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With multitools gaining fast popularity and offering amazing tools mobility, all the prominent names are always striving to deliver better products. Such is the case with Leatherman. It is the leading name in multitools and it is always working to make its products more efficient and easier to use. Leatherman proceeds to be creative and constantly retains the high-quality level people have come to expect from the brand.
In this article, we will be discussing two of Leatherman’s popular releases: Leatherman Surge vs Leatherman OHT. So, if you are ready for the showdown and want to find out more then keep reading.
Leatherman Surge vs OHT – Overview
Leatherman Surge
The Leatherman Surge is easily a favorite of many for its great durability and range of multi-tool options. It is among the biggest multi-tools Leatherman produced. It is a tad larger than the traditional multi-tools that some people might be accustomed to; however, it is significantly sturdier.
You do not have to fold one to access the other tool. Moreover, the Surge is capable of having around four tools out at the same time. It is a tremendous multi-tool for any fixtures, camping, etc.
Heavy Duty Multitool
Something that sets apart the Surge from the bunch is its heavy build at 0.9 pounds. This product’s build ensures it can stand abuse and remain with you long term. It is bigger and you can get a good feel of the product when you hold it in your hand. Its blades are also sharp and strong with robust wire cutters.
21 Tools
Offering a broad range of 21 tools, the Surge is ready to take care of all your needs. It encompasses:
- Regular and needle nose pliers
- 154 CM replaceable wire cutters and 154 CM replaceable hardwire cutters
- Stranded wire cutters
- Electrical crimper and wore stripper
- 420 HC knife and serrated knife
- Saw and 8-inch ruler
- Spring-action scissors
- Large bit driver
- Awl with thread loop
- Wood/metal file and file with diamond coating
- Can and bottle opener
- Blade exchanger
- Small and large screwdrivers
Ergonomic design
Its smart design lets you access the pliers by opening the handles out, as the grip is incredibly impressive thanks to the milled jaws. Taking out the knives is another quick task with one quick thumb flick to open both knives.
Leatherman OHT
The OHT is Leatherman’s only 100% one-handed tool weighing 0.75 pounds developed to solve the dilemma of multitools that only allow one-hand opening of some of their tools, either the blades or pliers. However, the OHT multitool is here to offer one-handed functionality for all tools. It became a favorite of many in no time and Leatherman had to up the supply.
Its rugged durability is ideal and it was made with military in mind. Leatherman also offers this product in three shades: black, silver, and coyote tan.
16 Tools in One
What makes a multi-tool special is how many tools it offers and its diversity. The OHT features 16 tools with a full locking feature to prevent injuries. These tools include:
- Spring-action needle nose and regular pliers
- Spring-action 164CM and 154CM hard-wire cutters (replaceable)
- 420HC knife and serrated knife
- Saw
- Strap cutter
- Wrench
- Can and bottle opener
- Oxygen tank wrench
- Screwdrivers in larger, medium, small and Philips
- Cleaning rod
- Lanyard ring
Imprints on Handle
A unique trait of the OHT is how it gives you maximum access ease no matter the situation. You do not need to open all tools to understand which part houses what tools.
There are tool images imprinted on the handle so you can access whichever tool you want in a blink.
Appropriate Build
The OHT’s build is of appropriate length and weight so you can easily strap it on your belt and carry it around with you anywhere. You will not feel its weight much as it will not hinder your mobility or feel bulky. The makers designed this for military and EMT responders so portability is at the core of OHT’s design.
Leatherman Surge vs OHT – The Comparison
Now it’s time to do a showdown of Leather Surge vs OHT. Although both the tools are not much far off in weight and structure, they still differ considerably in performance. Let’s discuss it further.
Build- Heavy Duty vs Lightweight
The Surge’s designed for heavy usage so its tools are bigger and heavier and it can take some abuse and undergo force. However, the OHT is designed to be smaller and its usage is ideal for lighter tasks. You cannot put too much force on it otherwise it could easily bend and this will affect the performance. Nonetheless, many people prefer carrying the OHT around for it is much lighter than the Surge as the latter has excessive weight.
Tools Range-21 vs 16
In offering the tools, the Surge takes triumph at 21 diverse tools ready to sort out any situation while the OHT offers 16. Although both multitools offer the necessary tools, both have their distinctive aspects. OHT’s design was on military’s concept so it features some distinct tools like cleaning rod, oxygen tank and lanyard ring despite offering less amount. Moreover, it has spring-loaded pliers making usage easier.
Imprints vs Ergonomic Design
Design matters much in deducing the efficiency of a tool. The OHT features imprinted on its handles making it efficient for usage in the dark or emergency situations, whereas the Surge’s bigger build can also help you figure out the tools, but it can take some time to familiarize yourself. So here, OHT takes the lead in quick availability.
Conclusion
Leatherman remains a pioneer in designing and delivering some of the best multitools. Many people love this company for it always delivers quality no matter if the product is for heavy tasks or quick usage for first responders. We hope this article helps give you better insight into the Leatherman Surge and OHT and you can decide which one will suit you better. Both products have unique traits that are beneficial.
Hi, I’m Johnny, the chief editor at Svetools.com. Since I was a kid, DIY has been my thing – playing around with all sorts of tools, from power tools to classic wrenches. I started the Svetools blog to share my love for DIY and all things a house Handyman should know. Whether it’s product reviews or essential how-to’s articles, I cover it all. Need assistance or have a question? Hit me up using the details on our contact us page.