Leatherman Free P2/P4 Club and Feedback Thread

[AimlessWanderer]

maybe the metal shaving will clean off easy.

I reckon it will, Nate.  While the magnets may attract stuff, opening up all the tools and cleaning it out, does look to be quite straightforward.

[ducttapetech]

I reckon it will, Nate.  While the magnets may attract stuff, opening up all the tools and cleaning it out, does look to be quite straightforward.

That is what I am thinking.

Anybody modded theirs yet? 

[McStitchy]

First thing I would do is re-shaping the awl's tip, like I did on my Spirit. I like it poky 

... pics show before & after...

[ReamerPunch]

 
It doesn't seem hard to reprofile the P4 awl screwdriver tip into a real awl tip.
There was a nice photo of a Surge reamer and P4 awl somewhere but I can't find it now. But it should not be much of a problem.

Not sure why the awl has a screwdriver tip, though. But the quarter-circle can opener doesn't? 

[gerleatherberman]

Great awl shape, Matt!

The P series awl looks like a good candidate for sharpening the tip. The driver tip on the file would likely be small enough for most flat drive screws.

AW,
Good point on the ease of clean. I got some steel wool dust on the retainer magnet housing, inside the tool, earlier today and was able to clean it off with packing tape. Duct tape would work as well I think.


Good thing is the tool isn't as complicated as it would appear. The magnetic systems appear to be removeable and replaceable if any issues arise. The retainer case comes out with the lock spring and pivot. The pliers closure casing slips out when the pivot is removed. I haven't tried loosening the pivot yet to take it apart, but will do so at some point and take photos.

[McStitchy]

Great awl shape, Matt!

The P series awl looks like a good candidate for sharpening the tip. The driver tip on the file would likely be small enough for most flat drive screws.

AW,
Good point on the ease of clean. I got some steel wool dust on the retainer magnet housing, inside the tool, earlier today and was able to clean it off with packing tape. Duct tape would work as well I think.


Good thing is the tool isn't as complicated as it would appear. The magnetic systems appear to be removeable and replaceable if any issues arise. The retainer case comes out with the lock spring and pivot. The pliers closure casing slips out when the pivot is removed. I haven't tried loosening the pivot yet to take it apart, but will do so at some point and take photos.

Thanks   

And good idea using take to remove the steel wool dust 

Looking forward to the pivot details 

[ZapWizard]

Howdy folks,

I received my Free P4.

I took a ton of photos comparing the tool to the Charge, as well as took it apart.
Here is a link to the exploded view.

Here is the gallery of images.




My biggest gripes are the small file and lack of bit-driver. I am planning a few mods, and I am currently working on a detailed 3D model of the Free P4. I will use this to design a custom fit holster. I do think it is overpriced, but I really like the magnetic opening/closing. I hate needing two hands and finger nails to use my Charge. The P4 will probably become my EDC tool because it is also slimmer than the Charge TTI.


----------------------

Magnets:

The magnets are 0.251"x0.511"x0.640" (6.37mmx13mmx1.60mm)

The magnets themselves are quite strong for their size. They seem to be high quality. They had small plastic guard, presumably to prevent the magnets from smacking into each other, which is great as Neodymium magnets aren't actually solid silvery metal as many think, they usually compressed powder which is nickel plated, and can break open.

On the inside of the tool the magnets make contact with the flat surface on each of the tools while folded. The magnets will probably pull away any metal shaving from getting into the hinges, but then any build up will collect on this mating surface. The good news is it is exposed enough with the tools deployed that you can probably get in and clean the magnet surface with a stronger magnet.

The magnets are secured by the thin metal springs in the tool. The little plastic bit doesn't do anything to hold them in place. I bet the plastic just makes it easier to clean off dust.

They can be replaced by require taking apart the whole tool.
Possible replacement magnet for future reference, and N52 model

----------------------

Modifying the tool:
The tool is just a stack-up of parts around chicago screws, you can probably take the tool apart and re-arrange the tools if you want. The screws have strong lock-tite on the threads.
The small screws and lanyard/belt clip screws are #2-56, the larger screws are #6-40.

[Buzzbait]

Howdy folks,

I received my Free P4.

I took a ton of photos comparing the tool to the Charge, as well as took it apart.
Here is a link to the exploded view.

Here is the gallery of images.




My biggest gripes are the small file and lack of bit-driver. I am planning a few mods, and I am currently working on a detailed 3D model of the Free P4. I will use this to design a custom fit holster. I do think it is overpriced, but I really like the magnetic opening/closing. I hate needing two hands and finger nails to use my Charge. The P4 will probably become my EDC tool because it is also slimmer than the Charge TTI.


----------------------

Magnets:

The magnets are 0.251"x0.511"x0.640" (6.37mmx13mmx1.60mm)

The magnets themselves are quite strong for their size. They seem to be high quality. They had small plastic guard, presumably to prevent the magnets from smacking into each other, which is great as Neodymium magnets aren't actually solid silvery metal as many think, they usually compressed powder which is nickel plated, and can break open.

On the inside of the tool the magnets make contact with the flat surface on each of the tools while folded. The magnets will probably pull away any metal shaving from getting into the hinges, but then any build up will collect on this mating surface. The good news is it is exposed enough with the tools deployed that you can probably get in and clean the magnet surface with a stronger magnet.

The magnets are secured by the thin metal springs in the tool. The little plastic bit doesn't do anything to hold them in place. I bet the plastic just makes it easier to clean off dust.

They can be replaced by require taking apart the whole tool.
Possible replacement magnet for future reference, and N52 model

----------------------

Modifying the tool:
The tool is just a stack-up of parts around chicago screws, you can probably take the tool apart and re-arrange the tools if you want. The screws have strong lock-tite on the threads.
The small screws and lanyard/belt clip screws are #2-56, the larger screws are #6-40.

Bravo!!!  Well done.It looks like the elastomer bushings could pretty easily be DIY replaced, if necessary.

[SteveC]

Well done Zap and welcome to the forum !   



I'm going to put this here just cause it's cool 

[gregpost]

Very informative post Joshua, thanks.

[McStitchy]

Howdy folks,

I received my Free P4.

I took a ton of photos comparing the tool to the Charge, as well as took it apart.
Here is a link to the exploded view.

Here is the gallery of images.




My biggest gripes are the small file and lack of bit-driver. I am planning a few mods, and I am currently working on a detailed 3D model of the Free P4. I will use this to design a custom fit holster. I do think it is overpriced, but I really like the magnetic opening/closing. I hate needing two hands and finger nails to use my Charge. The P4 will probably become my EDC tool because it is also slimmer than the Charge TTI.


----------------------

Magnets:

The magnets are 0.251"x0.511"x0.640" (6.37mmx13mmx1.60mm)

The magnets themselves are quite strong for their size. They seem to be high quality. They had small plastic guard, presumably to prevent the magnets from smacking into each other, which is great as Neodymium magnets aren't actually solid silvery metal as many think, they usually compressed powder which is nickel plated, and can break open.

On the inside of the tool the magnets make contact with the flat surface on each of the tools while folded. The magnets will probably pull away any metal shaving from getting into the hinges, but then any build up will collect on this mating surface. The good news is it is exposed enough with the tools deployed that you can probably get in and clean the magnet surface with a stronger magnet.

The magnets are secured by the thin metal springs in the tool. The little plastic bit doesn't do anything to hold them in place. I bet the plastic just makes it easier to clean off dust.

They can be replaced by require taking apart the whole tool.
Possible replacement magnet for future reference, and N52 model

----------------------

Modifying the tool:
The tool is just a stack-up of parts around chicago screws, you can probably take the tool apart and re-arrange the tools if you want. The screws have strong lock-tite on the threads.
The small screws and lanyard/belt clip screws are #2-56, the larger screws are #6-40.

Wow... excellent info. Thank you very much ZapWizard 

And welcome to 

[Syncop8r]

So much quoting. 

[Syncop8r]

Why do they insist on two blades? Ditch the serrated, and have a proper file.

The serrated blade is the most-used implement on my Surge. 

[ZapWizard]

.It looks like the elastomer bushings could pretty easily be DIY replaced, if necessary.

They look to be simply cut from cord stock. You probably could cut up an o-ring in a pinch if needed.

I'm going to put this here just cause it's cool 

I look forward to seeing what Leatherman does with the Free series in the future. Regardless of the magnet, the new lock/folding mechanism is far improved. You can see that every implement has the same shape. Modding should be easier also as the parts just stacked up with Chicago screws and washers. No need to have the perfect torque on the assembly screws.

[algernonramone]

I just got my P4 yesterday, and I don't have a lot to add except that I really like it so far, and I think Leatherman really has a winner on their hands.

[gerleatherberman]

I just got my P4 yesterday, and I don't have a lot to add except that I really like it so far, and I think Leatherman really has a winner on their hands.

Thanks for posting that!




Y'all,

Looks like the elastomer cushions would be an easy fix of needed. 

Thank you, Zapwizard, for the work, post and pics! I feel even more comfortable with my purchase now, knowing the elastomer things aren't even bushings, but more like cushions. Splendid.

[McStitchy]

So much quoting. 

 

[AimlessWanderer]

Modifying the tool:
The tool is just a stack-up of parts around chicago screws, you can probably take the tool apart and re-arrange the tools if you want. The screws have strong lock-tite on the threads.
The small screws and lanyard/belt clip screws are #2-56, the larger screws are #6-40.

Thanks for the insights, Zap 

Can I test your brain on one thing, please? What would be stopping someone buying a P4, and removing the knife layer to make it bladeless, if they lived/worked somewhere where a knifeless tool would be advantageous? I can't see anything beyond needing to shorten the screws a little, except maybe the lock release

[gerleatherberman]

Maybe just pop a washer in the knife slot, so the tool could be reverted for resale later on?

[gerleatherberman]

As promised. The comparison photos. Free P4, Spirit, and Wave+.

Yes, I painted the part of the Wave file that shows when closed. Think making lists is OCD? hehe 

Any questions, just let me know. 

Scissors:


Big flat drivers. The P series big-flat doubles as a package opener/pry bar. The Spirit big-flat double as a pry bar/wire bender. Wave is a just a big flat and can be used for medium MT prying duties like opening rusty paint cans.


Side view of steel stock used and profile.


P series small flat doubles as an awl/sewing thingy. The Spirit has a small-ish dedicated flat-driver and actual pointy awl without sewing eye. Wave has reversible micro-phillips and flat-driver exchanger, but no awl to speak of.


Phillips drivers profile shot. The Spirit and P series phillips are similar in profile, but the P phillips would be better for #2 phillips and possible larger screw heads. Of course the Wave has the awesome bit exchanger, which includes from the factory a #2 phillips/medium flat combo bit.


Can openers. P series went with a semi-circle for the new line. No extra use for the can opener on the P series. The Spirit has a medium-ish flat driver on the tip. The Wave can opener has a nice wire stripper integrated.


Serrated blades. I used my butter-blade Spirit version for the shot.


Plain edge blades. I used my regular blade Spirit version for this shot.


Wood Saws. All tapered and sharp as smurf. The P4 saw is thick and stout feeling. The Spirit saw is thin and would jam less easily, but be a little weaker. The Wave saw is in between the two.


FILES. O.k. Wave and Spirit win this one HANDS DOWN. I won't go into too much detail, but all of them are nicely cut/made(with the Spirit and Free files being precision cut). The P2/P4 file is very short with a cross-cut side and single-cut side. The Spirit has a cross-cut on each side with very slightly different aggressiveness(nearly redundant). Wave has a cross-cut side and diamond-coated side(diamond coated is very nice for fine finishing file-work.



Combo tools. The previously pictured P series flat driver is also a package opener. The Spirit has a tool dedicated to being a chiselly-thingie and wire-stripper. Spirit wins this one hands-down. Wish LM had done more of the circle grinding edges on the P series. The P series does offer a small wire stripper on the medium flat driver, complete with Carl Sagan style instructions etched onto the blade.


Pliers. Free series has a beefy pivot, but small bolt-area. Spirit has a small bolt area, but has more room in the bolt area, because the cutters are ridiculously small compared to modern tools. P4 and Wave+ have replaceable cutter blades, which I really like. Victorinox needs to follow suit with replaceable cutters AND stop using rivets on the SwissTools. I like screws I can tighten/loosen/service the tool with.


P2, P4, Spirit, Wave, and Charge TTi in a row.





P2 and P4 side-by side shots.

[ZapWizard]

Can I test your brain on one thing, please? What would be stopping someone buying a P4, and removing the knife layer to make it bladeless, if they lived/worked somewhere where a knifeless tool would be advantageous? I can't see anything beyond needing to shorten the screws a little, except maybe the lock release

I think the tool can be disassembled and reassembled easily enough, but there are a lot of parts to get back into place. The large screws use a nylon patch, which won't get any more solid over time. The small screws however use high strength chemical thread locker, and will get harder to remove over time. Applying some heat will break the bond though.

The straight blade is precisely 0.100" thick. The mounting hole is 0.120" in diameter. You could replace the blade with a washer that is up to 0.35" in diameter. McMaster part: 99604A101 probably would work.
Another option is to laser-cut some other useful implement out of 0.1" plastic, or water jet something from metal.

[Aloha]

Just wanted to thank you ZapWizard for your pictures and post  .  Really neat to see the tool taken apart and photographed.  I qapprectiare all you've added to this thread.  I was also wondering who would be the first to take their tool apart  .   

[ZapWizard]

Really neat to see the tool taken apart and photographed.  I qapprectiare all you've added to this thread.  I was also wondering who would be the first to take their tool apart  .   

My other daily carry is a "Make Warranty Voider" . 

--------------



This is the result of two evenings of 3D modeling so far. (I haven't yet modeled the pliers.)
On previous tools I only made a representative model, accurate only on the external most dimensions and any parts the holster interacted with.
This time I wanted to challenge myself to make a extremely accurate 3D model. I also did it as a sort of skill builder, to get better at CAD and product design.

--------------



After I took it apart: I took a macro photo on each part with a ruler in the shot. I use this, along with calipers, to 3D model each component in detail. The accuracy this way ends up about +/- 0.3mm.
The blade image above could for example be used by an enterprising individual to make a replacement blade from better steel (To those able to do that send me one when your done).

Once I sign up for R&D access forum: I will make a thread to get feedback on potential mods and holster designs.

[Syncop8r]

Great photos GLBM. Holy smurf they took ages to load on my crappy internet connection though. Do you resize them at all?

Oh and

Think making lists is OCD? hehe 

(Image removed from quote.)

[Poncho65]

Lots of great info on the Free

and Welcome to Zapwizard Great exploded view of the Free as well

[Wspeed]

Excellent pics GLBM and ZW

[Monrogue]

I appreciate each who have shared their impressions and pictures of the new toys. 

One item I have not read, yet, is the pocket clip and how the P2 and P4 will ride in a front pocket. 

Thank you AWL


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Ok, here is a pic of my P2 clipped in front right pocket.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Aloha]

Looks like a good fit. 

[gerleatherberman]

Great photos GLBM. Holy smurf they took ages to load on my crappy internet connection though. Do you resize them at all?

Oh and

thanks, Syncop8r!

 
I like to offer pics that can be blown up. I forget some people don't have super fast internet connections. Sorry about that.

Good point out.
In regards to the three blades not being identically oriented in that photo, the already shortish(relative to the P4 and Wave) SE blade looked WAY to short when placed with blade/edge-to-the-right, so a desicion was made to face it the other way to make the comparison fair. I hate that photo too.

[gerleatherberman]

Excellent pics GLBM and ZW

Thank you, W!

Ok, here is a pic of my P2 clipped in front right pocket.(Image removed from quote.)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Very nice.