Leatherman 830850 Skeletool CX Multitool
A really great outdoor tool for those looking for something light yet functional. Weight and volume are kept to a minimum, making it ideal for almost any circumstance. There are a number of multitools of this sort available, but this is the best we have come across.
It’s capabilities are numerous, and it’s almost like an evolution of the pocket knife. Although the standard, everyday pocket knife can be useful, the Leatherman skeletool CX takes this to another level, going places that the ordinary pocket knife cannot!!
As well as the straight and serrated blade, the multitool also incorporates pliers (needlenose and pointed), wire cutters, carabiner, bottle opener, a pocket clip and a universal bit driver.
All of which folds down to a pocket-sized unit that fits snugly into your pocket or utility belt . The weight is kept to the minimum possible at just 5 ounces, and with the tungsten coating, its also aesthetically pleasing.
The universal bit driver can be used with the included bits, or you can purchase a separate set from Leatherman. To be honest, we found that the bits included with the tool itself were probably enough – if you are looking for a specialist tool then this is not it. If you are looking for something that will do the job in an emergency, then this is for you.
The CX Multitool wins over its brother (the cheaper stainless steel version) in a number of ways. Firstly, the blade is a lot stronger and edge resistant, and the blade is semi-serrated. The tungsten coating (whilst adding a sexy element) is also a protection against oxidization – useful if you need to use the tool in moist or damp conditions.
The pliers on the CX model are also a lot hardier, and the whole thing is a lot easier to carry around safely and securely with the addition of the carabiner.
A word of caution must be sounded regarding the knife blade though – it is VERY sharp! The multitool is obviously aimed at the more discernible user. However, because there is no safety catch on the blade itself, it could be a hazard if not used properly or left lying around.
As the tool was released by Leatherman as a flagship for the multitool market, you would expect it to be pretty good, and it is. It possesses the strength you would expect, and fits unobtrusively into a pocket, or clips nicely onto your belt.
Read more reviews.
