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Best Leatherman Tools

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Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Leatherman Surge
Leatherman
Surge
Top Quality

A solid tool that stands out for its impressive number of uses and rugged design.

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Top Quality
Bottom Line

A solid tool that stands out for its impressive number of uses and rugged design.

Pros

An extremely versatile model with 21 tools, including the brand's largest pliers and longest blades. Solid, reliable tools for a wide range of tasks.

Cons

The black finish is a bit oily at first, but this improves with use. It's costly, but you get a lot for the money.

Best Bang for the Buck
Leatherman Sidekick
Leatherman
Sidekick
Basic Pick

About half the cost of similar models. A large number of tools for the price.

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Basic Pick
Bottom Line

About half the cost of similar models. A large number of tools for the price.

Pros

Leatherman's original multi-tool has 14 tools in a midsize, stainless steel unit. Fits in a pocket.

Cons

Feels a bit less durable than costlier models, and some of the tools (short file, flat-head screwdriver) aren't very effective.

Leatherman Wave Plus
Leatherman
Wave Plus
Sleek Stainless Steel

A sound option if you prefer a stainless steel finish, but other options have a bit more to offer.

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Sleek Stainless Steel
Bottom Line

A sound option if you prefer a stainless steel finish, but other options have a bit more to offer.

Pros

A popular model with 18 versatile tools and a sleek stainless steel finish. The blades are very sharp and the pliers have a reliable grip.

Cons

It's on the higher end of the price spectrum but has fewer tools than some cheaper choices.

Leatherman Raptor Response Emergency Shears
Leatherman
Raptor Response Emergency Shears
Best for Cutting

The best choice if you're looking for top-notch shears and cutting tools.

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Best for Cutting
Bottom Line

The best choice if you're looking for top-notch shears and cutting tools.

Pros

Incredibly sharp cutting power with Leatherman's heavy-duty construction. Features 6 professional-level tools, including 3 cutting tools.

Cons

A bit bulky and difficult to remove from the holster.

Leatherman Skeletool CX
Leatherman
Skeletool CX
Comfort and Versatility

If you need a streamlined multi-tool with a range of basic tools and few bells and whistles this is a good choice.

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Comfort and Versatility
Bottom Line

If you need a streamlined multi-tool with a range of basic tools and few bells and whistles this is a good choice.

Pros

A basic Leatherman with 7 tools that features multiple pliers and wire cutters. The curved handle is easy to control with a comfortable grip.

Cons

Occasional complaints that the blade's serrated edge isn't very effective.

Why trust BestReviews?
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

First Reviewed
October 27, 2021
54
Models
considered
8
Hours
researched
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Buying guide for Best leatherman tools

Written by Bob Beacham, and fact-checked by Beth Allen
Updated August 2022

Leatherman invented the multi-tool, and the firm has been at the forefront of the development of this invaluable gadget ever since.

The company now offers a whole array of different products. Just about every imaginable accessory is available in a variety of sizes to suit all needs. Far from resting on its laurels, however, Leatherman continues to introduce tools that provide innovative solutions, ranging from those that make life just a little easier to those that can dramatically improve user safety.

In this shopping guide we look at your choices in more detail. It outlines the important features you need to look for and provides answers to common questions about Leatherman’s products.

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Leatherman is named after inventor Tim Leatherman, who created the world's first Pocket Survival Tool in 1975, though it took him until 1983 to get it into full production.

A multi-tool for every demand

Leatherman produces four sizes of what we all recognize as a multi-tool: keychain, pocket, full, and heavy-duty. Each is fitted with anywhere from 6 to 21 tools, from scissors and bottle-openers to rulers and screwdrivers, and, of course, a wide variety of blades. Some are designed as all-rounders, others for particular trades, such as cable installers. There are also ultra-light Skeletools for those who need practical accessories but want to carry as little weight as possible.

Expert Tip
You can put a Leatherman tool in the dishwasher with the tools opened up. Be sure to let it fully dry before closing up again.
BestReviews Home Improvement and DIY Expert

Alongside these, there are pocket knives, safety equipment, pocket tools aimed at hunters, winter sports fans, and surfers, and even wearables – multi-tools you can carry on your wrist. All of them are made from high-quality materials and components to the most exacting standards.

Somewhere in the range there's a Leatherman multi-tool to suit practically every individual. It's not difficult to find something with an accessory list that reads like it was written specifically for you. There's a Leatherman for opening boxes or bottles that also includes a wrench and a screwdriver. Another can help you fix your skateboard.

Leatherman tool features

Given the variety in the Leatherman lineup, it's important to think about the tools you need and the way you'll use them. It might be tempting to go for a heavy-duty model with every conceivable gadget, but if you need the tool for backpacking, there's a good chance that it will be heavier than you want to carry and have accessories you'll never use. Maybe something smaller, with a built-in lanyard point would be better. You'll probably save money, too. On the other hand, if you want that gift for the person who has everything, there are models with titanium handles and Damascus steel blades!

Here are a few features to think about as you shop:

  • Geared drives allow you to apply more force than simple pinned connections.
  • Sprung tools return to the open position with each use, giving a faster action.
  • Locking tools provide user safety.
  • Folding tools that extend out from the handle allow you to use them while the rest of the device is closed.
  • Replaceable blades extend the life of your multi-tool. Wire cutters wear down eventually and it's not practical to resharpen them.
  • Switchable blades give you the option to extend versatility beyond the tool's standard collection.
  • Sheaths come in handy and there are many available. Leather looks great and has a quality feel, but nylon might be more practical, particularly if it will frequently get wet. MOLLE versions are especially tough and may have pockets for extra bits or other accessories.
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Expert Tip
Leatherman stands by its 25 yr warranty so keep receipts and packaging.
BestReviews Home Improvement and DIY Expert

Leatherman tool prices

Leatherman is undoubtedly the best-known name in multi-tools, and the company’s material choices and high production standards mean these tools are seldom cheap. You might be able to save money with another brand, but Leatherman remains popular because it offers unrivaled versatility, excellent performance, and tremendous durability.

Inexpensive

Pocket tools start at less than $10. Entry-level models in the keychain range, pocket knives, and the Z-Rex Firefighter tool cost a very affordable $30 and up.

Mid-range

The popular Rebar, an update on the original Leatherman, is about $70, and you have lots of choices in the $80 to $150 bracket.

Expensive

The specialized tactical MUT multi-tool is in the region of $240. At the top of the range is the amazing Tread Tempo multi-tool watch at $450.

Tips

  • Sharpen the blades. All blades need sharpening eventually. Any straight-edged tool can be honed to an angle of 32° using whatever method you prefer. Serrated blades need a tool designed for the purpose (you might already have one, but they’re widely available). The angle should be 20°. Never sharpen the back of serrated blades because it will change the shape of the serration and reduce performance.
  • Clean your multi-tool. If necessary, clean your tool in warm water with a little detergent. Difficult areas can be cleaned with mineral spirits. Never use strong chemicals like bleach, brake cleaner, or acetone because they can damage plastics. Saltwater marks or other surface stains can be removed with a nonabrasive metal polish.
  • Lubricate your multi-tool. Oil it lightly with a spray lubricant such as WD-40. Linkages, gears, and other movement areas can be further protected with a Teflon lubricant or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grease.
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Expert Tip
Cleaning can be done with WD-40 or Liquid Wrench, which helps force out moisture trapped in the joints to prevent rust.
BestReviews Home Improvement and DIY Expert
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Multi-tools in the standard “pliers” design aren't Leatherman’s only approach. It also offers a range of multifunction knives and some wearables.

FAQ

Q. Can I take my Leatherman on a commercial flight?

A. It's a common question, but unfortunately the answer is not straightforward. Any kind of bladed tool, and those with sharp points, would not be allowed in a carry-on. They're perfectly OK in your checked luggage, though.

Certain Leatherman tools are currently Transportation Security Administration (TSA) compliant, such as the the Hail (popular with skiers and snowboarders) and the Piranha 2 wrench and driver. However, rules can change at any time, so it's important to check before departure. Additionally, TSA agents have the right to make individual decisions on a case-by-case basis. While the Leatherman site should have up-to-date information, if the agent says no, that's end of story.

What could add even more complications are the rules at the point of entry or exit in another country. The TSA is responsible for the United States. While most other countries have similar restrictions, each is responsible for its own jurisdiction. What does and doesn't constitute “dangerous” can differ. It's possible that you could walk through US customs just fine but be stopped on arrival somewhere else. It's easiest just to put it in your checked luggage. It's not very likely you'll be adjusting your ski bindings on the plane anyway!

Q. Do Leatherman tools carry a lifetime warranty?

A. Actually, it's 25 years, which is still impressive. It doesn't cover sheaths, which are very durable but could be subject to high wear and tear. Leather and synthetic materials aren't as tough as steel. The warranty also doesn't cover some accessories. Basically, Leatherman is confident of each tool's quality, so if it breaks, the company will replace it.

Q. Can I change or replace individual blades or other devices in a Leatherman?

A. Some parts will eventually wear out – cutter blades or saws, for example – and many of these are replaceable. They should be available where you bought your Leatherman tool. Other small items might get lost, such as pop-out tweezers, and replacements are also available for these. However, you can't individually customize a tool. If it's damaged, you can return it to Leatherman for a replacement, but you can't, for example, substitute a blade for a wrench. This is because every component of the tool is designed to work together. Changing one could compromise this functionality.

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