Multi-bladed knives were known even in ancient Rome, but Tim Leatherman invented the pliers-based multi-tools that first went on sale in 1983, and have since become ubiquitous. I found an example of his first tool for sale at a gun show a few years ago, and thought it might be of interest.
Going for an old-timey photo look here with the editing.
This isn't the very first generation. The only inscriptions on the outside are "Leatherman Tool," and "Portland, OR." Date codes apparently started in 1992, and inside the handles I see one marked 0997 and the other 1097, indicating those parts were made in September and October of 1997. My specific example is therefore approaching 25 years old as of this post, and still going strong. The knockoffs from that era are doubtless all rusted away, tossed in the trash, or forgotten in some dusty box of unneeded tools. The real deal lasts the test of time.
This is just a bad snapshot.
This multi-tool is 4"x1"x1/2" when closed, and includes the following:
- needle-nose pliers with inset standard jaws
- wire cutter with upgraded hard wire notch
- can opener
- Phillips screwdriver
- small flat screwdriver
- file
- knife
- awl
- medium flat screwdriver
- large flat screwdriver
- lanyard loop
- ruler (metric and inch)
This was an amazing tool when it launched, and while there was a lot of room for improvement in subsequent releases, this still isn't really deficient in any way. If I have any complaints, it is just that the blade and other tools do not positively lock open. Instead, part of the folded metal handles just serve as a spring giving tension to a flat surface on the tool when open. Elegant and simple, if slightly less safe than a liner lock.
You can buy an autographed re-release for $100. Unless this specific form factor really tickles your fancy, get the Wave with a lot more tools and liner lock blades for just $10 more, the still significantly better equipped Bond for a mere $60 in comparison, or one of the other tools that fits your individual needs. That, or do what I did and browse gun shows, pawn shops, flea markets, garage sales, and other sources of old stuff for an original.
This will remain a part of my tackle box for years to come. What multi-tool is in your pocket, on your belt, part of your fishing gear, or an emergency kit essential?
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