Eaglescout,

I would like to begin by saying that I don't chime in much around here. Mostly I defer to those more knowledgeable than I. Like many, I am here to learn. I reserve my posts for something that I feel I can offer a unique opinion on.

You brought up some interesting points. And while I agree that the new leathermans are a bit out of the norm from what I've come to expect form leatherman, their still a leatherman. What I've come to expect from leatherman: quality. I don't think that they make "fecal matter" at all. I have come to love this company and trust in their craftsmanship.

I agree with you that the Squirt and Juice models are out of thier norm, and I personally don't use either. (I should note that I do own a Juice) I may not EDC them, but they are nonetheless good products and do fit the need a large populus. Like the claws on a hammer, just becuse you're not using them doesn't mean they aren't handy.

In conclusion, I haven't actually laid my hands on these new models. (has anyone?) But from the reviews I've read it seems that Leatherman has raised the bar again. I look forward to even higher quality and ruggedness from Leatherman.

I should also note that my main EDC knife is a Benchmade Osborne 940 with the 154CM Steel. I can vouch for the edge retention and rugged durability from experience. I welcome this improvement from Leatherman.

--Luke