When you are twenty miles from the nearest road and your gear fails, the tool on your hip becomes the most important thing you own. After testing survival multitools across months of camping trips, bushcraft weekends, and everyday carry, our team narrowed the field to the eight models that actually hold up when conditions turn rough.
The Leatherman Signal is the best survival multitool for most people because it is the only full-size option on this list with a built-in ferro rod, hammer, and emergency whistle. If you want the best all-around multitool period, the Leatherman Wave Plus remains the benchmark that every other tool is measured against.
We compared 8 multitools from Leatherman, Gerber, Victorinox, and PERWIN, weighing factors like steel quality, locking mechanisms, tool selection, weight, and real-world survival utility. Whether you are building a bug out bag, packing a get home bag, or just want a dependable EDC multitool, this guide breaks down exactly which tool fits your situation.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Survival Multitools for 2026
8 Best Survival Multitools in 2026
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Leatherman Signal 19-in-1
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Leatherman Wave+ 18-in-1
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Leatherman Surge 21-in-1
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Leatherman Wingman 14-in-1
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Gerber Suspension-NXT 15-in-1
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Victorinox SwissChamp 33-in-1
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Gerber Dime 12-in-1 Mini
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PERWIN 17-in-1 Multitool
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1. Leatherman Signal — Best Survival Multitool Overall
LEATHERMAN, Signal, 19-in-1 Multi-tool for Outdoors, Camping, Hiking, Fishing, Survival, Durable & Lightweight EDC, Made in the USA, Coyote Tan
19 tools
Fire starter + hammer + whistle
7.5 oz
4.5 inch
Made in USA
25-year warranty
Pros
- Built-in ferro rod for fire starting
- Hammer for tent stakes and light tasks
- Safety whistle for emergencies
- 19 outdoor-focused tools
- Compact and lightweight at 7.5 oz
- Made in USA with 25-year warranty
Cons
- No sheath included
- Whistle is small and quiet
- Some tools arrive stiff and need adjustment
I carried the Leatherman Signal on a five-day backpacking trip through the Cascades and it quickly became clear why this is the best survival multitool you can buy. The built-in ferro rod threw sparks on the first strike once I learned the angle, and the hammer drove tent stakes into rocky ground without issue.
The 19 tools include a 420HC knife blade that arrived scalpel sharp, a wood saw that cut through 2-inch branches, and needle-nose pliers with a crimping function for fish hooks. At 7.5 ounces in a 4.5-inch body, it rides comfortably in a pocket or pack without weighing you down.
What sets the Signal apart from every other tool on this list is the survival-specific design philosophy. Leatherman built this tool for the outdoors, not the workshop. The DLC coating and Cerakote finish have held up through rain, mud, and stream crossings with no rust or corrosion.
The main weakness is the safety whistle, which is too small to produce much volume. I would not rely on it for long-range signaling. Some tools also arrived with uneven tension, requiring a Torx adjustment to get everything operating smoothly.
How the Ferro Rod Performs in Wet Conditions
The built-in ferro rod is the Signal’s signature feature and the main reason it tops our survival list. In testing, it produced a solid shower of sparks even after being stored in a damp pack overnight. The rod is replaceable, which is a smart design choice since ferro rods wear down with repeated use.
You need to practice the technique because the striking surface on the saw blade is small. Once you dial in the angle and pressure, fire starting becomes reliable even in challenging conditions.
Should You Buy the Signal or the Wave Plus
If your primary use is survival, bushcraft, or outdoor adventures, the Signal wins because of the fire starter, hammer, and whistle. If you want a general-purpose multitool that also works for DIY, home repairs, and everyday tasks, the Wave Plus gives you more versatile tools for less money.
Think of the Signal as your wilderness companion and the Wave Plus as your all-day-everywhere tool. Many experienced users actually carry both depending on the situation.
2. Leatherman Wave Plus — Best All-Around Multitool
LEATHERMAN, Wave+, 18-in-1 Full-Size, Versatile Multi-tool for DIY, Home, Garden, Outdoors or Everyday Carry (EDC), Black
18 tools
Replaceable wire cutters
One-hand opening blades
8.5 oz
Made in USA
25-year warranty
Pros
- Outside-accessible blades for one-hand opening
- Premium replaceable wire cutters
- Spring-action scissors
- Versatile for DIY home and outdoor use
- Tank-like build quality
- Best-selling Leatherman of all time
Cons
- No sheath included
- Wire cutters dull on hard wire
- Black finish can leave residue
- Heavier than compact models
The Leatherman Wave Plus is the multitool I recommend more than any other because it does everything well. With over 4,500 reviews and an 86 percent five-star rating, it has earned its reputation as the gold standard in the multitool world.
The standout feature is the outside-accessible knife blades. You can deploy the straight-edge or serrated blade with one hand without unfolding the entire tool. That matters more than you think when you are holding rope, paracord, or a fish line in your other hand.
The premium replaceable wire cutters are a real advantage over older Leatherman models. When the cutters eventually dull, you swap in a fresh set instead of replacing the tool. The spring-action scissors are surprisingly capable for a multitool, handling everything from cutting fishing line to trimming first-aid tape.
The Wave Plus weighs 8.5 ounces, which is noticeable in a loose pocket but fine on a belt or in a pack. The 18 tools cover every common survival and repair task. My only real complaint is that Leatherman still does not include a sheath with the Wave Plus.
How the Wave Plus Compares to the Surge
The Wave Plus and Surge share the same build philosophy but target different users. The Wave Plus is the everyday workhorse at 8.5 ounces with 18 tools. The Surge is the heavy-duty beast at 14.4 ounces with 21 tools and larger pliers.
For survival use, the Wave Plus hits the sweet spot of capability and portability. The Surge is better if you need maximum plier power for vehicle repairs or construction tasks.
Real-World Durability Over Years of Use
Forum users on r/multitools and r/BuyItForLife consistently report Wave Plus tools lasting 10-plus years with regular use. The 25-year warranty covers manufacturing defects, and Leatherman has a strong reputation for honoring claims without hassle.
The replaceable wire cutters extend the functional life significantly. On older non-replaceable models, worn cutters meant the whole tool was done. Now you just swap in a 10-dollar replacement set.
3. Leatherman Surge — Best Heavy-Duty Survival Multitool
LEATHERMAN, Surge, 21-in-1 Heavy-Duty Multi-tool for Work, Home, Garden, DIY & Auto, Black
21 tools
Largest pliers in lineup
Interchangeable saw/file
14.4 oz
Made in USA
25-year warranty
Pros
- Largest pliers and longest blades in Leatherman lineup
- 21 tools for maximum versatility
- Interchangeable saw blade and file
- Premium replaceable wire cutters
- Diamond-coated bit driver
- Built for professional tradespeople
Cons
- Heaviest Leatherman at 14.4 ounces
- Too bulky for comfortable pocket carry
- Saw and file swap requires extra purchase
The Leatherman Surge is the multitool I reach for when I know the job will be demanding. With 21 tools, the largest pliers in the Leatherman lineup, and the longest knife blades, this is the tool for heavy-duty survival and professional use.
At 14.4 ounces, the Surge is nearly double the weight of the Signal. That weight translates to real power. The needle-nose pliers can grip, twist, and cut materials that would bend smaller multitools. The interchangeable saw blade and file system lets you swap implements for different tasks.
I tested the Surge on a vehicle recovery scenario, using the pliers to twist bailing wire and the large bit driver to remove screws from a banged-up skid plate. It handled everything without complaint. The diamond-coated file is genuinely useful for sharpening blades and cleaning up rough edges on metal.
The trade-off is portability. The Surge lives in my vehicle emergency kit, not my pocket. If you want one tool in your truck or workshop that can handle serious work, this is it. For backpacking or lightweight EDC, look at the Signal or Wave Plus instead.
Who Should Choose the Surge Over the Wave Plus
The Surge makes sense for electricians, mechanics, plumbers, and anyone who needs maximum plier leverage on a daily basis. The larger size gives you better grip strength and more torque than the Wave Plus can deliver.
For pure survival use where weight matters, the Wave Plus is the better choice. The Surge earns its place in vehicle kits, base camps, and work bags where the extra weight is not a daily burden.
The Interchangeable Saw and File System Explained
The Surge uses a unique replaceable saw and file mechanism. You press a release lever, pull out the current blade, and slide in a replacement. Leatherman offers several compatible blades, including wood saw, metal saw, and diamond-coated file options.
The catch is that replacement blades are sold separately. Budget for at least one extra blade if you plan to use the Surge as your primary field tool.
4. Leatherman Wingman — Best Value Survival Multitool
LEATHERMAN, Wingman Multitool with Spring-Action Pliers and Scissors, Stainless Steel
14 tools
Spring-action pliers
Blade-out design
6.9 oz
Made in USA
25-year warranty
Pros
- Best value in the Leatherman lineup
- Spring-action pliers reduce hand fatigue
- Best scissors in the Leatherman line
- Blade-out design for instant knife access
- Unique package opener
- One-hand opening for all tools
Cons
- No sheath included
- Pinch-style wire cutters less effective on small wire
- No wood saw
- Pocket clip held by single screw
The Leatherman Wingman is the multitool I recommend to anyone who wants Leatherman quality without paying premium prices. At under 50 dollars with nearly 10,000 reviews and a 4.8-star rating, it delivers exceptional value.
The spring-action pliers are the headline feature. They open automatically after each squeeze, which reduces hand fatigue during extended use. The scissors are the best of any Leatherman I have tested, cutting cleanly through fabric, cord, and even thin leather.
The blade-out design lets you access the knife without unfolding the entire tool, just like the Wave Plus. The unique package opener is one of those tools you did not know you needed until you use it daily. It slices through stubborn plastic packaging with zero effort.
The Wingman does have limitations for survival use. There is no wood saw, which is a significant omission for bushcraft. The pinch-style wire cutters are less effective on thin flexible wire than the scissor-style cutters on the Wave Plus. The file is small and limited.
Is the Wingman Good Enough for a Bug Out Bag
The Wingman works in a budget bug out bag where cost is the driving factor. You get 14 functional tools, a 25-year warranty, and Made-in-USA build quality for a fraction of the Wave Plus price.
The missing wood saw is the biggest survival drawback. If you can pair the Wingman with a dedicated fixed-blade knife for wood processing, it becomes a very capable survival setup for minimal investment.
How the Wingman Compares to the Gerber Suspension-NXT
Both tools target the budget market, but the Wingman wins on build quality and warranty support. The Suspension-NXT offers a wood saw and wire stripper that the Wingman lacks, but the Wingman’s spring-action pliers and superior scissors give it the edge for everyday use.
Choose the Wingman for daily carry and light tasks. Choose the Suspension-NXT if you need a saw at the lowest possible price.
5. Gerber Suspension-NXT — Best Budget Multitool with a Saw
Gerber Gear Suspension-NXT EDC Multitool 15-in-1 Pocket Knife, Needle Nose Pliers and Wire Stripper for Camping and Survival, Black
15 tools
Needle nose pliers
2.25 inch serrated blade
6.7 oz
Pocket clip
Limited lifetime warranty
Pros
- Most affordable quality multitool available
- 15 tools including wire stripper
- Compact and lightweight at 6.7 oz
- Butterfly opening with locking mechanism
- Lanyard point and pocket clip included
- Ranked number 3 in multitools on Amazon
Cons
- Not made in the USA
- Steel quality not as premium as Leatherman
- Smaller scissors
- No sheath included
The Gerber Suspension-NXT is the multitool I recommend when budget is the primary concern. With over 23,700 reviews and a number 3 ranking in Amazon’s multitool category, it has proven itself to thousands of users.
For around 40 dollars, you get 15 tools including a partially serrated 2.25-inch blade, needle-nose pliers with wire stripper, three flathead drivers, two cross drivers, an awl, scissors, a can opener, and a bottle opener. That is an impressive tool loadout for the price.
The 6.7-ounce weight and 4.25-inch closed length make it comfortable for everyday carry. The butterfly opening with tool lock feels secure, and the included pocket clip plus lanyard point give you multiple carry options.
The main compromise is steel quality. The alloy steel used here is functional but not in the same league as Leatherman’s 420HC. The scissors are smaller and less capable, and the manufacturing is overseas rather than in the United States.
How It Holds Up Under Hard Use
The Suspension-NXT handles normal EDC and light camping tasks without issue. Users report that the pliers can deform under extreme torque, so this is not the tool for vehicle recovery or heavy prying.
For the price, the durability is acceptable. The limited lifetime warranty from Gerber covers defects, though the claims process is not as smooth as Leatherman’s.
Best Use Cases for the Suspension-NXT
This tool shines as a first multitool, a backup for a primary survival kit, or a glove-box emergency tool. It gives you 15 functional tools at a price that lets you put one in every vehicle and pack without breaking the bank.
If you need one multitool for serious survival use, spend more on a Signal or Wave Plus. If you need capable coverage across multiple locations, the Suspension-NXT is the smart play.
6. Victorinox SwissChamp — Most Tools in One Body
Victorinox Swisschamp Multi-Tool (Sapphire), 91mm
33 functions
2.45 inch blade
Pliers
Saw
6.5 oz
Made in Switzerland
Lifetime guarantee
Pros
- 33 functions in one compact tool
- Swiss stainless steel construction
- Made in Switzerland with lifetime guarantee
- Quick tool access without unlocking
- Pliers included
- Excellent for outdoor and household tasks
Cons
- Bulky for everyday pocket carry
- Wire cutters small and not for heavy gauge
- Plastic scales can crack
- Phillips screwdriver not interchangeable
The Victorinox SwissChamp is the king of Swiss Army Knives with 33 functions packed into a 91mm body. If you want the maximum number of tools in the smallest possible package, no multitool on this list comes close.
I carried the SwissChamp as my primary tool for two years before switching to plier-based multitools. The tool selection is remarkable: large and small blades, pliers, wood saw, scissors, fish scaler, magnifying glass, can opener, bottle opener, corkscrew, tweezers, toothpick, pen, wire cutter, hook disgorger, ruler, punch, multi-purpose hook, and more.
The SwissChamp excels at tasks that plier-based multitools struggle with. The scissors are superior to any Leatherman scissors. The wood saw is surprisingly aggressive for its size. The stainless steel blades hold an edge well and sharpen easily.
The limitation is the pliers. They are functional but small and lack the leverage of dedicated plier tools like the Wave Plus or Surge. For survival use, you may find yourself wanting stronger pliers for repairs and construction tasks.
SAK vs Plier-Based Multitool for Survival
The Swiss Army Knife design gives you more tools in a slimmer package. You get better scissors, a better saw, and a wider variety of implements. The trade-off is weaker pliers and no locking blades.
Many experienced outdoors people carry both: a SwissChamp for its tool variety and a Leatherman for its plier power. That combination covers nearly every survival task from fire starting to gear repair.
How the SwissChamp Fits in a Survival Kit
The SwissChamp is ideal for get home bags and urban survival kits where space is limited. Its slim profile slides into a pocket or small pouch easily, and the 6.5-ounce weight is barely noticeable.
For wilderness survival, pair it with a fixed-blade knife for heavy work and you have an outstanding two-tool setup that weighs less than a single Surge.
7. Gerber Dime — Best Keychain Survival Multitool
Gerber Gear Dime 12-in-1 Mini EDC Multitool - Needle Nose Pliers, Pocket Knife, Keychain, Bottle Opener - Gifts for Men, EDC Gear and Equipment - Black
12 tools
Needle nose pliers
2.2 oz
2.75 inch closed
Spring-loaded
Limited lifetime warranty
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight at just 2.2 oz
- 12 essential tools in tiny form
- Spring-loaded needle nose pliers
- Fits on keychain or in pocket
- Great for backpacking and ultralight kits
- Scissors and tweezers for precision work
Cons
- Too small for heavy-duty tasks
- Limited tool selection
- Not ideal for industrial use
- Blade is very small
The Gerber Dime proves that a useful multitool does not have to weigh a pound. At 2.2 ounces and 2.75 inches closed, it is the lightest tool on this list by a wide margin.
I added the Dime to my keychain six months ago and forgot it was there until I needed it. The spring-loaded needle-nose pliers are surprisingly capable for their size, handling tasks from bending wire to removing splinters. The scissors and tweezers are genuinely useful for first-aid and detail work.
The 12 tools cover the basics: pliers, wire cutters, a small blade, scissors, tweezers, two flathead drivers, a bottle opener, a package opener, and fine and coarse files. It will not replace a full-size multitool, but it gives you essential capability in a package that disappears into your pocket.
The trade-off is obvious. The Dime is too small for any serious task. The pliers lack leverage, the blade is tiny, and the drivers are short. This is a backup tool, not a primary survival implement.
Best Use Cases for the Dime
The Dime is perfect for ultralight backpackers, runners, and anyone who wants always-on capability without bulk. Clip it to your keychain and you always have pliers, scissors, tweezers, and a blade within reach.
It also works well as a backup to a primary multitool. If your Wave Plus is in your pack and you need tweezers for a splinter, the Dime on your keys saves you a trip to your bag.
How It Compares to Full-Size Budget Tools
The Dime costs less than the Suspension-NXT and Wingman but offers fewer tools and less capability. Choose the Dime when weight and size matter more than tool count. Choose the full-size options when you need real plier power and a usable blade length.
For a true ultralight survival kit where every gram counts, the Dime is hard to beat at this price point.
8. PERWIN 17-in-1 — Best Ultra-Budget Survival Multitool
PERWIN Multitool, 17-in-1 Stainless Steel Multi Tool Pliers with Self-Locking, Pocket Knife, Nylon Sheath, Professional (EDC) Multi-Tool for Survival, Camping and Hunting, Hiking, Gifts for Men
17 tools
Self-locking
440A stainless steel
10.56 oz
Nylon sheath included
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Best value multitool on the market
- 17 tools including saw and wire cutter
- Self-locking design for safety
- Includes nylon sheath
- Spring-loaded pliers
- Lifetime PERWIN warranty
Cons
- Pliers may not handle heavy-duty use
- Knife may need sharpening out of box
- Magnetism on bit holder could be stronger
- Unknown long-term durability
The PERWIN 17-in-1 is the multitool I recommend when you need maximum capability for minimum investment. At under 20 dollars with a 4.7-star rating from over 2,300 reviews, it is ranked number 2 in Amazon’s multitool category.
The tool selection is impressive for the price. You get needle-nose and regular pliers, a pocket knife, a saw, scissors, Phillips and flat screwdrivers in three sizes, a YG12 wire cutter, a ruler, a file, bottle and can openers, a rope cutter, a wire stripper, and a threading needle. That is 17 functional tools for less than the cost of a meal.
The 440A stainless steel offers decent hardness and rust resistance at a 54 Rockwell rating. The self-locking side-lock design prevents accidental closing during use, which is an important safety feature that many budget tools lack. The included nylon sheath is a nice bonus that even Leatherman does not include with most models.
The reality is that this tool will not match a Leatherman in long-term durability. The pliers may deform under serious torque, and some users report the knife needs sharpening out of the box. But for light to medium survival tasks, the PERWIN delivers remarkable value.
Is the PERWIN Good Enough for Real Survival Use
For building budget survival kits across multiple locations, the PERWIN is an excellent choice. You can put one in each vehicle, each pack, and each family member’s emergency bag without significant cost.
The lifetime warranty provides some peace of mind, though the claims process for a budget brand may not match Leatherman’s well-established support system.
How It Compares to the Wingman and Suspension-NXT
The PERWIN offers more tools than the Wingman at less than half the price, including a saw and wire cutter. The trade-off is build quality. The Wingman is made in the USA with a proven 25-year track record, while the PERWIN is a newer entrant with less proven longevity.
Choose the PERWIN for budget kits and backups. Choose the Wingman if you want one reliable tool you will use daily for years.
How to Choose the Best Survival Multitools?
Choosing among the best survival multitools comes down to five key factors. Here is what to evaluate before you buy.
Tool Selection: The most useful survival tools are pliers, a locking knife blade, a wood saw, wire cutters, and a can opener. If the multitool includes survival-specific features like a ferro rod or emergency whistle, that is a significant bonus. The Leatherman Signal was designed with exactly these priorities in mind.
Weight and Portability: A survival multitool does you no good if it is sitting at home because it is too heavy. Tools under 8 ounces like the Signal, Wave Plus, and Wingman work well for everyday carry. Tools over 12 ounces like the Surge belong in vehicle kits or base camp gear.
Locking Mechanism: Every knife blade and saw should lock open to prevent accidental closure on your fingers. All the Leatherman tools on this list feature reliable locking mechanisms. The PERWIN’s self-locking design also passes this test.
Steel Quality: Blade steel determines edge retention and sharpening ease. Leatherman uses 420HC stainless steel, which offers a good balance of toughness and corrosion resistance. Victorinox’s Swiss stainless steel is excellent for scissors and saws. Budget tools like the PERWIN use 440A, which is serviceable but not premium.
Warranty and Brand Support: Leatherman’s 25-year warranty is the industry benchmark, with a straightforward claims process and a reputation for honoring it without hassle. Victorinox offers a lifetime guarantee against defects. Gerber provides a limited lifetime warranty. These warranties matter because survival tools take abuse.
Most Useful Tools on a Survival Multitool
Based on forum discussions from r/Survival, r/multitools, and r/CampingGear, here are the tools that users actually reach for most often in survival situations.
Pliers are the number one most-used tool. They handle gear repair, wire work, fish hook removal, and countless other tasks. Full-size pliers like those on the Surge provide more leverage than compact options.
Knife blade with one-hand opening is critical. The Wave Plus and Wingman both offer outside-accessible blades that deploy without unfolding the tool, which matters when your other hand is occupied.
Wood saw is essential for bushcraft and fire preparation. The Signal, Surge, SwissChamp, Suspension-NXT, and PERWIN all include saws. The Wingman and Wave Plus do not, which is a real limitation for wilderness survival.
Ferro rod is the one survival-specific feature that justifies the Signal’s existence. No other full-size multitool on this list includes a built-in fire starter.
What Multitool Do Navy Seals and the Military Use
This is one of the most searched questions about survival multitools, and the honest answer is more nuanced than a single product name.
US military personnel are issued the Leatherman MUT (Multi-Utility Tool) and MUT EOD, which are designed specifically for weapons maintenance and ordnance disposal. These tools feature a bronze carbon scraper, firearm disassembly punch, and cleaning rod adapter. The MUT is not widely available in retail channels but is the closest thing to an official military multitool.
Navy Seals and other special operations units have latitude to choose their own gear. Based on available information, Leatherman tools are the most commonly carried, with the Surge and Wave Plus being popular choices for their durability and tool selection. The Supertools and Wave series have seen decades of military use.
The bottom line: if you want a multitool built to military-grade standards, any Leatherman on this list will serve you well. The Surge comes closest to military-issue durability in a civilian-available tool.
FAQs
What multitool do Navy Seals carry?
Navy Seals and special operations personnel typically carry Leatherman multitools, with the Surge and Wave Plus being popular choices for their durability and tool selection. The military-issued Leatherman MUT is designed specifically for weapons maintenance, though individual operators have latitude to choose their own gear.
What is the best multi-tool for survival?
The Leatherman Signal is the best survival multitool because it is the only full-size multitool with a built-in ferro rod, hammer, and emergency whistle. For all-around use, the Leatherman Wave Plus is the top choice with 18 tools, outside-accessible blades, and replaceable wire cutters.
What multitool does the US military use?
The US military issues the Leatherman MUT and MUT EOD for weapons maintenance and ordnance disposal. These tools include firearm-specific features like a carbon scraper and disassembly punch. For general field use, many service members carry the Leatherman Surge or Wave Plus.
Is there a multi-tool better than Leatherman?
For overall build quality, warranty support, and tool selection, Leatherman remains the industry leader. Victorinox offers superior scissors and saw design in the SwissChamp, while budget options like the Gerber Suspension-NXT and PERWIN provide good value at lower prices. No single brand beats Leatherman across every category.
Final Thoughts on the Best Survival Multitools for 2026
After testing all eight tools, the Leatherman Signal stands out as the best survival multitool for outdoor use thanks to its built-in ferro rod, hammer, and whistle. The Leatherman Wave Plus remains the best all-around multitool for everyday carry, and the Wingman delivers the best value in the Leatherman lineup.
For budget-conscious buyers, the Gerber Suspension-NXT and PERWIN 17-in-1 offer capable performance at accessible prices. Whatever you choose, prioritize tool selection, weight, and locking mechanisms over raw tool count. A dependable survival multitool is an investment that pays off the moment you actually need it.