Original leatherman vs. new leatherman

Joined
Nov 25, 1998
Messages
21
Which new leatherman is equivalent to the old, original leatherman? I gave away my old original but now I miss it. The Wave is a bit too heavy.
Should I get the Kick, Fuse, or Blast?
 
Hi,

Probably the Kick is closest to the original PST. I'd recommend going a tiny bit bigger and getting the Fuse as I find the scissors very useful.

Best - Joe
 
Leatherman's new line of low-mid range tools is way too bloated compared to their old offerings.

The original Leatherman Tool, the PST, featured the same implements as the Kick but also featured a file, something not found on the current line until one goes all the way up to the Blast. The Blast is much larger and heavier than the PST but does feature a file as well as a woodsaw.

If you don't need the same selection as the PST but a fairly close approximation in size and weight goe with the Kick. The Kick is basically a PST updated but minus the file (a glaring error in my eyes).
 
I agree with spoonrobot about the new tools. But if you like the originals, why not just buy another PST or PSTII? You can still find online auctions for them new in the box.
 
I agree with spoonrobot about the new tools. But if you like the originals, why not just buy another PST or PSTII? You can still find online auctions for them new in the box.

Good point, I forgot to mention that.

The PST/PST II are still viable carry options but the Pulse is an even better option.

The Pulse is basically a PST II updated with rolled handles for comfort when using the pliers, better wire cutters, and a locking system (that is fairly obtuse in use but workable). The Pulse has the same implements as the PST II but is much better when accounting for the improvements.

The Pulse can also be had for @20$ NIB shipped all day long on the eBay.

P5290420.jpg

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Leatherman's new line of low-mid range tools is way too bloated compared to their old offerings.

The original Leatherman Tool, the PST, featured the same implements as the Kick but also featured a file, something not found on the current line until one goes all the way up to the Blast. The Blast is much larger and heavier than the PST but does feature a file as well as a woodsaw.

If you don't need the same selection as the PST but a fairly close approximation in size and weight goe with the Kick. The Kick is basically a PST updated but minus the file (a glaring error in my eyes).

However, the Kick provides two less tools than the PST, and none of the above provides an awl!

There was an earlier thread on this subject in which it seemed a majority who posted didn't use or care about awls, so this may not have been a bad decision on the part of Leatherman, judging from comments then and now.
When the PST II was introduced, I remember a big fuss over the scissors and diamond file, almost none about the missing awl. Same thing when everyone was going gee whiz over one hand opening on the Charge and not noticing a missing staple.

Meanwhile, I find awls very useful and would prefer to have one. When considering a multi-tool, lack of an awl could be a deal breaker for me, more so than no scissors, for which I carry a Micra.
 
You can have all the awls on my SAKs. I never use them.

If you can figure out how, send them on down! :D

Once, I had talked myself into foregoing an awl, but the very first time with my new Leatherman Charge, I needed to start some wood screw holes. It bummed me to have to go fetch another tool. After awl, what are multi-tools all about, anyway?

What do you no-awlers do when you need to bore a hole into materials? How about if you have to probe something and don't want to touch it with your fingers? Or make field repairs on canvas or leather? Scrape something out?

During a typical week, I need mine just about awl the time. :)
 
If you can figure out how, send them on down! :D
What do you no-awlers do when you need to bore a hole into materials? How about if you have to probe something and don't want to touch it with your fingers? Or make field repairs on canvas or leather? Scrape something out?

I typically used a screwdriver to perform these functions. Since I have a CS4 I use the awl instead of the screwdriver mainly because I can access it without having to open the tool. It's a matter of convenience for me.

I agree with the opinion of buying a PST/PST II/Pulse off of eBay. there's nothing wrong with the Blast, Kick, or Fuse but if you liked the earlier models then you should certainly purchase what suits you best.
 
Duh... ebay. :thumbup:
I just assumed all the old leathermans had rusted in the bottom of tackle boxes. It looks like a few survived.
But I have to admit, now that I've been reading these posts I am looking more closely at the new models and alternative makers. However, price is a factor, and the old PSTs are cheap.
 
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