History: Skeletool CX

Jaws

Same on both models.

Handles/Frame

Same mix of bolted and riveted construction on both models. However:

• Metal surfaces on the CX are given a black tungsten DLC (diamond-like coating) finish.
• Spacer bar sandwiched in the one handle is made from carbon fiber on the CX, whereas the standard Skeletool uses aluminum.

Blades and Tools

• Knife blade on the CX model is made from premium 154CM steel. (instead of 420 stainless)
• Edge profile was partially serrated in the first production run, but was later replaced with a plain edge in 2009.

Locking Mechanism

Same liner lock on both.

Other Features

Carabiner/bottle opener, flattened bit driver, and removable pocket clip are the same on both models.

Sheath

None.

Dimensions

Weight of the Skeletool CX is slightly less than the standard Skeletool (138g -vs-142g) probably due to the use of lightweight carbon fiber.

Variations

First year models (2008) will have a partially serrated 154CM steel blade, while newer models (2009 and up) will have plain edged 154CM steel blades. This change according to Leatherman was based on customer feedback and real world testing. This is valuable information for the collector as the Skeletool series does not have a date stamp as other Leatherman models do.

History

Announced at the 2007 Shot Show. Did not become generally available until March 2008.

Related Tools

The Skeletool CX is very similar to the Skeletool, Skeletool RX and the Freestyle and Freestyle CX. There are also two keychain Leatherman tools that are based on the Skeletool chasis the Style PS and the Style CS. The MUT albeit bigger has very many similarities to the Skeletool CX in that the frame is very similar, it uses same type of fasteners and has a carabiner clip much like the Skeletool CX as well. The Signal also has many of the same similarities to the Skeletool CX as the MUT does.

More Info

• Skeletool Review at Multitool.org
• Skeletool and Skeletool CX User's Guide
• Skeletool advertisement - from early 2008.