From what I’ve noticed, most American and European manufacturers that go to China(mainly) to outsource their “lower end” line/series, only do so as a “rebuttal” to the Chinese “copycatters” (not counterfeit). But actually don’t do a good job. And I actually blame them and not the Chinese factories that produces them. Final QC must be monitored by the Brand Maybe it’s because they may not want to spend on the machinery and tooling, but I can tell u for sure, there are some Chinese copycatters and “inspired by” factories that have super good tolerances. I think it’s also because these guys aren’t trying to “protect” their market share share but rather invade the space with cheaper and good quality alternatives. I DO NOT CONDONE COUNTERFEIT PRODUCTS, but as u mentioned, when the patent expires, it’s a free for all. Spyderco’s compression lock is either nearing the end of their patent or just ended. And we will see more “inspired by” lock designs from other manufacturers.
The Curl and Bond were extremely well-placed in the lineup in my opinion. They complete the light edc end of two very strong LM family trees.. Curl/Wave/Surge and Bond/Rebar/Supertool 300. I have been carrying a Bond for 12 months now in the public water utility industry and I can honestly say it does exactly what I want a multitool to do. I have made all efforts to carry heavier more capable tools in the past but at the end of the day this one is just the right size to guarantee I actually have it in my pocket when I want it there. The ergonomics of pocket real estate can not be overstated. I am now seriously considering buying a Curl ($120 CAD in 2023) because I believe it will do for the Wave what the Bond did for my ST300.. actually get me to commit to carrying a fully capable MT every day. As for the locking tool debate, here's my take: The metric that I use to judge "is this a MT job or is this a real tool job" is measured at exactly the point where I feel unsafe without a lock on the MT tool option. If I can turn the screw with a non-locking MT driver, then I use the MT. If I feel unsafe without a lock on that driver.. time to get the real thing. Also... SAKs have been praised for 120 years and only started locking *some* variants in the last 20.. why doesn't LM get the same option without everyone running for the hills? Also, bonus: my unpopular opinion is that the Wingman and Sidekick were starter tools for MT rookies meant to draw you in and get you upgraded to a Wave or Charge in a hurry. Remember the time they were released.. the Wave/Charge was still the LM flagship because of the novelty of 1h outside tools and they did not have an entry to that platform on the cheap back then. When the Wingman/Sidekick came out in Canada the Wave was around $85-100 and there were like 5 Charge options + the Surge above that. The only 1h knife MT entry lesser to the Wave was the skeletool at like $65... Wingman was about $40. My reading of it at the time was that they were introduced to pull people away from the old closed architecture PST style and the Gerber MP600 style, but you were never supposed to buy a Sidekick and stop there.
Not a comment on the substance of this video, but I've noticed lately your videos don't have stereo sound. I typically listen with a single headphone (technically more like earbud), and sometimes it seems I've made the wrong choice about which headphone because sounds only come through on the headphone I wasn't using
I have an ARC and a Curl. I like them both however the curl is easier for my edc. The arc stays in the truck with the bit set just in case. I also think the pliers are more sturdy on the curl than the arc.
I was about to comment the same thing. For some reason I always reach for my Curl over my Arc as crazy as it sounds. If we’re talking about EDC for an average Joe the Curl is the go to.
Think this looks good but it's not for me I think the best thing leatherman could do is have customisable tool option so you could swap out the tools you don't want for ones you do on a few models
A lot of people think that, and also the same with regard to Victorinox, makers of SAKs. I don't think either company will ever do that since given that their products are so durable and have long warranties, that would mean many would just buy one of their products for life. As it is we keep buying more of their products in a quest for perfection.
Really good comparison. I'll never use a multitool with a non-locking screwdriver for heavy work because I value my knuckles. Totally agree about Leatherman being in terrible trouble, they're hopelessly incompetent with marketing. Why they haven't learnt this is simple. They're greedy and they NEVER listen to their customers. The other big problem is, outside the US, Leatherman is crazy expensive and the Chinese knockoffs are the same as the US price.
With the bit bit driver being so short, doesnt that help to not hurting yourself when it slips? I can see why the gerber armbar could cause hand injuries, but isnt your hand far enough away on the curl?
Remember when the Wingman was released at 22 dollars? Those were good times, hell I bought it and didn't even need it. But it was such a fantastic price I couldn't NOT buy it.
Seems like it has a place in their lineup and the price makes sense to me in that it comes in between the wave and sidekick. It will be their 2nd least expensive option that includes a bit driver, behind the skeletool.
I dont have a multitool now, and am a folding knife collector. I have a GOAT multitool on order. Got an email today saying the Curl is 15% off (an increased $90 price). Im thinking about grabbing one of these for a backup to my GOAT Ill eventually get. This might also be great for my wife. Last, Im a knife steel nerd and Id like to have a 440HC blade.
So as a companion to a dedicated pocket folder on knife, where pliers and drivers are most important on an MT, would you pair the Curl or the Bond (with clip) with that pocket folder? I'm thinking Bond....but with Wave scissors swapped in somewhere. Curious what your thoughts are.
@@maxlvledc I just hate that there is no easy way to add a clip to the Rebar... Otherwise I would not have even bothered with the Bond (which I actually really love). As always, the search for the ideal EDC continues! Thank you for your content!
What are your thoughts on the ozark trail multiforce? Seems like almost everyone is overlooking it as a Wave replacement. For under 40 it seems like a good value for a budget multitool.
I just discovered the Curl and I think it's interesting. My current big tool is the Charge. I like carrying it but I always thought it had a few tools more than I would use so the Curl offers a choice that is a bit lighter and cheaper.
I bought the Curl as my first Leatherman tool like 9 months ago, and at first I wanted to get a refund as I didn't like the hardness of use. Now after the break in period, I understood what is it all about, and I can tell it's the best tool I got in my entire life. I don't leave home without it...
The Curl is not a bad looking tool! As an owner of the Wingman, some things I'm definitely jealous of on the Curl are the straight blade, the bit driver, and the nicer fit and finish. This being said, I'm not sure if I see this replacing my Wingman anytime soon in my EDC. As someone who carries a multitool for light duty use in a more urban home / office work setting, the Wingman fits my needs sufficiently, and I do like the spring action pliers. Though it has a lot of potential, the Curl seems to prioritize a lot of tools that I never see myself using regularly, namely the large file and the awl. And although the quality of them might not be QUITE as good as the Curl, I much prefer the large, outside accessible scissors on my Wingman. They still work great for most of my needs. Long story short, if I could somehow alter My Wingman and give it a better finish, a straight blade, and a bit driver, I would consider it the perfect lightweight urban EDC tool. (For my needs anyway) As it stands in it's current form though, I think it's sufficient enough. BTW, you are right with your comment about putting a saw on the Curl. If it had that instead of a file I would definitely consider buying it as my outdoor / camping tool. Alas, the Rebar, Wave, or Surge still fill that niche better in my opinion.
The curl is definitely something to think about though maybe in a few years, the wave scissors cut better, and actually the cutting length of both scissors is almost exactly the same.
I now own the Curl, after having it in a cart three separate times. My problem is the circle of RUclips reviewers that I frequent, were very distasteful about it, and frankly I don't believe their credibility for "their use". Your video is the most satisfying, honest review of the Curl. No, I am not trying to find a video to "validate my purchase" of the Curl, I just miss the good old fashioned videos of the item was purchased, it's now three months later, and the reviewer is removing this dirty cruddy tool to highlight good and maybe not so good. I happen to love this multi-tool. I have gone back to Wave+ on two different occasions, but I feel the Wave+ is a menace to use in hand. It's one big hot spot, and the pinching problem...My true impetus for the Curl is the location of the pocket clip placement. I enjoy immensely how the clip is on the left handle, vs the clip is oriented on the right side of the handle with the Wave+. Fast forward 6 months with the Wave+ being clipped to my pocket, and every time I go into the pocket to retrieve other items, the left handle is "broken in" enough that the handle flops open. So now, as I remove my hand from the pocket, I have to simultaneously close the GD handle of the Wave+. This problem does not occur with the P4, because the handle opens at the opposite end of the pocket clip, and now it doesn't happen with the Curl. Yeah! I also feel the Curl is what the P2 should have been.
I just got a Curl. I agree the toolset is awesome! I do have a question though, for others who got one. Did anyone else get theirs with play on the knife side handle? Or anyone got the pocket clip ends of both handles being twisted out toward the pocket clip side?
Prices haven’t dropped and I just purchased the Curl for my wife (unbeknownst to her). Also purchased the P4 (me), P2 (wife), Surge, Charge+ TTI and Mut for me. Having a diverse toolset is good in my opinion and I’m a regular user.
This is also why the Sidekick and Wingman need to be back at $40. I do think the Phillips driver on those is as functional or better than the Phillips in the bit driver of the Curl. Mostly because of its reach/tool length. Sidekick and Wingman need to be entry level tools at entry level price. Then the Curl is almost a no Brainer for those not willing or able to blow $100 on the Wave.
I just bought a Curl a few months ago (end of summer 2022) for $80. This was my first new Leatherman, and only 3rd one I've owned since getting a PST as an Xmas gift in 1996, and buying a scizzor based Micra a few years later. I bought it mostly because my local Cabelas basically had only the Curl & Skeletool in stock. For basically the same price I decided the Curl was the better buy.
But I want a curl with a saw blade rather than a file…I have the Swiss tool, got it when it first came out…but seems too big now without a scissors. Can I buy a saw blade and swap out the file?
I have the Surge, Wave, Style (TSA approved), and I just bought the Curl used off eBay. Slightly less weight, less thickness, and necessary tools will make it my EDC. I love the Wave and Surge, but they don’t travel on my person due to weight and thickness.
I like the Curl and can't say anything bad about it for what it is. In terms of quality it is closer to the Wave than the Wingman (which I also have/like) but I also see how people can be underwhelmed by the Curl. I think that there isn't enough of a difference between it and the wave in terms of tool set and, what I'll call, end user focus. A good example of it done right is the difference between the wave and the Surge. While those two tools are similar they have variety and a different focus from one another. The Curl comes off as a bit of a "base model" Wave whereas the Surge manages to have it's own identity while at the same time answering the call of a more professional focused tool for an individual that carries a multitool at work. I think the Curl would seem less "low effort" if they had thought about it in terms of a more "around the house" tool. Had they had dropped the file and put a good pair of scissors in it's place and then put a different implement inside where the scissors currently are (like maybe a small safety tipped serrated blade) people would have responded to it much more. They are a company who has built their reputation on not just quality but also innovation. The same is true for the p4/2, perhaps more so. The p2 just comes off as a base model. 2 less tools and a combo-blade. And yes there is some weight savings but is that enough for both of them to exist? my opinion is no. That combined with the lower cost just makes the p2 the "cheaper" one and I don't think that people go to Leatherman for the affordability because that's not their claim to fame, as I said before that its quality and innovation. As for the "made in America" part of it, that's just an excuse to charge more. Anything being made in a CN or MX can be as good of quality as anything made in the U.S.A. and companies just exploit outdated notions on that in order to have a marketing appeal and cost inflation.
It seems that the strong argument for buying this multitool over the wave is the pocket portability. In that case the addition of the bit driver invalid that point, because the purpose of it is to carry the bits to use the bit driver so now you must consider a belt carry and so in that case the wave is the right choice
My only issue with the Curl is that not all the tools lock, but I do understand that would change the design completely. No disrespect to the Curl it's just not for me. I've always carried the Rebar.
Thank you for the realistic comparison to the Wingman, instead of the Wave. The Curl ought to replace the Wingman and Sidekick easily unless LM wants to continue to sell them in the big box stores. I'm a Wave user exclusively and likely will not purchase a Curl.
@@maxlvledc I sold my Wingman because I thought it just wasn't a high quality tool. I did the same with my Free T2 - thought the tools were similar to the light tools I found in the Wingman. You covered the shortcomings of the Wingman/Sidekick very well. Thank you
I have a Wingman and have been looking at the Curl but in an EDC scenario having direct access to the scissors without having to break open the tool is too useful. This is the elephant in the room for me. I mean do people have more of a need to file than use scissors? Come on Leatherman... Its probable that Leatherman did this to maintain uniformity with the Wave, but it makes no sense pratically to hide the scissors inside and put the file up front. Other than that I like the Curl a lot but will be sticking with the Wingman until Leatherman realize that scissors are better on the outside in a small format MT designed to carry in the pocket
I have the siupro and it’s decent… amazing for the money. The knife and scissors make for a great edc setup (although my default is almost always a compact). If not for that combo blade I’d have a P2.
Thanks friend. I knew I could count on you for a good comparison. I love my Wave but it's a bit much to carry in pocket regularly, the lighter, slimmer Curl would probably work better for me.
We’ll said. I’d like to see a deep dive into copy catters to understand if/where they are as good as or better than premium brands. And to understand where they are not. I don’t think any of them have the warranty, not made in the USA, QC?, innovation?, features?, etc. Legal competition is good. I like the innovation coming from most manufacturers.
I think the slip joints on the Bond are much better than the slip joints on the Wingman. Assuming the Curl has the same slip joints as the Bond, that would be a point in the Curl’s favor.
Personally I keep hoping for more bladeless options that are edc size. Pocketable but not keychain size. A compliment to my knife so i only have to remember to strip one blade off my person if i go somewhere. My wish list would include the t shank holder, bit holder center mounted, swappable cutters and the biggest best scissors you can cram into that size package.
The precision scissors on a classic vic are the best. The style ps scissors are close enough and getting the little pliers aka robust tweezers is worth the minor tradeoff. I found the surge scissors to be a usable size but just ok, and the wave scissors to be some kind of middle size that does worse at small stuff than the small scissors and worse at bigger stuff than the surge scissors. Something a bit bigger than the style scissors but still a good precision tip would be good.
@@DanDannyDanielleBob wow! your the first person I've found to agree with me..yes I think the 58mm vic is the top dog..also SOG snippet..it blew my mind how good it was.
I’d pay $150-175 for a tool with replaceable wire cutters, the bit exchanger and bit set, eye glass screw driver, and t-shank adapter. The “free” aspect is a great idea, could be refined though and the tools are simply lacking.
I know it might be strange to you and most of your audience but no one outside of the USA cares if it is made there. Leatherman have a huge world wide following and sales greater outside the USA than in it. We are not willing to pay extra because it's made in your country.
leatherman should have a build your own tool section as an aircraft mechanic im used to paying good money for quality tools and no multi tool really checks all the boxes they always try and cram to much useless stuff into them when 3 quality tools would be perfect
I think they are running out of ideas. They covered everything. They have cheap and expensive medium tool, they have cheap and expensive heavy duty, they have a keychain, and a few specialty ones like a one handed and a minimal tool. Which most have pretty much the same basic tool set you need. They only lately started customizing the tools and making special editions. There is nothing in the free series other then the one hand opening, the bond is a re creation of an old model as if re doing an old movie. They made the same tool already only its US made now with a weird hybrid look. Its seems like we're stuck with the same stuff without much need for more choice
#1 spring loaded pliers don't have enough metal in a thin orientation (aka Needle nose) to accommodate a set of replaceable cutters (see the Center Drive and how big it is) #2 spring loaded pliers have a cutout inside that can accumulate rust and eventually cause the plier to fail. #3 Spring loaded pliers break far far more often than normal ones. That fact is made clear by the shear # or returns that Leatherman gets on the wingman/sidekick/OHT. #4 (minior reason) but spring loaded pliers also usually make opening a tool one handed very difficult. Yes, it feels quite nice I will admit. But personally I value strength over a slight improvement on comfort.
@@Castleknight If they could create forged plier heads...with springs that could be disassembled. THEN it would be perfect. but that would dramatically increase the cost.
None locking screwdriver?? Same basic failure as the Gerber Armbar. All of the multi tool manufacturers need to decide what each tool is for. Scissors are for an office or home, not a garage or workshop, that’s what the knife’s for. Can/bottle opener…kitchen drawer, beer cupboard or don’t bother. They need to make their mind up when they’re designing these things where they’re for.
@@maxlvledc the entire multi tool universe is made up of things which are neither fish nor fowl right up to the Surge which is a chimera of everything and utter overkill for most people. At this point it seems only collectors and youtubers are keeping the manufacturers going because they don’t seem to be making things for people outside the bubble.
I had my wave break twice in the pliers lock because two tiny metal sheets are the only support meanwhile curl has a wrapping metal side to support the pliers. Edit: I had my hand pinched so many times that I'm fed up with wave, also that tiny screwdriver is garbage and wasteful. Too much leverage too much space for a nearly useless tool, just integrate the tiny screwdriver as a scale tool and move on.
The Wingman is a winning format even though it's the budget option. I actually see more people carry the Wingman and Sidekick more than Leatherman Waves or Rebars. Leatherman should just improve the Wingman and Sidekick like they evolved the PST/Super Tool/Wave lines. The Curl and Bond are tools nobody was asking for.
The toolset is somewhat better than a wingman and at nearly the same weight. If the function/demension/weight of the wingman is why ppl are carrying it then this is a great upgrade...however if the only reason ppl buy the wingman is price...than that's another story.
Wingman/Sidekick used to be a lot cheaper and I have a feeling lots of people bought them at bigbox stores for less than current retail and have been carrying them faithfully for years because they're so easy to carry. Wingman/Sidekick format is better for pocket carry.
The incredibile thing i learn from this video in that the us people believe that us build tool are better then from outside. In Europe this is really funny.
It's true about multitools at least, except Victorinox which are better than all of them quality wise. When it comes to knives..some of the best are made by companies like bestech, riat, Wee, etc so Chinese knives are some of the best in fact. Sadly vic won't make a tool with one handed capability, otherwise they would be the best. SOG and Gerber which make almost everything oversees now have almost no quality control.
Max don't forget the Rebar. Not same opening, but you are talking about weight and size. If you tell me it's nit comparable I would believe we can compare a swisstool vs Surge/ spirit vs Wave +. We are talking about same range size/ functions/ weight.... The rebar had not scissors but offers a saw and a serrated, cutters too with less money. For me the Curl it's a great Tool. My only deal it's the price $60-70 could be more reasonable. The Bond it's a great price, great non lockable tool.
I feel like they need to discontinue the Wingman and the Sidekick. They really stand out in their line up of tools, and they’re not great. Thanks for covering it, you made some good comparisons
I own a lot of MTs, SOGs, Gerbers, Leathermans, etc. The only MT I have ever picked up, and was impressed with the craftsmanship and so on, is the Victorinox MT. Don't get the hype around Leatherman, and those magnets in their newer tools .... this is idiotic. Go ahead put it on you, or in your pocket and go grind, cut some metal.
From what I’ve noticed, most American and European manufacturers that go to China(mainly) to outsource their “lower end” line/series, only do so as a “rebuttal” to the Chinese “copycatters” (not counterfeit). But actually don’t do a good job. And I actually blame them and not the Chinese factories that produces them. Final QC must be monitored by the Brand
Maybe it’s because they may not want to spend on the machinery and tooling, but I can tell u for sure, there are some Chinese copycatters and “inspired by” factories that have super good tolerances. I think it’s also because these guys aren’t trying to “protect” their market share share but rather invade the space with cheaper and good quality alternatives.
I DO NOT CONDONE COUNTERFEIT PRODUCTS, but as u mentioned, when the patent expires, it’s a free for all. Spyderco’s compression lock is either nearing the end of their patent or just ended. And we will see more “inspired by” lock designs from other manufacturers.
I literally agree with everything said here.
The Curl and Bond were extremely well-placed in the lineup in my opinion. They complete the light edc end of two very strong LM family trees.. Curl/Wave/Surge and Bond/Rebar/Supertool 300. I have been carrying a Bond for 12 months now in the public water utility industry and I can honestly say it does exactly what I want a multitool to do. I have made all efforts to carry heavier more capable tools in the past but at the end of the day this one is just the right size to guarantee I actually have it in my pocket when I want it there. The ergonomics of pocket real estate can not be overstated. I am now seriously considering buying a Curl ($120 CAD in 2023) because I believe it will do for the Wave what the Bond did for my ST300.. actually get me to commit to carrying a fully capable MT every day.
As for the locking tool debate, here's my take:
The metric that I use to judge "is this a MT job or is this a real tool job" is measured at exactly the point where I feel unsafe without a lock on the MT tool option. If I can turn the screw with a non-locking MT driver, then I use the MT. If I feel unsafe without a lock on that driver.. time to get the real thing.
Also... SAKs have been praised for 120 years and only started locking *some* variants in the last 20.. why doesn't LM get the same option without everyone running for the hills?
Also, bonus: my unpopular opinion is that the Wingman and Sidekick were starter tools for MT rookies meant to draw you in and get you upgraded to a Wave or Charge in a hurry. Remember the time they were released.. the Wave/Charge was still the LM flagship because of the novelty of 1h outside tools and they did not have an entry to that platform on the cheap back then. When the Wingman/Sidekick came out in Canada the Wave was around $85-100 and there were like 5 Charge options + the Surge above that. The only 1h knife MT entry lesser to the Wave was the skeletool at like $65... Wingman was about $40. My reading of it at the time was that they were introduced to pull people away from the old closed architecture PST style and the Gerber MP600 style, but you were never supposed to buy a Sidekick and stop there.
Not a comment on the substance of this video, but I've noticed lately your videos don't have stereo sound. I typically listen with a single headphone (technically more like earbud), and sometimes it seems I've made the wrong choice about which headphone because sounds only come through on the headphone I wasn't using
Hmm, I'll check that thanks!
I have an ARC and a Curl. I like them both however the curl is easier for my edc. The arc stays in the truck with the bit set just in case.
I also think the pliers are more sturdy on the curl than the arc.
I was about to comment the same thing. For some reason I always reach for my Curl over my Arc as crazy as it sounds. If we’re talking about EDC for an average Joe the Curl is the go to.
I agree with your assessment. This design is just about perfect for my needs and I’ll pay $80 all day long knowing that it is largely American made.
I did make a mistake here...more of the wingman was american made than I realized. But the quality difference is still dramatic
Agree
amerocan made? none of those stuff ill buy 🥱
Think this looks good but it's not for me
I think the best thing leatherman could do is have customisable tool option so you could swap out the tools you don't want for ones you do on a few models
I agree, but don't know if they ever will
A lot of people think that, and also the same with regard to Victorinox, makers of SAKs. I don't think either company will ever do that since given that their products are so durable and have long warranties, that would mean many would just buy one of their products for life. As it is we keep buying more of their products in a quest for perfection.
@@simonh6371 yep, this
Really good comparison.
I'll never use a multitool with a non-locking screwdriver for heavy work because I value my knuckles.
Totally agree about Leatherman being in terrible trouble, they're hopelessly incompetent with marketing. Why they haven't learnt this is simple. They're greedy and they NEVER listen to their customers.
The other big problem is, outside the US, Leatherman is crazy expensive and the Chinese knockoffs are the same as the US price.
That sucks a lot...
Unless America turns and makes a real "buy American" campaign, all USA companies are in trouble.
@@tikofthetoka5650 yes...but for many different reasons.
With the bit bit driver being so short, doesnt that help to not hurting yourself when it slips? I can see why the gerber armbar could cause hand injuries, but isnt your hand far enough away on the curl?
@@roytore5062 the tool will never hurt you...but the surface your screwing into might impact your hand if you slip off.
Its also always easy to forget the excellent warranty coverage leatherman provides, its one of my main draws to their products
100% agre
Remember when the Wingman was released at 22 dollars? Those were good times, hell I bought it and didn't even need it. But it was such a fantastic price I couldn't NOT buy it.
Seems like it has a place in their lineup and the price makes sense to me in that it comes in between the wave and sidekick. It will be their 2nd least expensive option that includes a bit driver, behind the skeletool.
I'm going to guess it will be about the same price as the skeletool at some point
I dont have a multitool now, and am a folding knife collector. I have a GOAT multitool on order. Got an email today saying the Curl is 15% off (an increased $90 price). Im thinking about grabbing one of these for a backup to my GOAT Ill eventually get. This might also be great for my wife. Last, Im a knife steel nerd and Id like to have a 440HC blade.
I love the curl. But had to switch out the file for the saw. Now it’s perfect.
Plus the Leatherman warranty is amazing.
So as a companion to a dedicated pocket folder on knife, where pliers and drivers are most important on an MT, would you pair the Curl or the Bond (with clip) with that pocket folder?
I'm thinking Bond....but with Wave scissors swapped in somewhere.
Curious what your thoughts are.
Knifeless rebar is probably the best thing stock
@@maxlvledc I just hate that there is no easy way to add a clip to the Rebar... Otherwise I would not have even bothered with the Bond (which I actually really love).
As always, the search for the ideal EDC continues! Thank you for your content!
What are your thoughts on the ozark trail multiforce? Seems like almost everyone is overlooking it as a Wave replacement. For under 40 it seems like a good value for a budget multitool.
I have like 4 vids on it already, definitely a good offering
@@maxlvledc awesome I'll check those out!
I just discovered the Curl and I think it's interesting. My current big tool is the Charge. I like carrying it but I always thought it had a few tools more than I would use so the Curl offers a choice that is a bit lighter and cheaper.
I bought the Curl as my first Leatherman tool like 9 months ago, and at first I wanted to get a refund as I didn't like the hardness of use.
Now after the break in period, I understood what is it all about, and I can tell it's the best tool I got in my entire life. I don't leave home without it...
The Curl is not a bad looking tool! As an owner of the Wingman, some things I'm definitely jealous of on the Curl are the straight blade, the bit driver, and the nicer fit and finish. This being said, I'm not sure if I see this replacing my Wingman anytime soon in my EDC. As someone who carries a multitool for light duty use in a more urban home / office work setting, the Wingman fits my needs sufficiently, and I do like the spring action pliers. Though it has a lot of potential, the Curl seems to prioritize a lot of tools that I never see myself using regularly, namely the large file and the awl. And although the quality of them might not be QUITE as good as the Curl, I much prefer the large, outside accessible scissors on my Wingman. They still work great for most of my needs.
Long story short, if I could somehow alter My Wingman and give it a better finish, a straight blade, and a bit driver, I would consider it the perfect lightweight urban EDC tool. (For my needs anyway) As it stands in it's current form though, I think it's sufficient enough.
BTW, you are right with your comment about putting a saw on the Curl. If it had that instead of a file I would definitely consider buying it as my outdoor / camping tool. Alas, the Rebar, Wave, or Surge still fill that niche better in my opinion.
The curl is definitely something to think about though maybe in a few years, the wave scissors cut better, and actually the cutting length of both scissors is almost exactly the same.
What’s the blue handled tool that he said was 20ish dollars?
I now own the Curl, after having it in a cart three separate times. My problem is the circle of RUclips reviewers that I frequent, were very distasteful about it, and frankly I don't believe their credibility for "their use". Your video is the most satisfying, honest review of the Curl. No, I am not trying to find a video to "validate my purchase" of the Curl, I just miss the good old fashioned videos of the item was purchased, it's now three months later, and the reviewer is removing this dirty cruddy tool to highlight good and maybe not so good. I happen to love this multi-tool. I have gone back to Wave+ on two different occasions, but I feel the Wave+ is a menace to use in hand. It's one big hot spot, and the pinching problem...My true impetus for the Curl is the location of the pocket clip placement. I enjoy immensely how the clip is on the left handle, vs the clip is oriented on the right side of the handle with the Wave+. Fast forward 6 months with the Wave+ being clipped to my pocket, and every time I go into the pocket to retrieve other items, the left handle is "broken in" enough that the handle flops open. So now, as I remove my hand from the pocket, I have to simultaneously close the GD handle of the Wave+. This problem does not occur with the P4, because the handle opens at the opposite end of the pocket clip, and now it doesn't happen with the Curl. Yeah! I also feel the Curl is what the P2 should have been.
Thanks for this! Yea...I like the curl quite a bit. Only issue is price...$10 less and it's golden.
I just got a Curl. I agree the toolset is awesome! I do have a question though, for others who got one. Did anyone else get theirs with play on the knife side handle? Or anyone got the pocket clip ends of both handles being twisted out toward the pocket clip side?
There is a fine line between acceptable and too much
Prices haven’t dropped and I just purchased the Curl for my wife (unbeknownst to her). Also purchased the P4 (me), P2 (wife), Surge, Charge+ TTI and Mut for me. Having a diverse toolset is good in my opinion and I’m a regular user.
This is also why the Sidekick and Wingman need to be back at $40.
I do think the Phillips driver on those is as functional or better than the Phillips in the bit driver of the Curl. Mostly because of its reach/tool length.
Sidekick and Wingman need to be entry level tools at entry level price.
Then the Curl is almost a no Brainer for those not willing or able to blow $100 on the Wave.
I just bought a Curl a few months ago (end of summer 2022) for $80. This was my first new Leatherman, and only 3rd one I've owned since getting a PST as an Xmas gift in 1996, and buying a scizzor based Micra a few years later.
I bought it mostly because my local Cabelas basically had only the Curl & Skeletool in stock. For basically the same price I decided the Curl was the better buy.
But I want a curl with a saw blade rather than a file…I have the Swiss tool, got it when it first came out…but seems too big now without a scissors. Can I buy a saw blade and swap out the file?
Any Saw from a Leatherman Wave or Wave + will fit fine. the saw from the Signal will work as well.
@@maxlvledc thanks for the info
I have the Surge, Wave, Style (TSA approved), and I just bought the Curl used off eBay.
Slightly less weight, less thickness, and necessary tools will make it my EDC. I love the Wave and Surge, but they don’t travel on my person due to weight and thickness.
I like the Curl and can't say anything bad about it for what it is. In terms of quality it is closer to the Wave than the Wingman (which I also have/like) but I also see how people can be underwhelmed by the Curl. I think that there isn't enough of a difference between it and the wave in terms of tool set and, what I'll call, end user focus. A good example of it done right is the difference between the wave and the Surge. While those two tools are similar they have variety and a different focus from one another. The Curl comes off as a bit of a "base model" Wave whereas the Surge manages to have it's own identity while at the same time answering the call of a more professional focused tool for an individual that carries a multitool at work. I think the Curl would seem less "low effort" if they had thought about it in terms of a more "around the house" tool. Had they had dropped the file and put a good pair of scissors in it's place and then put a different implement inside where the scissors currently are (like maybe a small safety tipped serrated blade) people would have responded to it much more. They are a company who has built their reputation on not just quality but also innovation. The same is true for the p4/2, perhaps more so. The p2 just comes off as a base model. 2 less tools and a combo-blade. And yes there is some weight savings but is that enough for both of them to exist? my opinion is no. That combined with the lower cost just makes the p2 the "cheaper" one and I don't think that people go to Leatherman for the affordability because that's not their claim to fame, as I said before that its quality and innovation. As for the "made in America" part of it, that's just an excuse to charge more. Anything being made in a CN or MX can be as good of quality as anything made in the U.S.A. and companies just exploit outdated notions on that in order to have a marketing appeal and cost inflation.
It seems that the strong argument for buying this multitool over the wave is the pocket portability. In that case the addition of the bit driver invalid that point, because the purpose of it is to carry the bits to use the bit driver so now you must consider a belt carry and so in that case the wave is the right choice
Not sure how the bit holder means u have to holster carry. The bits can be held in all kinds of ways.
You seem to have missed the victorinox in the corner.
I did, but after shooting this vid twice I found it didn't add to the video much
My only issue with the Curl is that not all the tools lock, but I do understand that would change the design completely. No disrespect to the Curl it's just not for me. I've always carried the Rebar.
My favorite is the leatherman skeletool CX, the blade locks tightly no play unlike my charge :/
Thank you for the realistic comparison to the Wingman, instead of the Wave. The Curl ought to replace the Wingman and Sidekick easily unless LM wants to continue to sell them in the big box stores. I'm a Wave user exclusively and likely will not purchase a Curl.
And that's completely fine! This fills a very different role than the wave imo
@@maxlvledc I think you are right on the money there.
@@maxlvledc I sold my Wingman because I thought it just wasn't a high quality tool. I did the same with my Free T2 - thought the tools were similar to the light tools I found in the Wingman.
You covered the shortcomings of the Wingman/Sidekick very well. Thank you
@@troymayfield1963 cheers!
Have you heard anything on the gerber dual force
Nope, not yet
I have a Wingman and have been looking at the Curl but in an EDC scenario having direct access to the scissors without having to break open the tool is too useful. This is the elephant in the room for me. I mean do people have more of a need to file than use scissors? Come on Leatherman...
Its probable that Leatherman did this to maintain uniformity with the Wave, but it makes no sense pratically to hide the scissors inside and put the file up front. Other than that I like the Curl a lot but will be sticking with the Wingman until Leatherman realize that scissors are better on the outside in a small format MT designed to carry in the pocket
I have the siupro and it’s decent… amazing for the money. The knife and scissors make for a great edc setup (although my default is almost always a compact). If not for that combo blade I’d have a P2.
I think so too
Thanks friend. I knew I could count on you for a good comparison. I love my Wave but it's a bit much to carry in pocket regularly, the lighter, slimmer Curl would probably work better for me.
I'm loving it...if you can wait...it will be $70
@@maxlvledc or... If I use a military discount it can already be on its way here for $58.91 including tax and shipping. 😏
Okay, maybe it hadn't shipped yet, but I did order it yesterday.
@@edc-n-stuff wow! Nice!!
Why, all the sudden, is your audio not in stereo? Only mono. Thought you’d like to know. 👍
I think when I made the video something didn't translatr
So Is it possible the wingman is not actualy made in US?
I was wrong about that actually, its not enough to hit the 70% threshold..but far more than I said in this video.
We’ll said. I’d like to see a deep dive into copy catters to understand if/where they are as good as or better than premium brands. And to understand where they are not. I don’t think any of them have the warranty, not made in the USA, QC?, innovation?, features?, etc. Legal competition is good. I like the innovation coming from most manufacturers.
Atm, nextool seems at the head of the pack
I think the slip joints on the Bond are much better than the slip joints on the Wingman. Assuming the Curl has the same slip joints as the Bond, that would be a point in the Curl’s favor.
It does indead...and the lockup on the bit driver is even stronger from what I can tell
Personally I keep hoping for more bladeless options that are edc size. Pocketable but not keychain size. A compliment to my knife so i only have to remember to strip one blade off my person if i go somewhere. My wish list would include the t shank holder, bit holder center mounted, swappable cutters and the biggest best scissors you can cram into that size package.
I have to say...biggest and Best might be mutually exclusive
The precision scissors on a classic vic are the best. The style ps scissors are close enough and getting the little pliers aka robust tweezers is worth the minor tradeoff. I found the surge scissors to be a usable size but just ok, and the wave scissors to be some kind of middle size that does worse at small stuff than the small scissors and worse at bigger stuff than the surge scissors. Something a bit bigger than the style scissors but still a good precision tip would be good.
@@DanDannyDanielleBob wow! your the first person I've found to agree with me..yes I think the 58mm vic is the top dog..also SOG snippet..it blew my mind how good it was.
MAX please make a detailed video on how to disassemble and reassemble the Charge TTi... There is no such video anywhere. You'll got a lot of views.
Great video! You have a very strong argument / case! I’m looking forward to checking out the Curl! Thank you!
Comparison videos on leatherman vs leatherman look alike/clone and why it's a great or a bad thing? Maybe...just a idea though.....😁🤭
Probably a good idea...and also to show why leatherman is still king
@@maxlvledc 🤭 kings of kings
@@amirazhar8377 well...their warranty is still top notch
Looks like a slimmer, lighter version of the wave with a pocket clip. I like it, at about $70.
That's probably where it's at in a few months
If the curl had a saw instead of the knife it would clean up in the UK. The quality is as good as the best Leathermans.
I’d pay $150-175 for a tool with replaceable wire cutters, the bit exchanger and bit set, eye glass screw driver, and t-shank adapter. The “free” aspect is a great idea, could be refined though and the tools are simply lacking.
Hmm, nothing out there yet, but feels like a reasonable mod project
I know it might be strange to you and most of your audience but no one outside of the USA cares if it is made there. Leatherman have a huge world wide following and sales greater outside the USA than in it. We are not willing to pay extra because it's made in your country.
Good point
leatherman should have a build your own tool section as an aircraft mechanic im used to paying good money for quality tools and no multi tool really checks all the boxes they always try and cram to much useless stuff into them when 3 quality tools would be perfect
I think they are running out of ideas. They covered everything. They have cheap and expensive medium tool, they have cheap and expensive heavy duty, they have a keychain, and a few specialty ones like a one handed and a minimal tool. Which most have pretty much the same basic tool set you need. They only lately started customizing the tools and making special editions. There is nothing in the free series other then the one hand opening, the bond is a re creation of an old model as if re doing an old movie. They made the same tool already only its US made now with a weird hybrid look. Its seems like we're stuck with the same stuff without much need for more choice
Hard to argue with this
The curl rocks, its my sidekick to the super tool 300
Its the price that throws me off the curl. I think I would rather spend that extra for the wave plus
I don't understand why Leatherman, doesn't spring load all their multi-tools.
#1 spring loaded pliers don't have enough metal in a thin orientation (aka Needle nose) to accommodate a set of replaceable cutters (see the Center Drive and how big it is)
#2 spring loaded pliers have a cutout inside that can accumulate rust and eventually cause the plier to fail.
#3 Spring loaded pliers break far far more often than normal ones. That fact is made clear by the shear # or returns that Leatherman gets on the wingman/sidekick/OHT.
#4 (minior reason) but spring loaded pliers also usually make opening a tool one handed very difficult.
Yes, it feels quite nice I will admit. But personally I value strength over a slight improvement on comfort.
@@maxlvledc - Thank you for the indepth explanation. I feel a bit better now, lol.
@@Castleknight If they could create forged plier heads...with springs that could be disassembled. THEN it would be perfect. but that would dramatically increase the cost.
IT didn't drop in price. It went up to $90 instead of going down to $70
Yep, didn't see that coming
Whats that chinese multitool?
amzn.to/3kf1cim ,this one is similar. I think the other is sold out
The curl Leatherman is very nice
None locking screwdriver?? Same basic failure as the Gerber Armbar.
All of the multi tool manufacturers need to decide what each tool is for. Scissors are for an office or home, not a garage or workshop, that’s what the knife’s for. Can/bottle opener…kitchen drawer, beer cupboard or don’t bother. They need to make their mind up when they’re designing these things where they’re for.
As far as the toolset...this one seems fairly straightforward . But in general I agree, I prefer specialized tools.
@@maxlvledc the entire multi tool universe is made up of things which are neither fish nor fowl right up to the Surge which is a chimera of everything and utter overkill for most people. At this point it seems only collectors and youtubers are keeping the manufacturers going because they don’t seem to be making things for people outside the bubble.
I had my wave break twice in the pliers lock because two tiny metal sheets are the only support meanwhile curl has a wrapping metal side to support the pliers.
Edit: I had my hand pinched so many times that I'm fed up with wave, also that tiny screwdriver is garbage and wasteful. Too much leverage too much space for a nearly useless tool, just integrate the tiny screwdriver as a scale tool and move on.
If it had a saw not a file yes I'd buy it
The Wingman is a winning format even though it's the budget option. I actually see more people carry the Wingman and Sidekick more than Leatherman Waves or Rebars. Leatherman should just improve the Wingman and Sidekick like they evolved the PST/Super Tool/Wave lines. The Curl and Bond are tools nobody was asking for.
The toolset is somewhat better than a wingman and at nearly the same weight. If the function/demension/weight of the wingman is why ppl are carrying it then this is a great upgrade...however if the only reason ppl buy the wingman is price...than that's another story.
Wingman/Sidekick used to be a lot cheaper and I have a feeling lots of people bought them at bigbox stores for less than current retail and have been carrying them faithfully for years because they're so easy to carry. Wingman/Sidekick format is better for pocket carry.
@@gregpost7396 this is just as easy if not more comfortable..only issue imo will be price
the curl is so good that if it had a saw instead of the file it woould have been a perfect tool in my eyes
The incredibile thing i learn from this video in that the us people believe that us build tool are better then from outside. In Europe this is really funny.
It's true about multitools at least, except Victorinox which are better than all of them quality wise. When it comes to knives..some of the best are made by companies like bestech, riat, Wee, etc so Chinese knives are some of the best in fact. Sadly vic won't make a tool with one handed capability, otherwise they would be the best. SOG and Gerber which make almost everything oversees now have almost no quality control.
that's a lot of tools
Lol, that's only the ones I was comparing it too 😅
спасибо .
Max don't forget the Rebar. Not same opening, but you are talking about weight and size.
If you tell me it's nit comparable I would believe we can compare a swisstool vs Surge/ spirit vs Wave +.
We are talking about same range size/ functions/ weight....
The rebar had not scissors but offers a saw and a serrated, cutters too with less money.
For me the Curl it's a great Tool. My only deal it's the price $60-70 could be more reasonable. The Bond it's a great price, great non lockable tool.
Hmm, I think the rebar is certainly part of the equation. The issue is that the rebar has no clip, making carrying it a little more difficult
I feel like they need to discontinue the Wingman and the Sidekick. They really stand out in their line up of tools, and they’re not great. Thanks for covering it, you made some good comparisons
Well said
I own a lot of MTs, SOGs, Gerbers, Leathermans, etc. The only MT I have ever picked up, and was impressed with the craftsmanship and so on, is the Victorinox MT. Don't get the hype around Leatherman, and those magnets in their newer tools .... this is idiotic. Go ahead put it on you, or in your pocket and go grind, cut some metal.
Well put bud
🍻
Great comparison video.
I want USA made. I do not want it cheap, I want it at a value.
For sake of disclosure, I did mess up on my points about the wingmans origins. More in the description.
The Leatherman CURL is too expensive
Based on what?
remember the clip and the sheath price too is included so, not really.
Scissor comparison video. I think you are wrong
Will do
Your audio sucks man, sorry to say. But good video overall.
I know what to do in the future to fix it...for some reason it exported in mono
The Wingman sucks! Bond all day long.
MAX please make a detailed video on how to disassemble and reassemble the Charge TTi... There is no such video anywhere. You'll got a lot of views.
This is a great idea...and I will
@@maxlvledc Honored to talk to you, Max. Cheers from the land of Senna (Brazil).