Let's give the LM Kick a little love.

ducktapehero · **on:** April 05, 2010, 04:03:09 AM

As some of you guys know I'm a HUGE Vic Spirit fan. To me it's almost more of a work of art than a multi-tool. But I have to admit I also have a soft spot for the humble LM Kick.

I've been EDC'ing it lately and it's great. I'm always worried about losing or breaking my engraved Spirit but with my Kick I can just abuse the hell out of it and not worry at all. The new Super Tool, the Wave, the Surge and the Skeletool are also great tools but they are all pretty pricey compared to the Kick.

Yes, it's an old fashioned style that you have to open the handles to get the tools out but it does have full size strong tools. And since the blade doesn't lock it can be carried almost worldwide. But with the handles closed properly the blade still won't close on your fingers. And the blade is small enough it's not gonna freak anyone out if you pull it out.

Another great thing I like about it is that I can pocket carry it. Most "full size" multi-tools are too big and/or heavy to pocket carry but the Kick is not. I occasionally pocket carry the Spirit but it's a tad heavy. The Kick is about the heaviest I like to carry. But despite this it features full size tools and pliers. Most other pocket sized MT's do not have the full size tools.

I don't know why I wrote this. I went camping this weekend and the Kick handled everything I threw at it and it's still hair shaving sharp. I think a lot of this little tool. I think that sometimes it gets forgotten compared to Leatherman's flashier and/or more modern styled tools.

It's the perfect tool for a young kid just getting into multi-tools. It's also a great tool for the adventurous traveler. It's lightweight and it's non locking blades mean that you won't have to hide in certain places. Yeah it's a bit old fashioned but it's still a very inexpensive very capable minimalist multi-tool.

Any other people here who think that the Kick deserves more credit than it gets?

sawman · **Reply #1 on:** April 05, 2010, 04:08:55 AM

The Kick is a wonderful tool, but a little lacking in implements, compared to many others.

BigFatTon · **Reply #2 on:** April 05, 2010, 05:56:47 AM

The Kick was the first leatherman I ever owned, and it served me wonderfully for years. I eventually wanted more implements though, so I got a supertool 300, but the Kick is a great tool, and very affordable.

Sea Monster · **Reply #3 on:** April 05, 2010, 06:23:20 AM

I like the kick, it has all the quality of other leatherman tools, and performs its tasks admirably,

but I do find it a little underpowered.

I don't see myself as one of those people with "Must haves" on my Multis, but with the Kick I still feel I'm missing something - maybe scissors, maybe a file, maybe a saw, maybe an Awl.

I feel the older PSTs (Regular & II) managed to pack more punch.

andre0407 · **Reply #4 on:** April 05, 2010, 06:48:06 AM

Quote from: Sea Monster on April 05, 2010, 06:23:20 AM

I like the kick, it has all the quality of other leatherman tools, and performs its tasks admirably,

but I do find it a little underpowered.

I don't see myself as one of those people with "Must haves" on my Multis, but with the Kick I still feel I'm missing something - maybe scissors, maybe a file, maybe a saw, maybe an Awl.

I feel the older PSTs (Regular & II) managed to pack more punch.

Yes, may be a little underpowered, but I find that it performs my day to day tasks admirably- may be because I don't live in an environment that I need to do too extensive repairs or saw through too many branches. I don't own one, but I've borrowed a friend's, and I find myself missing it. Just my HO.

Zed · **Reply #5 on:** April 05, 2010, 09:04:04 AM

I did like my kick, but i prefer the pst as a edc, and once i get the pst2 i feel this will be spot on for me, the kick is a good tool though ,its light and fitted with a clip is spot on, but for me my edc MT choice is effected by stupid uk laws,

paul

valvestem125 · **Reply #6 on:** April 05, 2010, 04:10:48 PM

I think the Kick is a good basic no frill multi-tool, reminiscent of the PST. I used my the other day at work and said to myself, Hey this is pretty good little tool, I like it. I don't care for the plastic liners, but it is what it is.

Gareth · **Reply #7 on:** April 05, 2010, 04:38:44 PM

I really like the Kick. Yes it hasn't got lots of tools, but remember if it had more then it would only up the price and that's not the idea surely, it has to be the cheapest way to get a full sized set of good MT pliers.
I've said it before elsewhere but I would like to see LM making more use of the components they have and offering more alternative tool load outs, much like they do with the Fuse/Knifeless Fuse. Then you could buy a LM Kick with added scissors/saw/file etc.

JohnD · **Reply #8 on:** April 05, 2010, 06:15:13 PM

I love my Kick, carry it when in dress pants/ or when I know I don't need locking blades, saws or files.

I always have a classic or some type of tool with scissors on my keys so I'm covered there. And usually have a full sized SAK aswell.

Charger · **Reply #9 on:** April 05, 2010, 07:32:16 PM

my dad had a kick (gave it to his dad eventually). Obviously it didn't measure up to my charge in terms of feel and load out, and the pliers weren't as smooth to use (pivot on charge is just perfect, but the kick didn't open by gravity well).

love:But it was a very capable tool, and I cleared some barbed wire out of some trees with it VERY well. :love

I HATE the look of finger cutouts in knives and multis, and if it hadn't had those, I probably would have bought it off him. I like the look of the classic leatherman design, and the cutouts just kill it for me. same reason I stay away from the other members of the Zytel family, except the Core which I believe has proper handles.

A good starter, but really not any use in an area where a fuse can be purchased for a bit more, giving us scissors, locks, and i think another tool...
For those who cant have locking tools, I suppose a kick would have to do.

There, i gave SOME love, but IMO the best thing about it is that you get a micra with it in most places around here.

Shane769 · **Reply #10 on:** April 05, 2010, 09:13:59 PM

I like the idea of the Kick, haven't had a chance to play with one though. And I agree with Gareth, about they should offer different tool load-outs. But you can always mod one like him, and make a gorgeous Kick

Zed · **Reply #11 on:** April 05, 2010, 09:31:52 PM

Quote from: Charger on April 05, 2010, 07:32:16 PM

my dad had a kick (gave it to his dad eventually). Obviously it didn't measure up to my charge in terms of feel and load out, and the pliers weren't as smooth to use (pivot on charge is just perfect, but the kick didn't open by gravity well).

love:But it was a very capable tool, and I cleared some barbed wire out of some trees with it VERY well. :love

I HATE the look of finger cutouts in knives and multis, and if it hadn't had those, I probably would have bought it off him. I like the look of the classic leatherman design, and the cutouts just kill it for me. same reason I stay away from the other members of the Zytel family, except the Core which I believe has proper handles.

A good starter, but really not any use in an area where a fuse can be purchased for a bit more, giving us scissors, locks, and i think another tool...
For those who cant have locking tools, I suppose a kick would have to do.

There, i gave SOME love, but IMO the best thing about it is that you get a micra with it in most places around here.

yeah the core has folded metal and the zytel is inside and acts like a washer

ducktapehero · **Reply #12 on:** April 05, 2010, 09:54:08 PM

I don't really like the looks of the Zytel handles all too much but as for my experiences I haven't had any problem with them. It does make it more comfortable to use hard than the PST. And as has been said about the scissors, I'm one of those guys who has ALWAYS had a Classic or some other small SAK that has scissors so I'm covered there. The file is a non-issue with me as it's just something that I don't use very much but I can see how other people would need it. And I did modify my Kick a little by filing down one of the flatheads into an pointy wannabe awl.

Yeah it lacks some implements but if you don't NEED them it's not an issue. The implements it does has cover 99% of what I need. Yeah scissors are nice but if you have a sharp knife you don't NEED them. The "more endowed" tools are nice but they also are by necessity bigger and heavier. Not good if you don't want to wear a sheath, as I don't like to do.

It would be nice if LM and Victorinox would make it possible to easily Mod their tools though. A Kick with a saw would be perfect. I don't really need a saw but it's nice to fondle one while I'm watching Survivorman. LOL

Sparkey · **Reply #13 on:** April 07, 2010, 07:40:27 AM

I've carried a kick for almost 3 years and it's done great. I also have a super tool and IMO the kick has better plier heads and larger wire cutters. I also dig the fact that the screwdriver is redesigned as well. I still use the super tool for larger jobs, but for day to day stuff the kick does fine. As far as price to performance ratio, it does pretty well.

Mercury · **Reply #14 on:** April 08, 2010, 05:56:12 AM

I've never had a kick because I live in an area where locking blades are ok. I carry a Blast to work and it performs admirably. The only other full size multi that I liked better was the spirit, but needlenose pliers are really a necessity for me, and that is one area where LM outshines Vic. (maybe the only area!) I would love to have a kick for Dress pants, and I truly think it is a wonderful tool for what it is.

ecfiffer · **Reply #15 on:** April 08, 2010, 11:05:38 PM

i enjoyed mine while i had it. went to trade with GG and the friggin mail ate it... now some clown has it....

might have to get another used one though

seagullplayer · **Reply #16 on:** July 15, 2010, 03:26:20 PM

I'm in the kick club.

Just picked mine up today, reminds me of the first leathermans I saw years ago.
I think it will be a friend for a long time.

I never really found much use for a file or saw or scissors in my multi tool, some do I guess...

Mercury · **Reply #17 on:** July 15, 2010, 03:45:13 PM

The kick is a good tool for light duty. I carry mine at work and I can't even tell it's there until I need it.

zepla · **Reply #18 on:** July 15, 2010, 03:47:57 PM

I do not have a kick and do not want it. That is for the same reason as that I do not agree with something DTH mentioned in the first post.

It does not have locking tools. I know there are laws in some places and all, but my advice is never give a kid a non-locking knife or what ever non-locking implement as DTH mentioned. It is an accidant waiting to happen. I have experienced the results of a non-locking blade on a SAK. It was messy....

But that's just me....

No offence DTH

seagullplayer · **Reply #19 on:** July 15, 2010, 04:30:33 PM

Quote from: zepla on July 15, 2010, 03:47:57 PM

I do not have a kick and do not want it. That is for the same reason as that I do not agree with something DTH mentioned in the first post.

It does not have locking tools. I know there are laws in some places and all, but my advice is never give a kid a non-locking knife or what ever non-locking implement as DTH mentioned. It is an accidant waiting to happen. I have experienced the results of a non-locking blade on a SAK. It was messy....

But that's just me....

No offence DTH

And don't let them play with your chain saws either.

Gareth · **Reply #20 on:** July 15, 2010, 06:43:24 PM

Quote from: zepla on July 15, 2010, 03:47:57 PM

I do not have a kick and do not want it. That is for the same reason as that I do not agree with something DTH mentioned in the first post.

It does not have locking tools. I know there are laws in some places and all, but my advice is never give a kid a non-locking knife or what ever non-locking implement as DTH mentioned. It is an accidant waiting to happen. I have experienced the results of a non-locking blade on a SAK. It was messy....

But that's just me....

No offence DTH

I'm going to side with DTH on this one. While of course you are right in that the tools don't lock, they are pretty solid. The tension put on them by the 'spring', combined with the off-set tools, means that you need a lot of lateral force to make them fold away while they are in use. Also keep in mind that the tools can't fold closed on your fingers as the other handle will be in the way, same obviously goes for the blade.

Yes, you have to take a touch more care in using non-locking blades etc, but TBH I don't use my locking knives any differently. I carry and use a non-locking knife very nearly every day of my life, and have done since I was 8, and I can only remember one time I've had one close back at my fingers. I was drunk, I was being silly, and it was a cheap rotten knife.

zepla · **Reply #21 on:** July 15, 2010, 07:59:45 PM

You are right, obviously, about all you have said. And I do not have much experience with the Kick, I have to say. But, there is alway a but

, eventho the implements cannot fold entirely in the tool as you absolutly right mentioned, I have some bad experience with non-locking implements.

For example, a phillipshead that was stuck, I put some extra force on it, and then some more and ended up with my entire body weight (not much but enough

) pushing down on it. I moved my body somehow a bit and the driver folded and my knuckels busted open on the next screw. Hurt like hell!

Example two, a kid showing of his SAK to his friend opening and closing it a thousend times. You know how that goes and then, wham! And to be honest, that kid was not me, but I did experienced the same not so long ago, eventho I am in my thrities

So just to be on the safe side, locking everything for me. Except for my Squirt, but that's because that little thing is just so adorable

And to small to apply much force on.

Sorry DTH, if this is taking over to much your thread

Pacu · **Reply #22 on:** July 16, 2010, 01:44:59 AM

I gave my kick to my brother in law last christmas..he seems to like it alot.

I carry a Blast every now and then. Some don't like the zytel handles but they seem solid enough and comfortable so plus in my book. I could see ifin ya throw a clip on a kick it would be a hands down edc multi.

Singh · **Reply #23 on:** July 17, 2010, 05:12:49 AM

You can't beat it for $20...

wait, you can beat it for $20. Beat the hell out of it!.

Grateful · **Reply #24 on:** July 17, 2010, 01:26:47 PM

I like my Kick alot. Easy to carry, comfortable to use and paired with my sak does all that I need. I could carry my Surge which has all the tools that the Kick and sak have. But, I like having the pair because I sometimes need pliars and a screwdriver at the same time.
Jim

ACHË · **Reply #25 on:** July 18, 2010, 12:49:20 AM

Quote from: zepla on July 15, 2010, 03:47:57 PM

I do not have a kick and do not want it. That is for the same reason as that I do not agree with something DTH mentioned in the first post.

It does not have locking tools. I know there are laws in some places and all, but my advice is never give a kid a non-locking knife or what ever non-locking implement as DTH mentioned. It is an accidant waiting to happen. I have experienced the results of a non-locking blade on a SAK. It was messy....

But that's just me....

No offence DTH

Quote from: Gareth on July 15, 2010, 06:43:24 PM

Quote from: zepla on July 15, 2010, 03:47:57 PM
I do not have a kick and do not want it. That is for the same reason as that I do not agree with something DTH mentioned in the first post.

It does not have locking tools. I know there are laws in some places and all, but my advice is never give a kid a non-locking knife or what ever non-locking implement as DTH mentioned. It is an accidant waiting to happen. I have experienced the results of a non-locking blade on a SAK. It was messy....

But that's just me....

No offence DTH

I'm going to side with DTH on this one. While of course you are right in that the tools don't lock, they are pretty solid. The tension put on them by the 'spring', combined with the off-set tools, means that you need a lot of lateral force to make them fold away while they are in use. Also keep in mind that the tools can't fold closed on your fingers as the other handle will be in the way, same obviously goes for the blade.

Yes, you have to take a touch more care in using non-locking blades etc, but TBH I don't use my locking knives any differently. I carry and use a non-locking knife very nearly every day of my life, and have done since I was 8, and I can only remember one time I've had one close back at my fingers. I was drunk, I was being silly, and it was a cheap rotten knife.

Me three.

Nothing wrong with liking it tho.

The thin profile of the tool, the price and the pocket clip make this an attractive tool... But the non locking feature is a deal breaker for me...

5.2oz - Kick

6.0oz - Fuse

Plus for less than an ounce more I get locking implements and scissors.

It's too bad they dont include the pocket clip on all the Kicks bigger brothers.

Mercury · **Reply #26 on:** July 18, 2010, 07:01:02 AM

Quote from: ACHË on July 18, 2010, 12:49:20 AM

Quote from: zepla on July 15, 2010, 03:47:57 PM
I do not have a kick and do not want it. That is for the same reason as that I do not agree with something DTH mentioned in the first post.

It does not have locking tools. I know there are laws in some places and all, but my advice is never give a kid a non-locking knife or what ever non-locking implement as DTH mentioned. It is an accidant waiting to happen. I have experienced the results of a non-locking blade on a SAK. It was messy....

But that's just me....

No offence DTH
Quote from: Gareth on July 15, 2010, 06:43:24 PM
Quote from: zepla on July 15, 2010, 03:47:57 PM
I do not have a kick and do not want it. That is for the same reason as that I do not agree with something DTH mentioned in the first post.

It does not have locking tools. I know there are laws in some places and all, but my advice is never give a kid a non-locking knife or what ever non-locking implement as DTH mentioned. It is an accidant waiting to happen. I have experienced the results of a non-locking blade on a SAK. It was messy....

But that's just me....

No offence DTH

I'm going to side with DTH on this one. While of course you are right in that the tools don't lock, they are pretty solid. The tension put on them by the 'spring', combined with the off-set tools, means that you need a lot of lateral force to make them fold away while they are in use. Also keep in mind that the tools can't fold closed on your fingers as the other handle will be in the way, same obviously goes for the blade.

Yes, you have to take a touch more care in using non-locking blades etc, but TBH I don't use my locking knives any differently. I carry and use a non-locking knife very nearly every day of my life, and have done since I was 8, and I can only remember one time I've had one close back at my fingers. I was drunk, I was being silly, and it was a cheap rotten knife.

Me three.

Nothing wrong with liking it tho.

The thin profile of the tool, the price and the pocket clip make this an attractive tool... But the non locking feature is a deal breaker for me...

5.2oz - Kick

6.0oz - Fuse

Plus for less than an ounce more I get locking implements and scissors.

It's too bad they dont include the pocket clip on all the Kicks bigger brothers.

Exactly. I want a fuse badly, and I will get one, but if I had a clip I never would have bought my kick. The blast is too thick for my work EDC, but the fuse would fit nicely. Even in a sheath.

seagullplayer · **Reply #27 on:** July 27, 2010, 03:00:57 PM

I would like a clip with mine, can you just add that?

Styerman · **Reply #28 on:** July 27, 2010, 04:38:46 PM

When asked for multi advice , I mention three models , the Wave , the Vic. Spirit , and the Kick . Won't go wrong with any one of them . Great gateway drug !

Chris

Craig · **Reply #29 on:** July 27, 2010, 06:22:59 PM

Quote from: seagullplayer on July 27, 2010, 03:00:57 PM

I would like a clip with mine, can you just add that?

Yep

http://www.leatherman.com/accessories/product/Kick_Removable_Pocket_Clip

Hello Lurker! Remove this ad and much more by logging in.

Let's give the LM Kick a little love.

Donations

Community Links