TX Tool Crib no, thank you. Seriously. Watching people who obviously have no idea what they’re talking about just to see what a particular tool looks like is painful. Great reviews man. You hit all the points only somebody that actually works with tools can hit. You saved me 120+ bucks on having to get one of these myself.
Jim Bonney Well you’re quite welcome. Comments such as yours give me incentive to devote more of my spare time to helping people reach informed decisions. I, much like yourself, have become quite disillusioned with numerous reviews from people that are reviewing things outside of their scope of knowledge. It is actually the reason I began this little channel. I’m glad you were able to save some of your hard earned cash. Once again, thank you.
Who ever heard of someone actually using the tool, and pointing out the negatives? Not blindly praising the hyped aspects, but instead explaining what the real deal is. That is why I subscribed, and unlike the Free tools, you do not disappoint. Keep up the great reviews, and I can only hope your honest channel grows to rival those of the sycophants, shills, and fanboys.
Thank you very much for your subscription. Your support means a great deal as well. Hopefully my little channel can one day grow into something special. I have found that I really enjoy passing on knowledge to other people. I have plans to add how-to videos in the future that will cover everything from simple DIY projects to full on construction projects as well as covering the tools to do such projects. Thanks again for watching, and for your support.
You could join forum.multitool.org if you haven't already. Lots of information and people who appreciate honest reviews, who would increase your audience.
I mean theres plenty of videos out there that do this lol. Everyone has their tools for their own specific purposes, and find flaws and positives based on their uses.
And how ironic that he didnt even use them before doing this video lmaoo. Just theorizing. Funny to look back at these old videos and remember when people thought the magnets were going to be a problem. Turned out that was a complete myth. I've had my P2 for over 2 years now and after grinding literal tons of metal, have had absolutely no issues with the magnets. I have really tough hands so I never felt any hot spots either. I was just looking for videos comparing the 2 side by side because I was considering getting the P4 and wasnt sure how much bigger it was. Guess Ill just get the P4 and sell it if it isnt what I want.
I called Leatherman to order the pocket clip for the P4 and they told me that they would send me one for free. Looks like they came to agreement that they should have included with the unit. They told me that they were planning on sending clips to all who purchased the P4 through Leatherman. Call them if you have questions.
@@profd65 He said critical, not negative. Most people who reviewed the Free series did so from a superficial perspective and not practical. TX Tool Crib takes a more practical approach and isn't as impressed by flashiness as most UA-cam tool reviewers. After hearing their glowing reviews while completely ignoring the negative aspects of the tool, it's refreshing to hear an honest take from someone who actually USES tools instead of merely collecting them.
I know some guys fuss about the little ruler, but I love little details like that--I measure brake and tire wear on commercial aircraft and would use this all the time. Also handy for taking notes on dents and minor damage that need to be documented.
You make a good point, I could absolutely see how it could be useful in that application. I guess I shouldn't complain. It is just laser etched into the tool, so if they can, why not right? It just a little bonus tool. I actually prefer the frame stamped ruler for my applications though.
I was waiting for your video to take a look on the new leatherman tools. Your reviews are the best on youtube. My impression is that the new "free" line is too fancy. I prefer the good old surge, with real tools for real life, as leatherman used to say.
Thank you Miguel, that is a helluva compliment. I tend to agree with you. I feel like the new FREE series are basically fidget tools for grown men. They do have some pretty cool engineering, but on the whole they just don't work for me. Leatherman can do better.
It's like they included toy versions of some of the tools on the Surge and Wave, like how they went from an 8 inch ruler to a 1.4 inch ruler, or from a pretty large file to one that's barely a nail file.
Good review. I’m sticking with my Wave as it has proven itself over the years for me. In fact, I plan to buy a new Wave as mine is pretty old and doesn’t have the replaceable cutters. Thanks.
Great videos. Makes me wish I hadn’t dropped my modified Free P2 to the bottom of Santa Cruz lake while fishing last month (modded with a custom bit exchanger that accepted Leatherman bit sets AND 1/4” hex bits at a 90* angle) I wanted to mention to you because i’m not sure if you noticed; but the floating tool spacers also flex and act as mini leaf springs to provide tension to the locking bar. As for my 2 cents, I had my P2 for 8 months, and as a medium duty/urban/EDC it worked perfectly for me and my daily uses. Sure I could nitpick about wishing the blade was straight edge instead of a combo straight/serrated or wishing it came in S30V or with a bit exchanger. But I either modified it or adapted how I use it like keeping the magnets clean, smoothing any hot spots, etc. Since you can already customize designs on your Leatherman, I think the next evolution for the company will be offering modular tools that can have tools easily swapped out or allow us to choose a frame style and arrange each specific tool we want to be fitted from the factory. It’s the best solution in my mind to satisfy the most people especially when their tools are averaging around $120. That’s a lot to not get exactly what you want. Anyway keep up the good work and if you have any suggestions to help me replace my Free P2 like knowing someone who may be selling or would barter, I’m willing to consider ANY model or brand of multi tool if it’s good quality and a good deal. Thank you
Thank you. I know what you mean. I was pretty excited about these new tools when I first saw them as well. I thought initially that the magnets were going to be an issue, but I wanted to keep an open mind. After encountering some of the other issues, I must say I was more than disappointed. If they were half the price I would be okay with the new designs. The high cost of these multi tools and their lack of functionality clearly sets them in the no go category for me though. Thanks for you comment, and thanks for watching.
I still can't get with them. They just feel flimsy to me. I can see where people find them useful for lighter tasks though. The fast deploy tools are kind of what sets it apart.
Also, those spacers between the outer tools and the inner tools are the springs for the tool lock. Press and release the lock for the tools and you’ll see them flexing.
Genesis You are absolutely right. I knew that, but I forgot to mention it in the video. I don’t go off of a script when doing the few videos I have done, it is sort of off the cuff. Seems I always forget something. Maybe I should be using a script in future videos. That’s a good eye btw, nice catch.
TX Tool Crib Update on the Free P4: I’ve found that the plier head will occasionally bind up after cutting wire to the point where opening the pliers will require more force than is necessary to fold the tool. That’s kinda bothersome. Although it will go back to normal after working it back and forth for a bit.
I’m new to the world of multi-tools and heard the free was coming out, once I saw they didn’t have exchangeable bits. I went with the wave. Great video.
Great review! I have a charge tti and wanted an upgrade. For my daily use this doesn't seem like an upgrade. It's still a beautiful tool don't get me wrong, but a tool is not meant to look beautiful. It needs to be useful and practical. The bit kit is a must for me and I use the eyeglass screwdriver for many other uses. Thanks for the great review I'll stick with my charge
I have been waiting to get my hands on one of these here in Australia. I haven't seen one out yet, so your review is timely for me. It was also a nice clear presentation. Your comment about the magnets is exactly what I thought also when I first saw these tools presented. Like you, I have a collection of Leatherman's, and I use them all mostly in a fabrication environment. I also do electronics work. A magnet is bad for cleaning, and can be bad in electronics, so I'm not a fan of that part of their design. Here the P4 is $340 and the P2 is $290, so not real cheap (exchange is about 1.7 AUD = 1 USD). I haven't done the maths to compare to the prices you said. That's my 20 cents. Thanks for your review.
Darren of Photos I estimate your prices in Australia to be about 40 percent higher than the US when adjusting for the exchange rate. I would assume, but can’t be certain that the prices are reflective of the extra cost of shipping. Seems a bit much, but then I have never had the occasion to ship anything to Australia. I think these two multi tools will find their place among the younger crowds who are not blue collar workers. I think the fact that they are one handed operable has disillusioned quite a few people to the fact that the tool sets are a bit of a step backwards. I guess time will tell. I have noticed that some of the people that had posted early videos and were singing the praises of these new multi tools are starting to take a step back though. I just hope that Leatherman does not see this magnetic architecture as the future of multi tools and try to incorporate the design into existing and future models. Thanks for your comment and for taking the time to watch my rather lengthy video.
First day of hard use on my new P2. You hit it right on the head with how the handles dig into your hands. As well as the lock release has some very sharp feeling edges. Hate the combo edge blade. Hate the tiny file and not having the diamond coating. The wire stripper is a total joke. I love the one handed operations. I do commercial HVAC and use my Leatherman all day long. I was really excited about Leatherman’s second attempt at a one handed multi tool (first being the OHT obviously) I’ll give it some more time, but so far I’m on the fence. Great video! Thanks.
Thanks for comments. I would imagine that in HVAC work you are constantly around metal shards and shaving. Maybe you could get back with us to let us know if the magnets in the P2 pick up a lot of trash, and if so how long. It would be interesting to see how these tools perform in different industries.
I work at a hardware store right now and I have to say the Wave is by far the most useful one-does-it-all tool (customers come in with all kinds of problems; bit exchanger for hex or Robertson for furniture or license plate installs, diamond sharpener to keep our water hose cutter going, serrated blade for cutting rope, large flat head for prying open cans of paint, tiny scissors to open skillfully and then reseal packages, wood & metal sharpener to smooth edges on poorly finished products, real long ruler to see if it's a metric or sae bolt and its length, heavy wire cutters for small chain and wire jewellery screwdriver for battery compartment on watches and scales AND big curvy can opener for lunch 🤓), so unfortunately I'm disappointed that in the last few years from leatherman there has been the Signal (too much plastic IMO) the juice cs3 (half juice just to get the famous s2 scissors) and now the free (urban edc folks who don't actually use the tool daily or even monthly will love it) is very disheartening 😔
Food for thought: So, I spoke to Leatherman today and they stated that all future orders of the P4 will be sent out with the pocket clip. Also, I uploaded a new video of my P2 after a few days of hard use. My unboxing video was swayed due to anticipation and excitement. (Oops)
Your video is very informative. I collect the multi tools, for fun and conversational purposes. I have the Leatherman surge, and Gerber truss, my favorites, especially the Gerber Truss as it's loaded with plenty of tools, but the Gerber truss is for display purposes only, the tolerances are so close and the frame so weak, that it would get bent out of shape quite easily. Leatherman surge is the one I would rely on if I had to, I have many other varieties such as Grandway Swiss Army products, all of them junk, that is unless you consider, that's some of them are really interesting and make good conversational pieces when passed around to friends, just before bringing out the quality pieces. Conclusion, Leatherman surge is the only practical one on the market today. You confirm my position, which is no to magnets, and lack of tool options such as a real metal file and exchangeable saw as well as the exchangeable bits as is the case with the leatherman surge. Of course I will still buy the P2 and P4, because I collect these things and it's always good conversation around the coffee table. Thanks very much, for your information.
A very descriptive and detailed professional review, I am about to review surge and wave plus. I always carry wave plus since it's not as heavy as surge, but by far Surge is beast of all multi tools on my viewpoint and I believe you will agree with me too. Keep the good work as you gave me enough details on free series (e.g. locking mechanism "Elastomer spring") and many more technical specs that I know how fidgety the tool really is. Keep up the good work.
Good review. I’ve had mine for a week. I think your opinion is going to be based on your trade. I’m an exterminator by trade and I use mine to hang fly lights while on ladders, set traps and adjust my sprayers among other things out in the field. They are best multi tool I’ve ever owned. The weight is right and the tools are easy to deploy. I’ve owned a Surge and it was too heavy and clunky for my use. There is a multi tool to fit every trade out there. Don’t discard it over someone else’s opinion. Test it out. You might like it... or not.
You're right about looking at things from your own point of view. I try to keep my opinions as open as possible, but it is hard not to evaluate multi tools, and tools in general, from your own trade and perspective. Of course, watching reviews on UA-cam for years myself, I always felt like there was a lack of reviewers that actually do work in the trades giving the reviews. I wish I had more time to do it, because I enjoy passing along my knowledge and experience with others who are willing to hear my opinions on what I think are the most quality products. I try to tell people that what works for me, may not work for you. People have seemed fairly receptive to hearing what I have to say so far, for the most part. Thank you for your compliment and for taking the time to comment.
I’m looking at getting a multi tool for work I’ve always been a knife guy but these videos are so informative and answer every question I have. Great job brother!
so the P2 is a wingman and the P4 is a Swisstool, but with mustard on them. Got it! 100% agree with the magnet concerns. I carry an inspection screwdriver with a magnet on the handle for operating flow meters (internal magnet switches) in my breast pocket and I'll tell you right now that thing is constantly picking up metal debris from all the work we do with iron pipe and crusty old fire hydrants. I can't imagine a magnet in the inner workings of a multitool being a good idea, at least for us industrial types. I'm sure there are many environments out there for it, but certainly worth hanging a light on this one.
My P4 came with a scale that says “P2”. . . I wish the file got rid of the single cut side in favor of a diamond side. Or that they put a diamond file on the other side of the ruler tool. The philips/bottle opener and flathead/package opener/pry tool are better than I thought they’d be. . . I thought they’d be lifted from the Sidekick/Wingman. Ruler should’ve been along the frame like the Surge. Would’ve been nice to have some gimping on the spine of the serrated blade like nearly EVERY other Leatherman. They COULD give FREE access to the Bit Kit by making an attachment with a quarter inch socket that would slide over both of the drivers (when they are opened together). Also, GIMME a pocket clip, dammit.
Genesis I have heard of a couple of other people getting the P4 with P2 stamping as well. Leatherman really needs to step up their quality control. I agree with the stamping on the frame for the ruler. I was curious why they didn’t add the gimping to the serrated blade spine as well. You have some excellent points.
TX Tool Crib Leatherman has ignored me on Twitter when I have tried telling them about the messed-up scale. I was super surprised when I saw it. Not something I expected from them. I made sure to mention it in my review on their website. I have a pretty large collection of pretty much every model they have ever released with the only exceptions being E.O.D. Tools. The Juice Pro (I have 6 of them) and Surge are probably my favorite tools, and I carry them pretty much every day.
Thanks for the lengthy introductory review (in the last week there have been 2 dozen really long videos on the free series, but unfortunately no one seems to have actually used the tool, too scared to due to price or still in the ooh, aww stage - I don’t know). You had lots of great points (hot spot just like on Rebar, way too much flex like on cheap multitools that can cause plier heads to separate (try pulling a nail with a leatherman compared to a swisstool - night and day), spot where magnets are is where wood shavings in addition to metal filings will gather, no bit exchanger which means no Robertson or square bits or any other hex, torx, or special bits and the plier head area seems too small relative to the size of the gerber mp600 blunt nose or Surge, ... Thank you very much for taking one for the team as I think I and many others who can’t justify the price are grateful for yours and many other youtubers detailed use of the tool over the longer term 👏
You're quite welcome. I think you hit the nail on the head when you said the "oooh, aaaah stage". Sometimes people don't want to admit they made a bad purchase and try to justify it. Others, I get the impression that they don't actually use their multi tools sometimes. Rather, they have them as collector pieces or just because of the "cool" factor. At any rate, thanks for your comments, and thanks for watching.
Informative review; I purchased the P4 b/c of the 1 handed operation of all tools including closing. I ordered the LM driver b/c it should fit over the Phillips tool and store in extra pockets of the LM holder. If and when the magnets draw too much carbon I’ll return it for refurb under the 25 year warranty. In short, this is the tool for me.
This is absolutely the best review I have seen so far about the Leatherman free P4. I pretty much watched all the reviews in UA-cam because I wasn’t sure if I want to get the Charge or this new Free P4. After watching this I think I’ll just go ahead and purchase the charge. I just subbed to ur channel, thank you for this awesome review.
sean bradshaw I am personally a big fan of Leatherman tools, but I couldn’t in good conscience rave about these multi tools as the next best thing when I don’t believe that. I believe in speaking the truth at all times, even when it isn’t in your own best interest. In Texas, we call that integrity. Thanks for watching.
great review, i personally am a leatherman surge guy myself. i have the leatherman skeletool cx that i carry out side of work but personally the surge, wave and the OHT are the only ones leatherman made for heavy duty work. yes their are others like the Mut, signal, and super tool 300 OED. but they have specialty tools that favor the military. all the others are just your light duty multi tools. but that's just my opinion you're a much better reviewer than i am.
Matt Wilson I think you are correct, with one exception. The SuperTool 300 is quite robust and capable in heavy duty use applications. Medium duty tools definitely have their place though. I like all styles and size categories , so long as they are useful. Some of my favorites from Leatherman that don’t get much attention are the Raptors and the Crunch. As far as being a great reviewer, I appreciate the compliment, but I often forget one or two points that I wanted to talk about. Hopefully with practice I will get better. I just want to help people make an informed decision about what tools work for them, and which don’t.
Yes, I agree with the topic of the video because it's the first generation of that kind of new multitool so, can be so many kind of negative things. Better wait for the consumer reports and maybe with that feedback they will improve their tools.
Great video. Extremely informative and you’re right, very similar conclusions. I’ve been going out of my way to hard use my P2 for the last 5 days or so and it’s just not good. You couldn’t be more right, when I hear diwn in the pliers it’s frankly painful. I also learned a lot from your video that I didn’t know when I opened my tool for the first time. Thanks for a great video!
Personally, I think that is a good choice. Although to some people the ease of access is valuable. I was talking to a vet not long ago who lost a limb, for him these new tools were game changers. In that scenario it would be totally understandable.
I've heard a number of reviews all say they wish the bit kit from the Wave+ had carried over. I feel that if the Free had this, and the package opener off the Wingman, it would be a far more ideal took. I would be okay without the various tools that "include" screwdrivers, as well as can opener, the ruler, and the awl, in order to gain these tools. Really appreciate your detailed look at the Free, and your insight.
Good video--I like your critical review of the tool. You don't sugarcoat it, at all! but I don't agree with you of how it's "a step back for Leatherman." It all depends on the end use of the tool. In my use, a Leatherman is a convenient option when I need to do something, fast. A Leatherman, generally speaking, is "jack of all trades, master of none." Heavy duty all day jobs = heavy duty, specialized tools Medium duty one-off tasks = Leatherman
feedback for Leatherman: When the pliers are activated, there needs to be a locking feature (heavyduty) that prevent the handles from closing partiallyy or fully. Also please make P4 lighter than the Wave? thx
I might still buy this tool strictly for fishing - three main tools are pliers, scissors and knife for this activity and being able to stream line them into a tool that has the scissors outside accessible with one hand seems great. Other than that, I'll probably use this as a fidget toy at my desk. Will probably stick with skeletool for EDC and surge in my tool bag though.
Jayjayhooks Outside of an industrial setting, it should be fine. Because of this multi tool size, I feel it should be on the high end of the medium duty multi tools. Hopefully it will work out for you.
*I'm sending my " free p4" back to them. It does not operate as smooth or as easy as they claimed it would. The pliers aren't spring assisted. It weighs alot. I'm happier with my older broken in leatherman. I don't feel like this was worth the $139 I spent.*
Great review, thanks! 👍...When it comes to the new sheath 1:30 the P2 fit better when you clip it on to the sheath, leaving the pocket clip on the outside, that way it won't be so bulky and the cover flap can be snapped in place without any issue, but why have the pocket clip on the tool if you're using a sheath?🙄 ... Anyhow, the P4 suppose to be in the sheath with the lanyard ring facing up so it can be easily pull out by grabbing the lanyard, but like you mentioned in your video, if you don't use lanyards might as well get rid of it, that way you'll be able to one hand open the outside accessible tools.
You're absolutely right about the P2 fitting much better when you clip it onto the front of the sheath. The thing I don't like about the lanyard placement on these two tools is that they are on the plier side of the multi tool instead of the bottom. It seems to me that if you did decide to use a lanyard it would be in the way whenever you were using the pliers. I should have touched on that in the video, seems like I always forget something.
@@txtoolcrib Drilling same diameter holes on the bottom side to relocate the pocket clip or lanyard ring will work, but not enough room, they will interfere with the blades opening and small tools locking tabs, that's the reason why they are on the pliers side. You can always use a lanyard with detachable lobster clip clamp though🙄
Your multitool reviews are simply the best by far. Your attention to detail is outstanding. I would like to see some demonstrations especially with comparisons. Thank you for making these videos 👍
Thank you very much, I appreciate that. I do plan to get some comparisons out soon, in which I will really be putting different models head to head and testing out their capabilities on video.
Liam Sellick Thank you. It was disappointing for me to be so critical of the new FREE series, because I am a big Leatherman fan. It will be interesting to see how it does in the marketplace in the coming months.
TX Tool Crib across the Facebook groups mixed reviews the Leatherman fans are left let down massively I was misled by the blades show reviews of the free by the Leatherman staff I didn’t actually think they were bugging it up I thought it was going to be like any other that feels solid in your hands 👍
I like the Free P2 because the P4 just have too many knives; excluding other things. Honestly, I find I rarely need a knife... I often enough need a package-opener, but a straight edge is not the best for that. I certainly don't need a straight blade, a serrated blade, a saw and a package-opener in one mulittool. It just limites what else there could be in one. And the more, the heavier. I love the Surge, but the main fault I have with it is how heavy it is. I carry the supertool 300 (though it lacks scissors), but the wave+ or Rebar is the best balance for "comfy-bility" of everyday carry.
TX Tool Crib but you have a really good reason to be biased. It’s a beast! I’ m a welder too and i’m hard on my tools. I use it every single day and it take it like it’s nothing!
Hi, it seems that you acquired your Free Series right after their release. Does your P2/P4 comes with the production date stamp? Mine doesn’t have any stamp so I want to confirm it to others. They said early released doesn’t have manufacturing date. Do you know anything about it. TIA
Thanks for doing this. It was helpful to see the comparison between the two models and your thoughts on the design. Good balance of pros and cons, and really liked the diagrams u made to explain the design. It certainly shed some light on aiding my decision process on whether to buy it. For me personally, the only thing i value here is the one handed operation. Not that thats anything small; it's certainly a great design and feat of engineering. But weighing that against lack of modularity (no interchangeable bits or saw/file that you can find on the Surge or MP600) is what holds me back here. Will be interesting to see what the aftermarket world will come up with with the Free line. If this could have those 2 previous aforementioned modular tools, i may be interested...as long as they throw in that free pocket clip. Come on now! But anyways, solid overview. Looking forward to seeing u getting some jobs done with the Free. Should be fun to work with.
Thanks for you comment. I really don't like the fact that they excluded the bit exchanger on the new models either. They really took away from the capabilities of this design in my opinion. It is amazing to me that they didn't provide a pocket clip with the P4 for the price they are asking. It doesn't effect me personally, because I don't use pocket clips on larger tools, but I know a great many that do. Thanks for watching.
@@txtoolcrib yeah, or at least offer it for free with proof of purchase for P4 owners (considering the P2 comes with it and is cheaper). I think what's achieved here with the Free line is a new foundation for design. Hope Leatherman continues to run with it and make improvements.
i just dont get it '' OUR BEST MULTITOOL IN 25 YEARS " then put all the cheap useless tools in there that they can find and exclude all the good ones. how is not 1 clown at leatherman saying hey, maybe 5 flat heads and basicly nothing else is stupid ? that beeing said. very good review!
I remember thinking almost the same thing when I saw the initial release videos from SHOT Show. Most of the videos were moving pretty fast though and I couldn't get a very good look at the tools or the overall design. I gave the new FREE series the benefit of the doubt, but ultimately they came up short of what I expect from a well built multi tool.
These multi-tools are great for having around when you don't have access to a toolbox with real tools, so I wonder if spending 140 bucks on these are worth the money or if a 20 bucks one can get you out of trouble quickly as well. I feel that these multi-tools, whatever the brand will never replace proper tools. You can buy many quality sturdy tools for a price of a Leatherman. Just my thought. Great review though, very engaging and thorough
You're not wrong, the difference is that it is unlikely that you would be carrying all of those tools on you when you really need them. That is benefit to a multi tool. I own literally well over $100,000 in tools, and I still carry a multi tool everyday.
Another thing I’ve been saying for years (and I’ve started seeing lots of other guys saying it), a BUILD YOUR OWN TOOL APP! They need to develop three frames/plier head sizes. Small med and large. Then you would just have a list of tools to choose from. They would literally put every other tool manufacturer out of business. Naysayers always go “yeah right, do you know how hard that would be, you really think the tools are cross compatible?” Uh, yeah! That’s why I was able to sit down at my kitchen table and retrofit my rebar with a bit driver, a pocket clip, and a clamshell opener off of a wingman (or sidekick? Idk). The parts were basically drop in. I had to spend maybe 15 minutes with the dremel on the package opener to get it to interface with the rebars lock, but that’s it. Turned the unassuming little rebar into one of my go to tools
There is not to my knowledge. I think a lot of people would enjoy seeing a video of your modifications. If you are so inclined, you may email me at txtoolcrib@gmail.com.
Lanyard ring catching at Free P4: why don't you turn it to the inside? There's no rim to catch on. I'm not fond of that magnet. Maybe ok for EDC, but in the outdoors, being a strong neodym magnet, you have to be aware that it will affect any compass over a quite significant distance, so you can easily be mislead.
Hated those screw drivers. Most of the time jumps out of the screw which means you'll be needing quite a force to even turn them a bit. Worst if they don't have a lock.
Great review ! Does your P4 have some play/wiggle when its closed? Mine does when its closed and opened . My surge has none and is rock solid as anything.
It does have some play. The little tabs that they press into the frame do a decent job of keeping the handles together, but it is evident that there is some movement there. The reason that the surge doesn’t have that kind of movement is because of the way the handle is stamped. It has multiple breaks and bends that really strengthens the handles considerably.
I really dislike a serrated blade as my main blade. I will never buy a multitool with such a blade. Overall I think I would pick the 4 over the 2. And, I don't understand why the made the saw like that on the 4.weirs tip. Takes of some Lenght for sawing. Think I'll stick with my wave+. Hoping one day to own a surge.
Thank you. I think the FREE series will be just fine if it isn't used in heavy duty applications. My opinions are most biased towards heavy application use though, because that is what I do. What works for me, may not work for you, and visa versa. Thanks for watching.
Do you think that there could be a way for this to be a one-handed accessible tool without the magnets but with another "retainment mechanism" for the external tools?
That is a very good question. I have tried to give that very ideas some thought, but I haven’t come up with a solution that I think would be viable yet. I understand why they chose to go magnetic in order to accomplish that one-handed accessibility. I think it’s actually possible to accomplish the same thing without using magnets but I don’t have the solution quite yet. Do you have any ideas on how they might accomplish that?
Я смотрю несколько видео на русском языке. Иногда бывает трудно успевать за тем, что они говорят, но я стараюсь. Я хотел бы говорить на вашем языке. Я хочу поблагодарить вас за просмотр моих видео, я знаю, как трудно понять язык, о котором вы не знаете Благодаря возможностям Интернета мы можем, по крайней мере, сделать попытку общения.
@@txtoolcrib огромнейшее, огромнейшее Вам спасибо за понимание, за коммуникацию, и за прекрасные, техничные, конструктивные, подробные, своевременные обзоры!!!
Добро пожаловать, мой новый друг. Я надеюсь, что мои видео продолжают быть информативными для вас и заработать вашу подписку. Я пытался найти способ добавить субтитры в мои видео для людей, которые не говорят по-английски. Я новичок в этом, поэтому я не знаю, как лучше поступить. Если есть предложения, буду признателен.
@@txtoolcrib The lock buttons on the Surge feel more flimsy than on the Wave and the ergonomics aren't as good. I can flip my Wave open in exactly the same way that you do with the Free P2/P4.
PointyFox You may very well be right. I think it comes down to how a multi tool feels in your hand. Because I have fairly large hands, I find that the Surge is a better fit for me personally.
The more I use my p4, I realize that is a gorgeous beautiful nice looking multitool over functionality😅, it will never beat my surge, surge is a beast/monster functional multitool, I torture my surge every day at work, I tried to do the same with my p4, and is so nice and delicate that I feel guilty 😅
t1 Thank you. I spent about 6 months in a boiler factory when I was younger. You’re absolutely right, a magnetic tool wouldn’t fair very well in that environment.
@@txtoolcrib Thanks for your reply. I wish it has a metal/plastic stealth with carbide glass breaker like the Leatherman Raptor, then it would be the perfect multi-tool for the urbanite. The reason of including the carbide glass breaker is that for the past one month or two, my UA-cam recommended videos of people stuck inside their cars and people outside trying to break their car windows with anything on their hands but a carbide glass breaker to get to them to render medical help, and that is what makes me think of having a tool to break the car windows.
Thanks for the review. You brought up a lot of good points that give me pause for buying one of these. However, I find it ridiculous that you are not willing to test out your theory about the magnets collecting so much more material. You are a tool reviewer, that is your chosen job. If you are not willing to put it through its paces in real life situations, then who is supposed to do it?
First of all, thank you and thanks for watching. I wouldn't say that I am a "professional reviewer". I own my own business and go very long stretches without much free time. So, reviewing in not my profession. I do take your point though. I haven't totally discounted the possibility of testing these models out further. Unfortunately it will not be this week, because I am flying home to see my wife and kids for a week. That being said, it is not a theory. It is a certainty that those magnets will eventually fill up with metallic debris. How long depends on the type of use that the multi tool will see. I for example, will likely have to clean the multi tool within a week under normal working conditions on the job site. The average user might go a couple of months without having to clean it. It really depends on the user, like most things. I'm sure I wear out tires faster than you do, for example. That is probably because I drive close to 100,000 miles a year, and the average driver may drive 15,000. I would have to make quite a bit money to turn into a professional tool reviewer and give up the living I make now. I just do this to try to help inform people about the subjects that I know. I have watched a lot of reviews on items that I have looked to purchase in the past, well beyond the realm of multi tools. I always felt that the vast majority of people that review products lacked a certain knowledge of how the products worked or what their true capabilities were. So I decided to start making a few videos about some of the things I know about in an effort to help people make better informed decisions on different products. I only do them in my spare time right now. Someday, my little channel may grow into something special. But for the time being I have a limited amount of time that I can devote to doing these videos. I have had some pretty positive responses from people, and that is incentive to devote more of my time to build my channel. I am sorry if my response was long winded, and once again, thank you for watching.
Hi Ben, this is a very good talk about the free P indeed. Thank you for your sharing. I have a "what if" question for you that I really want you to try imagine. What if Leatherman never produced the Surge line and the SuperTool line ever, what would be your #1 multitool of this brand?
That is a very good question. If the Surge and SuperTool line were not available, the larger SwissTool (original) would be my first choice. I like the larger size and capabilities of the larger multi tools. Surge SwissTool SuperTool 300 Charge+, Wave, SwissTool Spirit X (These all rank pretty close for me) Rebar Wingman Juice Series
You mentioned steel quality. What is the best grade steel quality from all of your's (or in general) multi-tools and knifes? I mean if I wanna buy top quality build steel, what models do you suggest?
Ask 5 different people, you’ll get 5 different answers. The 420HC that Leatherman uses on its blades is fine for a general use knife. I personally like like the 154CM blades on the Charge+ the best. Better edge retention without being overly difficult to sharpen. Leatherman Charge+ TTi comes with an S30V blade. Theoretically it is better. I just prefer a slightly softer blade. Another consideration, the harder the blades steel, the less forgiving it is to bending. Victorinox uses a bit softer blade steel than the 420HC. You’ll notice that their blades have a tendency to bend instead of break under loads or misuse. Personally, I think the 420HC is a good higher end budget steel. Lots of people will criticize just to have something to criticize. Really it all comes down to personal preference, and in my case that is 154CM.
I just got a skeletool off eBay for 35 bucks in excellent condition now I’m trying to decide on my second multi tool I’m torn between P-1,P2 or surge any recommendations?
depends what your looking for if you have a skeletool like you have now I'd go for the surge so that way you have your more pocket friendly compact multi tool and then you keep the surge as a more heavy duty use tool that acts more like a "compact tool kit" you can throw in a pack or keep in the glovebox of a car or anywhere else. Personally i'd not recommend any of the free series tools cause I see them as awful value for money for a few reasons as followed magnetically held in place tools just are an accident waiting to happen, the knifeblade is 420hc and at the asking price of the free series when the charge aluminum/titanium are on the market for 20$ more with a significantly better blade steel, the free series in my opinion lack a bit driver of any kind and have also poorly designed tools the 2d Phillip's screwdriver is a joke of a tool along with too many flathead screwdrivers (Seriously why in the hell did they have 4 flat head screwdrivers), the files a stubby and worthless length for any real use imo, and last but not least it just screams "Designed by an intern who doesn't use tools at all". Honestly my recommendation is a wave plus if you want a medium sized tool that's still capable.
One thing that annoys me are the people who don't understand the free p4 1. It's completely 100% usable with just 1 hand 2. It was a completely new design 3. I do wish it had a bit driver... I started out with a skeletool aswell Now I have a Crunch And Free P4 I work on cars and also do mold remediation where I spend alot of time in attic with fog heads that need adjusting and torn apart for cleaning So your career and life style may vary
I think I'll get the p2 to carry to my office job but anything outside of that and I'll stick to my Gerber mp600. Can't believe Leatherman finally fixed there two main problems (one handed opening and blade locks) but completely craps all over the tools😡. Maybe there will be a p3 and p5? Or something...
Wyatt C To be fair, the other tools are not really “bad”. I think we have all come to expect more from Leatherman, especially since we know that they have produced better tools for their multi tools. I do understand what you mean though.
It looks like they copied Victorinox on tools being accessible from the outside. The tools on the P4 are smaller than most tools. I still pick the surge and Victorinox over this tool. I love my swisstool spirit and surge. Looking to add another Victorinox to my collection but don’t know which one. Victorinox multi tools do not have the play you showed on your video.
Christopher Dewan Yes, you are correct sir. It was merely a thumbnail from a portion of the video. In my haste to publish the video I didn’t take the time to include the proper thumbnail. I apologize.
For the price of the P4 I would rather keep my Surge... You can get a Surge for about $100... Bit kit for around $20... Bit extender for $13... That's $133 for 64 tools... The trade-off is that the Surge is bigger and heavier...
JS Krawz A lot of people consider the extra heft of the Surge to be a disadvantage. I tend to see it as an advantage. The Surge is built to work, it feels like a tool. The Wave can also give you nearly the same tool set, and is $10 cheaper.
raoul octav I think you’re probably right. The only real way to know if they will work for you is to use them. You’re welcome btw. Thanks for watching.
I watched your two updates, before watching your main review. Very comprehensive review. Thank you. I will encounter sawdust more than metal filings, so I like the magnets, but like you said, to each his own. Here's why I think the Free is a big step forward. My first Leatherman was a Super Tool. I loved it at the time, but everything was inside and the tools were hard to pull out and even harder to put back. Leatherman has been slowly moving more tools to the outside and making them more accessible. The Free is the culmination of that trend. I agree that the Free has problems, but it's the start of a new direction in multitools that are convenient with one-handed operation. Leatherman will tweak the Free and make it better. Hopefully, they will one day marry the super-convenient Free with the beefy Surge to produce the perfect multitool.
I appreciate you taking the time to watch my videos. I think that if you are not exposed to metal shaving and filings on a regular basis, then the magnetic architecture might be fine. Of course I was very critical of that design coming from an industrial perspective. I think they could have accomplished the same thing with low friction catches instead of the magnets, maybe I’m wrong though. It does appear that they are trending differently for sure. Ease of use has been pushed to the forefront of design in the Free series tools. I must say that I am fairly disappointed with the tool selections though. Hopefully we will see more refined versions of this concept in future models. At any rate, thanks for watching and for your comments. I enjoy hearing others point of view, even when it differs from my own.
Ummmm....I would have liked to hae seen you demo the FREE P4 one-handed as it was designed....begs the question....Is it really a one-handed MLLTI?? \ Also from a practical standpoint....I think I'd prefer the OHT as the tools are all on the outside. Are there tools on the inside of the P4 you'd really need that are missing on the OHT? Shrug.
I think, I may be wrong about this, but I think the files are made out of country and assembled here in the US. I don't necessarily discount a product because it isn't manufactured in the USA. Some of the best tools I have ever used were made in Germany and Japan, as well as the US. The Swiss make some excellent knifes and multi tools as well. All that being said, I make it a point to buy American to support my country whenever possible.
@@txtoolcrib Agree fully. I always do my best to support my fellow Americans but there are many fine products coming from overseas. One has to look no further than the QSP Parrot to find an amazing value-for-money piece coming out of China.
Aska619 Thank you. I think that eventually the price will lower substantially on these models, but that is purely speculation on my part. For the prices they are asking, these multi tools seem more than lacking in my opinion.
@@txtoolcrib I mean I get what they are going for and I don't blame them for wanting to push forward. Yes I also understand that it isn't cheap to make them. But come on. I have the rebar, super tool 300 , the wave plus and the surge. And not once did I wish they were one handed opening. I loved them because I could count on them and they were bomb proof lol. Idk I just wanted more options I guess.
Aska619 I don’t disagree. One of the things I like most about the Surge is that when you open the pliers, it feels solid. I don’t get that same feeling with the FREE models at all.
I agree. While I do like some of the innovative engineering that went into this design, I think the Wave/Charge tools are still better. There are a couple of tools on the new Free models that I would personally like to see integrated into other models though. Thanks for your comments, and you're welcome.
Thanks for the in depth review, man. Now i know the surge and wave + are the only multi tools I'll ever need. Was planning on upgrading to the free. I'm an emt and i liked the idea of being able to use a multi tool with just one hand but after watching your review, i realized that getting the free series would actually be a downgrade
Damn, you’re the first multi tool reviewer I’ve seen who actually understands how a tool works. Great review, subscribed.
Thank you sir, and thank you for subscribing.
TX Tool Crib no, thank you. Seriously. Watching people who obviously have no idea what they’re talking about just to see what a particular tool looks like is painful. Great reviews man. You hit all the points only somebody that actually works with tools can hit. You saved me 120+ bucks on having to get one of these myself.
Jim Bonney Well you’re quite welcome. Comments such as yours give me incentive to devote more of my spare time to helping people reach informed decisions. I, much like yourself, have become quite disillusioned with numerous reviews from people that are reviewing things outside of their scope of knowledge. It is actually the reason I began this little channel. I’m glad you were able to save some of your hard earned cash. Once again, thank you.
Who ever heard of someone actually using the tool, and pointing out the negatives?
Not blindly praising the hyped aspects, but instead explaining what the real deal is.
That is why I subscribed, and unlike the Free tools, you do not disappoint.
Keep up the great reviews, and I can only hope your honest channel grows to rival those of the sycophants, shills, and fanboys.
Thank you very much for your subscription. Your support means a great deal as well. Hopefully my little channel can one day grow into something special. I have found that I really enjoy passing on knowledge to other people. I have plans to add how-to videos in the future that will cover everything from simple DIY projects to full on construction projects as well as covering the tools to do such projects. Thanks again for watching, and for your support.
You could join forum.multitool.org if you haven't already. Lots of information and people who appreciate honest reviews, who would increase your audience.
I mean theres plenty of videos out there that do this lol. Everyone has their tools for their own specific purposes, and find flaws and positives based on their uses.
And how ironic that he didnt even use them before doing this video lmaoo. Just theorizing. Funny to look back at these old videos and remember when people thought the magnets were going to be a problem. Turned out that was a complete myth. I've had my P2 for over 2 years now and after grinding literal tons of metal, have had absolutely no issues with the magnets. I have really tough hands so I never felt any hot spots either. I was just looking for videos comparing the 2 side by side because I was considering getting the P4 and wasnt sure how much bigger it was. Guess Ill just get the P4 and sell it if it isnt what I want.
I called Leatherman to order the pocket clip for the P4 and they told me that they would send me one for free. Looks like they came to agreement that they should have included with the unit. They told me that they were planning on sending clips to all who purchased the P4 through Leatherman. Call them if you have questions.
Scott Bennett Thank you for letting us know that.
FINALLY! A useful critical review for the Letherman FREE! Thanks and keep up the great work! I just subbed! Cheers!
Thank you very much, and thank you for your subscription.
"FINALLY!"
So you've been sitting around waiting for a negative review? Why? That's pretty fucking weird.
TX Tool Crib let me know what I need to do to get a deal on your P4 if you’re selling..I do leatherwork and would love to do a job for ya
@@profd65 He said critical, not negative. Most people who reviewed the Free series did so from a superficial perspective and not practical. TX Tool Crib takes a more practical approach and isn't as impressed by flashiness as most UA-cam tool reviewers. After hearing their glowing reviews while completely ignoring the negative aspects of the tool, it's refreshing to hear an honest take from someone who actually USES tools instead of merely collecting them.
Thanks for the review. I'm keeping my Wave. They went 1 step forward and 2 steps back!
Thank you. Absolutely nothing wrong with the Wave. There is a reason it has been produced for over 20 years.
I know some guys fuss about the little ruler, but I love little details like that--I measure brake and tire wear on commercial aircraft and would use this all the time. Also handy for taking notes on dents and minor damage that need to be documented.
You make a good point, I could absolutely see how it could be useful in that application. I guess I shouldn't complain. It is just laser etched into the tool, so if they can, why not right? It just a little bonus tool. I actually prefer the frame stamped ruler for my applications though.
@@txtoolcrib Either way, thanks for the review--no doubt the free line is garnering lots of attention!
Seriously?
I was waiting for your video to take a look on the new leatherman tools. Your reviews are the best on youtube.
My impression is that the new "free" line is too fancy. I prefer the good old surge, with real tools for real life, as leatherman used to say.
Thank you Miguel, that is a helluva compliment. I tend to agree with you. I feel like the new FREE series are basically fidget tools for grown men. They do have some pretty cool engineering, but on the whole they just don't work for me. Leatherman can do better.
It's like they included toy versions of some of the tools on the Surge and Wave, like how they went from an 8 inch ruler to a 1.4 inch ruler, or from a pretty large file to one that's barely a nail file.
I own a surge and waiting for my crunch. Perfect combo
Good review. I’m sticking with my Wave as it has proven itself over the years for me. In fact, I plan to buy a new Wave as mine is pretty old and doesn’t have the replaceable cutters. Thanks.
The Wave is time tested to be one of the best, no doubt. I think that is a good choice.
Great videos. Makes me wish I hadn’t dropped my modified Free P2 to the bottom of Santa Cruz lake while fishing last month (modded with a custom bit exchanger that accepted Leatherman bit sets AND 1/4” hex bits at a 90* angle) I wanted to mention to you because i’m not sure if you noticed; but the floating tool spacers also flex and act as mini leaf springs to provide tension to the locking bar. As for my 2 cents, I had my P2 for 8 months, and as a medium duty/urban/EDC it worked perfectly for me and my daily uses. Sure I could nitpick about wishing the blade was straight edge instead of a combo straight/serrated or wishing it came in S30V or with a bit exchanger. But I either modified it or adapted how I use it like keeping the magnets clean, smoothing any hot spots, etc. Since you can already customize designs on your Leatherman, I think the next evolution for the company will be offering modular tools that can have tools easily swapped out or allow us to choose a frame style and arrange each specific tool we want to be fitted from the factory. It’s the best solution in my mind to satisfy the most people especially when their tools are averaging around $120. That’s a lot to not get exactly what you want. Anyway keep up the good work and if you have any suggestions to help me replace my Free P2 like knowing someone who may be selling or would barter, I’m willing to consider ANY model or brand of multi tool if it’s good quality and a good deal. Thank you
Good honest review, highlighting both the good & bad. I look forward to watching more of your reviews. Thank you so much !
Thank you, I appreciate you taking the time to watch.
Awesome review. I had some multi-tool lust over the free series. After your review I'll be staying with my Leatherman Wave.
Thank you. I know what you mean. I was pretty excited about these new tools when I first saw them as well. I thought initially that the magnets were going to be an issue, but I wanted to keep an open mind. After encountering some of the other issues, I must say I was more than disappointed. If they were half the price I would be okay with the new designs. The high cost of these multi tools and their lack of functionality clearly sets them in the no go category for me though. Thanks for you comment, and thanks for watching.
I wasn't excited about the P2 or P4 but after using them both for about a 1.5 months I freaking love them
I still can't get with them. They just feel flimsy to me. I can see where people find them useful for lighter tasks though. The fast deploy tools are kind of what sets it apart.
Also, those spacers between the outer tools and the inner tools are the springs for the tool lock.
Press and release the lock for the tools and you’ll see them flexing.
Genesis You are absolutely right. I knew that, but I forgot to mention it in the video. I don’t go off of a script when doing the few videos I have done, it is sort of off the cuff. Seems I always forget something. Maybe I should be using a script in future videos. That’s a good eye btw, nice catch.
TX Tool Crib Update on the Free P4:
I’ve found that the plier head will occasionally bind up after cutting wire to the point where opening the pliers will require more force than is necessary to fold the tool.
That’s kinda bothersome. Although it will go back to normal after working it back and forth for a bit.
I’m new to the world of multi-tools and heard the free was coming out, once I saw they didn’t have exchangeable bits. I went with the wave. Great video.
Ryan Morales I don’t think you will disappointed with the Wave at all.
Great review! I have a charge tti and wanted an upgrade. For my daily use this doesn't seem like an upgrade. It's still a beautiful tool don't get me wrong, but a tool is not meant to look beautiful. It needs to be useful and practical. The bit kit is a must for me and I use the eyeglass screwdriver for many other uses. Thanks for the great review I'll stick with my charge
I really like the Charge. I wish they had a similar upgrade model for the Surge. I would jump all over that.
So far the charge ti is the best of the best
I have been waiting to get my hands on one of these here in Australia. I haven't seen one out yet, so your review is timely for me. It was also a nice clear presentation. Your comment about the magnets is exactly what I thought also when I first saw these tools presented. Like you, I have a collection of Leatherman's, and I use them all mostly in a fabrication environment. I also do electronics work. A magnet is bad for cleaning, and can be bad in electronics, so I'm not a fan of that part of their design.
Here the P4 is $340 and the P2 is $290, so not real cheap (exchange is about 1.7 AUD = 1 USD). I haven't done the maths to compare to the prices you said.
That's my 20 cents. Thanks for your review.
Darren of Photos I estimate your prices in Australia to be about 40 percent higher than the US when adjusting for the exchange rate. I would assume, but can’t be certain that the prices are reflective of the extra cost of shipping. Seems a bit much, but then I have never had the occasion to ship anything to Australia. I think these two multi tools will find their place among the younger crowds who are not blue collar workers. I think the fact that they are one handed operable has disillusioned quite a few people to the fact that the tool sets are a bit of a step backwards. I guess time will tell. I have noticed that some of the people that had posted early videos and were singing the praises of these new multi tools are starting to take a step back though. I just hope that Leatherman does not see this magnetic architecture as the future of multi tools and try to incorporate the design into existing and future models. Thanks for your comment and for taking the time to watch my rather lengthy video.
First day of hard use on my new P2. You hit it right on the head with how the handles dig into your hands. As well as the lock release has some very sharp feeling edges. Hate the combo edge blade. Hate the tiny file and not having the diamond coating. The wire stripper is a total joke.
I love the one handed operations.
I do commercial HVAC and use my Leatherman all day long. I was really excited about Leatherman’s second attempt at a one handed multi tool (first being the OHT obviously)
I’ll give it some more time, but so far I’m on the fence.
Great video! Thanks.
Thanks for comments. I would imagine that in HVAC work you are constantly around metal shards and shaving. Maybe you could get back with us to let us know if the magnets in the P2 pick up a lot of trash, and if so how long. It would be interesting to see how these tools perform in different industries.
I work at a hardware store right now and I have to say the Wave is by far the most useful one-does-it-all tool (customers come in with all kinds of problems; bit exchanger for hex or Robertson for furniture or license plate installs, diamond sharpener to keep our water hose cutter going, serrated blade for cutting rope, large flat head for prying open cans of paint, tiny scissors to open skillfully and then reseal packages, wood & metal sharpener to smooth edges on poorly finished products, real long ruler to see if it's a metric or sae bolt and its length, heavy wire cutters for small chain and wire jewellery screwdriver for battery compartment on watches and scales AND big curvy can opener for lunch 🤓), so unfortunately I'm disappointed that in the last few years from leatherman there has been the Signal (too much plastic IMO) the juice cs3 (half juice just to get the famous s2 scissors) and now the free (urban edc folks who don't actually use the tool daily or even monthly will love it) is very disheartening 😔
Food for thought:
So, I spoke to Leatherman today and they stated that all future orders of the P4 will be sent out with the pocket clip.
Also, I uploaded a new video of my P2 after a few days of hard use. My unboxing video was swayed due to anticipation and excitement. (Oops)
A-Aron M. Thank you for letting us know that. If I may ask, what are the points that have lessened your excitement about the new models?
Same comment thread, up just a couple, I left you a list.
I also added a second video after a couple days and receiving several questions.
Your video is very informative. I collect the multi tools, for fun and conversational purposes. I have the Leatherman surge, and Gerber truss, my favorites, especially the Gerber Truss as it's loaded with plenty of tools, but the Gerber truss is for display purposes only, the tolerances are so close and the frame so weak, that it would get bent out of shape quite easily. Leatherman surge is the one I would rely on if I had to, I have many other varieties such as Grandway Swiss Army products, all of them junk, that is unless you consider, that's some of them are really interesting and make good conversational pieces when passed around to friends, just before bringing out the quality pieces. Conclusion, Leatherman surge is the only practical one on the market today.
You confirm my position, which is no to magnets, and lack of tool options such as a real metal file and exchangeable saw as well as the exchangeable bits as is the case with the leatherman surge. Of course I will still buy the P2 and P4, because I collect these things and it's always good conversation around the coffee table. Thanks very much, for your information.
You are very welcome sir.
Wish I could have seen this video before I ordered. The handle play is a huge drawback I wish I saw pointed out elsewhere. Great review
Thank you sir.
A very descriptive and detailed professional review, I am about to review surge and wave plus. I always carry wave plus since it's not as heavy as surge, but by far Surge is beast of all multi tools on my viewpoint and I believe you will agree with me too. Keep the good work as you gave me enough details on free series (e.g. locking mechanism "Elastomer spring") and many more technical specs that I know how fidgety the tool really is. Keep up the good work.
Thank you sir, and thanks for watching. I look forward to seeing your review.
Good review. I’ve had mine for a week. I think your opinion is going to be based on your trade. I’m an exterminator by trade and I use mine to hang fly lights while on ladders, set traps and adjust my sprayers among other things out in the field. They are best multi tool I’ve ever owned. The weight is right and the tools are easy to deploy. I’ve owned a Surge and it was too heavy and clunky for my use. There is a multi tool to fit every trade out there. Don’t discard it over someone else’s opinion. Test it out. You might like it... or not.
You're right about looking at things from your own point of view. I try to keep my opinions as open as possible, but it is hard not to evaluate multi tools, and tools in general, from your own trade and perspective. Of course, watching reviews on UA-cam for years myself, I always felt like there was a lack of reviewers that actually do work in the trades giving the reviews. I wish I had more time to do it, because I enjoy passing along my knowledge and experience with others who are willing to hear my opinions on what I think are the most quality products. I try to tell people that what works for me, may not work for you. People have seemed fairly receptive to hearing what I have to say so far, for the most part. Thank you for your compliment and for taking the time to comment.
I’m looking at getting a multi tool for work I’ve always been a knife guy but these videos are so informative and answer every question I have. Great job brother!
Happy to help, hope you find the right fit for you.
so the P2 is a wingman and the P4 is a Swisstool, but with mustard on them. Got it!
100% agree with the magnet concerns. I carry an inspection screwdriver with a magnet on the handle for operating flow meters (internal magnet switches) in my breast pocket and I'll tell you right now that thing is constantly picking up metal debris from all the work we do with iron pipe and crusty old fire hydrants. I can't imagine a magnet in the inner workings of a multitool being a good idea, at least for us industrial types. I'm sure there are many environments out there for it, but certainly worth hanging a light on this one.
My P4 came with a scale that says “P2”. . .
I wish the file got rid of the single cut side in favor of a diamond side. Or that they put a diamond file on the other side of the ruler tool.
The philips/bottle opener and flathead/package opener/pry tool are better than I thought they’d be. . . I thought they’d be lifted from the Sidekick/Wingman.
Ruler should’ve been along the frame like the Surge.
Would’ve been nice to have some gimping on the spine of the serrated blade like nearly EVERY other Leatherman.
They COULD give FREE access to the Bit Kit by making an attachment with a quarter inch socket that would slide over both of the drivers (when they are opened together).
Also, GIMME a pocket clip, dammit.
Genesis I have heard of a couple of other people getting the P4 with P2 stamping as well. Leatherman really needs to step up their quality control. I agree with the stamping on the frame for the ruler. I was curious why they didn’t add the gimping to the serrated blade spine as well. You have some excellent points.
TX Tool Crib Leatherman has ignored me on Twitter when I have tried telling them about the messed-up scale. I was super surprised when I saw it. Not something I expected from them. I made sure to mention it in my review on their website.
I have a pretty large collection of pretty much every model they have ever released with the only exceptions being E.O.D. Tools.
The Juice Pro (I have 6 of them) and Surge are probably my favorite tools, and I carry them pretty much every day.
Thanks for the lengthy introductory review (in the last week there have been 2 dozen really long videos on the free series, but unfortunately no one seems to have actually used the tool, too scared to due to price or still in the ooh, aww stage - I don’t know). You had lots of great points (hot spot just like on Rebar, way too much flex like on cheap multitools that can cause plier heads to separate (try pulling a nail with a leatherman compared to a swisstool - night and day), spot where magnets are is where wood shavings in addition to metal filings will gather, no bit exchanger which means no Robertson or square bits or any other hex, torx, or special bits and the plier head area seems too small relative to the size of the gerber mp600 blunt nose or Surge, ... Thank you very much for taking one for the team as I think I and many others who can’t justify the price are grateful for yours and many other youtubers detailed use of the tool over the longer term 👏
You're quite welcome. I think you hit the nail on the head when you said the "oooh, aaaah stage". Sometimes people don't want to admit they made a bad purchase and try to justify it. Others, I get the impression that they don't actually use their multi tools sometimes. Rather, they have them as collector pieces or just because of the "cool" factor. At any rate, thanks for your comments, and thanks for watching.
Sir, Thank you for your quality content. You provide clear and concise info.
Great review. You hit on things I wanted more information on.
Thank you, I'm glad I could help.
Informative review; I purchased the P4 b/c of the 1 handed operation of all tools including closing. I ordered the LM driver b/c it should fit over the Phillips tool and store in extra pockets of the LM holder. If and when the magnets draw too much carbon I’ll return it for refurb under the 25 year warranty. In short, this is the tool for me.
This is absolutely the best review I have seen so far about the Leatherman free P4. I pretty much watched all the reviews in UA-cam because I wasn’t sure if I want to get the Charge or this new Free P4. After watching this I think I’ll just go ahead and purchase the charge. I just subbed to ur channel, thank you for this awesome review.
Thank you very much
The best review of Free series I ever see. Period.
Henrique Takami Thank you.
Free P4 is my favorite EDC, works for me. Mods can do wonders
At last an honest review congrats profit maximizing cnc rubbish
sean bradshaw I am personally a big fan of Leatherman tools, but I couldn’t in good conscience rave about these multi tools as the next best thing when I don’t believe that. I believe in speaking the truth at all times, even when it isn’t in your own best interest. In Texas, we call that integrity. Thanks for watching.
@@txtoolcrib I own 9 waves 5 surges and 5 charges not counting the juices squirts or vintage models just very disappointing btw most secondary market
great review, i personally am a leatherman surge guy myself. i have the leatherman skeletool cx that i carry out side of work but personally the surge, wave and the OHT are the only ones leatherman made for heavy duty work. yes their are others like the Mut, signal, and super tool 300 OED. but they have specialty tools that favor the military. all the others are just your light duty multi tools. but that's just my opinion you're a much better reviewer than i am.
Matt Wilson I think you are correct, with one exception. The SuperTool 300 is quite robust and capable in heavy duty use applications. Medium duty tools definitely have their place though. I like all styles and size categories , so long as they are useful. Some of my favorites from Leatherman that don’t get much attention are the Raptors and the Crunch. As far as being a great reviewer, I appreciate the compliment, but I often forget one or two points that I wanted to talk about. Hopefully with practice I will get better. I just want to help people make an informed decision about what tools work for them, and which don’t.
Yes, I agree with the topic of the video because it's the first generation of that kind of new multitool so, can be so many kind of negative things.
Better wait for the consumer reports and maybe with that feedback they will improve their tools.
Your reviews are really great! Keep doing these reviews, it is truthful, informative and enlightening. I was waiting for your take on this.
That's a very humbling compliment, thank you sir. I appreciate you saying that.
Great video. Extremely informative and you’re right, very similar conclusions. I’ve been going out of my way to hard use my P2 for the last 5 days or so and it’s just not good. You couldn’t be more right, when I hear diwn in the pliers it’s frankly painful. I also learned a lot from your video that I didn’t know when I opened my tool for the first time. Thanks for a great video!
Geared Toward Gear Thanks. May I assume you intend to get an update video out with your experience with the new P2?
@TX Tool Crib - Absolutely. I’ll probably film it today actually now that I have 6 days use on it.
Great review. Finally an honest straight forward review buy someone who understands tools. I think I will still with my older Leatherman
Personally, I think that is a good choice. Although to some people the ease of access is valuable. I was talking to a vet not long ago who lost a limb, for him these new tools were game changers. In that scenario it would be totally understandable.
I've heard a number of reviews all say they wish the bit kit from the Wave+ had carried over. I feel that if the Free had this, and the package opener off the Wingman, it would be a far more ideal took. I would be okay without the various tools that "include" screwdrivers, as well as can opener, the ruler, and the awl, in order to gain these tools. Really appreciate your detailed look at the Free, and your insight.
You're very welcome, thank you for watching.
I'm hoping they finally see all the money they would make if they let us customize the tools we get
Good video--I like your critical review of the tool. You don't sugarcoat it, at all!
but I don't agree with you of how it's "a step back for Leatherman." It all depends on the end use of the tool. In my use, a Leatherman is a convenient option when I need to do something, fast. A Leatherman, generally speaking, is "jack of all trades, master of none."
Heavy duty all day jobs = heavy duty, specialized tools
Medium duty one-off tasks = Leatherman
This was a fantastic review. I really appreciate the thoroughness.
vickersjd27 You’re quite welcome. Thanks for taking the time to watch, I know it was kind of long.
I love my Leathermans -- all l do is play with them on the couch watching movies - is that bad ? 😂
Lol, everyone has their fetishes.
I love my wave+ but I have to admit I always reach for my P4 now after buying it.
I like that you tell your opinion fair and square. You are a very talented presentation maker sir. Thank you for your videos.
Thank you very much sir.
feedback for Leatherman: When the pliers are activated, there needs to be a locking feature (heavyduty) that prevent the handles from closing partiallyy or fully. Also please make P4 lighter than the Wave? thx
I might still buy this tool strictly for fishing - three main tools are pliers, scissors and knife for this activity and being able to stream line them into a tool that has the scissors outside accessible with one hand seems great. Other than that, I'll probably use this as a fidget toy at my desk.
Will probably stick with skeletool for EDC and surge in my tool bag though.
Jayjayhooks Outside of an industrial setting, it should be fine. Because of this multi tool size, I feel it should be on the high end of the medium duty multi tools. Hopefully it will work out for you.
*I'm sending my " free p4" back to them. It does not operate as smooth or as easy as they claimed it would. The pliers aren't spring assisted. It weighs alot. I'm happier with my older broken in leatherman. I don't feel like this was worth the $139 I spent.*
You mean to tell me that you actually bought this junk??? I guess there really is a sucker born every minute!!!
So much heavy, it will pull your pants down and that can land you in jail!!! Now'adays!!!😱
Great review, thanks! 👍...When it comes to the new sheath 1:30 the P2 fit better when you clip it on to the sheath, leaving the pocket clip on the outside, that way it won't be so bulky and the cover flap can be snapped in place without any issue, but why have the pocket clip on the tool if you're using a sheath?🙄 ... Anyhow, the P4 suppose to be in the sheath with the lanyard ring facing up so it can be easily pull out by grabbing the lanyard, but like you mentioned in your video, if you don't use lanyards might as well get rid of it, that way you'll be able to one hand open the outside accessible tools.
You're absolutely right about the P2 fitting much better when you clip it onto the front of the sheath. The thing I don't like about the lanyard placement on these two tools is that they are on the plier side of the multi tool instead of the bottom. It seems to me that if you did decide to use a lanyard it would be in the way whenever you were using the pliers. I should have touched on that in the video, seems like I always forget something.
@@txtoolcrib Drilling same diameter holes on the bottom side to relocate the pocket clip or lanyard ring will work, but not enough room, they will interfere with the blades opening and small tools locking tabs, that's the reason why they are on the pliers side. You can always use a lanyard with detachable lobster clip clamp though🙄
Your multitool reviews are simply the best by far. Your attention to detail is outstanding. I would like to see some demonstrations especially with comparisons. Thank you for making these videos 👍
Thank you very much, I appreciate that. I do plan to get some comparisons out soon, in which I will really be putting different models head to head and testing out their capabilities on video.
Shame the pliers aren't spring loaded. So frustrating trying to use pliers that you have to manually open
Awesome review i returned mine it wasn’t what I was expecting from Leatherman for that price tag also the side to side play did it for me
Liam Sellick Thank you. It was disappointing for me to be so critical of the new FREE series, because I am a big Leatherman fan. It will be interesting to see how it does in the marketplace in the coming months.
TX Tool Crib across the Facebook groups mixed reviews the Leatherman fans are left let down massively I was misled by the blades show reviews of the free by the Leatherman staff I didn’t actually think they were bugging it up I thought it was going to be like any other that feels solid in your hands 👍
Liam Sellick I’m so social media inept, I didn’t even know there was a Facebook group for multi tool or Leatherman fans. I’m getting too damn old. Lol
I like the Free P2 because the P4 just have too many knives; excluding other things. Honestly, I find I rarely need a knife... I often enough need a package-opener, but a straight edge is not the best for that. I certainly don't need a straight blade, a serrated blade, a saw and a package-opener in one mulittool. It just limites what else there could be in one. And the more, the heavier.
I love the Surge, but the main fault I have with it is how heavy it is.
I carry the supertool 300 (though it lacks scissors), but the wave+ or Rebar is the best balance for "comfy-bility" of everyday carry.
The "useless ruler" would work good as a depth gauge
Great review! I’ll stick with my surge. Bought it a month ago and i’ll not look back for an edc
Gt Rul3s I’m biased when it comes to the Surge, but I think that is a very good decision.
TX Tool Crib but you have a really good reason to be biased. It’s a beast! I’ m a welder too and i’m hard on my tools. I use it every single day and it take it like it’s nothing!
Biggest thing holding me back was lack of bit driver. Yeah i don't use that tool much, but why take it away, its nice to have in case i need it.
Hi, it seems that you acquired your Free Series right after their release. Does your P2/P4 comes with the production date stamp? Mine doesn’t have any stamp so I want to confirm it to others. They said early released doesn’t have manufacturing date. Do you know anything about it. TIA
Thanks for doing this. It was helpful to see the comparison between the two models and your thoughts on the design. Good balance of pros and cons, and really liked the diagrams u made to explain the design. It certainly shed some light on aiding my decision process on whether to buy it.
For me personally, the only thing i value here is the one handed operation. Not that thats anything small; it's certainly a great design and feat of engineering. But weighing that against lack of modularity (no interchangeable bits or saw/file that you can find on the Surge or MP600) is what holds me back here.
Will be interesting to see what the aftermarket world will come up with with the Free line. If this could have those 2 previous aforementioned modular tools, i may be interested...as long as they throw in that free pocket clip. Come on now!
But anyways, solid overview. Looking forward to seeing u getting some jobs done with the Free. Should be fun to work with.
Thanks for you comment. I really don't like the fact that they excluded the bit exchanger on the new models either. They really took away from the capabilities of this design in my opinion. It is amazing to me that they didn't provide a pocket clip with the P4 for the price they are asking. It doesn't effect me personally, because I don't use pocket clips on larger tools, but I know a great many that do. Thanks for watching.
@@txtoolcrib yeah, or at least offer it for free with proof of purchase for P4 owners (considering the P2 comes with it and is cheaper). I think what's achieved here with the Free line is a new foundation for design. Hope Leatherman continues to run with it and make improvements.
Really great comparison video.. Thanks!
i just dont get it '' OUR BEST MULTITOOL IN 25 YEARS " then put all the cheap useless tools in there that they can find and exclude all the good ones.
how is not 1 clown at leatherman saying hey, maybe 5 flat heads and basicly nothing else is stupid ?
that beeing said. very good review!
I remember thinking almost the same thing when I saw the initial release videos from SHOT Show. Most of the videos were moving pretty fast though and I couldn't get a very good look at the tools or the overall design. I gave the new FREE series the benefit of the doubt, but ultimately they came up short of what I expect from a well built multi tool.
These multi-tools are great for having around when you don't have access to a toolbox with real tools, so I wonder if spending 140 bucks on these are worth the money or if a 20 bucks one can get you out of trouble quickly as well. I feel that these multi-tools, whatever the brand will never replace proper tools. You can buy many quality sturdy tools for a price of a Leatherman. Just my thought. Great review though, very engaging and thorough
You're not wrong, the difference is that it is unlikely that you would be carrying all of those tools on you when you really need them. That is benefit to a multi tool. I own literally well over $100,000 in tools, and I still carry a multi tool everyday.
Another thing I’ve been saying for years (and I’ve started seeing lots of other guys saying it), a BUILD YOUR OWN TOOL APP! They need to develop three frames/plier head sizes. Small med and large. Then you would just have a list of tools to choose from. They would literally put every other tool manufacturer out of business. Naysayers always go “yeah right, do you know how hard that would be, you really think the tools are cross compatible?” Uh, yeah! That’s why I was able to sit down at my kitchen table and retrofit my rebar with a bit driver, a pocket clip, and a clamshell opener off of a wingman (or sidekick? Idk). The parts were basically drop in. I had to spend maybe 15 minutes with the dremel on the package opener to get it to interface with the rebars lock, but that’s it. Turned the unassuming little rebar into one of my go to tools
Marcus Grimes I would love to see your modified Rebar.
Is there a way to send pics here on UA-cam? Idk, I was actually thinking about doing a video on it and posting to my other channel.
There is not to my knowledge. I think a lot of people would enjoy seeing a video of your modifications. If you are so inclined, you may email me at txtoolcrib@gmail.com.
I think the ruler is for measuring screws
Lanyard ring catching at Free P4: why don't you turn it to the inside? There's no rim to catch on.
I'm not fond of that magnet. Maybe ok for EDC, but in the outdoors, being a strong neodym magnet, you have to be aware that it will affect any compass over a quite significant distance, so you can easily be mislead.
That I hadn't even thought about. Thank you for your input.
This has been the best review and these tools I have seen yet a very nice review thank you
Thank you sir
Hated those screw drivers. Most of the time jumps out of the screw which means you'll be needing quite a force to even turn them a bit. Worst if they don't have a lock.
Great review ! Does your P4 have some play/wiggle when its closed? Mine does when its closed and opened . My surge has none and is rock solid as anything.
It does have some play. The little tabs that they press into the frame do a decent job of keeping the handles together, but it is evident that there is some movement there. The reason that the surge doesn’t have that kind of movement is because of the way the handle is stamped. It has multiple breaks and bends that really strengthens the handles considerably.
I really dislike a serrated blade as my main blade. I will never buy a multitool with such a blade. Overall I think I would pick the 4 over the 2.
And, I don't understand why the made the saw like that on the 4.weirs tip. Takes of some Lenght for sawing.
Think I'll stick with my wave+.
Hoping one day to own a surge.
Awesome video! Think I'm gonna get the P2 for an easier pocket carry and keep my Wave on my backpack.
Thank you. I think the FREE series will be just fine if it isn't used in heavy duty applications. My opinions are most biased towards heavy application use though, because that is what I do. What works for me, may not work for you, and visa versa. Thanks for watching.
Do you think that there could be a way for this to be a one-handed accessible tool without the magnets but with another "retainment mechanism" for the external tools?
That is a very good question. I have tried to give that very ideas some thought, but I haven’t come up with a solution that I think would be viable yet. I understand why they chose to go magnetic in order to accomplish that one-handed accessibility. I think it’s actually possible to accomplish the same thing without using magnets but I don’t have the solution quite yet. Do you have any ideas on how they might accomplish that?
Суперрррррр! Вот когда пожалеешь, что не учил английский язык!
Но даже без этого, огромное спасибо!
Я смотрю несколько видео на русском языке. Иногда бывает трудно успевать за тем, что они говорят, но я стараюсь. Я хотел бы говорить на вашем языке. Я хочу поблагодарить вас за просмотр моих видео, я знаю, как трудно понять язык, о котором вы не знаете Благодаря возможностям Интернета мы можем, по крайней мере, сделать попытку общения.
@@txtoolcrib огромнейшее, огромнейшее Вам спасибо за понимание, за коммуникацию, и за прекрасные, техничные, конструктивные, подробные, своевременные обзоры!!!
Добро пожаловать, мой новый друг. Я надеюсь, что мои видео продолжают быть информативными для вас и заработать вашу подписку. Я пытался найти способ добавить субтитры в мои видео для людей, которые не говорят по-английски. Я новичок в этом, поэтому я не знаю, как лучше поступить. Если есть предложения, буду признателен.
Wave is still #1 by far.
B S I don’t completely agree, but I grant your premise sir. I think the Wave is better than the new FREE series. Thanks for watching.
@@txtoolcrib The lock buttons on the Surge feel more flimsy than on the Wave and the ergonomics aren't as good. I can flip my Wave open in exactly the same way that you do with the Free P2/P4.
PointyFox You may very well be right. I think it comes down to how a multi tool feels in your hand. Because I have fairly large hands, I find that the Surge is a better fit for me personally.
The more I use my p4, I realize that is a gorgeous beautiful nice looking multitool over functionality😅, it will never beat my surge, surge is a beast/monster functional multitool, I torture my surge every day at work, I tried to do the same with my p4, and is so nice and delicate that I feel guilty 😅
LOL. I can relate to that.
Excellent review bud. Love an honest perspective.
Thank you
Good review, I share the concern with magnets as a boilermaker. No deal for me.
t1 Thank you. I spent about 6 months in a boiler factory when I was younger. You’re absolutely right, a magnetic tool wouldn’t fair very well in that environment.
Is P4 good for urbanite in office/home environment who don’t have metal dust around them when using the tool?
That I can agree with.
@@txtoolcrib Thanks for your reply. I wish it has a metal/plastic stealth with carbide glass breaker like the Leatherman Raptor, then it would be the perfect multi-tool for the urbanite. The reason of including the carbide glass breaker is that for the past one month or two, my UA-cam recommended videos of people stuck inside their cars and people outside trying to break their car windows with anything on their hands but a carbide glass breaker to get to them to render medical help, and that is what makes me think of having a tool to break the car windows.
both of them still not arrived in my country yet..
wassalibi Which country do you hail from sir?
@@txtoolcrib malaysia. sir..
Don't hold your breath not missing out
Thanks for the review. You brought up a lot of good points that give me pause for buying one of these. However, I find it ridiculous that you are not willing to test out your theory about the magnets collecting so much more material. You are a tool reviewer, that is your chosen job. If you are not willing to put it through its paces in real life situations, then who is supposed to do it?
First of all, thank you and thanks for watching. I wouldn't say that I am a "professional reviewer". I own my own business and go very long stretches without much free time. So, reviewing in not my profession. I do take your point though. I haven't totally discounted the possibility of testing these models out further. Unfortunately it will not be this week, because I am flying home to see my wife and kids for a week. That being said, it is not a theory. It is a certainty that those magnets will eventually fill up with metallic debris. How long depends on the type of use that the multi tool will see. I for example, will likely have to clean the multi tool within a week under normal working conditions on the job site. The average user might go a couple of months without having to clean it. It really depends on the user, like most things. I'm sure I wear out tires faster than you do, for example. That is probably because I drive close to 100,000 miles a year, and the average driver may drive 15,000. I would have to make quite a bit money to turn into a professional tool reviewer and give up the living I make now. I just do this to try to help inform people about the subjects that I know. I have watched a lot of reviews on items that I have looked to purchase in the past, well beyond the realm of multi tools. I always felt that the vast majority of people that review products lacked a certain knowledge of how the products worked or what their true capabilities were. So I decided to start making a few videos about some of the things I know about in an effort to help people make better informed decisions on different products. I only do them in my spare time right now. Someday, my little channel may grow into something special. But for the time being I have a limited amount of time that I can devote to doing these videos. I have had some pretty positive responses from people, and that is incentive to devote more of my time to build my channel. I am sorry if my response was long winded, and once again, thank you for watching.
Hi Ben, this is a very good talk about the free P indeed. Thank you for your sharing. I have a "what if" question for you that I really want you to try imagine.
What if Leatherman never produced the Surge line and the SuperTool line ever, what would be your #1 multitool of this brand?
That is a very good question. If the Surge and SuperTool line were not available, the larger SwissTool (original) would be my first choice. I like the larger size and capabilities of the larger multi tools.
Surge
SwissTool
SuperTool 300
Charge+, Wave, SwissTool Spirit X (These all rank pretty close for me)
Rebar
Wingman
Juice Series
You mentioned steel quality. What is the best grade steel quality from all of your's (or in general) multi-tools and knifes?
I mean if I wanna buy top quality build steel, what models do you suggest?
Ask 5 different people, you’ll get 5 different answers. The 420HC that Leatherman uses on its blades is fine for a general use knife. I personally like like the 154CM blades on the Charge+ the best. Better edge retention without being overly difficult to sharpen. Leatherman Charge+ TTi comes with an S30V blade. Theoretically it is better. I just prefer a slightly softer blade. Another consideration, the harder the blades steel, the less forgiving it is to bending. Victorinox uses a bit softer blade steel than the 420HC. You’ll notice that their blades have a tendency to bend instead of break under loads or misuse. Personally, I think the 420HC is a good higher end budget steel. Lots of people will criticize just to have something to criticize. Really it all comes down to personal preference, and in my case that is 154CM.
I just got a skeletool off eBay for 35 bucks in excellent condition now I’m trying to decide on my second multi tool I’m torn between P-1,P2 or surge any recommendations?
depends what your looking for if you have a skeletool like you have now I'd go for the surge so that way you have your more pocket friendly compact multi tool and then you keep the surge as a more heavy duty use tool that acts more like a "compact tool kit" you can throw in a pack or keep in the glovebox of a car or anywhere else. Personally i'd not recommend any of the free series tools cause I see them as awful value for money for a few reasons as followed magnetically held in place tools just are an accident waiting to happen, the knifeblade is 420hc and at the asking price of the free series when the charge aluminum/titanium are on the market for 20$ more with a significantly better blade steel, the free series in my opinion lack a bit driver of any kind and have also poorly designed tools the 2d Phillip's screwdriver is a joke of a tool along with too many flathead screwdrivers (Seriously why in the hell did they have 4 flat head screwdrivers), the files a stubby and worthless length for any real use imo, and last but not least it just screams "Designed by an intern who doesn't use tools at all". Honestly my recommendation is a wave plus if you want a medium sized tool that's still capable.
One thing that annoys me are the people who don't understand the free p4
1. It's completely 100% usable with just 1 hand
2. It was a completely new design
3. I do wish it had a bit driver...
I started out with a skeletool aswell
Now I have a Crunch And Free P4
I work on cars and also do mold remediation where I spend alot of time in attic with fog heads that need adjusting and torn apart for cleaning
So your career and life style may vary
well thx a lot for this honest exhaustive and very instructive review !
You're welcome. Sometimes my videos get a bit long.
I think I'll get the p2 to carry to my office job but anything outside of that and I'll stick to my Gerber mp600. Can't believe Leatherman finally fixed there two main problems (one handed opening and blade locks) but completely craps all over the tools😡. Maybe there will be a p3 and p5? Or something...
Wyatt C To be fair, the other tools are not really “bad”. I think we have all come to expect more from Leatherman, especially since we know that they have produced better tools for their multi tools. I do understand what you mean though.
Or P0
I use the file on my wave , but this small metal file on the P4 is a deal breaker for me, its just too small. thanks for your review.
You’re very welcome.
It looks like they copied Victorinox on tools being accessible from the outside. The tools on the P4 are smaller than most tools. I still pick the surge and Victorinox over this tool. I love my swisstool spirit and surge. Looking to add another Victorinox to my collection but don’t know which one. Victorinox multi tools do not have the play you showed on your video.
Victorinox makes some great multi tools, I just wish they made more of them.
Awesome video ! I love watching your videos bro .
Good review but the display photo shows the "/Free series vs the Wave + which's a totally different length & blade profile.
Christopher Dewan Yes, you are correct sir. It was merely a thumbnail from a portion of the video. In my haste to publish the video I didn’t take the time to include the proper thumbnail. I apologize.
For the price of the P4 I would rather keep my Surge... You can get a Surge for about $100... Bit kit for around $20... Bit extender for $13... That's $133 for 64 tools... The trade-off is that the Surge is bigger and heavier...
JS Krawz A lot of people consider the extra heft of the Surge to be a disadvantage. I tend to see it as an advantage. The Surge is built to work, it feels like a tool. The Wave can also give you nearly the same tool set, and is $10 cheaper.
thx for the food ;), i would say you have to put them to the test, at least 1 week edc pocket carry
raoul octav I think you’re probably right. The only real way to know if they will work for you is to use them. You’re welcome btw. Thanks for watching.
I watched your two updates, before watching your main review. Very comprehensive review. Thank you. I will encounter sawdust more than metal filings, so I like the magnets, but like you said, to each his own. Here's why I think the Free is a big step forward. My first Leatherman was a Super Tool. I loved it at the time, but everything was inside and the tools were hard to pull out and even harder to put back. Leatherman has been slowly moving more tools to the outside and making them more accessible. The Free is the culmination of that trend. I agree that the Free has problems, but it's the start of a new direction in multitools that are convenient with one-handed operation. Leatherman will tweak the Free and make it better. Hopefully, they will one day marry the super-convenient Free with the beefy Surge to produce the perfect multitool.
I appreciate you taking the time to watch my videos. I think that if you are not exposed to metal shaving and filings on a regular basis, then the magnetic architecture might be fine. Of course I was very critical of that design coming from an industrial perspective. I think they could have accomplished the same thing with low friction catches instead of the magnets, maybe I’m wrong though. It does appear that they are trending differently for sure. Ease of use has been pushed to the forefront of design in the Free series tools. I must say that I am fairly disappointed with the tool selections though. Hopefully we will see more refined versions of this concept in future models. At any rate, thanks for watching and for your comments. I enjoy hearing others point of view, even when it differs from my own.
Excellent review. Subscribed. Looks like I'm sticking with the wave for a while longer. Cheers.
Thank you. I appreciate your subscription. I think the Wave is a winner as well.
Good, comprehensive review. Thank you.
Thomas Mc.Nostril You’re welcome sir.
Very informative review that was nicely done. I think I will stick with my Wave for now.
351L Thank you.
They should call the ruler a depth gauge instead.
Ummmm....I would have liked to hae seen you demo the FREE P4 one-handed as it was designed....begs the question....Is it really a one-handed MLLTI?? \
Also from a practical standpoint....I think I'd prefer the OHT as the tools are all on the outside. Are there tools on the inside of the P4 you'd really need that are missing on the OHT? Shrug.
Great analysis
Benjamin Lancaster Thank you.
Nice review.
Wish that Leatherman were made in the good 'ol USA.
Ummmmm, I retract my statement. Evidently the new Free series are indeed made in the USA (!?!).
I think, I may be wrong about this, but I think the files are made out of country and assembled here in the US. I don't necessarily discount a product because it isn't manufactured in the USA. Some of the best tools I have ever used were made in Germany and Japan, as well as the US. The Swiss make some excellent knifes and multi tools as well. All that being said, I make it a point to buy American to support my country whenever possible.
@@txtoolcrib Agree fully. I always do my best to support my fellow Americans but there are many fine products coming from overseas. One has to look no further than the QSP Parrot to find an amazing value-for-money piece coming out of China.
Great review! But I agree for that price they should have better blade steel. I'll stick to my wave plus.
Aska619 Thank you. I think that eventually the price will lower substantially on these models, but that is purely speculation on my part. For the prices they are asking, these multi tools seem more than lacking in my opinion.
@@txtoolcrib I mean I get what they are going for and I don't blame them for wanting to push forward. Yes I also understand that it isn't cheap to make them. But come on. I have the rebar, super tool 300 , the wave plus and the surge. And not once did I wish they were one handed opening. I loved them because I could count on them and they were bomb proof lol. Idk I just wanted more options I guess.
Aska619 I don’t disagree. One of the things I like most about the Surge is that when you open the pliers, it feels solid. I don’t get that same feeling with the FREE models at all.
i can deal the very short file but 2D philips? so that means you cant use the bit kit too bad.
Thanks for the great review! I will stick with the charge, the free series seems SO overpriced for what it is.
I agree. While I do like some of the innovative engineering that went into this design, I think the Wave/Charge tools are still better. There are a couple of tools on the new Free models that I would personally like to see integrated into other models though. Thanks for your comments, and you're welcome.
Thanks for the in depth review, man. Now i know the surge and wave + are the only multi tools I'll ever need. Was planning on upgrading to the free. I'm an emt and i liked the idea of being able to use a multi tool with just one hand but after watching your review, i realized that getting the free series would actually be a downgrade
Great review. Very thought out!
Thank you very much.