Such a good video...and I agree basically 100% with all things said here. I need to add 1 other crucial factor: How are you going to carry it? I personally have no qualms edcing a surge on my belt, but not everyone would carry it.
I use a system of pouches for a everyday rotation (edr). I carry a belt pouch (fannypack) for my morning dog walk/hike. On my return I swap this out for my vest for errands/shopping/work. In the afternoon this is traded for my belted yardwork pouch or shop apron depending on my schedule. The evening makes me reach for my clamshell hobby kit while I watch tv. You can have it all but you do not have to carry it all at once.🇨🇦🧰
Not including the rest of my edc and only listing off the multi tool aspect of my edc: I'm usually always with a Cybertool S, Knipex 125 Cobra, and a 6" mini pry tool. Mostly I'm working on any tasks found new home construction........."mostly"..... This combo has definitely saved me more than a few trips back to the truck. From permitting, framing, plumbing/hvac/electric, insulation, drywall, painting, finish carpentry, landscaping and beyond this multi tool combo has proven its worth time and again!
I used to EDC a Leatherman Wave, but have come to appreciate Victorinox and have been carrying the Swiss Champ for the last two years. Like many I’ve modified it to my liking (added 2 more slots in the scales for a set of fine point tweezers and Firefly flint, ground the small blade to a whittling blade for better precision) and use it practically daily. I grew up watching my grandfather fix almost everything with his Swiss Army knife so Victorinox holds some sentimental value to me as well. On the SwissChamp key ring I have a Streamlight Pocketmate which has been extremely useful as well. 100-325 lumens in a small package, and a clip that doubles as both a pocket clip for the light and Victorinox as well as a way to clip the light to the brim of a hat for the use of both hands. The Leatherman wave sits in the tool kit (Maxpedition Mini) of my flight bag along with the bit kits, ratchet adapters, both 4” Knipex plier versions, and some tape. This kit gets used for more heavy duty tasks such as oil changes, or miscellaneous repairs. I really love how much Leatherman has opened up the door for opportunities with the bit kits and ratchet parts. For me they complete the Leatherman Wave, and I can no longer carry the Wave without them. While it’s the combination of the kit which just becomes a bit too much for a pocket carry, I always have them close by.
I'm a airplane pilot and mechanic operating in the Quebec wilderness. I have my big tool kit at base for big maintenance, but i always carry a leatherman Wave, good flashlight, couples of tie-wraps, a spool of safety wires, a spool of lacing and duck tape. Got me out of little trouble numerous times.
@@JeronimoStilton14 can be use to attach thing in a pinch. But also lots of bolts on aircraft are locked tight with safety wire so if i need to unscrew some to gain acces for a repair, i can relocked them after.
My recently discovered daily is great for me. I split my wave (one handle with knife, sac scissors, can opener and bit driver. I am butchering a mini pry bar to install on the plier pivot) I also carry a pocket organiser which has mini cobra pliers, 1/4” bit adapter and a couple of bits. A mini bic lighter, Chapstick and some zip ties. The only thing it can’t do is cut wire, which I can’t think of the last time I had to do that outside of work. Carry what you use, use what you carry. I think I’ve finally gotten it right for myself 👌
My EDC consists of my keys, my phone which has a Pop Socket 3 card wallet on the back, and Victorinox Manager that I keep in my 5th pocket.To date, this is my perfect setup. I just don't require much. I only mention this VERY minimal carry because it's too easy to get caught up in the chase for gear, the status, the flex of how much your carry costs, the Instagram pictures, and making sure everything matches and has Velcro patches and beads on Paracord lanyards... It's so easy to forget just how not-actually-demanding an average person's daily demands are. I really respect this video because it really pushes the core concept of digging into what your actual demands are, and gearing up based on that. I keep a loaded EDC kit in my car, which means I personally don't need to carry everything for every occasion because I live in a small city and I'm never terribly far away from my car. Shedding my "every occasion all at once" great was VERY difficult and bizarre for me. But once I got used to carrying much less weight, pockets being mostly empty so my pants actually looked nice on me, and belt items not getting caught on the environment/pocketed items digging into my leg every time I sat down... I can't go back. And I've not needed a single thing I let go since I minimized over a year ago. Anyway, constantly challenge yourself and your carry. Do lots of online windows shopping. See if you can streamline, or gain efficiency. It's a fun exercise, and you never know what you'll learn. And your pockets might just thank you. ❤️ Such a great introspective video. Thank you for highlighting thought process, insight, and efficiency, rather than "Here's the next trying you can't live without and you'll be a disappointment to everyone if you don't have it!" That's the absolute worst part of the EDC "community". Carry what you'll use, and use what you carry. Peace. ❤️
I carry a Leatherman charge tti and it works great for me. I get use out of all the functions between my work and my hobbies. I’ve started carrying it 24/7 the last year. My only regret is I bought it when they first came out and I don’t have the replaceable wire cutters. The molded in ones are bad. I carry a gerber dime in my pocket over 10 years now. It’s great for splinters, cleaning nails, light tool use, and having an easy to sharpen “sacrificial” blade. I’ll use that for cutting stuff that may nick a better blade etc. The charge tti file is also perfect for quick sharpening other blades. One side is super fine for metal.
I use the middle opening in the Leatherman Surge when camping to attach the gas lines to the grills and cookers to make sure their tight. They work great if you dont have some pluming pliers on hand.
Pioneer X on a dangler every day at work. At home, a folder and a SAK Cadet in the fifth pocket. It’s all I need. I always have tools close by when I need them.
Most of the time now, i carry a victorinox classic alox in my left front pocket, along with a short carpenter pencil and mini bic lighter. Benchmade Mini Osborne in right rear pocket. Wallet in right cargo pocket. And, Benchmade Anonimus in front right pocket. At work i also keep a Leatherman Curl handy.
I do building maintenance, my surge is almost the perfect multitool. The only things I wish is for a better knife steel and the free mechanics. The upcoming Ark could possibly be the perfect multitool
The center of my EDC is a Signal in a Yellow Birch Outfitters pouch with my MicroStream, a dual tip Fine/Extra-Fine Sharpie, long/slim hand sanitizer 10ml spray bottle with business cards, a blank check, index card and a Write in the Rain mini notebook inside the zipper. More gear rotates peripherally (fixed blade, pistol, bigger light, often a second cargo thigh pocket pouch with spare mag, OC gel & TQ) and I’ve trimmed the wallet back to just ID/credit cards, mixed cash and a couple adhesive bandages in a Crabby wallet. An automatic timepiece (Tudor Black Bay mostly this year) and my iPhone bookend everything on my person, with anything else off body in a bag or sling.
A few years back, was watching a video on an archaeological dig at Hadrian's wall. They found what can only be called a multitool. They don't know what or who it was for. So we're only keeping the tradition going. Great content. Keep up the great work. Thanks man
I love the surge. I own two that I will swap parts to make black/silver combos. The awl, bit kit, wire cutter and pliers are used most. I have to MacGyver solutions a great deal. "Did you fix it?" "No, but it is working. Jury-rigged is not the same as fixed. I will fix it, but right now it's merely working" The serrated blade can take abuse I don't want to use my real knife for. Zack you're 100% correct about there being no perfect tool. The MUT is great but it's more useful as a range tool than an general repair tool, and vise versa
My usual go-to set up (and what I carry while working): Leatherman Rebar, Olight Warrior Mini 2, and my new favorite knife, the Kizer Chili Pepper. On your recommendations, I started filling out an Alpaca gear pouch with small, lightweight, but still robust items as a grab-and-go sort of thing for outside of work. So far: Knipex mini pliers, Exceed Designs Tirant v3 utility knife, new titanium version of the FourSevens Preon 1 mk3, Big Idea Pocket Bit, Big Idea Mini Click Pen (with some random folded paper), TecAccessories ti-tape, and a Wazoo whistle. All getting packed into a single pouch and weighing under 8oz if I did my math correctly. Outside of work, I don't really use tools all that often, so this set up suffices. Only downside to this is I really end up missing my bigger light because of the greater functionality.
Awesome video! I have been developing my EDC ever since I found your channel, currently in my pocket I carry the Leatherman Free K4 and Knafs Lander 1. In my EDC I carry the Leatherman Garage 40 anniversary, a sleeve of leather man bits and the ratcheting driver as well as the Milwaukee 1505! I know the 40 anniversary is an expensive EDC but it literally has everything and was past of its concept by putting together all the favourite leather man tools on one multitool!
Great video Zac and Jamie. I've been into victorinox for a long time, since I was a kid, and I've always carried at least one with me. Currently, a Minichamp lives on my keys as a backup and for small tasks (cutting strings, grooming, writing something with the pen), and as a primary I rotate between a Tinker, Spartan, Cadet and Pioneer X. Depending on the situation, for everything else.
When I was a young boy I carried the victorinox, but I destroyed too many of them. Broke the scales off them, over torqued the driver, separated all the layers prying. They are good if you don't use them hard.
@@nunninkav I agree. I've destroyed a couple too. Once I used a Tinker to install a TV rack and destroyed it. But for light duty EDC tasks they are great.
All Leatherman. Squirt and Signal are my go to MT's. That combo has everything I need when in a pinch. Thinking strongly about the Curl. It's a good middle ground to replace both if I don't need the hammer or saw.
I’ve had a squirt since I was 8 I’m now 21 and it’s still kicking. I used it for Boy Scouts for a long time and now i rock it on my truck keys. Used it for so many things and always great to have in a pinch
The only multitools I got are the Gerber Dime in all black, which I got gifted, and my old Victorinox camo Spartan, which I got from an old friend 20 years ago. So I will not have something to add to this, but I am still enjoying watching! Oh wait, I did do some things to my Spartan back in the day: I ground an edge on the flat head / pry bar, so I can chisel with it. I also sharpened the hell out of the can opener and I also gave the awl a decent edge, and I made the cork screw more pointy. After I restored it last year I also put in that micro screw driver in the cork screw and new tweezers and a new tooth pick. It's in my useful things pouch now, which I occasionally throw into my backpack and always have on my desk. It's also good for around the house stuff, so I don't have to walk about as much to get things.
Thanks for coming into my RUclips life and really making fun, enjoyable content. You are one of my main channels I go to and watch it all. Honestly and truly you and your channel have positively impacted me and how I feel. Keep up the great work and I’ll keep watching!
LOVE YOU ZACH. LOVE YOUR PASSION FOR EDC ❣️ been watching since your early bladehq days and you’re definitely and rightfully responsible for my own passion for edc, specifically knives up until now.. gonna look into multitools!
I don't need a lot of hard tools during the day working in IT so I carry a squirt ps4 on my keys, and have an extra one always from ebay. I have a bic pen that i cut down to size on my keys also, as well as a gerber shard for prying and an small olight I1r2. I love key carry cause it doesn't get in the way of anything and I have my multitool, writing impliment, prytool, and light all in one ring.
I’m a diehard Leatherman guy and I love my Squirt but I bought the Gerber Dime a few months ago and I love it even more. That being said, nothing Gerber has right now will replace my Leatherman Wave which is in my EDC.
Love it Zac and Jamie!! EDC and specifically multi tools ☺️😍 Pro tip 😉 : The nail file/flat head on a classic SD is great for getting pocket clips off flashlights. My new Prometheus Design Werx pry bar is a great multi tool - pry bar, large flat driver, bottle opener, scraper, 1/4 bit holder, fire steel striker and Amazon box opener just about. That along with my Nail Clip 580, Real Steel Luna and Thrunite Archer mini I’m ready for the day (until I get to work haha). My Surge was worth its weight in gold for the 4 years I was a general construction labourer. I’d highly highly recommend anyone working in construction getting one. Especially as a labourer or apprentice starting out you’ll instantly be 100x more useful.
Hey Zac! I'm a Machinist by trade, since watching your videos I've been trying out the victorinox compact and I absolutely love it! It's great for little tasks when I'm away from my tool box and all my specialized tools that allow me to do my job. I can definitely speak to how well the pin and tweezers work at removing splinters! Before the compact I used to used the tips of my calipers to remove splinters and it worked well, but the pin tweezers combo is far superior! The pen on the compact has saved me on numerous occasions as I'm always loosing my pen! Along with the compact I carry an olight microstream (with a hair band - much thanks for that hack I love it), a fisher space pen, when I remember to put it back in my pocket lol, and a tube of chapstick that I have electrical tape wrapped around it for minor cuts and when I need to keep two things together. Absolutely love your videos, it's so nice to see tips and tricks from a likeminded individual! Steve from Canada
Big fan of the SOG Powerpint. For the solution for the driver, i have a small bit kit and the Leatherman Ratcheting Driver. It fits in the hex bit thats found on the top when the tool is folded away. Taylor Martin does that too and honestly is so handy. If i need a bigger multi tool, I have a Leatherman Super Tool from 1997 I bought second hand from Cashies (Cash Converters here in Australia) and thats worked well in most cases! Just needed some TLC but its working fantastic.
my daily work multitool is the super tool 300. Great tool, love the size and lighter than the surge. My home edc is the Victorinox sentinel combined with a leatherman super tool original Love your videos man, keeper up the good work
Thanks Zach, great content as always. I’m a super Tinker or Field Master SAK and Knipex XS or 125 guy myself. So very similar to yourself. They can pretty much 98% of my daily needs. Love the compact.
I need a “friendly” multi tool at work so I carry the tinker at work. It gets a ton of use and no one questions me when I pull it out. On the weekends, I rotate between the signal and the p2 free.
Currently carrying the Leatherman 40th Anniversary multitool as my EDC after 5 years of carrying a Free P2. I love the one-hand operable mechanism the Free system offers and I don't work in an environment with a lot of small metal shards (like some trades), so the magnets in the tool aren't really a downside for me. The only things that I would add to the Free P2 would be the bit drivers and spring action pliers. The 40th Anniversary Tool did exactly that and I've been loving it ever since!
@@edwardfletcher7790 no it's not lol. The 40th anniversary tool is a garage release (released back in July) and the ARC is a completely different production multitool that released yesterday. Don't know why you are trying to correct me when you don't have the first clue on which tool is which.
I EDC a Leatherman Skeletool, Leatherman Broozer and a Victorinox Rambler. If I know I'm going to be doing a lot of cutting or don't need a big multitool, I'll throw in my Gerber Prybrid. It's been a very good setup for what I need/do.
I carry the Victorinox Deluxe Tinker. I have found it has everything I need, including pliers, and is so much smaller than the Leatherman-like multi tools. Yes, the pliers are smaller, but they still get the job done for most things I need pliers for on the fly. And it has the full Philips head screwdriver instead of the corkscrew. I also put Micarta scales on mine.
Hey Zac I'm a camera nerd and i know you use that Sony Alpha 7 camera. Video quality looks so good in 2160! I carry a LM free p4 with a custom bit driver on it. I own multiple LM's and a Gerber center drive +. Ordering a Surge to try out. Would like to add a Victorinox Swiss tool to my collection as well. Thanks for the video!
@16:35 The SOG power pint does have a replaceable driver. The point where the pliers meet when the tool is closed is shaped to accept a driver bit. It has been my most consistent pocket carry for a year and a half and has never broken
I carry a Spyderco UKPK or Byrd Tern (legalities) for general cutting, a Leatherman Squirt P4 for tinkering, a Victorinox Alox Cadet (with the new file variant) mainly for food, a Swisscard Nailcare, and a Sanrenmu A123 as a loaner knife. If more plier power is called for, I would complement this with a Victorinox Swisstool Spirit (the one with the serrated knife blade), a Leatherman Bond, or a Knipex Cobra XS. If I need a dedicated beater, I take my Victorinox Huntsman or one of several old-school trad. slipjoints; a Mora/Hultafors for harder tasks... I also have dedicated food prep knives that I take on picknicks or BBQ/cooking w/ friends... there are some more tools for even more specific occasions, but that should suffice, I guess.
I carry the knipex 5 inch pliers and a Stanley multiple head driver. I had a Grrber dime and had an emergency were the pliers broke. So that is why I now carry the two part kit.
I bought a couple dozen multitools (everything currently available from Leatherman, victorinox MX clip, swisstool, gerber 600c dual force, some generics, and a PowerPoint) and a few dozen SAKs and some other knives trying to find the “ideal” thing for me to carry. If the internet said it was good, I bought it. Previously, I carried the Milwaukee 5 in 1 (the one with the combo blade, not the utility blade). It worked great, it was not too big or heavy, but I keep needing pliers. I really like the signal, BUT I wish the awl was a 1/4 flat screwdriver/pry tool and I use a file more than a saw. The hammer function is nice and I really like the pliers better than the wave. Wave is too wide, surge is too big and heavy? Supertool 300 is too big and no pocket clip and no one handed knife, rebar no one handed knife or clip, P2 not a great driver, same with bolster/sidekick/wingman, MX clip the knife blade is too small, swisstool no one handed knife, bond is pretty nice, so is a vintage PST or sideclip, skeletool the pliers don’t fall open and are stiff (ordered two, can’t get either to work the way I want). At the end of the day I landed on the curl. It’s a little heavy, but it has what I need and not much else. I will probably swap the head out for one out of a rebar/signal if that’s possible, if not one out of a wave because the non-replaceable cutters stick a little when closed. Anyway, not sure there is a point to this and I would probably have been fine with my Milwaukee and have not spent so much money, but hey, one man’s view. Keep up the great content Zac.
I EDC a Vic Compact (mine is older, no pin), a Vic Ambassador (larger than the classic, the scissors are better than any other on the market, great for hand/nail maintenance in the field), and a Leatherman Style PS. no knife but the pliers are handy. In my pack is a Leatherman Wave. One knife that I grab if I'm doing repair work around the house is the Kershaw Selectfire. Larger-sized blade with a driver function and space to store 4 bits.
I love this video so much, as a boy scout I personally use my lettermen signal the most but just like what Zac said different tools are for different things
I carry a dedicated utility knife, BigIdeaDesign inline driver, knipex 5" pliers, with a #2 pry bar from BFB, additionally I use Klien Tools Electrician scissors all stored in an arc company marksman (I believe) slip pouch. Everything is dedicated but can be accompanied by extra hex bits, extenders, and dedicated knives. It's definitely my core edc.
My EDC for years has been a Leatherman Super Tool 300 on my belt. Honestly, I've been considering downsizing to something pocketable (or in a pouch like my Mulepak). Great timing to give me some food for thought.
Hi, nice video. I think the SOG Powerpint fits standart hex bits on the backside of where the pliers fold out (even leatherman bits an extenders maybe?). That would alleviate it's downside and make it near perfect for your needs.
I found my three favorites. Firstly the Victorinox Swisschamp. I carry it daily as an EDC on my belt. As a backup in my Chest Bag, I always carry a second EDC with me and it is the Letharman Wave with all the bits, the regular bit holder and the ratchet bit holder. If I know I'm going to do heavy work, go for number 3, the Leatherman Surge, which I love but it's a little heavy and that's why I leave it at home and only use it when I know the job suggests something stronger. But I always go with the Swisschamp and the Wave.
Böker Atlas rocks. I am no fan of Böker, but the Atlas was a real positive suprise. I have two EDC kits housed in a pocket organizer you know very well and triggered me to buy: Alpaka Zip pouch Pro. Eorks amazing as a compact pocket kit for me. Configuration 1: Leatherman Squirt with pliers (I need them on me just to have the option), Böker Atlas for bigger German legal 42a blade and great big scissors plus a AAA flashlight and Configuration 2 (heavier): Leatherman PST II plus slim fixed blade and AAA flashlight. PST II is great for me, serious pliers, plade twohanded and inside, secured against folding when handles closed, slim profile … real downside are the shark scale edges digging into your hand while plying. Ither than that my favourite compact multitool. Standalone I carry a Victorinox Deluxe Tinker for the (crappy) pliers, updated with scales for ballpen mine. But I more and more tend to SD Clasdic or buying a Compact.
I really enjoy your videos. Have never found the right multitool for me. Carry a leatherman wave ( the original one, not a +) for work, along with an 8 inch crescent wrench, handles my needs pretty well. Out of work, I carry a little maxpedition pocket organizer with a pair of knipix a small driver that is marketed as a bicycle tool with a small selection of bits and a very very old schrade prybar that has an open end box wrench and a closed one. That little pouch I primarily carry to deal with little odds and ends when I go by my parents house.
Great video. Love the content. I am in the automobile sales business. I have been carrying a leather man piranha 2. It is great for scraping things and for removing plates. Reach for it daily. Not sure if I would use a full size but I am thinking about it.
Dude, this channel really made me upgrade my edc kit and would love to show you and get feedback! Went from a regular mechanic to the shop batman, haha. Hands down though, all time favorite tried and true multi-tool would be my leatherman surge. The one thing i can never go a Day without
I’ve had a Leatherman curl for a few years now, and it’s been a nice balance of size and portability with the utility. I can stick it in my pocket with the pocket clip instead of having to wear a belt sheath.
That Gerber does look perfect for the car. The scissors on the Boker look sweet. That is one of the most used tools on my (now broken) gerber dime, cutting my nails! I take a Collagen supplement daily, it makes my finger nails grow like weeds, so I often notice they are getting long.
This is the video that broke the news to me that the leatherman squirt has been discontinued. If I lose mine it will be very hard to convince my father that he lost his red one at the same time that i just happened to spray paint my black one red...
I totally agree with the prying bit tbh, my go-to is the Milwaukee demolition screwdriver and it does a far, far better job than any multi tool ever has. Its thin enough to get into places, strong enough that it can be really man handled, has a through-tang so it can be hammered on and the handle can be wrenched on. Its so good that if I have even a slight suspicion that I will need a pry bar, I take it with me in addition to a multi tool.
The point "just get the right tool": I think multitools are not meant to replace "real" tools but to rescue you if you are confronted with an unexpected task. If you want to accomplish a task you plan ahead what tools you need. But a multitool is more a solution for the unexpected in your everyday life I think. And my Leatherman Wave helped me a lot working in the garden and around the cabin. Little tasks if you don't want to stop and run for the right tool everytime. For the office: Victorinox Compact or the Minichamp in alox 👍
Great video, Zach. Personally , for work, I carry the Victorinox Spirit and the accompanying ratchet tool kit, one of Boker Plus tactical pry bars which has been discontinued unfortunately . For portable lighting, Olight Baton Pro is in my carry kit. The carry kit is Maxpedition Fat Boy belt sheath . The Spirit multi tool has its own sheath. Throw into the mix a marker and a cheap ball point pen (learned my lesson on this one; I lost a SureFire tactical pen, which I am still "salty" about it). I like to have the ability to control the unexpected situations whether big or small. There is not a single day at work that goes by that I pull my pliers out or the pry bar. My philosophy is " I don't have time to waste on walking and searching for tools in a store that is over 1000 square feet lol". I usually average 11miles a day walking at work.
I am retired so I have tools at hand constantly Although I have several multi tools and many Swiss Army knives the only multi tools I regularly use are my multi bit screwdrivers which I keep in several locations in the house and garage and my multi bit drill and driver Otherwise it’s a ratchet set box end wrenches and a pocket knife But thanks for these videos Zac You do the best research and interviews No wonder you have a zillion subs God bless
I carry the ASK American Service Knife daily for a multitool, because its fully modular. But my most carried tools that i rarely switch ate the Awl, bottle opener with range finder, spearpoint blade and 90 degree spine. That will change once the saw is in production
I've actually been carrying a set of new old stock 6inch long nose US made Vice Grips and a Milwaukee FASTBACK 6in1. I find having those two tools much more useful than just one multitool. Although depending on the day I might switch out the Vice Grips for a set of 6inch Knipex Cobra's. But for me the Vice Grips are far more useful with day to day stuff. I also typically carry pocket knife, Victorinox, and a flashlight of some sort. Although what I carry in those regards changes day to day.
I've carried the Leatherman Wave+, along with the drive extension and the kit with about 20 different tips. Also have the Big Idea copper mini pen and the Streamlight Micro stream. Love the Leatherman. I'm the Service Mgr for Andersen Windows and get use of it daily.
I have the ratchet attachment for my surge and in my edc I carry a gator socket and an adapter for it. It works great for 3/4 nuts and under along with my pocket knipex
My perfect combo when I’m at work is the Knipex cobra xs, Victorinox manager, and big i design keychain bit. And of course, a knife. On weekends I can get by with the Victorinox compact, leatherman squirt, big i design keychain bit, and a knife. My most used tools are the Knipex and the knife
When closed, the Powerpint has a magnetic driver slot that sits between the pliers at the top of the tool. It is magnetic, and takes standard bits. It can also utilize the Leatherman driver mentioned in the video.
My edc consists of a 3 dollar small plier multitool and a pair of folding sciscos, also dollar keychain light. Works well as it is always on me and my interaction with my enviroment is not that demanding. I also have a bag that has specialize but cheap stuff in my drawer.
Speaking of multi tools and jack of all trades, would love to see what you carry on the motorcycle when you do long hauls. I’m wanting to attempt a 3000 mile trip soon.
As far as my EDC, I keep a Nitecore Tube and AG Russell steel thumbnail on my keychain. Light and a minimalist prybar made out of spring steel. I always have a Victorinox Manager - there's my pen and phillips screwdriver. And the knife of the day, cause I like knives, and multi-tool companies actively avoid edge-retention. I do keep pliers (Squirt P4) in my purse, but I don't need it much.
Can someone say it for the people in the back. Victorinox Compact with a Knipex & Leatherman Surge with Ratchet & Bit kit in the EDC pouch. Love your videos Zac! Keep up the great content 🫡
Just FYI the large format Victorinox knives (Adventurer, Trekker, Soldier's Knife etc) DO have a locking screwdriver/pry blade as well as a locking main blade. Personally I have carried a Tinker for many years, unobtrusive at work, lighter than almost any multitool and gets it done. If I have to pry something bigger I go for the Halligan in the truck.
Hi, that's a good topic. I'm watching your videos for the last few years. I don't remember seeing you using a Victorinox Swisstool or Spirit. Lately I've got Spirit MX Clip. For me it's everything I need everywhere. But also I love my Wave+. Give a try to Spirit MX, you won't regret it. Cheers 👍
They are pricey! I go to garage and estate sales and buy used small tools and even found a great soft case for them. I also have a plastic ammo box for some larger tools in my truck. I was never a Boy Scout but I believe in being prepared. Good video Zac👊🏻
I carry a SAK Super Tinker and in my bag a vintage Leatherman PST 2..Also for quick trips a swiss army card or Leatherman micra..Micra to me is best keychain size multi tool
I enjoy you videos. My first knife was a Victorinox and it nice to knife guys that still give them and classic Bucks some love. I have been considering the Gerber 30-001194n.
It's been 7 monts and I don't see it mentioned in top comments but PowerPint DOES have a replacable tip screwdriver function, it's just in the pliers when they are closed, so no holding the bits when it's open and no right-angle operation, but it's there and it even has a magnet, which many others lack.
Great video and interesting thoughts. Nice to hear some down to earth consideration of what makes a good tool and the understanding that it is different for each person and their current situation. My life and job are quite varied and I have a few preset carries depending on the seasons, and environment. I have a very light DIY wallet carry that is always with me and I expand from there. I also wanted tocomment remind that the Powerpint has a great driver on the back that pairs well with say the LM ratchet. I've modded mine by removing the scissors lock and sharpening the angle, a Spirit style chisel/package opener on the file, flathead conversion to the bottle opener, reshaping the cross driver for more reach etc...
Dude I’ve been rocking with you since Ben introduced you as the newest bhq employee. I enjoy all your videos. This one is no different 👌
This is my favorite video on the Internet.
My man!👊😁
I'm watching at 2x speed so I can get the info faster and have more time left over to buy some great Boker™ knives & multitools!
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@@senorkarl
How did you do the "TM" after Boker?
PS: it's "Böker"
Always a good day when Zac drops a new video!
Such a good video...and I agree basically 100% with all things said here.
I need to add 1 other crucial factor:
How are you going to carry it?
I personally have no qualms edcing a surge on my belt, but not everyone would carry it.
Very true! Juggling EDC items is taking up a bunch of my mind.
I use a system of pouches for a everyday rotation (edr). I carry a belt pouch (fannypack) for my morning dog walk/hike. On my return I swap this out for my vest for errands/shopping/work. In the afternoon this is traded for my belted yardwork pouch or shop apron depending on my schedule. The evening makes me reach for my clamshell hobby kit while I watch tv. You can have it all but you do not have to carry it all at once.🇨🇦🧰
Not including the rest of my edc and only listing off the multi tool aspect of my edc:
I'm usually always with a Cybertool S, Knipex 125 Cobra, and a 6" mini pry tool.
Mostly I'm working on any tasks found new home construction........."mostly".....
This combo has definitely saved me more than a few trips back to the truck. From permitting, framing, plumbing/hvac/electric, insulation, drywall, painting, finish carpentry, landscaping and beyond this multi tool combo has proven its worth time and again!
I used to EDC a Leatherman Wave, but have come to appreciate Victorinox and have been carrying the Swiss Champ for the last two years. Like many I’ve modified it to my liking (added 2 more slots in the scales for a set of fine point tweezers and Firefly flint, ground the small blade to a whittling blade for better precision) and use it practically daily. I grew up watching my grandfather fix almost everything with his Swiss Army knife so Victorinox holds some sentimental value to me as well. On the SwissChamp key ring I have a Streamlight Pocketmate which has been extremely useful as well. 100-325 lumens in a small package, and a clip that doubles as both a pocket clip for the light and Victorinox as well as a way to clip the light to the brim of a hat for the use of both hands.
The Leatherman wave sits in the tool kit (Maxpedition Mini) of my flight bag along with the bit kits, ratchet adapters, both 4” Knipex plier versions, and some tape. This kit gets used for more heavy duty tasks such as oil changes, or miscellaneous repairs. I really love how much Leatherman has opened up the door for opportunities with the bit kits and ratchet parts. For me they complete the Leatherman Wave, and I can no longer carry the Wave without them. While it’s the combination of the kit which just becomes a bit too much for a pocket carry, I always have them close by.
I'm a airplane pilot and mechanic operating in the Quebec wilderness. I have my big tool kit at base for big maintenance, but i always carry a leatherman Wave, good flashlight, couples of tie-wraps, a spool of safety wires, a spool of lacing and duck tape. Got me out of little trouble numerous times.
What are you using safety wire for?
@@JeronimoStilton14 can be use to attach thing in a pinch. But also lots of bolts on aircraft are locked tight with safety wire so if i need to unscrew some to gain acces for a repair, i can relocked them after.
My recently discovered daily is great for me. I split my wave (one handle with knife, sac scissors, can opener and bit driver. I am butchering a mini pry bar to install on the plier pivot)
I also carry a pocket organiser which has mini cobra pliers, 1/4” bit adapter and a couple of bits. A mini bic lighter, Chapstick and some zip ties. The only thing it can’t do is cut wire, which I can’t think of the last time I had to do that outside of work. Carry what you use, use what you carry. I think I’ve finally gotten it right for myself 👌
My go to multitool has always been the Surge blacked out. Works pretty well in the field/on base
My EDC consists of my keys, my phone which has a Pop Socket 3 card wallet on the back, and Victorinox Manager that I keep in my 5th pocket.To date, this is my perfect setup. I just don't require much.
I only mention this VERY minimal carry because it's too easy to get caught up in the chase for gear, the status, the flex of how much your carry costs, the Instagram pictures, and making sure everything matches and has Velcro patches and beads on Paracord lanyards... It's so easy to forget just how not-actually-demanding an average person's daily demands are.
I really respect this video because it really pushes the core concept of digging into what your actual demands are, and gearing up based on that. I keep a loaded EDC kit in my car, which means I personally don't need to carry everything for every occasion because I live in a small city and I'm never terribly far away from my car. Shedding my "every occasion all at once" great was VERY difficult and bizarre for me. But once I got used to carrying much less weight, pockets being mostly empty so my pants actually looked nice on me, and belt items not getting caught on the environment/pocketed items digging into my leg every time I sat down... I can't go back. And I've not needed a single thing I let go since I minimized over a year ago.
Anyway, constantly challenge yourself and your carry. Do lots of online windows shopping. See if you can streamline, or gain efficiency. It's a fun exercise, and you never know what you'll learn. And your pockets might just thank you. ❤️
Such a great introspective video. Thank you for highlighting thought process, insight, and efficiency, rather than "Here's the next trying you can't live without and you'll be a disappointment to everyone if you don't have it!" That's the absolute worst part of the EDC "community".
Carry what you'll use, and use what you carry. Peace. ❤️
I carry a Leatherman charge tti and it works great for me. I get use out of all the functions between my work and my hobbies. I’ve started carrying it 24/7 the last year. My only regret is I bought it when they first came out and I don’t have the replaceable wire cutters. The molded in ones are bad. I carry a gerber dime in my pocket over 10 years now. It’s great for splinters, cleaning nails, light tool use, and having an easy to sharpen “sacrificial” blade. I’ll use that for cutting stuff that may nick a better blade etc. The charge tti file is also perfect for quick sharpening other blades. One side is super fine for metal.
Search Tim Leatherman's every day carry, He carries your same Charge tti. One exception is that his has a diamond on it!
Hi Mr Zac I'm a retired Army veteran I carry a sak, flint and steel, I also carry msk 2.5 plus a M16-14zsf edc plus a adjustable prybar
I use the middle opening in the Leatherman Surge when camping to attach the gas lines to the grills and cookers to make sure their tight. They work great if you dont have some pluming pliers on hand.
Pioneer X on a dangler every day at work. At home, a folder and a SAK Cadet in the fifth pocket. It’s all I need. I always have tools close by when I need them.
Most of the time now, i carry a victorinox classic alox in my left front pocket, along with a short carpenter pencil and mini bic lighter. Benchmade Mini Osborne in right rear pocket. Wallet in right cargo pocket. And, Benchmade Anonimus in front right pocket. At work i also keep a Leatherman Curl handy.
I do building maintenance, my surge is almost the perfect multitool. The only things I wish is for a better knife steel and the free mechanics. The upcoming Ark could possibly be the perfect multitool
The center of my EDC is a Signal in a Yellow Birch Outfitters pouch with my MicroStream, a dual tip Fine/Extra-Fine Sharpie, long/slim hand sanitizer 10ml spray bottle with business cards, a blank check, index card and a Write in the Rain mini notebook inside the zipper. More gear rotates peripherally (fixed blade, pistol, bigger light, often a second cargo thigh pocket pouch with spare mag, OC gel & TQ) and I’ve trimmed the wallet back to just ID/credit cards, mixed cash and a couple adhesive bandages in a Crabby wallet. An automatic timepiece (Tudor Black Bay mostly this year) and my iPhone bookend everything on my person, with anything else off body in a bag or sling.
A few years back, was watching a video on an archaeological dig at Hadrian's wall. They found what can only be called a multitool. They don't know what or who it was for. So we're only keeping the tradition going. Great content. Keep up the great work. Thanks man
I love the surge. I own two that I will swap parts to make black/silver combos. The awl, bit kit, wire cutter and pliers are used most. I have to MacGyver solutions a great deal. "Did you fix it?"
"No, but it is working. Jury-rigged is not the same as fixed. I will fix it, but right now it's merely working"
The serrated blade can take abuse I don't want to use my real knife for.
Zack you're 100% correct about there being no perfect tool. The MUT is great but it's more useful as a range tool than an general repair tool, and vise versa
My usual go-to set up (and what I carry while working): Leatherman Rebar, Olight Warrior Mini 2, and my new favorite knife, the Kizer Chili Pepper.
On your recommendations, I started filling out an Alpaca gear pouch with small, lightweight, but still robust items as a grab-and-go sort of thing for outside of work. So far: Knipex mini pliers, Exceed Designs Tirant v3 utility knife, new titanium version of the FourSevens Preon 1 mk3, Big Idea Pocket Bit, Big Idea Mini Click Pen (with some random folded paper), TecAccessories ti-tape, and a Wazoo whistle. All getting packed into a single pouch and weighing under 8oz if I did my math correctly. Outside of work, I don't really use tools all that often, so this set up suffices. Only downside to this is I really end up missing my bigger light because of the greater functionality.
Awesome video! I have been developing my EDC ever since I found your channel, currently in my pocket I carry the Leatherman Free K4 and Knafs Lander 1. In my EDC I carry the Leatherman Garage 40 anniversary, a sleeve of leather man bits and the ratcheting driver as well as the Milwaukee 1505! I know the 40 anniversary is an expensive EDC but it literally has everything and was past of its concept by putting together all the favourite leather man tools on one multitool!
Great video Zac and Jamie. I've been into victorinox for a long time, since I was a kid, and I've always carried at least one with me. Currently, a Minichamp lives on my keys as a backup and for small tasks (cutting strings, grooming, writing something with the pen), and as a primary I rotate between a Tinker, Spartan, Cadet and Pioneer X. Depending on the situation, for everything else.
When I was a young boy I carried the victorinox, but I destroyed too many of them. Broke the scales off them, over torqued the driver, separated all the layers prying. They are good if you don't use them hard.
@@nunninkav I agree. I've destroyed a couple too. Once I used a Tinker to install a TV rack and destroyed it. But for light duty EDC tasks they are great.
All Leatherman. Squirt and Signal are my go to MT's. That combo has everything I need when in a pinch. Thinking strongly about the Curl. It's a good middle ground to replace both if I don't need the hammer or saw.
I’ve had a squirt since I was 8 I’m now 21 and it’s still kicking. I used it for Boy Scouts for a long time and now i rock it on my truck keys. Used it for so many things and always great to have in a pinch
The only multitools I got are the Gerber Dime in all black, which I got gifted, and my old Victorinox camo Spartan, which I got from an old friend 20 years ago.
So I will not have something to add to this, but I am still enjoying watching!
Oh wait, I did do some things to my Spartan back in the day:
I ground an edge on the flat head / pry bar, so I can chisel with it. I also sharpened the hell out of the can opener and I also gave the awl a decent edge, and I made the cork screw more pointy. After I restored it last year I also put in that micro screw driver in the cork screw and new tweezers and a new tooth pick. It's in my useful things pouch now, which I occasionally throw into my backpack and always have on my desk. It's also good for around the house stuff, so I don't have to walk about as much to get things.
Thanks for coming into my RUclips life and really making fun, enjoyable content. You are one of my main channels I go to and watch it all.
Honestly and truly you and your channel have positively impacted me and how I feel.
Keep up the great work and I’ll keep watching!
Yes! Anytime Zac, Ben (Knafs channel) or Pete (from Cedric & Ada channel) put up a new video, I immediately have to go watch it.
Zac, it's so awesome to see your channel growing so quickly! You da man!
LOVE YOU ZACH. LOVE YOUR PASSION FOR EDC ❣️ been watching since your early bladehq days and you’re definitely and rightfully responsible for my own passion for edc, specifically knives up until now.. gonna look into multitools!
I don't need a lot of hard tools during the day working in IT so I carry a squirt ps4 on my keys, and have an extra one always from ebay. I have a bic pen that i cut down to size on my keys also, as well as a gerber shard for prying and an small olight I1r2. I love key carry cause it doesn't get in the way of anything and I have my multitool, writing impliment, prytool, and light all in one ring.
I’m a diehard Leatherman guy and I love my Squirt but I bought the Gerber Dime a few months ago and I love it even more. That being said, nothing Gerber has right now will replace my Leatherman Wave which is in my EDC.
Good stuff as always Zac. Thank you
Thank you for checking it out!
Love it Zac and Jamie!! EDC and specifically multi tools ☺️😍
Pro tip 😉 : The nail file/flat head on a classic SD is great for getting pocket clips off flashlights.
My new Prometheus Design Werx pry bar is a great multi tool - pry bar, large flat driver, bottle opener, scraper, 1/4 bit holder, fire steel striker and Amazon box opener just about.
That along with my Nail Clip 580, Real Steel Luna and Thrunite Archer mini I’m ready for the day (until I get to work haha).
My Surge was worth its weight in gold for the 4 years I was a general construction labourer. I’d highly highly recommend anyone working in construction getting one. Especially as a labourer or apprentice starting out you’ll instantly be 100x more useful.
Hey Zac! I'm a Machinist by trade, since watching your videos I've been trying out the victorinox compact and I absolutely love it! It's great for little tasks when I'm away from my tool box and all my specialized tools that allow me to do my job. I can definitely speak to how well the pin and tweezers work at removing splinters! Before the compact I used to used the tips of my calipers to remove splinters and it worked well, but the pin tweezers combo is far superior! The pen on the compact has saved me on numerous occasions as I'm always loosing my pen! Along with the compact I carry an olight microstream (with a hair band - much thanks for that hack I love it), a fisher space pen, when I remember to put it back in my pocket lol, and a tube of chapstick that I have electrical tape wrapped around it for minor cuts and when I need to keep two things together.
Absolutely love your videos, it's so nice to see tips and tricks from a likeminded individual!
Steve from Canada
Big fan of the SOG Powerpint. For the solution for the driver, i have a small bit kit and the Leatherman Ratcheting Driver. It fits in the hex bit thats found on the top when the tool is folded away.
Taylor Martin does that too and honestly is so handy. If i need a bigger multi tool, I have a Leatherman Super Tool from 1997 I bought second hand from Cashies (Cash Converters here in Australia) and thats worked well in most cases! Just needed some TLC but its working fantastic.
my daily work multitool is the super tool 300. Great tool, love the size and lighter than the surge. My home edc is the Victorinox sentinel combined with a leatherman super tool original
Love your videos man, keeper up the good work
Thanks Zach, great content as always. I’m a super Tinker or Field Master SAK and Knipex XS or 125 guy myself. So very similar to yourself. They can pretty much 98% of my daily needs. Love the compact.
I love my leatherman free p4. The one hand opening is just so convenient
I need a “friendly” multi tool at work so I carry the tinker at work. It gets a ton of use and no one questions me when I pull it out. On the weekends, I rotate between the signal and the p2 free.
PizzA
Currently carrying the Leatherman 40th Anniversary multitool as my EDC after 5 years of carrying a Free P2. I love the one-hand operable mechanism the Free system offers and I don't work in an environment with a lot of small metal shards (like some trades), so the magnets in the tool aren't really a downside for me. The only things that I would add to the Free P2 would be the bit drivers and spring action pliers. The 40th Anniversary Tool did exactly that and I've been loving it ever since!
the free p2 isnt around for 5 years so it is impossible that youre carrying it for 5 years
The 40th anniversary tool is called the Arc.
@@edwardfletcher7790 no it's not lol. The 40th anniversary tool is a garage release (released back in July) and the ARC is a completely different production multitool that released yesterday. Don't know why you are trying to correct me when you don't have the first clue on which tool is which.
@@DylanLey Why don't you go ahead and tell us how it's so different ? LoL
I EDC a Leatherman Skeletool, Leatherman Broozer and a Victorinox Rambler. If I know I'm going to be doing a lot of cutting or don't need a big multitool, I'll throw in my Gerber Prybrid. It's been a very good setup for what I need/do.
I carry the Victorinox Deluxe Tinker. I have found it has everything I need, including pliers, and is so much smaller than the Leatherman-like multi tools. Yes, the pliers are smaller, but they still get the job done for most things I need pliers for on the fly. And it has the full Philips head screwdriver instead of the corkscrew. I also put Micarta scales on mine.
Micarta scales are a huge upgrade for a Victorinox 👍🏻👍🏻
This straight talk format is so refreshing.
Hey Zac I'm a camera nerd and i know you use that Sony Alpha 7 camera. Video quality looks so good in 2160! I carry a LM free p4 with a custom bit driver on it. I own multiple LM's and a Gerber center drive +. Ordering a Surge to try out. Would like to add a Victorinox Swiss tool to my collection as well. Thanks for the video!
@16:35 The SOG power pint does have a replaceable driver. The point where the pliers meet when the tool is closed is shaped to accept a driver bit. It has been my most consistent pocket carry for a year and a half and has never broken
I carry a Spyderco UKPK or Byrd Tern (legalities) for general cutting, a Leatherman Squirt P4 for tinkering, a Victorinox Alox Cadet (with the new file variant) mainly for food, a Swisscard Nailcare, and a Sanrenmu A123 as a loaner knife. If more plier power is called for, I would complement this with a Victorinox Swisstool Spirit (the one with the serrated knife blade), a Leatherman Bond, or a Knipex Cobra XS. If I need a dedicated beater, I take my Victorinox Huntsman or one of several old-school trad. slipjoints; a Mora/Hultafors for harder tasks... I also have dedicated food prep knives that I take on picknicks or BBQ/cooking w/ friends... there are some more tools for even more specific occasions, but that should suffice, I guess.
I carry the knipex 5 inch pliers and a Stanley multiple head driver. I had a Grrber dime and had an emergency were the pliers broke. So that is why I now carry the two part kit.
I found my dream youtube channel! A guy that loves multitools as much as I do!!!
I could not have listened to this at a better time. Thank you.
I bought a couple dozen multitools (everything currently available from Leatherman, victorinox MX clip, swisstool, gerber 600c dual force, some generics, and a PowerPoint) and a few dozen SAKs and some other knives trying to find the “ideal” thing for me to carry. If the internet said it was good, I bought it. Previously, I carried the Milwaukee 5 in 1 (the one with the combo blade, not the utility blade). It worked great, it was not too big or heavy, but I keep needing pliers. I really like the signal, BUT I wish the awl was a 1/4 flat screwdriver/pry tool and I use a file more than a saw. The hammer function is nice and I really like the pliers better than the wave. Wave is too wide, surge is too big and heavy? Supertool 300 is too big and no pocket clip and no one handed knife, rebar no one handed knife or clip, P2 not a great driver, same with bolster/sidekick/wingman, MX clip the knife blade is too small, swisstool no one handed knife, bond is pretty nice, so is a vintage PST or sideclip, skeletool the pliers don’t fall open and are stiff (ordered two, can’t get either to work the way I want). At the end of the day I landed on the curl. It’s a little heavy, but it has what I need and not much else. I will probably swap the head out for one out of a rebar/signal if that’s possible, if not one out of a wave because the non-replaceable cutters stick a little when closed. Anyway, not sure there is a point to this and I would probably have been fine with my Milwaukee and have not spent so much money, but hey, one man’s view. Keep up the great content Zac.
Interesting multitool journey, thanks for sharing 👍
Love your videos, the one tool/knife in carry, whether I’m carrying something else or not is the Victorinox SAK, the Tinkerer Deluxe.
I carry my Wave that I've had for 20 years that I modified with a S30V knife blade, a small pocket knife, and a Wicked By Design pry tool.
I EDC a Vic Compact (mine is older, no pin), a Vic Ambassador (larger than the classic, the scissors are better than any other on the market, great for hand/nail maintenance in the field), and a Leatherman Style PS. no knife but the pliers are handy. In my pack is a Leatherman Wave. One knife that I grab if I'm doing repair work around the house is the Kershaw Selectfire. Larger-sized blade with a driver function and space to store 4 bits.
I love this video so much, as a boy scout I personally use my lettermen signal the most but just like what Zac said different tools are for different things
I carry a dedicated utility knife, BigIdeaDesign inline driver, knipex 5" pliers, with a #2 pry bar from BFB, additionally I use Klien Tools Electrician scissors all stored in an arc company marksman (I believe) slip pouch. Everything is dedicated but can be accompanied by extra hex bits, extenders, and dedicated knives. It's definitely my core edc.
I got the Kershaw Recap on my keys for prying, which I use for the occasional fingernail-pain-saver and as caplifter so I don't ruin plastic lighters.
I only recently bought myself a leatherman wave and I’m just excited to get to know it haha
My EDC for years has been a Leatherman Super Tool 300 on my belt. Honestly, I've been considering downsizing to something pocketable (or in a pouch like my Mulepak). Great timing to give me some food for thought.
I love my 300, use it at work on my belt in the Ainsworth sheath!
Thanks for the great content Zac. Love hearing all the different ideas from the videos and the comment section. Take care bud.
I’m excited hear your thoughts on the Leatherman Arc once you get your hands on one
Hi, nice video. I think the SOG Powerpint fits standart hex bits on the backside of where the pliers fold out (even leatherman bits an extenders maybe?). That would alleviate it's downside and make it near perfect for your needs.
Just came to the comments to see if anyone else pointed this out!
I found my three favorites. Firstly the Victorinox Swisschamp. I carry it daily as an EDC on my belt. As a backup in my Chest Bag, I always carry a second EDC with me and it is the Letharman Wave with all the bits, the regular bit holder and the ratchet bit holder. If I know I'm going to do heavy work, go for number 3, the Leatherman Surge, which I love but it's a little heavy and that's why I leave it at home and only use it when I know the job suggests something stronger. But I always go with the Swisschamp and the Wave.
Böker Atlas rocks. I am no fan of Böker, but the Atlas was a real positive suprise.
I have two EDC kits housed in a pocket organizer you know very well and triggered me to buy: Alpaka Zip pouch Pro. Eorks amazing as a compact pocket kit for me.
Configuration 1: Leatherman Squirt with pliers (I need them on me just to have the option), Böker Atlas for bigger German legal 42a blade and great big scissors plus a AAA flashlight and
Configuration 2 (heavier): Leatherman PST II plus slim fixed blade and AAA flashlight. PST II is great for me, serious pliers, plade twohanded and inside, secured against folding when handles closed, slim profile … real downside are the shark scale edges digging into your hand while plying. Ither than that my favourite compact multitool.
Standalone I carry a Victorinox Deluxe Tinker for the (crappy) pliers, updated with scales for ballpen mine. But I more and more tend to SD Clasdic or buying a Compact.
Just started carrying a Swiss champ for my pocket multi. And I pair it with a small fixed blade.
It is always a wonderful day when Zac uploads
I really enjoy your videos. Have never found the right multitool for me. Carry a leatherman wave ( the original one, not a +) for work, along with an 8 inch crescent wrench, handles my needs pretty well. Out of work, I carry a little maxpedition pocket organizer with a pair of knipix a small driver that is marketed as a bicycle tool with a small selection of bits and a very very old schrade prybar that has an open end box wrench and a closed one. That little pouch I primarily carry to deal with little odds and ends when I go by my parents house.
Great video. Love the content. I am in the automobile sales business. I have been carrying a leather man piranha 2. It is great for scraping things and for removing plates. Reach for it daily. Not sure if I would use a full size but I am thinking about it.
I carrh the SOG Power Pint. Awsome tool. The one readon I got it over size was the fact it has a 1/4" driver built into the plier head.
Dude, this channel really made me upgrade my edc kit and would love to show you and get feedback! Went from a regular mechanic to the shop batman, haha. Hands down though, all time favorite tried and true multi-tool would be my leatherman surge. The one thing i can never go a Day without
I’ve had a Leatherman curl for a few years now, and it’s been a nice balance of size and portability with the utility. I can stick it in my pocket with the pocket clip instead of having to wear a belt sheath.
Have you tried a horizontal belt sheath ? I got one with my SOG Paratool in 96' and it's how I've carried every multitool since 👍
That Gerber does look perfect for the car. The scissors on the Boker look sweet. That is one of the most used tools on my (now broken) gerber dime, cutting my nails! I take a Collagen supplement daily, it makes my finger nails grow like weeds, so I often notice they are getting long.
This is the video that broke the news to me that the leatherman squirt has been discontinued. If I lose mine it will be very hard to convince my father that he lost his red one at the same time that i just happened to spray paint my black one red...
My top 3 multitools are: Leatherman Skeletool, Victorinox Compact and Sog Powerpint
I carry a Leatherman Charge+ TTi and a Gerber Dual Force. They complement each other quite well as far as traditional functionality goes.
I totally agree with the prying bit tbh, my go-to is the Milwaukee demolition screwdriver and it does a far, far better job than any multi tool ever has. Its thin enough to get into places, strong enough that it can be really man handled, has a through-tang so it can be hammered on and the handle can be wrenched on. Its so good that if I have even a slight suspicion that I will need a pry bar, I take it with me in addition to a multi tool.
The point "just get the right tool": I think multitools are not meant to replace "real" tools but to rescue you if you are confronted with an unexpected task. If you want to accomplish a task you plan ahead what tools you need. But a multitool is more a solution for the unexpected in your everyday life I think. And my Leatherman Wave helped me a lot working in the garden and around the cabin. Little tasks if you don't want to stop and run for the right tool everytime. For the office: Victorinox Compact or the Minichamp in alox 👍
Great video, Zach. Personally , for work, I carry the Victorinox Spirit and the accompanying ratchet tool kit, one of Boker Plus tactical pry bars which has been discontinued unfortunately . For portable lighting, Olight Baton Pro is in my carry kit. The carry kit is Maxpedition Fat Boy belt sheath . The Spirit multi tool has its own sheath. Throw into the mix a marker and a cheap ball point pen (learned my lesson on this one; I lost a SureFire tactical pen, which I am still "salty" about it). I like to have the ability to control the unexpected situations whether big or small. There is not a single day at work that goes by that I pull my pliers out or the pry bar. My philosophy is " I don't have time to waste on walking and searching for tools in a store that is over 1000 square feet lol". I usually average 11miles a day walking at work.
Check out the Pokka pen… cheap and practical.
I am retired so I have tools at hand constantly Although I have several multi tools and many Swiss Army knives the only multi tools I regularly use are my multi bit screwdrivers which I keep in several locations in the house and garage and my multi bit drill and driver Otherwise it’s a ratchet set box end wrenches and a pocket knife
But thanks for these videos Zac You do the best research and interviews No wonder you have a zillion subs
God bless
Thanks a lot man! Totally agree on those multi bit screwdrivers I love the ratcheting Milwaukee one👊
I carry the ASK American Service Knife daily for a multitool, because its fully modular. But my most carried tools that i rarely switch ate the Awl, bottle opener with range finder, spearpoint blade and 90 degree spine. That will change once the saw is in production
I've actually been carrying a set of new old stock 6inch long nose US made Vice Grips and a Milwaukee FASTBACK 6in1. I find having those two tools much more useful than just one multitool. Although depending on the day I might switch out the Vice Grips for a set of 6inch Knipex Cobra's. But for me the Vice Grips are far more useful with day to day stuff.
I also typically carry pocket knife, Victorinox, and a flashlight of some sort. Although what I carry in those regards changes day to day.
AWESOME, just bought a Leatherman Signal today!
I've carried the Leatherman Wave+, along with the drive extension and the kit with about 20 different tips. Also have the Big Idea copper mini pen and the Streamlight Micro stream. Love the Leatherman. I'm the Service Mgr for Andersen Windows and get use of it daily.
Zach is the best! Love ya man! Would love to see more outdoor videos on survival, and stuff like that. Still a great video
I have the ratchet attachment for my surge and in my edc I carry a gator socket and an adapter for it. It works great for 3/4 nuts and under along with my pocket knipex
My perfect combo when I’m at work is the Knipex cobra xs, Victorinox manager, and big i design keychain bit. And of course, a knife. On weekends I can get by with the Victorinox compact, leatherman squirt, big i design keychain bit, and a knife. My most used tools are the Knipex and the knife
When closed, the Powerpint has a magnetic driver slot that sits between the pliers at the top of the tool. It is magnetic, and takes standard bits. It can also utilize the Leatherman driver mentioned in the video.
My edc consists of a 3 dollar small plier multitool and a pair of folding sciscos, also dollar keychain light.
Works well as it is always on me and my interaction with my enviroment is not that demanding.
I also have a bag that has specialize but cheap stuff in my drawer.
Speaking of multi tools and jack of all trades, would love to see what you carry on the motorcycle when you do long hauls. I’m wanting to attempt a 3000 mile trip soon.
Try the gerber center drive. Does everything you want it to do very well. I like it very much and the gerber guarantee is great
The most under rated multitool imo is the LM crunch. Locking pliers are so handy!
BM Presidio, Victorinox Manager, Leatherman PS4 Squirt covers all of my daily needs :)
As far as my EDC, I keep a Nitecore Tube and AG Russell steel thumbnail on my keychain. Light and a minimalist prybar made out of spring steel. I always have a Victorinox Manager - there's my pen and phillips screwdriver. And the knife of the day, cause I like knives, and multi-tool companies actively avoid edge-retention. I do keep pliers (Squirt P4) in my purse, but I don't need it much.
Can someone say it for the people in the back. Victorinox Compact with a Knipex & Leatherman Surge with Ratchet & Bit kit in the EDC pouch. Love your videos Zac! Keep up the great content 🫡
Just FYI the large format Victorinox knives (Adventurer, Trekker, Soldier's Knife etc) DO have a locking screwdriver/pry blade as well as a locking main blade. Personally I have carried a Tinker for many years, unobtrusive at work, lighter than almost any multitool and gets it done. If I have to pry something bigger I go for the Halligan in the truck.
Hi, that's a good topic. I'm watching your videos for the last few years. I don't remember seeing you using a Victorinox Swisstool or Spirit. Lately I've got Spirit MX Clip. For me it's everything I need everywhere. But also I love my Wave+. Give a try to Spirit MX, you won't regret it. Cheers 👍
They are pricey! I go to garage and estate sales and buy used small tools and even found a great soft case for them. I also have a plastic ammo box for some larger tools in my truck. I was never a Boy Scout but I believe in being prepared. Good video Zac👊🏻
I carry a SAK Super Tinker and in my bag a vintage Leatherman PST 2..Also for quick trips a swiss army card or Leatherman micra..Micra to me is best keychain size multi tool
I enjoy you videos. My first knife was a Victorinox and it nice to knife guys that still give them and classic Bucks some love. I have been considering the Gerber 30-001194n.
Get anything Victorinox, either a knife or a SwissTool. In my experience nothing beats it.
It's been 7 monts and I don't see it mentioned in top comments but
PowerPint DOES have a replacable tip screwdriver function, it's just in the pliers when they are closed, so no holding the bits when it's open and no right-angle operation, but it's there and it even has a magnet, which many others lack.
Gerber Mullet. Best purchase I’ve ever made.
Great video and interesting thoughts. Nice to hear some down to earth consideration of what makes a good tool and the understanding that it is different for each person and their current situation. My life and job are quite varied and I have a few preset carries depending on the seasons, and environment. I have a very light DIY wallet carry that is always with me and I expand from there. I also wanted tocomment remind that the Powerpint has a great driver on the back that pairs well with say the LM ratchet. I've modded mine by removing the scissors lock and sharpening the angle, a Spirit style chisel/package opener on the file, flathead conversion to the bottle opener, reshaping the cross driver for more reach etc...