Ranking expert

The 7 Best Multitools of 2026

Our Best Picks

Leatherman Wingman Multitool with Spring Pliers

Click for pricing and details on the retailer's site

Based on 15K+ reviews

Why We Chose This Product:

The Wingman delivers an ideal balance of functional everyday tools, ergonomic spring-action pliers, and outer-accessible features at an accessible price point. Its specialized blister pack opener and spring scissors cover daily household tasks far better than stripped-down knife-focused competitors.

Who Is It For:

Ideal for first-time multitool owners, home DIYers, and general daily utility users who need full-sized spring-action pliers without carrying unnecessary weight. Pick a Skeletool CX if you prioritize high-grade blade steel over tool variety.

Spring-action pliers reduce hand fatigue during repetitive gripping tasks

Outside-accessible blade opens smoothly using one-handed operation

Uses a basic 420HC combo blade rather than dedicated separate blades

Tech specs:

Tools
14
Weight
7.0 oz
Closed Length
4.0 in
Blade Material
420HC
Based on 4K+ reviews

Why We Chose This Product:

Weighing just 5 ounces while housing a premium 154CM blade, the Skeletool CX cuts excess bulk without sacrificing blade quality or plier strength. It eliminates extraneous tools to give outdoor enthusiasts exactly what they use most on the trail.

Who Is It For:

Perfect for backpackers, hikers, and EDC minimalists who want a premium pocketknife blade paired with heavy-duty pliers. Choose the Wingman instead if you need scissors, files, or a dedicated package opener.

Upgraded 154CM blade holds a sharp edge far longer than standard steel

Ultra-light 5-ounce weight avoids dragging down pockets or trail packs

Limited tool count with only 7 primary functions

Tech specs:

Tools
7
Weight
5.0 oz
Blade Material
154CM
Closed Length
4.0 in
Leatherman 21 Double-Ended Multitool Bit Kit

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Based on 9K+ reviews

Why We Chose This Product:

This expansion set transforms standard bit-driver multitools into a full mobile toolbox. By utilizing a proprietary flat profile, it carries 21 double-ended bits in half the thickness of a traditional hex bit set.

Who Is It For:

Essential for tradespeople, technicians, and Leatherman owners who need to service electronics, machinery, or bicycles on the go. Not useful unless you already own a compatible bit-driver multitool like the Wave+ or Skeletool.

Doubles your driver options across Torx, Hex, Phillips, and flathead profiles

Slim flat design packs 42 bit choices into two compact plastic sleeves

Proprietary flat design is incompatible with standard 1/4-inch round drivers

Tech specs:

Bits
21 double-ended
Profiles
42 total
Material
Zinc-coated steel
Format
Flat profile
Based on 6K+ reviews

Why We Chose This Product:

Unlike simple single-pocket covers, this sheath incorporates elastic side sleeves specifically designed for bit extenders and mini flashlights. Its rugged ballistic nylon construction withstands daily jobsite abrasion far better than standard cases.

Who Is It For:

Tradespeople and field workers who want to carry their 4-inch Leatherman along with driver accessories and a flashlight on a work belt. Pick a leather sheath if you prefer natural materials over tactical synthetic fabric.

Side elastic sleeves fit bit extenders and small pocket flashlights

Durable ballistic nylon fabric shields tools from scuffs and field impacts

Elastic side pockets lose elasticity over years of holding thick accessories

Tech specs:

Material
Ballistic nylon
Closure
Metal snap
Fits
4.0 in - 4.5 in tools
Storage
Dual elastic pockets
Based on 1K+ reviews

Why We Chose This Product:

Crafted from 100% vegetable-tanned full-grain cowhide, this sheath delivers premium durability and a classic aesthetic that ages gracefully. It holds 4-inch tools securely without the extra bulk or modern look of synthetic holsters.

Who Is It For:

Owners of mid-sized tools like the Wave+, Skeletool, or FREE P-series who prefer a classic, long-lasting leather holster. If you need to carry bit kits and flashlights together, the nylon sheath with side pockets is a better fit.

Vegetable-tanned full-grain leather forms a custom contoured fit over time

Heavy-duty stitching and custom rivet snap prevent accidental drops

Vegetable-tanned leather requires a break-in period to stretch for thicker tools

Tech specs:

Material
Full-grain cowhide
Closure
Custom metal snap
Dimensions
4.25 x 1.5 x 0.8 in
Style
Heritage leather
Based on 500+ reviews

Why We Chose This Product:

The ST1 organizes your entire daily carry rig into a single leather belt panel. By mounting your multitool, pen, flashlight, and key ring together, it eliminates pocket clutter while keeping every essential tool immediately accessible.

Who Is It For:

Tradespeople, technicians, and EDC enthusiasts who carry multiple items daily and want to clear out crowded pants pockets. Choose a single sheath if you only carry a multitool without extra gear.

Consolidates multitool, tactical pen, flashlight, and keys onto one belt organizer

Push-up sleeve cutouts allow rapid single-handed tool extraction

Natural leather stiffness requires several days of wear to break in

Tech specs:

Material
Natural leather
Belt Fit
Up to 1.5 in
Tool Slots
Multitool, Pen, Light
Attachment
Key ring clip
Based on 100+ reviews

Why We Chose This Product:

Featuring a 360-degree rotating belt clip, this rigid holster lets you position your tool at the precise angle needed for easy draws while seated or working in tight spots. It offers quicker access than flap-covered pouches.

Who Is It For:

Construction workers, mechanics, and utility operators who need fast, angled access to their multitool throughout the workday. Choose a leather organizer if you want a lower-profile appearance.

360-degree rotating clip adjusts angle for sitting or climbing ladders

Form-fitted rigid housing allows smooth one-handed tool draw and re-sheathing

360-degree rotating clip mechanism can feel stiff or loosen after heavy use

Tech specs:

Material
Rigid nylon
Clip
360-degree rotating
Size
4.72 x 1.57 x 0.78 in
Pockets
Two side elastic

Essential Tips For Choosing The Right leatherman

Selecting the Right Tool Size and Form Factor

A full-size multitool (4 inches closed) provides heavy-duty pliers and full-length blades for demanding repair jobs. Compact pocket tools (under 3.5 inches) and minimalist pocketknife hybrids trade heavy clamping force for ultra-light carry in a pocket or on a keychain.

Blade Steel and Edge Types

Standard 420HC stainless steel offers good rust resistance and is easy to sharpen in the field. Upgraded steels like 154CM hold an edge significantly longer during heavy slicing, though they cost more. Consider whether you need a dedicated straight edge, serrated blade, or a combo edge for mixed cutting tasks.

Best leatherman

Bit Compatibility and Driver Options

Standard multitool screwdrivers are limited to fixed flathead and Phillips tips. If you work on electronics, machinery, or bicycles, select a tool compatible with flat bit adapters or bit extension kits to carry dozens of drive profiles without added bulk.

Carry Systems and Sheath Options

Standard factory nylon sheaths protect tools well but lack extra storage. Ballistic nylon with side pockets accommodates bit kits, flashlights, and pens, while full-grain leather holsters offer superior durability and classic styling for daily belt carry.

Frequently asked questions

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