Leatherman OHT Multitool

For the first attempt at this design (formerly Gerber), it's not too bad.

So far the OHT has been a mixed bag in the online reviews that I've read. I was hesitant after reading them. After actually handling it, I'm more comfortable with my purchase.

I will say this, the multi-tool is a fine piece and will get the job done, but overall, it's not quite up to the build quality standards I've come to expect from Leatherman (based on the Wave that I also own). The reasons being, the outer skins of the tool are very thin, if you can find one on display somewhere you will see. They appear to be stamped aluminum I'm guessing.

Also the movement when the tools open isn't as refined and fluid as on my Wave. I'm not sure how the steel compared between those two models either, but the OHT has very visible grooves from grinding on some of the tools. It's also very heavy, heavier than my Wave even...I didn't think that was possible, I think it's a bit wider too.

The spring loaded pliers are very nice and the mechanism for deploying them works very well. The other blades and screwdrivers are all well made but still lack the finish and overall design that other Leatherman models have.  The knife blades are very short and some of the screwdrivers are so short they're virtually useless. It lacks scissors, but I already knew that going in. Also no option for the bit kit. 

I got this to carry on the trail and for that it works just fine. I also like the addition of the rescue hook; I read one review where they complained about its dullness, but I had no issue slicing through some extra webbing I had lying around.

I'm not not recommending it, but I would try one out at a store before you buy it, or buy it from REI with their fantastic return policy. I'm enjoying it so far, and for the first time Leatherman has tried using this mechanism, it's not too shabby.  I can't wait until they refine this a bit more with input from actual owners.

A heavy item in my pack, but historically the tool has been useful. One of the 10 Essentials to "Be Prepared."

Standing in the forrest in Colorado at 10,000 feet we had to make a decision. Three members of our crew developed high altitude sickness overnight. Our backup keys to the rental car were wired together and needed to be separated so we could send the ill hikers back to a lower altitude to recover and rejoin us a few days later. In case something else happened we needed the extra key so we could retrieve the car from our remote pickup spot. 

My multitool cut the wire and allowed us to proceed with the trip.  So the tool is actually now part of our crew gear and has come in useful many times over the years.  

Background

Not a cheap tool and very reliable.

I love this tool. Have fun.