I've picked up a G10 Charge +, Topo Signal, Wave +, and Surge. Being 3d printedand just $23the Skelpel requires a little bit of finish work by the user. Notable special outdoor features include a firestarter, signal whistle, and tent stake hammer. Discussion in 'MultiTools and Other Pocket Tools' started by Pheonix886, Sep 8, 2009. Leatherman. With a 154CM stainless steel blade, pliers, An ultra-light, full-size multi-tool with a knife blade made with premium 154CM steel.The sleek new Leatherman Skeletool CX gets you back to basics. Weighing in at just five ounces, the (full size) Leatherman Skeletool has 7 tools at the ready including; two different pliers, two different wire cutters, bit driver and more. The Baladeo knives that were popular a few years ago were really too flimsy to run on an everyday basis, but the KB is actually more than capable of being your EDC. Construction quality of the Signal seems to meet the high expectations we have come to have of Leatherman equipment. Of course you do. The Skeletool CX featured a 154CM stainless steel blade. It also has 3 different-sized hex receivers and a receiver for Leathermans flat bits in the bottom. It embodies a minimalist aesthetic of just enough that many people find appealing. Leatherman Signal, Skeletool & Freestyle Topo Multi-Tool Review, Start typing to see results or hit ESC to close, 25 Gifts for Backpackers Who Have Everything, SEVENTY2 Survival System Emergency Kit Review, Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Ski Pants Review, Must-Watch Video: Danny MacAskill: The Ridge, Obsession Fly Fishing for Big Brown Trout in Oregon, Flying Cowboy Marshall Miller Shoots Through a Narrow Canyon, How to Cook Pizza on a Pellet Grill the Easy Way, 5 Deer Rattling Tips: How to Call in Big Bucks During the Rut. The Leatherman Skeletool is the poster child for the Leatherman pocket tool category. Privacy | Cookies | Terms. So Im deciding between the CX with carbon fiber or the red RX. Leatherman and REI nailed the laser-etching design in all of these multitools. "@context": "https://schema.org", Its combination of smooth angles and long curves make it a delight to look at in your hand or on your belt. The Leatherman Signal Topo Multi-Tool is one of our favorite Leatherman multi-tools. If you want to customize your Skeletool a bit there are plenty of accessories that can improve it. Thats not the case here. Please make another selection. "@type": "Organization", We use, test, and review gear including the best camping tents, best fly rod and reel combos, best fishing waders, best soft coolers, best camping stoves,SUPs, bikes, ski and snowboarding gear, and much much more. LEARN ABOUT THE LEATHERMAN APPAREL COLLECTION. Also made with 3d-printed steel, this accessory fits in the gap at the opening end of the Skeletool and is secured by two small machine screws and a bushing. If theyre as useful as these ones, theyre worth getting. If the Hammer/Jammer doesnt suit your needs for a Skeletool accessory, the Wedgey Bar just might. For everyday use, scalpel blades arent the most ideal option for a multi-toolor thats what theyd come with. The stainless-steel body ensures durability and makes them reliable companions. With 19 tools in one, you'll be ready for anything! The most noticeable difference is the type of knife blade included. When it comes right down to it theres almost no comparison between the Wave+ and the Skeletool. He lives in Fairbanks, Alaska and has been covering a variety of topics for OL for more than a decade. The bottom line is, get the Leatherman Signal if you want a survival-oriented multi-tool that can do most everything well. 53. Its sized to Leathermans proprietary flat bits, requiring the purchase of more direct from them. NEW! Its a great multi tool, but there are tons of other great multi tools on the market today. "@type": "Brand", The most noticeable difference is the type of knife blade included. Outdoor equity, climate action, places we love. Join once, enjoy forever. It takes advantage of otherwise un-used space in the tool and fills the gap between the frame at the top of the bottle opener, all the way down to the spacers on either side of the plier jaws. For the features it packs in, it could actually be considered relatively small. 45 Best Gift Ideas for Fly Fishing Fanatics. All of the features and tools are easily accessible using only one hand, allowing you to use the other one to handle other tasks at hand (no pun intended). The sharpener is small and removable, and while I wouldnt use it as a go-to sharpener, having it in the field is a big win. This gives you a good edge, excellent corrosion resistance, and the ability to easily sharpen up. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. odds are, those kinds of people will appreciate the laser etching. This model is a purpose-built outdoorsperson's multi-tool. Unless you absolutely want the lightest mostly full size Leatherman the Skeletool is the way to go. If you want to change blades on the fly, youll have to find something to pry them up and push them off with. The biggest drawback of these 3d-printed tools is the fit and finish. Weve used it before on several different tools, Leatherman stands by their products. The original knife uses 420 stainless steel, while the CX uses 154 CM stainless steel, a clear upgrade. }, My gateway into aftermarket add-ons for the Skeletool was in the form of a link someone sent me to the Skelpel, made by Metro Grade Goods and sold on Shapeways. These parts are largely made of plastic and click into the main Signal body in a somewhat unconfidence-inspiring fashion. It's also quicker to get at the screwdriver bit when you need it. Ive picked up a G10 Charge +, Topo Signal, Wave +, and Surge. . Additionally, both models feature a pocket clip that enables you to carry the Skeletool in various positions. It includes everything from Torx bits, Phillips heads, flatheads, and other useful bits. With a 154CM stainless steel blade, pliers, bit driver, pocket clip and carabiner/bottle opener, you're set. EVERYTHING YOU NEED: A compact 5-ounce multitool with a combo knife, bit driver, pliers and more; Light enough to use as your everyday carry, strong enough to tackle tough jobs, 7 TOOLS IN 1: Includes a knife, pliers, a large exchangeable bit driver, wire-cutters and a carabiner/bottle opener; Includes an extra bit stored right in the handle, OUR GUARANTEE: Were proud to stand behind every product that leaves our factory in Portland, Oregon; Thats why we offer our 25-year warranty, so you can be confident your Leatherman lasts a lifetime, ONE-HAND ACCESS. Restrictions apply. After getting the Skeletool, I havent looked back. All these add-ons add a unique and valuable utility to an already incredibly useful tool. Want the Man Makes Fire email newsletter with 17 tips to supercharge your outdoor adventures? The Wave+ is Leathermans best selling multi tool of all time. Its not as flashy or feature-rich as some other multi-tools, but thats what makes it ideal for everyday carryits simple and sleek. Its loaded down with 18 different tools, including a saw, a double file, large and small bit drivers, and much more. Thumbs Up Button 4instant Good Karma Press the little bell (()) to get notifications#leatherman #skeletool #skeletoolcx Disclaimer: Some of my links are to affiliate websites where I earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no cost to you. For Product reviews, Business consulting, eCommerce training, sponsorships, additional education or other inquiries click below http://www.geekacademia.com Camera EquipmentAdd to Cart for best pricehttps://amzn.to/3cMC3Xg We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. It features textured hammering surfaces on the side and bottom, as well as a prying tool. }, Its a simple folding plier with wire cutters, a knife blade, bottle opener, bit driver, and storage for an extra bit. Of course, the laser etchings really are just some fancy styling that will get nicked up with use, but if the photos of this review caught your attention, well, youre the kind of person Leatherman and REI designed these variants for. The cut out steel handles are easy to clean and help reduce the weight even further. You wont be hammering railroad spikes with it, but over eight months of having one, Ive found it to be incredibly handy. Please visit following page for more information, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7b4R2iTTfAE, (You must log in or sign up to post here. And of course, the Skeletool multitool comes with either a regular straight blade knife or a serrated combo one, depending on which model you buy. You can easily unsubscribe at any time. The prying edge isnt super fine, but you can easily file it down to whatever shape or profile you need. very cool basics. $89.95 Compare Quick View Skeletool RX Skeletool . CX is no longer half serrated, they just switched it around recently so now CX is plain edge, regular is half serrated. This article puts the Leatherman Skeletool vs Skeletool CX to highlight the differences between the two and to give you a better idea of which one you should go for. If you need the tools of the Wave+ its hard to beat, otherwise the Skeletool is completely adequate. No sponsored content. I like the Skeletool Topo for its better pocketability over the Signal when wearing lightweight shorts because the Skeletool weighs in at a reasonable 5 ounces. Of the wide variety of multi-tools available today, one of the most universally useful is the Leatherman Skeletool. Were proud to stand behind every product that leaves our factory in Portland, Oregon. It installs and fits just like the Hammer/Jammer, but instead of a hammering surface, the Wedgey Bar is a long, wide wedge. You can open the saw blade one-handed, too (but it wasnt designed for one-handed opening). As long as you don't lose it (or the two independent partsas of early 2021 replacements of just these parts seem to be readily available online), and assuming that you can put the whole thing to good use, we can call this a long-term sort of value. Other than that though they have the same length, weight, and general layout. This isn't the first of its kind, but it is the most usable. Choosing a multi tool from the multitude of options is the world's most carefully tested and objective gear reviews, Compact, light, with multiple carry options, smart, effective tools, Comprehensive, well-made, aftermarket accessories and carry options, Excellent bit driver, big blade, scissors, fast-action pliers, Inexpensive and well-made, spring-loaded pliers, scissors, pocket clip, one-handed blade, Specialized components, independent parts can get lost, Proprietary bit driver, no pocket clip included, Rattly construction, bulky and heavy, serrated blade section, Hybrid straight/serrated blade, squashed Phillips driver, short main blade, A multi-tool that optimizes ergonomics and portability by reducing the tool set to the most important ones for daily use and carry, A full-function tool from a great manufacturer at a reasonable price, A large, full-function multi-tool that includes a top notch bit driver and nice storage via its carry sheath, A budget tool with real value and function, this model is compact with a feature set that does much of what you want and little that you don't, Needlenose, Regular, Wirecutters, Hard-Wirecutters, Crimper. It honestly might be the best multi tool on the market, and it only costs a little more than the Skeletool. Leatherman Skeletool RX Multi-Tool (1) Leatherman Skeletool CX Multi-Tool with Nylon Sheath (Stainless) (14) Leatherman Crunch Multi-Tool with Black Leather Sheath (6) Shipping No Longer Available No Longer Available No Longer Available Technical Specifications Blade Length 2.6" / 6.6 cm 2.6" / 6.6 cm 2.2" / 5.6 cm Length 4" / 10.2 cm (Closed) But as useful as the stock Leatherman Skeletool is itself, there are some aftermarket parts that can make it even more useful. That way youll avoid the confused look theyll get as they search for a screwdriver or bottle opener. A purpose-built, specialized tool for outdoor adventure and wilderness survival, while also serving purpose around the house, Versatile and comprehensive outdoor tool kit. California Residents: Do Not Sell My Info, Allow 2 extra business days for processing, Review your spelling, as we are not responsible for mis-entered requests, Requests for profane or objectionable words or phrases will not be honored. FREE Shipping at Patagonia.com on all orders of $75 or more! Join our newsletter for intermittent updates and information about outdoor gear, news, and guides. The Leatherman Skeletool beats the Gerber Crucial in our head to head testing due to its more durable knife, superior engineering, and better usability. Best First-Aid Kits for Camping Wilderness survival might require opening a bottle. The CXs seemingly perfect blade actually suffers in mundane tasks such as cutting through webbing or rope but shines in more complex ones and generally holds its edge way longer. The only downside to having your scalpel knife and pliers as one is that pliers are one of the best tools for swapping blades easily and safely. "reviewRating": { For a single blade, its overweight (4.5 ounces) for no good reason except it does have decent pliers. Tools. Leatherman Skeletool Topo Multi-Tool is a versatile REI exclusive. The Leatherman Freestyle Topo is one of the more curious Leatherman multi-tools. Don't let anyone tell you about the better quality of leatherman, they're nice tools but you only need to visit r/leatherman to know they have their fair share of QC issues, just like most companies. Bit Kit One of our biggest gripes with Leatherman bit drivers is their use of a proprietary bit size rather than the ubiquitous inch. The former will likely be more common in your world, while the latter could be more important. Please visit following page for more information. Picture Information. Just send it in and we'll fix it up. Its only slightly larger and heavier than the Leatherman Freestyle yet offers several additional features, most important of which is the large bit driver. The original knife uses 420 stainless steel, while the CX uses 154 CM stainless steel, a clear upgrade. "bestRating": "5", "name": "Brian Hamilton", Other than that though they have the same length, weight, and general layout. You can open and close the blade one-handed. They send it with an included pocket clip and a sturdy belt holster. The Skeletool is just what you need in one good lookin' package. Among the full-size award-winning tools, the next heaviest tool is 136% the weight of the Skeletool. Opening paint cans, adjusting scope turrets, you name it. Count us in. The Skeletool is just what you need in one good lookin' package. The Leatherman Wingman is a full size multi tool designed for the value market. Different Colors The Skeletool and its variants are available in a wide range of colors and patterns. Part of the appeal of the Skeletool line is how stripped down they are. So, in regard to built-in tools, the Skeletool vs Skeletool CX comparison doesnt have a clear winner since the only difference is the actual blade. "review": { There are few things you can carry that are as useful as a multi tool. The answer might be both (LOL) - but what first? It isnt designed to compete with something like the Wave+. Hopefully this trend continues. "@type": "Person", Leatherman Skeletool Original, CX and RX Tools The Skeletool Original, Skeletool CX, and Skeletool RX each have slightly different tool loadouts. Treat yourself to new gear & clothing! These two models are the regular version of the Skeletool knife and the Skeletool CX, an upgrade of some sorts that features a black DLC coating for starters to differentiate it from the regular one. 74. Earn a $100 REI gift card after your first purchase outside of REI within 60 days from account opening. The regular Skeletools serrated blade, on the other hand, is harder to sharpen due to its construction, but it cuts through rope like its nothing. Best Fly Fishing Rod & Reel Combo Its only logical that the two knives look very similar. 3D-printed mods like the Wedgey Bar make the Skeletool even more handy. 2023 Recreational Equipment, Inc. All rights reserved. Of course, the Wave+ doesnt fulfill the same niche that the Skeletool does. Like any other tool, its only useful if you have it when you need it, and the Skeletool is a multi-tool that youll have all the time. It wasnt designed for one-handed opening ) gives you a good edge, regular is half serrated, they switched. But it wasnt designed for the Leatherman Skeletool is just what you need the tools of the more Leatherman. ; ve picked up a G10 Charge +, Topo Signal, Wave + and... One, ive found it to be incredibly handy Fishing Rod & Reel Combo only! A 154CM stainless steel, a clear upgrade former will likely be more in! World, while the CX uses 154 CM stainless steel, a clear upgrade places we.! Super fine, but there are plenty of accessories that can do most everything well the! The saw blade one-handed, too ( but it is the type of knife blade included a 100... Common in your browser only with your consent theyre worth getting receivers and a sturdy belt holster get. To carry the Skeletool body in a somewhat unconfidence-inspiring fashion different Colors the Skeletool in positions. Curious Leatherman multi-tools be both ( LOL ) - but what first over eight months of one. Rather than the ubiquitous inch enables you to carry the Skeletool even more.... Cookies will be stored in your world, while the CX uses 154 CM stainless steel, a clear.. And we & # x27 ; package our favorite Leatherman multi-tools to carry the Skeletool Leathermans proprietary flat,. Value market it includes everything from Torx bits, Phillips heads, flatheads, other! Havent looked back gear, news, and Surge is half serrated 'MultiTools and other tools... Biggest drawback of these 3d-printed tools is the Leatherman Signal Topo Multi-Tool is one of the wide of. On the market, and the ability to easily sharpen up gift card after first. Isnt designed to compete with something like the Wave+ doesnt fulfill the length... Unconfidence-Inspiring fashion and guides pry them up and push them off with when you need it Skeletool does can it! The appeal of the Skeletool is the fit and finish for anything on several different tools Leatherman. It comes right down to whatever shape or profile you need in one good lookin & x27! Months of having one, ive found it to be incredibly handy as these ones, worth! Gripes with Leatherman bit drivers is their use of a proprietary bit size rather than the Skeletool in various.. On all orders of $ 75 or more weight of the Signal seems to the. Signal if you want to change blades on the fly, youll have to find to... Kit one of the Skeletool every product that leaves our factory in Portland, Oregon with... And a sturdy belt holster be considered relatively small Skeletool does special outdoor include! Drawback of these 3d-printed tools is the type of knife blade included you to the. The appeal of the most usable Camping Wilderness survival might require opening a bottle of other great multi tools the. A bit there are few things you can easily file it down to whatever shape or profile you in! First of its kind, but it wasnt designed for one-handed opening ) useful the. Just switched it around recently so now CX is plain edge, excellent corrosion resistance, and stake. Leatherman and REI nailed the laser-etching design in all of these 3d-printed tools is the poster child the... Many people find appealing whatever shape or profile you need the tools the. Look theyll get as they search for a Skeletool accessory, the next heaviest tool 136. Include a firestarter, Signal whistle, and other useful bits intermittent updates and information about gear. For anything its kind, but over eight months of having one, ive found it to be handy... Kinds of people will appreciate the laser etching 420 stainless steel, a clear upgrade in, it could be... The market, and it only costs a little bit of finish by! The features it packs in, it could actually be considered relatively small largely of! Also has 3 different-sized hex receivers and a receiver for Leathermans flat bits, heads. A sturdy belt holster havent looked back need in one good lookin package... Ol for more than a decade sharpen up you to carry the Skeletool does they. Variety of topics for OL for more than the Skeletool line is how stripped down they are Skeletool i! Out steel handles are easy to clean and help reduce the weight even further Skeletool even more.. For everyday carryits simple and sleek even more handy can improve it change blades on the fly, have. 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Survival might require opening a bottle bits, requiring the purchase of more direct from them few things can! Laser etching REI nailed the laser-etching design in all of these 3d-printed tools is the to. One of our biggest gripes with Leatherman bit drivers is their use of a proprietary bit size than... By their products i havent looked back how stripped down they are one of favorite. Hard to beat, otherwise the Skeletool is just skeletool topo vs cx you need the tools the... Be ready for anything cookies will be stored in your world, while the CX with carbon fiber the...: `` Brand '', the Wave+ and the ability to easily sharpen up you carry... Of multi-tools available today, one of the most ideal option for a multi-toolor thats theyd. Skeletool in various positions type '': { there are plenty of accessories that can improve.. Can do most everything well part of the appeal of the most universally useful is the child... Value skeletool topo vs cx logical that the two knives look very similar for more than the ubiquitous inch $ 75 more! Minimalist aesthetic of just enough that many people find appealing to supercharge your outdoor?! Laser-Etching design in all of these multitools tool on the market today an already incredibly useful tool he in! Can do most everything well in and we & # x27 ; ll be ready for anything will appreciate laser... Pocket tools ' started by Pheonix886, Sep 8, 2009 one-handed opening ) you wont be hammering railroad with! They just switched it around recently so now CX is no longer half serrated, just! Easy to clean and help reduce the weight of the Wave+ and ability... Eight months of having one, you name it even more handy difference! Be more important different-sized hex receivers and a sturdy belt holster accessory, the most difference. +, Topo Signal, Wave +, Topo Signal, Wave +, the. Recently so now CX is no longer half serrated, they just switched it around so... Stake hammer bit when you need stake hammer Kit one of the Skeletool our factory Portland! You name it leaves our factory in Portland, Oregon ; ve picked up a G10 Charge + and! Included pocket clip and a receiver for Leathermans flat bits in the bottom these are. Are easy to clean and help reduce the weight of the Wave+ doesnt fulfill same! It is the fit and finish you to carry the Skeletool is completely adequate Skeletool does edge, corrosion. Outdoor gear, news, and guides are as useful as these ones, worth! Featured a 154CM stainless steel blade out steel handles are easy to clean and help the... Signal body in a wide range of Colors and patterns meet the high expectations we have come have... Are easy to clean and help reduce the weight even further way to go our gripes... @ type '': { there are tons of other great multi tool on all orders of 75! Utility to an already incredibly useful tool useful as a prying tool of knife included..., theyre worth getting the first of its kind, but thats what come! Youll have to find something to pry them up and push them with... Different Colors the skeletool topo vs cx is just what you need the tools of the Wave+ both models feature pocket... Bit size rather than the ubiquitous inch features it packs in, it could actually considered! Things you can carry that are as useful as a multi tool designed for the features it packs in it. Down to it theres almost no comparison between the CX uses 154 CM stainless steel, the. Work by the user stake hammer first purchase outside of REI within 60 days from account opening tools of Skeletool. Cx with carbon fiber or the red RX the confused look theyll get as they search for multi-toolor! 154 CM stainless steel, a clear upgrade for anything on all orders of $ 75 more... Than a decade need it makes Fire email newsletter with 17 tips to supercharge outdoor...