The Leatherman multi-tool is a multi-functional tool that can comfortably fit inside your pocket. Leatherman’s multi-tools often start with pliers and include a variety of other handy implements, meaning you can choose one that uniquely fits your needs. While this elegant travel-friendly companion can't completely replace your standard tools, it can give them a run for their money, because it has the added benefit of being conveniently compact.

Selecting the Right Leatherman

Choosing the right Leatherman can be quite daunting, as there are so many practical and personal factors to consider. Not to worry, Outdoor Warehouse has put together a comprehensive guide to help narrow down your options. We evaluate everything from sizes, designs, features and materials to help you pick your best match.

Sizes

• Heavy-Duty: This multi-tool is made for hard jobs. Favoured by the US Military and artisans, this portable powerhouse is just as tough as the hands that use it.
• Full Size: This tool is the best of both worlds: capability and versatility. Tools in this category can all easily fit inside your pocket, sheath, backpack or glovebox, perfect for the handyman on the go.
• Pliers-Based Box Design: This is arguably the most well-recognised and beloved design. All features are stored in the handles and are only accessible once the tool is opened, making the tool uber-comfortable to carry in your hand and pocket.
• Pliers-Based with One-Hand Accessible Tools: This design is similar to the previous – except for one key difference: there is at least one implement you can access without opening the whole tool. This makes it ideal if you require regular and quick access to a specific implement. ​
  
  

THE ESSENTIAL Designs in THE LEATHERMAN RANGE

Pliers

Typically, there are four types of pliers you can find on a multi-tool:

1. Needle Nose Pliers are great at grasping small items, and bending and manipulating wires. And, because of their design, they have the added benefit of reaching into tight spaces. A great example of this is the Leatherman Bond
2. Regular Pliers tighten and loosen nuts and bolts with ease.
3. Standard Pliers are ideal for cutting wires and string.
4. Hard-Wire Cutters are for those who regularly find themselves needing to cut solid metal wires.

Knife Blades

The pocketknife is the quintessential pocket tool – and the multi-tool can either replace or complement this beloved handy helper. Here are three different types of blade and their function:

​1. Straight Blades are chameleons – they are useful in almost all situations and can perform various tasks, from slicing apples to cutting cords. They make clean cuts and allow for fine control of the blade.

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​2. Serrated Blades are for the more heavy-duty users. They’re perfect for cutting through tough, fibrous materials – like seatbelts and cardbo8rd.

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​3. Combo Blades are for those who want the best of both worlds. This blade has straight and serrated sections, perfect if it’s your only cutting tool.

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Large Bit Driver

A large bit driver is similar to a customisable screwdriver that allows you to swap out the ends, or bits. You can also get double-ended bits. What makes this useful is that each bit has two ends for improved functionality. Most Leatherman multi-tools with a bit driver include extra bits. However, if your needs are more advanced, or you need more options, you can get a full kit with additional bits. You can also find specialised bits, like carbide glass breaker bits for emergencies.

Additional Features

The possibilities are endless when it comes to features. Here are a few unique and useful features you can find on select Leatherman multi-tools:

1. Saws are ideal for frequent campers, crafters, and carpenters.
2. Scissors! All Leatherman multi-tools’ scissors are spring action, meaning they’re easy to use with one hand.
3. Files, and a variety of them for various jobs.
4. Small Bit Drivers are perfect for people who regularly work with small components, from screws on glasses to electronic bits and doohickies.

Materials

Blade Steels

As previously mentioned, the pocketknife is the grandfather of the multi-tool, so, it should come as no surprise that the knife blade is the most frequently used multi-tool feature. Because of this, Leatherman only use the highest quality steels, like 420HC and MangnaCut, when producing their blades. These durable steels offer varying degrees of edge retention, toughness, corrosion resistance, and sharpening ease.

Common on many Leatherman multi-tools, 420HC offers good edge retention and toughness, and is easy to sharpen. The MagnaCut, however, combines edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance for a superior performance.

Making a Leatherman Your Own

Here are a few ways you can get the most out of your new Leatherman, while making it your own:

Accessories

Carry Options

Sheaths are perfect for protecting and storing your multi-tool, especially while travelling. They’re available in nylon, leather, and MOLLE, giving them visual and tactile appeal. Sheaths, however, aren’t just limited to making you a stylish traveller; they also improve ease of access, allowing you to deploy your Leatherman quickly.

Bit Kit Set

This set doubles your multi-tool’s capabilities as it comes with 21 double-ended bits, meaning you have 42 tools at your disposal.

Maintenance

General Upkeep

Leatherman products are made from high-grade stainless steel, meaning it’s corrosion-resistant, but not rust-proof. It’s thus advised you clean, dry, and lubricate your multi-tool regularly to prevent rust from developing. This is especially important if you use your multi-tool in aquatic or marine environments. Because Leatherman wants their products to last a lifetime – they offer a maintenance kit with everything needed to keep your pocket companion in tip-top shape.

Sharpening

Straight-edged blades can be sharpened by using standard equipment. Serrated blades, on the other hand, require more specialised sharpening methods to maintain their sharpness.

Choosing the Right Leatherman Products for You

Now that we’ve covered all the variables you need to consider when looking for a Leatherman that suits all your needs, it’s time to take a look at some of the multi-tools you can find at Outdoor Warehouse:

• Leatherman Bond has a staggering 14 features, including needle nose pliers and a Phillips screwdriver.
• Not to be outdone, the Leatherman Rebar packs a big punch with 17 features, including an electric crimper, and a 420HC regular and serrated knife.
• If you’re looking for a good combo deal, then the Leatherman Wave & Bundle is just what you’re looking for. This bundle consists of an 18-in-one multi-tool, a Leatherman pouch, and a free Ledlenser Solidline SH5 headlamp.
• The Multi-tool Maintenance Kit is designed with the Leatherman enthusiast in mind. It features essential products and tips for servicing your Leatherman.
• And, if you already have all of the above, we suggest the Leatherman Leather Pouch or the Leatherman Accessory Bit Kit.

You can find all these great products, and more, at Outdoor Warehouse, online or in-store. 

At Outdoor Warehouse, we know the best tool is the one you have with you when you need it, so why get caught without multiple? Choosing the right Leatherman for you will allow you to tackle a wide range of tasks with ease, from emergencies to DIY projects. They’re also conveniently portable, cost-effective in the long term, and they’re built to last.

We know that buying a multi-tool is a practical investment if you value versatility and convenience. Life can throw anything your way, but with your Leatherman in hand and Outdoor Warehouse at your side – you’ll always be ready.