In the world of multitools, there are a plethora of brands to choose from. In this article, a video comparison of several popular brands such as Leatherman, Gerber, SOG, Victorinox, DeWalt, Mossy Oak, Ozark Trail, and more will be outlined. The multitools are put to the test in various categories including knife sharpness, quality of knife steel, screwdriver durability, strength of knife blade locks, corrosion resistance, and ergonomic comfort. The tester purchased all the multitools for the purpose of this informative video, which aims to help viewers make an informed decision when selecting their ideal multitool.
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Knife Sharpness Test
In this test, we will compare the sharpness of different multitools. The goal is to determine which brand has the sharpest edge. We will be testing the following brands: Ozark Trail, Leatherman Skeletool, Havalon, and other brands.
Starting with the least expensive brand, the Ozark Trail multitool performed surprisingly well in terms of knife sharpness. Priced at around $5, it had a sharpness score of 175, which is quite impressive.
Next, we have the Leatherman Skeletool, which is priced at around $80. After exposure to aluminum, the Skeletool had the sharpest blade among all the tested brands. It scored 80 on the sharpness scale, showcasing its high-quality blade.
The Havalon brand, known for its sharpness, had the sharpest initial blade at 135. However, the Ozark Trail performed surprisingly well with a sharpness score of 175, considering its affordable price.
Overall, in terms of knife sharpness, the Leatherman Skeletool stood out with its exceptional blade quality, closely followed by the Havalon and the Ozark Trail.
Knife Steel Quality
The quality of the steel used in the knife blades is an essential factor to consider. Knives that use premium steel are more likely to hold an edge over knives that use less expensive steel.
In our test, we compared the performance of multitools using premium steel versus those with less expensive steel. It was observed that more expensive multitools generally held a sharper edge better than the less expensive brands.
It’s worth noting that knives that start off relatively dull are less likely to experience severe dulling. Therefore, investing in a multitool with high-quality steel is crucial for maintaining sharpness over time.
Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion resistance is another important consideration when choosing a multitool. To test this, we conducted a rusting agent test on various brands.
The Ozark Trail and most other tools showed significant rust when exposed to the rusting agent. However, the Mossy Oak and Gerber Gear performed better in terms of corrosion resistance.
The Leatherman Charge Plus, known for its durability, had less rust than the other brands tested. Additionally, it offered excellent handle comfort during use.
Ergonomic Comfort
Ergonomic comfort is crucial, especially when using a multitool for extended periods. We tested the ergonomic comfort of different brands, and here are the results:
The Leatherman Charge Plus stood out with its exceptional ergonomic design. It provided comfortable grip and ease of use, making it a top choice for long-term usage.
The Ozark Trail and Stanley brands, although affordable, were found to be uncomfortable during testing. On the other hand, the Mossy Oak multitool performed well in terms of comfort and offered good value for the price.
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Strength Test: Wire Cutters
Another important aspect of a multitool is its wire cutter strength. We conducted a wire cutter strength test on various brands to determine which ones were the strongest. Here are the results:
- The Ozark Trail brand required 59 pounds of force to cut through a six penny nail.
- The Heart brand needed 67 pounds of force to cut through the nail.
- The Rover Tack brand needed 105 pounds of force to cut through the nail.
- The Stanley brand needed 70 pounds of force to cut through the nail.
- The Mossy Oak brand needed 65 pounds of force to cut through the nail.
- The Gerber Suspension brand needed 61 pounds of force to cut through the nail.
- The DeWalt brand needed 78 pounds of force to cut through the nail.
- The Gonzo brand needed 129 pounds of force to cut through the nail.
- The Javelin brand needed 91 pounds of force to cut through the nail.
- The Leatherman Charge Plus brand needed 48 pounds of force to cut through the nail.
- The SOG brand needed 51 pounds of force to cut through the nail.
- The Victoria Knox brand needed 58 pounds of force to cut through the nail.
- The Gerber Gear brand needed 43 pounds of force to cut through the nail.
- The Leatherman Skeletool brand needed 60 pounds of force to cut through the nail.
From the test, it was evident that the Leatherman Charge Plus, Heart, SOG, Leatherman Skeletool, and Victoria Knox brands performed well in terms of wire cutter strength.
Strength Test: Phillips Screwdriver
The durability of a multitool’s screwdriver is essential, especially for tasks that require torque and pressure. We conducted a Phillips screwdriver strength test on various brands. Here are the results:
- The Ozark Trail brand performed fairly well, lasting until 48 inch-pounds before the screw came loose.
- The Heart brand performed better, lasting until 59 inch-pounds before the screw broke.
- The Rover Tack brand broke at 45 inch-pounds, rendering the screwdriver unusable.
- The Stanley brand broke at 51 inch-pounds, damaging the screwdriver.
- The Mossy Oak brand lasted until 95 inch-pounds before the screw broke. However, its screwdriver bit can be easily replaced, unlike some other brands.
From the test, it was evident that the Mossy Oak brand, along with the Javelin, Leatherman Skeletool, Heart, SOG, Leatherman Charge Plus, and Victoria Knox brands, outlasted the screw and did not experience any visible damage to the Phillips head screwdriver.
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Strength Test: Flathead Screwdriver
Similar to the Phillips screwdriver strength test, we also conducted a strength test on the flathead screwdriver functionality of various multitool brands. Here are the results:
- The Ozark Trail brand broke at 37 inch-pounds, resulting in a badly bent screwdriver.
- The Heart brand broke at 34 inch-pounds, also resulting in a badly bent screwdriver.
- The Rover Tack brand broke at 44 inch-pounds, causing damage to the screwdriver.
- The Stanley brand broke at 55 inch-pounds, experiencing damage to the screwdriver.
- The Mossy Oak brand broke at 82 inch-pounds, resulting in some damage to the screwdriver bit. However, the bit can be easily replaced.
- The Gerber Suspension brand broke at 74 inch-pounds, with the screwdriver experiencing some wear and tear.
- The DeWalt brand refused to let go and made it to 82 pounds before breaking. The screwdriver experienced significant damage.
- The Gonzo brand broke at 77 inch-pounds, resulting in damage to the bit and rendering the multitool broken.
- The Leatherman Skeletool broke at 14 inch-pounds. Unfortunately, the bit broke, and the multitool was already damaged.
- The SOG brand broke at 46 inch-pounds, with the screwdriver blade badly bent.
- The Victoria Knox brand broke at 60 inch-pounds, but it was in better condition than most other brands, with only a small bend.
- The Gerber Gear brand broke at 31 inch-pounds, with the blade lock being damaged.
- The Leatherman Charge Plus broke at 55 inch-pounds, with the blade lock being bent badly.
From the test, it was evident that the Mossy Oak, Javelin, Leatherman Skeletool, Heart, SOG, Leatherman Charge Plus, and Victoria Knox brands outlasted the screw and did not experience any visible damage to the flathead screwdriver.
Blade Fold Pressure Test
The blade fold pressure test measures the amount of pressure needed to fold the blade. This test helps determine the strength and stability of the blade lock mechanism. Here are the results:
- The Ozark Trail brand folded the blade at 4 pounds of pressure, as it does not have a blade lock mechanism.
- The Heart brand folded the blade at 2 pounds of pressure, also without a blade lock mechanism.
- The Rover Tack brand’s blade lock gave up at 29 pounds, with part of the mechanism breaking off.
- The Stanley brand folded the blade at 2 pounds of pressure, again without a blade lock.
- The Mossy Oak brand’s blade lock gave up at 17 pounds, with no visible damage to the mechanism.
- The Gerber Suspension brand let go at 26 pounds, with the blade lock experiencing wear and tear.
- The DeWalt brand refused to let go and made it to 82 pounds, but the blade lock mechanism experienced significant damage and no longer works.
- The Gonzo brand performed well at 77 pounds, with the blade lock still working but showing wear and tear.
- The Leatherman Skeletool let go at 22 pounds, with the blade lock mechanism suffering a lot of damage.
- The SOG brand performed well at 57 pounds, but the blade lock mechanism did not survive the test.
- The Victoria Knox brand performed nearly as well as the SOG at 55 pounds, with the blade lock no longer functioning.
- The Gerber Gear brand let go at 31 pounds, with the blade lock being damaged.
- The Leatherman Charge Plus let go at 55 pounds, with the blade lock bending badly.
From the test, it was evident that the Mossy Oak, Javelin, Leatherman Skeletool, Heart, SOG, Leatherman Charge Plus, and Victoria Knox brands outlasted the pressure and did not experience any visible damage to the blade lock mechanism.
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Rust Test
To test the corrosion resistance of multitool brands, we applied a rusting agent. The results are as follows:
- The Ozark Trail and most other tools showed significant rust when exposed to the rusting agent.
- The Mossy Oak and Gerber Gear performed better in terms of corrosion resistance.
- The Leatherman Charge Plus had less rust compared to other brands in the test.
It’s important to note that regular maintenance and proper care can help prolong the lifespan and corrosion resistance of multitool brands.
Conclusion
Based on the comprehensive tests conducted, certain multitool brands stood out in terms of overall performance and value. The Leatherman Skeletool, Heart, SOG PowerAccess, and Gerber Gear performed well in various tests, showcasing their durability, sharpness, and reliability.
It is important to consider the specific needs and preferences when selecting a multitool. While some brands may excel in certain areas, others may offer better value or comfort. Viewer suggestions for future videos are always welcome, as they contribute to creating a more comprehensive and informative testing environment.
Remember that investing in a high-quality multitool with premium steel and strong blade locks is essential for long-lasting performance. Regular maintenance and proper care can also help prolong the lifespan and functionality of the multitool.
Overall, the choice of the best multitool depends on individual preferences, intended use, and budget. Consider the specific features, durability, and functionality that align with your needs to make the best decision.
