With a birthday coming up I figure I'll hit the kids up for a good multi-tool. I reckon that for general yacht stuff, I don't need a huge range of overly-clever stuff. I just need the basics, but in an easy-to-use salt-water tolerant package.
Something actually targetted towards sailors would be great if such exists.
My knowledge doesn't extend past my Swiss Army Knife, so any recommendations based on your actual experience would be appreciated.
Cheers, Graeme
I would look at one of the Spyderco blades. Especially the serrated edged models. One hand opening and the serrated edge will slice through a tug rope if you had use it for that. I have a couple of Spyderco Mariners which I am not sure if they make anymore but its a excellent cutting tool for any material. Because of the serrated edge you can butcher large fish very easily.
I am not impressed with the limited utility of multitools especially for sailing, I would prefer proper versions of whatever tools thats on a multitool. One of the issues with multitools assuming you going to use it as a multifunction tool kit is that you can never torque things up like you can with full size tool. To me this just puts your vessel at risk not having the ability to tighten things properly, things like hose clamps, shackless etc etc. The other thing with multitools is the weight and because of its weight its bound to end up overboard because its such a clumsy tool. I have one in my vehicle for camping/4wd etc but will not have one on my boat.
Hi Gramae
Have you held a real Leatherman?
A bit heavy. Not what you would call ergonomic as in it is not moulded to fit in your hand.
However, when you open it the precision and smoothness of its operation tells you that it is real quality.
I say ask you kids for a genuine old fashioned leatherman.
I have a pouch next to the companionway with handy tools in it, The Letherman sits in there and gets used.
(The green bag is the headlamp)
If any one is thinking of a Leatherman Skeletool I found it extremely useful except for the quality of the stainless. It began to tarnish and cease up so I returned it under warranty with a suggestion to improve the material quality.
They sent me a new one which I wash in fresh water and lubricate regularly. Its a great tool but be warned regarding Leatherman stainless quality.
The warranty aspect is great too
