I am still relatively young and living in an apartment, so no room for an extensive amount of tools. Being that is the case, having a fully kitted out surge has been amazing in general, but specifically with the bit kits! Just yesterday I used a star bit to be a good Samaritan and fix up a license plate fitting for a neighbor in my apartment complex. First time in my life I've needed that specific size and shape of driver, but sure enough I was able to make it happen. Way more useful in my current life situation compared to trying to gather a full set of full-sized drivers to be used once or twice a year each.

Leatherman Signal + bit kit+bit extension has been my everyday go to for the past 2 years. Been hella reliable, and I don’t leave the house without them.

Supertool and Rebar all the way 👍

I like watching videos like this, where someone has figured out how to do something, and how to do it well. It's like looking at someone's homework 👍

The bit exchanger is probably the main reason I chose a Surge instead of the Swiss tool. Having it + the flattened bits it is a much more elegant compromise than what Victorinox did in my opinion. I also like the fact that you can keep a 01/02 Phillips and flip it to cover most of Phillips fasteners getting a bit better purchase than a 01-02 combination bit. Wish this bit came standard, since most tools already have more than one flat head tool.

As you mentioned, the knurled bit extension is very handy to spin the fastener into position before snugging down or loosening with the multitool. I just wish the bit extension could accommodate the small eye glass bit. Trying to start a small screw with such a small bit attached to the multitool is a lesson in frustration. If the bit extension accommodated this small bit there would be no need for the small bit holder on the multitool and this location could be used to add another tool. Maybe it is time to self modify the Wave.

I have the Leatherman tool adapter which works awesome and with that there is zero problems using regular 1/4" bits. Which is probably why they no longer make it😉

Thanks to you Ben, I carry the Surge, 42 bit kit set, 4 different saw blades, and the ratchet driver. That said, my primary driver is actually a Milwaukee Fastback, as it is faster to access, centered and longer. I LOVE having an almost complete kit with me at all times. A HUGE upgrade to my EDC.

There's a lot to mull over here, I never really thought about just how much these various systems come into play. Thanks for showing us the options that, I'm sure, many of us didn't realise were available ! I just wish the manufacturers of multi-tools would realise that these bits they sell should be of a more robust material to take-the-strain, so to speak, as they're not much use to anyone if the steel is too soft. Thanks again, Ben. Best wishes to you and yours. 🇬🇧

I love my Rebar and am crazy enough to have bought all of the bit cards for it for the sole purpose of having a customized bit/adapter card in my Leatherman sheath. lol The other two cards of extra bits live in my bag but basically everything I need for any quick fixes that don't require "real" tools is in my sheath which includes a Rovyvon Aurora Pro flashlight and Wiha precision bit driver kit (which I also bought two different models of for a custom bit setup lol). It's surprising the amount of people that don't know the Rebar has that bit card available. I've probably sold a few for Leatherman by pointing people in the right direction. lol

As I work on small electrical devices, so many screws are recessed, nothing beats a long reach Philips driver ! The one on my Victorinox Hercules is so damn handy !

Rebar all the way.

The bit exchanger is a nice concept but it seems like I always need the narrow long reach you get with the 3d tool.

I'm glad that you mention the possibility of loosing bits, that's the reason I have ST300 and Rebar. People usually talk about bit ex changer as an upgrade, but in reality it's a change of the advantages.

Ben, it's all very well to be showing how you can assemble multiple extensions, adapters and bits when they are all laid out neatly on your bench. You also show how you can put together adapters to hold ¼-inch bits. Where do you store these when you are out in the woods? It sounds like you need a toolbox of extra parts. In that case, you should pack all the dedicated tools you need, and leave the multitool at home. Maybe you need a folding table attached to your belt, so you can lay out all the bits and pieces so you can assemble them, (as you did in your presentation).

As an tech, I use bit exchanger tools but due to recessed screws, I grind the shank down to fit the bit exchanger of 4 x 1/4 inch drive 3" long bits. I carry PH1, PH2, T8 & T10 as these are by far the most common I encounter daily. This gives me long reaching, slim, high quality hardened bits so that I don't chowder screw heads all over the place, something the 2d leatherman bits excel at using the combo phillips bit. :-(

Based on a previous review of yours, I got those Wiha bits. I would recommend them as well. A bit more robust that the Leatherman proprietary bits. The bit exchanger models "inconvenience" of carrying other pieces IMHO is more than offset by the capability. But I recognize everybody's needs and preferences differ.

I love those wiha bits... I had a friend 3d print a knob for the ratchet driver to turn it into a stand alone mini screwdriver

Great video and extremely informative for us REBAR fans

The more I use my tools there I prefer the 3d philips and adapter

Great breakdown of the pros and cons. For me I go with the truss driver and an adapter for other bits for the sole reason that every time I encounter a recessed screw that a bit driver can't reach I feel like I'm carrying a useless tool, and the truss driver at least has a better chance of reaching. In the end I'm still carrying a bit driver holder but with only having a bit driver and not the dedicated truss driver I lose that advantage of reaching recessed screws.

The Leatherman rachet extension uses magnetic retention. Use can use any 3D bit.

The bit exchanger all the way for me, I'm Canadian and the default here is Robertson bits so I don't want to have to pull out the adapter every time for them. I leave the Robbie #2 in the exchanger cause that's what I'm using 90% of the time and have the rest as backup. What I really want is a double sided bit with Robbie #2 and Phillips #2, then I could probably leave the rest at home.

Ben, every Leatherman I have included the P4 benefits from my old school but modified ToolAdapter originally for original SuperTool. Wish Leatherman would bring it back. Would still be better than the Centerdrive. I use mine as a key fob.

Very helpful information. I’ve been carrying a Super tool 300 for years. I’m liking what I see with the Surge a lot. Especially all the accessory options. Thanks for your perspective and experience Ben.

I like the idea of keeping a bit kit in a bag, that is within reach, and using it with a Milwaukee Fastback 1505 (i am not sure if it will work together.) I also purchased a bit extender, so I have a screw driver in a pinch. I should find something that allows you to use a "T" style handle with the bit extender, that you can keep on a key chain. Like a pry bar with a cut out.

Very comprehensive analysis of the whole matter! But as for me, while I ideally would want to have my Surge, ratcheting bit extender, and 13 piece technician Wiha bit kit at all times, if I'm say, going to a place where it's unlikely that I will encounter a specialty screw drive and don't want to be hampered with my Nite-Ize Pock-Its (which I tote all those tools in) on my belt, (such as heading to the supermarket or going out to eat with family or friends), I will take along my Wave (Or the Super Tool 300 I just got) in a compact sheath and call it a day.

Hello, Ben - excellent overview - I agree that personal taste and need determine the kit used...I purchased a portable regular bit kit set that has a bit extender which fits in the Leatherman bit extender; giving me additional reach capability and use of regular bits...One can go "minimalist" or "whole - hog" or in - between...I noticed that I can put the bit kit set, flashlight, bit extender, New Wave(2nd Gen) and a Vicky SD in the old velcro pouch, something I think I could not do with the new snap...I definitely can't do it with the New Surge(2nd Gen), using the new snap...the Surge(with the wood saw in the tool), the sleeve(with the file and 2 Bosch metal saws), a flashlight and the bit extender...I was lucky to have a sheath that came with the bit kit set I bought for my Wave years ago - I put a selection of wood and metal saws sandwiched between the 2 bit kits giving me quite a bit of capability...so the possibilities are endless...

Another option would be a MT with a trust type Phillips, paired with a separate multi-bit folding screwdriver like the Klein 10 in 1. It has two nut driver sizes and 2 each of 5 bit types. It's a bit of a bulkier option but I think it calls for a little less fumbling.

This was an amazing video for reference! AAA+ for the information and delivery there of. Fantastic content!!!

I just got the Free P4 in the mail. I love my wave and surge but the new toy I think is my all time favorite. Can’t imagine packing anything else now. Not as “capable” as my others but the usability is best I’ve ever had. There’s the multi tool you could whip out to solve your problem, and then there’s the one you WANT to whip out for any old reason, and for me that’s the Free P4.

I love my bit exchanger. If I need extra length I have the bit extender.

When trying to loosen a Phillips #2 screw, nothing works like an actual phillips #2 bit. The worst part about Leatherman is the proprietary bits.

I’ve heard that the drive extender can fit perfectly over the Free P4 philips and prybar tools if you open them at the same time

Surge and super tool 300 and 300M yes 🙌

Softer material on the bit exchanger bits is a good thing. I’d rather have to replace a bit, than strip the screw and have to drill it out.

8:45 I prefer bits that twist over bits that shatter anyday!

Hey ben i love and carry Leatherman rebar now.

I’ve owned many of leathermans line. I wouldn’t buy anything without the bit exchanger, redid my free p2 and p4 with exchangers.

Never Mind I see later in the Video you referenced the Wiha Bits

Great review Ben. In my case the flats being working so gret with the Surge and Extension AND the ratchet. I bring the full package with many reach. IF 3D are needed it means I need the power tool or dedicated screw. The flats carry very handy and you have 40+ points to work. Because I carry a Veto Pro Pak with many Wera and Wiha compact sets of bits, screwdrivers, wrench, pliers, etc .... I'm not in a real need of any MT. However, it came very handy the Surge package for quick work and emergency calls for me. I deploy faster the flats bits and can do many work knowing that if I break the bit I have many on backup at my bag. If medium duty I use the 300 or Swisstool and same rethoric. I don't see the point of bring full bits and use them with the Surge. The handle it's so uncomfortable for long periods taking of fasteners, screws, etc... I think it's better having a ratchet like the Prestacycle with you for those situations. Ir a power tools. I see the MT as a backup or for quickjobs. Dedicated tools make the work faster and now this days you don't need to bring the WHOLE screwdriver squadron. Check the Wera kompakt so reliable. This is why I go towards the Swisstool sometimes, in just ine bag I have an arsenal. I carry the bagpack whatever I go, no need of power tools, no need of too many MT accessories, and do a great fast job. I will send you a picture to your email.

Super nice video!!!

Great analysis

I'm still carrying the pst with bit kit, why did they go backwards with squashed bits.....

I really like the exchanger and the "3d" truss Phillips... So I put both on my surge. So why not?

Fantastic video much appreciated thanks Ben 👍

Great article!

Thanks, you just saved me my money. Why would they make a hex bit that only grabbed on two corners? Will pass on these.

The bit exchanger is the only way to go if you’re a hunter/shooter and have scope rings that could get out of whack or loose when you’re in the field. Maybe it’s just better to have that particular Allen/torx key…but since I’m already carrying a multi tool?

Excellent, thank you!

I've been carrying a wave with all those bits for about a year now and it's been great. But recently I've found my self in situations when I need to loosen hex screws that are just too tight. I'm wondering if the rebar with the fixed Philips and extender will offer me more strength? Edit: I also thought I should add that although it may seem a disadvantage to have to always add then extender to the rebar in order to use extra bits, keep in mind that it can be just as time consuming to put the waves default piece somewhere safe when switching to one one of the extra pieces.

I prefer the 3D bits which is why I stick with SOG and can use any 1/4 bits that I already have. leatherman is overpriced I really don't want to pay $25-30 for a damn bit extender

Great video !! 👍

My favorite driver is the 3D Phillips on the rebar. No Leatherman crunch 3D Phillips 😞

i had the wave 2nd gen the wave 3rd gen silver and another 3rd gen silver and black model but sold them all cause it's so heavy as an edc tool the bit driver is so short so i picked up the rebar the only thing that i dont like on the rebar is that it doesnt have a pocket clip.

A good overview. 👍

I do wish Leatherman would just put a 1/4" adapter on the tool like Gerber and ozark trail has done

How do you carry the multi tool with the bits and standard driver

Does this bit kit extender can use on leatherman wingman?

How much pressure can the bit exchanger take I’ve just got my surge after my last got stolen out my car…..i was always apprehensive to use the bit exchanger too much for it looked like the weak link on the surge

The bit exchanger is a good concept but as you point out, it has poor reach. The bit extender is ridiculously priced, especially here in Europe.

Excellent points and very good video.

whats the small little loop for at the top of the bit holders?

5:17 what's the function of those rectangular side holes on the bit holder?

Do you have a way to measure the amount of torque you can apply before failure? Maybe attach it to a torque wrench somehow and see what the failure point is? I wonder if the driver, holders, tool pivots, or frame would be the failure point. 🤔

What is the exact part number of WIHA bit exchanger?

Hey Tex, a while back you made a video of using small Magnets to use in the Driver/Adapter, would that work for the Leatherman driver adapter on the Rebar? remove the catch ring, install the magnet, use the 2 ended bits that used with the multi Force?

How do you transport the wiha bits? I assume they don’t fit in the plastic holder that comes with the leather man bit kit

Great job and thank you for making this video. I had never heard of Wiha until I started watching your channel but now have some on order. Do you have any recommendations for a case to store all your multitools? I started out with a Rebar, and now have way too many Leathermans, Gerbers and SOGs!

I noticed you haven't tested the Gerber Suspension? It's my favorite budget multi-tool. I have several. Not the Suspension NXT. I have one and that is junk.

Is it possible to swap the truss Phillips screwdriver over to the surge??

Do you know at all if the truss style extention will fit on the older super tool 100 style phillips? From what I can see is no, it won't. But on the off chance that it did it would save me some money upgrading. I was thinking of trying to modify a truss style driver to fit on my old super tool but I cannot tell without looking at them in person side And I can't find anything online where someone has tried any real modding of the super tool 100.

This comment has absolutely nothing to do with the content of this video but...I have that exact same wedding ring lol.

Cool

alot of hot spots using Leatherman surge screwdriver. none using Victorinox swisstool.

Will those Wiha bits fit the ratchet driver?

Does the wiha bit set fit into the older style leatherman bit driver (one on your rebar here)?

Which retailers carry the Wiha bit sets? I don’t see them on Amazon.

Please,can I send you a picture of mine leatherman multy tool? So you can tell me more about it. Cause everywher I checked,well lets just say that one I have is really old and among the first ones made. That might be the case in my situacion!

I don't like soft metal bits. I will never want to buy or use those soft Leatherman driver bits !

Shave and a hair cut was two BITS. Now SOCKET to me! Sorry.......me bad!

All junk, proprietary options. No one no better than the next. I love leatherman's very high quality and tight construction, but this half assed implementation to get to an 1/4" bit, is a dumpster fire that should just be put out.

👍👍👍.🇺🇲🔪🌲🔥

Just too long.

Great article!