I agree with much of what you said. However, I would actually say the thickness of the saw is ideal for its intended purpose. A thicker saw would slow down a lot in cuts (I've tried many from other companies) and worse, it can develop more friction during cutting. There are plenty of examples of thinner saws being used. The only thing to be warry of is the flex in the blade and how hard you press. Letting the saw work vs. pushing hard. Its definitely overpriced and I would argue a bad outdoors tool. I would use ST300 instead with a kit as part of the sheath. I actually thing the Signal makes more sense as a daily carry where you can be "surprised" with the need for those components. Cheers, Dominic
I had a Signal save my life years ago. It was the only tool I had on me and with it, I was able to make a fire, build a shelter, process fish and game, set up traps, and the whistle allowed me to be found when the rescue team finally got to where I was. The Signal's a great tool
I love my signal. Been camping with it and used it on countless fishing trips. Maybe I don't use it to its fullest but it's worker great without being too bulky in my pockets which I really like. Plus I find it easy to flip open one handed, which I find useful while setting up my fishing poles
I've daily carried my signal since 2018 Broke the hammer off, wore the feral rod out, snapped the bottle opener, the sharpener is almost worn out haha but I love it My saw has a really sharp spine so it strike the fire starter really good
I never owned s lestherman, but it sounds to me that you are way too hard on your tools. You may need dedicated tools that won't break as easy if you need to use them that hard
That is hilarious, every leatherman I've ever had would have maybe the sharpest part of the multitool being the back end edges of the saw, but it's the survival version of the Signal that they actually put in the finishing time and polish off rounding the saw for the first time I've ever seen lmao
DMT makes little credit card size diamond sharpeners that i love throwing in my pack for camping/hiking. I even have one in my tool bad for getting rid of sharp edges on stuff.
It has a screwdriver, better pliers than a wave, a screwdriver, a hammering surface, and a very good blade. You are not (or should be not) using the whistle and fero rod daily. They do work. I don’t hate it, but I carry a P2 now. Know the limits of a tool, both in daily use and in extremis. If you want to start a fire, carry a bic. 😂
I can see trying out the Signal with SAR as it has some of the tools we use which I don't have on my In-Line that I use a few times a day between work and SAR training/missions.
I, too, am a big old chunky ferro rod kinda guy - I obviously wouldnt edc one but I love having a few big chunky ferro rods on hand for car camping and house prep.
The hole thing is designed for "emergency side", not only the ferro rod. This is a typical tool for hiking/bicycle packs. In case of an emergency, you can make fire or blow the whistle, I like the one I have.
It's always been a bit frustrating for me that LM didn't put the hammer on multi-tools that are geared more for the tradesman not just the outdoors-man or the shooter-man. Not to drive nails in but sometimes you just need to do a little 'tap tap'. I think many of us are guilty of using our Surge or Wave as a hammer just to encourage something to move a bit. The Signal from day one seemed like a joke to me. I don't do over-landing like you do Doc, just camping in one spot but I always have multiple ways to start a fire and each way is better than that fire starter. I also have that same sharpener as that Bench-made, just rebranded.
I wanted to love the Signal but can't get over the half-serrated blade. Should have been straight blade - easier to sharpen. Also too much weight for hiking. Love the ferro rod, the sharpener, and the hammer.
Before I lost mine I did really enjoy carrying the Signal. Totally agree about it being overpriced, grabbed mine as an open box deal. The reason i got mine is because I enjoyed carrying the Skeletool as a lightweight supplement to my main blade, bit the pliers are basically useless and you will pinch and hurt your hands with much use. Love the Rebar pliers,so i grabbed the Signal because of it's lighter weight. I considered swapping outboard scissors over to it since tbose are more useful for edc. Would be very happy with an EDC focued tool like thise that only has two outside tools, but the Signal has alot of imperfections
Hello again, Doc Thank you for another Great Video 👍 I think, I would avoid the knife sharpener. I my digits right where there at. And I like keeping my red snuff on the inside. Again thank you 👌
For backpacking maybe, but for home/car camping - the bigger the better. If you haven't added a couple big boy ferro rods to your kit I'd recommend it, they are a joy to use
LM and other multi tool brands seem to put their effort into cramming as many “tools” into their products so they can get that “19 in 1” marketing headline. I would rather they put their effort into 3-7 really well thought out tools.
I think multitool survival tools are funny. If you going to the woods, you should bring proper tools like you said I think multi tools main purpose is to have a convenient tool sitting around for small jobs around the house. I’ve got a few in various places, but if I’m going to do a real job, I bust out my bag of tools. If I’m going to hang out in the woods, I bring a camp axe, a folding saw, 4 to 5 things to make fire, etc.
The sharpener should just be fuckin flat and have rounded edges for serrations. Idk, I got this for the but driver because I lost my wave. I’ll see how I like it. Definitely won’t slip out of pocket immediately lol
I feel like you’ve got some unresolved trauma with ferro rods 🤣 just a standard Swedish mil-spec size is more than fine for my use. I’m also totally fine striking off of the spine of my knife, but I always ensure the spine has a squared off section need the base (a file works wonders there)
Could be. I find the standard sized Swedish steels are too thin as well. There is a larger size that, while short, is plenty strong. I find that in a lab setting, any ferrorod will work. But in the snow, in the dark, when tired, and using questionable tinder, the small rods are little more than wish casting. Add some numb wet hands, and the weight of a larger rod seems a silly concern. Here's a video with the larger Swedish rod: ruclips.net/video/ZWund0fq-jQ/видео.html
Fundamentally, I don't get why pliers should even be the core of an "outdoor" tool. Feels like a case of "design fixation": shoehorning bits of a real solution around a non-solution. Some big tweezers or mini pliers I get but not as the focus and especially not for the limitations it puts on the other parts. If you think those detachable bits are awkward on the bench, try using them in the dark with cold hands after dropping it all in the dirt a few times. A better use of the space/weight would be either a mix of specific-purpose tools that make things safer/faster than a knife (chisel, auger, awl, marlin spike) or compact (captive!) collection of the basics (ex. a lanyard kit ruclips.net/video/Lq2T_HtjcEA/видео.html).
Bashing a tool because you don’t understand its purpose,use and limitations is wild. Furthermore it’s usually the guys with clean hands and spotless tools who do so.
The signals great for all sorts the clue is kinda in the name of the thing signal for signaling not survival but if its all you had youd be glad of it i would anyway
I agree with much of what you said. However, I would actually say the thickness of the saw is ideal for its intended purpose. A thicker saw would slow down a lot in cuts (I've tried many from other companies) and worse, it can develop more friction during cutting. There are plenty of examples of thinner saws being used. The only thing to be warry of is the flex in the blade and how hard you press. Letting the saw work vs. pushing hard.
Its definitely overpriced and I would argue a bad outdoors tool. I would use ST300 instead with a kit as part of the sheath. I actually thing the Signal makes more sense as a daily carry where you can be "surprised" with the need for those components.
Cheers,
Dominic
I had a Signal save my life years ago. It was the only tool I had on me and with it, I was able to make a fire, build a shelter, process fish and game, set up traps, and the whistle allowed me to be found when the rescue team finally got to where I was. The Signal's a great tool
Dog no way..😂
I love my signal. Been camping with it and used it on countless fishing trips. Maybe I don't use it to its fullest but it's worker great without being too bulky in my pockets which I really like. Plus I find it easy to flip open one handed, which I find useful while setting up my fishing poles
Agreed.
"bragging rights at the mall" - A fair description of my hiking prowess during my weekends spent into the wild 🤣
I've daily carried my signal since 2018
Broke the hammer off, wore the feral rod out, snapped the bottle opener, the sharpener is almost worn out haha but I love it
My saw has a really sharp spine so it strike the fire starter really good
I never owned s lestherman, but it sounds to me that you are way too hard on your tools. You may need dedicated tools that won't break as easy if you need to use them that hard
Even if I have zero interest in the tool I will still watch every one of Doc’s videos. He's like the Bob Ross of the tool world.
That is hilarious, every leatherman I've ever had would have maybe the sharpest part of the multitool being the back end edges of the saw, but it's the survival version of the Signal that they actually put in the finishing time and polish off rounding the saw for the first time I've ever seen lmao
Fantastic video thanks for sharing this with us 👍
DMT makes little credit card size diamond sharpeners that i love throwing in my pack for camping/hiking. I even have one in my tool bad for getting rid of sharp edges on stuff.
It has a screwdriver, better pliers than a wave, a screwdriver, a hammering surface, and a very good blade. You are not (or should be not) using the whistle and fero rod daily. They do work. I don’t hate it, but I carry a P2 now. Know the limits of a tool, both in daily use and in extremis. If you want to start a fire, carry a bic. 😂
I don't see a Victorinox Swisstool on your bench , you need to try one if you have not already , superb quality
I lost mine when working at the cemetary, part of the fossil record now.. Damn good multitool
@@steveb8183 That sucks man but at least it was put to good work
I can see trying out the Signal with SAR as it has some of the tools we use which I don't have on my In-Line that I use a few times a day between work and SAR training/missions.
I, too, am a big old chunky ferro rod kinda guy - I obviously wouldnt edc one but I love having a few big chunky ferro rods on hand for car camping and house prep.
Quick question: What is the purpose of the duct tape on the big ferro rod?
Lol... I would never carey a ferro rod that big
hey doc, i noticed your sound quality going downhill. are you not using a mic anymore?
What is that tent stake hammer!???
amzn.to/4fsqlAX
MSR stake hammer rei coop
The hole thing is designed for "emergency side", not only the ferro rod. This is a typical tool for hiking/bicycle packs. In case of an emergency, you can make fire or blow the whistle, I like the one I have.
It's always been a bit frustrating for me that LM didn't put the hammer on multi-tools that are geared more for the tradesman not just the outdoors-man or the shooter-man. Not to drive nails in but sometimes you just need to do a little 'tap tap'. I think many of us are guilty of using our Surge or Wave as a hammer just to encourage something to move a bit.
The Signal from day one seemed like a joke to me. I don't do over-landing like you do Doc, just camping in one spot but I always have multiple ways to start a fire and each way is better than that fire starter. I also have that same sharpener as that Bench-made, just rebranded.
Where did you get your ferrell rod? If it's misspelled sorry.
I wanted to love the Signal but can't get over the half-serrated blade. Should have been straight blade - easier to sharpen. Also too much weight for hiking. Love the ferro rod, the sharpener, and the hammer.
Hello buddy I've got a question for you is it normal to have very little side to side play on the pliers ?
Over time that happens but I think that from the factory they should not wiggle.
@lastbesttool thanks very much for your reply 👍
I wish it had scissors and a rescue cutter / gut hook like the Charge Plus. I already carry a ferro rod and a whistle.
Before I lost mine I did really enjoy carrying the Signal. Totally agree about it being overpriced, grabbed mine as an open box deal. The reason i got mine is because I enjoyed carrying the Skeletool as a lightweight supplement to my main blade, bit the pliers are basically useless and you will pinch and hurt your hands with much use. Love the Rebar pliers,so i grabbed the Signal because of it's lighter weight. I considered swapping outboard scissors over to it since tbose are more useful for edc. Would be very happy with an EDC focued tool like thise that only has two outside tools, but the Signal has alot of imperfections
Dominic at Max lvl EDC recommends the Bond and the Curl as the best values in the current Leatherman lineup.
Hello again, Doc
Thank you for another Great Video 👍 I think, I would avoid the knife sharpener. I my digits right where there at. And I like keeping my red snuff on the inside. Again thank you 👌
That Large Ferrocerium Rod is crazy. Way too big and heavy. 😂🤣😂
It works great with an axe!
For backpacking maybe, but for home/car camping - the bigger the better. If you haven't added a couple big boy ferro rods to your kit I'd recommend it, they are a joy to use
@@TheDankFarmer U guys are to funny lets use a BLOW TORCH instead LOL
Sombody needs a ginger tea with honey and lemon :)
(thats what Im drinking this moment)
Good vids, Keep it up!
Thank you.
Still waiting on the replacement for my favorite Leatherman, the Squirt...
LM and other multi tool brands seem to put their effort into cramming as many “tools” into their products so they can get that “19 in 1” marketing headline. I would rather they put their effort into 3-7 really well thought out tools.
I think multitool survival tools are funny. If you going to the woods, you should bring proper tools like you said I think multi tools main purpose is to have a convenient tool sitting around for small jobs around the house. I’ve got a few in various places, but if I’m going to do a real job, I bust out my bag of tools. If I’m going to hang out in the woods, I bring a camp axe, a folding saw, 4 to 5 things to make fire, etc.
The sharpener should just be fuckin flat and have rounded edges for serrations.
Idk, I got this for the but driver because I lost my wave. I’ll see how I like it. Definitely won’t slip out of pocket immediately lol
Have you changed the microphone settings ? Your voice really dies sound different .
Looks like an Amazon special
You didnt comment on the whistle. Or the 1/4" hex drive. Oops.
Most Multitools suck, they're just fun but they're not really the best way to go.
Victorinox Spirit!!!!
the best
I keep the M.U.T. in my ready bag because you just never know !
I feel like you’ve got some unresolved trauma with ferro rods 🤣 just a standard Swedish mil-spec size is more than fine for my use. I’m also totally fine striking off of the spine of my knife, but I always ensure the spine has a squared off section need the base (a file works wonders there)
Could be. I find the standard sized Swedish steels are too thin as well. There is a larger size that, while short, is plenty strong. I find that in a lab setting, any ferrorod will work. But in the snow, in the dark, when tired, and using questionable tinder, the small rods are little more than wish casting. Add some numb wet hands, and the weight of a larger rod seems a silly concern. Here's a video with the larger Swedish rod: ruclips.net/video/ZWund0fq-jQ/видео.html
Fundamentally, I don't get why pliers should even be the core of an "outdoor" tool. Feels like a case of "design fixation": shoehorning bits of a real solution around a non-solution.
Some big tweezers or mini pliers I get but not as the focus and especially not for the limitations it puts on the other parts. If you think those detachable bits are awkward on the bench, try using them in the dark with cold hands after dropping it all in the dirt a few times.
A better use of the space/weight would be either a mix of specific-purpose tools that make things safer/faster than a knife (chisel, auger, awl, marlin spike) or compact (captive!) collection of the basics (ex. a lanyard kit ruclips.net/video/Lq2T_HtjcEA/видео.html).
Nothing about that looks like a quality tool for emergencies other than the pliers. Thanks Doc
Signal is horrible
Doc perfectly summed up the Signal in a single word: "gimmicky"
Have you ever used it though
Bashing a tool because you don’t understand its purpose,use and limitations is wild. Furthermore it’s usually the guys with clean hands and spotless tools who do so.
Look at the thing. He obviously never used it. My first Signal saved my arse
@@dualsportoutdoors exactly
The signals great for all sorts the clue is kinda in the name of the thing signal for signaling not survival but if its all you had youd be glad of it i would anyway
design by checklist for the REI set
Gimmicky
This guy just sounds like a complainer. Waawaa😢.
🤡