various multi-tools on a wooden table various multi-tools on a wooden table

multi-tools 101: a complete beginner’s guide

multi-tools 101: a complete beginner’s guide

what is a multi-tool?

A multi-tool is like toolbox on the go. At Leatherman many of our multi-tools start with pliers and add on useful implements like a knife and screwdrivers. Think pocketknife but even more practical.

Multi-tools are designed to fit as much functionality as possible into one package. None of them are meant to replace your regular tools (for example, multi-tools pliers probably won’t replace a dedicated pair of pliers, but we like to think ours come close). The main purpose of a multi-tool is to be there when you need it.

The best multi-tool is the one you have with you. That’s why it’s important to choose the one that has the tools you will need and makes sense for how you want to carry it.

In this guide we cover:
The Four Sizes of Multi-tool
Multi-tool Designs
The Essential Tools
Uses for Other Implements
Materials
Carry Options
Popular Accessories
How to Care for a Multi-tool

Let’s dive right in.

SIZES OF MULTI-TOOL

  • heavy-duty

    Favored by tradepersons and military, these multi-tools are made for hard jobs and the hands that do them. The Surge® is our most popular heavy-duty tool. This powerhouse has our strongest pliers and largest pair of spring-action scissors.

  • full size

    Most Leatherman multi-tools—like the bestselling Wave® Plus—fall into this category. They’re a perfect mix of capable and versatile. Full size tools can be comfortably carried in a pocket or sheath, a backpack or glovebox.

  • pocket size

    These lighter weight tools are very easy to carry in a pocket without calling attention to themselves. Skeletool® CX and FREE® T4 are popular pocket-sized tools that feature just the essential features.

  • keychain

    Weighing just a few ounces, these mini multi-tools are always available for quick fixes. The mighty Micra® lands here.

multi-tool designs

  • pliers-based box design

    This iconic look was first seen in the original Pocket Survival Tool®. All implements are stowed in the handles and are only accessible when the tool is open. This makes the tool comfortable both in the pocket and the hand.

  • pliers-based with one hand accessible tools

    Unlike the box design, these multi-tools have at least one tool that can be opened with one hand. This allows quick access to the features you will likely use most often.

  • knife-based

    Some of our multi-tools are knife based multi-tools, or multipurpose knives. These tools do not have a pair of pliers but often include just about everything else you would need.

  • FREE® Technology platform

    Our premium pliers-based and knife-based tools are built upon FREE® Technology. These tools don’t need to be broken in and every tool can be opened with one hand. Yes, even the pliers.

the essentials


plier heads

The plier head actually includes four different tools.

Leatherman Pliers

1. Needlenose Pliers

The needlenose pliers are used for grasping small items, bending and manipulating wire. Because of their small shape they can pick up small items or get into small spaces more easily than fingers.            

2. Regular Pliers

Larger grip for tightening or loosening nuts and bolts.            

3. Wire Cutters 

Standard wire cutters are used to cut through wires and string.

4. Hard-wire cutters 

These are designed with extra space to facilitate cutting through solid metal wires.

knife blades

Even people who don’t carry a multi-tool probably carry a pocketknife. It is simply one of the most useful tools to have on hand. The knife on a multi-tool can either replace or complement your pocketknife. It all depends on your needs. 

As discussed above under Designs, some multi-tools have outside accessible tools. The knife blade is the most common tool users want to be able to deploy with one hand. Almost all Leatherman knife blades lock in place for safe and secure use.

Leatherman ARC with blade in a log

Straight Blade

A straight edge is ideal for clean cuts, slicing, and delicate work that requires fine control. Think packages, apples and cords. Straight blades are also easier to sharpen than serrated or combo blades.

deploying a serrated blade on a Leatherman Wave

Serrated blade

Small serrations make this knife better for cutting through tougher, fibrous materials. Keep in mind that the cuts won’t be as clean. Think seatbelts, cardboard and burlap. Serrated blades can be sharpened but it’s a bit more involved process.

cutting a cord with the combo blade on a Leatherman Signal

Combo Blade

These knives have both a plain and serrated section for maximum versatility. A combo blade is a smart choice if it is the only cutting tool on your person.

large bit driver

This tool works like a screwdriver with removable bits, allowing you to customize your tool for the job at hand. Most Leatherman multi-tools with a bit driver come with a few extra bits, but a full bit kit is available for even more capability. (Note: Some multi-tools have solid Philips and flathead screwdrivers instead of replaceable bit drivers.)

Replacing a bit on a leatherman curl

double-ended for double capability 

Each of Leatherman’s proprietary bits is double-ended.

Leatherman Wave with a bit kit

Extra bits 

All bits are available separately, so you can always add to or replace your kit. We even have specialized bits like the carbide glass breaker bit for emergency preparedness.

Additional implements


  • SAW

    Used frequently while camping but also handy for woodworking and crafts.

  • scissors

    All scissors on Leatherman® multi-tools are spring-action, so they are easy to use with one hand. The Micra is a keychain tool built around a pair of scissors.

  • file

    There are a wide variety of files available on Leatherman multi-tools including metal files for knocking down burrs or diamond-coated files for sharpening and honing.

  • small bit driver

    Useful for those wearing glasses or for working with electronic components.

  • pry bar / flat head screwdriver

    Perhaps an unsung hero among multi-tool implements, can pop open paint cans and comes in handy for unexpected tasks. Also doubles as a flat head screwdriver.

  • ruler

    Some of our tools have ruler marking handles for quick measurements on the fly.

  • bottle opener

    No multi-tool is complete without a way to enjoy your favorite beverage at the end of the day.

  • can opener

    An old fashioned can opener can be tricky to use. But if you ever forget the can opener on a camping trip, you know it will come in handy.

  • wire stripper

    Used for removing wire coatings. A handy tool for electricians or those doing repair projects around the house.

  • electrical crimper

    Used for attaching couplings to wires and electrical cables.

  • awl

    Used to create or widen holes in leather or other tough materials, as well as scoring and tracing.

Materials

In this section we will discuss the common materials used in Leatherman multi-tools, their advantages and why we use them.

blade steels

The knife blade is probably the most frequently used implement on a multi-tool, so we want it to be the best it can be. We use a variety of high quality American made steels at Leatherman. 

Different types of steel offer varying levels of performance. We can break this down into several different measurements. These include edge retention, toughness, corrosion resistance, as well as ease of sharpening.

These qualities determine the character of a particular steel and ultimately, the performance of a knife blade. Leatherman uses a variety of steel types in our knife blades including: 420HC steel, CPM MagnaCut, S30V, and 154CM.

leatherman wave with 420HC steel blade deployed

420hc

Found on many classic Leatherman® multi-tools, this stainless steel offers good edge retention and toughness. It is also relatively easy to sharpen. While it may not be considered a premium steel, is still a high-quality material and is ideally suited for an everyday working blade on a multi-tool.

Leatherman Skeletool CX with a 154cm blade showing

154cm

154CM steel is a high-performance stainless steel. It offers good edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. It is a premium steel that is often used in high-end knives and multi-tools like the Skeletool CX.

Leatherman Charge with a s30v blade showing

s30v

S30V steel is a high-performance stainless steel that offers excellent edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. It is a premium steel that is often used in high-end knives and multi-tools like the Charge+® TTI. It is more difficult to sharpen than some other steels, but it offers exceptional cutting performance.

Leatherman ARC with a MagnaCut blade showing

magnacut

MagnaCut hits the sweet spot of qualities needed in a superior knife blade. These include edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. We used MagnaCut on the ARC® to give our users the best possible performance on the best multi-tool we’ve ever made. Read more about MagnaCut here in our interview with its inventor, Dr. Larrin Thomas.

coatings

In this section we will discuss the common materials used in Leatherman multi-tools, their advantages and why we use them.

Various color Leatherman Skeletool

cerakote®

This ceramic-based coating adds color to tools like Signal® and Skeletool® CX. This finish also enhances abrasion and wear resistance.

Leatherman ARC with DLC Coating

DLC coating

Diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings are found on tools like Signal® and ARC® to improve wear and abrasion resistance.

carry options

The best tool is the one you have with you. That’s why we provide plenty of options to keep your Leatherman close at hand.

using a pocket clip on a skeletool

pocket clip

This is the most popular carry option among Leatherman® fans. The point of a pocket clip is to make your multi-tool easy to grab and find in your pocket, and to keep it from falling out. Pocket clips are available for nearly every Leatherman®, and some come included and others you need to add to your multi-tool.

Leatherman in a sheath

sheaths

Sheaths protect a multi-tool and make it easier to deploy quickly. Even if the sheath isn’t worn on a belt it can be a great place to store it and keep it safe. That’s why it’s our recommended method of storing your Leatherman® in your checked luggage while flying. Many multi-tools include a nylon sheath. Leather and MOLLE sheaths are available for an upgrade as well.

Leatherman tool pouch

pouches and bags

Some opt to carry their multi-tools in bags or pouches rather than on their person. This way it is easy to keep all of your gear together. This makes extra sense if your multi-tool is part of a survival or first aid kit. We offer both the Adapt® Kit and Tool Pouch® to help organize your gear.

accessories

leatherman wave with a bit kit

bit kit set

The Bit Kit Set® expands your multi-tools capabilities with 21 double-ended bits—42 tools in all. Use the Bit Kit® with all tools and knives with bit drivers and the Removable Bit Driver® accessory.  

Bit Driver Extender in a sheath

bit driver extender

Equipped with a magnetic bit holder for secure retention, the Bit Driver Extender® is compatible with any Leatherman multi-tool with a large bit driver. Works with our proprietary flat bits and standard 1/4" bits.

Leatherman blade sharpener in use with a Signal

blade Sharpener

The Leatherman Sharpener® includes three different kinds of blade care tools—carbide sharpener and ceramic hone, and a diamond-coated sharpening rod. The sharpening rod allows you to touch up serrated blades.

How to care for multi-tools

We have a complete maintenance guide for multi-tools on our site. Here are a few things to keep in mind.  

maintenance

  • Leatherman products are made of high-grade stainless steel, which is corrosion-resistant but not rust-proof.
  • Several cleaning methods are available, including using low viscosity oil, buffing with a polishing cloth, and cleaning with detergent and water.
  • PTFE/Teflon-based lubricant can be used for pivoting or wear areas.
  • Products should be cleaned, dried, and re-lubricated periodically to inhibit rust and corrosion, especially if exposed to saltwater or marine environments.

We offer everything you need to keep your multi-tool in great shape with the Leatherman Tool Maintenance Kit®.

sharpening

  • Leatherman knife blades may be straight-edged, serrated, or both, and sharpening methods vary.
  • Straight-edged blades can be sharpened using standard equipment, with a standard sharpening angle of 32° or with our Leatherman Sharpener®.
  • Serrated blades require a specific sharpening system to maintain the curvature of the serrations and should only be sharpened on the edged side.

warranty information

Our warranty is simple. You broke it, we'll fix it. Please visit our Warranty page and follow the instructions to send in your product (no sheaths, please).

If you live outside of North America, please follow the international warranty instructions also located on the Warranty page. There you will select your country and send your product to an authorized Leatherman distributor.

All Leatherman multi-tools are covered by our 25 year warranty. Leatherman Insiders enjoy an extended 40 year warranty. The program is free to join and comes with many other benefits and rewards (US residence only at this time).

read the full maintenance guide

now you have multi-tool know-how

The best tool is the one you have with you. That’s why we provide plenty of options to keep your Leatherman close at hand.

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