

Both of them are really great multi tools, I’m just really partial to the surge for those outside accessible blades. Or rather, the one-handed outside accessible blades. Overall I like the toolset just a touch better as well.

[@frankstarship6381]

For me, the fact that you can't open the blade with one hand is a good thing. So no one can say that it is a weapon

[@Ayrton4everrr]

"Crate" tool in europe as in a "crate of paint opener", not like a "crate box" like the old beer crates 😉

[@txtoolcrib]

Well that would make more sense. Thank you for clearing that up.

[@Ayrton4everrr]

@@txtoolcrib welcome buddy

[@JogieGlenMait]

Too bad, Leatherman is not readily available in the Philippines. Victorinox is.

[@txtoolcrib]

That’s a shame.

[@Claudius_Nero]

I have mixed feelings on my Swisstool and Spirit. The have flawless fit and finish, excellent walk and talk, and the individual tool implements are excellent--every tool does its job. The downside is that things like replaceable cutters, replaceable saw or file, premium blade steel, non-riveted construction using fasteners that can be retightened, one hand open and closing anything, integral bit driver, hell, even a pocket clip are all missing. The Swisstool\Spirit are flawlessly executed designs from 30 years ago lacking any modern innovations. So they're excellent but seriously dated designs imo.

[@txtoolcrib]

I too wish they would do something with their pliers. They make such good tools, wish they would devote more time to their multi tool lines. Would love to see their version of a scissor based pocket tool, similar to the Micra.

[@scottmcintosh2988]

You can get clips now they are the best there ever was !!!

[@MrD0r1an]

The fact that it is not one hand opening makes it legal to carry in Germany (stupid laws prohibit you from carrying one hand locking knives).

[@moccaluis]

23 cm

[@jonscears]

There is steel is a mystery lol

[@borborygmuz3200]

This is ‘going to be’ worth watching once the presenter stops saying everything is ‘going to be’ what it already damn well is. It’s not ‘going to be’ an awl. It IS an awl. Get it right or just stop for christs sake.

[@txtoolcrib]

Triggered much?

[@borborygmuz3200]

@@txtoolcrib I simply cannot watch your videos because of the constant stream of ridiculous language idiosyncrasies you use. It’s called English. You should try it.

[@txtoolcrib]

You’re pretty funny. Do you actually believe that I give a flying leap what you like or don’t like? I’ll take the guesswork out of it for you, I do not. Move along Pedro, nobody wants to hear from you.

[@borborygmuz3200]

​@@txtoolcrib Adios dickhead. Remember - English. You really should give it a try.

[@txtoolcrib]

You want a kleenex for those tears?

[@basanistes359]

Without Leatherman, this tool would not exist. So you Swisstool fans, say thank you to Tim Leatherman.

[@RyderDK]

And without SAKs, we might not have had any Leatherman tools at all. So I guess we can all thank each other.

[@basanistes359]

@@RyderDK SAK was by far not the first multitool. Just so you know.

[@dc76384]

From this review. It seems the Victorinox is junk.

[@txtoolcrib]

Not at all. Victorinox makes excellent tools. This is my second favorite behind the Surge.