For anyone interested, the Steinwhale Stubby 10 in 1 double-sided bits Todd introduced us to in a prior video fit perfectly in the 711L Lollipop driver. It's the perfect pocket screwdriver IMO. The Lollipop is often discounted during Prime Days. I got the aluminum version for $44 in July on a 20% sale. The Steinwhale bits are always around $12, and include a great selection of metric hex, Torx, flat head and Phillips.
@@todd.parkerwhy the surge over the other options that exist? I have been working on my plan for this sort of kit for about a year now and this has to be the best video period I have seen. I have a tech kit I put together already. I have been working in tech for about 25 years.
@@todd.parker Just about finished with my EDC kit with some changes to make it for my needs and likes . 1. I had the PB Swiss swissgrip bit driver so I used that . Plus it’s small and works well . 2. The bits I decided to use a bunch of new one sided Milwaukee bits I had and I put them in a mini tin (1 3/4”X 2 1/2”) that I had. 3.. I decided not to go with the Leatherman and I replaced it with the Knipex 5” Cobra and I put in the Victorinox Rambler , the bantam , a small diamond file and a 220 piece of sand paper (for car batteries or whatever else ) 4. The flip sockets are the same . 5. Same flashlight . 6. Extension magnet . 7. I purchased the 711L I got for $15 on Amazon sale , that fits the PB Swiss bit driver . It’s the hex ratchet. 8. Milwaukee 3ft tape measure . 9. Same pen . 10. Duct tape . 11. I added 4 zip ties , 2 mini and 2 small sizes . 12. I don’t have the Uncle Bill’s Clipper yet . It’s coming . 13. I added a pair of hospital gloves in a zip lock bag . A thin small hanky . Also a sharpie marker . I think that’s it . Thanks again for the advice and an awesome video .
The thing that decided whether or not to include the Knipex is loose bolts. It's nice to have a second grabby thing to hold the head and keep it from spinning while I remove the nut. I don't have sockets in my setup though. I keep the 125mm knipex, wiha bits, a couple saw blades, the leatherman bit extender, a Rogan pry bar, a pen, a rovyvon a8, my cards and my keys and fob in a pouch that ends up being a little bulkier than an old school leather wallet, and my surge rides on a belt clip. I'm considering getting a small ratchet to throw in my lunch bag at some point, maybe a zyclops, but haven't gotten there yet.
thank you for this video. I'm a handyman, I don't always work out of a tool belt , I love this setup because I carry a lot of pocket tools that are heavy or big . your setup is wonderful thanks again for sharing
Todd, enjoyed the video. I ditched multi tools awhile back, and couldn’t be happier. They are heavy, and don’t really do any one thing well. Given you have a pouch with a bunch of other stuff in it, I’d love to see another video on how to ditch the multi tool altogether. And yes, you should keep the Knipex Cobras, even going up one size if it will fit.
Once you grow accustomed to the multitool it becomes irreplaceable tho. So much so that i rather use my leatherman wave to tighten a screw next to the driverseat of my work van which got the trunk stuffed with all the proper tools.
It amazes me that barely anyone is offering a portable compact set of sockets. I had to make a socket holder out of electrical tape because I can't find a mini socket holder anywhere. There are plenty of EDC friendly bit holders out there, but no socket holders. So glad Klein is offering the flip sockets in metric. Think I'll have to get them in SAE & metric now.
I agree. I don't want to carry a big set of sockets around for EDC. Makita has a nice set in metric and imperial but that's about it. These Klein ones are nice because they are so compact
Honestly if a multitool is too heavy to carry around on your person, just make a tool kit with dedicated tools. You’re going to have to go looking for it anyway when there’s a job to do. Small exception maybe for cycling/hiking when weight vs function matters, but in the car or around the house it’s not really a factor.
That’s true. As soon as you need a pouch, you can probably carry separate tools. This setup is a sweet spot for me because the Surge covers a lot of ground for high quality tools - locking knife, scissors, pliers, file, saw, etc. and separate tools would be bulkier so a mix of separate and multi-tools can lighten the load
I have a Knipex pliers wrench and Cobra instead of a Leatherman. The smallest and second smallest sizes of those feel pretty decent. I have the smallest pliers wrench and second smallest Cobra. I have a Hoto 4mm driver with loads of bits in the handle. For smaller bits it’s perfect. I use a small adjustable pair of wire strippers. I strip wires a lot so I like having a good stripper. I have a Vessel Phillips ratchet. It’s a full size #2, but you can remove the Phillips shaft and stick other 1/4” hex bits.
I carry my Leatherman 'just in case'. For regular work I use full size tools. When I buy a Leatherman, I choose those with full size fixed Philips, even if it means I have to settle for only 1 size.
Been looking for a small socket solution to pair with my Icon mini ratchet...glad you came across a solution for it! Great video! Simple and to the point.
I've actually been putting off watching this video out of fear, that I'll end up spending money. Interestingly, after watching, I'm somewhat surprised that there isn't really anything that I would add because I don't use my Surge in the same way you do. I have a Backpack Toolkit which pretty much goes with me everywhere, which weighs around 1.2kg. I weighed it, after watching the video, because I thought it would be around the same weight as your kit. It's a fully capable toolkit built around the Wera Tool Check. I'm really impressed with how much extra functionality you have gotten with the Surge as the centre piece in your kit and the weight to capability ratio is awesome.
Heh, sorry my videos make you spend money, my hope is to avoid buying the wrong stuff like I end up doing. You're right that this is different from a slightly larger toolkit so they are different use cases.
@@todd.parker there's no need to apologise, it's mainly been the little nudge I needed to take the plunge. The one featuring the Veto Pro Pac in particular. I think it's important to get the bad tools and the stuff that doesn't quite work to find the good ones and the stuff that does work. Also what works and what doesn't is so personal, whilst similarities will be present I suspect there are things that will be completely different.
The presta tools pick is also worth it. Tiny and a pick is sometimes the only thing that will work. Admittedly i have made a ultralight pick out of a bent bicycle spoke and some tape, but it was a pain.
I got a few ideas from the video. I ordered the Klein sockets. It is really nice that they are impact rated. I had never though about the overlap between imperial and metric allowing for a bunch of sizes to be eliminated.
Great stuff, Todd. Love the Lollipop! FWIW You can trim those flip sockets down to 3 if you want. 8/10 that came on the short shank (for M5/M6 bolts), the 13/14 socket (for M8, 5/16 and 3/8 bolts) from the long shank and 7/16-1/2 socket (for M7 and 1/4 bolts) from the imperial. You'd lose out on the 7mm and 12mm sockets which are fairly uncommon.
Great little kit. I recently started carrying the same Wera Driver, 711l ratchet , bit extender/bit kit and Knipex 4 inch Pliers wrench along with my Charge +. Compliments it very well, and compact enough to still keep on your belt with the stock sheath.
If im going for EDC (which generally youd want to slim your carry as you are intending to carry it everyday) im taking the surge, leatherman bitkit, and the ratcheting leatherman extension. Ive found the more things i try to encorporate into my EDC the less and less i actually use my EDC because it becomes a hassle or weighs me down from all the stuff im carrying. The whia driver, sockets and additional bits are great suggestions but for me would be stored in a tool bag somewhere when i need soemthing a little bit more than everyday tools.
Check out the BAUER 6 ft. x 1/2 in. Keychain Tape Measure from Harbor Freight - it is only $1-2 and doubles the usable length of the 3' Stanley for the same compact foot print. It may also be lighter weight with a plastic housing instead of metal. Thanks for sharing!
Todd, would you consider the "Klein Metric Flip Socket set" (with or without the Klein short adapter with 8/10mm socket) as an across the board replacement for the "Makita 8 Pc. 1/4" Impact Socket Set, Metric" featured in your "Affordable (and better) ToolCheck Plus alternatives for EDC + toolkits" video from 10 months ago?
They both fill the same role of a compact, minimal set of sockets for EDC. The Makita has some smaller sizes like 6 and 11 that the Klein doesn't have but Klein has 14mm which I think is important but it comes down to what kind of bolts you typically run into. If you have the space, getting a full 1/4 set with no skips like the HF I seven better but obviously much heavier
Great video and awesome info! You should also check out the Wera 838 RA-R M … it’s very compact and it’s ratcheting to save even more space and the possibility of losing the ratchet. The non rapidaptor version is even smaller too but still has ratcheting. I have the 813 R and the 838 RA-R M, both are great.
I second this. I bought 838 RA-R M and I love it so much. It's unique racheting function is the most intuitive design I've ever seen. So, I got the 838 RA S (non rapidaptor version) too. I use 816 RA and PB Swiss Tools 8510R-100 for heavier duty but I think 838 RA S is a really great EDC driver handle.
Thanks for the recommendation, just picked up the 838 and it’s great. I wish it was a bit deeper so it would work with the Wiha double sided bits but for standard bits, it’s slick
@@jonathanm2396 just ordered the Rapidapter version to test too (my poor bank account). I think that may be the winner because it will hold the Wiha double sided bits while the simpler version won’t. The rachet ring selector is genius. Good stuff.
@@todd.parker Awesome, I hope you like it! I totally agree and is exactly what I use mine for. Even though its a bit larger than the 813R, the wiha bits fit perfectly and maximize the capability for the space. A comparison video of all three using your system would be sick and might help with the bank account a little lol.
The tools in the Surge are awesome but the bit driver is just “ok” so doubling down on the expensive bit kit isn’t as good of an investment as buying the Wiha bits and Wra handle as far as ergonomics go. That’s my opinion anyway
I've never liked multiple so this really want for me. What it did show me is that I could get almost all the same functionally with a small swiss army, bit driver and tiny knipex. The only thing really missing is saw blade functionality and needle nose. I don't know how necessary those two are but I might go out looking for a way to get those two missing things. Hopefully I'll end up with a similarly weighted and sized alternative to the multi tool.
@@noahwithana4149 the cobra SX’s tip is fairly small and will reach 80~90% of what a surge can reach. Otherwise a pair of Knipex 25-01-125 (61 HRC) paired with a 87-01-125 cobra is stronger, lighter, and smaller footprint than a Leatherman
@@todd.parker I’m finding that a mix of your ultra light set up combined with a modular custom toolset on the Roxon Flex is just about the perfect edc. The Steinwhale bits cover everything bar recessed Philips fasteners, that is covered by the Roxon flex. I carry the Knipex xs, in combination with Flex needle nose pliers/wire cutters, dream team against nut and bolt combinations.
As always, a superior video with outstanding ideas and premier production! A pleasure to watch! A suggestion: You made a video a while back on medication kits, mentioning small pill plastic zip-top bags. I purchased a kit of those, and find that I like to include one or two in all tool kits. It gives me a place to put very small parts (washers, nuts, screws, etc.) so I don't lose them while working. Or worse--drop them on the ground, never to be seen again!
As always, great process & kit. I’d consider using a small “tactical” pouch such as from condor, maxpedition, etc with external MOLLE straps for attachment to oneself (belt, etc) or attachment of things while using, for example.
one thing about the wiha bits is that theres a couple different versions of the reload sets, 4 total different ones on their site, the regular, and ones for tradesman, industrial, and technicians. as for the 711L, i believe they're coming out with a smaller inline ratchet too really soon, they already have one bit its too big imo.
Security bits are my preference since they work on both. The Security reload 77783 and Technicians reload 77781 make a great combo.. There's a little overlap especially in the Torx, but you get about 20 or 21 distinct bits between the two that cover the gamut.
Definitely some good ideas for my Surge! With everything in the pouch, though, instead of the Surge, you could just add the knipex cobra, a military surplus P38 can opener, the gerber paraframe knife (mini, etc), maybe some small sewing scissors and a small saw. Beyond a pair of diamond pliers, that covers everything the Surge can do!
An affordable and effective alternative to the LM Surge is the BiBury Pliers Pro: ua-cam.com/video/KAKpd_Z9Ru4/v-deo.html. It holds all the standard bits shown in this video. Well worth checking out!
great setup. watched it once and then marked it to watch again later. I have the Leatherman crunch though and feel like it's the perfect multitool over the surge, but it's expensive to buy on ebay.
Great video, thanks. Check out the 6’ Milwaukee tape measure. Similar size to the 3’ Stanley and has dual markings with fractions. It’s been in my pocket for over a year and still going strong.
Yep! There is an official Leatherman one for $10 on sale now and a few 3rd party versions too. It's a big boy to carry with a clip but you can! amzn.to/4ihNTLg
Not gonna lie, after getting the stuff in your hyper light edc, with the modern carry wallet, the 711 ratchet and all that, I actually don't feel nearly as interested by this as I usually am by this type of thing, the hyper light edc is just too good between size, weight, and versatility
That’s cool to hear. That kit packs a ton of functionality in something much lighter than this. I keep this on hand for when my EDC isn’t enough (missing sockets, saw, file) and my toolbar would be overkill. Just threw this in my bag this weekend just in case
If I understand correctly you have an old version of Leatherman bit holder in the video, now a new version with a magnet inside is available and wiha double-sided bits are perfect for it. Try it, highly recommended
@@todd.parker yes, the old version and its counterparts work, but they use a spring inside the holder to keep the bits in place, which makes it not so convenient to install compared to a magnetic holder. when I tried the new version, I sold the old one right away :)
@@todd.parker sorry, maybe you misunderstood me, the old leatherman version and the knockoffs do not use a magnet. the new version of the holder can be compared to the reatchet drive (which also uses a magnet).
1. For someone who already has standard 1/4" sockets, what do you recommend for organizing the 6 or so in an EDC kit? Too bad you can't buy something like Makita uses for its small sets. 2. How did you originally land on the Quinn 1/4" sockets? Cheap, light, and included the lightweight plastic rail?
It’s tricky, I haven’t found a good socket storage solution. Like you said the Makita is nice but if you already have sockets maybe look for a plastic rail you can cut to length. I was working on a HF toolkit and saw how affordable their racket and sockets were and they are pretty similar to other brands
So what do you do for hex key/Allen screws? From what I could see online, the Wiha set covers all the other bits in the Leatherman set (plus a few more) but had zero hex bits. Overall though I like this kit and if I can find a good hex set I’ll probably start assembling something very similar.
For low torque situations where the torx fits snugly, it will work fine in a hex fastener so for minimal EDC, I feel like torx can do the trick. If I need more power, I’d go with a set of Allen keys or at least proper hex bits
I have the Wera 813 without the R, so without the Rapidator locking bit holder, which is my ultralight and compact bit driver, as it's the size of a Bic lighter it sits nicely in the 5th pocket of my jeans. That, a Victorinox, and a Knipex Cobra XS works for me better than any Leatherman. I can always carry a small Victorinox (for scissors) and a folder like Spyderco Urban, Manly Wasp or Bokerplus Atlas with it if I want a dedicated and better blade. I also have the Hazet equivalent of the Wera 813R, the Hazet 810BHK, which has a similar locking bit holder on it, for harder jobs, but still pocketable or at least easily portable in a pouch or bag.
Great little setup. If you’re going to carry a pouch, separate tools can be much better than a multitool for sure. Been debating if the Hazet is worth getting…
@@todd.parker I think the Hazet is pretty reasonably priced in the US, around $10. I paid under £10 here in the UK for mine. They're actually made in Slovenia. Both Hazet and Gedore manufacture in Slovenia, whereas Wera manufacture in the Czech Republic, so the quality is good for all 3 brands. I also have dedicated screwdrivers from all 3 brands as well as from Wiha, Felo, CK (old made in Germany stock), Klauke and Witte, as I'm a sucker for German tool brands. Also some good ones from Bahco (made in Spain), Ega Master (Spanish) and Unior (Slovenia) as well as the main Japanese brands (Engineer, Anex and Vessel).
Note: The 813-R (Green/black handle) has a magnet. The 813-R ESD (yellow/black handle) does not have a magnet. I have the 813-R ESD and it locks on an engineer double sided Phillips/Slotted bit, but only in certain positions, and I don't know if it will work with other types, so the safest option is the one in the video.
Yep, that would be a smaller and lighter kit. The surge has a lot of heavy duty locking tools so it’s beefier but as long as you have a good blade, scissors, saw, and file that covers the basics
why carry a surge at all? the bits recommended here, a victorinox ranger, a small knipex plier and a wire cutter add up to less space than a leatherman with all it's accessories, and they'll work better.
If you don't want to splash out on the LM Surge, an affordable and effective alternative is the BiBury Pliers Pro: ua-cam.com/video/KAKpd_Z9Ru4/v-deo.html. It holds all the standard bits, which match what you have shown in this video. Well worth checking out!
I’ve never really liked the Surge. It’s just sort of a freakin monster in the overrall scheme of multi tools. And yeah, the Leatherman bits were nice for their space saving but man are they soft. Just nearly useless.
Dude tells you how to upgrade your surge, then proceeded to tell you to forget about the Surge, it's bits, then instead carry a standalone bit-driver... in addition to your surge. Kind of defeats the purpose of having a multitool. SMH.
Just because the bit driver is t the best doesn’t mean the pliers, cutters, knife, file,scissors, etc. aren’t good. Just one feature of many that you can do better with a proper driver and bits
The video is on accessories to _add_ to your Leatherman to make it more capable. There are already a million videos showing the features of the Wave+ and Surge, that's boring
Wrong. Should have bought the ratchet driver instead. Works way better and well I bought all the accessories when they were still cheap. I don't like your opinion and will continue to do what I like and use their bits , because they work just fine for a tinker
I love how Todd sets up his mini or micro EDC bags. Absolutely the best ideas.
You never fail to give me incredible ideas! Im 100% using that socket system
Thanks! I’ve been hoping to find a small set of sockets for this kit forever. Glad Klein came through with metric versions
Super useful video, that 711 ratchet is really cool!
For anyone interested, the Steinwhale Stubby 10 in 1 double-sided bits Todd introduced us to in a prior video fit perfectly in the 711L Lollipop driver. It's the perfect pocket screwdriver IMO.
The Lollipop is often discounted during Prime Days. I got the aluminum version for $44 in July on a 20% sale. The Steinwhale bits are always around $12, and include a great selection of metric hex, Torx, flat head and Phillips.
Link?
I think you just broke the internet with this one 😂. Really great video . I had to watch it 3 times .
Wow, thanks
I totally agree! Time to watch it again!
@@todd.parkerwhy the surge over the other options that exist? I have been working on my plan for this sort of kit for about a year now and this has to be the best video period I have seen. I have a tech kit I put together already. I have been working in tech for about 25 years.
@@todd.parker Just about finished with my EDC kit with some changes to make it for my needs and likes .
1. I had the PB Swiss swissgrip bit driver so I used that . Plus it’s small and works well .
2. The bits I decided to use a bunch of new one sided Milwaukee bits I had and I put them in a mini tin (1 3/4”X 2 1/2”) that I had.
3.. I decided not to go with the Leatherman and I replaced it with the Knipex 5” Cobra and I put in the Victorinox Rambler , the bantam , a small diamond file and a 220 piece of sand paper (for car batteries or whatever else )
4. The flip sockets are the same .
5. Same flashlight .
6. Extension magnet .
7. I purchased the 711L I got for $15 on Amazon sale , that fits the PB Swiss bit driver . It’s the hex ratchet.
8. Milwaukee 3ft tape measure .
9. Same pen .
10. Duct tape .
11. I added 4 zip ties , 2 mini and 2 small sizes .
12. I don’t have the Uncle Bill’s Clipper yet . It’s coming .
13. I added a pair of hospital gloves in a zip lock bag . A thin small hanky . Also a sharpie marker .
I think that’s it . Thanks again for the advice and an awesome video .
The thing that decided whether or not to include the Knipex is loose bolts. It's nice to have a second grabby thing to hold the head and keep it from spinning while I remove the nut. I don't have sockets in my setup though. I keep the 125mm knipex, wiha bits, a couple saw blades, the leatherman bit extender, a Rogan pry bar, a pen, a rovyvon a8, my cards and my keys and fob in a pouch that ends up being a little bulkier than an old school leather wallet, and my surge rides on a belt clip. I'm considering getting a small ratchet to throw in my lunch bag at some point, maybe a zyclops, but haven't gotten there yet.
Good point
thank you for this video. I'm a handyman, I don't always work out of a tool belt , I love this setup because I carry a lot of pocket tools that are heavy or big . your setup is wonderful thanks again for sharing
Todd, enjoyed the video. I ditched multi tools awhile back, and couldn’t be happier. They are heavy, and don’t really do any one thing well. Given you have a pouch with a bunch of other stuff in it, I’d love to see another video on how to ditch the multi tool altogether. And yes, you should keep the Knipex Cobras, even going up one size if it will fit.
Once you grow accustomed to the multitool it becomes irreplaceable tho.
So much so that i rather use my leatherman wave to tighten a screw next to the driverseat of my work van which got the trunk stuffed with all the proper tools.
My man just sold me on not buying a surge
It amazes me that barely anyone is offering a portable compact set of sockets. I had to make a socket holder out of electrical tape because I can't find a mini socket holder anywhere. There are plenty of EDC friendly bit holders out there, but no socket holders. So glad Klein is offering the flip sockets in metric. Think I'll have to get them in SAE & metric now.
I agree. I don't want to carry a big set of sockets around for EDC. Makita has a nice set in metric and imperial but that's about it. These Klein ones are nice because they are so compact
Check out Koken tools. They make the best mini sockets. 👍
Honestly if a multitool is too heavy to carry around on your person, just make a tool kit with dedicated tools. You’re going to have to go looking for it anyway when there’s a job to do. Small exception maybe for cycling/hiking when weight vs function matters, but in the car or around the house it’s not really a factor.
That’s true. As soon as you need a pouch, you can probably carry separate tools. This setup is a sweet spot for me because the Surge covers a lot of ground for high quality tools - locking knife, scissors, pliers, file, saw, etc. and separate tools would be bulkier so a mix of separate and multi-tools can lighten the load
I have a Knipex pliers wrench and Cobra instead of a Leatherman. The smallest and second smallest sizes of those feel pretty decent. I have the smallest pliers wrench and second smallest Cobra.
I have a Hoto 4mm driver with loads of bits in the handle. For smaller bits it’s perfect.
I use a small adjustable pair of wire strippers. I strip wires a lot so I like having a good stripper.
I have a Vessel Phillips ratchet. It’s a full size #2, but you can remove the Phillips shaft and stick other 1/4” hex bits.
Sounds like a super optimized kit, right up my alley
I carry my Leatherman 'just in case'. For regular work I use full size tools. When I buy a Leatherman, I choose those with full size fixed Philips, even if it means I have to settle for only 1 size.
Been looking for a small socket solution to pair with my Icon mini ratchet...glad you came across a solution for it! Great video! Simple and to the point.
I've actually been putting off watching this video out of fear, that I'll end up spending money. Interestingly, after watching, I'm somewhat surprised that there isn't really anything that I would add because I don't use my Surge in the same way you do. I have a Backpack Toolkit which pretty much goes with me everywhere, which weighs around 1.2kg. I weighed it, after watching the video, because I thought it would be around the same weight as your kit. It's a fully capable toolkit built around the Wera Tool Check. I'm really impressed with how much extra functionality you have gotten with the Surge as the centre piece in your kit and the weight to capability ratio is awesome.
Heh, sorry my videos make you spend money, my hope is to avoid buying the wrong stuff like I end up doing. You're right that this is different from a slightly larger toolkit so they are different use cases.
@@todd.parker there's no need to apologise, it's mainly been the little nudge I needed to take the plunge. The one featuring the Veto Pro Pac in particular. I think it's important to get the bad tools and the stuff that doesn't quite work to find the good ones and the stuff that does work. Also what works and what doesn't is so personal, whilst similarities will be present I suspect there are things that will be completely different.
The presta tools pick is also worth it. Tiny and a pick is sometimes the only thing that will work. Admittedly i have made a ultralight pick out of a bent bicycle spoke and some tape, but it was a pain.
I got a few ideas from the video. I ordered the Klein sockets. It is really nice that they are impact rated. I had never though about the overlap between imperial and metric allowing for a bunch of sizes to be eliminated.
something i always say about the wave, surge, skeletool, etc, all of which i own, is they are really great for pistol grip
The Hurricane 1/4” hex X-Acto “adapters” is another good add on that allows the wera 813R to be used as a craft knife handle.
Great stuff, Todd. Love the Lollipop! FWIW You can trim those flip sockets down to 3 if you want. 8/10 that came on the short shank (for M5/M6 bolts), the 13/14 socket (for M8, 5/16 and 3/8 bolts) from the long shank and 7/16-1/2 socket (for M7 and 1/4 bolts) from the imperial. You'd lose out on the 7mm and 12mm sockets which are fairly uncommon.
Great tip!
Awesome, thanks for sharing it.
Great little kit. I recently started carrying the same Wera Driver, 711l ratchet , bit extender/bit kit and Knipex 4 inch Pliers wrench along with my Charge +. Compliments it very well, and compact enough to still keep on your belt with the stock sheath.
If im going for EDC (which generally youd want to slim your carry as you are intending to carry it everyday) im taking the surge, leatherman bitkit, and the ratcheting leatherman extension. Ive found the more things i try to encorporate into my EDC the less and less i actually use my EDC because it becomes a hassle or weighs me down from all the stuff im carrying.
The whia driver, sockets and additional bits are great suggestions but for me would be stored in a tool bag somewhere when i need soemthing a little bit more than everyday tools.
Check out the BAUER 6 ft. x 1/2 in. Keychain Tape Measure from Harbor Freight - it is only $1-2 and doubles the usable length of the 3' Stanley for the same compact foot print. It may also be lighter weight with a plastic housing instead of metal.
Thanks for sharing!
love this video! i’m definitely gonna check out your recommendations!
Wow this is incredible! Add that klein socket set to mz victorinox spirit ratchet set, I get a perfect bike tool set.
Todd, would you consider the "Klein Metric Flip Socket set" (with or without the Klein short adapter with 8/10mm socket) as an across the board replacement for the "Makita 8 Pc. 1/4" Impact Socket Set, Metric" featured in your "Affordable (and better) ToolCheck Plus alternatives for EDC + toolkits" video from 10 months ago?
They both fill the same role of a compact, minimal set of sockets for EDC. The Makita has some smaller sizes like 6 and 11 that the Klein doesn't have but Klein has 14mm which I think is important but it comes down to what kind of bolts you typically run into. If you have the space, getting a full 1/4 set with no skips like the HF I seven better but obviously much heavier
Great video and awesome info! You should also check out the Wera 838 RA-R M … it’s very compact and it’s ratcheting to save even more space and the possibility of losing the ratchet. The non rapidaptor version is even smaller too but still has ratcheting. I have the 813 R and the 838 RA-R M, both are great.
I second this. I bought 838 RA-R M and I love it so much. It's unique racheting function is the most intuitive design I've ever seen. So, I got the 838 RA S (non rapidaptor version) too. I use 816 RA and PB Swiss Tools 8510R-100 for heavier duty but I think 838 RA S is a really great EDC driver handle.
Thanks for the recommendation, just picked up the 838 and it’s great. I wish it was a bit deeper so it would work with the Wiha double sided bits but for standard bits, it’s slick
@@jonathanm2396 just ordered the Rapidapter version to test too (my poor bank account). I think that may be the winner because it will hold the Wiha double sided bits while the simpler version won’t. The rachet ring selector is genius. Good stuff.
@@todd.parker Awesome, I hope you like it! I totally agree and is exactly what I use mine for. Even though its a bit larger than the 813R, the wiha bits fit perfectly and maximize the capability for the space. A comparison video of all three using your system would be sick and might help with the bank account a little lol.
@@mlim4646 definitely want to get my hands on the non rapidaptor one as well just to round out the selection lol
So basically you don’t really need the surge, it’s totally redundant as far as drivers go
The tools in the Surge are awesome but the bit driver is just “ok” so doubling down on the expensive bit kit isn’t as good of an investment as buying the Wiha bits and Wra handle as far as ergonomics go. That’s my opinion anyway
I've never liked multiple so this really want for me. What it did show me is that I could get almost all the same functionally with a small swiss army, bit driver and tiny knipex. The only thing really missing is saw blade functionality and needle nose. I don't know how necessary those two are but I might go out looking for a way to get those two missing things. Hopefully I'll end up with a similarly weighted and sized alternative to the multi tool.
@@noahwithana4149the Toolan multiblade hacksaw seems like a good affordable one from some videos I've watched
@@noahwithana4149 the cobra SX’s tip is fairly small and will reach 80~90% of what a surge can reach.
Otherwise a pair of Knipex 25-01-125 (61 HRC) paired with a 87-01-125 cobra is stronger, lighter, and smaller footprint than a Leatherman
@@todd.parker I’m finding that a mix of your ultra light set up combined with a modular custom toolset on the Roxon Flex is just about the perfect edc.
The Steinwhale bits cover everything bar recessed Philips fasteners, that is covered by the Roxon flex.
I carry the Knipex xs, in combination with Flex needle nose pliers/wire cutters, dream team against nut and bolt combinations.
As always, a superior video with outstanding ideas and premier production! A pleasure to watch!
A suggestion: You made a video a while back on medication kits, mentioning small pill plastic zip-top bags. I purchased a kit of those, and find that I like to include one or two in all tool kits. It gives me a place to put very small parts (washers, nuts, screws, etc.) so I don't lose them while working. Or worse--drop them on the ground, never to be seen again!
Good idea on using the bag to keep nuts and bolts
As always, great process & kit. I’d consider using a small “tactical” pouch such as from condor, maxpedition, etc with external MOLLE straps for attachment to oneself (belt, etc) or attachment of things while using, for example.
one thing about the wiha bits is that theres a couple different versions of the reload sets, 4 total different ones on their site, the regular, and ones for tradesman, industrial, and technicians.
as for the 711L, i believe they're coming out with a smaller inline ratchet too really soon, they already have one bit its too big imo.
Security bits are my preference since they work on both. The Security reload 77783 and Technicians reload 77781 make a great combo.. There's a little overlap especially in the Torx, but you get about 20 or 21 distinct bits between the two that cover the gamut.
Definitely some good ideas for my Surge! With everything in the pouch, though, instead of the Surge, you could just add the knipex cobra, a military surplus P38 can opener, the gerber paraframe knife (mini, etc), maybe some small sewing scissors and a small saw. Beyond a pair of diamond pliers, that covers everything the Surge can do!
Yep. You could go separate tools for everything. I do love my Surge tho
I don't have the Surge but I do have the Leatherman ratcheting bit holder that works very well!
Lucky you. I snagged one during the last restock but I know most people can’t get one right now
Looks like Leatherman is not as useful and responsive as they used to be. Appreciate showing the affordable options!
Sure thing, glad it was helpful.
An affordable and effective alternative to the LM Surge is the BiBury Pliers Pro: ua-cam.com/video/KAKpd_Z9Ru4/v-deo.html. It holds all the standard bits shown in this video. Well worth checking out!
great setup. watched it once and then marked it to watch again later. I have the Leatherman crunch though and feel like it's the perfect multitool over the surge, but it's expensive to buy on ebay.
Great video, thanks. Check out the 6’ Milwaukee tape measure. Similar size to the 3’ Stanley and has dual markings with fractions. It’s been in my pocket for over a year and still going strong.
I got Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite DX and love it
I didn’t know a surge could take a pocket clip. Which one do you have on and did you have to do any modifications for it to fit?
Yep! There is an official Leatherman one for $10 on sale now and a few 3rd party versions too. It's a big boy to carry with a clip but you can! amzn.to/4ihNTLg
Not gonna lie, after getting the stuff in your hyper light edc, with the modern carry wallet, the 711 ratchet and all that, I actually don't feel nearly as interested by this as I usually am by this type of thing, the hyper light edc is just too good between size, weight, and versatility
That’s cool to hear. That kit packs a ton of functionality in something much lighter than this. I keep this on hand for when my EDC isn’t enough (missing sockets, saw, file) and my toolbar would be overkill. Just threw this in my bag this weekend just in case
If I understand correctly you have an old version of Leatherman bit holder in the video, now a new version with a magnet inside is available and wiha double-sided bits are perfect for it. Try it, highly recommended
Oh, interesting. This bit holder does work well with the double sided bits too but I should check on the magnet situation
@@todd.parker yes, the old version and its counterparts work, but they use a spring inside the holder to keep the bits in place, which makes it not so convenient to install compared to a magnetic holder. when I tried the new version, I sold the old one right away :)
Cool. I wonder if the knockoffs use the magnet. Might need to test them…
@@todd.parker sorry, maybe you misunderstood me, the old leatherman version and the knockoffs do not use a magnet. the new version of the holder can be compared to the reatchet drive (which also uses a magnet).
1. For someone who already has standard 1/4" sockets, what do you recommend for organizing the 6 or so in an EDC kit? Too bad you can't buy something like Makita uses for its small sets. 2. How did you originally land on the Quinn 1/4" sockets? Cheap, light, and included the lightweight plastic rail?
It’s tricky, I haven’t found a good socket storage solution. Like you said the Makita is nice but if you already have sockets maybe look for a plastic rail you can cut to length. I was working on a HF toolkit and saw how affordable their racket and sockets were and they are pretty similar to other brands
Really great analysis, build-out!
What a great video with many amazing thoughts! Always enjoy watching your footage! Many greetings from Germany! Have an awesome weekend!
Thank you! You too!
We are makin it out the garage with this one.
the last time i had seen a surge still oiled and this new was when i got my repair replacement :D
Maybe I didn’t show it close up, finish is pretty beat. Black oxide gets scuffed up pretty quick but looks cool
Great content Todd.
So what do you do for hex key/Allen screws? From what I could see online, the Wiha set covers all the other bits in the Leatherman set (plus a few more) but had zero hex bits. Overall though I like this kit and if I can find a good hex set I’ll probably start assembling something very similar.
For low torque situations where the torx fits snugly, it will work fine in a hex fastener so for minimal EDC, I feel like torx can do the trick. If I need more power, I’d go with a set of Allen keys or at least proper hex bits
Great search, finds and taught process 😮
I would swap out the surge for the sog powerpint. Center drive 1/4 inch driver. better pliers. much smaller and lighter.
I have the Wera 813 without the R, so without the Rapidator locking bit holder, which is my ultralight and compact bit driver, as it's the size of a Bic lighter it sits nicely in the 5th pocket of my jeans. That, a Victorinox, and a Knipex Cobra XS works for me better than any Leatherman. I can always carry a small Victorinox (for scissors) and a folder like Spyderco Urban, Manly Wasp or Bokerplus Atlas with it if I want a dedicated and better blade.
I also have the Hazet equivalent of the Wera 813R, the Hazet 810BHK, which has a similar locking bit holder on it, for harder jobs, but still pocketable or at least easily portable in a pouch or bag.
Great little setup. If you’re going to carry a pouch, separate tools can be much better than a multitool for sure. Been debating if the Hazet is worth getting…
@@todd.parker I think the Hazet is pretty reasonably priced in the US, around $10. I paid under £10 here in the UK for mine. They're actually made in Slovenia. Both Hazet and Gedore manufacture in Slovenia, whereas Wera manufacture in the Czech Republic, so the quality is good for all 3 brands. I also have dedicated screwdrivers from all 3 brands as well as from Wiha, Felo, CK (old made in Germany stock), Klauke and Witte, as I'm a sucker for German tool brands. Also some good ones from Bahco (made in Spain), Ega Master (Spanish) and Unior (Slovenia) as well as the main Japanese brands (Engineer, Anex and Vessel).
Multitool nerd Tetris, i like it. 😁
The biggest flex of this video is that highly organized "junk drawer"
Would you expect anything else??
@@todd.parker No...just jealous.
missing the allen key bits now though
Note:
The 813-R (Green/black handle) has a magnet.
The 813-R ESD (yellow/black handle) does not have a magnet.
I have the 813-R ESD and it locks on an engineer double sided Phillips/Slotted bit, but only in certain positions, and I don't know if it will work with other types, so the safest option is the one in the video.
You should check out the New wera Christmas Calendar! Its Almost the Tools You got there in one organizer
Have you ever checked out sog multi tools?
I have. They're ok but I haven't been super impressed with the build quality.
Nice video
May I suggest the tape measure for $0.99 from Harbor Freight? It is the thinnest and lightest ever, both metric and SAE, and it is 10 feet long.
Such a nice kit!
Nice... I only need the link for the Saw's... 😅
Oops. amzn.to/3NpQJiW
nice
What do you think of this setup with a Victorinox Ranger and a pair of Knipex XS pliers instead of the Leatherman Surge?
Yep, that would be a smaller and lighter kit. The surge has a lot of heavy duty locking tools so it’s beefier but as long as you have a good blade, scissors, saw, and file that covers the basics
M7 bolts are not used anywhere, swap the 11 socket for 6 & 7, especially 7 is usable quite often.
Awesome video!!!
You can fix a space shuttle with this kit
you could have just have bought the Tool Check Plus a Cobra XS and some sort of a knife or box cutter.....
Wave+ or Surge, Todd? Your link goes directly to the Wave+ for $120. The Surge is $150
Thanks for the heads up! I changed it to this: amzn.to/3NpZtW8
One question from a non-native English speaker: What does „EDC“ stand for?
Every day carry
Fun fact about this video: the Leatherman surge had less screen time than Scarlett Johansson's peanut butter sandwich in avengers endgame.
why carry a surge at all? the bits recommended here, a victorinox ranger, a small knipex plier and a wire cutter add up to less space than a leatherman with all it's accessories, and they'll work better.
I was wondering how i stumbled across this channel i was trying to figure out what you are lol my boss goes hes a tool weirdo
Ha, that's going to be my new title: "tool weirdo"
Mr. Todd - the Surge affiliate link needs to be fixed. Cheers.
Thanks for the heads up! I changed it to this: amzn.to/3NpZtW8
If you don't want to splash out on the LM Surge, an affordable and effective alternative is the BiBury Pliers Pro: ua-cam.com/video/KAKpd_Z9Ru4/v-deo.html. It holds all the standard bits, which match what you have shown in this video. Well worth checking out!
So.. You dont need the Leatherman at all lol.. Just add some mini knipex and you are good.
Heh, not exactly because even with the knipex the Surge gives you a knife, saw, file, scissors, awl, etc but I get your point
14mm socket is not that usefull. 8/10/13 mm is already a great combo.
In Europe though
Every multitool is funny to see on the shelf, but basically just need only some knipex mini cobra and sabertooth ratchet.
big
Everytime i look at leatherman gear their prices have gone up.
I’ve never really liked the Surge. It’s just sort of a freakin monster in the overrall scheme of multi tools.
And yeah, the Leatherman bits were nice for their space saving but man are they soft. Just nearly useless.
Or get a Crunch and ditch half that stuff.
I wish I got a Crunch before they were discontinued. They are wildly overpriced and hard to find now.
First. Edit: Oh darn
Good darn, I hope?
@@todd.parker Great stuff as always! Just bought a few items :D
@@Dracomies heh, awesome
More money than common sense
These are not accessories... Theyre just... Separate tools..
Dude tells you how to upgrade your surge, then proceeded to tell you to forget about the Surge, it's bits, then instead carry a standalone bit-driver... in addition to your surge. Kind of defeats the purpose of having a multitool. SMH.
Just because the bit driver is t the best doesn’t mean the pliers, cutters, knife, file,scissors, etc. aren’t good. Just one feature of many that you can do better with a proper driver and bits
Awful video you say nothing about Leatherman
The video is on accessories to _add_ to your Leatherman to make it more capable. There are already a million videos showing the features of the Wave+ and Surge, that's boring
Wrong. Should have bought the ratchet driver instead. Works way better and well I bought all the accessories when they were still cheap. I don't like your opinion and will continue to do what I like and use their bits , because they work just fine for a tinker