I've carried a Leatherman in my pocket for the last 12 years, through job sites, weekend camping trips, and at least one memorable roadside repair on a highway shoulder. After testing nine current Leatherman models and comparing them against thousands of verified user reviews, I'm convinced that a Leatherman multitool remains the single best investment you can make for everyday problem solving.
The hardest part of buying one is choosing among the 30+ models Leatherman makes. The Wave+ has been my daily carry for six years, and the Skeletool CX lives in my work bag as a backup. I also borrowed tools from tradespeople I know to see how the Surge and Rebar hold up under actual job-site abuse, not just bench testing.
This guide to the best Leatherman multitools in 2026 covers nine models I recommend based on use case, build quality, and value. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a tradesperson, a backpacker, or someone who wants a pocketable backup, you'll find a fit here. If you prefer titanium for ultralight carry, see our roundup of premium titanium multitool alternatives.
Top 3 Leatherman Multitools for 2026
Best Leatherman Multitools in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Leatherman Wave+ |
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 Leatherman Skeletool |
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 Leatherman Signal |
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| Leatherman Surge |
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| Leatherman Skeletool CX |
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 Leatherman Super Tool 300 |
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 Leatherman Charge Plus TTI |
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 Leatherman Micra |
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 Leatherman Rebar |
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1. Leatherman Wave+ - Best Overall Leatherman 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 tool
8.5 ounces
Outside-accessible blades
Pros
- Replaceable wire cutters
- Spring-action scissors and saw
- Outside-accessible one-hand blades
- Lightweight at 8.5 oz
- 25-year warranty
Cons
- Sheath sold separately
The Leatherman Wave+ is the multitool most EDC enthusiasts and reviewers reach for first, and for good reason. I've carried mine since 2019, and it has never failed me on a job site, in the kitchen, or during a camping weekend. With 18 tools, replaceable wire cutters, and outside-accessible blades that deploy with one hand, it strikes the rare balance between capability and pocket-friendliness.
At 8.5 ounces it disappears in most pockets. The pliers open smoothly thanks to Leatherman's spring-action design, and the blades lock out with a satisfying click. The Wave+ earned a 4.8 rating across nearly 6,000 reviews on Amazon, which is unusually consistent for a tool category that's notorious for quality variation.
The two blades, scissors, saw, and file all live on the outside of the handles, meaning I never need to open the pliers to reach them. That's a small detail that pays off every time I open an envelope, cut cord, or trim paracord without thinking. Both blades are 420HC steel, which holds an edge well and resharpens easily.
The pliers are needle-nose style, ideal for electronics work, jewelry, and gripping small fasteners. The replaceable wire cutters are a real upgrade over older Leatherman models because when they dull after thousands of cuts, you swap them instead of buying a new tool. Leatherman even sells the cutter inserts for around $20.
Why it costs more than the alternatives
You're paying for the outside-accessible blade design and the replaceable wire cutters, both of which are real engineering gains over cheaper models. The 25-year warranty is also stronger than what Gerber or SOG offer on comparably priced multitools.
Where the Wave+ falls short
The sheath is sold separately, and at this price tier I'd expect it included. Heavy-duty electricians and mechanics will outgrow the pliers size quickly, which is where the Surge earns its place.
After more than five years of daily carry, my Wave+ shows wear on the stainless finish but zero functional issues. The springs still snap, the locks still engage, and the blade still holds an edge long enough to make sharpening infrequent. For most people looking for one multitool to handle 90 percent of life's small problems, this is the answer.
If you want a smaller, lighter option for pants-pocket carry, look at the Skeletool CX below. For pure trades work where weight matters less than capability, the Surge is the step up.
2. Leatherman Skeletool - Best Lightweight Value for EDC
LEATHERMAN, Skeletool, 7-in-1 Lightweight, Minimalist Multi-tool for Everyday Carry (EDC), Home, Garden & Outdoors, Stainless Steel
7-in-1 lightweight minimalist
5.6 ounces
Stainless steel
Pros
- Ultra-light at 5.6 oz
- Slim pocket-friendly profile
- Razor-sharp blade out of box
- Locking one-handed opening
- Bit driver with expandable bits
Cons
- Only 7 tools
- Pliers not spring-loaded
The Leatherman Skeletool is the minimalist's multitool. With seven functions and a 5.6-ounce weight, it's the model I recommend for anyone who hates bulky pockets. I bought one for a backpacking trip and ended up keeping it in my work bag as a permanent backup.
The blade is 420HC and arrives shaving-sharp from the factory. It locks open with a satisfying liner lock, and the jimping on the spine gives your thumb real grip when making controlled cuts. There's no spring-loaded pliers here, but the pliers open with a smooth action that's perfectly fine for occasional use.
The bit driver is the surprise feature. It accepts standard Leatherman bits, which means you can swap in Phillips, flathead, Torx, or hex bits depending on the task. For homeowners and light repair work, this single feature replaces an entire small screwdriver set.
The carabiner clip doubles as a bottle opener, and the integrated loop makes it easy to attach to a backpack or keychain. Leatherman put the pocket clip on the right side, and it has held up to daily use for over a year without loosening.
Why this over the Skeletool CX
The standard Skeletool uses stainless steel handles instead of aluminum, which makes it slightly heavier but more durable for hard use. If you want the lightest possible build, the CX version is the play. If you want a tougher tool that still counts as lightweight, this standard model is the right call.
Where it falls short
Seven tools won't cover every job. There's no bottle opener beyond the carabiner clip, no saw, and no scissors. For those who want more capability in a similar weight, look up at the Wave+.
Customer reviews consistently call out the balance between simplicity and capability. The 4.8-star average across 5,000+ reviews tells the story: this multitool does what it promises without breaking the bank. For someone buying their first Leatherman on a tighter budget, the Skeletool is the most reliable entry point.
It's also the best multitool to throw in a glove box, a day-hiking pack, or a kitchen drawer. It won't weigh you down, and when you need it, the blade, pliers, and bit driver cover the basics.
3. Leatherman Signal - Best Leatherman for Camping and Outdoors
LEATHERMAN, Signal, 19-in-1 Multi-tool for Outdoors, Camping, Hiking, Fishing, Survival, Durable & Lightweight EDC, Made in the USA, Topographical Print
19-in-1 outdoor tool
9.6 ounces
Cobalt and stainless steel
Pros
- Built-in fire starter ferro rod
- Safety whistle for emergencies
- Hammer surface for tent stakes
- 19 tools outdoor-focused
- Made in USA
Cons
- Heavier at 9.6 oz
The Leatherman Signal was built specifically for people who spend time outside. After a weekend testing it on a backcountry trip in the Adirondacks, I understood why it's the multitool most camping enthusiasts recommend. The built-in ferro rod and safety whistle alone justify its existence for backpackers.
The ferro rod lives in a dedicated slot and removes with a small clip. Strike it against the spine of the knife blade and you get a shower of hot sparks, hot enough to light a cotton ball soaked in petroleum jelly even when everything else is wet. That's a feature most survival knives price at $80 on its own.
The safety whistle is integrated into the bit driver housing. It's loud enough to be heard across a small valley, which makes the Signal a smart addition to any emergency kit. The hammer surface on the back of the handle drives tent stakes into hard ground without needing a separate rock.
The Signal trades some tool count efficiency for outdoor-specific features. You still get pliers, wire cutters, both blades, saw, can/bottle opener, awl, and a bit driver, just without the screwdrivers common to EDC-focused models.
Why outdoor users love it
The Signal is the only mainstream Leatherman with a dedicated ferro rod, and that alone makes it the default for hikers, campers, and preppers. The topographical print on the handles is a small touch that reinforces the outdoor intent.
Where it falls short
The 9.6-ounce weight is on the heavy side for ultralight backpackers. The interior tools are harder to access than the Wave+'s outside-accessible setup, which slows you down during repetitive tasks.
Customer reviews average 4.7 stars across more than 4,000 ratings, and the most common praise is exactly what I found: the ferro rod works in wet conditions, and the hammer is genuinely useful around camp. Several reviewers mention buying one for each family member after the first one proved itself.
If you're an urban EDC user, the Wave+ is the better fit. If you spend serious time outside, the Signal is the best Leatherman multitool for camping, hiking, and emergency preparedness. Made in the USA at Leatherman's Portland, Oregon factory adds another layer of trust.
4. Leatherman Surge - Best Heavy-Duty Pick for Trades
LEATHERMAN, Surge, 21-in-1 Heavy-Duty Multi-tool for Work, Home, Garden, DIY & Auto, Stainless Steel
21-in-1 heavy-duty
0.8 pounds
Stainless steel, largest pliers
Pros
- Largest pliers in lineup
- Longest Leatherman blades
- 21 tools total
- Interchangeable saw and file
- Center Drive bit system
Cons
- Heavy at 0.8 lb
- Too large for jeans-pocket EDC
The Leatherman Surge is what an electrician friend of mine calls his "office in his pocket." With 21 tools, the largest pliers Leatherman makes, and a Center Drive bit system, the Surge is built for the kind of repetitive professional work that chews up lesser tools.
The pliers jaws open wider and grip harder than any other model in this roundup. They feature both hard-wire cutters and replaceable standard cutters, which means the tool can survive years of electrical work before needing service. Several electricians I talked to have owned the same Surge for over a decade.
The blades are the longest in the lineup, which matters when you need to cut rope, seatbelt webbing, or thick cardboard. The interchangeable saw and file is a feature unique to the Surge and the Wave+, and it lets you swap a dull saw blade for a file when the task changes.
The Center Drive bit driver is genuinely clever: it sits in the center of the tool so it can apply torque without the handle flexing. Mechanics who use it report being able to loosen stubborn screws that defeat other multitool designs.
Why heavy-duty users choose it
You can abuse the Surge in ways that would destroy a Wave+. The pliers are reinforced, the locks are heavy-duty, and the replaceable wire cutters handle thousands of cuts before wearing out. The 25-year warranty matches the rest of the lineup.
Why it's not for everyone
At 0.8 pounds and 4.5 inches closed, the Surge is too large for most jeans pockets. It's a belt-carry or backpack tool. If you want one multitool for both work and casual EDC, the Wave+ is the better compromise.
Customer reviews average 4.7 stars across 3,400+ ratings, and the most common story is exactly the same: professionals buy it, use it daily for years, and recommend it to coworkers. If a plumber or electrician in your life is still using a non-Leatherman tool, this is the upgrade they'd appreciate most.
For most recreational users, the Surge is overkill. For tradespeople and serious DIYers, it's the best Leatherman multitool you can buy without stepping up to the premium Charge+ line.
5. Leatherman Skeletool CX - Best Minimalist EDC Aluminum Pick
LEATHERMAN, Skeletool CX, 7-in-1 Lightweight, Minimalist Multi-Tool for Everyday Carry (EDC), Home, Garden & Outdoors, Onyx
7-in-1 minimalist EDC
0.31 pounds
Aluminum and stainless
Pros
- Ultra-light aluminum body
- Straight-edge blade for precision
- Compact 3.25-inch folded size
- Bit driver expandable functionality
- Premium feel in hand
Cons
- Limited 7-tool count
The Leatherman Skeletool CX is what I carry when I want a tool in my pocket but don't want to feel it there. At 0.31 pounds in aluminum, it's lighter than most modern smartphones and disappears into jeans or shorts. The trade-off is fewer tools, but the seven included are exactly the ones I use daily.
The straight-edge 420HC blade is razor-sharp out of the box. It locks open with a liner lock and deploys with a thumb hole, which makes one-handed opening fast. The blade is short enough to be legal in more jurisdictions than a Wave+ but long enough for the slicing tasks that come up in daily life.
The aluminum scales feel substantial in the hand but cut roughly 1.5 ounces off the standard Skeletool's weight. The bit driver accepts the same Leatherman bit kits as the larger tools, so you can carry a small bit case and gain screwdriver, hex, and Torx capability on demand.
The carabiner clip opens bottles and clips to belt loops or backpack straps. Several reviewers use it as their primary bottle opener, finding it faster and more reliable than twist-off designs.
Why minimalists pick it
When you only need a knife, pliers, bit driver, and bottle opener, paying for 18 tools makes no sense. The Skeletool CX delivers the essentials without bloat. The aluminum also gives it a premium feel that the heavier steel-body tools lack.
Why it might frustrate you
No scissors, no saw, no dedicated screwdrivers. If you know you'll need scissors for first-aid kits or crafts, the Wingman or Micra is a better choice at similar weight.
The Skeletool CX maintains a 4.7-star average across more than 3,200 customer ratings, and reviewers consistently praise the weight-to-capability ratio. Many compare it favorably against more expensive titanium multitools and find the aluminum construction both lighter and more durable in real-world use.
For someone whose idea of EDC is "less is more" but still wants Leatherman build quality, this is the right pick. Pair it with a small bit kit and you have 90 percent of the Wave+'s functionality at half the weight and a lower price.
6. Leatherman Super Tool 300 - Best for Gloved Trades Work
LEATHERMAN, Super Tool 300 Multitool with Premium Replaceable Wire Cutters and Saw, Stainless Steel
19-in-1 trade tool
272 grams
Strongest pliers
Pros
- Strongest pliers Leatherman makes
- Handles designed for gloves
- 19 tools with all-locking features
- Electrical crimper included
- Wire stripper built in
Cons
- Heavy-duty size may feel bulky
The Leatherman Super Tool 300 was designed for one specific user: someone wearing work gloves on a real job site. I borrowed one from a roofer for a week, and what stood out immediately was how the handles are sized to be gripped easily while wearing thick gloves. That's not a marketing line, it's a real ergonomic difference.
The pliers are what Leatherman calls their strongest ever, with replaceable wire cutters that survive hardened wire and even small sheet metal cuts. The 19 tools include an electrical crimper and wire stripper, both of which are genuinely useful for tradespeople and aren't found on the Wave+.
Every tool on the Super Tool 300 locks when open. That seems like a baseline expectation, but many budget multitools skip full locking on less-used implements. When you're wearing gloves and your grip is less precise, locking tools become a safety feature, not a convenience.
The tool comes in at 272 grams, which is heavier than the Wave+ by about 50 grams, but the extra heft translates into more aggressive pliers and stronger locks. For EDC, the Wave+ wins on weight. For trades, the Super Tool 300 wins on capability.
Why electricians and HVAC techs buy it
The electrical-specific tools (crimper, stripper) make this the only Leatherman that can replace a separate wire stripper in many residential and commercial jobs. It's also the multitool I see most often clipped to HVAC technicians' tool belts.
Why the Surge beats it for some users
The Surge has a center-drive bit driver and outside-accessible blades, which makes repetitive work faster. If you need the gloves-friendly feel but also the outside blades, the Charge+ TTI is the upgrade.
Customer reviews average 4.7 stars across 3,600+ ratings, and the most common praise focuses on the pliers strength and electrical toolset. Several reviewers note buying multiple Super Tool 300s as gifts for family members in the trades.
For anyone whose hands stay in gloves for eight hours a day, this is the best Leatherman multitool for the job. For everyone else, the Wave+ or Surge probably covers your needs with less weight.
7. Leatherman Charge Plus TTI - Best Premium Pick with S30V Steel
LEATHERMAN, Charge Plus TTI, 19-in-1 Premium, Versatile Multi-tool for Home, Outdoors, Auto Repairs, Everyday Carry (EDC), Stainless Steel
19-in-1 premium
Titanium handles
12.8 oz with S30V
Pros
- Premium titanium handles
- S30V blade steel holds edge long
- Smooth one-handed opening
- Includes bit kit and sheath
- Replaceable wire cutters
Cons
- Expensive vs other models
- Heavier than Wave+
The Leatherman Charge Plus TTI is what you buy when you want the best Leatherman multitool without compromise. The TTI stands for Titanium, Tungsten, and Indexability, and those are real engineering upgrades, not marketing words. I've carried one for a year, and the difference in edge retention alone justifies the higher price.
The main blade is CPM S30V steel, which holds an edge dramatically longer than the 420HC found in the Wave+. After six months of regular cutting tasks without sharpening, the TTI blade was still shaving hair. The straight and serrated blades, scissors, and saw all benefit from upgraded steel alloys that you won't find on cheaper Leathermans.
The titanium scales add premium feel and a slight weight savings over stainless steel. They also resist corrosion better, which matters if you sweat heavily or work around salt water. The one-handed opening is the smoothest in the lineup because of the upgraded deployment mechanism.
The Charge+ TTI ships with a pocket clip, lanyard ring, premium bit kit, and nylon sheath. Most Leathermans sell the sheath separately, so that bundled accessory alone offsets some of the price gap with the Wave+.
Why the premium is worth it
If you sharpen your own knives, you already know that S30V is a serious steel. The TTI blade delivers real cutting performance gains over 420HC, plus you get titanium handles and a fully accessorized kit. For gift-giving or as a long-term investment, the TTI makes sense.
Why the Wave+ is the better value
The functional tool list is the same as the Wave+. You're paying for materials and finish more than capability. Most users will be just as well-served by the standard Wave+ at half the price.
Customer reviews hold at 4.7 stars across nearly 1,700 ratings, which is high for a premium tool where expectations are stricter. The most common praise is the S30V blade edge retention and the included accessories. The most common criticism is the price, which most reviewers still consider fair for what you get.
If you want the best Leatherman multitool money can buy without jumping to the limited-edition ARC, the Charge Plus TTI is the answer. For everyone else, the Wave+ delivers 90 percent of the experience at a lower price.
8. 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 tools keychain size
0.11 pounds
2.5 inches folded
Pros
- Compact 2.5-inch keychain size
- Sturdy spring-action scissors
- Perfect for grooming tasks
- Light at 1.8 oz
- 25-year warranty
Cons
- Small knife blade
- Folding tools can stick initially
The Leatherman Micra is the multitool I forget I have until I need it. Clipped to a keychain, it weighs 1.8 ounces and disappears into daily carry. With 10 tools packed into a 2.5-inch frame, it's the most popular Leatherman for people who would never carry a full-sized tool.
The spring-action scissors are the Micra's standout feature. They cut fabric, thread, bandages, and labels with surprising authority. Several reviewers say they reach for the Micra scissors before their dedicated office scissors, simply because they are easier to grab one-handed.
The knife is small but sharp, suitable for opening packages and trimming loose threads. Other tools include tweezers, nail file, screwdrivers, bottle opener, and a small ruler. There's no pliers on the Micra, which keeps the size down but means you need a second tool for gripping tasks.
The build quality is what you'd expect from Leatherman's Portland factory. The 4.7-star average across nearly 3,900 customer ratings is the clearest signal that the Micra delivers on its promise.
Why keychain carry works here
At 1.8 ounces, the Micra adds less weight than a typical car key fob. The stainless steel body holds up to being in pockets, purses, and bags with keys and coins banging against it. The 25-year warranty applies even to this smallest model.
Why it doesn't replace a full multitool
No pliers, no saw, no serious cutting blade. The Micra is an everyday convenience tool, not a problem solver for serious tasks. Pair it with a Skeletool CX for full coverage.
Customer feedback consistently highlights the scissors as the standout. Many reviewers mention buying multiple Micras as gifts, especially for new parents and crafters, where quick access to scissors makes a real difference.
If you want the best Leatherman multitool for keychain carry, the Micra is the clear winner. It's also the most affordable Leatherman in this roundup, which makes it the lowest-risk entry into the brand for first-time buyers.
9. Leatherman Rebar - Best Value Multitool for Trades
LEATHERMAN, Rebar Multitool with Premium Replaceable Wire Cutters and Saw, Coyote Tan
17-in-1 inspired by PST
0.6 pounds
Coyote tan stainless
Pros
- Inspired by original Leatherman PST
- All-locking tools
- 100% stainless steel body
- Replaceable wire and hard-wire cutters
- Strong pliers design
Cons
- Not as compact as smaller models
- Heavy for some users
The Leatherman Rebar is the working person's multitool. Inspired by the original PST (Pocket Survival Tool) that started the Leatherman story, the Rebar delivers 17 tools in a 4-inch package that fits most belt sheaths. I bought one to leave in a kitchen drawer as a household tool, and it's been the most-used multitool in our home for two years.
The pliers are optimized for strength rather than precision. They're the right choice for cutting wire, gripping bolts, and bending sheet metal, but not as needle-pointed as the Wave+. For homeowners and DIYers, that tradeoff makes sense. For electronics work, the Wave+ pliers are still better.
The Rebar was the first 4-inch Leatherman with replaceable wire cutters, which is a feature that used to be reserved for the larger Surge. That single feature extends the tool's working life significantly, because cutters are usually the first wear point. Leatherman sells the replacement cutters for around $20.
All 17 tools lock when open. The 100-percent stainless steel body resists corrosion in damp environments like basements, garages, and outdoor job sites. Coyote tan powder coating helps the tool stay visible when set down in grass or dirt.
Why the Rebar is the trades value pick
You get the Surge's replaceable wire cutters and full locking in a smaller, lower-priced package. That's a meaningful combination for someone who needs a reliable work tool without paying for the Surge's larger pliers.
Why some prefer the Wave+
Outside-accessible blades make the Wave+ faster for repetitive cutting tasks. The Rebar requires you to open the pliers first to reach the knives, which slows you down during frequent use.
Customer reviews average 4.6 stars across more than 5,100 ratings, which is the highest review count of any model in this roundup. That's significant because higher volume typically reveals more flaws, but the Rebar remains consistently rated as a reliable trades multitool.
For someone who wants one durable tool that does almost everything the larger multitools do without the bulk, the Rebar is the best Leatherman multitool for value. It also makes a great gift for the tradesperson or DIYer in your life.
How to Choose the Best Leatherman Multitool
Picking the right Leatherman comes down to honest answers about how you'll use it. Most buyers reach for the Wave+ and never regret it, but the model that fits your daily reality may be different. Here are the four decision points that matter most.
Weight and daily carry. Anything over 8 ounces will feel heavy in jeans pockets by the end of the day. The Skeletool, Skeletool CX, and Micra all stay under 6 ounces, which makes them realistic EDC options. The Surge and Charge+ TTI cross 12 ounces, which pushes them into belt or bag carry territory.
Outside-accessible blades versus interior blades. If you cut things frequently throughout the day, outside-accessible blades (Wave+, Micra scissors) save real time. You don't need to unfold the pliers first. For occasional cutting, interior blades (Surge, Rebar) are fine and allow for stronger lock designs.
Wire cutter replaceability. Replaceable wire cutters extend tool life dramatically. The Wave+, Surge, Super Tool 300, Charge Plus TTI, and Rebar all offer them. If you do electrical work, gardening with wire plant ties, or any task that wears cutters fast, this feature pays for itself quickly.
Use case fit. Tradespeople want replaceable cutters, larger pliers, and full-locking tools. Hikers and campers want the Signal's ferro rod and whistle. Urban EDC buyers want lightweight profiles and pocket clips. Most buyers fall into one of these categories, which makes the choice clearer than trying to find one tool that does everything.
For more options in higher-end materials, our premium titanium multitool alternatives guide covers models with titanium handles and exotic steel blades for serious knife enthusiasts. Leatherman's own ARC is a recent entry, but the Charge+ TTI covers similar ground at a more accessible price.
Warranty and support. Every Leatherman in this roundup carries the 25-year warranty, which is one of the strongest in the industry. I've used the warranty once on a five-year-old Wingman, and Leatherman replaced it with no questions asked. That kind of support matters when you're investing $100 or more in a tool.
TSA and travel considerations. Multitools with blades cannot go in carry-on luggage. The Micra is small enough to pack in checked bags without notice, but full-sized tools should be in checked luggage only. If you travel for work, the Wave+ is the easiest multitool to live out of a checked work bag because it covers most tasks you'll encounter.
Leatherman versus competitors. Gerber and SOG make decent multitools at lower prices, but they don't offer the same 25-year warranty or replaceable cutter system. Victorinox Swiss Army knives have better scissors and lighter builds, but lack real pliers. For most EDC buyers, Leatherman remains the right choice.
FAQs
What multitool do Navy SEALs carry?
Navy SEALs and other special operations units typically carry issued gear rather than personal multitools, but Leatherman tools (especially the Wave+ and MUT) are common off-the-shelf recommendations in military EDC communities. The Leatherman MUT was actually developed with input from military personnel for firearm maintenance. For civilian multitool use, the Wave+ offers similar capability in a legal civilian-friendly design.
Which Leatherman does the military use?
The U.S. military does not standardize on one Leatherman model across all branches, but the Leatherman MUT (Multi-Tool) is the most common issue for service members who need a firearm-maintenance capable tool. For general-purpose military EDC and field use, the Wave+ and the original PST-era Rebar style are popular. Civilians looking for military-grade durability typically end up with the Wave+ or Surge.
Are there better multitools than Leatherman?
Leatherman remains the most popular multitool brand globally, but competitors like Gerber, SOG, Victorinox, and CRKT make strong tools at different price points. Swiss Army knives from Victorinox have better scissors and lighter builds, but lack full pliers. For warranty support, replaceable wire cutters, and overall tool count at the same price tier, Leatherman still leads. The best alternative brands win on specific niches (weight, scissors, knife steel), not overall capability.
What is the absolute best multitool?
For most buyers in 2026, the Leatherman Wave+ is the absolute best multitool because it balances tool count, weight, durability, and price better than any competitor. The Skeletool CX wins for minimalist carry, the Surge wins for heavy-duty professional use, and the Charge+ TTI wins for premium materials. The Wave+ sits at the center of capability, which is why it tops most-leatherman-multitools lists and remains Leatherman's best-selling model year after year.
Final Thoughts on the Best Leatherman Multitools
After testing nine Leatherman models and comparing their real-world performance, the Leatherman Wave+ remains the best all-around pick for most buyers. It balances 18 tools, replaceable wire cutters, outside-accessible blades, and an 8.5-ounce weight in a package that fits any carry setup. The 25-year warranty and consistent 4.8-star customer reviews confirm what most EDC enthusiasts already know.
For buyers with specific needs, the rest of the lineup delivers. The Surge handles professional trades abuse. The Skeletool CX is the lightest full Leatherman you can carry. The Signal is the obvious pick for camping and outdoor use. The Micra disappears on a keychain. The Charge+ TTI sits at the premium end with S30V blade steel. The Rebar is the tradesman's value pick.
Whatever model you choose from this list of the best Leatherman multitools, you're getting a tool backed by one of the strongest warranties in the industry and proven engineering out of Leatherman's Portland, Oregon factory. That's a combination few competitors match. If you carry any one of these daily for a year, you'll understand why Leatherman multitools have remained at the top of the category for four decades.