Leatherman some feedback: I own nearly every model multi-tool you’ve ever produced and the P4 is the only tool where my plierheads will bind. At times they bind to the point where the force needed to open and close the pliers is greater than that required to fold the tool. Other than that, I do like the tool, especially in combination with the old Tool Adapter so it can use bits. A specialized bit solution would be great, tho.
He is part of the inspiration behind me starting my own channel. I traded my Free P4 for an OHT, and I don’t regret the trade. I do miss some of the Free P4’s features, and will probably buy one again once it is available in more colors like the Free K2 and Free T4 have to offer.
Genesis Check out Shapeways.com. There is a guy who has made all sorts of blade exchanges and modifications for the Free P4, and other Free line of tools and knives.
Leatherman. I have such a wide variety of your tools. Some of my relatives think I’m abnormal. But I’m the first call when something breaks. OHT is my favorite
Leatherman: I own a Rebar, I used the pliers to dig out a pair of keys that fell outta my hand into a crevice on the ground.when I finally got to the keys and cleaned my Rebar later that day I noticed that on one side of the pliers it looked “uneven”,now I’ve owned letterman tools before,”the original OST”.and I’ve used that tool for pretty much everything to get me outta of a pinch.the tool still looks the same.has your tools gone down in quality..?
This is why I subscribed and recommended this channel to friends. You give honest opinions. OPINIONS. "should you buy the p4 if you already have a wave.... NO" honesty. Keeps me subscribed and watching.
I am a service tech and this tool is awesome. I am often holding something in place with one hand and can’t let go, so this tools one handed operation is perfect for my needs.
I picked up the Free P4 after watching your video. I have had it about 8 months and can say I find myself using every day. Best multi-tool I have every owed. I even seem to go for it first for a lot of basic knife tasks over my EDC Kershaw Link knife which I also love.
@@greekveteran2715 I agree. It just wasn't expected to me. I had been using the same SOG MT since 2010 and had got used to it. I didn't expect the Victorinox to be so tight. Now that I have got used to it, I like it. I've since worked it in by moving the parts while chilling at my desk. It's a great tool. The only thing I wish it had that my SOG MT does is a measuring stick on the handles. Regardless, It's a high quality MT and my new EDC. I love having a rachet and other tools on my hip. It offers way more than my SOG MT did.
@@isaiahii6982 "Tight" isn't a negative. The Victorinox multitools are not balisongs, or one-handed tactical devices. The rigid movements of opening and closing a Vic multitool are much-loved. My 20+ year old SwissTool is STILL rigid. And, no flop or looseness, unlike my 20+ year old LM Wave. These tools have no need to be broken in. Sure, useage loosens them a bit. But that tightness is not a tool problem.
Hi Jose from Puerto Rico and I just subscribed to your channel. I enjoyed this video and as of November 23, 2020 at 12:40 am (can't sleep with this horrible toothache ) a Leatherman p4 will be delivered to me today. I've seen a lot of videos here and they most of them talk negative about the p4. Anyhow I saw them after I pulled the trigger and will make the best of it. I'm not a tradesman and have been retired since 2007. Arthritis on my hands is catching up and saw the one handed operation of the p4 and that was the selling point for me. I had owned a Wave before and I gave it to my nephew as a gift. I've been owning a Leatherman Crunch with the locking plier mechanism for many years now and for me it's a wonderful tool. Decided to add the p4. Who knows, maybe down the line I'll purchase the Wave again, since I love these multitools for their design and can get you out of a pinch when you mostly need a tool on hand.
I bought one of these just because I'm an MT addict and cannot say no to any MT, but it should MSRP for $99 and street price for even less. $140 is just too much for this one.
I have both the Wave and Free P4. The P4 is on my belt every day for work. The 1 hand use is a huge bonus when wearing gloves. I also much prefer the knife shape. The large flat head screwdriver tool seems like a waste of space, however, I've found it better used for prying rather than flat head screwing. My Wave is my weekender. Great all rounder and as I'm not wearing gloves, I don't mind having to use 2 hands to access some tools. I think the P4 has a way to go, and I'm sure Leatherman may make a few adjustments to it in the future (one handed thumb holes are too inset for ease of use while wearing gloves, and no choice to swap screw driver bits). Personally though, the P4 knife shape is much better suited for my work. Don't need a bottle opener. Don't need a can opener. Most people know how to open these things without the specific tools. Leatherman could save space/weight or even add a more useful tool in their place. It's like keeping cork screws on Victorinox.
I’ve been using a wave for 7 years everyday working on wind turbines…I can one hand open and close it easily. Unfortunately the free won’t work for me as I am in an extremely dirty environment and these magnets will catch everything. Looks like I’ll be sticking with ol faithful. Thanks for the vid.
My P4 doesn't have as big of an issue with accidental deployment when you open the pliers. Maybe their is variation in magnet strength. I think the P4 shines more if you pocket your multitools rather than sheath carry where you are able to keep a bit kit with it to expand your capabilities. I own the P4 and a charge and I pocket carry so I almost never have a bit kit handy. For now I keep the charge in my truck with the accessories, but the P4 I carry at work. The scissors and pliers both seem substantially better on the P4, I like the driver's but I wish the other 4 tools were better thought out.
I really like the concept of the Free P4 but I have several issues for MY daily work use... I'm sure it will work just fine for most people... First... The file is useless... I use it a lot on newly cut sheet metal to smooth off the dangerous sharp edges... Second... I need the bit kit... I encounter all types of fasteners from philips, flat, hex, torx, star, exc... Third... I use the saw more than I thought I would... Mostly to saw through super thick cardboard containers used to ship metal pars so I can get them in the cardboard compacter... And finally... $140 is to much... You can get the Surge for around $100... Bit kit is around $25... And the bit extension is $15... I will deal with the extra weight so I can get 64 tools...
I have been a Surge owner for many years and it was always my go to MT. Problem was, it needed to be carried in a sheath on my belt. I purchased the pocket clip that goes on it but found out that it just doesn’t work, is weak & wobbly and easily broken. So I finally tired of having the heavy sheath/MT on my belt and there was no suitable alternative for carrying it. Enter the P4. I got the pocket clip that comes with the P2 and put it on the P4. Now I have a great MT and I can carry it in my pocket. The pocket clip that fits on the P4 is a real one and super solid. That’s how the P4 became my EDC tool. BTW, I have never had the other tools partially open when deploying the pliers. I think it may just be the tool you have.
As a contractor, I really like those multiple long flat screwdrivers, I really dont need ph or tx bits on the go, I can open anything with a single flat one, and If I need to screw a lot of bits, I just check in my tool bag for the proper screwdriver.
Yes it is,I'm ordering a p4 to compare with my new Arc I got back in December,I love the magnacut blade,both great tools but if you change a few tools on p4 an the blade then you'll have an og Arc essentially.
Juice, Surge, Squirt, Sidekick, Wave. No real fav. Squirt is pretty useless, Surge is a giant beast, Wave is probably better all around, Juice has the power to weight ratio.
Anyone out there watching this recently, the bit where he shows how the tools sorta come out when you deploy the pliers, I got some info about that. I just got my P-4 today 6-26-20 and been playing and practicing with it and it seems like it doesn’t do it as bad as you see in the video. Sometimes it doesn’t do it at all but here and there just a few of the tools do start to come out a little just not as bad as you see his was.
I got the new Arc last December for my birthday just to see what all hate was about,I waited on them to work out the bad cutters that was going around,so far mine has been great,I'm ordering a p4 just to have,my buddy just ordered one,I don't have that problem with the tools flopping out when flipping out the pliers on the Arc,I'm really loving the magnacut blade,big improvement,yes it's expensive but it does everything I need daily an has a better self than the P4.
I am a carpenter at a federal complex we have multiple buildings. I currently carry a Surge in a belt pouch with other tools. For me I love the idea of a one-handed opening set of pliers and tools however I actually use a lot of the components of my multi-tool, having the ability to use jigsaw blades in the surge allows me to complete a variety of tasks that otherwise I'd have to bring a cart full of tools. I would love to see a new Free with the interchangeability of tools more like the Surge.
I own a Surge, Wave, two 300's that I've used for 25 years, and now a P4. When picking one think about where and how you'll use it most. Hard-use everyday: Surge, its a heavy beast, very adaptable, the "wear" tools are easily replaced. The Surge is not a good pick for trekking/bush use, but its perfect for farm/industrial. EDC urban/military/tinkerer: Wave, versatile like the Surge but lighter and easier to live with. EDC woodsman/camping/trekking/military: this is where the P4 shines, everything you need and more, quick/easy and one-handed, no loose parts/bits. Also.. Both, my Surge and Waves have cut the side of my thumb when opening (not sure how or why), but for that reason alone I never take them out on the trail anymore.
I would have liked to see you compare the toolsets, between the wave and the surge to the free. The Free looks like the tools are from the cheaper wingman. $140.00 for a magnetic wingman?
I already have Rebar for edc and Signal for outdoor so i'm not into buying another Leatherman but i was curious about that new one so i'm happy to see it reviewed!
I'll be sticking with my leatherman wave. It's been to hell and back and asked to go again. Everytime I try another tool, I always go back to the wave soon after.
Mickiey Slim , try using P series with gloves - it just opens your eyes for main problem of wave/surge - not being able to access your tools while wearing gloves. No need to take off gloves to reach those f&@?ing nail nicks.
THE WAVE HANDS DOWN! !! People are amazed it's a MT when i i deploy and closeit SO FAST, They think i have a butterfly knife. i have owned other various MTs , But The WAVE IS TRIED and TRUE.
The tool is great especially for people with disabillities. I still love my Surge and after changing the broken scissors is good as new now 5 years later.
I carry a p4 and love it. One other thing to consider with the magnets, is if you wear a mechanical watch. Just be cautious not to let them sit together on your dresser or if you’re laying your hand next to where it’s clipped or in the pouch. Not a huge deal if you have a demagnetizer for your watch. As far as the tools deploying when opening? Mine will do it about half the time I open it, but it hasn’t bothered me enough to not carry and use the tool.
Regarding your tool having loose tools when activating scissors, I recommend you send back to leatherman for a tuneup, it’s free and it takes about 3 weeks total. I was having same issue but with belt clip where screws kept losing their grip making the clip fall off. The fixed and sent back nice and sharp. Good videos!
I like the idea behind it but the lack of versatility at $140 is holding me back. At $140 I would expect to see the ability to use the Leatherman bit kit. If I buy the P4 it will be for the sake of the channel. Otherwise I'll stick to my Surge and Swisschamp
I purchased a free P4 for my birthday and spent two hundred and twenty only because I live in Canada and our monetary system sucks,but I gotta say I definitely agree with your conclusion that the P4 is a tool that is specifically designed for the person who will be using the tool often, I enjoy it but I am gonna stick with my Wave for an EDC tool.
better than the UK, it's on discount right now and it's £152.95 (246 CAD). I'm actually going to Toronto soon and was thinking of buying it there to save money.
Definitely the wave plus is the way to go not having a free swinging main handle you can use the handles for additional reach for your screw drivers and files and blades
Had to send my wave + in for repairs and bought a p4 to use while it's out of service. So far impressed with the build of the p4 compared to some reviews I saw. Not super impressed with the 1 hand deployment as I could also whip my wave open and feel like the wave deploys better. Find the p4 kind of cumbersome in the hand compared to my wave. Think once I get my wave back I'm going to stick to the wave at work and pocket carry my p4 during the weekend for its bling.
I've been carrying a sidekick since 2016 & and it's never let me down, I was looking for an upgraded model, and I went with the p4! It should be arriving sometime next week
I'm really glad you pointed out how those tools come loose when you do a fast one hand operation to open it. For this price point I'd want those kind of problems sorted out in testing/R&D. Would probably go with a wave after watching this. Thanks a million
I have the p4. When I open the pliers, sometimes the tools pop out that are now inside the plier handle. The reason that this doesn't really bother me is that as soon as I started using the pliers, which involves me sticking my finger inside the handle to open up the pliers, all of those tools go back immediately. If I opened the pliers blind and did not realize that those tools had popped out, still, when I start to use the pliers, they will immediately go back into place just by the action of my opening up the pliers. So, no, this defect does not bother me in any way.
I thought I finally had a replacement for my original PST. It’s 30 years old and past the warranty that I never needed to use. I tried other models, but always went back to the PST. The P4 seemed perfect for me, for exactly one month, then I used the awl. Instead of a point, they put a mini screwdriver at the end. I tried to make a peg hole bigger in a medicine cabinet made of fiberboard. Snap, the mini screwdriver broke. It didn’t bend, it snapped off. I didn’t use a lot of pressure either. Add $15 in shipping to the $140 and it’s covered. I never had to use a Leatherman warranty, and I have a PST, Signal, Surge and MUT. I had to use it for the P4 after 30 days. It’s a nice one-handed tool but the integration does not work for me on all tools.
The one that I ordered today has a clip on the thing, the one in the video does not have a clip. I intend to carry this inside the waistband as I do not like sheathes.
Erin My P4 doesn't do that. The balisong action is an easy way to open the tool. The other tools don't come open when I butterfly mine open. I like the science behind the magnets. It is easy to operate and access the tool sets. I do realize that magnets are expensive. For me, it's worth it. Now to choose between the wave and P4? I own them both. They are both premium tools that I have high confidence in.
Im staying with the Leatherman super tool 300, i owen alot of these small leatherman's i have the original from 1988,and so on,in effective working tools the small version like my wave,the gerber sport USA Sog,what works for EDC and camping? one tools does both Leatherman super tool 300 rocks!!!!!
I would love to see a followup review a year later., to see how well those magnets are holding up. I have had a lot of magnets lose their attraction, and not hold as well.
I have had a Leatherman Wingman for the past 6-7 years. I replaced an old Leatherman SuperTool with it. Never had an issue. I will not ever replace it unless it just totally breaks or I lose it.
Thanks for the review. Only thing I have to disagree on is your statement that, if you're someone who uses his tool on a daily base at work, you should go for the Free. In my opinion it's the opposite, the Free will get you out of trouble when you need something done once in a while. But for daily use, the Wave/surge with the replaceable bits (and replaceable sawblade one the Surge) will last a lot longer than the dedicated drivers and thin "flimsy feeling" tools on the Free P series. Just my own humble opinion. As a collector I really appreciate the new platform the Free offers, and maybe in time, Leatherman can use this platform to produce a tool that will be a game changer, but for now, the new kid in town gets his *ss kicked by the old timer on the porch. Greetings from Belgium, Eric
The tools on the free series aren't 'thin and flimsy feeling'. This is a flagship tool. As far as which tool is better for every day hard use goes, it just depends on the nature of the work. I use my MT everyday in maintenance tech and I definitely prefer the one handed access over the replaceability of bits and files. I spend a lot more time securing things above my head and on ladders where needing one hand for leverage is essential - I've had to put everything down, balance it on top of a ladder, come down and deploy my tool then head back up more times than I care for. Meanwhile the number of times I've had a multi-tool bit or file that needed to be replaced is zero; for hard use applications my impact driver or other power tools are doing the job. The multi tool is just for convenience. I find it hard to imagine a full time use for a multi tool where dedicated tools won't take the brunt of the wear and tear to the point of needing to replace the bits more often than a newer better tool will capture your attention and replace an older tool. If they exist, which I'm sure they do, then I would agree that something with replaceable bits and a cheaper price point makes more sense.
SKELETOOL in my pocket everyday for the last 8 years, even at the wedding i attended last week lol. i have wave, surge, TT etc if need but that damn skeletool did 90% of everything i need.
Have the same issue with the magnets releasing tools but it doesn't bother me. Carry this over my wave because it will cut through coaxial cable in one squeeze (rg6 and 59 anyway) but my wave takes at least two tries because its smaller and wimpier. My phillips is also magnetized, which is a nice bonus when working with wall plate screws. Strippers aren't great for telephony though, you really need a dedicated tool for that. Opens my coke from the burrito place well. The wave is better all around and if it ever hits the fan that's what I'll want in pocket, but for a cable tech the P4 is the daily carry winner.
I bought mine new in 2020. Mine doesn't pop out the tools when I snap the plyers. I broke the p2. I still have to send that in. I wasn't impressed with the surge the handle was really loose I've tried tightening everything but that handle sucks. Two hand open plyers are not cool. So the surge for me was a waste.
I've watched a bunch of reviews of the Free series and got to work with a P4 on a camping trip some time ago. To me, they're more like fidget toys than working tools. While the scissors are excellent and the blades aren't terrible, the rest of the tools are amusing, at best. The ":file" and the "ruler" are downright hilarious.
Returned the P4 after a couple of days, trying to open the main blade was incredibly frustrating with my right thumb (sharp edge and too tight). Plus it’s not worth $140 - should be only $100
I own a the Center drive you should do a Leatherman Free vs Center drive video. That be pretty exciting to see. I like the concept of the free series but just on the video alone not i am not convince to shell out for it just yet.
I was really set on getting the p4. I kept watching review after review and I tried to overlook all of the flaws (flex in the handles, stiffness after cutting hard wire, tools popping out of handle upon opening) but finally decided on getting a charge instead. The free has basic 420 blade steel, no bit driver, a stubby file, and with all of the flaws for $140 I just decided against it. Plus I figure I will probably be able to get the charge open one handed and both of the knives are one hand opening. I can see how it might be nice with the saw or file, but who really needs to be able to one hand open a screwdriver or can opener. The free is a great concept but I went with the charge for now until leatherman works out some of the kinks in the lineup.
I use the OHT every day at work multiple times and love the one handed operation and has all the tools I need and perform great. The P4 looks great to but for the $300 Australian price tag the OHT will be staying in my pocket.
I don't feel like this is a step forward with lesser tools on this. The 2D Phillip's is one example. Leatherman does not have to innovate every year just because the people scream for it. The wave is almost perfection already.
I carry a Surge but it feels too heavy. Might get that Free P4 cause the ability for one handed operation seems practical. I’ll throw the Surge into my tool box.
how comfortable is working with it when using the tools? The Wave has sharp edges and digs into my palm whenever I have to put some force while working with it....too many hot spots. So many tools, such a nice package, but so uncomfortable to actually use the Wave :-(
I'm probably in the minority. I don't really have a nice multi tool and I have a propensity for losing things and do NOT want a replaceable bit set. I can see the day where I'll need it and it'll be gone. To me an all on one tool shouldn't have accessories, otherwise it's not really an all in one. I may change my mind after having this a while, but would rather not have it. It's actually hard to find one without it, so I ordered the P4.
Reason I stay with my wave is because of the removable bits. They make a free with that I might give it a try. I use my different bits more than I use any other tool on the the wave.
This Free does the same things that my 8 year old Wave does. The biggest difference is that it took me 4 years to get it that way from using it, where you can buy this one and it does the same thing. I am on the fence of buying this, even though it's more than a year been out. Maybe I'll wait 25 years and then buy it lol
Just when I thought about looking at this tool to buy, you have already done a review! I had a surge in Afghanistan and they are stand alone tools. Looking at the p4 for a hunting companion.
Regular Wave for me still. One handed seems too much of a gimmick. I miss the bit driver and tiny screwdriver too. I stay away from magnets on carry since I wear mechanical watches and don’t want them to mess with my movements.
I like the concept of the tool. I like the blade shape on the wave much better. I like the drivers better on the Rebar. The file is useless like on the Sidekick/ Wingman. For $140 it would have to be better than what I already have in some ways it is. To make the purchase I would need a better blade steel a better blade shape, and $15 to $20 lower price point with the blade changes.
easier way to clean the metal filings out of your tool is to take a stronger magnet, like a cheap bar magnet from amazon, put it inside a rubber glove, and then grab all of the filings off of the leatherman with that. The filings will preferencially stick to the stronger magnet and your tool will be cleaned. Then remove the glove from the magnet and your magnet will be clean for its next use.
In my humble opinion take the money you'd spend on the P4 and buy the charge plus for about 100 bucks on eBay and an Ontario Rat 1 or equal pocket knife....oooooor spend the 140 on a charge plus TTI (on eBay) and just run the multiool game with the most baller tool out there.
Very good review and brought up some great points. My concern was in urban settings, going through “detectors “ in stores, would the magnets set them off? Most of them work on magnetisms.
Thanks for the in-depth review. We always appreciate people putting in time to try out our tools and provide honest feedback.
Leatherman some feedback: I own nearly every model multi-tool you’ve ever produced and the P4 is the only tool where my plierheads will bind. At times they bind to the point where the force needed to open and close the pliers is greater than that required to fold the tool.
Other than that, I do like the tool, especially in combination with the old Tool Adapter so it can use bits.
A specialized bit solution would be great, tho.
He is part of the inspiration behind me starting my own channel. I traded my Free P4 for an OHT, and I don’t regret the trade. I do miss some of the Free P4’s features, and will probably buy one again once it is available in more colors like the Free K2 and Free T4 have to offer.
Genesis Check out Shapeways.com. There is a guy who has made all sorts of blade exchanges and modifications for the Free P4, and other Free line of tools and knives.
Leatherman. I have such a wide variety of your tools. Some of my relatives think I’m abnormal. But I’m the first call when something breaks. OHT is my favorite
Leatherman: I own a Rebar, I used the pliers to dig out a pair of keys that fell outta my hand into a crevice on the ground.when I finally got to the keys and cleaned my Rebar later that day I noticed that on one side of the pliers it looked “uneven”,now I’ve owned letterman tools before,”the original OST”.and I’ve used that tool for pretty much everything to get me outta of a pinch.the tool still looks the same.has your tools gone down in quality..?
This is why I subscribed and recommended this channel to friends. You give honest opinions. OPINIONS. "should you buy the p4 if you already have a wave.... NO" honesty. Keeps me subscribed and watching.
I am a service tech and this tool is awesome. I am often holding something in place with one hand and can’t let go, so this tools one handed operation is perfect for my needs.
I picked up the Free P4 after watching your video. I have had it about 8 months and can say I find myself using every day. Best multi-tool I have every owed. I even seem to go for it first for a lot of basic knife tasks over my EDC Kershaw Link knife which I also love.
Leatherman: “Let’s put a bunch of flat screwdrivers on each tool so we can say we have plenty of tools”.
Mr. negativity
Victorinox Spirit X and Leatherman Wave have my vote.
I just bought the Spirit Plus system. It's a nice multi-tool but takes some working in because it's very stiff.
@@greekveteran2715 I agree. It just wasn't expected to me. I had been using the same SOG MT since 2010 and had got used to it. I didn't expect the Victorinox to be so tight. Now that I have got used to it, I like it. I've since worked it in by moving the parts while chilling at my desk. It's a great tool. The only thing I wish it had that my SOG MT does is a measuring stick on the handles. Regardless, It's a high quality MT and my new EDC. I love having a rachet and other tools on my hip. It offers way more than my SOG MT did.
@@isaiahii6982 "Tight" isn't a negative. The Victorinox multitools are not balisongs, or one-handed tactical devices. The rigid movements of opening and closing a Vic multitool are much-loved. My 20+ year old SwissTool is STILL rigid. And, no flop or looseness, unlike my 20+ year old LM Wave.
These tools have no need to be broken in. Sure, useage loosens them a bit. But that tightness is not a tool problem.
The Victorinox SwissTool X is the standard against which all other multitools should be judged.
Hi Jose from Puerto Rico and I just subscribed to your channel. I enjoyed this video and as of November 23, 2020 at 12:40 am (can't sleep with this horrible toothache ) a Leatherman p4 will be delivered to me today. I've seen a lot of videos here and they most of them talk negative about the p4. Anyhow I saw them after I pulled the trigger and will make the best of it. I'm not a tradesman and have been retired since 2007. Arthritis on my hands is catching up and saw the one handed operation of the p4 and that was the selling point for me. I had owned a Wave before and I gave it to my nephew as a gift. I've been owning a Leatherman Crunch with the locking plier mechanism for many years now and for me it's a wonderful tool. Decided to add the p4. Who knows, maybe down the line I'll purchase the Wave again, since I love these multitools for their design and can get you out of a pinch when you mostly need a tool on hand.
I bought one of these just because I'm an MT addict and cannot say no to any MT, but it should MSRP for $99 and street price for even less. $140 is just too much for this one.
It is 180 euro's in europe... (200 $) 😲
@@SyroBTK $320 AUD
@@fraznofire2508 we are being f#cked with the prizes...
FraznoFire haha the 400$ tti
An auction thread !!!
I have both the Wave and Free P4.
The P4 is on my belt every day for work. The 1 hand use is a huge bonus when wearing gloves. I also much prefer the knife shape. The large flat head screwdriver tool seems like a waste of space, however, I've found it better used for prying rather than flat head screwing.
My Wave is my weekender. Great all rounder and as I'm not wearing gloves, I don't mind having to use 2 hands to access some tools.
I think the P4 has a way to go, and I'm sure Leatherman may make a few adjustments to it in the future (one handed thumb holes are too inset for ease of use while wearing gloves, and no choice to swap screw driver bits). Personally though, the P4 knife shape is much better suited for my work.
Don't need a bottle opener. Don't need a can opener. Most people know how to open these things without the specific tools. Leatherman could save space/weight or even add a more useful tool in their place. It's like keeping cork screws on Victorinox.
I’ve been using a wave for 7 years everyday working on wind turbines…I can one hand open and close it easily. Unfortunately the free won’t work for me as I am in an extremely dirty environment and these magnets will catch everything. Looks like I’ll be sticking with ol faithful. Thanks for the vid.
My P4 doesn't have as big of an issue with accidental deployment when you open the pliers. Maybe their is variation in magnet strength. I think the P4 shines more if you pocket your multitools rather than sheath carry where you are able to keep a bit kit with it to expand your capabilities. I own the P4 and a charge and I pocket carry so I almost never have a bit kit handy. For now I keep the charge in my truck with the accessories, but the P4 I carry at work. The scissors and pliers both seem substantially better on the P4, I like the driver's but I wish the other 4 tools were better thought out.
I really like the concept of the Free P4 but I have several issues for MY daily work use... I'm sure it will work just fine for most people... First... The file is useless... I use it a lot on newly cut sheet metal to smooth off the dangerous sharp edges... Second... I need the bit kit... I encounter all types of fasteners from philips, flat, hex, torx, star, exc... Third... I use the saw more than I thought I would... Mostly to saw through super thick cardboard containers used to ship metal pars so I can get them in the cardboard compacter... And finally... $140 is to much... You can get the Surge for around $100... Bit kit is around $25... And the bit extension is $15... I will deal with the extra weight so I can get 64 tools...
I have been a Surge owner for many years and it was always my go to MT. Problem was, it needed to be carried in a sheath on my belt. I purchased the pocket clip that goes on it but found out that it just doesn’t work, is weak & wobbly and easily broken. So I finally tired of having the heavy sheath/MT on my belt and there was no suitable alternative for carrying it. Enter the P4. I got the pocket clip that comes with the P2 and put it on the P4. Now I have a great MT and I can carry it in my pocket. The pocket clip that fits on the P4 is a real one and super solid. That’s how the P4 became my EDC tool. BTW, I have never had the other tools partially open when deploying the pliers. I think it may just be the tool you have.
In Australia it works out to be $US211. Yeah nah. I'll keep my Charge.
As a contractor, I really like those multiple long flat screwdrivers, I really dont need ph or tx bits on the go, I can open anything with a single flat one, and If I need to screw a lot of bits, I just check in my tool bag for the proper screwdriver.
I had a wave and a couple of other models, but for me the Skeletool is way more useful in my everyday carry situations.
It LOOKS like it has the same hammering surface as the ARC but no one ever mentions it, including Learherman's website. Which is very disappointing.
Yes it is,I'm ordering a p4 to compare with my new Arc I got back in December,I love the magnacut blade,both great tools but if you change a few tools on p4 an the blade then you'll have an og Arc essentially.
I own two of the Leatherman Free P4, and the smaller tools do stay in place when flick it open aggressively. It might just be your unit. @6:30
Nice review. I have 5 Leatherman, unless the next one starts paying my rent, I'm all set.
shcmoly may i ask what model they are and what is your favorite?
Juice, Surge, Squirt, Sidekick, Wave. No real fav. Squirt is pretty useless, Surge is a giant beast, Wave is probably better all around, Juice has the power to weight ratio.
Anyone out there watching this recently, the bit where he shows how the tools sorta come out when you deploy the pliers, I got some info about that. I just got my P-4 today 6-26-20 and been playing and practicing with it and it seems like it doesn’t do it as bad as you see in the video. Sometimes it doesn’t do it at all but here and there just a few of the tools do start to come out a little just not as bad as you see his was.
I got the new Arc last December for my birthday just to see what all hate was about,I waited on them to work out the bad cutters that was going around,so far mine has been great,I'm ordering a p4 just to have,my buddy just ordered one,I don't have that problem with the tools flopping out when flipping out the pliers on the Arc,I'm really loving the magnacut blade,big improvement,yes it's expensive but it does everything I need daily an has a better self than the P4.
I am a carpenter at a federal complex we have multiple buildings. I currently carry a Surge in a belt pouch with other tools. For me I love the idea of a one-handed opening set of pliers and tools however I actually use a lot of the components of my multi-tool, having the ability to use jigsaw blades in the surge allows me to complete a variety of tasks that otherwise I'd have to bring a cart full of tools. I would love to see a new Free with the interchangeability of tools more like the Surge.
I own a Surge, Wave, two 300's that I've used for 25 years, and now a P4.
When picking one think about where and how you'll use it most.
Hard-use everyday: Surge, its a heavy beast, very adaptable, the "wear" tools are easily replaced.
The Surge is not a good pick for trekking/bush use, but its perfect for farm/industrial.
EDC urban/military/tinkerer: Wave, versatile like the Surge but lighter and easier to live with.
EDC woodsman/camping/trekking/military: this is where the P4 shines, everything you need and more, quick/easy and one-handed, no loose parts/bits.
Also.. Both, my Surge and Waves have cut the side of my thumb when opening (not sure how or why), but for that reason alone I never take them out on the trail anymore.
Spot on reason I ordered one as EDC but for camping/trekking and secondary purpose.
Good idea only needing one hand, but I still prefer my well used black Surge!
I would have liked to see you compare the toolsets, between the wave and the surge to the free. The Free looks like the tools are from the cheaper wingman. $140.00 for a magnetic wingman?
Larry they should use the tools from wave instead would be better to have magnetic wave rather them magnetic wingman
A statement made by someone who isn’t familiar with the wingman…..at all.
I already have Rebar for edc and Signal for outdoor so i'm not into buying another Leatherman but i was curious about that new one so i'm happy to see it reviewed!
I'll be sticking with my leatherman wave. It's been to hell and back and asked to go again. Everytime I try another tool, I always go back to the wave soon after.
Mickiey Slim , try using P series with gloves - it just opens your eyes for main problem of wave/surge - not being able to access your tools while wearing gloves. No need to take off gloves to reach those f&@?ing nail nicks.
I liked the free series for the most part but lack of removable bits was a deal breaker for me
Same with the saw blade.
I agree, no saw blade, and no bit driver is a deal breaker.
THE WAVE HANDS DOWN! !! People are amazed it's a MT when i i deploy and closeit SO FAST, They think i have a butterfly knife. i have owned other various MTs , But The WAVE IS TRIED and TRUE.
Fully agree with your comment. Tested under harsh conditions¡
The tool is great especially for people with disabillities. I still love my Surge and after changing the broken scissors is good as new now 5 years later.
I carry a p4 and love it. One other thing to consider with the magnets, is if you wear a mechanical watch. Just be cautious not to let them sit together on your dresser or if you’re laying your hand next to where it’s clipped or in the pouch. Not a huge deal if you have a demagnetizer for your watch.
As far as the tools deploying when opening? Mine will do it about half the time I open it, but it hasn’t bothered me enough to not carry and use the tool.
Regarding your tool having loose tools when activating scissors, I recommend you send back to leatherman for a tuneup, it’s free and it takes about 3 weeks total.
I was having same issue but with belt clip where screws kept losing their grip making the clip fall off. The fixed and sent back nice and sharp. Good videos!
I like the idea behind it but the lack of versatility at $140 is holding me back. At $140 I would expect to see the ability to use the Leatherman bit kit. If I buy the P4 it will be for the sake of the channel. Otherwise I'll stick to my Surge and Swisschamp
The Leatherman Wave + is the winner for me.
The file is way to small
I purchased a free P4 for my birthday and spent two hundred and twenty only because I live in Canada and our monetary system sucks,but I gotta say I definitely agree with your conclusion that the P4 is a tool that is specifically designed for the person who will be using the tool often, I enjoy it but I am gonna stick with my Wave for an EDC tool.
better than the UK, it's on discount right now and it's £152.95 (246 CAD). I'm actually going to Toronto soon and was thinking of buying it there to save money.
Definitely the wave plus is the way to go not having a free swinging main handle you can use the handles for additional reach for your screw drivers and files and blades
Had to send my wave + in for repairs and bought a p4 to use while it's out of service. So far impressed with the build of the p4 compared to some reviews I saw. Not super impressed with the 1 hand deployment as I could also whip my wave open and feel like the wave deploys better. Find the p4 kind of cumbersome in the hand compared to my wave. Think once I get my wave back I'm going to stick to the wave at work and pocket carry my p4 during the weekend for its bling.
Guess this will be my new fidgetting toy when piloting my desk.
I’m going to stick with my rebar.
Sticking with Surge
I love my Rebar. Small, light weight, tough, and the tools are better (philips driver).
I agree! My coyote brown rebar is just right! It’s lighter and durable. I wish they made the wave style with some rebar tools.
Same
The Rebar is a great size and weight, when I carry any MT a knife paired with is my SOP. With the exception of a skeletool in shorts.
I've been carrying a sidekick since 2016 & and it's never let me down, I was looking for an upgraded model, and I went with the p4! It should be arriving sometime next week
I'm really glad you pointed out how those tools come loose when you do a fast one hand operation to open it. For this price point I'd want those kind of problems sorted out in testing/R&D. Would probably go with a wave after watching this. Thanks a million
Never been an issue for me and I use this daily for over two years.
I have the p4. When I open the pliers, sometimes the tools pop out that are now inside the plier handle. The reason that this doesn't really bother me is that as soon as I started using the pliers, which involves me sticking my finger inside the handle to open up the pliers, all of those tools go back immediately. If I opened the pliers blind and did not realize that those tools had popped out, still, when I start to use the pliers, they will immediately go back into place just by the action of my opening up the pliers. So, no, this defect does not bother me in any way.
I thought I finally had a replacement for my original PST. It’s 30 years old and past the warranty that I never needed to use. I tried other models, but always went back to the PST. The P4 seemed perfect for me, for exactly one month, then I used the awl. Instead of a point, they put a mini screwdriver at the end. I tried to make a peg hole bigger in a medicine cabinet made of fiberboard. Snap, the mini screwdriver broke. It didn’t bend, it snapped off. I didn’t use a lot of pressure either. Add $15 in shipping to the $140 and it’s covered. I never had to use a Leatherman warranty, and I have a PST, Signal, Surge and MUT. I had to use it for the P4 after 30 days. It’s a nice one-handed tool but the integration does not work for me on all tools.
Great video thanks. Like the new Free P4 and it 's great for one handed. The one handed bandit and Captain Hook both agree.
Interesting but still cool with my older blackened Surge Leatherman and EDC Juice C2.
I think it's pretty great. Only thing missing are the hammer and a big bit holder, cause I use Torx screws most the time.
Ive used the p2 for daily use for a long while now. Zero issues and comes in handy a lot.
The one that I ordered today has a clip on the thing, the one in the video does not have a clip. I intend to carry this inside the waistband as I do not like sheathes.
Erin
My P4 doesn't do that. The balisong action is an easy way to open the tool. The other tools don't come open when I butterfly mine open. I like the science behind the magnets. It is easy to operate and access the tool sets. I do realize that magnets are expensive. For me, it's worth it. Now to choose between the wave and P4? I own them both. They are both premium tools that I have high confidence in.
I bought a newer model p4 with the pocket clip and I can confirm my model doesnt have that problem with some tools popping out during opening
Im staying with the Leatherman super tool 300, i owen alot of these small leatherman's i have the original from 1988,and so on,in effective working tools the small version like my wave,the gerber sport USA Sog,what works for EDC and camping? one tools does both Leatherman super tool 300 rocks!!!!!
Thanks for the video Aaron, I'll personally stick to my ReBar
I would love to see a followup review a year later., to see how well those magnets are holding up. I have had a lot of magnets lose their attraction, and not hold as well.
I have had a Leatherman Wingman for the past 6-7 years. I replaced an old Leatherman SuperTool with it. Never had an issue. I will not ever replace it unless it just totally breaks or I lose it.
Thanks for the review.
Only thing I have to disagree on is your statement that, if you're someone who uses his tool on a daily base at work, you should go for the Free. In my opinion it's the opposite, the Free will get you out of trouble when you need something done once in a while. But for daily use, the Wave/surge with the replaceable bits (and replaceable sawblade one the Surge) will last a lot longer than the dedicated drivers and thin "flimsy feeling" tools on the Free P series. Just my own humble opinion.
As a collector I really appreciate the new platform the Free offers, and maybe in time, Leatherman can use this platform to produce a tool that will be a game changer, but for now, the new kid in town gets his *ss kicked by the old timer on the porch.
Greetings from Belgium,
Eric
The tools on the free series aren't 'thin and flimsy feeling'. This is a flagship tool.
As far as which tool is better for every day hard use goes, it just depends on the nature of the work. I use my MT everyday in maintenance tech and I definitely prefer the one handed access over the replaceability of bits and files. I spend a lot more time securing things above my head and on ladders where needing one hand for leverage is essential - I've had to put everything down, balance it on top of a ladder, come down and deploy my tool then head back up more times than I care for.
Meanwhile the number of times I've had a multi-tool bit or file that needed to be replaced is zero; for hard use applications my impact driver or other power tools are doing the job. The multi tool is just for convenience.
I find it hard to imagine a full time use for a multi tool where dedicated tools won't take the brunt of the wear and tear to the point of needing to replace the bits more often than a newer better tool will capture your attention and replace an older tool. If they exist, which I'm sure they do, then I would agree that something with replaceable bits and a cheaper price point makes more sense.
My Wave, Surge and Skeletool aren't going away anytime soon. I'll pass on this, if it aint broke......
SKELETOOL in my pocket everyday for the last 8 years, even at the wedding i attended last week lol. i have wave, surge, TT etc if need but that damn skeletool did 90% of everything i need.
Have the same issue with the magnets releasing tools but it doesn't bother me. Carry this over my wave because it will cut through coaxial cable in one squeeze (rg6 and 59 anyway) but my wave takes at least two tries because its smaller and wimpier. My phillips is also magnetized, which is a nice bonus when working with wall plate screws. Strippers aren't great for telephony though, you really need a dedicated tool for that. Opens my coke from the burrito place well. The wave is better all around and if it ever hits the fan that's what I'll want in pocket, but for a cable tech the P4 is the daily carry winner.
Another EXCELLENT and well-thought out review Aaron!
Does it have hot spots with the more square design than the wave?
I bought mine new in 2020. Mine doesn't pop out the tools when I snap the plyers. I broke the p2. I still have to send that in. I wasn't impressed with the surge the handle was really loose I've tried tightening everything but that handle sucks. Two hand open plyers are not cool. So the surge for me was a waste.
I like the P4 and p2 better than wave but I feel the price point should be around 100 for P4 and 75 for p2
I've watched a bunch of reviews of the Free series and got to work with a P4 on a camping trip some time ago. To me, they're more like fidget toys than working tools. While the scissors are excellent and the blades aren't terrible, the rest of the tools are amusing, at best. The ":file" and the "ruler" are downright hilarious.
Returned the P4 after a couple of days, trying to open the main blade was incredibly frustrating with my right thumb (sharp edge and too tight). Plus it’s not worth $140 - should be only $100
I own a the Center drive you should do a Leatherman Free vs Center drive video. That be pretty exciting to see. I like the concept of the free series but just on the video alone not i am not convince to shell out for it just yet.
I was really set on getting the p4. I kept watching review after review and I tried to overlook all of the flaws (flex in the handles, stiffness after cutting hard wire, tools popping out of handle upon opening) but finally decided on getting a charge instead. The free has basic 420 blade steel, no bit driver, a stubby file, and with all of the flaws for $140 I just decided against it. Plus I figure I will probably be able to get the charge open one handed and both of the knives are one hand opening. I can see how it might be nice with the saw or file, but who really needs to be able to one hand open a screwdriver or can opener. The free is a great concept but I went with the charge for now until leatherman works out some of the kinks in the lineup.
I haven’t had any of these issues.
I can tell you my tools don't pop out when I quickly lock the pliers on the p4
I use the OHT every day at work multiple times and love the one handed operation and has all the tools I need and perform great. The P4 looks great to but for the $300 Australian price tag the OHT will be staying in my pocket.
If you're at work and around an air compressor you can just blow your tool off if it gets that magnet dust on it
a good balanced review... thank you for doing this vid.
Love your reviews!!!
You bring up things people do not think
Thanks!
Really appreciate that!
I don't feel like this is a step forward with lesser tools on this. The 2D Phillip's is one example. Leatherman does not have to innovate every year just because the people scream for it. The wave is almost perfection already.
@Kenneth Herrick The wave's knives weren't strong enough.
It would be great if Leatherman came out with a HVAC specific multi tool with a core remover lol.
Nice review, no unnecessary comments. Explanation and actual working video of tools were great. Subbed.
Price is double what its worth. You're just paying for the leatherman name , not the product.
Brand value is collected over time by the actual quality of the product itself.
Also the 25yr warranty
Technology + warranty = worth it
Hey Aron. What are the weight comparisons? The P4 seems heavy as hell.
Same as the wave
I carry a Surge but it feels too heavy. Might get that Free P4 cause the ability for one handed operation seems practical. I’ll throw the Surge into my tool box.
how comfortable is working with it when using the tools? The Wave has sharp edges and digs into my palm whenever I have to put some force while working with it....too many hot spots. So many tools, such a nice package, but so uncomfortable to actually use the Wave :-(
I'm probably in the minority. I don't really have a nice multi tool and I have a propensity for losing things and do NOT want a replaceable bit set. I can see the day where I'll need it and it'll be gone. To me an all on one tool shouldn't have accessories, otherwise it's not really an all in one. I may change my mind after having this a while, but would rather not have it. It's actually hard to find one without it, so I ordered the P4.
I have the Leatherman Super Tool, Surge and just bought the Free P4 today! I love them all!
I have this model too after almost 6 months all the one handed features have gunked up due to the fact magnets like to pick up metal shavings.
Man that SUCKS!!!
Reason I stay with my wave is because of the removable bits. They make a free with that I might give it a try. I use my different bits more than I use any other tool on the the wave.
Great Review! Sticking with my Rebar and Surge. Got them both on sale and paid less combined than I would for the P4.
I was exited for this I thought it would be a game charger, it’s not. It went in the drawer & my wave with the pocket clip went back in my pocket
Hey Gideon can you tell us what you think about the T4 Leatherman version?
Great video. Try an air compressor to quickly remove those magnetized shavings.
Or duct tape and a bigger magnet
Is there like a sharpened tanto tip on the serrated blade? Looks like it.
This Free does the same things that my 8 year old Wave does. The biggest difference is that it took me 4 years to get it that way from using it, where you can buy this one and it does the same thing.
I am on the fence of buying this, even though it's more than a year been out. Maybe I'll wait 25 years and then buy it lol
Still keeping my old but gold Leatherman Pulse
THANKS for doing and posting this comparison. Multitools have become confusing to me due to all the options. This sorted the subject out well.
If you drop this one on the floor it opens because of the magnets lose their "grip". I think I prefer the Wave Plus.
Just when I thought about looking at this tool to buy, you have already done a review! I had a surge in Afghanistan and they are stand alone tools. Looking at the p4 for a hunting companion.
Regular Wave for me still. One handed seems too much of a gimmick. I miss the bit driver and tiny screwdriver too.
I stay away from magnets on carry since I wear mechanical watches and don’t want them to mess with my movements.
I like the concept of the tool. I like the blade shape on the wave much better. I like the drivers better on the Rebar. The file is useless like on the Sidekick/ Wingman. For $140 it would have to be better than what I already have in some ways it is. To make the purchase I would need a better blade steel a better blade shape, and $15 to $20 lower price point with the blade changes.
easier way to clean the metal filings out of your tool is to take a stronger magnet, like a cheap bar magnet from amazon, put it inside a rubber glove, and then grab all of the filings off of the leatherman with that. The filings will preferencially stick to the stronger magnet and your tool will be cleaned. Then remove the glove from the magnet and your magnet will be clean for its next use.
This is one of the best multi tool videos That I have ever watched; very detailed and informative. Thank you Aaron
So the P4 or the Surge....????
In my humble opinion take the money you'd spend on the P4 and buy the charge plus for about 100 bucks on eBay and an Ontario Rat 1 or equal pocket knife....oooooor spend the 140 on a charge plus TTI (on eBay) and just run the multiool game with the most baller tool out there.
Glad I found this I've had a wave for years and was looking at these but wasn't sure if it was worth getting or not
Very good review and brought up some great points. My concern was in urban settings, going through “detectors “ in stores, would the magnets set them off? Most of them work on magnetisms.
Are you trimming your suburban hedges with that?