Best all inside opening multitool (e.g. LM core, paladin PT 540) ?

[Raukodur]

There is a lot of interest in the LM core atm in the LM forums, and a while back there was quite a lot of interest in the PT 540 on the SOG forums. As these are both all inside opening multitools, if I was buying one, I would seriously consider whether the other is better suited to my needs.

Now I know the PT540 has a few tools specific for electircal work, but as we know, SOG tools can be switched around, and if I was to buy a PT 540 I would have replaced those tools with ones found standard (e.g. can opener/small screwdriver , bottle opener/medium screwdriver) and maybe not so standard (V cutter, not sure it would fit though) on other multitools, so making the PT 540 not just a speSmurfpillst tool for electricians.

That being said I have to say I would prefer the PT540 over the LM core. You get compound leverage, three wire cutter sizes in the jaws with the special stop lock stuff for stripping wires. You have the ability to relatively easily customize the tool to your needs, and on the handles you have the hex cutouts.

However, I don't own either of these tools, nor have I ever seen them in real life, so I was wondering, how do these compare, which do you think is better?

And of course, what other all inside opening multitools are comparable and maybe better?

Which is the best one and why?

[supratentorial]

 "if I was buying one, I would seriously consider whether the other is better suited to my needs."

The Core and the PT-540 are very different tools.  It would helpful to me if you described your normal usage of multi-tools.  e.g. When do use a multi-tool? What tools do you require for your work?      etc.  Which one is "better" will largely depend on your needs.

[Raukodur]

Unfortunately you have miunderstood my post, I am not after one of these two tools, or after any tool right now, this was a theoretical thread about which all inside opening multitool people consider to be the 'best' and to specifically compare the LM core, and PT 540.

Of course these two are very different tools in their basic construction, but as I said, if the speSmurfpillst tools on the PT 540 are replaced with general ones (such as the can / bottle opener and V cutter), then I do not see how they differ that much, and I would also think the PT 540 has the Core beat on nearly everything.

[supratentorial]

Unfortunately you have miunderstood my post, I am not after one of these two tools, or after any tool right now, this was a theoretical thread about which all inside opening multitool people consider to be the 'best' and to specifically compare the LM core, and PT 540.

Of course these two are very different tools in their basic construction, but as I said, if the speSmurfpillst tools on the PT 540 are replaced with general ones (such as the can / bottle opener and V cutter), then I do not see how they differ that much, and I would also think the PT 540 has the Core beat on nearly everything.

Theoretically, a theoretical question about the theoretical benefit of one multi-tool over another would theoretically need some sort of criteria (purpose, cost, etc) to make a judgment about any theoretical benefit of one over the other.   

In my opinion the two tools are quite different even if the internal tools in the PT-540 are swapped out.  You've mentioned some of these differences.  And the difference in cost is also quite substantial.  I think the most important question that should be considered when purchasing a multi-tool is: How will it help me get the job done.  The job will vary a lot between different people.  Cost is also an important factor (unfortunately).  I would recommend the Core to some and the PT-540 to others.   

[supratentorial]

In my review of the SOG Pocket PowerPlier I have some comparison shots.  Some of the tools on the PPP are also present in the PT-540.





The long, hollow ground drivers on the Core may be a deciding factor for some.  The compound leverage pliers and wire strippers on the PT-540 may be a deciding factor for some.  The lack of a #2 Phillips driver on the PT-540 might be a deal breaker for some.  etc...etc...etc...

[J-sews]

On paper, the PT-540 has more features and appears to be more sophisticated then the Core. (As Def said, aside from being BIG, what else is there to say about the Core?) Nevertheless, as a general purpose heavy duty work tool, I personally would opt for the Core.
Why?

Hand comfort: I don't care for SOG's grip protector flaps. Take them off, and now the advantage goes to the Core with its contoured plastic inserts.

Durability: Me not being a heavy user and abuser, either tool should last a lifetime. No advantage to either.

Pliers: I personally am not as enthralled with SOG's compound leverage principal as others. I have no beef with it, but I also don't see it as a big attraction. No advantage to either.

Drivers: As Supratentorial points out above, the Core's long length hollow ground drivers are a deciding factor. IMO, they are the best of any multitool on the market.

Access: With the grip protector flaps on, blade access on the PT-540 is a clumsy affair. With them off, I consider access to be "average." For me the advantage here goes to the Core, as the blades can always be accessed, even with numb, greasy, fingers. No fingernails required.

Blade locks: Both tools use a similar rocker-switch mechanism. No advantage to either.

Fit & finish: Hands down the SOG wins. But for a working tool, this is not important enough to overshadow the Core's strong points.

[supratentorial]

...I personally am not as enthralled with SOG's compound leverage principal as others...

Uh...oh...J-sews has joined the dark side.