Here's my opinion: no it isn't the super tool or the surge, however its also smaller and lighter, and has a pocket clip unlike the surge and wave so its more carry friendly. I bought one because I do a ton of welding and wanted something that i could whip out of my pocket to cut mig wire or to grab a hot plate with without having to fumble around to open it because i have welding gloves on. the concern about getting metal dust stuck to the magnets isn't really a problem. they do get stuck sometimes however with the way the magnets are you can just wipe them off with your finger, and for a deep cleaning just blast some air from a compressor inside of it and you wont have a problem. Most everywhere where you are around welding and metal dust will have an air hose. I also do a lot of weedeating and there is a substantial amount of vines where i do it. this tool allows me not only to cut even pieces of weed eater line but to also whip it one handed out of my pocket to untangle the weed eater head from the vines without having to put it down. the wave and surge are fantastic tools but for the reasons listed above this one is the tool for me, to each his own
I just bought one of these, I own a surge which I love but found it a little too beefy to carry with me on the daily. After having the p4 for a month I love having it in my jeans. The edc aspect is great with this tool. Sometimes I still carry just a pocket knife but if there is any chance I’m going to be on the tools etc this thing goes in my pocket. Love the one handed opening etc. Love the serrated blade. The tool compliment is good not perfect. Pocket clip is great. Yah, it’s a little pricey but it has a 25 year warranty so I’m not overly concerned. The lockup is way better than the liner lock on the charge, surge, wave etc. That is something that doesn’t get talked about but this lockup is more akin to a high end pocket knife versus a multi tool. I have actually used the awl to punch holes in belts and in my dogs collar, it functions beautifully. So yah, in short, don’t get the hate for this tool. It’s a great compliment.
I don't get it, if you want a slimmer multitool imo Victorinox Spirit puts this one to shame. And ofc Surge is beefy but it's a totally different class, it's the holy grail. Free P4 is more comparable to wave. I don't know it just seems strange that it's more expensive but has less functionality than a wave. I'd take a wave any day. I genuinely thought Free P4 was cheaper like a Rebar, I'm actually stunned that it's more expensive.
@@RP-dy5mu P4 has the magnetic architecture which makes opening the plyers with one hand really easy. Like its fidgety and fun almost LOL It also has a more sturdy locking system than the wave or the surge for that matter the liner locks on those tools are flimsy in comparison. Wish it had the bit driver but again its more of an edc in pocket tool than having in a sheath with the bit kits on your belt. I like it. Wave is great too. I have a charge (similar to Wave) that lives in my mountain bike bag with a full bit kit and its awesome and has bailed me out a bunch. Surge lives in my truck with a full bit kit and the p4 is in my pocket if I'm working on the farm etc. That Swiss tool looks nice :) Im kind of a nerd for the weatherman story, they were the first. And living in BC having something from a company from the PNW is kinda cool to me...logical, no... LOL
@@danmcarthur8077 That does sound fun :D The Victorinox Spirit glides smoothly once you open it too, but you can't open it with one hand. I like the shape on it though with the curved handles. But yeah the bit holder is such a core feature for me that I'm bummed every time I use the spirit. I'm kind of forced to use the Victorinox Spirit because of dumb regulations in my country. Leatherman Surge for the home. Spirit for outdoors. Such a shame.
I actually like the awl, I’ve drilled holes in wood with it, used it as an awl etc. overall I think this is my favorite Leatherman, despite its downfalls
One handed operation with all tool on the outside makes my P4 the go to tool in a jam. Update I just opened every tool with one hand wearing a cotton glove.
I think a lot of people buy multi tools without being realistic about their use. Most people just use the pliers and the wire cutters, sometimes the bottle opener. More focus should be placed on a person's intended uses and the materials used in the tool. There isn't a replacement for a good knife and a set of tools. Multi tools are meant to "get you out of a pinch" or be a back up. People would be much happier with a purchase that makes sense for them.
Great comparison and thorough as usual! I'm not very picky when it comes to these things. For what you pay you get a tool that will pay itself off in regular use rather quickly. No bones with mine after 6 months daily use.
I own the P4, Surge, Wave, and Wingman. I must say the P4 is very slick and smooth operating. I have to agree with this review, the only thing missing from the p4 is the bit driver, but if you really need one for heavy use, just get the bulky Surge. For EDC, and just plain cool factor the P4 is pleasantly surprising.
It seems like the price is what it is due to the added complication of manufacturing, increased cost of steel, and inflation more than anything. Other tools in the line up have been gaining cost as well. Can't buy a new Wave for $40 anymore like I could in the 2000's. Heck, just a few years ago I could get a Wave for 60. They're almost 100 bucks now unless bought on sale. Things are getting more expensive in general, and expecting a new tool with new benefits to come in for the same price as tools they've been making for ages is a bit unrealistic.
It's a nice tool, but it would never replace my Wave. I agree with your cons, and that is the main reason why I won't be picking it up. I've not actually been a fan of the Free series as a whole, but to each his own. I'm sure they are perfectly fine for the right person. You get top quality with any Leatherman product.
Nice but way too overpriced. I don't think Leatherman marketed this one fairly/ properly...for its customers base, the accountant/ price maker responsible should be fired. At $185 here in Canada...It's going to stay on the retailers shelves. I got the Surge...why bother.
I was a Rebar boy for years, got one of these, used it about three months before I lost it on a hike. Went back to my Rebar, but I really do miss the P4 a lot more than I thought I would. For me the biggest fail of the P4 is that it is not bit driver compatible like the Rebar and Super tool, which also makes the philips screwdriver a bit lacking for real work.
I have both Free models and not a fan. Main thing is magnets....that doesn’t work well around metal dust grinding blades, LOL. Actually I use a Victorinox Spirit multitool daily. I prefer the tools vs weight on it to anything leatherman has. The Spirit can be slick but still a better tool IMO. Good review as usual my friend.
I bought the P2 a couple of weeks ago and the thing that sold me is how easily it opened. The dexterity in my right hand isn’t what it used to be. The short tools are basically useless to me which is why I have a 3D printed bit holder coming my way to replace them. I have files on my other tools like the Surge plus the fact a file on a magnetic based tool just doesn’t make sense to me.
Still carry my Super Leatherman from the 90s and it has never let me down. Yeh it's big and heavy but that's the great thing about it, it's big and heavy enough to get just about anything done. Keep the great videos coming!!!!!!
So the the Free P4 is a smaller model than most of them ? I'm guessing the surge is the biggest and baddest of them all ? Or the Charge plus ?I bought the wave years ago. It still serves me well. I sure like the titanium model. Big $$$ though.
I think it’s priced well for what you get. Their are hundreds of multi-tool-junk I see from other Knife mfgs. This is a specific tool… their mainstay has always been multi-tool mfg. NOT KNIFE MAKING. I know they have produced some small knife / tools but, they stick to what they do BEST multi-tools. Thanks for great vid.
I’m going to wait for the next version because some things I just don’t think make it worth it for example the all is horrible the screwdrivers are lackluster along with the file and it is a lot of money once they fix those things this will be my perfect Multi-tool
I don't think its worth it. I think the wave is a better tool and a good bit cheaper. I think they should drop it a good bit. I think a good price is about 90
Great review; thank you brother. I gave my Leatherman Ti Wave (edited: Charge) to a maintenance worker at Chicago O-Hare airport on my last business trip. I was in a hurry and didn't pack it in my checked-baggage. The TSA agent took one look at me, and I knew the mistake I had made. I had that thing for 10 years, and it had significant sentimental value to me. It got me out of so many situations - both basic and life-threatening. I'm looking for a new Leatherman. Any recommendations would be appreciated. I'll look through more of your videos as well. Thanks again.
I have a charge tti solid as a rock, bought the Free P4 and to say the least unhappy. Their is so much free play it feels like a Chinese knock going to send it back.
I like it, but I think I like my Surge more... Yes the Surge 4oz heavier, and its not as fidget friendly, but the Surge feels way more heavy duty and more capable of doing actual work. I think it comes down to what your needs are, most people would be okay with the P4, but construction guys, maintenance guys and guys in the trades would be better served by the Surge, or even the $50 cheaper (than the P4) Super Tool 300... I thought multitools were gimmicky until I used the Super Tool 300 & Surge. I EDC the Surge and use it multiple times per day
Just an upscale Wingman with magnets. The file and ruler is a joke, and who needs that many screwdrivers. And it lacks the bit driver. The tools are very comparable to the Wingman and Sidekick, and those are the budget models. If you're going to pay $140, get a Surge or a Charge.
Broke my leatherman Charge knife blade. Sent the knife to leatherman and they replaced all the blades with no charge. I also sent my sons Wave and they replaced the blades. Can't beat that service. We have had those knives for years. Thank you leatherman.
Yeah, i bought a leatherman wave 1st gen from an US online shop, shipped to malaysia, almost lost it during shipping. kept it in the drawer for 5 to 6 years. Notices a lot of small dots of rust on the wave. Emailed leatherman and a week later, leatherman authorized dealer in malaysia contacted me. I shipped the 1st gen wave to them and they replaced it with the newer 2nd gen wave. I even got a free pouch because my old wave leather pouch is no longer compatible with bigger 2nd gen wave.
@@mountainbearoutdoors i have my victorinox spirit X plus. Anyway, only my old wave rusted. Leatherman already replaced it with the newer version of wave few years back.
@@nitric75 for sure leatherman tools are good but I've had 18 years out of my victoinox without a claim, I prefer the design of leatherman but I trust the vixtorinox not to let me down when it really matters
Agreed on that i carry a charge tti+ (one with replaceable wire cutters) when i compare these two tools the free is just massively overpriced for what you pay..
@@Horde334 dude if the p4 had the T shank adapter ALONE from the surge it would be king of kings level potential. But cause doesn't have that. The bit exchanger or the little eye glass tool screw driver its preTeh kind gEy
A tool that can "make do" with what it has shouldn't cost more than tools that are completely sufficient to do whatever is needed correctly. If you're going to flip a Rebar inside out, add scissors, and gimp the tools so they can fit while adding magnets to the ends, then put the price around that of the Rebar. Trading off more utility and actual ability for ease of accessibility at the same price range is totally reasonable approach and would give people the choice of what they want. It shouldn't cost more than the Charge + and be marketed as some kind of "improved" model. ... we also don't need 15 flatheads in one multitool... that seems like cheating. lol
Leatherman p4 is crazy overpriced. Too bad. Nice tool but i will stick with their less expensive models. Thank you for reviewing the tool. For that price is should be perfect............
I bought the Freep4 for 1 month. Leaving aside the issue of tool assortment, IT IS THE BEST QUALITY AND MOST ADVANCED DESIGN MULTITOOL EVER BUILT. FOR the first time leatherman surpassed the precision and build quality of the victorinox swisstool. !! (I own 8 leatherman 3 victorinox spirit swisstool and 1 gerber) Everything in the free is perfect, very tight tolerances, no difference between one side and the other and .... TOTAL ABSENCE OF PLAY IN EVERY INSTRUMENT! The engineering and build quality is at a much higher level than any other leatherman. And this time also to victorinox! Furthermore, the cost is partially justified by the enormous construction complexity compared to other multitools. It has many more parts and pieces than any other multitool.
"IT IS THE BEST QUALITY AND MOST ADVANCED DESIGN MULTITOOL EVER BUILT." Magnets aren't advanced and its an overpriced with subpar tools and materials and at an asking price when your jumping into leatherman charge tti territory thats just insulting cause what you get with the free is 420hc blade, no exchangeable bits, crappy 2 dimensional screwdrivers that came from the leatherman wingman, sidekick, rev series tools 3+ flathead screwdrivers, and Subpar scissors at best but hey adding a pocket clip and magnets is so advanced right.
The file, ruler and awl section is a joke. I NEED a large long file and the Wave has two sides to it...fine and coarse. To me it's not a multitool without that. Do like the easy opening of the outer tools.
One of the pluses of the Wave or Charge (& I presume other Leatherman tools) is that the file had a diamond side. That seems to be missing here....and it does seem a bit short As far as rulers go, Leatherman seems to supply one on a model, then its missing even though a few ticks on a handle would be a low cost addition, they reappear, then you get this one. ??? Another miss seems to be that awl. A good awl can be incredibly useful and that does not seem to be a good awl. A Swiss friend showed me his issued Soldier model Swiss Army Knife (the alox model). He had used the awl so much it was worn down to about half its original length. If I noticed correctly while watch the video that can opener seems to be missing some functionality that the Swiss design (Victorinox) has, i.e. no small srewdriver tip. Maybe they cannot add it for legal or pride reasons and have other tools that cover that use.
@@livingsurvivalI don't feel it's too big for me. I used to have the wave, which I gave to my son when I upgraded to the new surge. Now when I pick up the wave it doesn't feel full size.;)
So i can understand why people would be suspicious of the awl....i was when i first saw it. Then i actually used it and the thing works excellent. Cuts through wood just fine and i dont find myself worrying that im going to snap the fine point like i do on some others. So obviously this guy is reviewing a tool that he hasent even tried out...
I've watched a number of reviews of the Free series and none of them has convinced me that they are anything more than fidget toys. Yeah, the outside accessible tools and the one-hand operation are nice, but if the tools inside are shit, what have you gained? The "awl", ruler and file are just jokes without a punchline.
I think I only have good things to say about the P4. The few tools that are a bit thinner will Never be used to pry so it is no big deal. Good review again.
For me, Especially doing what I do with woodworking and around the house things, the one handed feature makes it unbeatable. The fact that I can in an actual emergency situation reach for it and open it without thinking or removing my other hand positioning goes a lot further than any of the tools could themselves. It goes form "Not able to do it" to "I got this."
I like the look of that one looks like a modern version of the original which I own if I was going to upgrade this would be it. Some of the other ones are just to bulky
Surge for a heavy duty tool if your willing to pay the price pick up the charge +(replaceable wirecutters Better quality knife steel) the P4 imo is a ripoff with its toolset and asking price and the magnets are just gimmicky.
I love ❤️ how people praise their Letherman multi tools,,Get yourself real tools 🧰,,,an example “ Oooo I have pocket chainsaw,so I am Cool 😎 “ I say” I have a real chainsaw,do you want contest in log cutting “???
I'm very lucky to have Surge, Charge and P4. They're great on their ways n need. My experiences and daily use will be handy P4. I'm not a carpenter or heavy duty workers. P4 just nice and suits me well
Looks nice and i do really like the availability of the tools on the outside like that. and a one-handed opening. i would give it a 9 out of 10 just because of the price! Great review Ben as always atb john
Leatherman overpriced? Perish the thought! Sarcasm aside I thought that this would be like £120 so around $150 but no the cheeky bastards want £150 for it, that's around $190!!!! For fecks sake for LESS than that I can buy a top of the range Victorinox Spirit MX with pocket clip INCLUDED and one handed opening blade, a file that's not comically short, and scissors that cut, and unlike Leathermans it won't rust even in my centrally heated living room because I happen to be watching a documentary about the rainforest on TV. It's not even 100% US made, the plier head is made from cast Mexican pot steel, and it's assembled in a dystopian 3rd world city full of meth-heads. I'm out.
If you want a time proven and good MT, forget about this overpriced gimmicky toy and buy a Wave / Charge ...or if you prefer HD MTs then buy a Surge.....thank me later. I have had a Kick, OHT, Rebar, Charge TTi, Rev and Surge.....Surge is by far the superior tool, where the other MT felt short or felt like they were about to break, the Surge didn’t even break sweat. Even though I carry my Surge in my EDC bag, I don’t think the surge is too big for belt carry, but that’s just my opinion. My only complaint about the surge is the awl, because of its size and shape; I find it hard to use without accidentally making a big hole in something, this is not a problem on e.g. the rebar. But that’s my only complaint about the surge.
Here's my opinion: no it isn't the super tool or the surge, however its also smaller and lighter, and has a pocket clip unlike the surge and wave so its more carry friendly. I bought one because I do a ton of welding and wanted something that i could whip out of my pocket to cut mig wire or to grab a hot plate with without having to fumble around to open it because i have welding gloves on. the concern about getting metal dust stuck to the magnets isn't really a problem. they do get stuck sometimes however with the way the magnets are you can just wipe them off with your finger, and for a deep cleaning just blast some air from a compressor inside of it and you wont have a problem. Most everywhere where you are around welding and metal dust will have an air hose. I also do a lot of weedeating and there is a substantial amount of vines where i do it. this tool allows me not only to cut even pieces of weed eater line but to also whip it one handed out of my pocket to untangle the weed eater head from the vines without having to put it down. the wave and surge are fantastic tools but for the reasons listed above this one is the tool for me, to each his own
I just bought one of these, I own a surge which I love but found it a little too beefy to carry with me on the daily. After having the p4 for a month I love having it in my jeans. The edc aspect is great with this tool. Sometimes I still carry just a pocket knife but if there is any chance I’m going to be on the tools etc this thing goes in my pocket.
Love the one handed opening etc.
Love the serrated blade.
The tool compliment is good not perfect.
Pocket clip is great. Yah, it’s a little pricey but it has a 25 year warranty so I’m not overly concerned.
The lockup is way better than the liner lock on the charge, surge, wave etc. That is something that doesn’t get talked about but this lockup is more akin to a high end pocket knife versus a multi tool.
I have actually used the awl to punch holes in belts and in my dogs collar, it functions beautifully.
So yah, in short, don’t get the hate for this tool. It’s a great compliment.
I don't get it, if you want a slimmer multitool imo Victorinox Spirit puts this one to shame. And ofc Surge is beefy but it's a totally different class, it's the holy grail. Free P4 is more comparable to wave.
I don't know it just seems strange that it's more expensive but has less functionality than a wave. I'd take a wave any day. I genuinely thought Free P4 was cheaper like a Rebar, I'm actually stunned that it's more expensive.
@@RP-dy5mu P4 has the magnetic architecture which makes opening the plyers with one hand really easy. Like its fidgety and fun almost LOL It also has a more sturdy locking system than the wave or the surge for that matter the liner locks on those tools are flimsy in comparison. Wish it had the bit driver but again its more of an edc in pocket tool than having in a sheath with the bit kits on your belt. I like it. Wave is great too. I have a charge (similar to Wave) that lives in my mountain bike bag with a full bit kit and its awesome and has bailed me out a bunch. Surge lives in my truck with a full bit kit and the p4 is in my pocket if I'm working on the farm etc. That Swiss tool looks nice :) Im kind of a nerd for the weatherman story, they were the first. And living in BC having something from a company from the PNW is kinda cool to me...logical, no... LOL
@@danmcarthur8077 That does sound fun :D The Victorinox Spirit glides smoothly once you open it too, but you can't open it with one hand. I like the shape on it though with the curved handles. But yeah the bit holder is such a core feature for me that I'm bummed every time I use the spirit. I'm kind of forced to use the Victorinox Spirit because of dumb regulations in my country. Leatherman Surge for the home. Spirit for outdoors. Such a shame.
Really nice but no extended bit driver,, kills it.
I actually like the awl, I’ve drilled holes in wood with it, used it as an awl etc. overall I think this is my favorite Leatherman, despite its downfalls
One handed operation with all tool on the outside makes my P4 the go to tool in a jam.
Update I just opened every tool with one hand wearing a cotton glove.
I think a lot of people buy multi tools without being realistic about their use. Most people just use the pliers and the wire cutters, sometimes the bottle opener. More focus should be placed on a person's intended uses and the materials used in the tool. There isn't a replacement for a good knife and a set of tools. Multi tools are meant to "get you out of a pinch" or be a back up. People would be much happier with a purchase that makes sense for them.
The butterfly-style opening is pretty slick. Easily opened with one hand.
Great comparison and thorough as usual! I'm not very picky when it comes to these things. For what you pay you get a tool that will pay itself off in regular use rather quickly. No bones with mine after 6 months daily use.
I own the P4, Surge, Wave, and Wingman. I must say the P4 is very slick and smooth operating. I have to agree with this review, the only thing missing from the p4 is the bit driver, but if you really need one for heavy use, just get the bulky Surge. For EDC, and just plain cool factor the P4 is pleasantly surprising.
It seems like the price is what it is due to the added complication of manufacturing, increased cost of steel, and inflation more than anything. Other tools in the line up have been gaining cost as well. Can't buy a new Wave for $40 anymore like I could in the 2000's. Heck, just a few years ago I could get a Wave for 60. They're almost 100 bucks now unless bought on sale. Things are getting more expensive in general, and expecting a new tool with new benefits to come in for the same price as tools they've been making for ages is a bit unrealistic.
It's a nice tool, but it would never replace my Wave. I agree with your cons, and that is the main reason why I won't be picking it up. I've not actually been a fan of the Free series as a whole, but to each his own. I'm sure they are perfectly fine for the right person. You get top quality with any Leatherman product.
The Free series appears very odd to me. Will Always carry the Wave, daily, without exception.
Nice but way too overpriced. I don't think Leatherman marketed this one fairly/ properly...for its customers base, the accountant/ price maker responsible should be fired. At $185 here in Canada...It's going to stay on the retailers shelves. I got the Surge...why bother.
I was a Rebar boy for years, got one of these, used it about three months before I lost it on a hike. Went back to my Rebar, but I really do miss the P4 a lot more than I thought I would.
For me the biggest fail of the P4 is that it is not bit driver compatible like the Rebar and Super tool, which also makes the philips screwdriver a bit lacking for real work.
I added a bit driver mod
I have both Free models and not a fan. Main thing is magnets....that doesn’t work well around metal dust grinding blades, LOL. Actually I use a Victorinox Spirit multitool daily. I prefer the tools vs weight on it to anything leatherman has. The Spirit can be slick but still a better tool IMO. Good review as usual my friend.
William Collins very good point about the magnets.
I bought the P2 a couple of weeks ago and the thing that sold me is how easily it opened. The dexterity in my right hand isn’t what it used to be. The short tools are basically useless to me which is why I have a 3D printed bit holder coming my way to replace them. I have files on my other tools like the Surge plus the fact a file on a magnetic based tool just doesn’t make sense to me.
P2 is awesome. Thanks for the comment!
I like the side kick every day use leathermen
Still carry my Super Leatherman from the 90s and it has never let me down. Yeh it's big and heavy but that's the great thing about it, it's big and heavy enough to get just about anything done. Keep the great videos coming!!!!!!
So the the Free P4 is a smaller model than most of them ? I'm guessing the surge is the biggest and baddest of them all ? Or the Charge plus ?I bought the wave years ago. It still serves me well. I sure like the titanium model. Big $$$ though.
Alpine Exposure the surge is bigger than the charge.
The P4 is in the same rough size range as the Rebar and Wave.
I think it’s priced well for what you get.
Their are hundreds of multi-tool-junk I see from other Knife mfgs. This is a specific tool… their mainstay has always been multi-tool mfg. NOT KNIFE MAKING. I know they have produced some small knife / tools but, they stick to what they do BEST multi-tools. Thanks for great vid.
I am a believer in the leatherman brand. I've broken so many others, but my Leatherman has stood up to all that I've thrown it at... Great review!
will be sticking with victorinox, no rust or problems over the last 18 years.
Wish the pliers were spring loaded
I’m going to wait for the next version because some things I just don’t think make it worth it for example the all is horrible the screwdrivers are lackluster along with the file and it is a lot of money once they fix those things this will be my perfect Multi-tool
I don't think its worth it. I think the wave is a better tool and a good bit cheaper. I think they should drop it a good bit. I think a good price is about 90
I agree, good feature set but the design of the awl and the ruler here are not useful.
Love the P4 worth every penny.
Great review; thank you brother. I gave my Leatherman Ti Wave (edited: Charge) to a maintenance worker at Chicago O-Hare airport on my last business trip. I was in a hurry and didn't pack it in my checked-baggage. The TSA agent took one look at me, and I knew the mistake I had made. I had that thing for 10 years, and it had significant sentimental value to me. It got me out of so many situations - both basic and life-threatening. I'm looking for a new Leatherman. Any recommendations would be appreciated. I'll look through more of your videos as well. Thanks again.
Go for the Ti Charge again!
@@livingsurvival Noted! I appreciate the feedback brother! Subbed!
I have a charge tti solid as a rock, bought the Free P4 and to say the least unhappy. Their is so much free play it feels like a Chinese knock going to send it back.
I like it, but I think I like my Surge more...
Yes the Surge 4oz heavier, and its not as fidget friendly, but the Surge feels way more heavy duty and more capable of doing actual work. I think it comes down to what your needs are, most people would be okay with the P4, but construction guys, maintenance guys and guys in the trades would be better served by the Surge, or even the $50 cheaper (than the P4) Super Tool 300... I thought multitools were gimmicky until I used the Super Tool 300 & Surge. I EDC the Surge and use it multiple times per day
Funny, I just ordered the SURGE
Best purchase ever
Hope so, got the black one!
I got the silver/black combo, with a pocket clip. Been my edc for over a year and now I cant leave home without it
I've got the new leatherman T4 and loving it.
I sharpened the awk made a point works great 👍 now thanks
The MT featured is not very good value but the talking is useful. Thanks... Liked
I was saving my money for a Bark River knife. Now I have to buy this??
Erich Diehl yep, sorry about that 😝
The awl work perfectly on hard wood!! !
Just can’t beat the Leatherman wave.
What about the charge tti?
Ok, maybe the charge tti, but not by much. Lol.
Agreed.
Oddball Dynamics true. The wave has a better tool set, better blades, and now that mine is broken in I can open/use it one handed with ease.
Cool Dude: I actually had one that was so loose I could open it like a butterfly knife. Then I lost it. I had to save to get another one.
Just an upscale Wingman with magnets. The file and ruler is a joke, and who needs that many screwdrivers. And it lacks the bit driver. The tools are very comparable to the Wingman and Sidekick, and those are the budget models. If you're going to pay $140, get a Surge or a Charge.
Broke my leatherman Charge knife blade. Sent the knife to leatherman and they replaced all the blades with no charge. I also sent my sons Wave and they replaced the blades. Can't beat that service. We have had those knives for years. Thank you leatherman.
Yeah, i bought a leatherman wave 1st gen from an US online shop, shipped to malaysia, almost lost it during shipping. kept it in the drawer for 5 to 6 years. Notices a lot of small dots of rust on the wave. Emailed leatherman and a week later, leatherman authorized dealer in malaysia contacted me. I shipped the 1st gen wave to them and they replaced it with the newer 2nd gen wave. I even got a free pouch because my old wave leather pouch is no longer compatible with bigger 2nd gen wave.
@@nitric75 says it all if your leatherman rusts in a drawer, stick with victorinox mate
@@mountainbearoutdoors i have my victorinox spirit X plus. Anyway, only my old wave rusted. Leatherman already replaced it with the newer version of wave few years back.
@@nitric75 for sure leatherman tools are good but I've had 18 years out of my victoinox without a claim, I prefer the design of leatherman but I trust the vixtorinox not to let me down when it really matters
@@mountainbearoutdoors i hardly use any of the tools. More for my collection. But i love the spirit X
I think charge + tti> this.
Agreed on that i carry a charge tti+ (one with replaceable wire cutters) when i compare these two tools the free is just massively overpriced for what you pay..
@@Horde334 dude if the p4 had the T shank adapter ALONE from the surge it would be king of kings level potential. But cause doesn't have that. The bit exchanger or the little eye glass tool screw driver its preTeh kind gEy
A tool that can "make do" with what it has shouldn't cost more than tools that are completely sufficient to do whatever is needed correctly. If you're going to flip a Rebar inside out, add scissors, and gimp the tools so they can fit while adding magnets to the ends, then put the price around that of the Rebar. Trading off more utility and actual ability for ease of accessibility at the same price range is totally reasonable approach and would give people the choice of what they want. It shouldn't cost more than the Charge + and be marketed as some kind of "improved" model.
... we also don't need 15 flatheads in one multitool... that seems like cheating. lol
I like the rebar philips driver better and the wave knife blade better
DamionJR4923 I do like the longer, stouter Phillips on the rebar/super tool but IMO the P4 has the best blade. Now for that price I want 154 CM
Leather Wave is their best tool in my opinion but also own the Signal and like it for what it is.
Leatherman p4 is crazy overpriced. Too bad. Nice tool but i will stick with their less expensive models. Thank you for reviewing the tool. For that price is should be perfect............
Azvoltman Phoenix or at least have a 154 CM blade.
I bought the Freep4 for 1 month. Leaving aside the issue of tool assortment, IT IS THE BEST QUALITY AND MOST ADVANCED DESIGN MULTITOOL EVER BUILT. FOR the first time leatherman surpassed the precision and build quality of the victorinox swisstool. !! (I own 8 leatherman 3 victorinox spirit swisstool and 1 gerber) Everything in the free is perfect, very tight tolerances, no difference between one side and the other and .... TOTAL ABSENCE OF PLAY IN EVERY INSTRUMENT! The engineering and build quality is at a much higher level than any other leatherman. And this time also to victorinox! Furthermore, the cost is partially justified by the enormous construction complexity compared to other multitools. It has many more parts and pieces than any other multitool.
"IT IS THE BEST QUALITY AND MOST ADVANCED DESIGN MULTITOOL EVER BUILT." Magnets aren't advanced and its an overpriced with subpar tools and materials and at an asking price when your jumping into leatherman charge tti territory thats just insulting cause what you get with the free is 420hc blade, no exchangeable bits, crappy 2 dimensional screwdrivers that came from the leatherman wingman, sidekick, rev series tools 3+ flathead screwdrivers, and Subpar scissors at best but hey adding a pocket clip and magnets is so advanced right.
The file, ruler and awl section is a joke. I NEED a large long file and the Wave has two sides to it...fine and coarse. To me it's not a multitool without that. Do like the easy opening of the outer tools.
One of the pluses of the Wave or Charge (& I presume other Leatherman tools) is that the file had a diamond side. That seems to be missing here....and it does seem a bit short As far as rulers go, Leatherman seems to supply one on a model, then its missing even though a few ticks on a handle would be a low cost addition, they reappear, then you get this one. ??? Another miss seems to be that awl. A good awl can be incredibly useful and that does not seem to be a good awl. A Swiss friend showed me his issued Soldier model Swiss Army Knife (the alox model). He had used the awl so much it was worn down to about half its original length. If I noticed correctly while watch the video that can opener seems to be missing some functionality that the Swiss design (Victorinox) has, i.e. no small srewdriver tip. Maybe they cannot add it for legal or pride reasons and have other tools that cover that use.
I added a t-shank mod now it’s like the surge
Surge comes as close to a perfect multi-tool as any.
Paul What just too big to be practical everyday carry. Surge is a perfect kit tool though.
@@livingsurvivalI don't feel it's too big for me. I used to have the wave, which I gave to my son when I upgraded to the new surge. Now when I pick up the wave it doesn't feel full size.;)
Have the little raised points on the body bothered your hands when using force in plyer mode?
Whispy Woods nope, not any more than the ridges on the rebar or super tool.
Any issue with the magnet collecting debris?
So i can understand why people would be suspicious of the awl....i was when i first saw it. Then i actually used it and the thing works excellent. Cuts through wood just fine and i dont find myself worrying that im going to snap the fine point like i do on some others. So obviously this guy is reviewing a tool that he hasent even tried out...
Great review ,thank you
But does it get the job done?
I've watched a number of reviews of the Free series and none of them has convinced me that they are anything more than fidget toys. Yeah, the outside accessible tools and the one-hand operation are nice, but if the tools inside are shit, what have you gained? The "awl", ruler and file are just jokes without a punchline.
Good for you.
I am in the uk and the P4 is £38 more than a wave which to me is a better tool
Very informative ben thanks
I think I only have good things to say about the P4.
The few tools that are a bit thinner will Never be used to pry so it is no big deal.
Good review again.
Good review. Is it better than a swiss champ from swiss army?
not at the prices leatherman are charging!
For me, Especially doing what I do with woodworking and around the house things, the one handed feature makes it unbeatable. The fact that I can in an actual emergency situation reach for it and open it without thinking or removing my other hand positioning goes a lot further than any of the tools could themselves. It goes form "Not able to do it" to "I got this."
I like the look of that one looks like a modern version of the original which I own if I was going to upgrade this would be it. Some of the other ones are just to bulky
PNW Adventures And gear reviews agreed, really dig the form factor.
Pocket clip.... would you ever edc something so big?
MK outdoor 🌱❄️ sure, front chest bib pocket, pant pocket, tool belt, car visor, pack strap ...
best locking system for Leatherman. but scissors still poor
I have had mine for several months and love it. Def best multi tool I have owned and I have had a bunch of em
No thought went into this.. they just wanted to show off the magnets.
THKS
Yup not a bad tool just the price is wrong
Not trading in my WAVE. But it is nice.
way over priced
I'm with ya.A big leatherman fan ,but I do think this is overpriced.
Ty for the review.. And it's food for thought for say. Have a great day and can't wait to see you in your next live feed
Last part of my kit is a multi tool.
I’ve spent decades and between $7000-$10,000 on my ruck.
I think the “signal” is for me?
The Government signal is awesome.
P4 or surge ?
Surge for a heavy duty tool if your willing to pay the price pick up the charge +(replaceable wirecutters Better quality knife steel) the P4 imo is a ripoff with its toolset and asking price and the magnets are just gimmicky.
I love ❤️ how people praise their Letherman multi tools,,Get yourself real tools 🧰,,,an example “ Oooo I have pocket chainsaw,so I am Cool 😎 “ I say” I have a real chainsaw,do you want contest in log cutting “???
Oh yeah? Well I say I have a multitool, do you want a contest in pocket-putting?
I'm very lucky to have Surge, Charge and P4. They're great on their ways n need.
My experiences and daily use will be handy P4. I'm not a carpenter or heavy duty workers. P4 just nice and suits me well
Looks nice and i do really like the availability of the tools on the outside like that. and a one-handed opening.
i would give it a 9 out of 10 just because of the price! Great review Ben as always
atb john
I bought the wingman for 25 bucks it’s fine
kevin Schmith score.
Nothing here to make me put down my rebar or my car keys squirt PS4 witch comes in handy most days.
Charge+ is the same price.
I love the Free P4 and the T4
I have a charge tti+ and p4, and most the time i carry the p4 unless i know i will need my bit kit
Swisstool Spirit X , try it
have it. Love it more than my 2nd gen wave, or even the charge TTi, I just bought a free p4. nice tool and i can live without the bit adapter.
Is that a baby in the background or my neighbors?
Johnny Appalachia babies in the background.
Living Survival ha ha. I thought so. Been there.
Still love the wave
Leatherman overpriced? Perish the thought! Sarcasm aside I thought that this would be like £120 so around $150 but no the cheeky bastards want £150 for it, that's around $190!!!! For fecks sake for LESS than that I can buy a top of the range Victorinox Spirit MX with pocket clip INCLUDED and one handed opening blade, a file that's not comically short, and scissors that cut, and unlike Leathermans it won't rust even in my centrally heated living room because I happen to be watching a documentary about the rainforest on TV. It's not even 100% US made, the plier head is made from cast Mexican pot steel, and it's assembled in a dystopian 3rd world city full of meth-heads. I'm out.
Hideously overpriced, toolset is inferior to most other models.
Reed Sponsler toolset is great IMO, just overpriced.
That’s why I try to stay away from the name of leathermen
Harry Daniels victorinox is the best.
ill stick with my sog thanks
Good solid review.
If you want a time proven and good MT, forget about this overpriced gimmicky toy and buy a Wave / Charge ...or if you prefer HD MTs then buy a Surge.....thank me later.
I have had a Kick, OHT, Rebar, Charge TTi, Rev and Surge.....Surge is by far the superior tool, where the other MT felt short or felt like they were about to break, the Surge didn’t even break sweat. Even though I carry my Surge in my EDC bag, I don’t think the surge is too big for belt carry, but that’s just my opinion.
My only complaint about the surge is the awl, because of its size and shape; I find it hard to use without accidentally making a big hole in something, this is not a problem on e.g. the rebar. But that’s my only complaint about the surge.
Do u think it's worth it to spend extra money to get charge instead of wave?
The Leatherman Free series is a bust.... Totally overpriced and looks like a toy
You bought it, now you complain, lol.
Junk
Ahh. No