Update! Check out our new Leatherman Sidekick review!
Here’s a sneak peak preview of Leatherman’s new Sidekick and Wingman multi-tools! Both tools will start shipping in September rumor has it that the Sidekick will be priced at $40 and the Wingman at $30.
Leatherman Sidekick Multi-Tool
It looks like the Sidekick will feature combination pliers, a plain edge knife blade, what looks to be a brand new wood saw design, Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, keyring hole, bottle opener and can opener, mini file, and what looks to be a mini serrated knife.
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The overall geometry and arrangement of the multi-tool suggests to me that it will be sized as a compact or mid-sized multi-tool, a step above the Skeletool but well below the Wave.
Okay, now tilt your head to the right, and look at the Sidekick’s saw blade. Doesn’t its curved back and thumb-hole made it look like a bad-ass predator head like that of an alligator or dinosaur!? I’ve never had a problem with the performance of Leatherman’s boxier wood saw blades, but this one is definitely better looking.
The closed Sidekick tucks into a rather stylish package. Er… not that we care about that sort of thing.
Leatherman calls this their Sidekick Carabiner Accessory. I’m not sure how this fits together with the Sidekick, but it looks pretty cool by itself. The readily accessible bottle opener is a nice touch.
Leatherman Sidekick via Amazon
Leatherman Wingman Multi-Tool
The Wingman is similar to the Sidekick but for a few important differences. Most notably, the Wingman has a partially serrated knife blade instead of the Sidekick’s plain edge blade. The saw is also exchanged for some robust-looking scissors, and the mini serrated knife blade is replaced by a mini hook thing (awl?). The combination pliers, screwdrivers, bottle and can opener, and file look to be the same as on the Sidekick.
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JML
They’re supposed to be out in September 2011. Intended as entry-level multitools; blades are 420 steel. For more info:
http://www.multi-tool.org/blog/leathermansidekickandwingman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VrCIhp5Yhi8
The carabiner is just a separate accessory. Looks like a keyring would fit easily.
Maikeru
These come straight from the source…
Sidekick SPECS:
Stainless Steel Body
Spring-action Needlenose Pliers
Spring-action Regular Pliers
Wire Cutters
420HC Combo Knife
420HC Serrated Knife
Saw
Wood/Metal File
Ruler (1 in | 2.54 cm)
Small Screwdriver
Medium Screwdriver
Phillips Screwdriver
Bottle Opener
Can Opener
Wire Stripper
Carabiner Bottle Opener
Removable Pocket Clip
Lanyard Ring
Closed Length: 3.8 in | 9.7 cm
Blade Length: 2.6 in | 6.6 cm*
Weight: 7.0 oz | 198.4 g
Wingman SPECS:
Stainless Steel Body
Spring-action Needlenose Pliers
Spring-action Regular Pliers
Wire Cutters
420HC Combo Knife
Package Opener
Wood/Metal File
Scissors
Small Screwdriver
Medium Screwdriver
Phillips Screwdriver
Ruler (1 in | 2.54 cm)
Bottle Opener
Can Opener
Wire Stripper
Removable Pocket Clip
Closed Length: 3.8 in | 9.7 cm
Blade Length: 2.6 in | 6.6 cm*
Weight: 7.0 oz | 198.4 g
The awl-like tool is a “package opener”. That may sound a bit silly, but if you think about it there are quite a few stand-alone tools designed to cut through tough packaging (like the clamshell packaging found on so many things these days) or particularly tenacious, fibre reinforced packing tape without fear of damaging the product therein—as one might when using a knife. Furthermore, I believe that it’s there as a low-cost version of the “cut hook” found on the Charge TTi—which is great for doing things like quickly liberating soda (or bottled water) from the thermal shrink plastic that binds it to its bulk-purchase cardboard tray.
Stuart
JML, Leatherman said pretty much the same in an email, that if they “stay on schedule,” the first shipments will go out in September 2011.
Maikeru, Thanks for those specs. A “package opener” sounds like a great idea! Although, I’ve never really had a problem tearing open taped-up boxes by hand once I make a quick starter-cut with scissors or a knife.
Maikeru
Slightly unrelated, but more related on this post than on the one about the Skeletool bundle (it’s a special release and not a new tool). From what I understand different stores will be carrying differently coloured Skeletools. REI is currently carrying a “Lava Red” model. While currently only available overseas the green model and orange model are hinted at being offered at Cabela’s later this year just after the Wingman and Sidekick release.
Stuart
I have seen the Lava Red model, but didn’t know about the green or orange models, thanks for the heads-up!
The downside to this is that stores like REI and Cabela’s typically price multi-tools at full retail MSRP, so there’s a bit of a premium for little added tool value.
Robert
I find the term “entry level” to be interesting on one extreme and comical on the other. People who insist on those classifications are typically toy collectors. Either that, or they’re self- proclaimed experts who spend their lives on the internet talking about them. Those who use these things in the real world, are often the ones who scale down rather than bulk up. Experience has taught them that if you’re unwilling to carry it, it’s of little use to you. If you’re identifying an “entry level” tool by the number of implements alone, you’d be remiss for not placing the Skeletool or Freestyle in that same category. If you purchased a simple folding knife, is that somehow “entry level?”
I have lugged an original Super Tool since the year they came out. I carry it on my work belt daily. It’s in virtually the same shape today as the day it was purchased. On the other hand, I have no trouble seeing the advantage of a smaller and lighter tool with just the essentials. One of my favorites is a Leatherman Juice S2. It’s void of the fluff, and only includes the things I consider essential. Now obviously that’s subject to opinion. Sight unseen however, I can guarantee that these items are every bit as well constructed. The idea of picking up something beefier while still being compact and lightweight is definitely appealing. That’s to say nothing of the fact that one of them can be obtained for 25% less investment. There is also the advantage of a lower concern for loss or theft due to cost.
I’m not one of those kids with the “mine is bigger than yours” syndrome. That’s a game for the insecure who base their self-worth on irrelevant possessions. These could fill a void that goes far beyond the first time multitool buyer. Depending upon your needs, I can see these being more desirable than many “full sized tools.” The size would be more aggressive than the “pocket tools,” while still being smaller and lighter than most full sized tools.
I’m definitely not a first time multitool buyer. On the other hand, I’d love to get my hands on one of these. I could even see carrying one in place of my Super Tool. For the price, I probably wouldn’t think twice about it.
Maikeru
I think that one might consider them as “entry level” due to price point more than anything else. Their cost—or lack thereof—makes an investment in the tool less of a concern and thus LTG is attempting to cover all the bases with tools at various price points.
Interestingly enough a lot of multitool sorts who like having more than just one around (different ones for work, for the glovebox, for EDC, etc) are interested in picking up one of these models as they’re just the essential tools for everyday use and would thus do better in a situation where one has to wear clothing with little allowance for extra bulk or situations where carrying just the essentials are ideal.
That said while I have a full-sized model of multitool (the model I purchased was only purchased in order to use up all the cash on one of those gift debit cards as they’re impossible to get everything off of) and I still miss the Juice C2 that I used to have before it was stolen. The C2 nestled nicely into the pocketwatch pocket of my jeans with a little room to spare.
Rich S.
I’ve carried the same original Leatherman for nearly 20 years. It’s served me very well. I will probably retire it in favor of either a Wingman or Sidekick, for a few reasons. First of all, I have never been able to justify spending $75 on a new multi-tool when I have one that works pretty well (and has sentimental value). I can afford one, but it offends my sense of frugaility. The two things I wish my original had: 1) A fast deploying, locking blade. The original is nearly useless as a defensive tool because of the slow deployment and non-locking blade. 2) A pocket clip, so I can forego the sheath when I am not wearing a belt.
For me, these new products are ideal an ideal combination of attributes and value, and will be a functional upgrade, whether the experts call them entry level or not.
Robert
Rich,
We’re definitely on the same page. You can take everyone who owns these things and lump them all into one of two categories. Obviously it’s a big generalization. The first are people who simply want them. They’re the types who like to collect things. They spend their lives talking about them, extolling their virtues, debating why theirs is better than another, and passing it around primarily as a collector’s item. It’s a topic of conversation and little more. They’re forever in internet forums discussing them in sickening detail. One is never enough. Businesses such as Leatherman love these people. If I were them, I would too.
Then there are those who view them in a strange and unacceptable manner. They see them as a tool that actually accomplishes things. They’re not concerned about getting scratches on them, and couldn’t care less about their standing in the social order of multitool owners. Their philosophy is that if you’re stupid enough to spend $130.00 on something just to say that you own it, more power to you. While they’re talking about it and avoiding what might result in a scratch or other plight, the second group is simply using them for their intended purpose.
This reminds me of numerous other professions and topics. I spent close to five years apprenticing with a master photographer. I find it amusing how the most extravagant equipment is often used by amateurs. I was astounded by the smaller amount of equipment that many professionals base their careers on. They realize that a photographer is someone who knows how to do something, not an equipment owner. That’s not to suggest that they don’t need decent equipment or that it can’t be expensive. It’s only to say that true professionals work on the skills of their trade. They don’t purchase equipment for the sake of the purchase.
Now would a professional ever purchase a $130.00 multitool? Sure, some of them would. For anyone who actually uses these things however, it’s a tool for a task and nothing more.
I expect these tools to be a bigger hit with people who actually use them. I don’t expect them to appeal to toy collectors. While some are spending time categorizing them as inferior to their non-scratched collector’s items, these people will laugh at them. They’ll see them as a good value and actually use them for their intended purpose. What a novel idea.
Robert
Maikeru
Personally I own an expensive model of Leatherman and talk about its virtues, but don’t mind putting scratches on it (damn tough to do if you ask me) due to use. I’ve used every tool on it numerous times—except for the wire stripper since the hardened wire cutters are typically good enough for stripping most wires that I encounter.
Of course I own an expensive model since someone gave me one of those debit gift cards where they charge you interest after 1 year of activation, so I figured to use up as much money as I could off of the card and the Charge TTi got me within about $0.50 of a full drain (and it cost me a lot less than $130 too).
Anyway, I know exactly what you mean regarding the photography gear. A friend of mine is an hobbyist and has all the super expensive toys. I’m a hobbyist as well, but most of my gear is the over-built stuff from the ’70s and ’80s (tripod, flash, etc) since really that’s all you need.
Robert
Maikeru,
Look, I’ll be candid. I’d be a hypocrite to say that I’d never consider something upscale if I purchased it with “gift money.” I view a gift card or disposable cash as fun money. At least in theory, that’s what they’re intended for. Even then, I tend to be conservative. I can see your point however. I also understand the issue with gift cards and getting the full amount out of them. All of that aside, I think you see my point.
Although Leatherman wouldn’t make a statement to this effect, I’m sure they think the same thing. The Charge models for instance, are primarily geared towards collectors. They’re more for “gadget hounds” who like to show them off. Don’t misunderstand me. Yes, they’re tools like the rest. And frankly, yes, they’re cool. The world would be a boring place if everyone thought the same way. That’s why we have variety. That said, I think that it’s one reason Leatherman created a separate group for the Super Tool and Surge. They need a separate affiliation. They are geared toward people who get down and dirty with tools. A true Super Tool user for example, wouldn’t understand why anyone would pay more for a cool “toy tool.” To them, you’d be nuts to pay substantially more and give up the durability of the Super Tool.
Now would a Charge owner make the purchase for the same reason as a Super Tool owner? Yes, some of them would. I’m not suggesting that true tool users don’t make purchases like that. I am suggesting however, that collector types migrate to a great extent towards those items. I would wager that overall, Charge models are purchased a LOT more by people who simply want them. They’re not purchased as often by those who aggressively use them. If most people were painfully honest, I believe they’d agree with that.
Robert
Maikeru
Yeah, I think that we’re in agreement. Anyway, when it comes down to it I likely would have purchased either a SuperTool 300 or a Wave if I hadn’t been given that card. Also, most owners of the Charge TTi will tell you that the Wave has 90% of what the Charge TTi offers in terms of tools and at a lower cost—thus most will often suggest the Wave when people are in the market for a “do everything” tool.
People who are big fans of mil-spec items will often get as well as suggest that people get the MUT or the MUT EOD. However, the MUT is really only good if you’re a shooter (and really only best if you’re an AR-15 shooter) and the MUT EOD just isn’t as useful if you’re not dealing with explosives as part of your job. I’d say that these folks are part of a 3rd category; “people who purchase black painted items with the word ‘tactical’ or ‘mil spec’ in their description”.
Rich S.
Robert, that was well put.
I’ve come to realize that the more I use something in the real world, the less I am likely to engage in “collector” or “enthusiast” style conversation.
About 15 years ago, I got into bass fishing. I started frequenting a popular bass fishing web site so I could learn more about how to catch bass. I recall ridiculous, longwinded arguments about the number and type of ball bearings in baitcasting reels, and guys actually mixing their own lubricants to get a few extra yards of casting distance out of their equipment, because 3-in-1 Oil (or WD40 or Mobil 1 or whatever) “sucked.”
What I came to realize is that many of those guys were spending time talking about silly minutae like that because, for whatever reason, they couldn’t actually get out and go fishing. The talking was a way to engage in a fantasy about what that wanted to do, but couldn’t.
Not saying that every enthusiast or collector is like that. Sometimes collecting is it’s own hobby. But tools? I prefer to use them. That’s more fun than polishing them, or fondling them and putting ’em back into some sort of display case.
Stuart
You all make very good points.
For the most part, I have feet in both camps – I buy tools to use, but occasionally I do buy one or two more or less for “collecting”. Like some of you, I usually reserve gift cards, birthday gift requests, and credit card reward points, for these types of purchases.
While the Sidekick and Wingman may be marketed as entry-level tools, I agree that their compactness and pricepoint will be hugely appealing to many tool users. I have not yet decided if this is something I “need” or “want” as I already have plenty of mid and full-size tools in my EDC rotation. But at $30 and $40, it may be difficult to pass up. I’ve been considering a Juice for a while for pocket-carry, but could never really justify the cost.
Maikeru
The Juice models are great tools and all but the XE6 will easily fit in the pocketwatch pocket on the right side of one’s jeans. The only caveats besides the price is the fact that the plier jaws have a little more flex in the handle joint than a full-sized if you’re crimping something really stiff; and the fact that the blades don’t lock/aren’t OHO. However, the real plus is that they have the best scissors of all the Leatherman tools—the XE6 pair even has slight ridging for assisting in cutting tough, slippery items like leader line fishing line. Also, people look at you only as strangely as if you pulled out a Swiss Army Knife when you utilize one in a nice restaurant—sadly more spartan looking tools get you some weird looks at places fancier than a sit-down chain.
Stuart
I agree – if I know I’ll be in mixed company, I carry a Victorinox SAK. But that doesn’t help if I think I’ll need pliers, and my favorite SAKs are just as large if not larger than a Leatherman Wave!
A while back I had when I was about to order a Juice, I found a crazy good deal on a Surge and second SuperTool 300. I went with the later option.
Robert
This has turned into an interesting discussion. You know Rich, you’re right. You can find examples of this in every topic. I’ve had people debate me about camera gear for example, who’ve never shot more than a few rolls of film. Without fail they’ll have a $3000.00 camera. The only thing they’re lacking is ANY experience. The internet in particular has perpetuated the “self-proclaimed expert” mentality. In most internet forums, there’s at least an element of anonymity. That becomes a breeding ground for uninhibited comments. I have a brother who is notorious for that. He’s a “collector” and subsequent “expert” on all he collects. He’ll pick up something at Goodwill or a yard sale for example, and have it for a week. Then he knows more about it, in his own mind, than someone who’s used the same thing for thirty years.
There are some who literally achieve a celebrity status on the internet. One guy that comes to mind is “Nutnfancy.” You can “Google” him if you’re not familiar with his “expertise.” He has his own website, don’t ya know. Anyone can be an “expert” on any topic. If you’re articulate and savvy enough, you can count on someone to cling to your every word and take it as gospel.
Let’s face it. We can hear opinions of others until the cows come home. At the end of the day, multitools are individual things. In addition, there are other factors that are unique for each person. Maikeru makes an excellent point about perception. One of the implements that really surprised me in terms of how often I use it is scissors. Prior to that, I never considered the ramifications of knives in public venues. I discovered that even when an onlooker is aware that my tool has an enclosed knife, they’re generally ok as long as I don’t pull it out. People usually don’t question it when I’m just using scissors. I can have the tool in my hand, but they’re fine with the scissors. A DECENT pair of scissors can take the place of a knife in a lot of situations where perception is an issue. That’s one reason that the Juice tools are so nice.
Robert
Stuart
This reminds me of a time not too long ago when a colleague showed me his latest higher-end Leatherman. I don’t remember which model it was, but I do remember him proclaiming to use the tool all the time. It looked brand new to me. To his amazement I showed him that you can reverse the slim-hex shanked screwdriver bit from Phillips to slotted.
I gave back the tool after pulling out the file or saw. The look on his face as he tried to figure out how to close the liner lock somewhat depressed me.
I don’t have a problem with people that buy things for show rather than use, as long as they don’t put themselves on a pedestal or develop false pretenses because of it.
And you guys are right, you do see this everywhere. On computer forums there’s always a few people who must have the latest and greatest tech (even though all they do is browse and check email), in photo forums some people feel the need to boast about their L and premium lenses (that they don’t even use), and on tool forums there are folks that chime in about themselves and all the Snap-on they own when it’s not even pertinent to the conversation.
Regarding knives, a lot of people believe bigger is better. If you’ve ever checked the bestseller list at Amazon, you’d see that the most popular ones are the biggest, tacticooliest, or flashiest. I wouldn’t be surprised if most of these knives and tools end up unused in a kitchen drawer until a new guest or visitor stops by. That by itself is relatively okay and harmless, as long as one doesn’t develop a habit of it.
Rich S.
Robert, I find nutnfancy to be mostly genuine. He is out there testing gear in real world conditions. He’s also an Air Force pilot with combat deployments under his belt. That’s pretty real world. On the other hand, he’ll harp about an extra ounce or two of weight for some multi-tool or knife, but his EDC fanny pack is like a clown car for knives. How can one or two ounces of weight in one tool matter so much when you’re pulling a half-dozen mini tools and folding knives out of a pack you carry every day? Either the weight matters, or it doesn’t.
Because of the Intenret, it’s easy for any of us to quickly gather a lot of info and sound “expertly” in short order. The ability to get the info is great. Our ability to keep our egos in check…questionable. 🙂
On a somber note, this past weekend I may have finally lost my original Leatherman. I recently purchased some rural acreage, and was working on a a couple of differnet projects there. I either dropped it out of the sheath, or put it down somewhere and lost track of it somewhere in the field or woods. Can hardly believe it. Was hoping to retire it at home. Holding out hope that I’ll find it again. Meanwhile, I only have an early model Gerber mult-tool as a backup, and it is woeful by comparison. Has a very sharp knife and the tools lock in place, but deploying the tools is slow, particularly the pliers. It will have to hold me over until the Wingman/Sidekick come out.
Rich S.
Stuart, along those lines, a friend of mine showed me two very expensive knives this weekend that he carries in a tool bag. Great knives. Beautiful. Did I mention expensive? Very expensive, as in, probably more costly than an average handgun. Neither had a mark on it from any kind of use. They looked great though. Meanwhile, I pulled out a $1 stainless Chinese-made knife for the electrical work we had at hand. Guess what? It did the trick.
Stuart
It couldn’t have been more expensive that Leatherman’s Del Rey!
I’m guilty of trying to preserve my higher end knife blades as well. I’ll use them as much as possible, but if there’s the chance I’ll nick a blade (such as when cutting through a taped & stapled box), I’ll reach for my favorite beater knife. Still, I can’t say that I’m afraid to use a better knife or tool for a rough job – that’s what they’re there for! A tool used is worth two on the shelf.
Rich – that totally sucks, I hope you find your multi-tool! Maybe head out at dusk or dawn with a powerful flashlight to see if a reflection reveals its position?
Maikeru
Stuart,
based on your description of the Leatherman that your friend had I’d say that it was likely a model based on the new Wave design (Wave, Charge Al, Charge Alx, Charge TTi) as if it had locking blades and had been anything else it would have been fairly memorable (Skeletool, Surge, MUT, MUT EOD). Him not knowing about those things is a bit of a shame. I mean if it had been the hidden lanyard ring, then I might understand—sometimes I even forget that it’s there. Hopefully he took note and learned as it’s best for those who were wrong before to learn instead of continuin to be wrong.
Anyway, personally I use my knives and multitools as often as I can when appropriate, but I’ll maintain them as often as I can by making sure that the blades are sharp and everything is greased and free of lint. If I put dull areas in the blade I’ll obsess about fixing them since I hate when the blade snags or leaves ragged cuts. Of course I’m not opposed to using either to hack down a cardboard box they’re often the closest tool at hand.
Robert
Stuart,
There’s nothing intrinsically wrong with collecting as far as that’s concerned. I might shrug my shoulders, but I don’t have a personal issue with it. It’s more of a wonderment and curiosity. Even if it’s a habit, it’s ultimately their business. My issue begins when they start handing out “expert” advice. Even then, we all need to exercise a level of discernment. Anyone who accepts an anonymous entry in a forum as gospel, kind of has it coming. We should always have a healthy degree of skepticism.
You’re right about the “L” lenses. These days, the difference between a good and a great lens in terms of image quality can be literal nitpicking. If you handed the average person who purchased an “L” lens 2 photos, one taken with their “L” lens and the other with a “kit” lens, assuming all other variables were the same, most couldn’t tell the difference. They always think they can, but typically can’t. Ownership is usually more about being seen with them. If you were selling those photos to an editor with an experienced eye, that might be different. Most of these people are not.
There’s another phenomenon that can be entertaining too. Have you ever witnessed someone who praises an item as the greatest multitool, camera, whatever, ever purchased? Then the next day the next generation model comes out. They immediately run out and buy it. At that moment, they wouldn’t be caught dead with the worlds’ greatest item from a day earlier!
I’m in total agreement amount about the bigger is better mentality. Isn’t it interesting how the people who are “scaling down” to smaller lighter tools, are often the people who’ve actually used the large tools the longest?
Rich,
I heard somewhere about Nutnfancy’s credentials. I take that at face value. I’m not here to challenge the authenticity of his titles. That aside, I don’t think either of us could deny that he’s a collector. He couldn’t be as experienced with ALL of those items as he suggests. He’s got virtually every multitool and knife ever made! He wouldn’t have enough hours in his days to thoroughly test every item and still live out his professional obligations. To his credit, I believe that he has conceded that he’s a collector. That at least puts a notch on the positive side of my impression. At the end of the day though, I think that he loves his “celebrity status” and the sound of his own voice. I think that his primary motivation is any excuse to purchase another item or for someone to give it to him because of his “status.” He has a duty to inform the world, don’t ya know?
Here’s my non-professional impression. I think that collecting can actually be a sickness like gambling or any other addiction. Like any addict, they look for any manner of justifying that addiction. An alcoholic likes to hang out with alcoholics. They want to be around people who support them instead of condemning their addiction. If a collector can develop a following and make a case by their “need” to inform the world, that’s exactly what they do. The internet has created many a “closet celebrity” that way.
Robert
Stuart
I do agree with that – there’s nothing wrong with collecting, unless the collector behaves as if a larger collection reflects more experience. I’ve seen guys sporting Canon L lenses without knowing the focal length of their lenses, or even what focal length. And they were using Auto/green box mode as well!
And collecting as an addiction? I can definitely see that. I sometimes have a problem confusing “want” with “need” and usually have to forcibly remind myself to of the distinction. I’m getting better at it, but the internet doesn’t make it easy.
Robert
Well we’re all human. I think that everyone occasionally plays a tug of war between needs and desires. We all need to reprioritize from time to time. There’s a clear distinction however, between someone who makes an isolated purchase of something they don’t need, as opposed to someone with real issues that border on or directly point them to professional intervention.
When I look over my life, I can recall many of these people. They’re usually just filling a void. I knew a guy who purchased a $2500.00 guitar for example, who couldn’t play 3 chords. If the truth be known, his true motivation was to outshine the lesser guitar of a guy who played much better. The truth which they seldom admit to, is that they’re envious of the other person. It’s either that, or their own insecurities. To compensate, they research everything and try to outtalk them on the topic. They can’t make their point where the rubber meets the road. Now is there anything wrong with purchasing an expensive guitar if you’re a new player? Not necessarily. I think however that we understand the distinction.
Let’s be real. I may not be an officer in the US military. On the other hand, I don’t need someone to tell me what kind of multitool that is suited for me. My eyes work just fine. I can pick it up and determine if it’s useful to me or not. I don’t need a self-proclaimed expert to tell me that.
As far as the “green zone” is concerned, I could go for hours on that topic. That wouldn’t be fair however, to the intended purpose of this forum. I’ll tell you this however. Not that long ago when film ruled, I had 2 Hasselblad cameras. I don’t know if you’re familiar with those. At any rate, they were about as “professional” as it got. What was interesting about them is that they did absolutely nothing for you. They were totally and completely manual. You set the aperture, you set the shutter speed, you focused the lens, you cranked the film and cocked the shutter, etc. Even the flash was manual. It was just a parabolic reflector with a power pack. You just knew that from a certain estimated distance at a particular power setting, you’re aperture was F?? Now if you handed that equipment to the average “professional photographer” these days, most wouldn’t have clue what to do with it. If it doesn’t have an auto “go” button, they look at it like it’s from Mars. They are however, “professionals,” or so they think.
Robert
Stuart
I completely agree with this, and try to avoid speaking with such a voice when reviewing tools. Everyone has their unique needs and wants, and there’s no way to anticipate which tools will suit a particular user.
ToolGuyd exists to provide information. Not everyone is able to try out a multi-tool or other type of tool in person. My intent is not to tell people what they do or do not need, but to help better inform them to make their own decisions. Sometimes it is worthwhile to share personal input and experiences in addition to a more objective analysis.
One thing I have found about self-proclaimed experts is that they’re never as experienced or helpful as they think they are. I see this on forums all the time – one person asks about putting together a starter tool set for personal use, and some joker will talk about their decades of experience and how they recommend a particular top-tier brand (e.g. Snap-on) and nothing less. It seems that these people only care about advancing their own image rather than providing useful information or answering questions.
Rich S.
Robert, regarding the comment that you don’t need a self-proclaimed expert to tell you what you need: That’s too broad of a dismissal of what semi-professional/hobbyist reviewers like nutnfancy (and Stuart) do.
I don’t always have time to do exhaustive research on every tool I might need. For example, last year, I wanted a reliably sharp, easy to deploy, light, inexpensive folding/locking knife for a series of house renovations where I was going to be cutting up a lot of carpet and doing a lot of handyman work. Searching the knife forums was mostly useless, because the expert advice was often “Buy the XYZ ($125)…it’s great!” Exactly what you’d expect from knife enthusiasts. They care about what gives them pride of ownership, not cheap utility value.
I went to nutnfancy’s site, looked at the list of knife reviews, and ended up watching his review of the Buck Bantam series. I ended up with a very light, very sharp, made-in-the-USA knife for $15. It was everything he said it was. I cut hundreds of feet of carpet with it. Stripped wire for countless elecrtical connections. Shaved wood. Cut drywall. Scraped wax residue off toilet flanges. Abused the hell out of it in all kinds of ways. When I was done with the renovations, I made a mental note to carry it while hunting because it was that good.
The point is: Some reviewers have a good perspective that their needs are not representative of all needs. Most knife guys wouldn’t recommend a $15 knife, simply because of the price. Nutnfancy did it without hesitation, because he saw the value. He was right on the money and steered me, in that particular case, perfectly. Whatever his motivation , it’s very hard for me to disparage that kind of helpful advice, which I pay nothing for and is available for my use if I choose to use it.
Robert
Hey guys, I think I struck a chord that was unintentional. I apologize and certainly didn’t mean to alienate anyone. This seems like a nice thread with good folks, and my desire isn’t to be blacklisted. I’d hate to turn destroy a good interaction with one fatal paragraph.
Let me clarity this. First of all, I’m not insinuating that everyone who gives advice on internet forums is a “self-proclaimed expert.” There’s nothing wrong with providing a personal review, tips, suggestions, or whatever. In addition, NOBODY in this forum strikes me as that type of person. In fact, I wouldn’t have spent the time opening up if I had felt otherwise.
I’ll tell you one thing Rich. It seems like there’s no middle ground when it comes to Nutnfancy. He’s either liked or disliked. Few who’ve seen him are undecided. I respect your opinion about him providing a viable resource. Hey, even an individual who fits the “profile” can still provide some resources. For example, I occasionally walk blindly into a purchase without knowing what items are even available. I’ve sometimes found information on sites that I’m not otherwise thrilled with. Even if it’s nothing more than side by side photographs, I can sometimes obtain the information to make a more informed decision. I think we all understand the difference and the type of person I’m profiling. I also think I’ve sufficiently beaten this horse. I’ve enjoyed this interaction, and I don’t want to wear out my welcome.
Incidentally Rich, I sincerely appreciate how bummed you are for losing your original Leatherman. I was surprised when I looked on Ebay recently. Some of the discontinued Leatherman tools are going for premium prices. I was also surprised at the number of people who still prefer the original Super Tool to anything they currently make. You may have lost a future collector’s item. As absent minded as I tend to be, I’m amazed that I’ve hung on to my original Super Tool for all these years.
Robert
Rich S.
Robert, we’re just sharing perspectives. I’m giving you counterpoints, not because I take what you say personally, but because I think it’s a worthwhile exchange of ideas and info.
I don’t care about the monetary aspect of losing my original Leatherman. My wife gave it to me shortly after we bought our first home together. It’s saved the day many times over a course of nearly two decades. As such, it carries a lot of sentimental value. As I mentioned, I was planning to retire it when the Wingman/Sidekick came out. Just sad that I won’t be able to lay it aside and pass it down to my son someday. I usually take good care of my stuff and rarely loose tools. Just a lapse (maybe age creeping up?) and will have to cope with it.
Stuart
Don’t worry, you didn’t strike a chord with me at all; I just thought it would be worthwhile to share my perspective since I/ToolGuyd could loosely fit into the same tool reviewer category of the type you were discussing. And rest assured that you are at absolutely no risk at being banned, blocked, or blacklisted.
Martyfarkle
Leatherman has amazing tools of high quality and high usefulness. As with knives, it makes a big difference in the quality of steel used. Most of our cookie cutter knives are not worth re-sharpening and should be put into the ‘throw-away’ category, which more and more things are labeled. You will obviously pay more for a knife or tool that is made of superior material, but it is worth it, and it will give you a life time of valuable use.
Thanks for the outlook on these two new tools coming out. Gotta git one!
Rich S.
So, the Wingman and Sidekick delivery have been pushed out a month. Argh! Waiting anxiously.
Brad L'lee
I want one with all the same tools – same size – except power tools. Oscillating tool with several cutting blades (and sanding attachment), impact driver with several bits, a chopsaw, – maybe even a laser level, distance finder, and theodolite so you could lay out a jobsite and shoot grade with your multi-tool. They could power it with carbon nano fibers some way -absorbing EMFs from the atmosphere. Would be cool if they included the Carabiner with the bottle opener for no extra charge.
Brad