u/TransientExpat

I found this group to be quite helpful so figured I’d give back to anyone needing some comparison photos of these guys. This may be one of the geekier posts I’ve made!

The Victorinox Spirit MX clip feels like next level craftsmanship and precision, and will be a regular/daily in my pocket for sure. I do wish the blade was longer and that it has a serrated blade. The closed opening of all extraneous tools seems like what all of these should do and the LM that don’t feel a step behind. I think I prefer the file on the LM but happy to be proven wrong.

The only downside is it almost feels too nice and polished to beat on it despite the warranty. Funny enough I randomly just found a Huntsman that was gifted 15 yrs ago and never used so that needs to be put to use as well.

The Charge will likely be in my bag due to the bit extension ability and overall feel. It’s obviously nearly identical to the Wave+ but as I got both on sale, I think I’ll rate the Charge a little higher with better steel on the primary blade and the gut hook. The titanium is interesting aesthetically and perhaps for grip but just adds additional thickness. If you’re on the fence don’t choose this over the Wave for perceived reduced weight imo. It is a bit chonky in depth vs Spirit MX.

I can see why the Wave+ is the bestseller. It just does everything well. The scissors on Wave/Charge are smaller than I’d expect. In my case the Charge matches and exceeds the Wave for a very similar cost since I got the Charge on sale. Had I not got them for a similar price I wouldn’t pay the original price over the Wave.

The Surge is a beast and if I was working in a trade I’d keep it. But the weight and size means it’d likely stay in a bag and if I’m at home, I’ll reach for larger tools anyway. Love the replaceable T-shank blade. I can see adding this if I find one on sale. There’s something reassuring about its size and heft.

I welcome any input if you have experience using any of them and if you’d make different choices. Note - I didn’t consider the Arc due to the cost, nor the Swiss Tool full size series due to the size. At the end of the day, I need these to be portable for my needs or I know I’ll leave them at home.

Primary uses: DIY, homeowner stuff, daily carry, IT, biking, hiking, and just generally appreciate well made tools and equipment.

Is anymore familiar with the Coast MT400? Seems like a decent price for a life time warranty. Not seeing anything about it on Reddit. REI sells it, and Amazon at about double this price.

I get that it won’t be equivalent to LM or Victorinox.

What are your thoughts on this change? Does it feel like a beneficial change for most or will it result in a more restrictive environment with the limits?

Hi everyone.

I was researching the differences between the M12 Fuel and the M18 Fuel Hackzall, and while many folks seem to recommend the M18, I just wanted to share my experience using the M12 with the 12 in carbide pruning blade.

I was able to take out a large mature rhododendron tree with roots of between 6”and 7“ in about 5 to 10 min for all three. I have no experience with the M18 (and this was my first time using the Hackzall), so I can't comment on the differences. I just wanted to share that, for a 6 to 7 in diameter root, this handled the job well enough. If I was doing this more regularly, I’d prefer the hatchet or a corded reciprocating saw I think.

Most of what I'll be doing would be less demanding, so perhaps this tool is sufficient for my needs. I don't doubt that the M18 would be better for a lot of people, especially if it's your profession. If an M18 deal comes out closer to Father's Day, I would consider giving it a try, but for now I just thought I would share because I found it very helpful to hear all of your thoughts on posts like this.