Best Tools From Leatherman

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LEATHERMAN WINGMAN MULTI-TOOL
Test Winner: LEATHERMAN WINGMAN MULTI-TOOL
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Whether you are camping, hiking, working on your house, or even fishing a multi-purpose tool is just what you need to help at any point in time. The idea of combining multiple tools into one easy-to-handle package is great especially when they are so compact and fit practically anywhere. Leatherman is a very durable company that is known for making high-quality multipurpose tools since 1983. The best tools from Leatherman are truly a cut above the rest in regards to practicality, durability, and longevity. They are like a Swiss Army knife but on steroids, as they offer a variety of tools in one, and they are portable in case you need to complete a quick fix on the go. Below we have listed the top ten best Leatherman tools in the market today and included details for each product to help you decide which one suits your needs best.

Standout Picks

LEATHERMAN WINGMAN MULTI-TOOL
This LEATHERMAN - Wingman Multitool is a well-known tool for projects or for everyday use. It is very fit for functionality as it features 14 tools so you are sure to have what you need. It comes with a 25-year limited warranty and always make sure they give you dependable service. It is a compact small size that is very lightweight and allows you to be able to take with you anywhere!
Amazon Link
$69.95
LEATHERMAN SUPER TOOL 300
This beast of a multi-tool serves you best when you need to have the right tool at the right time-- which is pretty much all the time, right? Besides the few design quirks mentioned above, Super Tool 300 is a very well put together and thought out multi-tool. In addition to the 420 high carbon steel used, the addition of locking features, a secure lanyard ring, and overall size and features make it a great choice.
LEATHERMAN SIDEKICK
This Leatherman tool is a great choice for everyday use both in the outdoors and the office or home setting. It provides many of the functions of the more robust models at a fraction of the weight and price. If you’re looking for your first multi-tool, this is a great choice. Despite its lower price, the basic design and the 420 high carbon stainless steel that is used makes for a very sturdy and reliable tool. In addition, the rounded handles and easy to open knife blades mean that this tool might just replace your favorite pocket knife before too long.
LEATHERMAN OHT
If you’re looking for a workhouse of a multi-tool that is designed to help you do your job safely and effectively, this entry on our list may just be the ticket. Overall this tool is well planned out, and the most often used tools are easily accessible. In addition, the use of 420 high carbon steel makes for a stronger and more lightweight option compared to some other multi-tools available on the market.
LEATHERMAN SKELETOOL CX
If you’re looking for a light, and easy to handle multi-tool that gives you just what you need and nothing else, the Leatherman Skeletool CX Multi-tool is something that you should consider. This multi-tool is all about going back to the basics, and the overall commitment to quality is no exception. In this tool, Leatherman combined the innovative use of carbon fiber with light and strong steel to make sure that the tool was lightweight and only contained what was needed.
LEATHERMAN REBAR
Designed for those that want the essential tools at their fingertips, the Leatherman Rebar tool is a great choice based on the idea that form and function can work in harmony. Overall this is a fairly well-designed tool, although the absence of tools on the outside is a bit of a design flaw in our opinion. Overall though, the material used and the craftsmanship is fairly good.
LEATHERMAN TREAD BRACELET
Love the idea of multi-tool, but hate the fact that you can rarely bring them onto a plane, and having a bulky weight in your pocket? The Leatherman Tread Bracelet may just be what you’re looking for. Combining a unique fashion sense with a TSA approved multi-tool, this is one bracelet you’ll love to wear. Overall the design of this bracelet is innovative a fairly straight forward at the same time While it is not as sturdy as some of the other tools from Leatherman on this list, it is still well made.
LEATHERMAN SURGE
The Surge Multi-Tool is one of those devices from Leatherman that seems to have the answers to all the right questions when it comes to practicality and usefulness. While the Surge is certainly quite durable, the overall quality of the manufacturing does leave a bit to be desired. The springs felt a bit weaker than normal, and the folding mechanisms felt stiff even after lubrication and use.
LEATHERMAN CHARGE TTI
Combining some of the most requested tools from its customers, Leatherman has created one of the most versatile and easy to use multi-tools on the market today. Need to fix something in a snap? Chances are you’ll be using the Leatherman Charge TTI. Overall this particular tool from Leatherman lives up to the 25-year warranty offered by the company with little trouble. The materials used in the making of this tool include 420 high carbon steel and a titanium comfort-sculpted handle to start. This is one tool that has a good chance of withstanding anything you throw at it.
LEATHERMAN FREESTYLE
Love the idea of multi-tool, but not a huge fan of something bulky and hard to manage? Then the Leatherman Freestyle Multi-Tool may just what you need. This Leatherman tool features their standard 420 high carbon steel and is laid out with great efficiency, with the tools being accessible from both inside and outside the multi-tool.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Ease of Use

In truth, if a tool is difficult to use, it won’t be used. Therefore it’s important to look at the factors that dictate how easy it is to use in a given situation. Are the implements in the multi-tools easy to deploy? How hard is it to get to the tool that you need? Is the handle comfortable in the hands? These are all questions that we asked when looking for the ten best tools from Leatherman.

Not surprisingly, the tools on this list had a number of design features, such as having a one-handed operation or the tools being accessible from the outside that increased the ease of use dramatically. While there were still some exceptions for individual tools, for the most part, each one of these multi-tools can be opened and used without too much of a hassle.

Accessories

Every situation demands different things, and having the right tool for the job is extremely important. That’s what makes multi-tools so popular in a way. It’s nice to have a collection of tools in your hand to use at a moment’s notice. However, sometimes having too many tools, or even the wrong tools can be more of a hindrance than anything else.

Thankfully, these tools from Leatherman have some of the most used and practical tools in their arsenal. Items that the avid outdoors enthusiast or even someone working around their home would use. Things such as the hex wrenches included in the Trend Bracelet, or the needle nose pliers that are pretty much standard in the rest of the list.

Size

These tools from Leatherman are designed to be carried on the person and to be handled by the individual.  So it’s important to consider their overall size and weight when thinking about making a purchase.  The last thing you want is to have a multi-tool that is useless because of its size.

Durability

Of course, these multi-tools need to be sturdy. The people using them will certainly be putting them through quite a bit. While not every entry on this list is cut out for the most rugged of adventures, for the average user, these tools fit the bill quite well. Not only are the implements made from high-quality stainless steel, but they have protective handles and an overall design that is made to withstand a great deal of abuse.

Top 10 Picks

1. LEATHERMAN WINGMAN MULTI-TOOL

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$69.95
LEATHERMAN WINGMAN MULTI-TOOL
Amazon Link

This LEATHERMAN - Wingman Multitool is a well-known tool for projects or for everyday use. It is very fit for functionality as it features 14 tools so you are sure to have what you need. It comes with a 25-year limited warranty and always make sure they give you dependable service. It is a compact small size that is very lightweight and allows you to be able to take with you anywhere!

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Ease of Use
This LEATHERMAN - Wingman Multitool with Spring-Action Pliers and Scissors is very easy to use and is good for any time. You just need to remove the knife from your pocket clip and it is very easy to access even if it is in your pocket with how light and compact it is.

Accessories
This LEATHERMAN - Wingman comes with 14 tools including a knife if needed, pliers to open anything needed, screwdrivers for if you need to screw in anything or unscrew anything, wire cutters, a wire stripper, scissors to cut anything needed, a package opener, bottle and can openers, a file if you need to sharpen anything, and a ruler. You can just slide each tool out and once finished with it slide it back in. The pliers are on the main head of the tool which allows you to use it at any point in time.

Size
This LEATHERMAN - Wingman Multitool with Spring-Action Pliers and Scissors measures in at 3.8 x 1 x 2 in and weighs 6.88 ounces. It is great for being a multi-functional tool and is so compact that it can fit in your pocket, your purse or even on your key chain.

Durability
This is a great pocket-sized, lightweight, stainless steel multi-tool; the Wingman features an outside-accessible one-hand opening blade and even newly designed spring-action pliers and scissors with 12 other tools. Leatherman is a very high-quality durable company that is known for making great multi-purpose tools since 1983.

Amazon Link
$69.95

2. LEATHERMAN SUPER TOOL 300

LEATHERMAN SUPER TOOL 300
Amazon Link

This beast of a multi-tool serves you best when you need to have the right tool at the right time-- which is pretty much all the time, right? Besides the few design quirks mentioned above, Super Tool 300 is a very well put together and thought out multi-tool. In addition to the 420 high carbon steel used, the addition of locking features, a secure lanyard ring, and overall size and features make it a great choice.

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Ease of Use
While it is filled with very useful tools, the overall design and orientation of the tools make them a little bit harder to use than other examples on this list. The locking mechanism on some of the tools seems a little faulty. In addition, the tools found on the inside, such as the screwdrivers and can opener come out in a clump, which makes choosing one a bit problematic at times.

Accessories
The tools featured in this Leatherman tool make it a great companion for those people who find themselves is a wide array of situations. Included tools are the needle nose and standard pliers, replaceable wire cutters, replaceable hard-wire cutters, stranded wire cutters, electrical crimper, wire stripper, both a straight edge and serrated blades, a saw, an awl with a thread loop, a can opener, a bottle opener, a wood/metal file, and three sizes of screwdrivers.

Size
Despite the number of tools contained in this particular multi-tool, it is deceptively small. It measures 4.5 inches in length when closed, and weighs just under 10 ounces.

Durability
When it comes to durability, this is a hard multi-tool to match. Not only does it have some serious heft to it, but it is also fairly well put together. It truly is a beast of a tool. If you are looking for a great workhorse that has the durability to go the distance and the tools to help you when you get there, the Super Tool 300 is a great choice.

3. LEATHERMAN SIDEKICK

Where to buy
LEATHERMAN SIDEKICK
Amazon Link

This Leatherman tool is a great choice for everyday use both in the outdoors and the office or home setting. It provides many of the functions of the more robust models at a fraction of the weight and price. If you’re looking for your first multi-tool, this is a great choice. Despite its lower price, the basic design and the 420 high carbon stainless steel that is used makes for a very sturdy and reliable tool. In addition, the rounded handles and easy to open knife blades mean that this tool might just replace your favorite pocket knife before too long.

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Ease of Use
Not only does this tool offer implements on the outside for easier access, but it is also easily operated with a single hand. Add to that the wealth of very practical tools, and the relatively fluid motion when opening it, this tool is truly a breeze to use.

Accessories
There are fourteen different tools that inhabit this multi-tool from Leatherman. They are some of the most practical, including spring action needle nose pliers, spring action regular pliers, spring action wire cutters, a wire stripper, both a knife and serrated knife, a saw, ruler, can opener, bottle opener, a wood/metal file, a Phillips screwdriver, and both a small and medium screwdriver.

Size
When closed, this tool measures just under four inches in length and weighs about seven ounces. It’s fairly small for a Leatherman Tool, and can easily fit in just about any pocket, purse, or backpack.

Durability
Overall the construction of this tool is pretty sound, with no real indications of weakened materials or individual tools. If you’re thinking about buying your first multi-tool, the Leatherman Sidekick is a great all-around choice. While not as innovative or comprehensive as some tools available, it is a great place to start.

4. LEATHERMAN OHT

Where to buy
LEATHERMAN OHT
Amazon Link

If you’re looking for a workhouse of a multi-tool that is designed to help you do your job safely and effectively, this entry on our list may just be the ticket. Overall this tool is well planned out, and the most often used tools are easily accessible. In addition, the use of 420 high carbon steel makes for a stronger and more lightweight option compared to some other multi-tools available on the market.

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Ease of Use
When it comes to usability, this multi-tool is one of the best on this list, if not the market. It features a combination of true one-handed operation, tools accessible from the outside, secure locking mechanisms for all the tools involved, and handles with easy to grip imprints so your hands don’t slide around during delicate tasks.

Accessories
While this multi-tool doesn’t include everything besides the kitchen sink, it comes fairly close. It includes a spring-action needle nose pliers and regular pliers, both spring action hard wire and wire cutters, a knife, a serrated knife, a saw, a strap cutter, a #8-32 cleaning rod/brush adapter, can opener, bottle opener, oxygen tank wrench, a Phillips screwdriver, a large screwdriver, a medium screwdriver, and a small screwdriver.

Size
When closed, this multi-tool measures approximately 4.5 inches and weighs just under 10 ounces. While not the lightest or smallest of the choices presented here, it can still be kept in a number of different places, including a back pocket or a belt holder.

Durability
While the overall multi-tool is fairly strong and will certainly last for many years to come, quite a few of the individual tools may have to be replaced a time or two. For example, the pliers have been shown to be relatively weak, and the wire cutters, which are replaceable don’t withstand the test of rigorous work as well as we would hope. Filled with useful tools that are a breeze to operate, the Leatherman OHT Multi-Tool falls a little short when it comes to the strength and durability of the individual tools. However, if you need something that should survive regular use without a problem at a fairly reasonable price, this is not a bad option.

5. LEATHERMAN SKELETOOL CX

LEATHERMAN SKELETOOL CX
Amazon Link

If you’re looking for a light, and easy to handle multi-tool that gives you just what you need and nothing else, the Leatherman Skeletool CX Multi-tool is something that you should consider. This multi-tool is all about going back to the basics, and the overall commitment to quality is no exception. In this tool, Leatherman combined the innovative use of carbon fiber with light and strong steel to make sure that the tool was lightweight and only contained what was needed.

Read more

Ease of Use
With only seven tools, and the ability to access them freely from both the inside and outside, this multi-tool is one of the easiest to handle. It fits easily on the belt or in the purse as well. The one problem we found was that it is sometimes hard to open.

Accessories
Only seven tools are included in this entry into our list. Needle nose pliers, regular pliers, hard and regular wire cutters, a knife, a carbiner/bottle opener, and a large bit driver are all you get.

Size
Based on the composition of the handle and the essential tools, this multi-tool weighs about 5 ounces and measures about 4 inches in length when closed.

Durability
In general, the durability of the multi-tool is fine for general use, but the carbon fiber handle, which is perfect for most things doesn’t stand up very well to extreme temperatures. Housing only the true essentials and feature a carbon fiber handle, the Skeletool CX Multi-Tool is a great choice for those braving the urban jungle.

6. LEATHERMAN REBAR

Where to buy
LEATHERMAN REBAR
Amazon Link

Designed for those that want the essential tools at their fingertips, the Leatherman Rebar tool is a great choice based on the idea that form and function can work in harmony. Overall this is a fairly well-designed tool, although the absence of tools on the outside is a bit of a design flaw in our opinion. Overall though, the material used and the craftsmanship is fairly good.

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Ease of Use
This particular multi-tool offers one-handed operation, and accessible tools on the outside, which is quite handy in certain situations. In addition, the tools lock into place. However, there have been reports of some overall stiffness when opening the multi-tool, and in pulling out some of the included implements. Overall though, with time the stiffness does lessen.

Accessories
This tool features seventeen of the most often used tools. These include needle nose pliers, regular pliers, replaceable wire cutters, replaceable hard-wire cutters, electrical crimper, a wire stripper, a 420 high carbon stainless steel knife, a 420 high carbon serrated edge knife, a saw, an awl with thread loop, a can opener and bottle opener, a wood/metal file, a Phillips screwdriver, a ruler, and both a large and small screwdriver.

Size
This is one tool that when fully closed can fit into your pocket. Measuring approximately 1.5 x 4 x 1 inch in size, it is easily one of the most compact Leatherman tools available

Durability
This tool has a fairly straightforward design, and can easily survive a drop or two and normal everyday wear and tear. While there have been reports about individual tools breaking with strenuous use, overall this tools is tough enough to get the job done. While the durability in some of the tools leaves a little bit to be desired, and the lack of outside tools is a bit of a letdown, this tool provides a great deal of practicality and strength where you need it most.

7. LEATHERMAN TREAD BRACELET

LEATHERMAN TREAD BRACELET
Amazon Link

Love the idea of multi-tool, but hate the fact that you can rarely bring them onto a plane, and having a bulky weight in your pocket? The Leatherman Tread Bracelet may just be what you’re looking for. Combining a unique fashion sense with a TSA approved multi-tool, this is one bracelet you’ll love to wear. Overall the design of this bracelet is innovative a fairly straight forward at the same time While it is not as sturdy as some of the other tools from Leatherman on this list, it is still well made.

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Ease of Use
The innovative design of this particular multi-tool makes it not only relatively easy to use but also easy to customize. Simply slip a link off or back on again to make the bracelet into something truly your own. There are some tools, due to their nature, such as the ¼ inch socket drive that is a bit harder to use in some situations, but those examples are few and far between.

Accessories
There are a total of twenty-nine tools that you can mix and match in this Tread Bracelet from Leatherman. These include a #1 and #2 Phillips screwdriver, a 1/4” box wrench, a 3/16” screwdriver, a 6mm hex drive, a ¼ inch hex drive, an oxygen tank wrench, a 3/16 inch hex drive, a 8 mm box wrench, a 3 mm hex drive, a carbide glass breaker, a pick/sim card tool, cutting hook, a ¼ inch socket drive, a bottle opener, and a #2 square drive.

Size
Measuring 10.1 by 6.5 by 4.5 inches this bracelet might be a bit bulky for some tastes, but it should fit most wrists without too much trouble. Also, the weight is less than 0.5 ounces, making it one of the lightest tools on the market.

Durability
Each link in this bracelet is made from durable stainless steel material, although the connecting links do leave a bit to be desired in the strength department. Overall though, the sturdiness of the bracelet is well suited for normal everyday use. With its innovative design and easily customizable layout, this is one of the best tools from Leatherman that you’ll find anywhere. However, the bracelet might be a bit large for some wrists, and some of the links and tools can be harder to use.

8. LEATHERMAN SURGE

Where to buy
LEATHERMAN SURGE
Amazon Link

The Surge Multi-Tool is one of those devices from Leatherman that seems to have the answers to all the right questions when it comes to practicality and usefulness. While the Surge is certainly quite durable, the overall quality of the manufacturing does leave a bit to be desired. The springs felt a bit weaker than normal, and the folding mechanisms felt stiff even after lubrication and use.

Read more

Ease of Use
In general, the locking features, ability to access the tools from either the inside or outside, and the one-handed operation means that this is a tool that even the most inexperienced person can use. The one drawback we found is that the springs and tools were surprisingly stiff and hard to open, even after multiple uses.

Accessories
If you need it, chances are this multi-tool will have it. It features a total of 21 different tools including needle nose and regular pliers, hard and regular wire cutters, an electrical crimper, a wire stripper, a knife, a saw, spring action scissors, an awl with a thread loop, an eight-inch ruler, a can opener, a bottle opener, a file, a diamond coated file, a blade exchanger, a large bit driver, and both a large and small screwdriver.

Size
When closed, this multi-tool measures about 4.5 inches, and weighs about 12.5 ounces.

Durability
Overall, the Surge Multi-Tool is one of the toughest on this list. It is designed to survive and thrive in the worst environments. So normal everyday use, even in the outdoors shouldn’t be too much of a problem. This is one of the largest and heaviest tools from Leatherman on the market today. Filled to the brim with great tools, it’s a great choice, provided it’s overall stiffness and weakness in the springs is taken into account.

9. LEATHERMAN CHARGE TTI

Where to buy
LEATHERMAN CHARGE TTI
Amazon Link

Combining some of the most requested tools from its customers, Leatherman has created one of the most versatile and easy to use multi-tools on the market today. Need to fix something in a snap? Chances are you’ll be using the Leatherman Charge TTI. Overall this particular tool from Leatherman lives up to the 25-year warranty offered by the company with little trouble. The materials used in the making of this tool include 420 high carbon steel and a titanium comfort-sculpted handle to start. This is one tool that has a good chance of withstanding anything you throw at it.

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Ease of Use
Overall this tool is one of the easiest to operate and can be opened and operated with one hand, which is a welcomed change from previous Leatherman tools. The tools lock into place during use, adding a level of safety that is unseen in other multi-tools. And finally, the number of tools that are accessible from the outside edge makes it a very easy tool to use indeed.

Accessories
This tool from Leatherman includes many of the tools that you use every day. Things such as needle nose pliers, hard-wire cutters, wire cutter, crimper, a wire stripper, a knife, a serrated knife, a saw, spring action scissors, a cutting hook, ruler, can opener, bottle opener, both a wood/metal and diamond coated files, a large bit driver, a small bit driver, and a medium screwdriver all can easily play a part in your daily life.

Size
When closed, the tool is only four inches long, making it an easy fit for a back pocket or on a belt. The weight is just under 9 ounces, so it’s fairly lightweight as well.

Durability
Even with all the different tools and potential areas for breakage, this multi-tool is built to last with solid workmanship. If you’re looking for a Leatherman tool that has the essential tools in a lightweight and easy to carry package, the Charge TTI is the way to go.

10. LEATHERMAN FREESTYLE

Where to buy
LEATHERMAN FREESTYLE
Amazon Link

Love the idea of multi-tool, but not a huge fan of something bulky and hard to manage? Then the Leatherman Freestyle Multi-Tool may just what you need. This Leatherman tool features their standard 420 high carbon steel and is laid out with great efficiency, with the tools being accessible from both inside and outside the multi-tool.

Read more

Ease of Use
Overall this multi-tool is very easy to use, with only a little stiffness here and there during the first uses. The tools can be drawn out with a single hand, and quite a few of them are on the outside, making using them quite simple indeed.

Accessories
The Freestyle Multi-Tool is built for efficiency and includes only the tools that Leatherman has found to be the most used. These include needle nose pliers, regular pliers, hard-wire cutters, wire cutters, and a combination serrated edge and straight edge knife.

Size
This is one of the smallest and most compact Leatherman tools on this list. It measures 1.25 by 3.45 by 0.75 inches and weighs a remarkable 4.5 ounces.

Durability
Overall the durability of this particular tool is acceptable, but certainly, nothing to write home about. While normal use shouldn’t be a problem, we wouldn’t suggest dropping it off the side of a small cliff anytime soon. If you’re looking for an efficient and practical multi-tool that should serve your everyday needs quite well, this is a fantastic choice.

Sources

  1. Josh Burnell, The Top 10 Best Multitools Ever!, Article