The 9 Best Leatherman Multitools (From Someone Who Has a Love-Hate Relationship With Them)

Why Trust This List

I need to get something out of the way first: I do not really like multitools.

That probably sounds strange coming from someone who owns a lot of them, but it is the truth. I have reviewed multitools for years and I keep coming back to the same conclusion. Most multitools try to do too much, and as a result, they usually do most of it just okay. For real work, I almost always prefer a dedicated tool.

And yet, I keep buying them.

Part of that is because I review gear, and part of it is because I am convinced I must be missing something. Multitools occupy a strange middle ground for me. I do not love them, but I also do not want to be without them. To me, they shine as emergency tools. They are perfect for glove boxes, backpacks, tool drawers, and the random places where you suddenly need something and have nothing else nearby.

I own every multitool on this list. Some I bought with my own money. Some were sent for review and never left my rotation. All have been carried, used, and judged through years of real-world testing.

That said, there are exceptions. A few multitools genuinely earn their keep, either through smart design, reliability, or by doing one specific thing extremely well. This list reflects that reality.

These are the Leatherman multitools that actually matter, tested, handled, carried, and judged through a very real love-hate relationship.

TL;DR: Leatherman Multitool Comparison

Quick picks based on real-world use, carry style, and what each tool actually does best.

Wave+ — Best overall
Wave Alpha — Premium flagship with MagnaCut blade and upgraded materials
Surge — Heavy-duty work
Rebar — Trades and electrical
Signal — Outdoor and emergency
Wingman — Best value
Sidekick — First multitool and glove-box duty
Skeletool CX — Lightweight carry
Micra — Keychain and daily tasks

Leatherman Wave+: Best Overall Multitool

If you asked ten people to name a multitool, odds are most of them would describe the Leatherman Wave+, even if they didn’t know its name.

The Wave+ has become the default for a reason. It hits the best balance Leatherman has ever achieved between size, weight, durability, and tool selection. With 18 tools packed into an 8.5-ounce frame, it covers almost everything a multitool reasonably should without tipping into gimmicks or excess bulk.

The replaceable wire cutters are a standout feature and one of the main reasons the Wave+ still feels modern. You’re not throwing away a tool when the cutters wear out. The blades are accessible from the outside, lock securely, and feel like real cutting tools instead of afterthoughts. The pliers are strong enough for real work, and the overall layout is intuitive even if you don’t use multitools often.

This is not the most exciting Leatherman. It’s not the lightest or the toughest. But it’s the most complete, and that’s why it continues to dominate.

If you only ever buy one multitool and don’t want to think about it again, this is the safest answer.

Best For:
People who want one reliable multitool that can handle home repairs, outdoor tasks, and emergency use without specialization.

Pros:
Excellent balance of size, weight, and functionality
Replaceable wire cutters extend tool lifespan
Outside-accessible, locking blades feel like real tools

Cons:
Heavier than minimalist EDC-focused multitools
Costs more than entry-level options

Leatherman Surge: Best Heavy-Duty Multitool

The Leatherman Surge is what happens when Leatherman stops worrying about pocket comfort and focuses entirely on capability.

This thing is a brick, and that’s not a criticism.

With 21 tools, massive pliers, long blades, and interchangeable saw and file components, the Surge feels closer to a portable toolbox than a traditional multitool. It’s built for electricians, mechanics, contractors, and anyone who regularly breaks lighter-duty tools.

The pliers are the largest Leatherman makes. The scissors are excellent. The interchangeable blade system lets you swap tools depending on the job, which adds real flexibility instead of marketing fluff. Everything about the Surge feels overbuilt in a reassuring way.

At nearly 13 ounces, this is not something you casually drop in a pocket. It lives in a bag, on a belt, or in a work kit. But if you’ve ever snapped a cheaper multitool under load, the Surge makes immediate sense.

You feel every ounce of the Surge, but that’s the point.

Best For:
Tradespeople and users who need a genuinely heavy-duty multitool for real work.

Pros:
Largest pliers and longest blades in Leatherman’s lineup
Interchangeable saw and file system adds versatility
Built to survive job-site abuse

Cons:
Too heavy for casual or pocket carry
Bulky compared to most multitools

Leatherman Rebar: Best for Trades and Electrical Work

The Leatherman Rebar is quietly one of the most practical multitools Leatherman makes.

It doesn’t chase trends, colors, or clever design flourishes. Instead, it focuses on delivering a tight, functional toolset that makes sense for people who actually work with their hands. The pliers are strong, the wire cutters are replaceable, and the inclusion of a crimper and wire stripper makes this especially appealing for electrical and technical work.

Everything locks, which inspires confidence when you’re applying force. The stainless steel construction feels solid without being overbuilt, and at 6.7 ounces, the Rebar is lighter than it looks.

It’s not flashy, and it’s not trying to be fun. It’s trying to work. That’s exactly why it earns a spot on this list.

Best For:
Electricians, technicians, and serious DIY users who want a no-nonsense multitool.

Pros:
All-locking tools improve safety and confidence
Excellent wire-focused tool selection
Compact and relatively lightweight

Cons:
Less ergonomic for long sessions than larger tools
Not ideal for pocket carry

Leatherman Signal: Best Outdoor and Emergency Multitool

The Leatherman Signal is one of the few multitools I genuinely enjoy.

Instead of trying to be everything to everyone, the Signal commits fully to its outdoor and emergency role. The built-in ferro rod, hammer surface, safety whistle, and pocket clip give it a clear identity that most multitools lack.

I bought the green topo version for a review and loved it. Unfortunately, it ended up becoming an emergency birthday gift for my son’s friend after I’d already opened it. When I went to replace it, only the light blue version was available at the time. Still cool, just not as cool.

The Signal isn’t the most versatile multitool on this list, but that’s not the point. It’s designed to live in a pack, vehicle, or emergency kit and be genuinely useful when things go sideways.

Best For:
Campers, hikers, and anyone building emergency or preparedness kits.

Pros:
Built-in ferro rod and hammer surface add real utility
Pocket clip makes it easier to carry than most multitools
Distinct outdoor focus with useful design choices

Cons:
Less general-purpose than the Wave+
Not ideal for fine or technical work

Leatherman Wingman: Best Budget Leatherman

The Wingman proves you don’t need to spend a lot to get a solid Leatherman.

It offers 14 tools, spring-action pliers, and one-hand-accessible blades in a compact, approachable design. It doesn’t feel cheap, and it doesn’t feel stripped down in the ways that matter.

This is a great first multitool, a solid backup, or something to keep in a glove box or drawer without worry. It carries the same 25-year warranty as Leatherman’s premium tools, which says a lot about the company’s confidence in it.

Best For:
First-time buyers and budget-conscious users.

Pros:
Strong value for the price
Spring-action pliers improve usability
Outside-accessible blade

Cons:
Steel requires occasional maintenance
Lacks refinement of higher-end models

Leatherman Skeletool CX: Best Lightweight Multitool

The Skeletool CX exists for people who don’t want to carry a multitool but still want one nearby.

At just 5 ounces, it’s light enough to forget about, yet it covers the basics well: pliers, blade, bit driver, wire cutters, and a bottle opener. The minimalist design keeps it honest and avoids unnecessary tools that add weight without adding value.

It’s not a replacement for a full multitool, and it doesn’t pretend to be. That restraint is exactly why it works.

Best For:
Minimalists and lightweight everyday carry setups.

Pros:
Very lightweight and easy to carry
Clean, modern design
Covers essential tasks well

Cons:
Limited tool selection
Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks

Leatherman Micra: The One I Actually Carry

If I’m being honest, the Leatherman Micra is the multitool I carry the most.

It lives on a keychain, not in a sheath or pocket, and it never feels like a burden. The scissors are excellent, easily among the best on any multitool and second only to Victorinox in my experience.

The rest of the tools are secondary, but they’re useful when needed. Tape, packaging, loose threads, tags, and small daily annoyances are where the Micra quietly shines.

The Micra isn’t impressive. It’s just useful. And that’s why it wins.

Best For:
Keychain carry and everyday nuisance tasks.

Pros:
Outstanding scissors
Tiny and unobtrusive
Always with you

Cons:
Limited capability
Not suitable for emergencies or hard use

How to Choose Your First Leatherman (Or Replace Your Current One)

Before diving into specific models, here’s how to think about what you actually need:

Ask yourself one question: Where will this actually live?

• Glove box or truck: Get something substantial like the Wave+ or Surge. You’re not carrying it, so weight doesn’t matter.
• Daily pocket carry: Go minimal (Skeletool CX) or skip it entirely and carry a Micra on your keychain.
• Backpack or camping kit: The Signal makes sense here. The emergency features actually matter in the woods.
• Tool drawer at work: Rebar or Wave+ depending on whether you do electrical work.

Second question: What will you actually use it for?

Most people think they need 21 tools. Most people use 4-5 tools regularly: pliers, knife blade, screwdrivers, and scissors.

If you’re honest about your actual needs, you probably want fewer tools, not more.

Price consideration:

Leatherman multitools range from $45 for the Wingman to $150+ for the Surge. The warranty is the same regardless: 25 years, no questions asked. That changes the value equation significantly.

What I Actually Carry

Most days, it’s the Micra.

For emergencies, vehicle kits, or outdoor trips, I rotate between the Wave+, Signal, and Rebar depending on context. I don’t daily carry large multitools, but I always have one nearby.

That distinction matters.

How I Test Multitools (Tech Writer EDC Disclosure)

I don’t test multitools in a lab. I test them by living with them.

I buy or borrow tools, carry them, use them, and pay attention to which ones actually get reached for. If a multitool never leaves a drawer, that tells me something.

I evaluate comfort, carry friction, real-world usefulness, and emergency readiness. I pay attention to which tools solve problems and which are just marketing bullet points.

I’m not sponsored by Leatherman, and I don’t believe multitools replace proper tools. If one earns a place here, it’s because it proves itself useful in real life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Leatherman is best for everyday carry?

For true everyday pocket carry, the Skeletool CX is the most comfortable at 5 oz. But honestly, most people will find even that too heavy for daily carry. If you want a multitool with you every day, put a Micra on your keychain – it’s 1.8 oz and you’ll actually use it.

For “nearby carry” (truck, bag, desk drawer), the Wave+ is the default choice.

What’s the difference between Leatherman Wave and Wave+?

The Wave+ is the updated version with replaceable wire cutters and an improved clip system. The original Wave is discontinued. If someone offers you a “Wave” at a discount, make sure it’s the Wave+ and not old stock.

Are Leatherman multitools worth the money?

Depends on your expectations. If you want a replacement for dedicated tools, no. If you want a capable emergency tool backed by a 25-year warranty, absolutely. The warranty alone changes the value equation – Leatherman will replace or repair any tool, no questions asked, for 25 years.

I’ve had Leatherman tools for over a decade. They hold up.

Which Leatherman is best for camping and hiking?

Leatherman Signal is purpose-built for outdoors with ferro rod, whistle, and sharpener. It’s the obvious choice for camping.

That said, I often bring the Wave+ instead because I value scissors in camp (first aid, gear repair, food prep). The Signal gives up scissors for the ferro rod. Pick based on your priorities.

Do I need the Surge or is the Wave+ enough?

The Wave+ is enough for 95% of people. The Surge is for tradespeople, mechanics, or anyone who regularly needs maximum leverage and doesn’t care about weight. If you’re unsure, get the Wave+.

What Leatherman do electricians use?

Leatherman Rebar or Surge. Both have wire strippers and crimpers. The Rebar is lighter and cheaper. The Surge has more leverage for heavier-gauge wire. I’ve seen both on job sites.

Can you fly with a Leatherman?

Not in carry-on luggage. TSA will confiscate any multitool with a blade. You can pack it in checked baggage. For travel, consider the Leatherman Style PS (blade-free version) or just accept you won’t have a multitool during the trip.

How long do Leatherman multitools last?

With normal use, decades. I have Wave+ tools from the early 2000s that still function perfectly. The 25-year warranty means if anything breaks, Leatherman fixes or replaces it. The warranty is the real deal – they honor it.

Which Leatherman has the best scissors?

Leatherman Micra has the best scissors of any Leatherman multitool. They’re sharp, precise, and rival dedicated small scissors. The Wave+ has good scissors for a full-size multitool, but they’re not in the same league as the Micra.

What is the most popular Leatherman multitool?

Wave+ by a landslide. It’s been the top seller for years. There’s a reason – it hits the sweet spot of capability, size, and price.

Are cheap multitools worth it, or should I just buy Leatherman?

I’ve tested cheap multitools. Some function okay initially, but they fall apart. Loose joints, rusty blades, failed locks. Leatherman costs more upfront but lasts exponentially longer. The warranty makes it a no-brainer. Buy once, use for decades.

Can I replace Leatherman blades?

Yes, for most models. Wire cutters and hard-wire cutters are replaceable on Wave+, Surge, and Rebar. Some models like the Surge have interchangeable saw/file blades. Knife blades are not user-replaceable, but Leatherman will service them under warranty.

Final Thoughts

Multitools are strange tools. They promise versatility, but they rarely replace dedicated gear — and they shouldn’t be expected to. After years of carrying, testing, and actually using them, I’ve learned that most people don’t need more tools. They need the right tools, in the right places, at the right time.

For most people, that means being honest about how a multitool will be used. If you want one tool to handle 90 percent of everyday problems, the Wave+ still sets the standard because it balances capability, size, and durability better than anything else Leatherman makes.

If your work is harder and your expectations higher, the Surge delivers real strength at the cost of weight. If preparedness and self-reliance matter, the Signal earns its place with purpose-built outdoor features.

And if you’re skeptical of multitools altogether, like I am, the Micra might quietly become the one you reach for most — because it’s the one that’s always with you.

Love them or hate them, multitools earn their place not by doing everything well, but by being there when nothing else is. The best multitool isn’t the one with the most tools — it’s the one you actually carry.

Ready to buy? Start with the Leatherman Wave+ for all-around capability, or grab a Micra for your keychain and see if you even need anything more.