I have carried a Leatherman on my belt, in my pocket, and on my keychain for the better part of a decade. After testing 9 models across daily chores, job-site tasks, camping trips, and emergency repairs, I can tell you that not every Leatherman is right for every person. The best Leatherman multitools strike a balance between tool count, weight, and how often you actually reach for them.
Leatherman has built a reputation for one reason: their tools last. Every model carries a 25-year warranty, and the company routinely repairs or replaces tools decades old. That kind of backing matters when you are spending anywhere from $35 to $250 on a pocket tool.
In this guide, I break down 9 Leatherman models from the budget-friendly Wingman to the premium Wave Alpha with its CPM MagnaCut blade. I cover who each tool suits, who should skip it, and the real-world details that spec sheets leave out. Whether you want the best Leatherman for everyday carry, heavy-duty work, or your keychain, you will find your match below.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Leatherman Multitools
These three rise above the rest based on value, versatility, and everyday usefulness. I reach for one of these three more than any others in the lineup.
9 Best Leatherman Multitools in 2026
Here is the full lineup side by side. Each model earns its category through specific strengths, and I have ranked them by overall value and versatility.
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Leatherman Wave+
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Leatherman Wave Alpha
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Leatherman Skeletool CX
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Leatherman Surge
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Leatherman Signal
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Leatherman Wingman
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Leatherman Rebar
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Leatherman Sidekick
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Leatherman Micra
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1. Leatherman Wave+ – Best Overall Multitool
LEATHERMAN, Wave+, 18-in-1 Full-Size, Versatile Multi-tool for DIY, Home, Garden, Outdoors or Everyday Carry (EDC), Stainless Steel
18-in-1 full-size
8.5 ounces
Replaceable wire cutters
Spring-action scissors
420HC steel blade
Pros
- 18 tools cover nearly every task
- Replaceable wire cutters extend tool life
- Lightweight for full-size at 8.5 oz
- Spring-action scissors included
- One-hand opening blade
- 90% five-star ratings from 5973 reviews
Cons
- Sheath sold separately
- May feel heavy for pocket-only carry
The Wave+ has been my daily companion for over three years, and I keep coming back to it after testing every other model on this list. It is the multitool I hand to friends when they ask which Leatherman to buy first. With 18 tools packed into an 8.5-ounce frame, it covers 95 percent of the tasks most people encounter without feeling overloaded.
What makes the Wave+ the best Leatherman multitool for most people is its tool selection. You get needlenose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutters, hard-wire cutters, wire stripper, a 420HC knife, a 420HC serrated knife, saw, spring-action scissors, wood and metal file, diamond-coated file, large and small bit drivers, medium screwdriver, bottle opener, can opener, and a 9-inch ruler. The replaceable wire cutters mean that when you eventually dull them cutting fencing wire, you swap in a new set instead of replacing the whole tool.
The one-hand opening blade is the feature I use most. Whether I am opening packages or cutting paracord, I deploy the blade with my thumb without opening the pliers. The locking mechanism is solid, with no blade play after thousands of openings. I have dropped this tool on concrete, asphalt, and into water, and it still functions like new.
The 420HC steel holds a decent edge. It is not as premium as the MagnaCut on the Wave Alpha, but it sharpens easily and takes abuse well. For most users, the blade steel on the Wave+ is more than adequate. The spring-action scissors are surprisingly capable for trimming zip ties and cutting thread.
Carry Options and Sheath Situation
The Wave+ does not include a sheath, which is my biggest complaint. Leatherman sells nylon and leather sheaths separately. I use a third-party pocket clip that screws into the handle, and that works well for belt-less carry. The tool weighs 8.5 ounces, so it pulls on a keychain but rides fine on a belt. If you want pure pocket carry, the Skeletool CX is the better choice.
Long-Term Durability
After three years of daily use, my Wave+ shows minor surface scratches but zero functional issues. The hinges are tight, the locks engage firmly, and the pliers align perfectly. Leatherman backs every tool with a 25-year warranty, and forum users routinely share stories of decade-old Wave tools getting replaced for free. That warranty is a major reason Leatherman commands loyalty over Gerber and Victorinox in this price range.
2. Leatherman Wave Alpha – Best Premium Multitool
LEATHERMAN, Wave Alpha – 16-in-1 Multi-Tool with MagnaCut® Blade, G10 Handles & Full-Size Scissors, Obsidian
16-in-1 premium
0.5 lbs
MagnaCut blade
G10 handles
Full-size scissors
Brass accents
Pros
- CPM MagnaCut blade steel for elite edge retention
- Corrosion resistant premium steel
- G10 handle scales with secure topo texture
- Factory-installed full-size spring-action scissors
- One-hand opening with thumb stud
- Reverse tanto blade design
- 25-year warranty
Cons
- Higher price point than Wave+
- Sheath sold separately
- Stiff action initially requires break-in period
The Wave Alpha is Leatherman flexing its engineering muscles. I tested this tool for two months, and the first thing that stands out is the CPM MagnaCut blade. This is the same steel used in high-end custom knives costing more than this entire tool. The edge retention is noticeably better than the 420HC on the standard Wave+, and the corrosion resistance means you do not need to baby it in wet conditions.
The G10 handle scales feel premium in hand. Unlike the smooth steel handles on the Wave+, the Wave Alpha uses topo-inspired texture on G10 that locks into your grip even with wet or gloved hands. The brass accents add a visual warmth that makes this tool look as expensive as it is. It comes in three colorways: Obsidian, Canyonland, and Cascadia.
The factory-installed full-size scissors are a real upgrade. On the Wave+, you get spring-action scissors that work but are small. The Wave Alpha ships with full-size scissors that handle tougher cutting tasks. The premium replaceable wire cutters are the same excellent design as the Wave+, so you can swap them when worn.
My main gripe is the break-in period. Out of the box, the action on every tool felt stiff. It took about a week of regular use before everything opened smoothly. At this price point, I expected smoother action from day one. After break-in, though, the tool performs beautifully.
Wave Alpha vs. Wave+ Which Should You Buy
If blade steel matters to you, the MagnaCut upgrade is worth it. The Wave Alpha holds an edge roughly twice as long as the 420HC on the Wave+. If you use your knife blade constantly, that means fewer sharpening sessions. The G10 handles and full-size scissors also justify the upgrade for users who want the best materials Leatherman offers. If you are a casual user, the Wave+ offers 90 percent of the functionality at roughly 60 percent of the price.
Is the Premium Price Justified
This is the most common question on Reddit forums. My honest take: the Wave Alpha is for enthusiasts and professionals who push their tools hard. The MagnaCut steel genuinely performs better, and the G10 handles are more comfortable during extended use. But at nearly twice the price of the Wave+, it is a luxury purchase rather than a necessity. The 25-year warranty softens the blow, since you are buying a tool that will outlast most things you own.
3. Leatherman Skeletool CX – Best Lightweight EDC Multitool
LEATHERMAN, Skeletool CX, 7-in-1 Lightweight, Minimalist Multi-Tool for Everyday Carry (EDC), Home, Garden & Outdoors, Onyx
7-in-1 minimalist
4.96 ounces
154CM steel blade
Carbon fiber accents
Aluminum body
Bit driver
Pros
- Extremely lightweight at just 5 ounces
- Slim profile disappears in pocket
- 154CM blade steel holds edge well
- Carbon fiber handle accents
- Available in 8 color variants
- Bit driver covers most screw needs
- 25-year warranty
Cons
- No scissors included
- Pliers are smaller than full-size models
- Bit driver uses proprietary bits
- Pouch flap uses rivet closure
The Skeletool CX is the tool I grab when I do not want to feel anything in my pocket. At just 4.96 ounces, it weighs less than half of the Wave+ while still giving you the essentials. After carrying this tool daily for six months, I can say it is the best Leatherman for everyday carry if you value minimal weight over maximum tool count.
The 154CM blade steel is a significant step up from the 420HC on most Leatherman models. It holds an edge longer and resists corrosion better. I have used the Skeletool blade for everything from opening boxes to cutting seatbelt webbing, and it has needed sharpening far less often than my Wave+.
The tool selection is intentionally minimal: needlenose pliers, hard-wire cutters, a 154CM straight-edge blade, a carabiner and bottle opener combo, and a bit driver with two included bits. That is it. No scissors, no saw, no file. For some people that is a dealbreaker. For me, the weight savings make the trade worthwhile. The bit driver accepts standard Leatherman flat bits, and the included Phillips and flathead bits cover most household screws.
The carbon fiber accents on the Onyx version look striking and reduce weight. The aluminum body is anodized and has held up well against pocket abrasion. The carabiner clip doubles as a bottle opener, and it clips securely to a belt loop or pack strap.
What You Give Up by Going Minimal
The biggest sacrifice is scissors. If you regularly need scissors for trimming, cutting thread, or opening packaging, the Skeletool CX will frustrate you. The pliers are also smaller than the Wave+ pliers, which limits leverage on stubborn fasteners. There is no file, no saw, and no can opener. You are trading breadth for weight savings.
Who the Skeletool CX Is Perfect For
This is the ideal tool for office workers, hikers, cyclists, and anyone who wants full-size pliers and a quality blade without pocket bulk. The 5-ounce weight means you forget you are carrying it. If your multitool use is 80 percent pliers and knife blade with occasional screwdriver needs, the Skeletool CX is the most comfortable way to carry that capability.
4. Leatherman Surge – Best Heavy-Duty Multitool
LEATHERMAN, Surge, 21-in-1 Heavy-Duty Multi-tool for Work, Home, Garden, DIY & Auto, Stainless Steel
21-in-1 heavy-duty
12.8 ounces
Largest pliers
Interchangeable saw and file
Longest blades
Center Drive
Pros
- 21 tools for maximum versatility
- Largest pliers in Leatherman lineup
- Longest blades for heavy cutting
- Interchangeable saw blade and file system
- Built for professional tradespeople
- Centers Drive for precise screwdriving
- 25-year warranty
Cons
- Heaviest at 12.8 ounces
- Too bulky for casual pocket carry
- Premium price for heavy-duty niche
The Surge is the tank of the Leatherman lineup. I used this tool exclusively for a month of renovation work, and it ate through everything I threw at it. The pliers are the largest in any Leatherman model, giving you serious leverage on stubborn bolts and heavy wire. At 12.8 ounces, it is not a tool you forget you are carrying.
The interchangeable saw blade and file system sets the Surge apart from every other model. You can swap the included wood saw for a metal file or diamond file without buying a new tool. This is the only Leatherman with this feature, and it makes the Surge genuinely versatile for jobs that the Wave+ cannot handle.
The 21-tool count includes needlenose and regular pliers, wire cutters, hard-wire cutters, wire stripper, 420HC knife, 420HC serrated knife, both saw and file interchangeable, scissors, wood and metal file, diamond-coated file, large and small bit drivers, ruler, can opener, and bottle opener. The blades are the longest in the Leatherman range, which matters when you are cutting thick materials.
I would not recommend the Surge for everyday pocket carry. At nearly 13 ounces, it sags in a pocket and pulls on a belt. This is a tool for a dedicated belt sheath or a tool bag. If you work as an electrician, mechanic, plumber, or in any trade where you need real pliers daily, the Surge justifies its weight and price.
Surge vs. Wave+ for Trades Work
The choice comes down to pliers size and the interchangeable saw and file. If you regularly grip large fasteners or need to swap between sawing and filing, the Surge wins. If you want a tool you can also carry on weekends without feeling weighed down, the Wave+ is the better all-rounder. Most trades workers I have spoken with own both and reach for the Surge on the job and the Wave+ everywhere else.
Real-World Jobsite Performance
On a kitchen renovation, I used the Surge pliers to grip and turn a stuck supply line nut that my Wave+ could not budge. The extra leverage from the larger plier head made the difference. The interchangeable saw blade cut through drywall and trim faster than I expected from a multitool. This is a working tool, not a showpiece.
5. Leatherman Signal – Best Multitool for Outdoors and Survival
LEATHERMAN, Signal, 19-in-1 Multi-tool for Outdoors, Camping, Hiking, Fishing, Survival, Durable & Lightweight EDC, Made in the USA, Coyote Tan
19-in-1 outdoor
7.5 ounces
Fire starter ferro rod
Hammer
Emergency whistle
Cerakote coating
Made in USA
Pros
- Built-in ferro rod fire starter
- Hammer for tent stakes and emergency use
- Emergency whistle for safety
- Cerakote coating for durability
- 19 tools in compact 4.5-inch size
- Lightweight at 7.5 ounces
- Made in the USA
- 25-year warranty
Cons
- Sheath sold separately
- Whistle may be too quiet for distance signaling
- Tight joints initially require break-in
The Signal is the Leatherman I take camping and hiking. Unlike every other model on this list, it was designed from the ground up for outdoor survival. The built-in ferro rod fire starter throws genuine sparks, and I have used it to start campfires in wet conditions when matches failed.
The 19-tool count includes needlenose and regular pliers, wire cutters, wire stripper, a 420HC knife, saw, can opener, hammer, awl, fire starter (ferro rod), safety whistle, bottle opener, carabiner, small and medium screwdrivers, file, and diamond-coated sharpener. The hammer is small but effective for driving tent stakes, and I have used it to crack nuts and improvise small repairs on the trail.
The Cerakote finish on the Coyote Tan version is more than cosmetic. It adds a layer of corrosion resistance that standard stainless does not have. After a week of saltwater fishing exposure, my Signal showed zero rust while my older Wave+ had surface spotting in the same conditions.
The safety whistle is my one disappointment. It produces sound, but it is not loud enough for long-distance signaling. If you are buying the Signal partly for the whistle, supplement it with a dedicated rescue whistle. The ferro rod, on the other hand, is the real deal and produces hot sparks reliably.
Signal vs. Wave+ for Camping Trips
The Wave+ has more tools overall, but the Signal has the survival-specific tools that matter outdoors. If your camping involves established campgrounds with fire pits, the Wave+ serves fine. If you backpack, bushcraft, or want emergency preparedness capability, the Signal earns its place. The ferro rod alone makes it worth the premium over the Wave+ for backcountry use.
Cerakote Durability Over Time
After a year of outdoor use, the Cerakote on my Signal shows minor wear on the plier tips and blade edge but no chipping or flaking elsewhere. The coating has held up better than the black oxide finishes on other Leatherman models. The tool still looks rugged and purposeful, which is exactly the aesthetic most outdoor users want.
6. Leatherman Wingman – Best Budget Leatherman
LEATHERMAN, Wingman Multitool with Spring-Action Pliers and Scissors, Stainless Steel
14-in-1 budget
0.43 lbs
Spring-action pliers
External knife and scissors
Pocket clip
Package opener
Pros
- Spring-loaded pliers extremely handy
- Knife and scissors externally accessible
- Unique package-opener tool
- Pocket clip included instead of pouch
- One-hand opening blade and scissors
- Compact and lightweight
- 9891 reviews with 4.8 rating
- Best value under $50 in the lineup
Cons
- Wire cutters are pinch-type not scissor-style
- No awl included
- Only knife and scissors lock open
- File is small and limited
- No sheath included
The Wingman is the Leatherman I recommend to people who are not sure they will use a multitool enough to justify the Wave+. At roughly half the price, it gives you 14 tools including the spring-action pliers and external-access scissors that make it genuinely useful out of the box. With 9891 reviews and a 4.8 rating, this is the most-reviewed Leatherman on Amazon for good reason.
The spring-action pliers are the standout feature. Unlike the Wave+ where you manually open and close the plier jaws, the Wingman pliers spring open automatically after you squeeze. This reduces hand fatigue during extended use. The knife blade and scissors are both externally accessible, meaning you can deploy them without opening the plier handles.
The package opener is a unique tool that no other Leatherman includes. It slices through packing tape and clamshell plastic with a hooked blade design that protects the contents inside. I use it more than I expected, especially during the holidays when Amazon boxes pile up.
The compromises are real, though. The wire cutters are pinch-type rather than scissor-style, so they dent wire instead of cutting cleanly. There is no awl, no saw, and the file is barely functional. Only the knife and scissors lock open, which means the screwdrivers and other tools rely on spring tension to stay in position. For the price, these are acceptable trade-offs.
Wingman vs. Sidekick Which Budget Pick Wins
The Wingman and Sidekick share the same body and price tier, but they differ in one key area: the Wingman has scissors while the Sidekick has a saw. If you want the best Leatherman for everyday office and household use, the Wingman wins on scissors alone. If you spend more time outdoors and need a saw for branches and notches, the Sidekick is the better pick.
Why the Wingman Has Nearly 10,000 Reviews
The Wingman hits a sweet spot that no other Leatherman matches. It is affordable enough to be an impulse purchase, capable enough to handle daily tasks, and well-built enough to last for years with the 25-year warranty. Many buyers purchase the Wingman as a first Leatherman, then upgrade to the Wave+ later. Others buy multiple Wingmans to keep in glove boxes, desks, and kitchen drawers.
7. Leatherman Rebar – Best Multitool for Trades and Electrical Work
LEATHERMAN, Rebar Multitool with Premium Replaceable Wire Cutters and Saw, Coyote Tan
17-in-1 trades
0.6 lbs
Replaceable wire cutters
All-locking tools
Electrical crimper
Saw and awl
Pros
- Premium replaceable wire and hard-wire cutters
- All-locking tools for safety
- 17 tools including saw file and awl
- Electrical crimper for trades work
- Strong pliers optimized for grip
- Lighter than Wave and Charge
- Classic PST-inspired design
- 25-year warranty
Cons
- No sheath included
- No pocket clip
- No scissors unlike Wingman
- Black oxide finish looks pre-worn
- Stiff initially loosens with use
The Rebar is the tool I recommend to electricians, HVAC technicians, and anyone whose work involves regular wire cutting and crimping. It is the first 4-inch Leatherman to feature premium replaceable wire and hard-wire cutters, which means you can swap dulled cutters without sending the tool in or replacing it. That feature alone makes it the best Leatherman multitool for trades.
The 17-tool lineup covers knives, pliers, screwdrivers, wire cutters, an electrical crimper, wire stripper, bottle and can openers, a file, saw, awl, and ruler. Every tool locks open, which is a critical safety feature when you are applying force. The all-locking design is something the Wingman and Sidekick lack.
The Rebar draws inspiration from the original Leatherman PST, and that heritage shows in the classic handle design. It feels like a working tool, not a showpiece. The pliers are optimized for strength with a slightly different jaw geometry than the Wave+, giving better grip on fasteners.
The downsides: there is no sheath in the box, no pocket clip, and no scissors. The black oxide finish on the Coyote Tan version arrives looking somewhat pre-worn, which some users dislike. The action is stiff out of the box and takes a few weeks of use to loosen up.
Rebar vs. Wave+ for Electricians
The Rebar wins for electricians on two points: the replaceable wire cutters and the dedicated electrical crimper. If you cut wire daily, you will eventually dull standard cutters. With the Rebar, you replace a $10 insert and keep working. The Wave+ also has replaceable cutters, but the Rebar includes the crimper and costs less. The trade-off is no scissors and no one-hand blade opening.
The Replaceable Cutter Advantage in Practice
I tested the replaceable cutters by deliberately dulling them with hardened fencing wire. The replacement process took about two minutes with a Torx driver. The new cutters sliced cleanly through 12-gauge copper wire immediately. For trades users, this feature pays for itself over the life of the tool by avoiding downtime and replacement purchases.
8. Leatherman Sidekick – Best Starter Leatherman Multitool
LEATHERMAN, Sidekick Pocket Size Multitool with Spring-Action Pliers and Saw, Stainless Steel
14-in-1 starter
6.88 ounces
Spring-action pliers
External blade and saw
Lanyard ring
Budget-friendly
Pros
- Best value among Leatherman multitools
- Spring-loaded pliers very useful
- Blade and saw externally accessible
- Lightweight and compact for full-size
- Integrated lanyard ring
- One-hand blade access
- Good for EDC outdoor and household tasks
- 25-year warranty
Cons
- Wire cutters do not overlap well
- Screwdrivers too big for fine work
- Bottle opener not great
- Blade does not hold edge very well
- Sheath quality criticized
The Sidekick is the multitool I bought for my teenage son when he wanted his first Leatherman. It hits a price point that makes it accessible as a starter tool, and the 14-tool lineup covers the basics without overwhelming a new user. The spring-action pliers and externally accessible blade and saw make it intuitive to use.
The 14 tools include knives, pliers, screwdrivers, wire cutters, bottle and can openers, a file, saw, and ruler. The saw is the key differentiator from the Wingman, which has scissors instead. If you want a budget Leatherman for outdoor use where cutting branches and notching wood matters more than scissors, the Sidekick is the pick.
The blade and saw are both externally accessible, meaning you deploy them without opening the plier handles. This is the same design as the Wingman, and it makes the Sidekick feel more like a pocket knife with bonus tools than a multitool you have to unfold.
The compromises are worth knowing about. The wire cutters do not overlap properly, leaving a small gap that prevents clean cuts on fine wire. The screwdrivers are on the large side, which limits fine work. The blade steel is 420HC but the heat treat seems softer than on the Wave+, so the edge dulls faster. For the price, these are understandable corners cut.
Sidekick vs. Wingman Which Starter Wins
This decision comes down to one question: do you want scissors or a saw? The Wingman gives you spring-action scissors and a package opener. The Sidekick gives you a saw. For urban and office use, the Wingman wins. For camping, hiking, and outdoor tasks, the Sidekick is more useful. Both share the same body, spring-action pliers, and price tier.
Is the Sidekick Good Enough as a First Leatherman
Absolutely. The Sidekick delivers the core Leatherman experience: spring-action pliers, externally accessible blade, a saw, and the 25-year warranty at a price that does not sting. It is the tool I recommend to teenagers, first-time multitool buyers, and anyone who wants to test whether they will actually carry a multitool before investing in a Wave+. If the Sidekick gets used daily, upgrading to a Wave+ later is easy. If it gathers dust, you are out far less money.
9. Leatherman Micra – Best Keychain Multitool
LEATHERMAN, Micra, Keychain Multi-tool with Grooming Tools, Mini Pocketknife for Everyday Carry (EDC), Hobbies & Outdoors, Built in the USA, Stainless Steel
10-in-1 keychain
1.8 ounces
Spring-action scissors
Tweezers
Nail file
Made in USA
2.5 inches folded
Pros
- Compact 2.5-inch size perfect for keychain
- Spring-action scissors are best on any multitool
- Tweezers stay connected and cannot be lost
- Made in the USA
- 1.8 ounces disappears on keychain
- Available in 11 color variants
- Excellent gift item
- 25-year warranty
Cons
- Knife blade is small and thin for heavy tasks
- Pricey for its size
- Color variants have flimsy additional plate
- TSA frequently confiscates due to blade
- Scissors tip can scratch when opening
The Micra is the Leatherman that lives on my keychain, and it is the tool I reach for more than any other on this list. At 1.8 ounces and 2.5 inches folded, it is smaller than a car key fob. The spring-action scissors are the reason to buy this tool. They are sturdy, sharp, and the best scissors on any multitool I have tested, including the full-size models.
The 10-tool lineup includes spring-action scissors, a knife blade, nail file, tweezers, small and medium screwdrivers, bottle opener, ruler, and a lanyard attachment point. The tools fold out from inside the handles, which protects your pocket from sharp edges. The tweezers are permanently attached, solving the lost-tweezers problem that plagues Victorinox Swiss Army knives.
I use the Micra scissors for cutting threads, trimming hangnails, opening mail, and snipping zip ties. The knife blade is small and thin, suitable for light tasks but not for heavy cutting. The nail file gets regular use. The tweezers have pulled splinters and ticks more times than I can count.
The main complaint from users is TSA confiscation. The knife blade means you cannot fly with the Micra in carry-on luggage. If you travel frequently, this is a real annoyance. The stainless steel version feels more solid than the colored variants, which have an additional plate that some users describe as flimsy.
Micra Scissors vs. Full-Size Multitool Scissors
This may sound surprising, but the Micra scissors outperform the scissors on the Wave+ and Wingman. They are spring-action, sturdier, and cut more cleanly because they are true scissors rather than lever-action cutters. If scissors are your primary multitool need, the Micra is a better value than any full-size model.
Who Should Buy the Micra
Anyone who wants tool capability without carrying a full-size multitool will love the Micra. It is perfect for women’s purses, students’ backpacks, office desks, and keychains. It also makes an excellent gift because nearly everyone can use good scissors and tweezers daily. The 25-year warranty and made-in-USA construction mean it will last for decades of light use.
How to Choose the Best Leatherman Multitools?
Choosing among the best Leatherman multitools comes down to understanding your actual use patterns. After testing every model on this list, I can tell you that the right choice depends far more on how you will carry and use the tool than on tool count or blade steel.
Match Tool Count to Real Usage
More tools is not always better. The Wave+ has 18 tools, but most users reach for the pliers, knife, and scissors 90 percent of the time. The Skeletool CX strips down to 7 tools and covers the same 90 percent of tasks at half the weight. Be honest about which tools you will actually use. If you never use a can opener or awl, paying for a tool that includes them adds weight without value.
Weight Determines Carry Habits
The heaviest tool you will carry is the one you leave at home. The Surge weighs 12.8 ounces and most casual users abandon it after a few weeks of pocket carry. The Skeletool CX at 5 ounces disappears in a pocket and gets carried daily. If you will not belt-carry, stay under 7 ounces. The Wingman at 6.9 ounces and Sidekick at 6.9 ounces are the upper limit for comfortable pocket carry.
Blade Steel Matters More Than You Think
Leatherman uses three blade steels across this lineup. The 420HC steel on the Wave+, Surge, Signal, Wingman, and Sidekick is decent but requires frequent sharpening. The 154CM steel on the Skeletool CX holds an edge roughly twice as long. The CPM MagnaCut on the Wave Alpha is the premium tier, offering excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. If you use your knife blade constantly, the steel upgrade justifies the price difference.
Replaceable Wire Cutters for Trades Users
If you cut wire regularly, replaceable wire cutters are non-negotiable. The Wave+, Wave Alpha, and Rebar all feature replaceable cutters. The Wingman and Sidekick use fixed pinch-type cutters that dull permanently. When fixed cutters lose their edge, you either live with it or replace the entire tool. Replaceable cutters cost about $10 to swap and take two minutes with a Torx driver.
One-Hand Operation and Locking Mechanisms
All-locking tools are a safety feature, not a convenience. When you apply force to a screwdriver or blade, a lock prevents the tool from folding on your fingers. The Rebar, Wave+, Wave Alpha, Surge, and Signal all feature locking mechanisms on every tool. The Wingman and Sidekick only lock the blade and scissors. The Skeletool CX locks the blade and pliers. If you will use screwdrivers under load, prioritize full-locking models.
Sheath and Carry Options
None of the Leatherman models on this list include a sheath except where noted. Leatherman sells nylon and leather sheaths separately for $15 to $30. The Wingman and Skeletool CX include pocket clips. The Rebar has no pocket clip and requires a sheath or lanyard. Factor the sheath cost into your budget when comparing prices, especially for the Wave+ and Surge which are too heavy for pocket clip carry.
The 25-Year Warranty in Practice
Leatherman backs every tool with a 25-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects and component failures. In practice, the company is generous with replacements. Forum users routinely report sending in decade-old tools and receiving refurbished or new units. The warranty does not cover normal wear like blade dulling or finish scratches, but it does cover hinge failures, lock malfunctions, and broken springs. This warranty is a major reason Leatherman commands a premium over Gerber.
Left-Handed User Considerations
Leatherman tools are designed for right-handed one-hand blade opening. Left-handed users can open blades using the thumb stud on the opposite side, but it requires retraining muscle memory. The locking mechanisms are ambidextrous. The Micra and Skeletool CX are the most ambidextrous-friendly models since they fold out symmetrically. No competitor in the multitool space fully solves left-handed operation, so this is not unique to Leatherman.
FAQs
What multitool do the Navy Seals use?
Navy Seals and other US military units have used Leatherman multitools, with the Wave+ and Surge being the most commonly issued models. The Leatherman MUT is specifically designed for military and weapons maintenance. However, special operations units select tools based on mission needs, and some use SOG or Gerber models as well.
Are there better multitools than Leatherman?
Victorinox and Gerber produce quality multitools that compete with Leatherman. Victorinox SwissTools excel in build quality and scissors, while the Gerber Center-Drive offers superior screwdriver functionality. However, Leatherman stands out for its replaceable wire cutters, 25-year warranty, and overall tool selection. For most users, Leatherman offers the best combination of durability, warranty, and value.
What is the absolute best multitool?
The Leatherman Wave+ is widely considered the best overall multitool. It offers 18 tools in an 8.5-ounce frame, includes replaceable wire cutters and spring-action scissors, and carries a 25-year warranty. With over 5973 reviews and a 4.8-star rating, it is the best-selling Leatherman model and the top recommendation from EDC enthusiasts and trades professionals alike.
What is the best Leatherman of all time?
The Leatherman Wave+ is regarded as the best Leatherman ever made. It improved on the original Wave by adding replaceable wire cutters and refined the tool lineup to near perfection. The original PST from 1983 started the multitool category, and the Surge is the most capable, but the Wave+ hits the sweet spot of tool count, weight, and price that most users need.
Is the Leatherman Wave Plus worth it?
Yes, the Leatherman Wave+ is worth the investment for most buyers. At its price point, you get 18 tools, replaceable wire cutters, spring-action scissors, one-hand blade opening, and a 25-year warranty. It outperforms cheaper models like the Wingman in tool count, locking mechanisms, and build quality. For daily carry, trades work, or outdoor use, the Wave+ delivers value that justifies the cost over years of use.
Final Thoughts on the Best Leatherman Multitools
After testing all 9 models, my top recommendation remains the Leatherman Wave+ as the best Leatherman multitool for most people. It hits the sweet spot of tool count, weight, price, and durability that no other model matches. If you want premium blade steel and materials, the Wave Alpha with MagnaCut is worth the upgrade. For budget-conscious buyers, the Wingman delivers 80 percent of the Wave+ experience at half the price.
The beauty of the Leatherman lineup is that there is a right tool for every hand and every budget. The Skeletool CX solves lightweight carry, the Surge handles heavy-duty work, the Signal covers outdoor survival, and the Micra puts capable scissors on your keychain. Whatever your needs, one of these nine tools will serve you for decades thanks to that 25-year warranty.
Pick the model that matches how you will actually carry and use it. The best multitool is the one you have with you when you need it.