Multitool.org Forum

Tool Talk => General Tool Discussion => Topic started by: alexTOOL on March 05, 2019, 02:36:39 PM

Title: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: alexTOOL on March 05, 2019, 02:36:39 PM
Hi!

What do you think is the most comfortable multitool when it is used like a knife.

Better ergonomics
Knife has full size of handles
Knife use is not limited by the handle of the tool

Example:

Leathetman PST                             BAD
Sog MicoToolClip- Lm Skeletool  Better
Sog Powerduo                                 Much better

Thanks!
Title: More comfortable multitool to use like a knife???
Post by: ezdog on March 05, 2019, 02:46:15 PM
The Emerson of the ones that I own.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190305/12c29ab53536adbfd32812e6c34b713d.jpg)

Also I suppose you are not including a SAK for this?

The OHT is my favorite though if you are.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool to use like a knife???
Post by: alexTOOL on March 05, 2019, 02:58:22 PM
The Emerson of the ones that I own.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190305/12c29ab53536adbfd32812e6c34b713d.jpg)

Also I suppose you are not including a SAK for this?

The OHT is my favorite though if you are.

Multitool WITH PLIERS

I am no taking into account SAKs
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: magentus on March 05, 2019, 03:00:17 PM
Maybe you could be clearer in what you want an opinion on Alex, and be a bit more sensitive when someone else has taken the time and trouble to add to your thread.

That Emerson looks excellent EZ - thanks for posting it.   :tu:
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool to use like a knife???
Post by: ezdog on March 05, 2019, 03:28:44 PM
Multitool WITH PLIERS

I am no taking into account SAKs

OK then,sorry for overlooking or ignoring that requirement?
Nevermind,neither of the ones I suggested have Pliers but a lot of SAKs do.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool to use like a knife???
Post by: Fuzzbucket on March 05, 2019, 03:48:00 PM
The Emerson of the ones that I own.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190305/12c29ab53536adbfd32812e6c34b713d.jpg)

Also I suppose you are not including a SAK for this?

The OHT is my favorite though if you are.

What's the fit n finish like on that Ez? I've always fancied one, but I've heard the tolerances can be a bit hit and miss.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: AimlessWanderer on March 05, 2019, 04:09:53 PM
Buck X-Tract (three of the four models have pliers)

SOG Switchplier
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Aloha on March 05, 2019, 04:22:42 PM
In my hand, LM Skeletool.  Either hand for that matter.  Great blade shape and steel 154CM with the tip and cutting edge well aligned in relation to my grip.  I thought the carabiner would be a pinch point but not so in my hand.  The spring bars are nicely shaped for my forefinger the bit holder is also slightly concave which nestles my ring finger nicely.   My thumb sits atop the opposing spring bars which are rounded over so no hot spots on my hand.  The fatty part of my hand rests along spring bars which are radiused and the wire for the carabiner, but doesnt get pinched.

Its a very comfortable knife in my hand.     
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: alexTOOL on March 05, 2019, 05:41:32 PM
Maybe you could be clearer in what you want an opinion on Alex, and be a bit more sensitive when someone else has taken the time and trouble to add to your thread.

That Emerson looks excellent EZ - thanks for posting it.   :tu:

I think I was correct in my answer

I only used capital letters to emphasize that I consider that a multitool is built around pliers.
So I changed the tittle to be more clear

Thank you and I am sorry if disturbed  :o
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: kirk13 on March 05, 2019, 05:45:08 PM
Try a Spirit!
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Etherealicer on March 05, 2019, 06:06:11 PM
Try a Spirit!
Overall a really comfortable MT, I second that.

Bladeless Rebar/MP600 or a Spirit XC (only serrated blade) together with a folder. Sure, it is 2 items but the pros of a separate knife (giving you the option to choose the blade style that suits you) outweigh that, at least for me.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Fuzzbucket on March 05, 2019, 07:01:46 PM
Overall a really comfortable MT, I second that.

Bladeless Rebar/MP600 or a Spirit XC (only serrated blade) together with a folder. Sure, it is 2 items but the pros of a separate knife (giving you the option to choose the blade style that suits you) outweigh that, at least for me.

 :iagree:... But, I also think it's hard to beat the OG Wave... especially the older ones.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: balvenie on March 05, 2019, 09:53:46 PM
Try a Spirit!
The Spirit is always suitable :multi:
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Steinar on March 05, 2019, 10:45:15 PM
I love the Spirit, but I think the LM Skeletool works better as a knife, so +1 for the Skeletool.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: RicHT on March 05, 2019, 11:16:56 PM
Leatherman freestyle has to be in with a shot! A personal favourite of mine. :cheers:
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Aloha on March 05, 2019, 11:27:56 PM
Leatherman freestyle has to be in with a shot! A personal favourite of mine. :cheers:

I've not handled one but I can imagine it would be as good as the Skeletool  :tu:
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: AndyTiedye on March 05, 2019, 11:28:55 PM
Best ergonomics, knife with full-size pliers:
Wenger New Ranger 90
(sadly, out of production)

Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: ducttapetech on March 06, 2019, 12:53:26 AM
This for me....
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: alexTOOL on March 06, 2019, 10:55:39 AM
Best ergonomics, knife with full-size pliers:
Wenger New Ranger 90
(sadly, out of production)

Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk

I was told that these type of pliers were very weak

What do you think?

Thank you all guys!
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Vidar on March 06, 2019, 11:20:47 AM
I was told that these type of pliers were very weak

What do you think?

The handle section of the pliers is short, so not much movement there to exploit for leverage. And as the handle is not that much longer than the plier head it has rather low leverage at the tip of the pliers.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Happy Gilmore on March 06, 2019, 01:23:22 PM
A leatherman REBAR or ST300 is likely going to be the best because they have inside tools. The pliers usage is ok on comfort but the blade is much more comfortable to use.

If you are looking for Outside facing tools I'd take a look at the Spirit X or wait for the new Leatherman Free series. The spirit has its issues but is one of the most comfortable tools I have.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: chrono on March 06, 2019, 01:32:22 PM
The SOG Powerduo could have been a good one. In my book, LM Charge with old Ti scale is it.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Steinar on March 06, 2019, 02:17:07 PM
A leatherman REBAR or ST300 is likely going to be the best because they have inside tools. The pliers usage is ok on comfort but the blade is much more comfortable to use.

[...]

I don't like using the knife as in inside tool, as I think it feels very clumsy handling the knife when the edge is "in the center of the handle", instead of "at the edge of the handle".
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Fuzzbucket on March 06, 2019, 02:34:22 PM
I don't like using the knife as in inside tool, as I think it feels very clumsy handling the knife when the edge is "in the center of the handle", instead of "at the edge of the handle".

I love my PSTs, but I have to agree with this - ideally you'd want the blades edge to be flush with or as close to the outside edge of the tool... It just makes more sense.

...Still love my PSTs though.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: magentus on March 06, 2019, 02:35:30 PM
I love my PSTs, but I have to agree with this - ideally you'd want the blades edge to be flush with or as close to the outside edge of the tool... It just makes more sense.

...Still love my PSTs though.
:iagree: Much as I love my MP400 the Spirit makes much more sense and is comfy to use.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: nate j on March 06, 2019, 05:45:36 PM
Slightly OT, but I think the compromises inherent in having full size pliers and a knife in the same tool are some of the reasons why so many folks carry combos, e.g. pliers-based MT + dedicated knife, pliers-based MT + SAK, or SAK + dedicated pliers.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Gareth on March 06, 2019, 06:06:00 PM
Not the most versatile, but the LM Freestyle is IMO a knife that happens to have pliers.  I preferred the ergonomics on it over those of the Skeletool.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: pfrsantos on March 06, 2019, 06:19:53 PM
Try a Spirit!

This or the Wave.

Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Aloha on March 07, 2019, 06:10:24 PM
I find the Wave and Spirit ok as knives. ON both there are proud sitting tools that make them only ok.  When talking ergos on the Spirit I always thought it was more about when used in plier mode  :think:.  Lot of proud tools when used in knife mode.  The Swisstool however is very different.  No proud tools when used in knife mode but in plier mode the blocky shape for some isn't as ergonomic. 
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Captain Hook on March 09, 2019, 06:48:37 AM
I vote skeletool. Best pocket knife w/ pliers out there. Note I said knife w/ pliers because I don't think it's in the same class as a wave or rebar which is pliers w/ a knife.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Brock O Lee on March 09, 2019, 12:35:29 PM
Slightly OT, but I think the compromises inherent in having full size pliers and a knife in the same tool are some of the reasons why so many folks carry combos, e.g. pliers-based MT + dedicated knife, pliers-based MT + SAK, or SAK + dedicated pliers.

 :iagree:

Sometimes a MT has too many compromises, and seperate tools are worth the extra bulk.

I like the Rebar, but it’s not comfortable in a hard grip. The Spyderco Native LW is not a champion of hand comfort either, but is in a different universe in comparison. The Knipex punches above it’s weight...

(https://i.postimg.cc/0j4dSjTn/dsc-0411.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/QKpTG8xK)
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Aloha on March 09, 2019, 04:28:06 PM
Just to add to the conversation, Juice S2 Original.  Its very comfortable in my hand about as much so as my 84mm SAKs. 
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Happy Gilmore on March 12, 2019, 02:49:25 AM
after pulling all my tool together and doing some tests...I can't find anything that comes close to the Spirit it both ergonomics, function, and quality when it comes to using the knife for an extended period of time. However, the Charge S30V blade was just as sharp at the end of the test as it was in the beginning and was only slightly uncomfortable to use.

I'd say either the Charge TTi or Spirit would be my top suggestions based on what I have atm.

Cheers,
H.G.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Aloha on March 12, 2019, 02:12:39 PM
I find the proud tools when used in knife mode hit my hand noticeably enough for the Spirit not to make my list.  Plier mode is another story.  My Charge TTi is the same.  Now don't get me wrong both work great as knives but they are not the MOST comfortable or more comfortable when compared to my Skeletool.  Its interesting as I've mentioned in this thread that the Swisstool while blocky is a bit more comfortable since the tools sit flush inside the frame as compared to both Charge and Spirit.   

I always enjoy threads like these.  Everyone has such different experiences.    :salute:
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Happy Gilmore on March 12, 2019, 03:31:45 PM
I find the proud tools when used in knife mode hit my hand noticeably enough for the Spirit not to make my list.  Plier mode is another story.  My Charge TTi is the same.  Now don't get me wrong both work great as knives but they are not the MOST comfortable or more comfortable when compared to my Skeletool.  Its interesting as I've mentioned in this thread that the Swisstool while blocky is a bit more comfortable since the tools sit flush inside the frame as compared to both Charge and Spirit.   

I always enjoy threads like these.  Everyone has such different experiences.    :salute:

I am really wondering if the Signal has similar or even better ergonomics as the skeletool. Anyone have one to test?
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Aloha on March 12, 2019, 04:24:54 PM
The plastic bit for the diamond file and ferro rod and if I'm being picky the pocket clip all in my hand would make the Signal not a contender.   
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Aloha on March 12, 2019, 04:29:02 PM
Let me toss a random MT out there for y'all,  LM LEEP.  The finger grooves make it comfortable for smaller hands. 
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: alexTOOL on May 09, 2019, 12:45:06 AM
Not the most versatile, but the LM Freestyle is IMO a knife that happens to have pliers.  I preferred the ergonomics on it over those of the Skeletool.

I prefer better a Skeletool  with carabiner cut. It is similar to a Freestyle, but with the bit driver
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: comis on May 09, 2019, 08:07:14 AM
Another vote for Spirit, probably one of the best MT with great aesthetics.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: ToolJoe on May 19, 2019, 10:21:53 PM
Spirit gets my vote. I haven't found anything close to it that works for me..
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: temo on May 19, 2019, 11:19:07 PM
I like ST300 simply the best. If need to put some pressure example carve wood (bigger slices). No edges in knife use position. Big handle. Easy to control. Rebar and spirit about the same for me. Skeletool as mentioned I think is good. But not as good for heavier carving. Still control and handling Ok.

Sent from my VIE-L09 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Happy Gilmore on May 20, 2019, 02:53:13 AM
Let me toss a random MT out there for y'all,  LM LEEP.  The finger grooves make it comfortable for smaller hands.

Yep, it's official for me. Over an hour of wood work and I was still enjoying it with bare hands. By far the most comfortable MT knife so far (who knew the Leap would be so good). The thickness and shape of the blade give me confidence too.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: Aloha on May 20, 2019, 07:28:56 AM
Probably a very underrated tool.  In hand it feels great.  Glad you found the same to be true.   :like:
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: comis on May 20, 2019, 07:57:45 AM
Probably a very underrated tool.  In hand it feels great.  Glad you found the same to be true.   :like:


 :iagree:  Leap got another vote from me, love the light weight and the contoured handle, ergo wise, I dare say it is even one of the best from LM camp.
Title: Re: More comfortable multitool WITH PLIERS to use like a knife???
Post by: kkokkolis on May 20, 2019, 09:46:39 AM
Skeletool os comfortable  in knife mode, in contrast with its pliers. It is not that much of a knife though (half serrated is mine), but thankfully I am gifted regarding big palms and long fingers (I was stupid and truant and didn't try to learn tha piano or violin, unfortunatelly) and I choose the Surge. Charge and Wave also.
Spirit's blades are nice but actually a downgrade from a regular SAK and the handle focuses on the most comfortable pliers experience.