Although Leatherman multi-tools are generally lightweight, they also produce some heavier grade tools for when strength and durability win out over the need for lightness. The ST300 is one such tool. It weighs in at almost 10oz and is definitely aimed at the ‘working man’ (or woman).
Super strong
Leatherman says the pliers on the ST300 are the strongest they have ever made and they are certainly large and well-designed, allowing you to put a lot of pressure through them. The cutters for regular, hard and stranded wire are extremely effective and, being removable, they can be sharpened or replaced if necessary.
Tools
As always there are plenty of tools, 19 on this model, and they are all well built and very durable. Both blades are razor sharp 420HC steel with good edge retention and the tin and the bottle openers work great. Leatherman saws and files always function well, with the saw blade being particularly aggressive, and although the black finish does wear off in use, this has no detrimental effect on the tools.
There is a full complement of small, medium and large flat-headed screwdriver bits, but there is just the one Phillips type bit, which is a shame as they are the more common type of screwhead nowadays. That said, the three flat bits are great for levering and prying things out of small spaces!
The ruler along the handles is marked in both metric and imperial and is handy for checking those all-important group sizes on the range. A lanyard loop is also provided, so you can easily secure the tool to yourself while using it.
If 19 tools are not enough, the ST300 is compatible with the Leatherman removable bit driver kit, which adds an extender piece and five double-ended bits!
Grip and comfort
Despite its size, the ST300 is easy to use and the rolled edges on the handles make for a comfortable and effective grip. The sloped top on the handle as well as the shape of the jaws allow you to get the needle-nosed pliers into tight spaces, and you can get a lot of grip with them where needed. When the tools are deployed they lock very securely in place and when in the closed position, the handles allow you to use them effectively and comfortably for extended periods.
Conclusion
This is without a doubt one of the manufacturer’s strongest multi-tools, making it ideal for heavier jobs. The black oxide finish does wear but as long as the tool is cleaned and oiled regularly there is nothing to worry about. The replaceable cutters are a great feature but being so hard they are not likely to need replacing very often. Leatherman continues to produce very high-quality multi-tools and the ST300 is certainly a tool that will last.
Thanks to Mark Underwood and Gun Mart for writing and letting us share this review.