The multi-tool market is a crowded one, dominated by established names like Leatherman and flooded with countless imitations. Yet, every now and then, a standout emerges—offering genuine innovation at a more accessible price. The Nextool Flagship Pro is one such exception. After spending time with it, it’s clear this multi-tool delivers impressive functionality, particularly for those looking for solid performance without the premium price tag.
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Flagship Pro Dark Edition arrives in a no-frills box, accented with dark trim to signify the “Dark Edition” moniker. The packaging clearly displays the tool’s specifications: dimensions of 110x40x21.5 mm, a weight of 245 grams (give or take 5), and construction primarily from 30CR13 stainless steel for the blade, with 420J1 and 420J2 steel used for the remaining components. As expected, it’s made in China.
Inside the box, alongside the tool itself, we find a desiccant pack, a set of replacement wire cutters (including screws), and a user manual detailing the tool’s various functions. The Flagship Pro comes nestled in a simple black nylon sheath with a Velcro closure and a belt loop for convenient carry.
The first impression is positive. The dark black oxide finish, with a subtle stonewashed effect, gives the tool a rugged, slightly worn aesthetic that’s appealing. The overall craftsmanship appears to be quite good, especially considering the price point.
Key Features and Functionality
The Nextool Flagship Pro Dark Edition boasts a comprehensive set of tools, but a few stand out.
Pliers: The pliers are the centerpiece of any good multi-tool, and the Flagship Pro’s are solid. They feature a snappy action and a well-defined tip with minimal play. The plier head includes long-nose bolt grippers, replaceable soft and hard wire cutters, and an additional spring-loaded wire cutter. The handle design is surprisingly comfortable in hand, even during extended use.
Scissors: The standout feature of the Flagship Pro is undoubtedly its large pair of scissors. These aren’t your typical multi-tool scissors; they’re significantly larger than those found on the Leatherman Wave, rivaling even EMT shears in size. This makes them incredibly versatile for a wide range of cutting tasks, from paper and fabric to tougher materials.
Knife and Saw: The Flagship Pro features a ship’s foot-style, plain-edge knife blade that can be opened with one hand and locks securely in place with a liner lock. The saw, while not overly long or aggressively sharp, is functional for basic cutting tasks. An interesting detail is the ball-bearing mechanism used in the locking system, which provides a smooth and positive lockup.
Other Tools: Beyond the core functions, the Flagship Pro includes a ruler (in centimeters and inches), a pocket clip, a rope/belt cutter, a Phillips head screwdriver, a can opener with a wire stripper, a bottle opener with a flathead screwdriver, and a glass breaker with a ceramic ball bearing. The Phillips head screwdriver is a bit on the flat side, but it should still be functional for most applications.
Comparison to the Leatherman Wave
The Leatherman Wave is the benchmark in the multi-tool world, so it’s natural to compare the Flagship Pro to it. In terms of size, the Nextool is a bit taller and wider than the Wave, though roughly the same thickness. While the Wave might offer a slightly more refined feel and a wider array of tools, the Flagship Pro holds its own, especially considering the price difference.
Final Thoughts
The Nextool Flagship Pro Dark Edition is an impressive multi-tool that offers a compelling combination of functionality and value. While it may not have the same brand recognition or the sheer number of tools as a Leatherman Wave, it provides a solid set of features, including a particularly impressive pair of scissors, at a more budget-friendly price. If you’re looking for a capable multi-tool without breaking the bank, the Nextool Flagship Pro is definitely worth considering. Whether it’s a worthy addition to your everyday carry depends on your specific needs, but it’s certainly a strong contender in the crowded multi-tool market.