I used the regular Skeletool for 7 years at my job working at a garden centre. I had such muscle memory grabbing it from the holster that it took me a year or so to stop reaching for it when I had a box to open! I do have a few negatives that I'd love to see addressed in an 'upgrade' version. Firstly I never used the carabiner to clip onto anything, despite thinking I would when I bought it - I just used the included holster and failing that would have re-attached the pocket clip (I took it off). Secondly the pliers had a bit of a flex to them when used on anything too tough. Thirdly I managed to pinch my skin between the two 'arms' a few times and wish there was more gap to avoid that. Fourthly I feel like the bit driver could easily be enlarged to support regular sized bits, with extra bit storage in the mainly-unused carabiner area. I'd love to be able to carry decent Pozidrive, Philips, flat and hex bits in one EDC. Finally, I don't like the feel of the curved side when using the pliers - it looks cool but would feel better if it were a little shallower curve. Still. It served me well and is still looking great despite being used regularly 5 days a week for 7 years!

good quality video. Helped me decide on the CX version. Appreciate you taking the time to put the video up.

Thanks for the video! Best explanation of the differences I have found, cemented my decision.

I've had mine over 6yrs & it's still like new & I love it compared to all my other Leatherman Tools. Those broke in one way or another, I have the CX & I've used it many times in a pinch. Especially good because I use it in or around Saltwater, my deer feeders, etc. On the TX Coast 🤟

I don't need it at all, but I'm purchasing the CX =)

Thanks for the video! Helped me choose the right one for me.

I started w the Skeletool before I dove first into the Leatherman game and I couldn't be happier. Very handy!

Nice option with the blade upgrade. I also see I am not the only one with trashed screen doors; what the kids don't destroy, the dogs do.

Wife got me this for Christmas and I love it. Really didn't think I would but just days after Christmas I see myself using it a few times a day.

I too prefer the non-serrated blade.

@duc9139

3 жыл бұрын

good

@mickjager5974

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah I hate serrated knife blades. Just have never had many occasions where I feel like I needed one or cut well. Granted most are also not evenly angled on both sides so that can make them hard to cut straight with. And to me they are harder to sharpen. Yeah I know it can be done, but why when I don't really need it. A really sharp non-serrated blade does all I need to do with a knife. I also think the bottle openers almost all multi-tools have seems ridiculous. How many people drink beer in bottles that need an opener and is there another beverage that needs that type of opener? What about a cork screw like the old swiss army knives had? Where are those?

@jaredharris1970

2 жыл бұрын

@@mickjager5974 totally agree they should allow u to customize it when u order so if u don’t want bottle opener they will install another tool of your choice in it’s place

@mickjager5974

2 жыл бұрын

@@jaredharris1970 Actually I think Leatherman will let you build your own knife within reason. I didn't look in to it because I figured if I tried to get a non CX skeletool with a custom non-serrated blade it would cost as much if not more that just a Skeletool CX.

Excellent. That may be the basic multi tool I have been looking for.

Great review sir! You have a Radio DJ voice, comes across very clear and pleasant. Keep up the great reviews!

@pyrosmoak53

7 жыл бұрын

Kevin Myers I agree he could totally be a radio dj, or maybe even a news anchor

Nice review, brief. Straight to the point. Kudos!

Good video. Appreciate the brevity and focus. I love my Skeletool.

@gideonstactical

7 жыл бұрын

Thanks, really appreciate it.

I've been carrying Leatherman for a while. I own two Skeletool CX and Freestyle CX...simplicity in both tools and very lightweight EDC. Can't go wrong with the 154cm blade. I also like it's a straight blade, and the bottle opener is a must for me.

@gideonstactical

7 жыл бұрын

Nice!

I took your advise and upgraded the blade. Thanks!

Great review! Leatherman really hit the sweet spot with this one. I got the CX for work and now I am EDCing this thing all of the time. The 154CM is really holding up to some hard use as well.

@gideonstactical

7 жыл бұрын

Sweet

Can't believe I haven't seen this before. I've been carrying a CX in my pocket or clipped to a belt loop, for the last few years, on a daily basis. One thing I never see anyone comment on, is the space between the 2 sides of the handle, when using the pliers. Using a pinch grip to control the force of the jaws, my fat fingers still fit, unlike my original Wave. Even outside of work, I probably use it several times a day. The other cool thing about the carabiner, it works great for hooking the lid of my camp pot to avoid burning my fingers. I sharpen the blade with wet/dry sandpaper & strop it with green compound. I find that it sharpens up quickly, no issues. I picked up an Ontario Blackbird, just because it was the same steel. Too bad I didn't care for the handle & sold it, soon thereafter.

Texas tool crafters makes a great Damascus replacement blade for the skeletool. very sharp and rigid. and it gives the tool a personalized touch. each blade is unique along with its own serial#.

Fix your screen door

@cristianoruggeri5719

5 жыл бұрын

Using the skeletool !

@username6265

5 жыл бұрын

@@cristianoruggeri5719 and Naked :)

@yaajfcomments7171

4 жыл бұрын

gideonstactical: Like and subscribe? Bully Maguire: You get your like when you FIX THIS DAMN DOOR!

@weworks7811

4 жыл бұрын

😆

@Peter..Griffin

Жыл бұрын

I find your comment rather shallow and pedantic.

I've had one of these for a few years and your assessment is spot on. This tool just works. I carry it every day at work.

@gideonstactical

7 жыл бұрын

Awesomeness glad to hear it!!

@MrSkroid101

7 жыл бұрын

What do you think of the new RX version?

@orionv.13

7 жыл бұрын

Blue Mountain Bushcraft and Outdoors I use mine for at home of on the town EDC tool

This was really helpful! Thank you :)

I love my skeletool cx. I use my knife more than anything else on it so being able to open the knife with one hand without unfolding the tool is a must. Plus i can't stand having things attached to my belt to catch on doors, seatbelts, equipment. Also not sure what an inch of serrated blade does for anyone other than create a sharpening nightmare.

Just repurchased a Skeletool - sublime green. Gave my first one away to a friend - don't plan on getting rid of this one.

Really dig your channel, personally while I like reviews, I LOVE prepping and ESC theory videos as well. Keep it up!

@gideonstactical

7 жыл бұрын

Thanks my friend.

Once I experienced the Super cutting power of the serrated blade of the tiny Gerber vise, I'll never carry a knife without AT LEAST part of the blade serrated. The speed with which that blade could cut thu thick rope, light strand copper wire compared to much larger straight blades blew my mind. If you ever need to cut leather or any rope fast, you'll see why of a a serrated blade. Hope Leatherman will go with standard hexagonal bits in future, instead of the weird flat, available-from-Leatherman-Only ones

@warweaponx6629

Жыл бұрын

You are 100% correct. Partial serrated is the way to go.

I have been EDC'ing the base Skeletool for about 10 years and have enjoyed the platform. The one thing that annoyed me was the combo blade, which I could never find just the straight blade for. I recently bought the Skeletool KB just to transplant the blade, it is still 420hc. For me 420hc gets the job done and is easier to field service.

@starlessgolightly

5 ай бұрын

We liked the 420hc too, We found the non serrated blade (154cm) a bit 'techy' to sharpen to a "razor" edge. The 420hc won't hold as "cute" of a 'Belly' but is still very lovely.

I just cant believe how long that blade keeps razor sharp, bought my cx few months ago and i never did more than a few stropes when new and its cutting like the first day forever!

The skeletool cx is the sweet spot. The blade quality is great for edc and like you have had both. The tool is so handy and i have found it does all i need daily! The tool is mainly used as a blade and having 154cm on board rocks?

Aaron thanks you had me make the jump to CX

I got a replacement 154CM blade from Amazon, it comes from Texas Toolcrafters. I can attest that it is the true CX blade. I have had more than 50 skeletools, original and CX, come through my shop and am still kicking myself for selling the plain edge stainless Skeletool that I had some months back. I liked them but they sell too well to try and hold on to one. I finally got a slightly scratched up stainless with a broken blade and replaced it with the 154CM I mentioned earlier. It is my EDC now and I love it.

Didn't know Tim Tebow did multi tool reviews. But I just bought the Skeletool (regular version), and hope the 420HC blade holds up. I was more enamored with the CX version for the 154cm, but for twice the money, I just wasn't willing, especially when I have a small collection of solid knives at my disposal. I got it mostly for the pliers and the driver (am planning on getting the extender and the extra bits). *edit*, plus I carry a Swisscard, which covers me when I need a small pair of scissors or tweezers.

Just ordered mine from their website 🙂 stoked

ill never retire my pocket knife, ill carry both. its a matter of selecting the proper clothing with enough pockets. the 511 pant jeans are great for this

Thanks for the information.

Thanks for your review and opinion 👍

Glad I saw this video. I have been thinking of getting one of these. I like that they are simple with just a blade, pliers, can& bottle opener & screw driver. I don't need anything else & don't need the size & weight in my pocket or pack. The blade on the CX sold me on that version. Like gideonstactical I am not a fan of serrated blades. Good blade upgrade option for owners of the original tool. Although I don't care for the proprietary driver bits & offset driving motion (yeah, I know about the new gerber) I will just go straight to the CX & be done with it.

I loved the standard skeletool so much I bought the CX and the RX.

I nonwork carry a CX also KB. There's a light hammer mod using a short bolt and nut that adds to the function.

Hey really like your channel thanks for the review i was in the market for multi tool. So glad i checked out your video. I am getting a Skeletool CX looks awesome and has all the tools i need for daily use. Keep the videos coming you do a awesome job.

@gideonstactical

7 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much, really glad you enjoyed the video and I hope the CX serves you well!

Good voice indeed and passionate speaking

Thanks Aaron!

Man your screen door is almost as messed up as mine. LOL

I dont like the black version because it looks scuffed up quite fast, so i got the standard version with the normal blade (it was available in this form here directly from leatherman). Best of both worlds…

Just got the Skeletool CX. The steel in the knife is fantastic- absolutely cuts like butthole. The way the pliers grips sit in your hand has great leverage and comfort.

@kelsl96

4 жыл бұрын

Cuts like butthole. That's how I like my knives!

I have the FDE/Black version I love it. I find the blade on multi tools good enough for most edc tasks.

@dubon811

7 жыл бұрын

ajfam871 I agree. From all my knives, the skeletool is the first and only partially serrated blade I own. I am surprisingly happy on how useful that blade is for cutting rope and fabrics I don't like serrations on my folders but it fits my needs perfectly in a multi tool. I carry the skeletool everywhere I go.

Always thought the Skeletool was pretty cool, but never bought one because of serrated blade. Thanks for the detailed review of CX version.

@gideonstactical

7 жыл бұрын

No problem, glad you enjoyed it.

I've owned the CX for about 2 year now. Great every day tool. I carry it in my front pocket every day. Daily routine; grab truck keys, cell, wallet and skeletool. It's become so routine I don't even know I'm grabbing it. You don't need those Swiss army knives that have 30 different little tools in it. Too bulky and you won't ever use even a third of the tools. This tool comes in handy all the time. Just yesterday I was changing one of my solar fence post lights on the deck. Some of screws were rusted and I could turn them out using my screw driver. Busted out the pliers from the skeletool and cranked the screws free. Not saying I'd want turn screws like that all day long but for a short little on the fly job like that. That's were it shines.

We totes had a similar get up only We named Ours and called them the 'Sugar Twins'; "Sweet like Sugar; Cruel like Cancer" ... anyhow both Zelda and Belle are both lost to time but the Skeletool platform is a phenomenal EDC. Like Wow!!! We used the split end of the Carabiner for an unspecified but PERFECT/CONSTANT purpose in Our former Trade. No complaints about the screwdriver or bit drives. We also used the bottle opener a ton as well. Similar to another video; We can vouch that the pliers are evidently a tad "light Use"; We lent Our original out and was returned to Us with the pliers broken but under circumstances We ourselves never would have used them for. So We actually didn't mind even carrying the original mangled. Neither of course are currently in Our possession but such a wonderfully bundled EDC.

serious very helpful review. is that carabin usable for something ?

Hi man great, and very useful video, thanks a lot

My original Skeletool was the CX model, but it had the half regular and half serrated blade. I carried and used it for several years. Then, I somehow lost it. Researching a replacement, I looked at other model Leatherman tools but found that the Skeletool was, for me, just about perfect. Fairly thin and lightweight and only having the tools that I actually need / use. So, I bought another Skeletool. This time, though, I just got the regular stainless steel model. Again, with the half regular half serrated blade. I prefer this blade. I don't see a real world difference in these two models, but I do see a price difference in them. Anyway, my new basic model Skeletool is perfect, for me, and I'll be more careful and, hopefully, own this one for the rest of my life.

@Sean-yd4mi

5 жыл бұрын

The Instructor the CX version has, by many standards, a better knife blade steel.

@J.C.21

Жыл бұрын

I agree. slightly better steel is not worth almost 50% more in price.

I have this multi tool and I loved it, and my only complaint for it is that I wish it had replaceable wire cutters.

How do you close it? I just purchased one I have it stock on pliers. Thanks for the informative video.

Nice. I'll buy one. I got the charge+ and it is amazing. But it's a bit thick and heavy on the clip in my pocket. This looks like what I'm after.

What's the name of the microphone that are you using? Great video

I just got the skeletool with damascus blade, very nice pattern but a little pricey to carry around on a daily basis. Love it though

You: works to save 1 oz on one side of your body because that means something or something me: carries 3 pound purse everywhere.

I just got the original on closeout at homedepot, $15 a piece!

So if you're going on a multi day hike, which Leatherman would be your first choice, considering size, weight, and tools included?

I have the wave. Soooo nice.

just picked up a skeletool original for $26 on an open box discount deal. wish i could find the 154cm PE blade upgrade

I just wanted to say that ever since I was 12 and received a permit (if you will) to cary a pocket knife. from boyscout group. I had carried a small pocket knife. Well as you know life is at times unpredictable, so you must be prepared. At our scout meeting that was our slogan "Be Prepared". So I always carried a pocket knife. when I began to get older I had other needs then just a well sharpened knife. so I looked around and have been liking around for a good multi tool that would work. with out having the bits slip of like the S.O.G. RC 1001 a few other off brands from Ace Hardware or Home Depot. that didn't really fit what I needed. so I looked at your video bought one, I be had it for a few weeks now and unlike it really just sits well with my daily uses. I just wanted too say thanx and I subscribed too your channel today.

Do you have any thoughts on the bladeless skeletool?

I wasn't aware that there were different models of the Skeletoll.

Definitely go for the cx just for the straight edge

I love mine, thanks for the tip on the replacement blades. I've carried mine daily for 5-6 years. when I carry mine I clip the carabiner to the top seam of my pants pocket, so it can't fall out on accident.

@J.sh_CDN

7 жыл бұрын

Same here for using the carabiner clip. Sure, it takes a bit more to get it out, but at least I know it is solid. Plus it looks a bit more discreet than a pocket clip

@dubon811

7 жыл бұрын

T Barr Nice tip on the carbiner. I will try it out tomorrow.

CX. My alltime favorite carry tool. The blade is far superior, both smooth and serrated models. Fits the hand perfectly, and the pocket... Even carry a red full serrated model clipped on my tree climbing harness

I really like your channel brother, thanks for sharing your thoughts on these! #subbed

THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS THE BLADE THATS ALL AND SOME FAUX CARBON FIBER THAT DOESNT DO MUCH BUT SHED MILLIGRAMS OF WEIGHT GET THE NORMAL ONE AND BUY THE CX BLADE ONLINE

The black coating makes the CX corrosion and rust resistant.

I have the original Skeletool and it has a plain blade. I'm still considering the upgrade in steel after multiple sharpenings.

Sweet tool would be a great gift but can’t justify buying one. I need pliers occasionally but scissors or saw much more frequently. My 20 year old classic LM (from when they had very few models - closest to the current Rebar) is a portable tool kit that lives in my day pack. Built like a tank and good as the day I got it. For hiking I changeout to the compact Juice CS4 (blue), a complete multi-tool that can handle anything on the trail. Neither of these are single hand openers but that’s not a requirement for me. These are tool kits that augment and don’t replace my EDC pocketknife or my Kephart in the woods.

A lot of people on you tube talks about the blade, but no one say anything about the pliers and wire cutters . I just snapped the pliers at work 2 weeks ago. I sent it to leatherman for repairs. Just wondering if the pliers is a upgrade on the cx ?. I have the regular skelettool.

Is the 154 carbon steel harder to sharpen than the 420? I have the original and thinking of upgrading. Thanks for the great videos!

Perfect skeletool model for the working man. Instead of a blade have a utility blade exchanger. Make the bit drivers a 1/4 so it can take any bits from hardware store. And just add replaceable cutters. Be an awesome build

Amazon no longer has the replacement cx blades and neither dose the the Leatherman website. Where can I get replacement blades for the cx?

Another hint for you guys. If you buy a Leatherman MUT bit kit, it will give you the small bit that COMBINES the Phillips head with the Flat head. If you replace that bit on your Skeletool, you now have the option to carry another style of bit inside the carrier (like the torx bit that fits an AR-15) without losing your screwdriver option. I use the CX every day as my EDC and love it!!

@gideonstactical

7 жыл бұрын

Awesome!!!

@EverymanGear

7 жыл бұрын

+gideonstactical. Also, while somewhat expensive… Here's your black specialty blade to put on the Skeletool. A Damascus blade from: txtoolcrafters.com/collections/addons-and-accessories

I want to replace my 10+ year well worn daily usage wave with the skeletool. Only tool I will really miss from the wave is the can opener. And the biner is sort of pointless I will carry it in a sheath anyway. Wish that biner was a can opener/ belt cutter instead.

What is the weight difference?

Es una multiherramienta muy completa... pero debería Mejorar la posición del destornillador,... el gancho con Clip limita el uso del destornillador

Love the video as I was just trying to make this decision the other day! would you consider also reviewing the Leatherman Crater 33T?

@gideonstactical

7 жыл бұрын

I did a long time ago. Good Little option

@hauntingzero

7 жыл бұрын

+gideonstactical oh I didn't see it but I will look for it now. thanks

does that black finish wear off ? I steer clear of painted stuff because it tends to look like shit within a few months where as mine will look the same as long as I own it because its just steel with no finish.

What does the "CX" stand for?

I have the signal and that's 7.56 Oz the skeletool is 5oz should I get the skeletool for EDC?

How easy is it to open the blade one-handed left-handed?

I bought this for my 11 y/o son who crossed over to the Boy Scouts and earned the right to carry a knife. I decided on this vs a fixed blade or a folder. Those will come later. At first he wasn't hip on it until a couple of adults commented on it. Then dad hadn't made such a bad decision in his eyes and it was cool for him to carry all the time. Nice quick precise review you did.

Damn Arron you should fix that screen door!

@MikeLeathen

2 жыл бұрын

This might help. kzread.info/dash/bejne/lmGI0sabdMfTftY.html

How can you tell one version from the other?

I bought an orignal Skeletool years ago and it came with a plain edge. They also have an orange RX model with 154cm and a glass breaker bit.

@gideonstactical

7 жыл бұрын

Interesting

@adhair

7 жыл бұрын

Yep--the CX always had the better steel, but they swapped which one had the serrations shortly after it debuted. There's also a Skeletool SX, which has a diamond file, and the Freestyle, which lacks the carabiner and bit driver. (Why they couldn't still include a bit driver is beyond me, but I know I'd carry a smaller Skeletool.)

Please do a review on the benchmade bushcrafter thanks! Keep up the good videos

@gideonstactical

7 жыл бұрын

I might

I am an expat from Philippines and I have a Leatherman bought in Saudi the only trouble is the knife and sheath broke d blade a wornout sheath want to bring it back to its original look it's a '90 model and d tool need advice

long overdue review bro! I can't wait to see your future videos with the skeletool cx

@gideonstactical

7 жыл бұрын

Thanks!

Good Show of what is an alternative way to carry what one needs. Thanks

@gideonstactical

7 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching.

@oldgeccko8207

7 жыл бұрын

I'd miss too much if I didn't :)

I still carry a ES4 on my key chain as a backup and because I'm forgetful and the keys are something that I never leave the house without (that's why there's a Nitecore Tube, a USB stick, a micro USB cable and a pill container with 100 bucks inside on my key chain). But yeah, the Skeletool CX has replaced my Charge TTi because it's so much easier to carry and I find that it has all the tools that I ever use really.

@JimLBon

7 жыл бұрын

karm42yn - I relegated the Charge to edc backpack duty a few years back and haven't regretted it. I still love and rarely pocket-carry my Charge but your point about he Skeletool is right on. I think it's the best tool ever made. Of any kind.

Is that a tactical screen on your sliding door? Seems like it had a bad day...... love the channel

@gideonstactical

7 жыл бұрын

Haha!

If they would've made either, the bits a normal shape or replaced the knife with a box blade, I'd buy it today.

unfortunately it seems you can no longer find the 154cm blade on amazon. I just picked up the skeletool because you can still get it at the home depot for only $30. Great bang for your buck.

@gideonstactical

7 жыл бұрын

Thanks is a good value!

The only difference from skeletool to skeletool. Is the material used on a knife blade isn't it.

So I'm needin to buy a CX lol In all honestly, I've been wanting to pick a Skeletool CX for aslong as I've been doing EDC stuff. And I've wanted to CX simply because of the 154cm steel. But now coming into the Fall and Winter, being able to not have to carry a multi tool plus blades would be super handy. Less chance of things going missing while out on the motorcycle lol Hope you and the family are doing well :)

@gideonstactical

7 жыл бұрын

Nice and good point about the bike. Life is good brother, still love the S1!