Top ten multi-tools of 2024
Top ten multi-tools of 2024
Which is the best Leatherman multi-tool? The one you have with you. As our biggest fans know, a multi-tool prepares you for the expected and unexpected—everything from life-or-death situations to everyday problem solving. But with all the multi-tools we’ve made in 40+ years, it can be hard to narrow down the best of the best. So, we’ve created a list of some of the bestsellers, fan favorites, and tools made for specific tasks to help you find the multi-tool that will be there right when you need it.
THE LIST
The Best Multi-tool We’ve Ever Made: ARC®
The International Best Seller: Wave®+
The Best Multi-Tool for Outdoor Adventure: Signal®
The Best for Hard Work: Super Tool® 300
The Best Minimalist EDC: Skeletool® CX
Best Multi-purpose Knife: FREE® K4
Best Pocket Problem Solver: FREE® T4
Best Trauma Shears: Raptor® Rescue
Best Multi-tool for DIY: Rebar®
Best Mini Multi-Tool: Micra®
#1: ARC
the best multi-tool we’ve ever made
highlights:
- MagnaCut® knife blade with thumb stud
- Built with FREE® Technology for a broken-in feel right out of the box
- Includes a sheath and extra bits for even more capability
- The culmination of 40 years of multi-tool design
good to know:
The ARC has a straight blade and saw, but not a serrated blade.
Who It’s For:
Perfect for anyone who wants the ultimate multi-tool experience, the ARC puts 20 tools into an easy-to-use design so you’ll be ready for anything.
Why We Picked It:
ARC takes everything we’ve learned about making multi-tools and puts it into a single package with premium materials, advanced FREE Technology and our most popular features. The Arc's primary blade is made of MagnaCut® steel which combines the best edge retention, blade strength, and corrosion resistance. The blade and handles use DLC coating for superior durability and corrosion resistance. Because it’s built with FREE Technology, each tool can be opened and closed with one hand, even the pliers. The ARC is as easy to carry as it is to use. It comes with a sheath and reversible pocket clip. Take a deep dive into what makes the ARC the best multi-tool in the ARC Tool Spotlight.
CLOSED LENGTH: 4.25 in. | 10.78 cm.
PRIMARY BLADE LENGTH: 2.76 in. | 7.02 cm.
WEIGHT: 8.6 oz. | 243.8 g.
CARRY OPTIONS: Includes nylon sheath and removable/reversible pocket clip
CUSTOMIZABLE: Yes
#2: WAVE
The International BESTSELLER
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18ToolsWave®+|
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18ToolsWave®+|
highlights:
- Outside accessible blades, saw, and files that can be opened with one hand
- All tools lock in place for safety
- Compatible with our Bit Kit Set and Extender for added utility
- Widely considered one of the best multi-tools ever made
good to know:
- Might be a bit too heavy for some people to carry in thier pocket everyday
- Only available in stainless steel and black
Who It’s For:
Anyone who wants a full-sized multitool that does it all. For some the Wave Plus will be the perfect sized EDC. For others it might be better in a backpack or bugout bag.
Why We Picked It:
We’ll keep it simple for this one. The Wave Plus is our all-time, international bestseller. It was designed by our CEO Ben Rivera and is one of the most beloved multi-tools in Leatherman history. If you are looking for one multi-tool to do it all, you might not need to look any further than the Wave Plus.
This bestseller traces its lineage to our original Leatherman® PST from the ‘90s. It’s been updated based on years of design by our top engineers and feedback from our customers. Whether you want it as your go-to tool for every day, or just want an all-around multi-tool for (almost) anything, the Wave Plus is a favorite for a reason. Home, work, or hobby, the Wave Plus has 18 tools to make you a multi-task master.
CLOSED LENGTH: 4 in. | 10 cm.
PRIMARY BLADE LENGTH: 2.9 in. | 7.37 cm.
WEIGHT: 8.5 oz. | 241 g.
CARRY OPTIONS: Includes nylon sheath, pocket clip sold separately
CUSTOMIZABLE: Yes
Also consider: The Surge® with similar tool set as the Wave Plus but built larger and stronger for tougher jobs.
#3: SIGNAL
BEST MULTI-TOOL FOR OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
highlights:
- Our only multi-tool with a firestarter, emergency whistle, sharpener, and hammering surface
- Available in 9 different color variations
- Includes removable pocket clip
- Our best-selling multi-tool of 2022
good to know:
- Missing some tools found on other full-sized Leatherman multi-tools, like a file and spring-action scissors.
Who It’s For:
Campers, hikers, and anyone who wants to be prepared for their next adventure.
Why We Picked It:
Whether you’re looking for a camping knife with some extra tools or an all-in-one adventure multi-tool, the Signal has you covered. It has all the essential functions found in our most popular pliers-based multi-tools, but the Signal has some unique features. Start a fire in any condition with the Signal’s ferro rod. Use the hammering surface to secure tent stakes. And in an emergency, you can use the whistle to call for help.
Signal is available in nine different color ways, so it’s easy to find one to match your style. Keep it classic with the Black and Silver or Coyote Tan. Or pick a bright color like Red or Aqua that will be easy to find if dropped on the trail. It’s good to have options.
No matter what turn your adventure takes, you’ll want to make sure your camping equipment includes the Signal.
CLOSED LENGTH: 4.5 in. | 11.43 cm.
PRIMARY BLADE LENGTH: 2.73 in. | 6.93 cm.
WEIGHT: 7.5 oz. | 212.6 g.
CARRY OPTIONS: Ships with removable pocket clip and nylon sheath
CUSTOMIZABLE: Yes
#4: SUPER TOOL 300
best multi-tool for hard work
highlights:
- One of our two largest tools
- Iconic Leatherman box design for a smooth profile when closed
- Easy to access tools even while wearing gloves
- Built for on-the-job, everyday use
good to know:
- No outside accessible blades
Who It’s For:
For those working in skilled trades or using a multi-tool for daily, heavy-duty work.
Why We Picked It:
Old-school Leatherman design right here. The Super Tool 300 is one of our most popular and powerful full-size multi-tools. Its 19 tough, professional-grade tools are designed with hard-working people in mind. The handles are comfortable enough to use all day and each tool is easy to access, even while wearing work gloves.
The large pliers are extra strong and easier to maneuver into tight spaces. Stranded, hard and regular wire cutters come standard, and they’re removable so you can repair or re-sharpen them on the spot.
CLOSED LENGTH: 4.5 in. | 11.5 cm.
PRIMARY BLADE LENGTH: 3.2 in. | 8.13 cm.
WEIGHT: 9.6 oz. | 272.15 g.
CARRY OPTIONS: Includes nylon sheath
CUSTOMIZABLE: Yes
Also consider: The Super Tool 300M and Super Tool 300 EOD are both designed especially for military professionals.
#5: SKELETOOL CX
BEST FOR MINIMAL EDC
highlights:
- Sleek, minimalist utility
- 154CM stainless steel straight blade
- Includes only essential tools like pliers and bit driver
- Removable low profile pocket clip
good to know:
- The minimalist design of the Skeletool CX means some implements found on larger tools are missing, like files, saws, and scissors
Who It’s For:
Anyone looking for a lightweight multi-tool with only the essential features they’ll use every day.
Why We Picked It:
Skeletool CX packs only the most essential tools into a sleek, smart package. This upgraded version of the Skeletool features a 2.6 in. straight blade made of premium 154CM steel. This steel provides a great balance of corrosion resistance and toughness. This makes the Skeletool CX a great pick for an everyday carry knife that you can use anywhere, at the office or on the camp trail. But of course, it’s more than just a knife. Believe us, the pliers, bit driver, and wire cutters will come in handy more often than you expect. To put it simply, the Skeletool CX has everything you need, and nothing you don’t.
CLOSED LENGTH: 4 in. | 10 cm.
PRIMARY BLADE LENGTH: 2.6 in. | 6.60 cm.
WEIGHT: 5 oz. | 142 g.
CARRY OPTIONS: Includes removable pocket clip
CUSTOMIZABLE: No
ENGRAVABLE: Yes
Also consider: Check out the standard Skeletool® with 420HC combo blade (available in a range of colors) and the Skeletool® RX, designed for first responders.
#6: FREE K4
best multi-purpose knife
highlights:
- A full-sized folding knife with extra tools
- Same tools as K2 with the addition of scissors
- Includes deep carry pocket clip
good to know:
- It is one of the few multi-tools on this list without pliers.
Who It’s For:
Anyone who needs a quality folding knife with extra utility.
Why We Picked It:
With a hefty 3.3 inch straight blade made from high-quality 420HC stainless steel and seven additional tools, the FREE K4 is multi-purpose redefined. Each implement is housed on the outside of an ergonomically refined aluminum body for easy access, so you’re never left fumbling in a pinch. Like all Leatherman tools built with FREE technology, each implement on this knife has an extremely smooth, fluid deployment with a distinct click, so you know the tool is open, locked, and ready to use for the person who wants a folding knife or camping knife with multi-purpose functionality. This utility knife is ready for everything you can throw at it.
CLOSED LENGTH: 4.5 in. | 11.5 cm
PRIMARY BLADE LENGTH: 3.3 in. | 8.4 cm.
WEIGHT: 5.5 oz. | 155.9 g.
CARRY OPTIONS: Includes removable pocket clip
CUSTOMIZABLE: No
Also consider: The FREE K4X, if you prefer a combo blade.
#7: FREE T4
BEST POCKET PROBLEM SOLVER
highlights:
- A compact and lightweight pocketknife
- FREE technology for one-handed opening of all tools
- Available in five color variations
good to know:
- Like the FREE K4, this multi-tool lacks a pair of pliers
Who It’s For:
For those looking to step up from a basic pocketknife but don’t need a full-sized pliers-based multi-tool.
Why We Picked It:
Designed with everyday carry in mind, the FREE T4 features an approachable 2.2 inch straight knife blade along with other helpful tools. Every tool is one-hand operable (except for the removable tweezers) thanks to FREE Technology. The FREE T4 features a signature design with smooth contours that’s comfortable to carry in the pocket and hold in the hand. It’s available in five color ways and all tools lock into place with a confident, reassuring click.
CLOSED LENGTH: 3.6 IN. | 9.3 cm.
PRIMARY BLADE LENGTH: 2.2 in. | 5.6 cm.
WEIGHT: 4.3 oz. | 121.9 g.
CARRY OPTIONS: Includes removable pocket clip
CUSTOMIZABLE: No
Also consider: The FREE T2 for a lighter EDC. It contains 8 implements and weighs in at a mere 3.3 ounces.
#8: RAPTOR RESCUE
BEST TRAUMA SHEARS
highlights:
- Strong, durable shears ready for the field
- Carbide Glass Breaker
- Strap Cutter
good to know:
- Raptor Rescue lacks the versatility of a pliers-based multi-tool.
Who It’s For:
The Rescue was designed with first responders in mind but these shears are a great addition to anyone’s preparedness kit.
Why We Picked It:
Our original trauma shears, the Raptor Rescue was created after carefully consulting with emergency professionals on what they need most in a critical situation. It’s especially well-suited for professionals who do extractions (like firefighters and military medics) who need a full-size pair of shears with additional features like a seat belt cutter. Anyone can use it, of course, and many people do (it’s one of our most popular multi-tools).
CLOSED LENGTH: 5 in. | 12.7 cm.
OPEN LENGTH: 8.0 in. | 20.3 cm.
SHEAR LENGTH: 1.9 in. | 4.8 cm.
WEIGHT: 5.8 oz. | 164 g.
CARRY OPTIONS: includes utility holster
CUSTOMIZABLE: Yes
Also consider: The Raptor Response is lighter, has comfortable handles, and is more practical for everyday uses like emergency preparedness or gardening.
#9: REBAR
best diy multi-tool
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17ToolsRebar®|
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17ToolsRebar®|
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17ToolsRebar®|
highlights:
- Replaceable wire cutters made from premium steel
- Classic Leatherman box design
- Lightweight and easy to pocket carry
good to know:
- No outside accessible tools
Who It’s For:
Anyone looking for compact capability for projects at home or at work.
Why We Picked It:
Rebar is a 5-star fan favorite for a reason. Designed after the original Leatherman PST®, the Rebar is a compact, lightweight version of our heavy-duty multi-tools. It’s also equipped with a robust set of all-locking tools and comfortable handles. This is a great choice for an on-the-job multi-tool that’s lightweight enough to carry every day.
CLOSED LENGTH: 4 in. | 10 cm.
PRIMARY BLADE LENGTH: 2.9 in. | 7.36 cm.
WEIGHT: 6.7 oz. | 189.94 g.
CARRY OPTIONS: Includes nylon sheath
CUSTOMIZABLE: Yes
Also consider: Check out the Curl® if one-handed accessibility is a must-have.
#10: MICRA
BEST MINI MULTI-TOOL
highlights:
- Less than 2 oz.
- Spring-action scissors
- Packs a knife, screwdrivers, file, and more in a compact design
- Available in multiple colors (including new Black Cherry and Arctic Blue) and is customizable
good to know:
- Like some other picks on our list, the Micra does not have a pair of pliers.
Who It’s For:
Anyone can find a use for a Micra! That might be why its one of our most popular gifts.
Why We Picked It:
If portability is your thing, the compact, lightweight Micra gives you 10 tools right on your keychain. A nice addition to a bigger multi-tool or all by itself, the Micra features strong spring-action scissors and a classic design. So many colors, you may need several (fair warning). Spotted everywhere from a tackle box to a sewing kit, the Micra packs ten useful features into a small, lightweight multi-tool.
CLOSED LENGTH: 2.5 in. | 6.5 cm.
BLADE LENGTH: 1.6 in | 4.06 cm.
WEIGHT: 1.8 oz. | 51 g.
CARRY OPTIONS: Includes keyring attachment
CUSTOMIZABLE: Yes
Also consider: The FREE T2 for a lighter EDC. It contains 8 implements and weighs in at a mere 3.3 ounces.