Bit extension or Universal Tool Adapter

[cadjak]

I am trying to maximize the general usefulness of my MultiTools. I own a Surge and a couple of Victorinox SwissTools (RS and Spirit X). I am asking for opinion here as to which accessory would you choose, the LM bit extender or the LM Universal Tool Adapter. What are the pros and cons of each, as you see it. My most carried tool is the Surge.  Thanks.

[Nikos]

I've owned (or still own) many bit kits, from the older Gerber bit kit to the UTA by LM and the Vic ratchet thingummy. It turned out that none of them was quite what I was after. For example, Vic and Gerber-style kits use normal (hex) bits which adds to the kit's size. I don't quite trust the LM bit drivers built into their tools as they seem easy to overtorque (plus there are some stories of broken springs etc. around here) and a bit extender would only aggravate this, etc. After much trial and error, I've ended up carrying a LM bit card, along with either a Vic ratchet and LM bit exnteder or a Vic L-shaped bit driver. They give me the low profile and lots-of-different-bits pros of the LM system, the ability to use the bits independently of my MT, the long reach and ability to use normal 1/4'' bits, all in a lightweight and easy to carry kit.

Just my $0.02.

[Mike]

I just traded Swiss Man (great guy btw) for a LM Wave. I like the tool, but the stubby bits has always been of concern to me. So I pondered exactly what would suit me the best. I wound up getting the Bit Extension and two double ended bits which are 2 inches long. One has a #2 Phillips with a flat driver, and the other one has a #1 and #2 Robertson (square) bit.

The Bit Extension fits in the nylon sheath in the elastic pocket next to the Wave and the bits fit in the front pocket with room for one more.They would be used for fasteners that are not to terribly tight, but need some reach to get to and allow me to use standard 1/4" bits. It's a pretty small overall package, which I really like.

I don't plan on using the bits much as I am usually pretty close to regular tools. But, there are instances where it will save me a walk to my toolbox.

*Note: Short 1/4" drive bits sink into the Bit Extension making them a pain to remove, so it's easier to use double ended.

Mike

[Mike 56]

I can say without a doubt buy both. If you are anything like me i am a accessory nut plus if you get enough of them you mix and match and come up with your own set up. If you have a vice and a file you can make your own extension from a hardwere store 1/4 bit holder.

Mike

[cadjak]

I am on the road at the moment, visiting family. I arrived yesterday to be met with a "I need a light switch installed" request.  My tool box was buried in the cargo box on top of my van. This was the first time that I've used my recent Surge (long story) and I managed to use both screwdrivers, phillips and slot, the wire strippers and the serrated edge blade. I didn't need additional bits, but a little more reach would have been handy.  I think that I'll start with getting a bit extension and a selection of 1/4" bits. If I need more torque or an angle holder, I should find out in short order. I can always go for the UTA then.

Mike thanks for the heads up on using the double ended bits.

Mike56 are there any online descriptions for making my own bit extension?

[Mike]

Basically you take one of these and file or grind the end to fit into the Leatherman flat bit adapter:


Now, if you can do that you could also get a couple of longer phillips, square, torx, flat long bits and grind them down as well. Basically skipping the extension. though grinding down just the magnetic extension is less time consuming. Also, the magnetic bit extension will use the shorter bits just fine without needing the longer double ended ones.

For me, I just got the Leatherman Bit Extension and some bits. Was easier for me to go this route.

Mike

[Mike 56]

I found this MT.ORG link http://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,10265.0.html You can buy all three of these 1/4 bit kits in the pic for around 6.00 at Walmart. The small 4 way screwdriver is 2.25 also at Walmart it has nothing to do with this post but it is a good deal on a great little screwdriver.
Mike