SMKW: Comparing three popular Multi-Tools from SOG, Gerber, and Leatherman Media
Published: 4 years ago
TC shows you three different brands of multi-tools that all fall in the same price range, including the SOG PowerAccess Assist MT, the Gerber Center-Drive, and the Leatherman Free P2. Take a look and decide which might be the best multi-tool for you.
Featured Multi-Tools:
SOG PowerAccess Assist MT - https://www.smkw.com/sog-poweraccess-assisted-multi-tool-stonewash
What stands out:
The real gem on this multi-tool is the proprietary Compound Leverage opening mechanism. SOG says the "Gear-driven pivot points generate greater handle travel in relation to plier movement, offering twice the cutting and gripping power of conventional pliers for smoother and easier use."
It also offers assisted-opening for multiple frequently used everyday knife blades and tools.
21 Tools. 4.5" Closed. 6.8" Overall. Weighs 6.4oz Molle Compatible Sheath.
Gerber Center-Drive - https://www.smkw.com/gerber-center-drive-blk-bts-molle-3
What stands out:
The Center-Drive was revolutionary in the multi-tool category when it came out because of the tool that it derives its name from: the center-axis driver (aka the Center-Drive). Up to the point of this multi-tool's release, all bit drivers were off axis and close into the tool itself. The swing-arm center-drive created a tool with a true, full size screw/bit driver that is on axis like a standard screw/bit driver.
The Gerber also uses spring-loaded jaws that can be opened with a snap of the wrist or the flick of a thumb slide. And, the tools themselves are made to be opened one-handed with a "flick of your thumb"
11 Tools. 4.7" Closed. 6.6" Overall. Weighs 9.5oz. Molle Compatible Sheath. Made in the USA.
Leatherman Free P2 - https://www.smkw.com/leatherman-free-p2-tool-silver-lm832636
What stands out:
Leatherman invented the multi-tool. The "Free" series was a re-imagination of the original tool that made it completely one-handed. As Leatherman says on their site, "Integrated FREE technology means all 19 tools are easily accessed with one hand, open smoothly, and click into place with a confident snap."
Every tool in the P2 locks out and is easily unlocked one-handed.
19 Tools. 4.25" Closed. Weighs 7.6oz. Includes Nylon Belt Sheath and Pocket Clip. Made in the USA.
Featured Multi-Tools:
SOG PowerAccess Assist MT - https://www.smkw.com/sog-poweraccess-assisted-multi-tool-stonewash
What stands out:
The real gem on this multi-tool is the proprietary Compound Leverage opening mechanism. SOG says the "Gear-driven pivot points generate greater handle travel in relation to plier movement, offering twice the cutting and gripping power of conventional pliers for smoother and easier use."
It also offers assisted-opening for multiple frequently used everyday knife blades and tools.
21 Tools. 4.5" Closed. 6.8" Overall. Weighs 6.4oz Molle Compatible Sheath.
Gerber Center-Drive - https://www.smkw.com/gerber-center-drive-blk-bts-molle-3
What stands out:
The Center-Drive was revolutionary in the multi-tool category when it came out because of the tool that it derives its name from: the center-axis driver (aka the Center-Drive). Up to the point of this multi-tool's release, all bit drivers were off axis and close into the tool itself. The swing-arm center-drive created a tool with a true, full size screw/bit driver that is on axis like a standard screw/bit driver.
The Gerber also uses spring-loaded jaws that can be opened with a snap of the wrist or the flick of a thumb slide. And, the tools themselves are made to be opened one-handed with a "flick of your thumb"
11 Tools. 4.7" Closed. 6.6" Overall. Weighs 9.5oz. Molle Compatible Sheath. Made in the USA.
Leatherman Free P2 - https://www.smkw.com/leatherman-free-p2-tool-silver-lm832636
What stands out:
Leatherman invented the multi-tool. The "Free" series was a re-imagination of the original tool that made it completely one-handed. As Leatherman says on their site, "Integrated FREE technology means all 19 tools are easily accessed with one hand, open smoothly, and click into place with a confident snap."
Every tool in the P2 locks out and is easily unlocked one-handed.
19 Tools. 4.25" Closed. Weighs 7.6oz. Includes Nylon Belt Sheath and Pocket Clip. Made in the USA.