I carried the Leatherman PST for most of my military career and only picked up the Wingman when I lost the PST during a training exercise. The Wingman has been my EDC ever since, and sees plenty of use in my current civilian job.
This Wingman is my most carried multitool that works for me. I don’t use the knife on it, because I already have a dedicated knife on me, so it doesn’t bother me. The scissors on it is very useful, so is the wire cutter/stripper. I can’t knock it, it’s compact, useful, and light. It knocked my supertool out of my edc, because of the weight issue. But I might give that wave a try in the future, since it’s been on my list for quite sometime.
Pro: decent 40 dollar tool even though it used to be 30 dollars. Con: It doesn't have what the 120 dollar tool from the same company has. I feel your pain. I was SOOOO disappointed when I realized my Ford Ranger was not on par with the F350 King Ranch I could have bought at three times the price. Ford...you really need to step up your game and start making Rangers better!
Bought one of these used for $25 as an alternative to my Charge TTi for use around the office/lab where I work as well as around the homestead. There are definitely changes I would make to the design but I FAR prefer it to the Charge for EDC. I REALLY like the anvil-cutters on the pliers vs the by-pass on my charge - these penetrate quickly from both sides and complete the cut more easily both on wire, line, and thick-walled tubing that I use in the lab. They are highly efficient. I really like that the pliers are spring loaded and feel this is a significant handicap for many other Leathermans, just as it is a handicap for scissors that are not spring-loaded. Having had these, I will not buy a multitool WITHOUT spring-loaded pliers. I do agree that the handle is quite uncomfortable to bear down on due to the thin, sharp wall - I plan to soften that with my dremel, an easy fix and i am glad that they at least thought to round it over. I also prefer the partial-serration on the knife: cutting thick-walled tubing as well as garden-hose, cord/rope, etc. I find that the serrations penetrate more efficiently for faster/cleaner cutting whereas the plain-edge dulls more easily. One place where I do like a plain-edge is opening bags and packages and for that the plain-edge end of the blade is well suited. I do not typically need both a short plain-edge and a short serrated-edge as is found on my Charge. The scissors, while somewhat tricky to deploy, are quicker to deploy and more usable than the tiny set on my Charge, and I actually use them quite a bit for trimming threads and other delicate cutting. I do not use the can-opener for opening cans, i use it as a cap-lifter and wish it were that but am fine with what it is, and the wire-stripper works. The file also works and i am glad that it is not any finer, an excellent deburring tool. The fine screw-driver, as you mentioned, is a great narrow pry-tool and that is also how I tend to use it, and i also use the ruler for fine width-measurements on occasion. The package-opener was actually a major selling-point for me as I owned the Gerber Dime first and found this blade very VERY useful for a number of unconventional tasks as well as just cleaning under nails and opening clamshell packages. In my work, I am often connecting bits of tubing to barbed attachments as well as removing them, and this tool allows me to make a short cut through the thick wall of the tubing and then slip under and pry the tubing lose from the barbs and slip it free - for this purpose, the Wingman cutter works much better than the Dime and provides adequate thickness for the prying portion of the process. The pocket-clip: I disagree about its placement, I wish it were positioned to be as close to the seam of the pocket as possible for right-pocket carry. As it is, it sits well away from the seam and is more likely to catch on things as well as being less aesthetic in presentation. As it is, I will not carry the tool in my pocket but clipped to my belt instead. One thing I REALLY like about this tool vs the Charge is that *** I can actually carry it with the clip and it will never flip open! *** I tried carrying my Charge by the clip and abandoned the idea very quickly as the tool continually flipped open in pocket and became a hazard, regardless of trying to mount it to use the seam of my pocket to hold it closed or not, and I tried all four main pockets for carry. I am considering drill holes in the Charge to accommodate an alternate clip that will carry correctly inverted so that the handles cannot ever unfold by force of gravity, which is the way it should have been designed from day one. As it is, the Charge pocket-clip is useless, and THAT is the main reason (even beyond the difference in thickness between these two tools) why I EDC the Wingman and leave the Charge in a pack. The slip-joint tools work fine for me, never had a problem and am happy if it means less weight/footprint for the tool. In the other handle I find myself quite disappointed that they did not include the bit-driver present in so many other models and I hope they will remedy this in a future version of the Wingman - just replace that thick flat-head/pry-tool and phillips with a bit driver, or..... and here is my real wish... I wish that Leatherman would re-make the Wingman with *** a quarter-inch bit-driver accessible from the outside of the tool *** That's it, the main thing (other than the pocket-clip position/style) that I would change on the Wingman. I was looking into getting the Gerber MP1 MRO just for this special feature (along with the other tools being accessible without opening the pliers) but honestly prefer the Wingman's small footprint and ease of carry and also tool selection vs the MRO for EDC. Why-oh-why is there not a 'build-your-own multitool' service from one of these companies?? Good video, thanks for taking the time.
I'm a Fire alarm tech, mainly focusing in inspection. I rarely use tools anymore but I have this in my pocket organizer and it hasn't let me down when I needed it. If you are going to use it every single day multiple times I would probably still Suggest upgrading to a wave.
Love your reviews nick thanks for all of the work you do. For me the wingman has worked incredibly well for the last two years. I’m in different situation than most though. I carry mine at work as a commercial electrician... most of the time I’m wearing my full 25 pound tool belt. If I need to drop my tools to climb into a crawl space or above an elevator car I try to bring just the tools I need from my tool belt. Sometimes I forget something and the wingman is always there to save the day. I’ve ground down the serrations on mine so that it has a full plain edge with a weird little recurve but I keep it hair popping sharp. If anyone else is in my same situation I recommend it, not that I have the credibility of nick, but coming from someone who does carry a full tool belt every work day the shortcomings of the wingman are not an issue for me.
As I watched this review everything that was a criticism seemed just fine to me because I'm in a situation like yours. I do not currently own this multi-tool or any like it and I've been looking for reviews (on all kinds of multi-tools) because these aren't sold in any stores for hundreds of miles around me (remote location). Yes I have a bag full of tools with me every day, but not directly on my person at all times because you just can't tolerate having everything on your belt at all times. This looks small enough that I won't notice it much in my pocket where my basic folding utility knife sits and should do a lot more for me in the same occupied amount of space. The sharp edges for the pliers might not be great but I feel like I could probably round them off or epoxy on a barrier strip.
I love this multi tool. When I had my first, I used it all the time. I'm buying it again as lost first one and miss it a lot. The scissors are nice and sharp, the knife stayed sharp. The wire cutters were handy and so is the cross head. I didn't find it painful to use at all, especially compared to cheap knock off multi tools. Using it for work and around home I just don't have an issue with it for the price.
Yup, went to go get me a leatherman yesterday and wal... RAN away from the display case haha. Was going for the super tool, which was originally cheaper than the rebar, and it now costs 98 dollars.
when i first saw these they were $20 on Amazon. i bought a fair amount of them for other people at the time due to the value after getting the first one. went to recommend them later and they were like $50. i guess they realized they were way too cheap initially.
Great detail. I haven’t used my Wingman much but at home I use old steak knives as package openers. I’m looking forward to having a package opener tool now because it can reduce wear and tear on the knife blade and also keep it free from glue and tape residue and other crap. I guess I’ll see if that actually makes a difference though. I suppose every tool that collects unwanted debris needs to be cleaned after usage. Also another thought about the package opener is it seems like a good idea to use the smallest blade that will work for the job. Using a larger blade on a package, particularly if it’s not a sharp enough blade, can result in injury if the user is careless, pushing the blade in the wrong direction, using too much force, etc.
I like to carry the leatherman rebar. its about the same size and thickness as the wingman. It's nice, flat and smooth so it feels pretty good in the pocket. It doesn't have a pocket clip, but there is an aftermarket sheath or you can use a neomag caddy. That works well for me to keep it in place. I use to carry a charge, but it's just to thick in the pocket. Yes none of the tools are accessible from the outside on the rebar, but the only tool I use frequent enough to warrant quick deployment is a knife. Like most others here, I carry a folding knife as well.
Nice review. Switched to this mainly because of the spring in the pliers. It is a must have after needing a free hand and not having to use the other hand to open it up all the time.
The Leatherman sidekick is nearly identical, but for me, has some slightly different/more useful tools, and comes with a lanyard ring that can be tucked away. Check it out.
I modified my Wingman by grinding the package opener down to an awl and putting an edge on the big, useless flathead screwdriver to turn it into a mini wood chisel. If you do much bushcraft or woodwork, these are useful tools to have, and as far as I know there is no production Leatherman with a chisel on it. I still prefer the Sidekick because of the saw and the plain edge blade, but I like my modded Wingman more than I did before.
Thanks for the review. As always! I subscribe to hear your opinion, not necessarily what I might think. No point in that. The Wingman and the Sidekick are light duty tools. The non-locking inside tools, in closed handle position really don't present a problem. So who feels hotspots on a light duty tool that is not for giant frozen bolts anyway? The wire cutters work on my house wiring and simple lamp or appliance rewiring. But I am no electrician, so more than that I can't say. The Wave has no awl, wastes space on the micro driver with soft steel that distorts and breaks, and the wire cutters are not exactly stellar. Certainly not compared to SOGs. Many reviewers love a light duty multi tool with spring loaded pliers. We all talk too much as if our multitools are replacement for dedicated tools. Or that they must all be compared to the Wave or Charge. Arguing price is fair, though, as a $20 or $30 difference between models is almost trivial for most who only buy and use one multitool, or maybe two. I have around 35, unnecessarily, and for fun. But there are so many models that we need to recommend according to potential needs, and based on LONG-TERM use. Durability is everything. I have 20+ year old Leatherman and Victorinox multitools. That 420HC, heat treated well, is not inferior. Yes better steel would be nice, but only for some. The heavy duty multitools for example. Buck proved that heat treatment is the primary issue for 420HC, anyway. So if someone cuts up, or opens cartons all day, or that hard shipping strap, both of which are very hard on blades, they ought to pick up a sturdy box-cutter with cheap replaceable blades. That wouldn't be suitable for Wingman. But incidentally in the course of other work, Wingman works. So Wingman has now a several years history of usage, and many reports from a wide variety of users. My verdict: •Light use--Very good. •Heavy use--A big NO. •Middling to slightly heavy use--Mostly no, so why chance it. Especially not frequent daily usage on the job. That suggests the need for a dedicated tool. Comparing to LM Squirt, well, that is an excellent light/very light tool. It screams more Altoid prepper tin, that deltoid ripper men. Multitools are not just one tool set, any one of which can be compared as equivalent to any other. Wingman has many happy customers who really do get good kilometrage out of the tool set. It could be improved, though, with Zombie-green scales and a corn cobb texturing.
You obviously don’t collect knives! Small cuts come with the territory! When you are constantly dealing with new, unfamiliar knives, it happens. This is the life we’ve chosen! 🔪❤️🔪
I do agree with the thing about the wire cutters. However, the scissors to me are not hard to use at all, and the ergonomics are great to me! No hot spots or anything. I'm not too worried about the quality of the knife considering I carry an actual pocketknife as well, although I have to say that I have used the knife to deburr the edges of an aluminum plate, and it held it's edge surprisingly well. I expected a chip to form on the egde of the blade, and it didn't. Anyways, I love my Wingman, and I carry it everyday with no desire for more. Also, the package opener reduces the chance of the knife blade slipping and cutting into the product inside the packaging.
What's up mate. When I use my wingman pliers for work I will usually slip my pinky on the other side of the handles to stop that slipping action. You don't lose much strength, and you can change the position of your pinky when you need to bear down. In the displaced pinky configuration you get a surprising amount of precision and dexterity with plier work due to the increased control over pressure.
I have both the wingman and the rev. Either is sufficient for fishing. I look at a multi tool more as a "Be Prepared" precaution rather than a traveling toolbox. They can be helpful for temporary fixes or performing simple tasks on the road or in the field. Most features on any multi tools I've ever had have been largely ignored anyway. I'm probably a rare case of someone who has used the Awl on a Victornox. I use it on the end of cigars on poker night. 😂
Personally i see the wingman's package opener is a great way to save the edge of your knife edge. But besides that awesome review as always nick. I love my wingman
Been looking to replace my multi tool for my range bag and you keep finding the issues that I’m looking for, but wouldn’t find until after I purchase it. Great reviews nick. Thanks for being “nick picky” and helping me tremendously through the purchase.
Ordered two, about two years ago, because Amazon had it for $27. Both were crap. Everything flexed like a cheapo. Got two replacements. Junk. Gave up on the Wingman, and got a Rebar, which was miles ahead. I will defend the package opener, though. It is a great tool to have, and it can do things the blade cannot. It is angled, allowing you to do draw cuts in tight places. It's more robust than the blade's tip, so you can cut thick plastic that the blade would struggle with. And it is much safer to use, and gives you better control. And as a clam-shell package opener, it is extremely effective. It is also a chisel grind, so it is extremely easy to sharpen. Amazingly well executed.
I've been using one for years now. I do really enjoy the spring-loaded pliers and I use the package opener for clamshell packages quite a bit around the holidays. I've never found a flathead screw that the driver fits, though.
NICK! my dude! you gotta do a leatherman skeletool CX its my absolute favorite EDC because its relatively light and has the tools that actually matter. i think you would be quite impressed :D
I lost my original Wave of 18 years and I'm looking for something to replace it with that is not too expensive, but is still high quality. Looking at this, the sidekick (wish I could get the Wingman with the sidekick straight blade) or possibly the rebar for a bit more. I don't like the lack of one handed opening blades with the rebar, but it has a great tool loadout and replaceable cutters.
Hey Nick, my Leatherman sidekick does have a lanyard hole that flips out on the side of the tool that has the file and caplifter, it may not be on the wingman but just a thought.
I carried that POS for like 2 years because I didn't know any better. The best budget multi-tool I have found is the SOG Power Assist or Power Lock. Now that is a proper tool at a great price. It has been and still is my go to multi-tool. Why more people don't use it I have no idea. The pliers are far superior to any of the Letherman tools IMO. Since that is the most important tool and the one most often used its hard not to love a older modal SOG. The newer ones are not built as well. I have the PowerPint and love it but the quality is not on the same level as the older stuff. Just my 2 cents. :)
I agree on all points, and would add an extra point, which is regarding the flattened Phillips screwdriver. I really don’t see why they couldn’t add a real 3D Phillips, and if they eliminated the package opener and put an awl in its place...💥 they’d have a winner.
Glad to know that the $30 I paid at the pawnshop was a good price. It was tagged at $45, but I thought it was a little expensive for the few tools on it. I've found the same problems you have with it though, especially the wide and slippery grip. Aside from that, I believe it's definitely a $30 multi-tool.
Love to see a victorinox Swiss tool vs leather man wave or rebar comparison from you. I believe the Swiss tool is the greatest multi tool in existence and I would be curious to see your comparison
I personally like and carry the Leatherman sidekick. It has most of the same features but, a straight blade and saw for the primaries and switches the box opener for a 1.5" serrated blade.
I just got one of these as a gift.. awl was my only ask but the half serraited blade means no whittling at all. And the serrations came just one mass of burrs. Thank you for showing my that the scissors do have a spring! I didnt even know they locked, i had to shove pretty hard for the spring to engage and them to lock.
I think the true "wingman" should be Leatherman Squirt PS4. First, it's so small and lightweight, won't bother you at all. Second, it's functional and reliable for occasional uses. And last but not least, it won't scare women away. Even women appreciate this cute and delicate multi-tool, so much that it might even give you a chance to start a conversation. Or maybe not, hasn't happened to me yet. Although women probably won't like its name. This little guy sounds a little big too excited (ern? ern?).
I just retired my old Original Leatherman, it was probably 35-40 years old, but you had to open it to get to the knife inside. I love them old ones, I bought 4 of them and none of them broke. I went with the Wingman for ease of getting the knife on outside. Spring loaded players are nice. I do not like the Pocket Clip. First time I used it I forgot to put the knife away Yeeeeeouch. Took the clip off and bought the right size leather holster. Works great. The tension for the drivers are great, since the original Leatherman didn’t have any tension. Scissors are a First for me. I give it 4,75 stars
I wanted to get the sidekick a while back but when they raised the price I didn't think it was worth it. I've had the leatherman wave for several years now and even though I don't carry it I'm very happy with it. I carry it in my maxpedition jumbo sling bag which I usually take with me in my vehicles.
I belt carry an orange wave every day and love every minute of it. A used wave with a lot of years left on the warranty makes more sense to me than the wingman
I love the Wingman! Mostly as I have zero need for a bigger multi-tool, and the package opener is a family favorite for sure! This thing is perfect and inexpensive (I bought mine 3 years ago). If I need a more comfortable set of tool, I can access my real tools anyways. The Leatherman is a quick fix, quick grab, kind of affair for me.
it's true that blade does the package opener's work. But it should be considered how much less riskier the latter makes it. For someone concerned about hard edges being painful for the hand, i must warn against slipping on a cut and opening up the fleshy part of the thumb. Cutting oneself isn't a rare occurence by any metrics.
I received a Wingman as a gift. At first, I thought it was neat -- it had many of the tools I used on my old Wave, but a bit lighter and easier to just carry around in my pocket. I set it aside after a month or so (it must be in my workbench somewhere, I think). The weaknesses are many, as Nick shows. I am on my third Wave, lifetime. I will not vary from the path again. (Although I wish Leatherman would bring back their old black leather sheath -- the new ones are worthless.)
I have carried a Super Tool 300 for about 9 years now. In my experience the pain edge knife blade, the one I use the most, does dull fairly quick but it also sharpens VERY easy and does get hair popping sharp.
Honestly in my opinion on multi tools I enjoy half serrated because if they were to put a normal blade and a full serrated blade it’s almost wasting a tool that they could’ve thrown in. They easily could’ve took those scissors out for a full serrated blade. Ya know?
Wave has both serrated and a straight blade. That bothers me to the point that i ordered Wingman's scissors from Ebay for me to install in the place of that serrated blade! This way i get to place an awl in the place of the old tiny scissors of Wave. It'll be great, i can't wait!
The Wingman is not a high end tool but they get the job done. I have given a bunch of these as gifts and carry one in my truck. My favorite Leatherman is still the Rebar.
I've cut barbed wire with the wingman but it was very difficult. What I hate the most about is that carrying it with the clip really scrapes your hand when you reach for other things in your pocket.
Hi, Nick! Have you done a comparison between Sidekick vs MP600 bladeless ? I prefer the Gerber MP design since it’s tools all lock, pliers slide out front (1 hand opening), and the tool does not dig into my hand. Also, less than $50 right now. I carry a separate blade.
About six years ago I was in Home Depot, saw the Sidekick with the Micra for $19.99. I swear I asked the clerk and she said it was a special. Bought 4 packs, gave three swift Xmas. Still think they made a mistake 😛
I agree with the flathead screwdriver. I have the sidekick and for the most part it’s good but that flathead is to big for most screws so I have to try and use the smaller one and a lot of times it just can’t do it.
I would say if you wear gloves while using the pliers, that should make it more comfortable to use. Also with it being a cheaper multtool, I don't think its meant for hard core use. The flat head could always be grounded down a little to your liking. Just like with anything, anyone could do some custom work on tools like that to make them more satisfactory to the owners. I own the Wingman myself also the Wave and I have the Leatherman Charge. I carry the Wave on me all the time and the Wingman is a good tool just to have laying around where ever as a backup tool. But regardless good video.
My exact thought. The Charge having scales makes it even a better overall fitment too. After I lost my first Charge, I tried to replace it with a wave....took it back.
the Rev is the same price as the wingman at my local mall. They're also the same price as the wave and more expensive than the surge. I don't understand that. Have you thought about reviewing the surge Nick?
I choose the Wingman over the Wave because it is lighter, spring action plier and the scissor is bigger. It is my EDC. I think the reason why they cant put a spring action on the Wave because of the ruler and it is really dumb! I have a tape measure at home, car, work and if ever I will go on camping I will bring one.
I have this same leatherman and one side of the pliers got stuck on the outer side of the tool when i was using the screw and accidentally closed the handle 🤦🏾♀️
I have the sidekick which has a slightly different set of tools. I couldn't agree more about ergonomics of the pliers. I will carry my sidekick occasionally when I want to have pliers just in case but, don't know I will need them. Really, a swiss army knife and a real set of pliers is a much better combination. The reality is that pliers (especially by themselves) aren't really the best tool for much anyway. They are good for griping wire or cable. The needle nose can do some electrical work. You can maybe tighten a smallish bolt in a pinch but, a bolt with a nut need two tools. A good adjustable wrench or even channel lock is a much better choice. So, although I don't think this is a great tool, for the price it sorta does what I expect from a folding needle nose multi-tool for a very reasonable price. I have considered getting something better but, I don't think I would use it for anything more than I use the sidekick. Also, the one handed knife is a great feature regardless of the steel.
OMG any multi-tool where the knife lock in place I would love because I've got multi-tools with a knife does not lock in place and it just flops around and it makes it very hard the control of the knife when you're doing any type of tasks with it. So for the creators of the project that's awesome that they Incorporated that into their to their product I would gladly buy one of those.
I bought the Walmart version for less than $5... the pliers collapsed when I tried to pull the valve steam on a car. Then the knife folded back towards my hand cutting a strap on the roof rack. Now I carry a Wingman. Hasn’t failed me yet. You get what you pay for.
Nick Shabazz so I have to give you $5/month so I can buy a blade second hand? For someone who puts little effort into something you ask a lot from your admirers. My mouth just got really dry.
Used the Wingman for years. Served me well. Can’t beat the price. Upgraded to the Rebar and never looked back!
The Rebar needs scissors!
*me planning on going from rebar to wingman*
I will stay at wingman😢😂
I carried the Leatherman PST for most of my military career and only picked up the Wingman when I lost the PST during a training exercise. The Wingman has been my EDC ever since, and sees plenty of use in my current civilian job.
This Wingman is my most carried multitool that works for me. I don’t use the knife on it, because I already have a dedicated knife on me, so it doesn’t bother me. The scissors on it is very useful, so is the wire cutter/stripper. I can’t knock it, it’s compact, useful, and light. It knocked my supertool out of my edc, because of the weight issue. But I might give that wave a try in the future, since it’s been on my list for quite sometime.
Mike E good to have it as a sharp backup knife anyway
The Wave/Charge is one of the mts known, the OG PST being what brought Leatherman to the dance.
The painful edges remind you you're alive.
6:00 curse my luck! I’m considering a purchase in 2020 and this thing is $60!
Pro: decent 40 dollar tool even though it used to be 30 dollars. Con: It doesn't have what the 120 dollar tool from the same company has. I feel your pain. I was SOOOO disappointed when I realized my Ford Ranger was not on par with the F350 King Ranch I could have bought at three times the price. Ford...you really need to step up your game and start making Rangers better!
Bought one of these used for $25 as an alternative to my Charge TTi for use around the office/lab where I work as well as around the homestead. There are definitely changes I would make to the design but I FAR prefer it to the Charge for EDC.
I REALLY like the anvil-cutters on the pliers vs the by-pass on my charge - these penetrate quickly from both sides and complete the cut more easily both on wire, line, and thick-walled tubing that I use in the lab. They are highly efficient.
I really like that the pliers are spring loaded and feel this is a significant handicap for many other Leathermans, just as it is a handicap for scissors that are not spring-loaded. Having had these, I will not buy a multitool WITHOUT spring-loaded pliers. I do agree that the handle is quite uncomfortable to bear down on due to the thin, sharp wall - I plan to soften that with my dremel, an easy fix and i am glad that they at least thought to round it over.
I also prefer the partial-serration on the knife: cutting thick-walled tubing as well as garden-hose, cord/rope, etc. I find that the serrations penetrate more efficiently for faster/cleaner cutting whereas the plain-edge dulls more easily. One place where I do like a plain-edge is opening bags and packages and for that the plain-edge end of the blade is well suited. I do not typically need both a short plain-edge and a short serrated-edge as is found on my Charge.
The scissors, while somewhat tricky to deploy, are quicker to deploy and more usable than the tiny set on my Charge, and I actually use them quite a bit for trimming threads and other delicate cutting.
I do not use the can-opener for opening cans, i use it as a cap-lifter and wish it were that but am fine with what it is, and the wire-stripper works. The file also works and i am glad that it is not any finer, an excellent deburring tool. The fine screw-driver, as you mentioned, is a great narrow pry-tool and that is also how I tend to use it, and i also use the ruler for fine width-measurements on occasion.
The package-opener was actually a major selling-point for me as I owned the Gerber Dime first and found this blade very VERY useful for a number of unconventional tasks as well as just cleaning under nails and opening clamshell packages. In my work, I am often connecting bits of tubing to barbed attachments as well as removing them, and this tool allows me to make a short cut through the thick wall of the tubing and then slip under and pry the tubing lose from the barbs and slip it free - for this purpose, the Wingman cutter works much better than the Dime and provides adequate thickness for the prying portion of the process.
The pocket-clip: I disagree about its placement, I wish it were positioned to be as close to the seam of the pocket as possible for right-pocket carry. As it is, it sits well away from the seam and is more likely to catch on things as well as being less aesthetic in presentation. As it is, I will not carry the tool in my pocket but clipped to my belt instead. One thing I REALLY like about this tool vs the Charge is that *** I can actually carry it with the clip and it will never flip open! *** I tried carrying my Charge by the clip and abandoned the idea very quickly as the tool continually flipped open in pocket and became a hazard, regardless of trying to mount it to use the seam of my pocket to hold it closed or not, and I tried all four main pockets for carry. I am considering drill holes in the Charge to accommodate an alternate clip that will carry correctly inverted so that the handles cannot ever unfold by force of gravity, which is the way it should have been designed from day one. As it is, the Charge pocket-clip is useless, and THAT is the main reason (even beyond the difference in thickness between these two tools) why I EDC the Wingman and leave the Charge in a pack.
The slip-joint tools work fine for me, never had a problem and am happy if it means less weight/footprint for the tool.
In the other handle I find myself quite disappointed that they did not include the bit-driver present in so many other models and I hope they will remedy this in a future version of the Wingman - just replace that thick flat-head/pry-tool and phillips with a bit driver, or..... and here is my real wish...
I wish that Leatherman would re-make the Wingman with *** a quarter-inch bit-driver accessible from the outside of the tool ***
That's it, the main thing (other than the pocket-clip position/style) that I would change on the Wingman. I was looking into getting the Gerber MP1 MRO just for this special feature (along with the other tools being accessible without opening the pliers) but honestly prefer the Wingman's small footprint and ease of carry and also tool selection vs the MRO for EDC. Why-oh-why is there not a 'build-your-own multitool' service from one of these companies??
Good video, thanks for taking the time.
Chamdar17 yes!!! A build your own option would be amazing. Let me know when the petition is ready to sign 😁
I'm a Fire alarm tech, mainly focusing in inspection. I rarely use tools anymore but I have this in my pocket organizer and it hasn't let me down when I needed it. If you are going to use it every single day multiple times I would probably still Suggest upgrading to a wave.
Love your reviews nick thanks for all of the work you do. For me the wingman has worked incredibly well for the last two years. I’m in different situation than most though. I carry mine at work as a commercial electrician... most of the time I’m wearing my full 25 pound tool belt. If I need to drop my tools to climb into a crawl space or above an elevator car I try to bring just the tools I need from my tool belt. Sometimes I forget something and the wingman is always there to save the day. I’ve ground down the serrations on mine so that it has a full plain edge with a weird little recurve but I keep it hair popping sharp. If anyone else is in my same situation I recommend it, not that I have the credibility of nick, but coming from someone who does carry a full tool belt every work day the shortcomings of the wingman are not an issue for me.
As I watched this review everything that was a criticism seemed just fine to me because I'm in a situation like yours. I do not currently own this multi-tool or any like it and I've been looking for reviews (on all kinds of multi-tools) because these aren't sold in any stores for hundreds of miles around me (remote location). Yes I have a bag full of tools with me every day, but not directly on my person at all times because you just can't tolerate having everything on your belt at all times. This looks small enough that I won't notice it much in my pocket where my basic folding utility knife sits and should do a lot more for me in the same occupied amount of space. The sharp edges for the pliers might not be great but I feel like I could probably round them off or epoxy on a barrier strip.
I love this multi tool. When I had my first, I used it all the time. I'm buying it again as lost first one and miss it a lot. The scissors are nice and sharp, the knife stayed sharp. The wire cutters were handy and so is the cross head. I didn't find it painful to use at all, especially compared to cheap knock off multi tools. Using it for work and around home I just don't have an issue with it for the price.
He probably doesn’t have calloused hands
$40!!! Is this vid 10 yearsold??? This costs $60 in dec 2019!
I bought a wingman for $40 a couple of years ago. As the entry level model, they go on sale frequently (or at least they used to).
Yup, went to go get me a leatherman yesterday and wal... RAN away from the display case haha. Was going for the super tool, which was originally cheaper than the rebar, and it now costs 98 dollars.
$45 new on ebay.
Cost me 70 dollars
when i first saw these they were $20 on Amazon. i bought a fair amount of them for other people at the time due to the value after getting the first one. went to recommend them later and they were like $50. i guess they realized they were way too cheap initially.
Great detail. I haven’t used my Wingman much but at home I use old steak knives as package openers. I’m looking forward to having a package opener tool now because it can reduce wear and tear on the knife blade and also keep it free from glue and tape residue and other crap. I guess I’ll see if that actually makes a difference though. I suppose every tool that collects unwanted debris needs to be cleaned after usage. Also another thought about the package opener is it seems like a good idea to use the smallest blade that will work for the job. Using a larger blade on a package, particularly if it’s not a sharp enough blade, can result in injury if the user is careless, pushing the blade in the wrong direction, using too much force, etc.
I like to carry the leatherman rebar. its about the same size and thickness as the wingman. It's nice, flat and smooth so it feels pretty good in the pocket. It doesn't have a pocket clip, but there is an aftermarket sheath or you can use a neomag caddy. That works well for me to keep it in place. I use to carry a charge, but it's just to thick in the pocket. Yes none of the tools are accessible from the outside on the rebar, but the only tool I use frequent enough to warrant quick deployment is a knife. Like most others here, I carry a folding knife as well.
I've carried one of these for 2 years, its a very worthwhile tool for anyone's edc setup.
now 4...
@@misenthropic Lol thanks
Nick I love how you are doing reviews on Leatherman tools again! Do you think that you could do a review on the Leatherman Rebar by any chance?
Nice review. Switched to this mainly because of the spring in the pliers. It is a must have after needing a free hand and not having to use the other hand to open it up all the time.
best multi tool out there for the price and the average person! Carry it on your belt and have a good knife in your pocket ... Boom! Perfect combo!
Hive had mine for years it’s the best EDC this guys is bashing it for no reason
been edc for 6 years still works flawlessly
Love the small details like the wire cutters precision. Also nice that you film the knife so close. It was really helpful seeing the liner lock.
Have used this for 5 years, has never done me wrong. Want to upgrade for the bit system tools. Overall this tool is the best bang for your buck.
The Leatherman sidekick is nearly identical, but for me, has some slightly different/more useful tools, and comes with a lanyard ring that can be tucked away. Check it out.
I modified my Wingman by grinding the package opener down to an awl and putting an edge on the big, useless flathead screwdriver to turn it into a mini wood chisel. If you do much bushcraft or woodwork, these are useful tools to have, and as far as I know there is no production Leatherman with a chisel on it. I still prefer the Sidekick because of the saw and the plain edge blade, but I like my modded Wingman more than I did before.
Thanks for the review. As always! I subscribe to hear your opinion, not necessarily what I might think. No point in that.
The Wingman and the Sidekick are light duty tools. The non-locking inside tools, in closed handle position really don't present a problem. So who feels hotspots on a light duty tool that is not for giant frozen bolts anyway?
The wire cutters work on my house wiring and simple lamp or appliance rewiring. But I am no electrician, so more than that I can't say. The Wave has no awl, wastes space on the micro driver with soft steel that distorts and breaks, and the wire cutters are not exactly stellar. Certainly not compared to SOGs.
Many reviewers love a light duty multi tool with spring loaded pliers.
We all talk too much as if our multitools are replacement for dedicated tools. Or that they must all be compared to the Wave or Charge.
Arguing price is fair, though, as a $20 or $30 difference between models is almost trivial for most who only buy and use one multitool, or maybe two. I have around 35, unnecessarily, and for fun. But there are so many models that we need to recommend according to potential needs, and based on LONG-TERM use. Durability is everything. I have 20+ year old Leatherman and Victorinox multitools. That 420HC, heat treated well, is not inferior. Yes better steel would be nice, but only for some. The heavy duty multitools for example. Buck proved that heat treatment is the primary issue for 420HC, anyway.
So if someone cuts up, or opens cartons all day, or that hard shipping strap, both of which are very hard on blades, they ought to pick up a sturdy box-cutter with cheap replaceable blades. That wouldn't be suitable for Wingman. But incidentally in the course of other work, Wingman works.
So Wingman has now a several years history of usage, and many reports from a wide variety of users. My verdict:
•Light use--Very good.
•Heavy use--A big NO.
•Middling to slightly heavy use--Mostly no, so why chance it. Especially not frequent daily usage on the job. That suggests the need for a dedicated tool.
Comparing to LM Squirt, well, that is an excellent light/very light tool. It screams more Altoid prepper tin, that deltoid ripper men. Multitools are not just one tool set, any one of which can be compared as equivalent to any other.
Wingman has many happy customers who really do get good kilometrage out of the tool set. It could be improved, though, with Zombie-green scales and a corn cobb texturing.
Very fitting that his name is Nick, and he has a Band-Aid on each hand giving a knife review, lol. Excellent review, thank you.
You obviously don’t collect knives! Small cuts come with the territory! When you are constantly dealing with new, unfamiliar knives, it happens. This is the life we’ve chosen! 🔪❤️🔪
I do agree with the thing about the wire cutters. However, the scissors to me are not hard to use at all, and the ergonomics are great to me! No hot spots or anything. I'm not too worried about the quality of the knife considering I carry an actual pocketknife as well, although I have to say that I have used the knife to deburr the edges of an aluminum plate, and it held it's edge surprisingly well. I expected a chip to form on the egde of the blade, and it didn't. Anyways, I love my Wingman, and I carry it everyday with no desire for more.
Also, the package opener reduces the chance of the knife blade slipping and cutting into the product inside the packaging.
What's up mate. When I use my wingman pliers for work I will usually slip my pinky on the other side of the handles to stop that slipping action. You don't lose much strength, and you can change the position of your pinky when you need to bear down. In the displaced pinky configuration you get a surprising amount of precision and dexterity with plier work due to the increased control over pressure.
I have both the wingman and the rev. Either is sufficient for fishing. I look at a multi tool more as a "Be Prepared" precaution rather than a traveling toolbox. They can be helpful for temporary fixes or performing simple tasks on the road or in the field. Most features on any multi tools I've ever had have been largely ignored anyway. I'm probably a rare case of someone who has used the Awl on a Victornox. I use it on the end of cigars on poker night. 😂
Nick’s nails in the nail knicks...mind blown!
Personally i see the wingman's package opener is a great way to save the edge of your knife edge. But besides that awesome review as always nick. I love my wingman
it's just a lot harder to get to than the knife
Wow. These are $70 in 2024...
Been looking to replace my multi tool for my range bag and you keep finding the issues that I’m looking for, but wouldn’t find until after I purchase it. Great reviews nick. Thanks for being “nick picky” and helping me tremendously through the purchase.
Ordered two, about two years ago, because Amazon had it for $27. Both were crap. Everything flexed like a cheapo. Got two replacements. Junk. Gave up on the Wingman, and got a Rebar, which was miles ahead.
I will defend the package opener, though. It is a great tool to have, and it can do things the blade cannot. It is angled, allowing you to do draw cuts in tight places. It's more robust than the blade's tip, so you can cut thick plastic that the blade would struggle with. And it is much safer to use, and gives you better control. And as a clam-shell package opener, it is extremely effective. It is also a chisel grind, so it is extremely easy to sharpen. Amazingly well executed.
Probably got fakes off amazon.
yeah my wingman has lasted me since 2012 and still kicking. the 420hc is still one of the sharpest things I have
I'd hate to have a package opener, but glad it works for some. It's innovative, as i don't recall seeing that in multitools before.
I've been using one for years now. I do really enjoy the spring-loaded pliers and I use the package opener for clamshell packages quite a bit around the holidays. I've never found a flathead screw that the driver fits, though.
The paint can opener? Never tried it on a screw...;)
NICK! my dude! you gotta do a leatherman skeletool CX its my absolute favorite EDC because its relatively light and has the tools that actually matter. i think you would be quite impressed :D
I lost my original Wave of 18 years and I'm looking for something to replace it with that is not too expensive, but is still high quality. Looking at this, the sidekick (wish I could get the Wingman with the sidekick straight blade) or possibly the rebar for a bit more. I don't like the lack of one handed opening blades with the rebar, but it has a great tool loadout and replaceable cutters.
Hey Nick, my Leatherman sidekick does have a lanyard hole that flips out on the side of the tool that has the file and caplifter, it may not be on the wingman but just a thought.
I carried that POS for like 2 years because I didn't know any better. The best budget multi-tool I have found is the SOG Power Assist or Power Lock. Now that is a proper tool at a great price. It has been and still is my go to multi-tool. Why more people don't use it I have no idea. The pliers are far superior to any of the Letherman tools IMO. Since that is the most important tool and the one most often used its hard not to love a older modal SOG. The newer ones are not built as well. I have the PowerPint and love it but the quality is not on the same level as the older stuff. Just my 2 cents. :)
I agree on all points, and would add an extra point, which is regarding the flattened Phillips screwdriver. I really don’t see why they couldn’t add a real 3D Phillips, and if they eliminated the package opener and put an awl in its place...💥 they’d have a winner.
The thicker flathead is probably to be used as a durable prybar!
Glad to know that the $30 I paid at the pawnshop was a good price. It was tagged at $45, but I thought it was a little expensive for the few tools on it. I've found the same problems you have with it though, especially the wide and slippery grip. Aside from that, I believe it's definitely a $30 multi-tool.
I just ordered this off of Amazon and it arrived tomorrow I can't wait to get it
just sold my rebar,, and charge plus tti.. already missing them,, best budget multitool in your opinion??
Love to see a victorinox Swiss tool vs leather man wave or rebar comparison from you. I believe the Swiss tool is the greatest multi tool in existence and I would be curious to see your comparison
This is kept in my tackle box It is my go to multi tool for fishing because of the spring loaded plies and nice scissors
I personally like and carry the Leatherman sidekick. It has most of the same features but, a straight blade and saw for the primaries and switches the box opener for a 1.5" serrated blade.
I just got one of these as a gift.. awl was my only ask but the half serraited blade means no whittling at all. And the serrations came just one mass of burrs. Thank you for showing my that the scissors do have a spring! I didnt even know they locked, i had to shove pretty hard for the spring to engage and them to lock.
I think the true "wingman" should be Leatherman Squirt PS4. First, it's so small and lightweight, won't bother you at all. Second, it's functional and reliable for occasional uses. And last but not least, it won't scare women away. Even women appreciate this cute and delicate multi-tool, so much that it might even give you a chance to start a conversation. Or maybe not, hasn't happened to me yet. Although women probably won't like its name. This little guy sounds a little big too excited (ern? ern?).
I just retired my old Original Leatherman, it was probably 35-40 years old, but you had to open it to get to the knife inside. I love them old ones, I bought 4 of them and none of them broke.
I went with the Wingman for ease of getting the knife on outside. Spring loaded players are nice.
I do not like the Pocket Clip. First time I used it I forgot to put the knife away Yeeeeeouch. Took the clip off and bought the right size leather holster.
Works great.
The tension for the drivers are great, since the original Leatherman didn’t have any tension.
Scissors are a First for me.
I give it 4,75 stars
Hi Nick...Do you have the Leatherman Rebar - If yes what's your opinion of that one....?
I wanted to get the sidekick a while back but when they raised the price I didn't think it was worth it. I've had the leatherman wave for several years now and even though I don't carry it I'm very happy with it. I carry it in my maxpedition jumbo sling bag which I usually take with me in my vehicles.
I belt carry an orange wave every day and love every minute of it. A used wave with a lot of years left on the warranty makes more sense to me than the wingman
I love the Wingman! Mostly as I have zero need for a bigger multi-tool, and the package opener is a family favorite for sure! This thing is perfect and inexpensive (I bought mine 3 years ago). If I need a more comfortable set of tool, I can access my real tools anyways. The Leatherman is a quick fix, quick grab, kind of affair for me.
it's true that blade does the package opener's work. But it should be considered how much less riskier the latter makes it. For someone concerned about hard edges being painful for the hand, i must warn against slipping on a cut and opening up the fleshy part of the thumb. Cutting oneself isn't a rare occurence by any metrics.
I received a Wingman as a gift. At first, I thought it was neat -- it had many of the tools I used on my old Wave, but a bit lighter and easier to just carry around in my pocket. I set it aside after a month or so (it must be in my workbench somewhere, I think). The weaknesses are many, as Nick shows. I am on my third Wave, lifetime. I will not vary from the path again. (Although I wish Leatherman would bring back their old black leather sheath -- the new ones are worthless.)
I have carried a Super Tool 300 for about 9 years now. In my experience the pain edge knife blade, the one I use the most, does dull fairly quick but it also sharpens VERY easy and does get hair popping sharp.
Honestly in my opinion on multi tools I enjoy half serrated because if they were to put a normal blade and a full serrated blade it’s almost wasting a tool that they could’ve thrown in. They easily could’ve took those scissors out for a full serrated blade. Ya know?
Wave has both serrated and a straight blade. That bothers me to the point that i ordered Wingman's scissors from Ebay for me to install in the place of that serrated blade! This way i get to place an awl in the place of the old tiny scissors of Wave. It'll be great, i can't wait!
The Wingman is not a high end tool but they get the job done. I have given a bunch of these as gifts and carry one in my truck. My favorite Leatherman is still the Rebar.
Nick, love your reviews, glad you're out here doing this...
Just bought this tool! Hopefully they fixed it! I'm sure it's good!
I've cut barbed wire with the wingman but it was very difficult. What I hate the most about is that carrying it with the clip really scrapes your hand when you reach for other things in your pocket.
Hi, Nick! Have you done a comparison between Sidekick vs MP600 bladeless ? I prefer the Gerber MP design since it’s tools all lock, pliers slide out front (1 hand opening), and the tool does not dig into my hand. Also, less than $50 right now. I carry a separate blade.
Appreciate the thorough review!
Was $30, then 40. Now $70.
About six years ago I was in Home Depot, saw the Sidekick with the Micra for $19.99. I swear I asked the clerk and she said it was a special. Bought 4 packs, gave three swift Xmas. Still think they made a mistake 😛
Do they have a newer version to this one?
I agree with the flathead screwdriver. I have the sidekick and for the most part it’s good but that flathead is to big for most screws so I have to try and use the smaller one and a lot of times it just can’t do it.
I would say if you wear gloves while using the pliers, that should make it more comfortable to use. Also with it being a cheaper multtool, I don't think its meant for hard core use. The flat head could always be grounded down a little to your liking. Just like with anything, anyone could do some custom work on tools like that to make them more satisfactory to the owners. I own the Wingman myself also the Wave and I have the Leatherman Charge. I carry the Wave on me all the time and the Wingman is a good tool just to have laying around where ever as a backup tool. But regardless good video.
How’s the wave your favorite tool when you have a charge tti?
My exact thought. The Charge having scales makes it even a better overall fitment too. After I lost my first Charge, I tried to replace it with a wave....took it back.
The bit kit should have never been brought into this. The Sidekick wasn't meant to be used with the bit kit at all.
the Rev is the same price as the wingman at my local mall. They're also the same price as the wave and more expensive than the surge. I don't understand that.
Have you thought about reviewing the surge Nick?
I choose the Wingman over the Wave because it is lighter, spring action plier and the scissor is bigger. It is my EDC. I think the reason why they cant put a spring action on the Wave because of the ruler and it is really dumb! I have a tape measure at home, car, work and if ever I will go on camping I will bring one.
I have the wave, the charge, and the skeletool. The skeletool is my goto. No BS, light, and has everything I use and nothing I don't.
I have this same leatherman and one side of the pliers got stuck on the outer side of the tool when i was using the screw and accidentally closed the handle 🤦🏾♀️
Not so much budget MT anymore.
Any thoughts on the Leatherman sidekick? Thx
I have the sidekick which has a slightly different set of tools. I couldn't agree more about ergonomics of the pliers. I will carry my sidekick occasionally when I want to have pliers just in case but, don't know I will need them. Really, a swiss army knife and a real set of pliers is a much better combination. The reality is that pliers (especially by themselves) aren't really the best tool for much anyway. They are good for griping wire or cable. The needle nose can do some electrical work. You can maybe tighten a smallish bolt in a pinch but, a bolt with a nut need two tools. A good adjustable wrench or even channel lock is a much better choice. So, although I don't think this is a great tool, for the price it sorta does what I expect from a folding needle nose multi-tool for a very reasonable price. I have considered getting something better but, I don't think I would use it for anything more than I use the sidekick. Also, the one handed knife is a great feature regardless of the steel.
OMG any multi-tool where the knife lock in place I would love because I've got multi-tools with a knife does not lock in place and it just flops around and it makes it very hard the control of the knife when you're doing any type of tasks with it. So for the creators of the project that's awesome that they Incorporated that into their to their product I would gladly buy one of those.
I bought the Walmart version for less than $5... the pliers collapsed when I tried to pull the valve steam on a car. Then the knife folded back towards my hand cutting a strap on the roof rack.
Now I carry a Wingman. Hasn’t failed me yet. You get what you pay for.
That was an exciting $5
I purchased this when it was still offered for less than $30. It now sells for $70.
Sometimes Nick makes me think he has softer hands than a newborn baby and has never used a tool bigger than a jewel screwdriver.
How you know what a condom full of pottery shards feels like... I do not want to know.
EDC elephant textured
Heres a stat im curious about...
How many videos has Nick done with bandaids?
Irony if Nicks first name aside, how many "nicks" has Nick nicked?
I got mine on my 12th birthday. Still use it everyday and I’m almost 20
I’m going to grind on my brand new wingman to make the flat head useable for work.
Great review Nick! Thanks for putting in the effort, good man 👍🏻
You got the sisscors wrong my friend. I can litterally open them and close with one hand
Did the price go up?
Wire cutters should never cross go look at a pair of wire cutters. They should come together but not cross.
Adventures with Frodo couldn’t agree more. They will, inevitably, pinch instead of cut.
The wire cutters and strippers are together if you look closely at the back end of the cutter , notice the whole
review request, the victorinox fieldmaster
Victorinox spirit or swisstool all the way,second to absolutely none in any way imho.
No budget tools tho,for that leatherman is a great option!
I'm a Super tool 300 guy. I use the darn thing all the time
Hey Nick do you happen to have a review on the Buck Spitfire?
Problem with Leatherman is I can never find one with exact combo of tools I need.
2023 retail price is $60, double the original price
Now in 2024 it’s 70$!!!
Just bought the sidekick version, really dissapointed finding out the wirecutter does not actually touch, sold it right away after 1 month..
A condom full of pottery shards? Got a giggle out of that one.
$30/$40? damn theyre $70 now
Nick Shabazz do you have any knives you’d like to sale or where do you sale your knives?
Thanks, Dane
On Patreon for my supporters
Nick Shabazz so I have to give you $5/month so I can buy a blade second hand? For someone who puts little effort into something you ask a lot from your admirers. My mouth just got really dry.
I absolutely adore your accent!
It was 30 bucks?
I just bought one (including holder) for 83 EUR...