As it is well known that I really like the Center-Drive and really dislike the OHT, I am going to keep my opinions out of it, and just point out the facts and score objectively, so that each of you can decide what would work best for you.
PART 1- Tale of the Tape
Gerber Center-Drive-
 |
 |
 |
 |
Leatherman One Hand Tool-
 |
 |
 |
 |
Center-Drive:
MSRP: $119.00 - $132.00 depending on bit set, bit set model as tested is $132.00
Weight: 280.4g
Length: 120.69mm
Width: 48.29mm
Depth: 24.08mm
Number of functions: 16
OHT:
MSRP: $79.95-$89.95 depending on color, Coyote Tan model as tested is $89.95
Weight: 274.1mm
Length: 115.94mm
Width: 47.13mm
Depth: 21.55
Number of functions: 16
Score:
Leatherman 3
Gerber 0
Part 1 Summary:
Leatherman wins on size, weight and price, giving them three points to Gerber's zero. The size was not a major win for Leatherman, as in some cases it was less than half of a millimeter smaller, but it was overall smaller. The OHT was also lighter by 6.3g, which for those that aren't familiar with grams, is about 1/5oz, or the weight of a quarter. Still, a narrow victory is still a victory.
With regards to pricing, the Center-Drive in this test is the top of the range model, which includes the bit set and larger sheath. However, as the sheaths and bit sets will not be part of this testing at any level, the Center Drive could be reduced to the cheaper version, as the tool itself is identical. Even comparing the cheapest version of the Center-Drive to the top of the range OHT (which is also the case), the OHT still wins by a wide margin of roughly $29 in the difference.
Have any comments or insights to share? This competition is also LIVE on our forum!
Stay tuned for Part 2 tomorrow!
