/// Leatherman Charge TTi Multi-Tool : Review
This is the “Cadillac” of multi-tools. The Charge TTi is the best money can buy and it does cost a lot of money, but it’s worth every damn penny.
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Leatherman, or specifically its founder and CEO, Timothy S. Leatherman, is the father of the multi-tool. Starting with his very first one, The Pocket Survival Tool.
After more than 30 years of progressively innovating and producing the best multi-tools available, their Charge TTi($) has become the pinnacle since its introduction in 2007. For review is the second and latest generation.
Now there are more than a hundred reputable models of this type of multi-tool to choose from and maybe a half dozen that can come close to the level of the Charge TTi. Not surprisingly, the Wave at about $80 less, also by Leatherman, is arguably the closest competitor.
I own many multi-tools but this is my first Leatherman. From my 6 months with the Charge TTi, I don’t see myself getting another multi-tool for at least a decade.
Furthermore, I won’t have to carry multiple multi-tools either as part of my EDC / vagabonding packing list.
At $170, this is one of the most expensive multi-tools in the market but you really get what you pay for beyond the 19 tools, bit kit and sheath this device is loaded with.
Made in the USA with exotic materials and craftsmanship nearly on par with high-end knives, the Charge TTi looks like a beauty and works like a beast.
The Tools of The Leatherman Charge TTi ///
Multi-Pliers //
S30V Blade Knife //
Spring-Action Scissors //
Small Bit Driver //
Opener + Wire Stripper //
Serrated Knife + Hook //
Diamond + Coarse File //
Full Saw Blade //
Screwdriver + Pry //
Ruler 8 in + 19 cm //
Pocket Clip //
Large Bit Driver Kit //
The Leatherman Charge TTi’s($) build is tank solid with razor sharp fit and finishes, a rarity in any hard-use tool.
Another rarity is striking aesthetics. A tool has no need being handsome, but this is – with function. The sculpted and textured titanium handles makes sure of that.
Being easy on the eyes is a nice bonus but it’s how it feels in the hands when in use that brings the scales together, not to mention shaving some weight off.
That blade. A major selling point for the Charge TTi, as it should be. One of the original “super steels”, Crucible’s S30V stainless steel is still one of the finest blade metals around and overkill to put in on a multi-tool. But then again, when it comes to tools, there’s no such thing as overkill.
Crucial vs Charge TTi($) vs PowerAssist
The Charge TTi($) comes with rather a nylon or leather sheath. Mine came with the latter and it’s actually quite nice for belt EDC but I won’t be using it. It’s the 6 piece bit kit w/ holder that really interested me.
This comes in real handy with the main bit driver, although the small bit driver does not come with additional bits.
Furthering the premium features of this high-end multi-tool is the 5-in-1 pliers; needlenose, standard, wire cutter, hard wire cutter and even a crimper.
All the other tools work well, are constructed flawlessly, deploy smoothly and lock into active position – including the pliers. This greatly increases user safety and performance. In addition, every tool can be accessed and deployed with single-hand operation, with practice.
As mentioned earlier, the included sheath works fine but the Charge TTi’s on-the-fly instantly removable pocket clip (or lanyard ring) is how I’ve been equipping it.
Made in The United States // 8.89 Ounces / 252 Grams // Closed Length: 4 Inches // Solid Titanium Handles // S30V Blade: 2.9 Inches
This is by far the best and most useful multi-tool I have ever used and it’ll probably be the same for you.
Leatherman Charge TTi /// $170
I’ve had mine for 5 years, use it almost everyday and it’s still got way more years left than i do lol. Great tool.
Love my Leatherman Wave, don’t need an update but the Charge TTI looks very tempting
Best multi tool period. Worth every penny.
Been eyeing this one for a while, a bit costly but perhaps its worth the premium price? That s30v blade though.
Got mine as soon as it got on the market, it’s actually the Charge XTi. Love it. have used it for so many projects and it has always covered my needs. worth the investment!
This is the one time that I must disagree with you brother. The fact that the TTI wire cutters are not replaceable is a deal breaker for me. True, the S30v, is The Metal of The Gods. I am content with 420HC. Which leads me to saying The Surge all day, YUT! As always sir, great quick read and I look forward to another installment. Have a great day, Semper Fidelis brother.
Wow, noticed that the MSRP is the same as retail, can’t find it cheaper than $170. Says a lot about the Charge tti’s awesomeness. But i think i’ll settle for the Wave, almost half the price!
The only thing missing is the spring-assist in the pliers. Gerber has had it and make use so much easier. Their patent ended and Leatherman is doing it in their newer models. Hopefully they will add it to this one soon
@Orlando, true it is one thing missing. I did not know that Gerber’s Pat. Ended. That is sweet news. I still wouldn’t pay the additional charge for the TTi. I just cant see the value. The Surge is still an OUTSTANDING piece of kit. I would jump all over a Surge with assisted pliers (replaceable cutters of course) and a spring assisted main blade.
Just received mine from Amazon per your review, it’s almost too beautiful for a multi-tool lol… but this thing is tough as nails (obviously), now i find myself looking for excuses to fix things.