What’s the best way to carry a Leatherman multi-tool?

It’s your call based on how you use it, which tool you’re using, and your own personal preferences. Here are all the ways to carry to help you pick your new favorite(s). All of our carry options can be found on our Sheaths and Carry Systems page.

Rather watch than read? Our Sr. Product Manager, Jeremy Rodriguez, has you covered in this short video.

FOUR MAIN WAYS TO CARRY A LEATHERMAN

POCKET CLIP 

Pros:

Most popular with Leatherman fans. Reach for your tool at a moment’s notice without dealing with a sheath or zippered pouch. Flexibility is yours; clip it to your front or back pocket.

Many of our multi-tools come with a pocket clip already. For others, you’ll need to buy it separately, but don’t worry because it’s easy to install.

Cons:

Some tools like the Surge® are little too heavy and bulky for pocket carry. Also, if you are new to carrying a multi-tool, it might take a while to get in the habit of slipping it into your pocket before you head out the door. 

SHEATH

Pros:

Perfect for larger or heavier multi-tools, sheaths shift the weight out of your pocket and onto your belt. Not only do sheaths protect the tool from scratches, but also keeps it safe and at your side, so you’re less likely to set it down and forget about it. The best part? You have extra storage for your Leatherman accessories like a bit kit or another everyday carry (EDC) essential like a flashlight.

Sheaths are also a great way to keep your tool safe in your checked luggage during flights.

Leatherman offers a wide variety of sheaths from simple nylon to leather to sheaths compatible with the MOLLE system.

Cons:

Sheaths can be cumbersome to wear, especially if you sit down or bend over a lot. They also make your tool more visible which could be undesirable in some situations. Needing to mess with a button or zipper also makes it less convenient to access your tool.

BAG 

Pros:

If you don’t need quick, easy access to your Leatherman, the Tool Pouch or Adapt Kit are great. They provide extra pockets and storage for all your other gear.

Cons:

It may be harder to find or grab your multi-tool, especially if you carry a large or cluttered bag or pack. If you switch bags or leave the house, you may forget to take it with you.

UTILITY

Pros:

The most simple and straightforward way is to keep it in a special place where you can always find it. This is particularly useful if you use a multi-tool for specific projects. For example, you could keep a Wave® next to your workbench or a Micra® in your tacklebox.

Cons:

Best if you have several multi-tools that you use for specific things or activities.

YOU DO YOU

Of course, there’s no right way to carry a Leatherman multi-tool. Every option works or doesn’t, depending on a lot of different factors. Try experimenting with a few until you find the one (or combination of methods) that works best for you. The most important thing, as always, is to have your multi-tool handy when you need it, so you can tackle any challenge big or small that crosses your path.

BONUS CARRY OPTION: LANYARD

Pros:

Many multi-tools have lanyard holes (or you can buy them with a pocket clip, and add them to a few FREE® tools, the ARC®, and Bond®), so you can attach your tool to a lanyard to make it easier to pull out of your pocket. This is especially helpful if you need to keep your hands free (for activities like fishing), if you don’t have pockets or a pack, or if you don’t want it to fall off and get lost. If you’re carrying other things already on a lanyard, like a work badge, then this option makes it super convenient. *Surprise fact: Many people don’t realize that Wave has a secret lanyard ring. Did you? Find out about it in our Wave Fun Facts post.

Cons:

Some tools are heavy or bulky and would be uncomfortable to carry this way. It also takes up room in your pocket, and the lanyard could potentially get snagged on things.