History: Freestyle

The Freestyle looks like, and functionally is "half" a Skeletool, designed to combat the awkwardness of the fixed carabiner at the end of the Skeletool. The Freestyle is an ultra convenient minimalist tool for when carrying a pocket knife just isn't enough.

Jaws

Plier jaws are larger than the Squirt P4 jaws, but considerably smaller than full size jaws found on the Kick or Charge. Best comparison would be with the Juice series of tools.

There are fine serrations near the nose, a gripping area below that, and a wire cutter area near the pivot. (Including a hard wire notch)

Shallow pockets are liberally scattered around the surface of the pliers. The effect on reducing weight is minimal, they are primarily for appearance.

Handles/Frame

Freestyle handles are very complex and made up of several components.

Finish is brushed stainless all over.

Like it's sibling, the Skeletool, there is no date coding on the Freestyle.

Blades and Tools

The only folding device on the Freestyle is its partially serrated locking knife blade. The blade measures 2-1/2" long. (63mm) It is made from 420HC stainless.

Locking Mechanism

The knife blade locks open via a standard liner lock.

Other Features

Removable pocket clip.

Sheath

Dimensions

• Length open= 5-1/4" (133mm)
• Length closed = 3-1/4" (86mm)
• Width closed = 1-1/4" (33mm)
• Thickness = 5/8" (16mm)
• Weight = 4.48 oz (127g)

Variations

History

Current incarnation announced at the 2009 Shot Show. The original design was initially showed at SHOT 2007, and was somewhat closer to the Skeletool design, complete with carabiner. The main difference between the prototype Freestyle and Skeletool series was the lack of interchangeable bit driver, and with a fixed "multidriver" in it's place. This multidriver was designed in such a way as to work in both phillips and flathead (slotted) type screws. The Freestyle also did not have the cutout for the spare double ended bit in the handle.

Freestyle Prototype

Related Tools

The Freestyle is very similar to the Skeletool and the Skeletool CX and the Freestyle CX. There are also two keychain Leatherman tools that are based on the Skeletool chasis the Style PS and the Style CS.

More Info

Freestyle and Freestyle CX Review on Multitool.org

Off The Record