Difference Between Stainless and CX Version
I think there is a lot of confusion about what advantages the CX has over the cheaper (-$20) stainless version. I hope this review will clear some of that up. Some reviewers are advising you buy the stainless version because the only difference is a slither of carbon fiber. That is simply not true. The CX has a lot more going on for it than that!
1) The metal used to make the blade in each model is different. The stainless version uses 420HC steel which is a decent metal with good hardness and good edge retention. The CX version uses 154CM steel which is considered by many as a "super steel" because of its good corrosion resistance and excellent toughness and edge retention. Imho this is worth the $20 price difference alone.
2) The blade styles are different. The stainless version has a plain edge whereas the CX has a partially serrated blade. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. The plain blade is much easier to sharpen because you dont have to deal with maintaining any serrations (if you dont know what you are doing serrations tend to get ground away when you do any sharpening). The partially serrated blade however is much more versatile in terms of cutting. In a pinch you can used the serrated part of the knife as a saw or just for more cutting power. Additionally if you learn the proper technique sharpening a serrated blade is not that much more difficult albeit a bit more time consuming. Personally I like the partially serrated blade.
3) The tungsten coating isnt just for looks. True it makes this tool even sexier than it would otherwise be but it also adds a layer of corrosion/oxidation protection. This is a big deal to those of us who intend to use the tool in humid or moist conditions. Natural oxidation isnt always that noticeable and protects the layer of aluminum underneath it. However it is porous and is not as durable as a coating.
4) Some reviewers have stated that the carbon fiber portion of the scales adds cushioning to the handle making it more comfortable to hold. I dont know if that is true or not because I have only held the CX. Still it might be something worth considering.
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UPDATE:
*The 2009 model of the CX has a plain edge blade and the Stainless has a partially serrated blade* Thanks Poiuyt Man for the heads up.
After 1 year I still love this tool. So far it has held up to daily use and abuse very well. I sharpen it maybe 4-5 times a year and oil the joints once or twice a year. I also gave the pocket clip significantly more tension by removing it bending it inward and reattaching it. This keeps the tool firmly in place when I clip it in my pocket. Be careful not to strip the threads by cross-threading or over-torquing if you decide to do this. The pliers have developed a tiny bit of lateral play but they still work great for anything I throw at them. The spare bit holder still has a lot of bite and holds the spare bit firmly in place. I still lost a bit however out of carelessness and had to order a replacement from Leatherman. Although the replacements are pricey Leatherman got it out to me extremely quickly and customer service seemed very responsive and helpful. The tool's black anodizing has held up remarkably well despite being dropped countless times used heavily and tossed around in my pocket with keys.
Overall I am very happy with this tool and it has been my trusty daily-carry almost every day since I got it. Much more versatile than a pocket knife alone and not much bulkier. You really cant appreciate something like this until you start to carry one and forget it at home one day. You will find yourself constantly reaching for it throughout the day only to be greeted with an empty pocket and disappointment. I almost feel naked without mine.More detail ...
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