Lost my Beloved PST 2 - What Should I Replace it With?

[reTool]

I lost my beloved PST II that I've had for years and years.  I keep it in my work briefcase, but use it around the house when I don't want to reach for my toolbox, including bringing it out in the yard. I also take it with me in my shaving kit when I travel. The features I used most often where the knife, screwdrivers and pliers. I'd like to not spend more than $50 on a replacement - unless someone can convince me otherwise.

To replace it - I did go on the Leatherman site - studied my options and then hunted down a Wingman at Lowe's on Black Friday for $30. It arrived this morning  and I have yet to open the package. It's a bit bigger and heavier compared with my PST II. Should I keep it? Or is there something better out there for my needs/budget? 

Thanks in advance for your thoughts,
reTool

[gregozedobe]

If you liked your PST II so much why not buy another ?  (obviously it will be s'hand)  I see lots for sale on US ebay.

[reTool]

Thanks for the speedy response gregozedobe !

I hadn't really considered that - but it makes a lot of sense!  I peeked at eBay and you're right, most are used - and they are relatively pricey given that state. But it's definitely an option.

That said, given that I get to make the choice again - I was wondering if there are improvements or alternatives that I would like.

Then I guess I can decide.

So thank you again gregozedobe - and if any one else would like to make suggestions - I'm all ears!

[Poncho65]

Welcome to

A second hand PST II isn't very bad priced if you look for just Leatherman on ebay The older PST II were labeled Leatherman Tool and you have to look at the pictures to see if they are a PST or a PST II  Good luck with the search Also a LM Rebar is a worthy replacement You do lose the scissors and diamond file unfortunately also a LM Pulse has the same toolset exactly except it has a plain edge blade and locks but it unfortunately is discontinued as well Hope you find something to replace it that you like

[reTool]

Thanks for your thoughts Poncho65

Now that I'm studying the build of these tools more carefully - it seems the Rebar does seem more similar to the PST II in it's construction. Seems that it moves into the next LM price bracket - $60 - but I can find at Dick's Sporting Goods at $48 for the moment. As you point out - I'd have to give up a few things - but the better wire cutters is definitely a plus - and the can opener makes a decent parcel opener. You got me thinking there....Any SOG Tools that would fit the bill? (Maybe I'm asking that in the wrong forum ;-) )

Anyway - thanks again Poncho65 - keep up with your thoughts everyone!

[ThundahBeagle]

You listed your most common tools and neither the diamond coated file nor the scissors were among them. If you really like the size and construction if it, I would go PST original if you don't use the scissors, or PST II if you do use the scissors.

I have a PST and a PST II, and wish they would bring them back.

Having said that, if scissors are of no concern, and if you prefer the old school build and configuration styles, I would get a Rebar. I have one of those as well and it has been on my belt ever since, with only the occasional move to the SURGE!!.

Maybe the Wave will do you well. I held one and it seemed downright dainty, but that was while I was carrying the SURGE!! full time. I bet it compares in size and weight to the PST.

The Blast would also be an excellent choice if the Zytel is OK with you, but you would have  pick one up used as well because it's been out of production for about 5 years now

[reTool]

Thanks ThundahBeagle !

As I'm studying the options more carefully - I'm starting to think the Rebar would be the one for me - but still am trying to keep an open mind - so I'm still open to more thought/ideas! In the meantime, I won't open the Wingman up just yet.

Thanks again!

[Poncho65]

A Wingman is a fine tool but just not going to replace your PSTII (my opinion only though ) I love the Rebar and carry it rather frequently As for SOG, I don't know as much much about the different models as I do with LM They are solid MTs though and have came out with some rather good looking designs in the past couple years

[firiki]

Welcome to the forums, reTool.

LM Sideclip and Flair come to mind, too. Also, the Pulse . All discontinued, all pretty good IMO.

Should you decide you'd like a discontinued tool, you could also say so in the trades section here at MTO. Someone might be able to help you.

[reTool]

Thanks again Poncho65 and finki too - will do some more homework!

[SteveC]

Get them all !    


Welcome to the forum ! 

If you stick around here that where you'll end up   


Rebar is a fine option and it's what I first chose to replace my PST. Having said that if you like your PST II you can find them for around the same or cheaper than a new Rebar.

[ironraven]

The Rebar is what I picked for my EDC to replace my Supertool AND the PST that my very light day and dressy carry. Of course, it is supplemented by others... but... that's the nature of this lifestyle.

Back on topic... If you don't need the scissors, it would be my first choice. If you do, a Rebar and a Vic would be my recommendation.

[Huntsman]

To take a a couple of slightly different tacks

How about a SAK with pliers - Probably not an option as pliers too small
The Swisstool Spirit is amazing and has pliers, scissors, blade, SDs everything you want - But does not meet price criteria
What about a Juice - Lots of models to choose from to meet your perfect configuration - And they are a very handy compact tool?

Fraid I only really know SAKs and LMs - So can't help with other brands  

[cody6268]

Used PSTs/PSTIIs aren't all that expensive--I'd go with another one of those. 

[ThundahBeagle]

To chime in once more, a Rebar on my belt with a Micra on my keys covers all of my needs.

I then carry a Swiss Army knife because I always have.

The SURGE!! alone covers all of my needs as well, but that is in a totally different weight class and may be a factor in an uptick in curvature of the spine cases since its release. Y-yikes!

[Lynn LeFey]

I think the Wingman is actually a pretty good replacement for the PST II.

I've done some hard testing on the Wingman and Sidekick, and they are solid tools. The downside is they'er about an ounce and a half heavier than the PST II. The BIG upside is one hand open blade, and for many, the pocket clip is a nice addition.

If all else fails, I have a PST II in reasonably good condition. The blade needs some work, but is otherwise fine, and I have no attachment to it. PM me if you are interested.

[Nix]

Another vote for the Rebar. 

[reTool]

(Thanks everyone on this thread - sorry to be AWOL the whole weekend through and into Monday PM!)

So you all got me thinking and I found the Rebar on Amazon for $44.95 - so I ordered it. It's due at the office tomorrow - and I still have the Wingman unopened. So I hope I can tell by your input and my gut with the two products embedded deep in their plastic casing as to which one to actually keep. I'll post what I finally decide.

While I have your ears - the Rebar I ordered was 831547 - but I see others listed as 831551 - what's the difference - if any?

[Lynn LeFey]

The former is the nylon sheath, and the latter is the leather sheath. No other difference that I can find.

[Old Boy]

Not to derail things since you’ve made your purchases. But if are firm on just those 3 most common tools than a Skeletool might work out for you. But just know that the pliers are not meant for heavy use.

Any way whatever you choose will be perfect for you. Coz ya know, it’s a Leatherman!!

Can you tell I’m a Leatherman guy? Lol.

[reTool]

Thanks for the latest posts Lynn LeFey and OldBoy2016

Lynn - Didn't even realize that a sheath was involved - so that's great. As to OldBoy2016 - I actually am familiar with the Skeletool - a friend has one. I really like it's light weight and great design - but it has too few tools for me. But a very reasonable suggestion.

Thanks again- and others - please feel free to continue to share your thoughts. My Rebar is due to arrive today - so I should have a chance to at least view both in the plastic case together.

[Syph007]

I would go rebar.  Best value I think. You get good tools for a decent price and its miles above a wingman in quality.

[Syncop8r]

No one has suggested a Wave? Perhaps out of your price range. One handed opening though. Maybe handle some multitools in a store first to get more of an idea?

[Lynn LeFey]

I think minus the loss of the scissors and a little added weight and size, you'll find the Rebar to be an awesome tool. Dollar-for-dollar, I think it's one of Leatherman's best offerings, and you get a great tool set with it.

[reTool]

Thanks Syncop8r and Lynn for keeping this thread going!

As to the Wave - yes - out of budget.

Lynn - that's my current thinking - but we'll see once I get to see them up close.

Feel free keep this rolling with more thoughts!

[ThePeacent]

Thanks Syncop8r and Lynn for keeping this thread going!

As to the Wave - yes - out of budget.

Lynn - that's my current thinking - but we'll see once I get to see them up close.

Feel free keep this rolling with more thoughts!

if it is within your budget I'd keep the Rebar and the Wingman, as they offer very different features that compliment each other very nicely

OHO Blade - two handed blade
scissors - no scissors
outside tools - inside tools
spring loaded - no spring
non replaceable cutters - replaceable cutters
clip - no clip
flat Phillips - 3D Phillips
SE blade - PE blade

etc.



the Rebar is better IMO but the Wingman is the best of the 3 Leatherman entry level tools   

[reTool]

Sooo....the Rebar arrived! (In a traditional box - not within sealed plastic.) 

A little thicker than ideal - but still very nice. Everything thing seems very stiff - I assume it breaks in after awhile or is there some trick to break it in? And tips or pointers on this?
 

Think I'm going with the Rebar.

[Dutch_Tooler]

Should relatively quickly get less stiff with use... one could loosen the screws in theory to speed things up but I wouldn't bother, you'd have to re-tighten them before long (and re-apply Loctite if you wanted to go by the book).

Good luck - I'll hazard a guess you'll like the Rebar (I do) 

Sent on my SM-G930F with Tapatalk

[ToolJoe]

Rebar is a solid choice. I had one and it was nice, just not for me.