One thing I like about having a can opener is the ability to punch holes in metal to make, for example, a hobo stove out of a can. You don't have to worry about blunting your knife or awl
I had one of these Signals for the longest time. One thing no one realizes is that it is much lighter than many Leatherman models. It has everything you need and nothing you don't. Having a pocket clip, belt pouch, AND carabinier, it has many options for carry. I took it everywhere. I used the pocket clip until it broke off. I used the carabinier until my belt loops broke. It made fires. I used it for cooking when the handle broke off my pot. It scaled and gutted fish. It did electrical work(wire stripper on the can opener is quite usable). I used it on motorcycles, ATV's, UTV's, watercraft, and generators as a Yamaha Technician. And of course, the bottle opener was my go to when the day was done. When my wife and I filed for our marriage license,the officer that "held" my Leatherman went off duty with it. The day I legally married my wife is the day I lost my Leatherman. I'll never forget. I keep meaning to buy another, but they aren't cheap and I just have too many bigger priorities. It's one of those little things I'll have again someday, though.
fuckin signal...when I first discovered leatherman the signal was the first one that caught my eye... but I later found that the wave is so much better in everyway. Buy the clip separately and when it brakes its only like 16 bucks. the wave with the clip is TRULY my only (EDC) tool when working- with the clip I can use it as a glove clip for certain gloves when not in use and I'll forget my other handy tools (c wrench) but always carry this one
I remember buying a Signal right when it came out and I loved it. I was in the Army at the time and other multitools were available at the PX but this one seemed cool. Plus it was a bit slimmer and lighter than Gerber's or SOG. This tool was great to have. I had it on me at all times. Had a molle pouch for it that I put on my body armor and it was so useful. Beat the hell out of that thing and I loved it. I gave it to a buddy before I left so he could continue to use it for military use. One of the best tools I ever owned and 1000 times more useful than just a pocket knife.
Is it grunt proof? I really like the victorinox trekker, one reason being its actually used by the swiss army, so i know its grunt worthy, but it doesnt have pliers....
Always bring a whistle. I have a colleague that was an avid hiker and he had a suprise heart attack at 45 years old on a off-trial trek. He wasn't even a massive guy or really unhealthy, medium build and ex- military. The only reason he's still alive is that he whistled until some people found him and they ran down the hill until they could get phone signal to call for air ambulance. It's not weak it's really useful and reliable.
I'm on team "keep the can opener." 1) You can abuse it for things which you wouldn't want to use your knife edge. 2) I actually use it as a can opener about once a month when my regular can opener is in the dishwasher. 3) It's really hard to use any other tool to substitute for a can opener.
So I just did a 5 day fly fishing trip and took this leather man with me! And it worked perfectly! Used it all day everyday! And actually used the whistle to locate someone up stream. Used the can opener for beans, and crimped the barbs on flys all day! Fero rod to cook the beans, and saw to cut wood for a fire. Love this tool! 🤙🏼Thanks Zac!
I love my Signal. I hike and camp, garden, woodwork, fix stuff around the house and just generally try to do things myself. I reach for my Signal everyday and love it. It's a tank. And I know some people think the little diamond sharpener is silly, but it makes for a great little fidget game during long Zoom calls. My blade is always honed and sharp. I've had mine for three years now and it's still going strong.
Great video. Subscribed. My two cents to the conversation is that, aside that the Signal is a great multi tool, many people suggest to carry it in your bag while on the outdoors, I disagree with that, you'd better carry it in your pocket all the time, in case you get separated from your gear accidentally, and find yourself in a survival situation.
I agree. I got a wave + for Christmas last year and I always have it on my belt. When your hunting you should always have at least a knife, lighter, and flashlight in your pocket. Not in your bag.
Yeah, i have the 1gen Wave model in pocket. I use it very rarely, if at all, because i have real knives and KNIPEX Cobra 125 in my everyday use (also short 10 and 13mm wrenches, Yes i adventure with 40 year old Honda). As you said, i use it only as survival tool. And honestly, these tools are pretty bad at anything ;)
Omg can't wait to see this...will update after I finish. Edit: Spot on! Much better than my review in a lot of ways. 2 things though (but probably couldn't have been fit in a 10 min video) * One of the best places to have the original addons IS in the city because your likely to never have them in that setting. The most important one being the whistle (think being trapped, earthquake, flood, etc) *There is a safer way to use the hammer that can give you more force, accuracy, and safety. (I figured this out after watching some primitive tool experts, they use stone hammers with a completely different grip)
This had great production value. Great transitions, the background music was just right, and the lighting was on point. great work. Not to mention the presentation itself was professional, informative, and entertaining.
I used the Signal while I was in the army. It was phenomenal in the field but on top of that, I used the hammer the most when I was a machine gunner. The bolt would get stuck in the forward position and I would beat the charging handle with the hammer end. Cool piece of kit.
A whistle is such a fantastic thing to have in your kit. Lots of hiking backpacks have whistles incorporated into the chest area clip for that reason. To have a tool that can not only make you more capable, but also ask for help is immense. If you're off trail somewhere screaming but the passerby person can't hear you, they may not assume you need help, maybe you're just yelling. With a whistle you can SOS and that's universally recognized even beyond language barriers.
Never even heard of this channel until I saw this video suggested in my feed just now. Guy had me sold in the first 3 seconds when he rolled up on a DT125. Just an added bonus he went on to make a great video.
I definitely think your going to become the top guy on RUclips for knives and multi tools reviews the content itself is better than 90 percent of the competition
I love the Signal. I've also owned a Surge (which I also love) for many years before getting the Signal. Can't tell you how many times I wished my Surge had a hammer, and ended up using the bottom my Surge to tap something in, which really never worked well! The only things I would really change/add to the Signal, is that as a survival tool...it really needs a pair of scissors! At least to cut bandages for wounds. I also wish they added the ruler markings on the outside, like they do with so many of their other Leathermans. (And maybe a classic corkscrew.)
I currently have a surge the only thing making me hesitant on getting one of these as an EDC is the scissors. Have you been in a situation where you were limited with the signal due to needing to use scissors?
@@joshuam3903 Actually, what I did was I just bought a pair of tiny, cheap stainless steel scissors (they cost a buck!). They fit right the case behind the Signal. They aren't very robust, but I only wanted them to be able to gauze or bandages in case of an emergency. I used to do a lot of hiking in the mountains, back in southern CA. So it was nice having that.
The signal was my very first leatherman. I was attracted to the versatility and functionality of the overall unit. 4 years and 4 leatherman’s later and the signal is still my favorite
I have the ToPo Green edition and I absolutely love it. I’ve had it for 5 years. You’ll never catch me outdoors without it whether that’s hiking, backpacking, camping or fishing. Very versatile and useful for any outdoor person. Another tip, the carabiner end is great for pulling out tent stakes. If they’re an L shape on the top.
Hex bit driver hack: placing a rubber o-ring from the plumbing section of Lowe’s or home depot inside the carabiner loop to the opening lock. It applies enough tension to hold a bit without falling. It will break off with wear but if you get a pack of the o-rings, it is about $0.60 for 50-100 and you get about a yr out of 1 ring.
Great review, probably the best for this tool I’ve seen. Practical application demonstrations like using your bike for a prop were a refreshing change of pace for reviews of this type, since most reviewers go for the obvious saw-a-log or light-a-fire demonstrations. Hell, some only talk about it without demonstration. Zac was well-spoken and easy to understand.
pliers are also excellent for a variety of projects using snare wire in a survival setting. this includes seeing snares and such, but also a variety of camp tasks that wire is useful for - things like shelter repair, cooking setups, etc. in regards to the can opener. I think a pruning knife could be a good alternative in that slot. you could just grind it down into one, then you've got a nice tool for foraging and draw cutting.
Hey man, not that you'll ever see this comment, but this review is done extremely well. Between the videography and the actual review of the tool, this was a fantastic video.
We camp (glamp) in a travel trailer and I always have my leatherman free p4 along. I always end up using it too. I don't have buy-a-different-leatherman-for-every-scenario money or I think the Signal would be a great thing to throw in a drawer in the camper. . . or maybe glovebox of the truck since the camper already has saws and fire starters and all that stuff. These videos are so well put together! Covering tons of topics and every aspect of those topics without being even a little bit boring or monotonous (that word looks weird. don't know if I spelled it right.) Excellent production as well. My only complaint is every time I watch one I get the urge to buy a new multi-tool or knife or find an old motorcycle or something like that!
My favorite multi tool of all time. I carry mine all the time. Although I already have a fero rod, whistle and whatnot, I still carry the signal for redundancy. Also love that it has a swappable bit driver
I have carried a leatherman for so long I can’t remember being without. I have a Wave and it gets used multiple times a day. Now I want the Signal. If I ever loose my wave I’ll get one. I’m on my third wave, stuff happens….. not that I’m looking forward to loosing it. Great video!
I love this! I’ve had mine for little under a year now and carry it every time I’m hiking or camping. I can’t count the amount of times I’ve used it for something that I never thought I’d need a tool for! It’s a great little tool to assist your adventures in the outdoors. I think a lot of people complain about this tool as they imagine themselves in a survival situation with only this tool and has to be able to cut down trees, cut through steel glass etc. and make fire after fire. In reality, though it’s fun to think about that, this tool is designed to be the perfect companion in the outdoors and as many of your videos have shown the knife will be used to open boxes or food, the pliers will be used to lift up a pot off the fire, the screwdriver will be used to tighten a pesky screw and perform general tasks well! Like you said it’s everything you want and nothing you don’t it’s a great tool!
Needle-nosed pliers are good for making wire snares and impromptu fish hooks in a survival situation. Screwdrivers could be used for various gear repairs for flashlights, radios, firearms, etc.
Best real world, application review of the Signal I've seen yet, Zac. The Signal seemed to be just another Leatherman offering with a forced survival "twist" until watching this.
I’ve Had mine on my belt for a good 7+years now!! Absolute life saver. Was in the mechanical trade for 6years and now in the construction and still find amazing uses for it!
One of the benefits of the Signal is that you can get it in bright colors (harder to lose, which is why SAK’s are traditionally red). Leatherman also has the Charge in bright G10… it’s more pricey and heavy, although comes with a more complete toolkit. The Rebar is a more lightweight option, with a decent toolkit but no colors.
I’m a forester in deep east Texas and I carry the Leatherman Signal everywhere I go. If I’m in the woods, it’s on my belt and I use it countless times every day. If I’m in the city, it’s in my back pocket as part of my EDC setup and I still use it every day. I have yet to find a better multi-tool specifically for being in the woods.
I have 30 plus multi tools, many of them Leatherman, swiss Army and other less-known makes. I don't have this one you've featured here. I think in the end multi-tools or more of a fascination then particularly valuable as a survival tool. Take your pick but in the end it's more about having fun camping, but yeah you want something compact that does a lot. I will consider buying the one your featuring, I'll have to check into it further. Thanks for the video.
Honestly, they had me at sharpener. Because in a survival situation, you're going to be putting some extreme wear and tear on any tool you can gather up. It doesn't have to last... it just has to last long enough. But being able to sharpen your blade could mean a real difference after using the blade for the "you ought not to" usage it might see.
The sheath that the Wave and the Charge come with has a pocket in it for your bit kit. The pocket is big enough for a flat 2 sided diamond steel. Thats how I carry a sharpener with my multi tool( in addition to I our bit kit)
Thanks for this great video! After various Multitools and Knife Setups the Signal is my absolute favourite EDC and I mean absolutely EDC Tool. Here is a story for you that happened to me. I once forgot to take it off my belt on Security Check when entering a law Court and they kept it for almost 2 weeks 😢 i called a lawyer to ask the police to give the signal back to me …long story short : we reunited🤘🏾 and the officer was commenting : the signal is awesome and ordered one for myself😂 i still have contact to this officer
There is this really neat mod for the signal where you can split it in half and only keep the right side of it (knife,sharpener,screwdriver), and it becomes a pocket knife. It is useful when you dont want to bring the entire thing with you.
I owned that bike when I was ten years old in 1980. Mine was a 73 I believe, and it was blue, but essentially they very same bike. They've gone way up in price and can no longer be had for a couple hundred bucks like they used to be. Cool ride Zak
I am a paramedic and I always carry two multitools from leatherman one the rapI am a paramedic and I always carry two multitools from leatherman one the raptor rescue and this one and both helped me to save patients. I am very thankful and proud that i can own these two wonderfull tools
I love how he actually reviews a used tool! You see everybody review s**t they don't even use, knifes without sratches etc. . Love to see you used it before you reviewed it :D
Fantastic! I have never been this thrilled about a multitool. The option to use normal bits is huge. The combination knife is a bit of a let down, but just a bit. I always carry other knives and use my Wave mostely on things I dont want my other blades to experience. I would miss the file. I dont use it much, but I like to know its there...
It’s my daily carry paired with the Micra. The best tool will be the tool you have on your person when you need it the most in unexpected situations. Signal has been a win for me since 2015. 🔥
The signal is a great piece of gear. I use it all the time as a full time beach camper. Yes I also have a few other multi tools in my backpack, but I love the signal and probably use it the most.
I normally carry a Leatherman wingman but I've been looking at the signal for about a month or 2 and this has sold me on it. Next chance I get I'm picking one up.
wow excellent review! I work for Motion Industries and we sell a lot of cutting tools and abrasives to Leatherman Tool Group here in Portland. Great guys over there!
I got a broken arm and all your videos have been awesome keeping me entertained. As a knife and tool guy and as a car and construction guy. And as a gambler guy the gambler vid was awesome, keep it up, and would love to see more of you and Ben
This is designed to be use with one hand. Remember the guy stuck in the rocks that had to cut his arm off? One handed operation with this tool. It could save your life.
I bought one for myself. Used it a few weeks and bought a second one for my spouse. In a different color. He loves it. He has a million tools and several multi tools but I see vine use this one quite a bit. We are full time campers near the beach.
I’ve got a Signal that lives in my Mystery Ranch Rip Ruck 15. The signal is great goes with me on all my adventures whether that be driving, biking or hiking. It’s a fantastic little tool. I’d love a higher end steel for the knife blade, but to be honest I carry an actual pocket knife and I use the blade more on the that, so the blade in the leather man is a great back up. I also keep a super tool 300 in my glove box and a wing master in my camping box.
I think the steel is actually a good fit for the theme of the tool. While the Charge Plus has that fancy S30V stuff, you'd need to bring an equally fancy diamond sharpening stone into the woods to touch the edge up. With the 420HC steel they use on their more pedestrian offerings, you can literally sharpen the stuff on any river rock or random chunk of stone in your path. And what it lacks in edge retention, it more than makes up in toughness. Ease of sharpening and high toughness are essential for a hard use bush knife.
Own and use a multi tool every day. Bought almost every one that has been produced. Gerber legend 800 with a buck case is my go to for YEARS. Warrantee is second to none, spring loaded pliers are brilliant and compliment of tools is excellent. Never like any Leatherman or Buck options much in multi tools, although I love some of their other products. I have carried the Gerber since it as created and never found anything better. Have one on me daily, in my truck, my bag and given a bunch to friends and family. EDIT... My first one that I broke one part of, my fault after YEARS, I gave to a buddy (assuming I got my use out of it, fairly to the company). He sent it back to Gerber and they sent him a new tool!
My EDC is the Leatherman Surge which has all these "tools" plus the exchangeable saw blade & file mechanism, which is really handy. Now there are the more specialized additions such as the whistle, ferro rod, sharpener, hammer etc, which gives it a few extras to work with, so the Signal is defs in my bug out / camping / hiking bag as an extra multitool where needs be as well. I know people see the Surge as bulky etc, but it's my first multitool and I barely notice it's weight as I got the pocket clip and got it clipped into my front pocket. Signal felt like a knockoff product because it's so lightweight 😅🤣 either way, great video explaining the usefulness of the Signal in survival situations and making it very clear to people who'd like to know more about it as I haven't found any useful videos back when I was on the market for one
Something to note about survival/emergency whistles is how loud and effective they are. In addition to requiring less energy to produce the sound, they actually hit a frequency range that cuts through white noise incredibly well. If you're lost during a rain or snow storm, your voice will not cut through the environmental noise. The whistle will. It is a loud, piercing, irritating sound designed to attract attention.
@@michaelmelling9333 Even so, try this experiment. On another tab, open a "rain sounds" or some other nature environment sound, and let it play in the background and fidget with the two volumes until it is hard to make out what he is saying with his voice. Then go to 1:30, it is some 10s of him talking before the whistle bit comes. Don't look at the video, just listen in and compare how the whistle is still much clearer. Obviously not apples to apples (it is two recorded and edited audio, he is not shouting), but the point of clarity and not getting mushed with natural sounds still remain the same.
I got one this past Christmas and its the perfect fit for what I do working in the forest service in maintenance. I used a Supertool 300 for a while and that replaced most of the tools I use (exception of bolt cutters obviously and a set of channel locks). I work in remote areas often by myself and carrying back up just in case fire starting tools is a must especially right now in winter. I do miss having two separate blades like that of the Supertool 300. I got a lot of use out of the serrated knife blade, it cuts through plastic and zip ties like butter. The Signal blade struggles with that so I may be just pocket my Delica serrated edge knife.
I love the super tool 300 also, it’s got the file! I found the Phillips screwdriver fits into a 1/4 inch socket and the big flathead fits diagonal into a 3/8 drive for light duty usage. Try it out
You can also magnetize the bit holder... they sell little magnetizers at Autoparts places for making your screwdrivers magnetic. You pass them through and magically you have a small amount of magnetization. Do it multiple times and it works reasonably well. Nice vid dude. Leatherman needs to hire you... or, their competition...
@@iverburl never tried it. I'll take one of my wives kitchen knives out to the barn and see. I'll have my sister text back with the results after my funeral.
May get one, too. With a 1/4 drive socket a useful trick is that one can use US impact drill “bits” for light drilling. I’ve made needed holes that way.
One thing I notice about bushcrafters making reviews about the Signal is that it really shows up the good from the bad bushcrafters. For example, you started that fire with one strike but I've seen one fool break his ferro rod AND hack the handle of his Signal right down to the bare metal in the process. He blamed the Signal. Another one was actually trying to scrape the diamond coating from the sharpener using the main knife blade ( yet another one trying unsuccessfully to prove it was only a cheap gimmick ). So many crazy people out there who'd pick a fight with a lamp - post ! For me, I think it's a beautifully designed piece of kit.
Another great video Zac, I enjoy your multi tool reviews. I have a Leatherman ps4 I carry everyday but I’ve been looking at getting a larger Leatherman, the signal has a lot Of great features that I didn’t realize before , thank you for your awesome review. Thanks for staying positive.
Love the video. I carry a signal camping all the time. there are market parts where you can replace the whistle and sharpener with bit carriers. I use those for regular urban carry when I am not camping.
Been thinking about replacing the Rebar in my edc with a different model with the knife accessible when the tool is closed. Really appreciate the signal review.
@@zacinthewild last year I almost bought the signal but after hearing your thoughts on the surge..I bought that instead and it’s in my edc kit..great tool👌🏼
Great vid as always matey. An excellent crash course on multitool usages. Got a couple of mod multitool from dad, replacing the scissors for a laser pointer & adding matches with striker within the handle, just a backup to the ferro rod in the handle. It is almost the best survival apparatus. We do a lot of bikepacking (bicycle) and the modded tool is adequate for our needs. Cheers fro sharing Zac. Cowabunga.!
Awesome video, I've owned the signal for years and still leaned a few new things watching this! I had the original black with yellow accents, but when I found out they started making them in different colours I bought the coyote tan, gave the original to my brother (who absolutely loves it) and ordered a custom aqua one online for my wife using leathermans customize option they offer for the signal (which is sexy af) though she is not a big tool person she still likes it a lot and always has it in her bag just because.
Great review Zac. I'm glad you mentioned the after market options you have if you don't think you'll use the file and whistle. If I bought the Signal that's the route I would go.
@mrsentencename7334 I absolutely love my wave+ the outdoor features on the Signal can easily be replaced by buying a dedicated Firestarter and whistle which probably will work better. Go for the Wave+ for it's versatility and functionality. I use mine in Wildland Firefighting and it's been very handy at the situations I needed it for. Including cutting zip ties from helicopter buckets, or cutting a fence wire because we needed to supress a grass fire on a farmer field lol.
Leatherman are great been carrying a wave for many years only thing I don’t like is no awl. The signal I hate serrated blades and the can opener is not going out. Why you would say that is not based on common sense. Especially if you travel anywhere out of the country. You can usually find a can anywhere you go and can be used for many things. Like your vids and the old bikes when I was a kid they were new at the time. Brings back memories.
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
Yo Leatherman! You see this guy? This is the guy you want to spend your marketing budget on.
Thanks buddy! I’m always open to offers Leatherman😁
Jamie’s production and Zach’s charisma and presentation
I feel like they did... not that there's anything wrong with that. But I'm new here. Maybe not. I'm open to whatever
Been entertained by you guys since that company you used to work for. Love the content man, glad yall are teaming up 🤘
10000% agree!
I wish this channel was still active. This was the video that made me buy this multi tool which eventually lead me to get outdoors and start camping.
He made a video yesterday.
Seriously… it’s very active still
One thing I like about having a can opener is the ability to punch holes in metal to make, for example, a hobo stove out of a can. You don't have to worry about blunting your knife or awl
Nice
I had one of these Signals for the longest time. One thing no one realizes is that it is much lighter than many Leatherman models. It has everything you need and nothing you don't. Having a pocket clip, belt pouch, AND carabinier, it has many options for carry.
I took it everywhere. I used the pocket clip until it broke off. I used the carabinier until my belt loops broke. It made fires. I used it for cooking when the handle broke off my pot. It scaled and gutted fish. It did electrical work(wire stripper on the can opener is quite usable). I used it on motorcycles, ATV's, UTV's, watercraft, and generators as a Yamaha Technician. And of course, the bottle opener was my go to when the day was done.
When my wife and I filed for our marriage license,the officer that "held" my Leatherman went off duty with it. The day I legally married my wife is the day I lost my Leatherman. I'll never forget. I keep meaning to buy another, but they aren't cheap and I just have too many bigger priorities. It's one of those little things I'll have again someday, though.
The not cheap is the only fault of the signal, but still worth it
fuckin signal...when I first discovered leatherman the signal was the first one that caught my eye...
but I later found that the wave is so much better in everyway. Buy the clip separately and when it brakes its only like 16 bucks.
the wave with the clip is TRULY my only (EDC) tool when working- with the clip I can use it as a glove clip for certain gloves when not in use and I'll forget my other handy tools (c wrench) but always carry this one
@@Matanumi I have a wave, but it's not comfortable in my pockets(I daily carry a lot of other things) It has car duty.
Update?
Maybe let you wife know what would make a good anniversary present... maybe she'll get the idea
I love how specialized the Signal is compared to the traditional Leatherman tools! Definitely one of the coolest designs from Leatherman!
I remember buying a Signal right when it came out and I loved it. I was in the Army at the time and other multitools were available at the PX but this one seemed cool. Plus it was a bit slimmer and lighter than Gerber's or SOG. This tool was great to have. I had it on me at all times. Had a molle pouch for it that I put on my body armor and it was so useful. Beat the hell out of that thing and I loved it. I gave it to a buddy before I left so he could continue to use it for military use. One of the best tools I ever owned and 1000 times more useful than just a pocket knife.
Is it grunt proof?
I really like the victorinox trekker, one reason being its actually used by the swiss army, so i know its grunt worthy, but it doesnt have pliers....
@@thegeth4293Nothing is grunt proof - if can break it - they will 👌💪💪❤️❤️❤️
Great review - well done 🙏💪💪👊🏻👊🏻👊🏻
Always bring a whistle. I have a colleague that was an avid hiker and he had a suprise heart attack at 45 years old on a off-trial trek. He wasn't even a massive guy or really unhealthy, medium build and ex- military. The only reason he's still alive is that he whistled until some people found him and they ran down the hill until they could get phone signal to call for air ambulance.
It's not weak it's really useful and reliable.
Very true. Indispensable. Esp since the sound might carry further and if you're weak and exhausted and hurt your survival odds are better
I'm on team "keep the can opener." 1) You can abuse it for things which you wouldn't want to use your knife edge. 2) I actually use it as a can opener about once a month when my regular can opener is in the dishwasher. 3) It's really hard to use any other tool to substitute for a can opener.
So I just did a 5 day fly fishing trip and took this leather man with me! And it worked perfectly! Used it all day everyday! And actually used the whistle to locate someone up stream. Used the can opener for beans, and crimped the barbs on flys all day! Fero rod to cook the beans, and saw to cut wood for a fire. Love this tool! 🤙🏼Thanks Zac!
I love my Signal. I hike and camp, garden, woodwork, fix stuff around the house and just generally try to do things myself. I reach for my Signal everyday and love it. It's a tank. And I know some people think the little diamond sharpener is silly, but it makes for a great little fidget game during long Zoom calls. My blade is always honed and sharp. I've had mine for three years now and it's still going strong.
Great video. Subscribed. My two cents to the conversation is that, aside that the Signal is a great multi tool, many people suggest to carry it in your bag while on the outdoors, I disagree with that, you'd better carry it in your pocket all the time, in case you get separated from your gear accidentally, and find yourself in a survival situation.
Good take. Thanks for the sub!
1000% agree, I've always Said it actually makes more sense in casual carry vs actual camping.
I agree. I got a wave + for Christmas last year and I always have it on my belt.
When your hunting you should always have at least a knife, lighter, and flashlight in your pocket. Not in your bag.
Yeah, i have the 1gen Wave model in pocket. I use it very rarely, if at all, because i have real knives and KNIPEX Cobra 125 in my everyday use (also short 10 and 13mm wrenches, Yes i adventure with 40 year old Honda). As you said, i use it only as survival tool. And honestly, these tools are pretty bad at anything ;)
@@zacinthewild bro which bag pack
Omg can't wait to see this...will update after I finish.
Edit: Spot on! Much better than my review in a lot of ways.
2 things though (but probably couldn't have been fit in a 10 min video)
* One of the best places to have the original addons IS in the city because your likely to never have them in that setting. The most important one being the whistle (think being trapped, earthquake, flood, etc)
*There is a safer way to use the hammer that can give you more force, accuracy, and safety. (I figured this out after watching some primitive tool experts, they use stone hammers with a completely different grip)
Anyone who’s into multitools and edc needs to check out the Maxlvledc channel! He’s the mad scientist of multitools.
Please tell me more about that stone hammer grip. D:
@@Leftyotism I need to make a video on it, unfortunately too difficult to explain in text.
@@FreedomFox1 I'm a huge fan of Zac's content. I think this sums up the signal really well.
@@maxlvledc Definitely, also his SAK modding vids are great.
This had great production value. Great transitions, the background music was just right, and the lighting was on point. great work. Not to mention the presentation itself was professional, informative, and entertaining.
Spot on, couldn't have said it better.
I used the Signal while I was in the army. It was phenomenal in the field but on top of that, I used the hammer the most when I was a machine gunner. The bolt would get stuck in the forward position and I would beat the charging handle with the hammer end. Cool piece of kit.
A whistle is such a fantastic thing to have in your kit. Lots of hiking backpacks have whistles incorporated into the chest area clip for that reason. To have a tool that can not only make you more capable, but also ask for help is immense. If you're off trail somewhere screaming but the passerby person can't hear you, they may not assume you need help, maybe you're just yelling. With a whistle you can SOS and that's universally recognized even beyond language barriers.
Never even heard of this channel until I saw this video suggested in my feed just now. Guy had me sold in the first 3 seconds when he rolled up on a DT125. Just an added bonus he went on to make a great video.
I definitely think your going to become the top guy on RUclips for knives and multi tools reviews the content itself is better than 90 percent of the competition
I love the Signal. I've also owned a Surge (which I also love) for many years before getting the Signal. Can't tell you how many times I wished my Surge had a hammer, and ended up using the bottom my Surge to tap something in, which really never worked well! The only things I would really change/add to the Signal, is that as a survival tool...it really needs a pair of scissors! At least to cut bandages for wounds. I also wish they added the ruler markings on the outside, like they do with so many of their other Leathermans. (And maybe a classic corkscrew.)
YES! A corkscrew please. When we celebrate a job well done and all the beer was used up in the process for morale support.
I currently have a surge the only thing making me hesitant on getting one of these as an EDC is the scissors. Have you been in a situation where you were limited with the signal due to needing to use scissors?
@@joshuam3903 Actually, what I did was I just bought a pair of tiny, cheap stainless steel scissors (they cost a buck!). They fit right the case behind the Signal. They aren't very robust, but I only wanted them to be able to gauze or bandages in case of an emergency. I used to do a lot of hiking in the mountains, back in southern CA. So it was nice having that.
The signal was my very first leatherman.
I was attracted to the versatility and functionality of the overall unit.
4 years and 4 leatherman’s later and the signal is still my favorite
Probably the best review of this tool that I’ve seen. I have one and after watching this you’ve made me want to use it more.
I have the ToPo Green edition and I absolutely love it. I’ve had it for 5 years. You’ll never catch me outdoors without it whether that’s hiking, backpacking, camping or fishing. Very versatile and useful for any outdoor person. Another tip, the carabiner end is great for pulling out tent stakes. If they’re an L shape on the top.
As a leatherman fan. This multi tool never made sense for me till this vid. You’ve made me think twice now. Thanks for the great content!
Hex bit driver hack: placing a rubber o-ring from the plumbing section of Lowe’s or home depot inside the carabiner loop to the opening lock. It applies enough tension to hold a bit without falling. It will break off with wear but if you get a pack of the o-rings, it is about $0.60 for 50-100 and you get about a yr out of 1 ring.
Great tip. 👊
Hex bit is a #1 requirement for me. Thanks for this suggestion.
Great review, probably the best for this tool I’ve seen. Practical application demonstrations like using your bike for a prop were a refreshing change of pace for reviews of this type, since most reviewers go for the obvious saw-a-log or light-a-fire demonstrations. Hell, some only talk about it without demonstration. Zac was well-spoken and easy to understand.
pliers are also excellent for a variety of projects using snare wire in a survival setting. this includes seeing snares and such, but also a variety of camp tasks that wire is useful for - things like shelter repair, cooking setups, etc.
in regards to the can opener. I think a pruning knife could be a good alternative in that slot. you could just grind it down into one, then you've got a nice tool for foraging and draw cutting.
Hey man, not that you'll ever see this comment, but this review is done extremely well. Between the videography and the actual review of the tool, this was a fantastic video.
Thank you for taking the time to do this video. I'm a proud owner of the Signal myself. Good luck and stay wild and safe.
Really great video! Better than the vague Leatherman channel videos. I appreciate the amount of useful details you give without rambling
We camp (glamp) in a travel trailer and I always have my leatherman free p4 along. I always end up using it too. I don't have buy-a-different-leatherman-for-every-scenario money or I think the Signal would be a great thing to throw in a drawer in the camper. . . or maybe glovebox of the truck since the camper already has saws and fire starters and all that stuff.
These videos are so well put together! Covering tons of topics and every aspect of those topics without being even a little bit boring or monotonous (that word looks weird. don't know if I spelled it right.) Excellent production as well. My only complaint is every time I watch one I get the urge to buy a new multi-tool or knife or find an old motorcycle or something like that!
My favorite multi tool of all time. I carry mine all the time. Although I already have a fero rod, whistle and whatnot, I still carry the signal for redundancy.
Also love that it has a swappable bit driver
I have carried a leatherman for so long I can’t remember being without. I have a Wave and it gets used multiple times a day. Now I want the Signal. If I ever loose my wave I’ll get one. I’m on my third wave, stuff happens….. not that I’m looking forward to loosing it. Great video!
I love this! I’ve had mine for little under a year now and carry it every time I’m hiking or camping. I can’t count the amount of times I’ve used it for something that I never thought I’d need a tool for! It’s a great little tool to assist your adventures in the outdoors.
I think a lot of people complain about this tool as they imagine themselves in a survival situation with only this tool and has to be able to cut down trees, cut through steel glass etc. and make fire after fire. In reality, though it’s fun to think about that, this tool is designed to be the perfect companion in the outdoors and as many of your videos have shown the knife will be used to open boxes or food, the pliers will be used to lift up a pot off the fire, the screwdriver will be used to tighten a pesky screw and perform general tasks well!
Like you said it’s everything you want and nothing you don’t it’s a great tool!
Except the combo blade. Won't buy it because of that foolishness.
Needle-nosed pliers are good for making wire snares and impromptu fish hooks in a survival situation. Screwdrivers could be used for various gear repairs for flashlights, radios, firearms, etc.
Best real world, application review of the Signal I've seen yet, Zac. The Signal seemed to be just another Leatherman offering with a forced survival "twist" until watching this.
Right on!
Thanks Zac, my primary edc multi tool is the signal. The only thing I miss on it from my p4 or wave is the scissors. Great review.
I’ve Had mine on my belt for a good 7+years now!! Absolute life saver. Was in the mechanical trade for 6years and now in the construction and still find amazing uses for it!
yh ive had mine for about 5 years and i absoluteley love it!
One of the benefits of the Signal is that you can get it in bright colors (harder to lose, which is why SAK’s are traditionally red). Leatherman also has the Charge in bright G10… it’s more pricey and heavy, although comes with a more complete toolkit. The Rebar is a more lightweight option, with a decent toolkit but no colors.
Probably my personal favorite multi tool that I’ve seen you talk about yet
Best review of this tool yet! Putting it on my 'to purchase' list. Thanks Zac!
I’m a forester in deep east Texas and I carry the Leatherman Signal everywhere I go. If I’m in the woods, it’s on my belt and I use it countless times every day. If I’m in the city, it’s in my back pocket as part of my EDC setup and I still use it every day. I have yet to find a better multi-tool specifically for being in the woods.
I have 30 plus multi tools, many of them Leatherman, swiss Army and other less-known makes. I don't have this one you've featured here. I think in the end multi-tools or more of a fascination then particularly valuable as a survival tool. Take your pick but in the end it's more about having fun camping, but yeah you want something compact that does a lot. I will consider buying the one your featuring, I'll have to check into it further. Thanks for the video.
Honestly, they had me at sharpener. Because in a survival situation, you're going to be putting some extreme wear and tear on any tool you can gather up. It doesn't have to last... it just has to last long enough. But being able to sharpen your blade could mean a real difference after using the blade for the "you ought not to" usage it might see.
The sheath that the Wave and the Charge come with has a pocket in it for your bit kit. The pocket is big enough for a flat 2 sided diamond steel. Thats how I carry a sharpener with my multi tool( in addition to I our bit kit)
Thanks for this great video! After various Multitools and Knife Setups the Signal is my absolute favourite EDC and I mean absolutely EDC Tool. Here is a story for you that happened to me. I once forgot to take it off my belt on Security Check when entering a law Court and they kept it for almost 2 weeks 😢 i called a lawyer to ask the police to give the signal back to me …long story short : we reunited🤘🏾 and the officer was commenting : the signal is awesome and ordered one for myself😂 i still have contact to this officer
The carabiner is also a cap bottle opener. Thanks for the video Zac.
There is this really neat mod for the signal where you can split it in half and only keep the right side of it (knife,sharpener,screwdriver), and it becomes a pocket knife. It is useful when you dont want to bring the entire thing with you.
Let me know what you guys think of the Signal! I’m on the road with limited signal (no pun intended😁) so I’ll jump in the comments as soon as I can!
Not a fan at all and would never carry one.
no more blade HQ?
I owned that bike when I was ten years old in 1980.
Mine was a 73 I believe, and it was blue, but essentially they very same bike.
They've gone way up in price and can no longer be had for a couple hundred bucks like they used to be.
Cool ride Zak
I am a paramedic and I always carry two multitools from leatherman one the rapI am a paramedic and I always carry two multitools from leatherman one the raptor rescue and this one and both helped me to save patients. I am very thankful and proud that i can own these two wonderfull tools
I love how he actually reviews a used tool! You see everybody review s**t they don't even use, knifes without sratches etc. . Love to see you used it before you reviewed it :D
Fantastic!
I have never been this thrilled about a multitool. The option to use normal bits is huge. The combination knife is a bit of a let down, but just a bit. I always carry other knives and use my Wave mostely on things I dont want my other blades to experience. I would miss the file. I dont use it much, but I like to know its there...
It’s my daily carry paired with the Micra. The best tool will be the tool you have on your person when you need it the most in unexpected situations. Signal has been a win for me since 2015. 🔥
I bought one! As an ex-boyscout, and wilderness lover, this thing looks pretty amazing.
Fantastic review! You guys are some of the best to have ever done it. I think I’ll be picking one of these up.
The signal is a great piece of gear. I use it all the time as a full time beach camper.
Yes I also have a few other multi tools in my backpack, but I love the signal and probably use it the most.
I normally carry a Leatherman wingman but I've been looking at the signal for about a month or 2 and this has sold me on it. Next chance I get I'm picking one up.
Thank you for making this video, I am working to get my boss to buy our maintenance guys each one of these. This video will definitely sell him.
wow excellent review! I work for Motion Industries and we sell a lot of cutting tools and abrasives to Leatherman Tool Group here in Portland. Great guys over there!
Love the signal, use it constantly at work, in my personal opinion one of the best leatherman's on the market 💪
🤘
I got a broken arm and all your videos have been awesome keeping me entertained. As a knife and tool guy and as a car and construction guy. And as a gambler guy the gambler vid was awesome, keep it up, and would love to see more of you and Ben
This is designed to be use with one hand.
Remember the guy stuck in the rocks that had to cut his arm off?
One handed operation with this tool. It could save your life.
I have been hesitant to purchase the Signal, but after this review, I now realize it’s full potential.
Give it a try. I’ll think you’ll like it.
I bought one for myself. Used it a few weeks and bought a second one for my spouse. In a different color.
He loves it. He has a million tools and several multi tools but I see vine use this one quite a bit. We are full time campers near the beach.
I’ve got a Signal that lives in my Mystery Ranch Rip Ruck 15. The signal is great goes with me on all my adventures whether that be driving, biking or hiking. It’s a fantastic little tool. I’d love a higher end steel for the knife blade, but to be honest I carry an actual pocket knife and I use the blade more on the that, so the blade in the leather man is a great back up. I also keep a super tool 300 in my glove box and a wing master in my camping box.
I think the steel is actually a good fit for the theme of the tool. While the Charge Plus has that fancy S30V stuff, you'd need to bring an equally fancy diamond sharpening stone into the woods to touch the edge up. With the 420HC steel they use on their more pedestrian offerings, you can literally sharpen the stuff on any river rock or random chunk of stone in your path. And what it lacks in edge retention, it more than makes up in toughness. Ease of sharpening and high toughness are essential for a hard use bush knife.
Own and use a multi tool every day. Bought almost every one that has been produced. Gerber legend 800 with a buck case is my go to for YEARS. Warrantee is second to none, spring loaded pliers are brilliant and compliment of tools is excellent. Never like any Leatherman or Buck options much in multi tools, although I love some of their other products. I have carried the Gerber since it as created and never found anything better. Have one on me daily, in my truck, my bag and given a bunch to friends and family. EDIT... My first one that I broke one part of, my fault after YEARS, I gave to a buddy (assuming I got my use out of it, fairly to the company). He sent it back to Gerber and they sent him a new tool!
My fiancée got me this and it's almost as incredible as her!
Amazing piece of gear
My EDC is the Leatherman Surge which has all these "tools" plus the exchangeable saw blade & file mechanism, which is really handy. Now there are the more specialized additions such as the whistle, ferro rod, sharpener, hammer etc, which gives it a few extras to work with, so the Signal is defs in my bug out / camping / hiking bag as an extra multitool where needs be as well. I know people see the Surge as bulky etc, but it's my first multitool and I barely notice it's weight as I got the pocket clip and got it clipped into my front pocket. Signal felt like a knockoff product because it's so lightweight 😅🤣 either way, great video explaining the usefulness of the Signal in survival situations and making it very clear to people who'd like to know more about it as I haven't found any useful videos back when I was on the market for one
Amazing video! Easily some of the best knife/outdoor content on the RUclipss!!!! More please.
I think this is the best review video I’ve ever seen.
Something to note about survival/emergency whistles is how loud and effective they are. In addition to requiring less energy to produce the sound, they actually hit a frequency range that cuts through white noise incredibly well.
If you're lost during a rain or snow storm, your voice will not cut through the environmental noise. The whistle will. It is a loud, piercing, irritating sound designed to attract attention.
When he blew the whistle I thought it sounded rather anemic.
@@michaelmelling9333 Definitely not as loud as a dedicated whistle, but im sure its nice to have in a pinch
@@michaelmelling9333 Even so, try this experiment. On another tab, open a "rain sounds" or some other nature environment sound, and let it play in the background and fidget with the two volumes until it is hard to make out what he is saying with his voice. Then go to 1:30, it is some 10s of him talking before the whistle bit comes. Don't look at the video, just listen in and compare how the whistle is still much clearer. Obviously not apples to apples (it is two recorded and edited audio, he is not shouting), but the point of clarity and not getting mushed with natural sounds still remain the same.
That is the bike that learnt me how to ride. Awesome video as always sir. Thank you.
I got one this past Christmas and its the perfect fit for what I do working in the forest service in maintenance. I used a Supertool 300 for a while and that replaced most of the tools I use (exception of bolt cutters obviously and a set of channel locks). I work in remote areas often by myself and carrying back up just in case fire starting tools is a must especially right now in winter.
I do miss having two separate blades like that of the Supertool 300. I got a lot of use out of the serrated knife blade, it cuts through plastic and zip ties like butter. The Signal blade struggles with that so I may be just pocket my Delica serrated edge knife.
I love the super tool 300 also, it’s got the file! I found the Phillips screwdriver fits into a 1/4 inch socket and the big flathead fits diagonal into a 3/8 drive for light duty usage. Try it out
@@jaredm.7989 Thanks for the tips. I use the Leatherman socket adapter for the Supertool and just use 1/4 bits.
The leatherman can opener is the best can opener. Its the only can opener I use when camping/portaging. The best!
You can also magnetize the bit holder... they sell little magnetizers at Autoparts places for making your screwdrivers magnetic. You pass them through and magically you have a small amount of magnetization. Do it multiple times and it works reasonably well. Nice vid dude. Leatherman needs to hire you... or, their competition...
Might not work on stainless?
@@iverburl never tried it. I'll take one of my wives kitchen knives out to the barn and see. I'll have my sister text back with the results after my funeral.
@@w.c.6678 magnetization varies with different stainless alloy mixes
I just checked my Leatherman Skeletool and the frame is magnetic.
You can always insert a small (cm x 1/2 cm) rare earth magnet into the frame somewhere. Might be handy.
One of the best knife reviews I've ever seen.
Already own this knife but dude did a great job explaining things. Very well done
May get one, too. With a 1/4 drive socket a useful trick is that one can use US impact drill “bits” for light drilling. I’ve made needed holes that way.
One thing I notice about bushcrafters making reviews about the Signal is that it really shows up the good from the bad bushcrafters. For example, you started that fire with one strike but I've seen one fool break his ferro rod AND hack the handle of his Signal right down to the bare metal in the process. He blamed the Signal.
Another one was actually trying to scrape the diamond coating from the sharpener using the main knife blade ( yet another one trying unsuccessfully to prove it was only a cheap gimmick ). So many crazy people out there who'd pick a fight with a lamp - post ! For me, I think it's a beautifully designed piece of kit.
Another great video Zac, I enjoy your multi tool reviews. I have a Leatherman ps4 I carry everyday but I’ve been looking at getting a larger Leatherman, the signal has a lot
Of great features that I didn’t realize before , thank you for your awesome review. Thanks for staying positive.
Looks like a solid peace of gear to go camping or hiking with. Excellent review Zac, thanks!
Just recently started riding. Probably gonna have to get this to throw in my riding bag, thanks Zac!
I think it’s a good survival/mechanical hybrid.
Great dive into this tool. I love mine, fully aware of the oddball bits, but thank you for this video, nice coverage
I carry mine daily. Use it nearly daily. Really love it.
Enduro 125 Yamaha- 1975? What a sweet bike. I like the Leatherman as well- but that bike is something special Zac.
Love the video. I carry a signal camping all the time. there are market parts where you can replace the whistle and sharpener with bit carriers. I use those for regular urban carry when I am not camping.
where do you get the market parts for the signal?
@@AriR6R Look up leatherman signal shapeway
Thumbs up, such great video quality man. Great job, great content. Really high production value.
Noice! Leatherman’s niche tools are pretty sweet.
Love my MUTT!!
I like the skeletool because of how they have that screwdriver set up. Very useful for the stuff i use it for.
Great review! I hard used the signal all summer commercial fishing and building a house. I approve of the tool wholeheartedly!
I use the can opener a lot when traveling abroad also. Life saver in these situations.
People need to be better at picking up and properly disposing of their trash. Love the new videos, the content is great and the editing is in point.
Great vid with real world application both in and out of town!
I've had one for a year and just learned stuff I had no idea it had!! Amazing content delivery as well! Thank you.
Been thinking about replacing the Rebar in my edc with a different model with the knife accessible when the tool is closed. Really appreciate the signal review.
Yessss another video! 💪🏼 Keep’em coming! Couldn’t click fast enough👌🏼💯
That’s the plan! 👊
@@zacinthewild last year I almost bought the signal but after hearing your thoughts on the surge..I bought that instead and it’s in my edc kit..great tool👌🏼
Great vid as always matey. An excellent crash course on multitool usages. Got a couple of mod multitool from dad, replacing the scissors for a laser pointer & adding matches with striker within the handle, just a backup to the ferro rod in the handle. It is almost the best survival apparatus. We do a lot of bikepacking (bicycle) and the modded tool is adequate for our needs. Cheers fro sharing Zac. Cowabunga.!
Laser pointer? On a knife?
I have to ask: What's that about? I'm curious.
My favorite part is the r4pe whistle.
That's what I call a whistle a rape whistle
This was a very well put together, informative video; thank you sir!
I like the backup aspect.
Something if you had at the bottom of a bag in pinch could come in handy
Awesome video, I've owned the signal for years and still leaned a few new things watching this! I had the original black with yellow accents, but when I found out they started making them in different colours I bought the coyote tan, gave the original to my brother (who absolutely loves it) and ordered a custom aqua one online for my wife using leathermans customize option they offer for the signal (which is sexy af) though she is not a big tool person she still likes it a lot and always has it in her bag just because.
Yo Zach! Great vintage Yamaha DT 125! That thing looks pristine. Very nice.
Great review Zac. I'm glad you mentioned the after market options you have if you don't think you'll use the file and whistle. If I bought the Signal that's the route I would go.
It would definitely be nice to have a place for extra bits.
I got the Wave+ for my first Leatherman! I might get this one next. Thanks for the review!
i'm looking for a multitool for hiking and camping. Should i get the wave or signal?
@mrsentencename7334 I absolutely love my wave+ the outdoor features on the Signal can easily be replaced by buying a dedicated Firestarter and whistle which probably will work better. Go for the Wave+ for it's versatility and functionality. I use mine in Wildland Firefighting and it's been very handy at the situations I needed it for. Including cutting zip ties from helicopter buckets, or cutting a fence wire because we needed to supress a grass fire on a farmer field lol.
Leatherman are great been carrying a wave for many years only thing I don’t like is no awl. The signal I hate serrated blades and the can opener is not going out. Why you would say that is not based on common sense. Especially if you travel anywhere out of the country. You can usually find a can anywhere you go and can be used for many things. Like your vids and the old bikes when I was a kid they were new at the time. Brings back memories.