ST300 Vs. Original Super Tool?

[cody6268]

After seeing one in Tractor Supply the other day, I've kind of wondered how much better the new Super Tool is versus the original.  I've put my used Original Super Tool through just about everything in the couple of months I've had it, and it's proved to perhaps be the best multitool I've owned for heavy-duty work. 

What I like about the newer version:   Better Locking Mechanism, replaceable wire cutters, and blunted serrated blade.

What I like about the older version:   Better build quality, and I got it for a bargain--in like new condition, but only $20!

The several things I have going against the newer version are: It's about $50 more than I paid for the almost new (but used) Original Super Tool I currently have (which really isn't a complaint, as I bet the original one new was close to the same price!), I've heard the build quality isn't as good on modern Leathermans as it is on the older ones as the used PST II and Super Tool I currently own.

The only thing I have against the older one is that the locking mechanism is kind of annoying--having to open a razor sharp blade to unlock a screwdriver can be a bit dangerous at times!

So, should I consider eventually getting the Super Tool 300?

[SteveC]

Get yourself a Supertool 200 they can be had for a good price in new condition on E-bay. Easier to unlock than the OG, nice sheepsfoot serrated balde same quality as the original, the only thing lacking is the replaceable cutters of the new one.

[AimlessWanderer]

I've never owned the original, or a 200 so I only have ownership experience of the ST300 and Core. From a manufacturing perspective, the newer Leatherman tools don't feel like they have the same integrity as the older versions, but they are certainly still up for a working life.

The locks are certainly better on the newer versions, and much quicker and simpler to operate. The replacable wire cutters also alleviate fears of damaging the cutters with harder wire. I personally don't like the plier head though. I'm more likely to need the main gripping area on a set of pliers rather than the wire cutters, and that's where these pliers fall flat. The cutters impede on the main gripping area, significantly reducing effective contact on some workpieces.

Another thing to watch is the handle splay. I can't remember what it's like on the originals I've handled previously, but the handles sit quite wide on the newer ones. Try before you buy if possible, and get a feel for how the handles sit with the pliers opened to the extent you'd normally use them. For me it's an issue on these models particularly when using the main gripping area, but for other people and their chores, not so much. For someone with larger hands gripping small items or cutting thin wire, the handle splay may actually be a benefit for them. That aspect is really quite subjective.

As to internal tools, there's the inboard vs outboard aspect on knives and saw, again this is specific whether this is an issue for you, but both new and old are the same. The integrity if the tools should be up to most jobs you would use a multitool for barring any casting defects, but they tend to make themselves known quite early in the tool's life thankfully. However, surface finish not being polished will increase chances of corrosion in a wet or humid environment.

Hopefully there's some "clues" in there as to whether the ST300 is suitable for you. If still in doubt, buy it, try it, and sell it if you don't like it 

[sysbox27]

Hi Cody,

20 USD for a like new original Super Tool!  Wow, what's not to like!
Let me know if you can find similar deal for me. 

I'd say enjoy the original for a while longer, but then what kind of advice would that be from a fellow member? 
The upside is that it seems you can acquire a ST300 reasonably in the US, unlike here in the UK.
So go for it if you can afford to and let the rest of us know your thoughts on how they compare for you.

Kind regards,
G.

[SteveC]

Cody , don't be shy   

[cody6268]

I'll stick with the original one for now.  It's doing the job just fine.   I'm still narrowing down which modern, new Leatherman I plan to buy eventually.  So far, I've got it down to Rebar, Wave, and Super Tool 300. I've also considered the OHT and the new Signal (which has the right tool set, just not the right price).

[symphonyincminor]

I'd stick with the original, too. I don't like the 'locking' mechanism on them, but if you're already used to it, then you shouldn't have any problems. I see no real advantages of the 300 over the original, other than the locking mechanism. You practically stole it at $20. Quite a bargain for a simple tool that will last you a lifetime. Plus, you can pick up a 300 at any time - I don't see them being discontinued for quite a while.

There's also something intangible about the old-school Leatherman's. Maybe it's the build quality compared to newer tools.....