Leatherman Surge
The Leatherman Surge is an impressive tool to have when tackling your to-do lists and projects that just come up. Being compact for easy carrying but having full size main tools like the pliers, scissors and knife allows for getting bigger repairs done on the go without having to lug around a large toolbox. The Surge has 21 tools that are made of quality materials with function and durability in mind to be your go to tool for years.
The Surge is a versatile multi-tool that can stand a lot of use. Loaded with pliers, scissors, knives, screwdrivers and wire cutters to name only a few of the tools this powerhouse has built in. Once you start using this tool, you will not stop pulling the Surge out because the uses are limitless. The company has a 25 year warranty to back up this heavy-duty multi-tool to assure you have continued quality with years of use.
If you have used other brands of multi-tools before the Surge, you will wish you switched years ago. This tool is solid as a rock and works like a tank. Virtually indestructible while compact enough to carry with you everywhere. You will pass this down to a family member, or not want to part with it and purchase them one of their own.
Durable
Quality blade
Tools lock into place
Convenient carrying sheath
25 Year Warranty
Heavier and Bigger
Higher Price than other multi-tools
Primary Use
Emergency personal such as firefighters, law enforcement and first responders carry the Leatherman Surge for a reason. In professions that you never know what you are going to come across having a tool that can do it all can save time and lives. Other users have purchased it to have in their vehicles and even when sending off a child to college or a new home owner just starting out.
Tools such as a saw, three types of wire cutters, screw drivers, metal/wood files and two types of pliers only start off the long list you can use. The list will continue with a wire stripper, Awl with a thread loop, ruler, electrical crimper, and bottle opener for a few more options. The multi-tool is considered heavy duty not only for the design but the jobs it can take one.
Blade
The 420HC blade is made from stainless steel that is heat treated, giving it durability with the ease of cleaning. The high carbon steel material is one of the hardest and most preferred metal for blades. It can be sharpened to a precise edge, giving it a sharp edge with resistance to wear that other grades cannot provide. When choosing a knife, the material is something to consider for longevity of your investment.
Accessories
All the tools open individually to access them one at a time. The pliers don’t get better than the ones in the Surge multi-tool. The pointed nose for finer work, the standard for clamp something together and nut grippers with easy access. You can cut, slice, bend and crimp with all the wire cutters. Don’t worry if you use the wrong cutter for the job the cutters are replaceable.
The blade driver you are able to put in either the metal/ wood file or the diamond-coated file. The blade exchanger cover slides sideways at the base to insert the blade and slide the cover back into place to secure the blade. Standard blades work best in one direction compared to the diamond-coated which works in the multi-direction or circular motion.
The knives that come in the multi-tool are of high quality, durable carbon steel that most users are pleased with their performance. There is the option to change the blade for your individual needs. If choosing a different blade, check the size of the new blade to match the dimensions. It is important for the safety feature and that the one handed access will work the way the multi-tool is designed. The four tools that are on the exterior of the handle make it convenient for easy access and one handed opening.
The sturdy small and large screwdriver are exactly what you would expect. The bit exchanger holds the reversible flat head and Phillips screwdriver bit. Bit kits that come in a 9 or 21 piece set and a bit driver extender is also available. If using the sheath to carry the multi-tool one row of bits fits in the sheath if there are certain bits you continually use.
Using the awl with thread loop for when you need a sharp tip and do not want to risk your knife comes in handy. The ruler, can and bottle opener are just additional nice touches to have readily available all packed into the handles.
Durability
The Leatherman Surge has been tested by all types of users from the handyman to the industrial construction professional with the same amazing results. A high recommendation is to own this tool from the first day on the job. It has been dropped, heavy items have fallen on it and even dropped in mud puddles with only a few scratches, all the tools still worked.
Weight
The weight is just over 20% heavier than other multi-tools in the category however the tool assortment make up for the difference. The full size versions of the two knives, spring loaded scissors and pliers add to the overall weight. That being said they are also some of the most used on the multi-tool.
Finish
Safety
Price
Key Features
Full size pliers and scissors
21 tools total
All locking features
Outside access features
One hand operating tools
Heavy-Duty design
Carrying sheath
25 year warranty
Bottom Line
With all the tool options it might seem complicated which is further than the truth. The one handed tool opening options with the compact build make using and carrying the Surge easy. Longtime users in both the private and commercial industry recommend the Leatherman Surge as an all time favorite. Most owners will tell you they have purchased one to give to a friend or family member. Invest in a great tool to get great results.