When I win the lottery, I plan on buying the Leatherman Arc, Sog Pentagon, Uncharted Survival Packs, a nissan frontier 2022+, and a papa johns pizza 🍕 That's the dream my friends
I edc my leatherman wave+ every day. I went to a wedding last week instead of bringing a date. I brought my Leatherman wave plus That's how much I love it🤠
I have two wives, my human wife and my Wave+. I spend my work days with the Wave+ and the evenings are spent with the wife, weekends are split between the two. I don’t think the Arc is enough to cheat on my Wave+ especially at that price.
It's pretty obvious that it was a bad batch of (replaceable) cutters. Doesn’t ruin the tool or brand for me. As an electrician, I've had certain "high end" tools fail before, but it doesnt mean the brand sucks. After carrying the Arc for a few weeks now, I'd say it fits my every day needs perfectly. Easy one-handed opperation, perfect blend of tools for me, magnacut goodness, pocket carry-able. I'm thinking my dad needs one for Christmas. Cheers.
Poor choice of words on my part. I guess what I meant was that only certain models with these particular cutters are failing, not the entire Leatherman brand.
Been carrying it for a few weeks. Wasn't really a multitool guy. The ARC changed my mind about that. I'm amazed at how much I actually use it. Kudos to Leatherman. The ARC is a home run.
So my dad is an accountant and can't even screw a lightbulb or figure out technology at all, but in his job he gets to meet a ehole bunch of companies and they give him gifts, that he ends up giving me later on. A month ago he asked me if I knew what a leatherman was and showed my the arc he recieved as a casual gift. Got me a free arc, thanks to my clueless dad (well he can count and I cannot)
@@Whatyoutakinboutnothing to feel bad about, if he's casually getting an arc as a gift, the man must be making some money. He can pay someone to change those bulbs for him.
I have a good feeling about the durability of the Arc. I have had the P4 since its release date (2019) and have used it semi heavily. Had no problems with it what so ever! I now have the Arc for about 4 weeks now and in terms of tools it is the perfect multi-tool for me. Before the Arc I had a premium knife and my P4 with me (used it as a beater knife). Now the blade of my Arc is my premium knife and I have a cheap knife with me to use as a beater.😂
I had a P2 and absolutely thrashed it in the military. It’s been back to Leatherman for repair twice. I got the arc and it definitely feels a bit heavier duty (especially the awl and pry bar).
I got an Arc after using a Wave for the last 18 years or so. It’s perfect for me working as a facilities mgr. The only negatives I’ve had were the tension on both the large and micro driver bit holders were weak. I lost the micro driver somewhere the first day, had to replace it with one from a Wave. It was easy to increase tension on the micro driver, a bit more challenging on the bit driver.
The serrated blade with gut hook was by far my favorite tool after the regular blade and pliers on all my leathermans. The price isn’t a deal breaker but the no serrated blade gut hook combo is
If you have ever carried a surge on your hip at work 5 days a week 12 hours each day . Huge difference , even though its a minuscule amount of weight difference . Only thing ive noticed with my ARC is it has a bit of side to side wiggle vs my surge is rock solid
I've had my ARC for about 3 weeks carrying it everyday to work and around the house and I have zero complaints. As a lefty I love the Free platform and the thumb stud makes opening the main blade all that much easier. Great video as always!
I like this kind of video a lot. Here we have some comparison between the recent series of a tool and former ones. Some history about it, where it came from and where it is going. Where are some changes and whether they are beneficial or more of a design flaw. EDC lives from comparison and discussion, please keep it up this way!
Only real complaint is lack of ruler. I do miss the hook from the Charge, but the easier to access, and better, scissors makes up for it some. I've used the hammer several times too, that's to have.
I went from a rebar I carried forever to an arc, and it is amazing having all the tools accessible without having to open the pliers. The rebar now lives in my backpack
I’m active duty military and I did edc a gerber mp600 issued of corse and I broke the slide mechanism so I took it upon myself to get myself a leatherman super tool 300 as it seemed more durable and I love it. My main blade is a Benchmade bailout and a cheap pocket flashlight makes up my edc. I love these edc videos as I never feel like going to tool issue to get the “proper” tool and I feel like I have everything I need
I have 20 year-old wave Leatherman. It has been perfect for all my needs. The holster for it even has a side Component to attach a small mac flashlight.
The Arc is a great tool but I'm still very happy with my P4. The many flat screwdrivers are also more useful than expected and sometimes work with Allen screws and small cross screws. For this you need the bitkit on the Arc. If I want to use the bitkit on the P4, it can also be done with the adapter. The file is small but works and the "awl" also makes good holes. In the end it is a large file against a serrated blade. and when I cut my apple I won't miss any Magnacut. So it has advantages and disadvantages and I think the P4 is still at the top and the Arc is not a must have.
Thank you so much for this video. I am retired and have carried many knives since I was 8 years old. I have a Grandson getting ready to go off to Lineman's School. When he graduates, I want to give him the best tool that he will use every day. (EDK) I think you helped to make my choice Chrystal clear...I still have my Grandfather's SAK which is in pristine condition...Great tools are worth every dime you spend.
I love the arc! It’s a proud addition to my collection of about 100 leathermans, the file is so much better than the wave/charge series, way more aggressive.. although I still carry my charge everyday for work because the magnets on the arc just do not go well as a fabricator/welder. Also find it hard not having a serrated blade
I kind of take issue with the topic of the cutters. I ordered my ARC on 17 Oct...first day available. It took about 10 days before I actually got it. About a week after having it, I was in my garage doing 'stuff in the garage things' and my cutters sheared one one side. WTH? I sent an e-mail off to Leatherman Customer Service. This was before I found out the this was a 'thing'. While on their website, I ordered (and paid for) replacement cutters. I have yet to even get an acknowledgement from them relating to my email. Kind of BS if you ask me! Aaron
Improving the blade and making it easier and more satisfying to deploy and close has actually made me start carrying it as my dedicated knife. I used to EDC a Surge on my belt + a knife in my pocket, but recent job changes has not required such a heavy duty tool on me. I tried a Wave with the pocket clip for a bit but it wasn't for me. Arc however has been amazing. Knife is significantly improved over the Wave, cliping it back to my pants is also an improved experience. The one handed nature of the tools has also been great.
My edc multitool is the Sog Powerpint i love this thing bc its small has big pliers 2 knives an ale a file - + drivers it can hold bits siccors rope cutter and a can opener
I’m a retailer and my farming customers like the hook knife on the charge for cutting baler twine. I’m not sure how the scissors will work well in that scenario.
Unfortunately when you ask for a high quality blade steel the price will go up but in this case along with the design adjustments I think it sounds like it’s well worth it like you said. I hope they do use this on other models.
Surge is the best because of the t-shank adapter. The blade is common steel but its very easy to sharpen anywhere. Not to mention that if you intend to cut dirty or gross stuff you can equip a kukri style blade (they sell it as rubber and vinyl-linoleum cutter) in the t-shank, use it and save the main blade for food.
It’s become my edc since getting it! My one critique is that I personally don’t have a need for a saw in my life. I’d have preferred the serrated blade on the P4 over the saw. That’d really have made it perfect for me, but I understand why a saw is on the tool
@@cornpop7805 you can! Ya just gotta shuffle some of the middle tools around so everything closes and moves smoothly. I also just don’t know how I feel about my P4 being partially put together in my collection, even tho I’m probably never gonna carry it again since the Arc exists and I have two. Lol
I've actually practiced and gotten fairly decent at getting to every tool one handed on my charge tti. I actually just am starting to prefer toughness in my knives, especially in multitools. I am considering even swapping the S30v blade to a standard 420hc just for the toughness as I always have a main blade on me and having a tougher blade really is convienet. Even the price i dont mind paying because its still not too bad for magnacut in reality. The hardest part about the arc for me is not having a serrated blade.
I just ordered one and I can't wait! I went from the SideKick to the WingMan and have been generally pleased with those tools for the last 10 yrs. I HATED the file on both models, so the Arc's file is exciting to me. I know there are lots of models to upgrade from the Wingman. But, my main requirements are pocket clip and one hand accessible knife, and I didn't want the extra bulk without good reason. In short, I've been waiting for something exceptional, and it appears to have arrived in the Arc. To be clear. I've never had much issue with the 420HC steel of my Wingman because it sharpens so easily with a pocket diamond steel. But, it also dulls very quickly. I'm interested to see what it takes to sharpen the Arc's MagnaCut blade.
I have a signal, in the blue and pink. I've used it probably every day since my grandmother got it for me, I think 3 years now, maybe 4? The hammer end is so useful.
Great summary/review. I’ve had a tti for years and always wondered what I’d get next but nothing, until the ARC, got me even remotely curious. Now that I have the ARC I really appreciate the ease of use/opening/closing/fluidity, plus being able to access all of the tools while it’s in the closed position. Sure, it’s a little expensive and Leatherman needs to improve their laser/etching/customization (I had to send my 1st and 2nd ARC back because they didn’t get the engraving right, but to their credit, they did take care of things), but so far it’s a great tool. Now to see how durable it is…time will tell.
I know obviously this is an ARC review however I’m contemplating instead either the Super Tool 300 or a Surge. Anyone have an opinion between these two what would be the best choice?! I should add I already own a Wave and a Charge TTI. Thanks.
If they made this version in an S30v to bring the price down I’d snag one instantly. Magnacut is nice but I normally do stuff with my leatherman that I wouldn’t do with a magnacut knife lol
@@Southernboy302 whatever’s gotta get done lol. Pry scrape cut something gross. Magnacut will do it all but when it starts coming to cutting tin or metal such a hard blade gets me nervous for chipping
Sure, that is a fine price for Magnacut, but at the same time, it's a tool, something that some people will use every day. And with carrying it every day there is a non-trivial chance of it getting lost, stolen, broken, etc. THAT is when the price tag will hurt the most.
I bought one two days ago and had a particularly busy day today, using it on many occasions throughout the day. At first, I wondered whether it was worth it as I have a perfectly good wave plus, but having spent the day with it, I realised that having access to all of the tools on the outside was everything for me. What I didn’t like about the wave is that I have to open the multitool in order to use all of the other more minor tools. With the arc, I can access everything without having to go near the pliers. For me, the arc is absolutely the best multitool leatherman has released to date. My SAK won’t get much of a look in on minor jobs now
all agree with you! I personnaly think that is one of the best Leatherman at this time. Best tool combination I've could wish to have on my Leatherman. Plus a Magnacut blade make it just the best damn edc Leatherman to me.
I haven’t got around to my video yet but I agree with all of these points! Mine has been in my pocket everyday since it arrived and I’m a huge fan of the tool set, blade steel, and I think the price is justified. Great video as always man!
From what I've read single handed opening blades are now illegal in Canada. Guess that includes my Charge which is over 10 years old and any number of small (often red) hand tools at Home Depot etc.
I have a Leatherman Rebar. I've cut 12ga romex before no problem. Just something to get you out of a bind. Not for daily heavy use. I must say the blades on the tool are surgical sharp good steel
My ideal Leatherman would be the Rebar, but with a pocket clip. It’s frustrating that they don’t put a pocket clip on all or at least their smaller/lighter models.
make a hybrid, use a wave half for an outside opening blade and pocket clip and then leave the other half as a rebar, they just bolt right together. i did it with a surge and its a better tool than anything from the factory including this thing.
Always wanted better steel, but i never had a problem with the blade on my surge. Plus with the removable diamond file it was ALWAYS sharp. I stopped carrying it a while ago as I'm not in the field as much and it weighs a lot. That Tshank tool is the best in their arsenal
I ended up getting the wave+ as its cheaper and that handy ruler is a must for me. Sometimes you just need to gage the size of something on the fly and wave+ is perfect for that.
I usey leatherman surge everyday at work. Was interested it what the arc has to offer. Biggest thing i love on the surge is the full size pliers and full size scissors.
I didn’t pay any attention for years. Partly because I built a “Re-Charge” a few years ago and it did what I needed of it. So imagine my surprise when I looked recently and saw all the changes that occurred in the several years I hadn’t looked. It also isn’t going to replace my CQC-6. It’s too handy, whichever of the new Leathermans I choose.
That file has been one of the most impressive things on the Arc for me. I recently used it on some metal working projects and it shaved down some steel and cut through a bolt quite easily. This has replaced a plain knife as my pocket EDC.
The price is completely reasonable. A 100% USA made full featured plier multi tool with magnacut for $230? $230 for a USA made knife with a cheaper steel is common and no one bats an eye.
I "upgraded" from my leatherman "Surge" to the new improved clone "Rocktol sk05 29-1" which does NOT use proprietary bits but has a 1/4" bit holder that will accept either single sided or double ended bits which I got for $50. Fit and finish is outrageous. Comes with extra double ended bits (like klein) and extra cutter blades with tool to replace them! Can't beat it. Note: I already had purchased the original "Surge" @ full price, plus extra proprietary bits (very expensive). However, I now EDC the Rocktol sko5 by choice. It accepts all my 1/4" bits, extensions, ratchets and holds them firmly. Note: main blade steel is fine although not the super steel but I use that blade for tasks that could ruin my regular knife. It resharpens easily, so there will be no permanent damage etc.
So I was just reading your comment on this video and I myself am looking into getting a good multi-tool and I was looking at the victorinox MX clip myself and I didn't know whether to buy the victorinox spirit MX clip or the victorinox MX clip, I like that the victorinox Swiss tools are chromium plated which helps to prevent rust because I live in Florida and it is very humid here and always raining so regular stainless steel tools can still rust out here so I was wanting to see if you can give me some input on your victorinox Swiss tool MX clip and wanted to know if it's very easy to use as far as getting the tools out of it? And why did you choose this one over the spirit MX clip? And looking forward to hearing your input on this And thank you.
I got mine and put them to work immediately. The elastomer bushings inside the cutter (to provide the lockup tactile feel) swelled and somewhat deformed within one week of use, making the opening and closing of this tool kinda sticky. The chip-sticking magnets seems ok-ish, nothing a few blasts of air and a solvent rag can't fix. Not that it's a bad tool, but with all the extra fancy stuff packed into it, it's definitely not the beater as Surge have always been... (yeah, my bad for wrecking open Skydrol type-V and BPTO 2197/2389 cans with this thing, knowing the high-temp stabilization additives' nasty properties, but someone else borrowed my whole toolbox away...like two whole miles away)
I love mine next to my surge I've carried for a few years now,got my Arc back in December,no complaints so far an cutters no issues either,I've cut softish hard bailer wire where your supposed to an no breaking, maybe I got one where they caught the issue,who knows anyway I don't abuse my tools,but if they come back with the older replaceable cutters I'll pick up a pair as a backup just in case.,never had an issue with my surge cutting hardwire either,I wished they had put the older eagle claw can opener on the Arc like the surge an a T-shank adapter since I don't really use the saw that much wouve been great in my opinion,I use my can opener on many occasions an while camping out. The blade steel is super big step up,I love it an how quickly you can flick it ioen
My uncle got me a Wave for Christmas back around 2000 or so. That was my only Leatherman tool until this year. I kept it in the car as a backup because it was inconvenient to carry. I had a pocket clip for it but it broke within a week, so it got put in its sheath and shoved in the glove compartment. Got the ARC earlier this week and have been carrying it every day since. It's still not my main blade, but it's definitely now my go-to multitool and "PC" blade for environments where my main blade will get the stink eye. Used to carry a Victorinox Cybertool for that role. This is definitely better. The pliers on the Cybertool suck, and while the bits were decent they're limited to the 4 that come with the knife, because that's all Victorinox makes. And while they aren't quite as proprietary as the flat bits that come with the Leatherman, you need to use a double-ended 4mm bit with a ball detent if you don't want the bit falling out, something that I've not been able to find anywhere. At least you can buy extra bits and adapters for the Leatherman.
I carried a craftsman knife from home depot every day for ~6 years and it finally wouldnt sharpen anymore, so I went to dicks (had 10% cashback) in late october 2023 and bought the arc and the biggest SOG folding pocket knife they sold. I wanted to compare EDCing a multitool vs a knife. Well I ended up keeping both and I use and carry both every day. My only complains with the arc is the cutter tips got destroyed cutting 14 ga 12v automotive wiring, and the blade is dented in 2 spots and I have no idea what caused that, but its still razor sharp. Being a farmer and owning my own logistics and service company I usually carry a ton of shit in a heavy tool bag all the time and I figured if i could condense some of that down into a small multitool I'd be much happier. I've replaced probably 10-15 full sized tools with the arc and it functions perfectly in its role. All I carry now is the arc, my SOG folder, a headlamp, knipex 12" plier wrench, and a milwaukee m12 fuel impact on my belt with a spider clip instead of a ~25-30 lb tool bag.
Just purchased my Arc today on Leathermans website. Even customized it with a motherboard design as I work in IT. I pretty much use my Wave+ everyday. It goes everywhere with me, and it's traveled all across the US. I look forward to the new one hand design. It's expensive, but considering I use it so much and I make good money, I can justify the cost. I have alot of nice tools, but realistically, I don't want to carry all of that crap around as a network engineer. A nice multitool and a small flashlight does the trick 90% of the time. Can't wait for my new toy!
I've used daily, the charge tt since release. Love that tool, over 10 years old and a champ to this day. The arc, with all the tools all on the outside, and the thumb grab for the blade, was enough for me. Even customized both sides of handles with pattern and text. Think it was ~$340 out the door. Love this thing, and expectanother 10 years of daily use out of it. HVACR technician, and most tools do not live long.
The only complaint I have atm is the price I‘d have to pay here in Germany. It’s 299€ or about 326 USD and I really don‘t know if it’s worth upgrading from my Surge. I like the tools and everything on it, but from my feeling its about 100€ too much. 😬 Would you still recommend it for about 326 USD ?
Great video. I still have some questions: - what happened to the leatherman 'leather organizer drama' ? Did they ever apologize? - is there a modern non locking version ? Or do I need to go back to the 90s and 00s for a legal version 😅 - would it be worth to have all tools in magnacut? 🤔
The Leatherman Arc is stamped USA. Can’t say that about any of my other Leatherman knives. Magnacut steel is going to be expensive at $100 per blade, so the rest of the knife is only really the same price as similar models. The difference is that this knife is made in the USA from US sourced parts, not Chinese bits assembled in the USA. So you are paying for that extra quality and labour charges and that is worthwhile for a professional tool.
It's just too expensive for me at $300 cad. But definitely looks to be a great tool. Still not entirely sure what the situation is with the redesign of the cutters and/or bad heat treatment.
Been running my leatherman wave 5 years. Just snapped my serated blade clean off and top off my main blade. Big sads. Time to replace. (Edit; user error. Just for the record. Blades are not pry bars.)
I have had you for many years, but being left-handed, it is hard for me to buy new tools. I guess I'll have to do that. What I always do is to learn how to use it with my right.
The micro driver doesn’t make any sense in my opinion. The bit adapter can be modified to hold a micro screwdriver as well. It would be a better use of space.
What a great video, very well presented, I’m not too familiar with Leatherman but I have had 1 or 2 over the years, I fancied getting a multi tool to compliment my Spyderco para 3 part serrated at my allotment so thought I might try one one the Arcs, I think I’ll pull the trigger now, cheers mate from England 👍🏻
I bought a wave+ in 2021 and was not happy with the quality of the tool. The knife blade and most of the other tools had funky grinds and the knife was ground like the milling machine slipped during production. Im scared to get another leatherman because they're so pricey for the lackluster quality.
I had the P4 and the joint seized up within a month and after looking on forums all people said was hit the join with a hammer to loosen back up but it never worked, so im wary about this new one pushing the loose open like a butterfly knife as I really need that in a set of pliers if I shift from a standard set of side cutters,
You know I get this is expensive but everyone has stories pf Leatherman passed down through generations, and with the 25+ warrantyz it'll last that long. What's the price divided by 25 years? 10 dollars?
I really don’t care about magnacut. Never had an issue with the steel on my old Leathermans. That said, I rarely use the blades on my leathermans because they don’t deploy as quickly or easily as a good folder. I really like that thumb stud on the arc and I’d like to see that improvement made across the line regardless of what steel the tool uses.
I think the engineering cost justified the price- the improvements require a lot of work, and tight tolerances, and that work has a price. Still, it's out of my price range, so my Wave+ is still my edc multitool. It's still a perfectly good tool.
The Arc seems great. On video and watching it handled, it seems like the Free system works well. Ease of use is what makes the best tools worth the extra money. Between that and the Magnacut, it doesn't seem that expensive on the face. Some color options, as the signal has, would be nice. Maybe they will come out with some? That 40th anniversary white and brown/tan edition looked great, even if white is kind of a terrible choice for a tool
How about the fact it doesn’t come with the full set of bits or a bit extender? Seems like they could have made a small concession like that for the $230 price tag.
The Arc is basicly the Wavr+ on steroids. I've carried the Wave+ as my edc for years now and have always loved it. The Arc with its premium blade steel and every tools accessible one handed is just a game changer. Worth every penny.
I think the main reason any company shys away from a direct communication with a community who purchases their pproducts, is to avoid the problems faced in a "Design by comittee" situation... At the end of the day, aside from issues relating to unexpected failure, the company knows you can't make everyone happy, and short of offering a completely modular multitool, where each customer can pick and choose what comes on theirs, they know they will have issues such as these... Must remember, they are an old company, not a youthful and exuberant fresh face in the industry of products that appeal to the EDC enthusaist.
![Best Damn EDC [Taylor Martin]](http://yt3.ggpht.com/C23xT4qXAgWe_wPaHXS9N0UNliYR1ZaNyf2qXLCt2WaRpVKD802vEiMatltiOU_6T3ohYkQK4g=s48-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj)
When I win the lottery, I plan on buying the Leatherman Arc, Sog Pentagon, Uncharted Survival Packs, a nissan frontier 2022+, and a papa johns pizza 🍕 That's the dream my friends
I edc my leatherman wave+ every day. I went to a wedding last week instead of bringing a date. I brought my Leatherman wave plus That's how much I love it🤠
You sound like fun
@@karmadel786fun and prepared
The Wave+1
I have two wives, my human wife and my Wave+. I spend my work days with the Wave+ and the evenings are spent with the wife, weekends are split between the two. I don’t think the Arc is enough to cheat on my Wave+ especially at that price.
Love my wave + it never yells at me like my wife.
It's pretty obvious that it was a bad batch of (replaceable) cutters. Doesn’t ruin the tool or brand for me. As an electrician, I've had certain "high end" tools fail before, but it doesnt mean the brand sucks. After carrying the Arc for a few weeks now, I'd say it fits my every day needs perfectly. Easy one-handed opperation, perfect blend of tools for me, magnacut goodness, pocket carry-able. I'm thinking my dad needs one for Christmas. Cheers.
They redesigned the shape of the cutters. I wouldn't call it a bad batch.
Yes. This "bad batch" is a redesign that's been in play for about a year, from what I found.
Poor choice of words on my part. I guess what I meant was that only certain models with these particular cutters are failing, not the entire Leatherman brand.
Been carrying it for a few weeks. Wasn't really a multitool guy. The ARC changed my mind about that. I'm amazed at how much I actually use it. Kudos to Leatherman. The ARC is a home run.
So my dad is an accountant and can't even screw a lightbulb or figure out technology at all, but in his job he gets to meet a ehole bunch of companies and they give him gifts, that he ends up giving me later on.
A month ago he asked me if I knew what a leatherman was and showed my the arc he recieved as a casual gift.
Got me a free arc, thanks to my clueless dad (well he can count and I cannot)
I feel sorry for your mom
@@Whatyoutakinboutnothing to feel bad about, if he's casually getting an arc as a gift, the man must be making some money. He can pay someone to change those bulbs for him.
I can’t give up my charge. I love that serrated blade/gut hook.
ye going form charge to arc, because I wanted the bigger sizers and outside screwdriver, but I think the guthook wil be missed,
My charge tti broke on several places including the gut hook luckily it was replaced by leatherman but still big oof
I have a good feeling about the durability of the Arc. I have had the P4 since its release date (2019) and have used it semi heavily. Had no problems with it what so ever!
I now have the Arc for about 4 weeks now and in terms of tools it is the perfect multi-tool for me.
Before the Arc I had a premium knife and my P4 with me (used it as a beater knife). Now the blade of my Arc is my premium knife and I have a cheap knife with me to use as a beater.😂
I had a P2 and absolutely thrashed it in the military. It’s been back to Leatherman for repair twice. I got the arc and it definitely feels a bit heavier duty (especially the awl and pry bar).
I got an Arc after using a Wave for the last 18 years or so. It’s perfect for me working as a facilities mgr. The only negatives I’ve had were the tension on both the large and micro driver bit holders were weak. I lost the micro driver somewhere the first day, had to replace it with one from a Wave. It was easy to increase tension on the micro driver, a bit more challenging on the bit driver.
The serrated blade with gut hook was by far my favorite tool after the regular blade and pliers on all my leathermans. The price isn’t a deal breaker but the no serrated blade gut hook combo is
If you have ever carried a surge on your hip at work 5 days a week 12 hours each day . Huge difference , even though its a minuscule amount of weight difference . Only thing ive noticed with my ARC is it has a bit of side to side wiggle vs my surge is rock solid
I think that wiggle is a concession for having one handed opening pliers. At least on mine, the pliers are solid, just the handles wiggle.
@thomagg yea my apologies I should have been more specific , your correct it is the handles I was referring too . Have a great Thanksgiving
I've had my ARC for about 3 weeks carrying it everyday to work and around the house and I have zero complaints. As a lefty I love the Free platform and the thumb stud makes opening the main blade all that much easier. Great video as always!
Would like to see leatherman make the. Wave surge charge and signal with magnacut blades
@@erickang8894 agreed
I agree with you on that, as lefty I need a compatible multi tool to use
I switched my P4 and ARC knives to work left handed. I love it!
I like this kind of video a lot. Here we have some comparison between the recent series of a tool and former ones. Some history about it, where it came from and where it is going. Where are some changes and whether they are beneficial or more of a design flaw.
EDC lives from comparison and discussion, please keep it up this way!
Only real complaint is lack of ruler. I do miss the hook from the Charge, but the easier to access, and better, scissors makes up for it some. I've used the hammer several times too, that's to have.
I went from a rebar I carried forever to an arc, and it is amazing having all the tools accessible without having to open the pliers. The rebar now lives in my backpack
I’m active duty military and I did edc a gerber mp600 issued of corse and I broke the slide mechanism so I took it upon myself to get myself a leatherman super tool 300 as it seemed more durable and I love it. My main blade is a Benchmade bailout and a cheap pocket flashlight makes up my edc. I love these edc videos as I never feel like going to tool issue to get the “proper” tool and I feel like I have everything I need
I've had my Tti since it was about 120 CAD, over 20 years now. Still rock solid, love the hand feel, no reason to replace it till I lose or break it
I have 20 year-old wave Leatherman. It has been perfect for all my needs. The holster for it even has a side Component to attach a small mac flashlight.
The Arc is a great tool but I'm still very happy with my P4. The many flat screwdrivers are also more useful than expected and sometimes work with Allen screws and small cross screws. For this you need the bitkit on the Arc. If I want to use the bitkit on the P4, it can also be done with the adapter. The file is small but works and the "awl" also makes good holes. In the end it is a large file against a serrated blade. and when I cut my apple I won't miss any Magnacut. So it has advantages and disadvantages and I think the P4 is still at the top and the Arc is not a must have.
I love my Wave+ and I haven’t replaced it yet and I carry it every damn day. I can’t justify replacing it.
They still need to have a build your own model online. Pick the tools you want and get an extremely personalized leatherman
Indeed, custom is the future, I hope.
I thought they did
Thank you so much for this video. I am retired and have carried many knives since I was 8 years old. I have a Grandson getting ready to go off to Lineman's School. When he graduates, I want to give him the best tool that he will use every day. (EDK) I think you helped to make my choice Chrystal clear...I still have my Grandfather's SAK which is in pristine condition...Great tools are worth every dime you spend.
Maybe upgrading when the wirecutters are fixed. Aslong I stick to my charge tti or Swisstool.
I love the arc! It’s a proud addition to my collection of about 100 leathermans, the file is so much better than the wave/charge series, way more aggressive.. although I still carry my charge everyday for work because the magnets on the arc just do not go well as a fabricator/welder. Also find it hard not having a serrated blade
I kind of take issue with the topic of the cutters. I ordered my ARC on 17 Oct...first day available. It took about 10 days before I actually got it. About a week after having it, I was in my garage doing 'stuff in the garage things' and my cutters sheared one one side. WTH? I sent an e-mail off to Leatherman Customer Service. This was before I found out the this was a 'thing'. While on their website, I ordered (and paid for) replacement cutters. I have yet to even get an acknowledgement from them relating to my email. Kind of BS if you ask me! Aaron
Improving the blade and making it easier and more satisfying to deploy and close has actually made me start carrying it as my dedicated knife. I used to EDC a Surge on my belt + a knife in my pocket, but recent job changes has not required such a heavy duty tool on me. I tried a Wave with the pocket clip for a bit but it wasn't for me. Arc however has been amazing. Knife is significantly improved over the Wave, cliping it back to my pants is also an improved experience. The one handed nature of the tools has also been great.
My edc multitool is the Sog Powerpint i love this thing bc its small has big pliers 2 knives an ale a file - + drivers it can hold bits siccors rope cutter and a can opener
I’m a retailer and my farming customers like the hook knife on the charge for cutting baler twine. I’m not sure how the scissors will work well in that scenario.
We need a new generation Juice series
Yessssssss
Unfortunately when you ask for a high quality blade steel the price will go up but in this case along with the design adjustments I think it sounds like it’s well worth it like you said. I hope they do use this on other models.
Surge is the best because of the t-shank adapter. The blade is common steel but its very easy to sharpen anywhere. Not to mention that if you intend to cut dirty or gross stuff you can equip a kukri style blade (they sell it as rubber and vinyl-linoleum cutter) in the t-shank, use it and save the main blade for food.
It’s become my edc since getting it! My one critique is that I personally don’t have a need for a saw in my life. I’d have preferred the serrated blade on the P4 over the saw. That’d really have made it perfect for me, but I understand why a saw is on the tool
I wonder if you can replace the saw in your Arc with the other tool from your P4?
@@cornpop7805 you can! Ya just gotta shuffle some of the middle tools around so everything closes and moves smoothly.
I also just don’t know how I feel about my P4 being partially put together in my collection, even tho I’m probably never gonna carry it again since the Arc exists and I have two. Lol
I've actually practiced and gotten fairly decent at getting to every tool one handed on my charge tti. I actually just am starting to prefer toughness in my knives, especially in multitools. I am considering even swapping the S30v blade to a standard 420hc just for the toughness as I always have a main blade on me and having a tougher blade really is convienet. Even the price i dont mind paying because its still not too bad for magnacut in reality. The hardest part about the arc for me is not having a serrated blade.
For all my tools I took out the cutters and put in the EOD cutters, need to do some cutting to make them fit but I love them.
I just ordered one and I can't wait!
I went from the SideKick to the WingMan and have been generally pleased with those tools for the last 10 yrs.
I HATED the file on both models, so the Arc's file is exciting to me. I know there are lots of models to upgrade from the Wingman. But, my main requirements are pocket clip and one hand accessible knife, and I didn't want the extra bulk without good reason.
In short, I've been waiting for something exceptional, and it appears to have arrived in the Arc.
To be clear. I've never had much issue with the 420HC steel of my Wingman because it sharpens so easily with a pocket diamond steel. But, it also dulls very quickly.
I'm interested to see what it takes to sharpen the Arc's MagnaCut blade.
I have a signal, in the blue and pink. I've used it probably every day since my grandmother got it for me, I think 3 years now, maybe 4? The hammer end is so useful.
What does the hammer end up getting used for?
Great summary/review. I’ve had a tti for years and always wondered what I’d get next but nothing, until the ARC, got me even remotely curious. Now that I have the ARC I really appreciate the ease of use/opening/closing/fluidity, plus being able to access all of the tools while it’s in the closed position. Sure, it’s a little expensive and Leatherman needs to improve their laser/etching/customization (I had to send my 1st and 2nd ARC back because they didn’t get the engraving right, but to their credit, they did take care of things), but so far it’s a great tool. Now to see how durable it is…time will tell.
Most any Magnacut knife starts at $150+. Generally more. Another $70 and you get all the other tools? How are people arguing value here?
I have the ARC and it's my favorite multitool ever
I know obviously this is an ARC review however I’m contemplating instead either the Super Tool 300 or a Surge. Anyone have an opinion between these two what would be the best choice?! I should add I already own a Wave and a Charge TTI. Thanks.
If they made this version in an S30v to bring the price down I’d snag one instantly. Magnacut is nice but I normally do stuff with my leatherman that I wouldn’t do with a magnacut knife lol
Like what?
@@Southernboy302 whatever’s gotta get done lol. Pry scrape cut something gross. Magnacut will do it all but when it starts coming to cutting tin or metal such a hard blade gets me nervous for chipping
Sure, that is a fine price for Magnacut, but at the same time, it's a tool, something that some people will use every day. And with carrying it every day there is a non-trivial chance of it getting lost, stolen, broken, etc. THAT is when the price tag will hurt the most.
I bought one two days ago and had a particularly busy day today, using it on many occasions throughout the day. At first, I wondered whether it was worth it as I have a perfectly good wave plus, but having spent the day with it, I realised that having access to all of the tools on the outside was everything for me. What I didn’t like about the wave is that I have to open the multitool in order to use all of the other more minor tools. With the arc, I can access everything without having to go near the pliers. For me, the arc is absolutely the best multitool leatherman has released to date. My SAK won’t get much of a look in on minor jobs now
Great military discount, just received mine today for $160.
all agree with you! I personnaly think that is one of the best Leatherman at this time. Best tool combination I've could wish to have on my Leatherman. Plus a Magnacut blade make it just the best damn edc Leatherman to me.
I haven’t got around to my video yet but I agree with all of these points! Mine has been in my pocket everyday since it arrived and I’m a huge fan of the tool set, blade steel, and I think the price is justified. Great video as always man!
From what I've read single handed opening blades are now illegal in Canada. Guess that includes my Charge which is over 10 years old and any number of small (often red) hand tools at Home Depot etc.
Honestly, I would have loved this tool just as much without a magnacut blade, simply because it finally has the toolset I've wanted for years!
Can't disagree there!
I have a Leatherman Rebar. I've cut 12ga romex before no problem. Just something to get you out of a bind. Not for daily heavy use. I must say the blades on the tool are surgical sharp good steel
Magnacut Steel is pretty much just Wagu for terms. I'm not sold on it fully, not for the cost, showing caution.
My ideal Leatherman would be the Rebar, but with a pocket clip. It’s frustrating that they don’t put a pocket clip on all or at least their smaller/lighter models.
make a hybrid, use a wave half for an outside opening blade and pocket clip and then leave the other half as a rebar, they just bolt right together. i did it with a surge and its a better tool than anything from the factory including this thing.
I chose the Charge TTI+ specifically for the s30v main blade steel. I can probably see myself choosing the Arc when this tool finally wears out
Always wanted better steel, but i never had a problem with the blade on my surge. Plus with the removable diamond file it was ALWAYS sharp. I stopped carrying it a while ago as I'm not in the field as much and it weighs a lot. That Tshank tool is the best in their arsenal
I never understood having a diamond file on a multi tool when you can't use it to sharpen its own knife.
You can remove it
I ended up getting the wave+ as its cheaper and that handy ruler is a must for me. Sometimes you just need to gage the size of something on the fly and wave+ is perfect for that.
In the UK it’s £260 which is around $320 😬
I usey leatherman surge everyday at work. Was interested it what the arc has to offer. Biggest thing i love on the surge is the full size pliers and full size scissors.
I didn’t pay any attention for years. Partly because I built a “Re-Charge” a few years ago and it did what I needed of it. So imagine my surprise when I looked recently and saw all the changes that occurred in the several years I hadn’t looked.
It also isn’t going to replace my CQC-6. It’s too handy, whichever of the new Leathermans I choose.
Muchas gracias por el video. Estoy en proceso de comprar mi ARC estos días. Me ayudó mucho su información.
That file has been one of the most impressive things on the Arc for me. I recently used it on some metal working projects and it shaved down some steel and cut through a bolt quite easily. This has replaced a plain knife as my pocket EDC.
The price is completely reasonable. A 100% USA made full featured plier multi tool with magnacut for $230? $230 for a USA made knife with a cheaper steel is common and no one bats an eye.
I "upgraded" from my leatherman "Surge" to the new improved clone "Rocktol sk05 29-1" which does NOT use proprietary bits but has a 1/4" bit holder that will accept either single sided or double ended bits which I got for $50.
Fit and finish is outrageous.
Comes with extra double ended bits (like klein) and extra cutter blades with tool to replace them!
Can't beat it.
Note:
I already had purchased the original "Surge" @ full price, plus extra proprietary bits (very expensive).
However, I now EDC the Rocktol sko5 by choice. It accepts all my 1/4" bits, extensions, ratchets and holds them firmly.
Note: main blade steel is fine although not the super steel but I use that blade for tasks that could ruin my regular knife. It resharpens easily, so there will be no permanent damage etc.
I really like my victorinox Mx clip it still has all the tools I need but it’s still in a somewhat small form factor and it’s pretty strong
So I was just reading your comment on this video and I myself am looking into getting a good multi-tool and I was looking at the victorinox MX clip myself and I didn't know whether to buy the victorinox spirit MX clip or the victorinox MX clip, I like that the victorinox Swiss tools are chromium plated which helps to prevent rust because I live in Florida and it is very humid here and always raining so regular stainless steel tools can still rust out here so I was wanting to see if you can give me some input on your victorinox Swiss tool MX clip and wanted to know if it's very easy to use as far as getting the tools out of it? And why did you choose this one over the spirit MX clip? And looking forward to hearing your input on this And thank you.
I got mine and put them to work immediately. The elastomer bushings inside the cutter (to provide the lockup tactile feel) swelled and somewhat deformed within one week of use, making the opening and closing of this tool kinda sticky. The chip-sticking magnets seems ok-ish, nothing a few blasts of air and a solvent rag can't fix. Not that it's a bad tool, but with all the extra fancy stuff packed into it, it's definitely not the beater as Surge have always been...
(yeah, my bad for wrecking open Skydrol type-V and BPTO 2197/2389 cans with this thing, knowing the high-temp stabilization additives' nasty properties, but someone else borrowed my whole toolbox away...like two whole miles away)
I love mine next to my surge I've carried for a few years now,got my Arc back in December,no complaints so far an cutters no issues either,I've cut softish hard bailer wire where your supposed to an no breaking, maybe I got one where they caught the issue,who knows anyway I don't abuse my tools,but if they come back with the older replaceable cutters I'll pick up a pair as a backup just in case.,never had an issue with my surge cutting hardwire either,I wished they had put the older eagle claw can opener on the Arc like the surge an a T-shank adapter since I don't really use the saw that much wouve been great in my opinion,I use my can opener on many occasions an while camping out. The blade steel is super big step up,I love it an how quickly you can flick it ioen
i really want one gonna wait until they release non coated ones
I think most guys use the pocket clip on the tool and carry it everywhere as there main knife
I'm really interested in the arc. I'm just looking at my charge plus and trying to justify it.
My uncle got me a Wave for Christmas back around 2000 or so. That was my only Leatherman tool until this year. I kept it in the car as a backup because it was inconvenient to carry. I had a pocket clip for it but it broke within a week, so it got put in its sheath and shoved in the glove compartment.
Got the ARC earlier this week and have been carrying it every day since. It's still not my main blade, but it's definitely now my go-to multitool and "PC" blade for environments where my main blade will get the stink eye. Used to carry a Victorinox Cybertool for that role. This is definitely better.
The pliers on the Cybertool suck, and while the bits were decent they're limited to the 4 that come with the knife, because that's all Victorinox makes. And while they aren't quite as proprietary as the flat bits that come with the Leatherman, you need to use a double-ended 4mm bit with a ball detent if you don't want the bit falling out, something that I've not been able to find anywhere. At least you can buy extra bits and adapters for the Leatherman.
Excellent overview! I I agree the toolset is excellent on this. I'm just kinda pissed it got leaked like 2 months after I bought my P4 lol
I carried a craftsman knife from home depot every day for ~6 years and it finally wouldnt sharpen anymore, so I went to dicks (had 10% cashback) in late october 2023 and bought the arc and the biggest SOG folding pocket knife they sold. I wanted to compare EDCing a multitool vs a knife. Well I ended up keeping both and I use and carry both every day. My only complains with the arc is the cutter tips got destroyed cutting 14 ga 12v automotive wiring, and the blade is dented in 2 spots and I have no idea what caused that, but its still razor sharp.
Being a farmer and owning my own logistics and service company I usually carry a ton of shit in a heavy tool bag all the time and I figured if i could condense some of that down into a small multitool I'd be much happier. I've replaced probably 10-15 full sized tools with the arc and it functions perfectly in its role. All I carry now is the arc, my SOG folder, a headlamp, knipex 12" plier wrench, and a milwaukee m12 fuel impact on my belt with a spider clip instead of a ~25-30 lb tool bag.
Just purchased my Arc today on Leathermans website. Even customized it with a motherboard design as I work in IT. I pretty much use my Wave+ everyday. It goes everywhere with me, and it's traveled all across the US. I look forward to the new one hand design. It's expensive, but considering I use it so much and I make good money, I can justify the cost. I have alot of nice tools, but realistically, I don't want to carry all of that crap around as a network engineer. A nice multitool and a small flashlight does the trick 90% of the time. Can't wait for my new toy!
I've used daily, the charge tt since release. Love that tool, over 10 years old and a champ to this day.
The arc, with all the tools all on the outside, and the thumb grab for the blade, was enough for me. Even customized both sides of handles with pattern and text. Think it was ~$340 out the door. Love this thing, and expectanother 10 years of daily use out of it.
HVACR technician, and most tools do not live long.
The only complaint I have atm is the price I‘d have to pay here in Germany. It’s 299€ or about 326 USD and I really don‘t know if it’s worth upgrading from my Surge. I like the tools and everything on it, but from my feeling its about 100€ too much. 😬
Would you still recommend it for about 326 USD ?
Curious. Can you left hand flick the knife open with the thumb stud?
Great video.
I still have some questions:
- what happened to the leatherman 'leather organizer drama' ? Did they ever apologize?
- is there a modern non locking version ? Or do I need to go back to the 90s and 00s for a legal version 😅
- would it be worth to have all tools in magnacut? 🤔
The Leatherman Arc is stamped USA. Can’t say that about any of my other Leatherman knives. Magnacut steel is going to be expensive at $100 per blade, so the rest of the knife is only really the same price as similar models. The difference is that this knife is made in the USA from US sourced parts, not Chinese bits assembled in the USA. So you are paying for that extra quality and labour charges and that is worthwhile for a professional tool.
It's just too expensive for me at $300 cad. But definitely looks to be a great tool. Still not entirely sure what the situation is with the redesign of the cutters and/or bad heat treatment.
Been running my leatherman wave 5 years.
Just snapped my serated blade clean off and top off my main blade.
Big sads. Time to replace.
(Edit; user error. Just for the record. Blades are not pry bars.)
I have loved my Wave+, but my buddy used his military discount to get the ARC for $160 so I had him grab me one too! 😁
In Australia the Arc is $499.
I still bought it. And its the best Leatherman yet.
Using it at work and its bloody Awesome
I have had you for many years, but being left-handed, it is hard for me to buy new tools. I guess I'll have to do that. What I always do is to learn how to use it with my right.
The micro driver doesn’t make any sense in my opinion. The bit adapter can be modified to hold a micro screwdriver as well. It would be a better use of space.
Great balanced review, I’m obsessed with mine…I was previously obsessed with my Wave+…ARC is that much better for my everyday non-hardcore uses.
What a great video, very well presented, I’m not too familiar with Leatherman but I have had 1 or 2 over the years, I fancied getting a multi tool to compliment my Spyderco para 3 part serrated at my allotment so thought I might try one one the Arcs, I think I’ll pull the trigger now, cheers mate from England 👍🏻
I bought a wave+ in 2021 and was not happy with the quality of the tool. The knife blade and most of the other tools had funky grinds and the knife was ground like the milling machine slipped during production. Im scared to get another leatherman because they're so pricey for the lackluster quality.
Curl is still the sweet spot tool wise for me. Carry it over my TTI and Rebar daily.
Never heard of your channel. Currently watching. Still like my charge+ g10 best. Own all Leatherman’s
I had the P4 and the joint seized up within a month and after looking on forums all people said was hit the join with a hammer to loosen back up but it never worked, so im wary about this new one pushing the loose open like a butterfly knife as I really need that in a set of pliers if I shift from a standard set of side cutters,
You know I get this is expensive but everyone has stories pf Leatherman passed down through generations, and with the 25+ warrantyz it'll last that long. What's the price divided by 25 years? 10 dollars?
The Leatherman ARC is the first Leatherman I would want to get. I've had a lot of other brands and always passed up Leatherman.
I really don’t care about magnacut. Never had an issue with the steel on my old Leathermans. That said, I rarely use the blades on my leathermans because they don’t deploy as quickly or easily as a good folder. I really like that thumb stud on the arc and I’d like to see that improvement made across the line regardless of what steel the tool uses.
Only leatherman I have is a skeletool so it's work it too me also the magnacut does it for me
I think the engineering cost justified the price- the improvements require a lot of work, and tight tolerances, and that work has a price.
Still, it's out of my price range, so my Wave+ is still my edc multitool. It's still a perfectly good tool.
The Arc seems great. On video and watching it handled, it seems like the Free system works well. Ease of use is what makes the best tools worth the extra money. Between that and the Magnacut, it doesn't seem that expensive on the face. Some color options, as the signal has, would be nice. Maybe they will come out with some? That 40th anniversary white and brown/tan edition looked great, even if white is kind of a terrible choice for a tool
I still use the Skeletool. I don’t need a file or scissors. I’m good with my Skeletool and the bit kit.
Always go to your reviews before I grab my gear, dude.
Keep it up🤘🏽👍🏽👍🏽
How about the fact it doesn’t come with the full set of bits or a bit extender? Seems like they could have made a small concession like that for the $230 price tag.
I don't disagree. It was weird to include just half a bit kit
Yep. I’m just an average Joe, so I don’t geek out on blade steel, but this tool set is absolutely perfect.
The Arc is basicly the Wavr+ on steroids. I've carried the Wave+ as my edc for years now and have always loved it. The Arc with its premium blade steel and every tools accessible one handed is just a game changer. Worth every penny.
I think the main reason any company shys away from a direct communication with a community who purchases their pproducts, is to avoid the problems faced in a "Design by comittee" situation...
At the end of the day, aside from issues relating to unexpected failure, the company knows you can't make everyone happy, and short of offering a completely modular multitool, where each customer can pick and choose what comes on theirs, they know they will have issues such as these...
Must remember, they are an old company, not a youthful and exuberant fresh face in the industry of products that appeal to the EDC enthusaist.
Good review and explanations. Yeah long gone are the days of picking up a Leatherman for $20-30