It would be easy to call it a day with “don’t fix what isn’t broken” when it comes to Leatherman’s tools. After all, they’ve got iconic and beloved models in their stable (many of which got it right the first time they released decades ago), build quality to last a lifetime, and the tools to cover nearly every imaginable task. But taking a look at their new FREE series, Leatherman definitely didn’t take the easy route. Designed to be an overhaul and evolution of their EDC multi-tools, the series—led by the flagship FREE P4—comes with functionality, durability, and a thoughtful new approach to usability that’s never been seen before. The FREE series re-imagines how you use your everyday multi-tool, with the feature-packed P4 leading the way with a versatility you never knew you were missing.
Out of the box, the FREE P4 immediately makes a statement that this isn’t the Leatherman you’re used to. The sleek, futuristic design offers a modern contrast to the more traditional style of its predecessors, with a smooth, streamlined silhouette especially when closed. But as much as the FREE P4 is the wave of the future, it also takes influences from the tools of the past. When deployed, the P4 still resembles the classic design with pliers at the pivot and tools that deploy from its handles, but it’s how everything deploys that sets the P4 and the rest of the FREE series apart. To spoil the magic a bit: with magnets.
Baked into the entire design of the tool is a new magnetic architecture responsible for the fluidity and ease of use of the series. These magnets are strong enough to keep everything closed and secure, while equally pliable enough to make tool deployment smooth with just the right amount of resistance. They also work together with a cam lock system in a balance of mechanical and magnetic forces that improve usability, such as securing tools when not in use or locking them back into closed positions on their own. The pliers deploy with an action akin to a butterfly knife once you initially separate the handles, while the rest of its tools pivot out with a series of tabs that resemble a front-flipper deployment. This is done by rolling your thumb on the tools’ exposed tabs, which also works well on the job while wearing gloves.
Speaking of tools, the P4 comes with some of the best Leatherman has to offer, and the most out of the entire FREE line. 21 functions reside in its handles, standing toe to toe with some of their other flagship models. This includes the iconic needlenose/regular pliers, replaceable 154CM hard wire cutters, a complement of drivers and openers, and assorted useful tools like spring-action scissors, a file, and an awl. For cutting, you get a full array of slicers, from a box cutter to your choice of 3 420HC blades (plain, serrated, and a saw). All the tools deploy with the FREE’s signature magnetic system paired with what Leatherman calls “epic haptic” clicks which give a more tactile experience when using the P4. The asymmetric design when closed also allows complete operation by touch and feel alone. And when it’s time to move, the P4 still manages to carry well with its included lanyard attachment point or sheath, in a familiar form factor that weighs 8.6 ounces (one ounce more to account for the 2 extra blades from the P2 we reviewed) with a closed length of 4.25 inches.
The Leatherman FREE P4 has its eyes squarely on the future of multi-tools, pushing design and usability forward while learning the best lessons from the past. Whether you’re a working professional looking to streamline your workflow or a new EDCer covering your bases with the cutting edge of multi-tools, the P4 and the rest of the FREE series are the tools to set you free. Pick up the P4 from Leatherman at the link below.
This is a sponsored post presented by Leatherman.
