Quick, think multitool. What’s the first thing that pops into your head? For us, it’s the name Leatherman. Along with Swiss Army Knife and Gerber, they are one of the most tried-and-true brands of multitools and knives around, and one of the few names that everybody recognizes in a world full of quality blades. And as every good handyman needs a multitool, so if you haven’t one yet, we suggest you start looking at a Leatherman. With one by your side, you can take on just about any project or task that is thrown your way with confidence. So whether you’re looking for a knife for tuning up cars in the garage, survival situations or just tackling various tasks around the house, here are the 8 Best Leatherman Multitools to keep you prepared.
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The Beginner: Leatherman Sidekick
The Sidekick is the perfect choice for anyone who wants an all-around, easy-to-use multitool. Constructed from beautiful stainless stool, the Sidekick It has 14 tools, including multiple knife blades, pliers, a screwdriver, wire cutters, bottle opener, a file, saw and even a ruler. Many tools can be deployed with one hand, and the blades lock safely into place. Not the most advanced multitool, but there’s not a lot of everyday situations it can’t handle. Measures 3.8”, weighs 7 ounces, and is ready to get you into the multitool game. (Leatherman also includes a 25-year warranty on all their knives, so keep that in mind).
The Workhorse: Leatherman Surge
The surge is one of Leatherman’s largest and toughest multitools. It’s made of solid stainless steel, comes in black oxide, and weighs 12 ounces at 4.5 inches long. There are 21 tools inside, including 2 pairs of pliers, 3 wire cutters, crimper, stripper, 420HC blade and serrated blade, a saw, awl, scissors, and ruler, among others, like a diamond-coated file. Again, there’s practically no job this knife can’t do. It also features a blade exchanger, which lets you select either a two-sided file or Leatherman’s renowned open-tooth saw, both of which are included with the knife. Grab this one if you never know what project you need to tackle.
The Ultralight: Leatherman Skeletool
The Skeletool provides versatility and tools without all the weight; it comes in at only 5 ounces, and contains 7 tools: needlenose pliers, regular pliers, hard-wire cutters, regular wire cutters, 420HC stainless combo knife, a carabiner that doubles as a bottle opener, and a large bit driver. The blade can be deployed with just your thumb, and a safety lock keeps it firmly in place. The stainless handle has holes drilled in it that both cut down on weight and give the tool that distinctive skeletal appearance. If you just need the basics and don’t want to lug around a lot of weight, the Skeletool fits the bill.
The One-Hand Wonder: Leatherman OHT
The OHT is designed to be used with one-hand and one hand only. Every single tool is designed for this purpose and delivers; the OHT features two pairs of spring-loaded pliers and two wire cutters that can be deployed with one hand and stay firmly in place. There’s even an oxygen tank wrench and a strap cutter, deployable with one hand, to ensure nothing catches you off guard, as well as the trusty 420HC stainless blade, serrated knife, and saw. Don’t forget the cleaning rod and brush adapter. This thing is built for quick use in tactical situations, which explains the cool tactical tan grip (also in black) and MOLLE sheath.
The EOD Tool: Leatherman MUT EOD
EOD is an extremely specialized, technical field, with little room for error. You need a knife that can handle any demand of the job and won’t fail you at the wrong time. The MUT EOD is built specifically for this purpose, with everything you need to get the job done: a military spec cap crimper, electrical crimper, bolt override tool, replaceable cutting hook, and even a replaceable C4 punch. That’s in addition to the standard tools and bombproof construction. You can count on the MUT EOD to have your back when you need it most, and it’s the best EOD multitool we’ve laid hands on.
The Keychain Multitool: Leatherman Squirt PS4
Tiny and practical, the Squirt PS4 is 2” long and belongs on your keychain, where it adds some welcome utility without weighing you down or adding too much bulk. At 2 ounces, you barely notice it. It’s got a 1.6”-but-sturdy 420HC knife, spring action wire cutters and scissors, and spring-action pliers (regular and needlenose) that make quick work of small jobs. Two screwdrivers, a bottle opener, and wood/metal file round out the finger-sized ensemble. In a world of dinky little keychain multitools, the Squirt PS4 is a reliable piece of hardware and adds some utility to your keychain, so you’re never without the tools you need.
The Powerhouse Pliers: Leatherman Wave
The Leatherman Wave is the most popular Leatherman tool, and for good reason; it’s got all the tools you need for the most jobs, with outside-accessible blades you can deploy with one hand. Our favorite part, however, are the extremely strong pliers; Leatherman engineered these bad boys with an elliptical plier design that can withstand 133% the load of other models, so it holds up to even the most extreme of jobs. So when you come across those objects that won’t budge and those thick wires that just won’t snap, the Wave will make quick work of it. Durable, strong and hefty, it’s still only 8 ounces
The Original: Leatherman PST
Rounding out our list is the multitool that started it all – the Leatherman PST. PST stands for Pocket Survival Tool, and with 12 tools in packed in a simple, no-frills piece of 100% stainless, it’s a timeless tool for tackling everything your everyday or survival needs dictate. It’s got two pairs of pliers, two wire cutters, five screwdrivers, a wood/metal file, 420HC blade measuring just under 4”, awl and 8” ruler, all neatly package into a 4” case weighing 5 ounces. If you’re just looking for a minimalist, strictly utilitarian survivalist tool with a bit of old-school simplicity, the PST is the one you’re looking for. Carrying case included.
For more multitool info, see Bug Out Bill Tactical Tool!
