Leatherman has been making multi-tools for over 40 years and has become the reference point in the industry. But with more than a dozen models on the market now, the question becomes: which Leatherman is actually right for you?
We compare five of the most popular models – not against other manufacturers, but against each other. Because the differences lie in the details, and that’s exactly where the right tool separates from the wrong one.
Our top pick upfront: The Wave+ offers the best overall package for most users. We’ll explain why below.
# What all Leathermans have in common
Before we dive into the differences, it’s worth noting that some features are shared across all five models – and these aren’t a given.
25-year warranty – Leatherman repairs or replaces defective tools throughout the entire period. In forums, users regularly report that even 15-year-old models are replaced without hassle. Keep your proof of purchase.
Replaceable wire cutters – All five models allow you to swap out the plier jaws when they become dull. This significantly extends the tool’s lifespan.
Locking blades – Every model has lockable blades that won’t close accidentally under load. This is a safety feature often missing from cheaper competitors.
Build quality – The craftsmanship of all Leatherman models is excellent. Joints are tight, blades move smoothly, and materials are built to last. This quality standard runs through the entire lineup.
Stainless steel construction – All models are made from corrosion-resistant 420HC stainless steel.
# The differences at a glance
| Feature | Wave+ | Signal | Surge | Skeletool | Rebar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 241 g | 213 g | 335 g | 142 g | 190 g |
| Closed length | 10.0 cm | 11.4 cm | 11.5 cm | 10.0 cm | 10.0 cm |
| Number of tools | 18 | 19 | 21 | 7 | 17 |
| Blade steel | 420HC | 420HC | 420HC | 420HC | 420HC |
| Blade accessible from outside | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | – |
| Saw accessible from outside | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | – | – |
| Spring-loaded scissors | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | – | – |
| Bit holder (1/4 inch) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | – |
| Replaceable blades | – | – | ✓ | – | – |
| Awl with eye | – | – | ✓ | – | ✓ |
| Fire starter | – | ✓ | – | – | – |
| Signal whistle | – | ✓ | – | – | – |
| Diamond sharpener | – | ✓ | – | – | – |
| Carabiner hook | – | ✓ | – | ✓ | – |
| Price (approx.) | ~135 € | ~140 € | ~165 € | ~90 € | ~90 € |
Prices as of March 2026, source: Geizhals.de / Amazon.de. Prices vary by color and retailer.
# Our top pick: Leatherman Wave+
The Wave+ is the best-selling Leatherman worldwide – for over 20 years. It’s not the lightest, not the cheapest, and not the model with the most tools. But it’s the one that requires the fewest compromises in actual daily use.
# Strengths
The key feature: four tools – straight blade, serrated blade, saw, and file – are accessible from the outside. This means you don’t need to unfold the tool to reach the blade. In everyday use, this saves enormous amounts of time and frustration.
The spring-loaded scissors are among the best in this class. They cut cleanly through cardboard, fabric, zip ties, and thin rope. The bit holder accepts Leatherman’s own flat, double-sided bits – not standard 1/4-inch hex. The Leatherman Bit Kit with 21 double-sided bits (42 tool functions) is available separately and fits in compact holster sets. Particularly useful: there’s a tungsten carbide glass breaker bit available as an accessory – one side with glass breaker tip, the other a flat screwdriver. A sensible addition to any emergency kit.
# Known weaknesses
The black coating (on the black model) shows wear quickly and reveals use marks after a short time. If appearance matters to you, go for the silver version instead.
A pocket clip is not included – you need to order it separately. At 241 g, the Wave+ is noticeably heavy in your pocket without a clip or holster.
The 420HC blade steel sharpens well but loses its edge faster than higher-grade steels. If you use the blade intensively every day, you should sharpen it every few weeks.
# Worth knowing: Blade length restrictions
Some regions have restrictions on blade length for everyday carry. Check your local laws before carrying any multi-tool, as blade regulations vary by location and circumstance.
# Who is it for?
The Wave+ is the right choice for anyone looking for a single, reliable tool – whether for everyday use, work, camping, or emergencies. No other Leatherman covers so many use cases so reliably.
Leatherman Wave+
# Leatherman Signal – the outdoor specialist
The Signal was specifically designed for outdoor use. It brings three extras that no other Leatherman offers: fire starter, signal whistle, and diamond sharpener. But these extras are precisely where opinions diverge.
# Strengths
At 213 g, the Signal is noticeably lighter than the Wave+ (241 g), even though it has one more tool. The integrated diamond sharpener lets you sharpen the blade in the field – without carrying extra equipment. That’s a genuine advantage over the Wave+ in the backcountry.
The carabiner hook on the body is convenient for attaching to your backpack. The hammer face on the plier joint enables light striking work – a detail the Wave+ lacks.
# Known weaknesses
Coating peels off: Users of the colored versions (especially black) frequently report that the coating peels after just a few weeks and rubs off on your hands. Newer models use a Cerakote ceramic coating that should be more durable – but long-term experience is still lacking. If you want to avoid the risk, choose the stainless steel version without coating.
Whistle doesn’t work well: The built-in signal whistle is one of the most common complaints. Users report it only produces a weak tone and isn’t reliable enough in an emergency. A separate signal whistle weighs almost nothing and works better.
Plastic components: The whistle compartment closure and fire starter holder are made of plastic. These feel less robust compared to the rest of the tool. Whether these parts will hold up after years of heavy use remains to be seen.
Fire starter is a consumable: The ferrocerium rod wears down with every use and eventually needs replacement. Replacement costs extra and isn’t universally available.
# Signal vs. Wave+ – head to head
| Feature | Wave+ | Signal | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 241 g | 213 g | Signal |
| Tools | 18 | 19 | Signal |
| Fire starter | – | ✓ | Signal |
| Whistle | – | ✓ (limited) | Signal |
| Diamond sharpener | – | ✓ | Signal |
| Coating quality | Good (silver) | Problematic (color) | Wave+ |
| Plastic components | None | Whistle/fire starter housing | Wave+ |
| Price | ~135 € | ~140 € | Wave+ |
| Reliability | Proven | Extras have weaknesses | Wave+ |
# Who is it for?
The Signal makes sense for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who want a compact tool with a sharpener and fire starter – and are willing to accept the downsides with the whistle and coating. If you can live without the survival extras, the Wave+ is the more proven tool at the same price.
Leatherman Signal
# Leatherman Surge – the powerhouse
The Surge is the largest and most powerful Leatherman in the regular lineup. If you need a tool that won’t hit its limits even during heavy work, this delivers maximum performance – at a surprisingly fair price.
# Strengths
The Surge has by far the largest pliers and longest blades in the Leatherman range. The plier jaws grip harder, the leverage is noticeably greater than the Wave+ or Signal. For electricians, tradespeople, and anyone who regularly bends or cuts wire, this is a decisive advantage.
The unique feature: the blades are replaceable. The blade and saw can be swapped without tools. No other model offers this, and it saves money over time – you replace just the blade, not the entire tool.
Four tools are accessible from outside: straight blade, serrated blade, saw, and file. The bit holder is compatible with Leatherman’s double-sided flat bits – the same bit kit as the Wave+. The spring-loaded scissors cut more forcefully thanks to the tool’s overall size.
With 21 tools, the Surge has the largest feature set in this comparison – and it’s the only model that includes both an awl with eye and scissors.
# Known weaknesses
335 g is heavy: The Surge is almost 100 g heavier than the Wave+ and more than twice as heavy as the Skeletool. Without a holster, it’s not practical to carry in your pocket. Without a belt holster or backpack, it falls short as an everyday carry item.
Too large for fine work: The large plier jaws grip powerfully but are too clumsy for delicate electronics or jewelry work. If you regularly work on intricate tasks, the slimmer Wave+ is your better choice.
Holster is basic: The included nylon holster is functional but cheaply made. Many users swap it for a leather holster – which costs another 20–30 € extra.
Overkill for casual users: If you only use your multi-tool occasionally for opening packages or adjusting screws, you don’t need a Surge. The size and weight only pay off if you regularly put real muscle behind it.
# Surge vs. Wave+ – head to head
| Feature | Wave+ | Surge | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tools | 18 | 21 | Surge |
| Blade length | 7.4 cm | 7.9 cm | Surge |
| Replaceable blades | – | ✓ | Surge |
| Plier strength | Good | Excellent | Surge |
| Scissors | ✓ | ✓ (larger) | Surge |
| Weight | 241 g | 335 g | Wave+ |
| Fits in pocket | Yes (tight) | No | Wave+ |
| Fine work | Good | Limited | Wave+ |
| Price | ~135 € | ~165 € | Wave+ |
# Who is it for?
The Surge is for anyone who needs their Leatherman as a real tool – not as an occasional helper. Electricians, tradespeople, technicians on job sites, or field service workers benefit most. If you’re looking for a portable all-around tool, stick with the Wave+.
Leatherman Surge
# Leatherman Skeletool – the lightweight
The Skeletool takes a completely different approach: just seven tools, but extremely light and compact. It’s the Leatherman for minimalists who want a full-featured tool in their pocket without noticing it’s there.
# Strengths
At 142 g, the Skeletool weighs almost 100 g less than the Wave+. This difference is significant in daily carry – the Skeletool barely registers in your pocket. The integrated carabiner lets you attach it to your belt, backpack, or keychain without a separate holster.
The blade is made from 420HC steel (154CM on the CX variant – higher quality) and is accessible one-handed from outside. The bit holder takes Leatherman’s double-sided flat bits, handling basic screwwork.
# Known weaknesses
Plier jaws are too thin: Multiple users report that the narrow plier jaws slip under strong pressure. In isolated cases, the jaws have even broken – a problem that doesn’t occur with full-size models.
No scissors, no saw: This is the biggest drawback. Scissors are one of the most-used tools on a multi-tool. If you cut regularly, you’ll miss them badly.
Open design collects dirt: The skeletal design looks great but lets sand, dust, and lint into the interior. After a few weeks in your pocket, the tool needs cleaning.
Bit holder loosens over time: Users report that the bit slot loses tension after a few months and bits can fall out.
Limited torque: The light, open design flexes noticeably under strong load on the bit holder. Stubborn screws lack the rigidity of the larger models.
# Skeletool vs. Wave+ – head to head
| Feature | Wave+ | Skeletool | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 241 g | 142 g | Skeletool |
| Tools | 18 | 7 | Wave+ |
| Scissors | ✓ | – | Wave+ |
| Saw | ✓ | – | Wave+ |
| Carabiner | – | ✓ | Skeletool |
| Plier stability | Excellent | Limited | Wave+ |
| Carry comfort | Noticeable | Barely noticeable | Skeletool |
| Price | ~135 € | ~90 € | Skeletool |
# Who is it for?
The Skeletool is ideal as a lightweight everyday tool or as a backup to a full-featured multi-tool at home. As your only tool for outdoor or emergency use, it’s too limited.
Leatherman Skeletool
# Leatherman Rebar – the workhorse
The Rebar is the most underrated Leatherman. It skips the modern bells and whistles, focusing on what a multi-tool is fundamentally about: a robust plier, solid blades, and reliable tools – at a fair price.
# Strengths
The Rebar delivers 17 tools in just 190 g. That’s 51 g lighter than the Wave+ and almost as well-equipped. The pliers rank among the most robust in the entire Leatherman lineup – stable, gripping well, and built for serious work.
The awl with eye is a tool that the Wave+, Signal, and Skeletool lack: perfect for punching holes in leather, thick fabric, or plastic, and for repairing gear in the field.
The Rebar is compact, slim, and robust – it pursues the classic multi-tool concept without experimentation. Users praise its intuitive operation and practical tool selection.
# Known weaknesses
No tools accessible from outside: This is the biggest difference from the Wave+. All blades and tools are only accessible from the inside – you always need to unfold the tool first. With cold or wet hands, this is a genuine disadvantage.
No scissors: Anyone who regularly cuts – zip ties, packaging, thread – will miss the scissors. The Wave+, Signal, and Surge all have spring-loaded scissors; the Rebar doesn’t.
No bit holder: Without a bit holder, the Rebar is limited to the fixed screwdrivers for screw work. The Wave+ lets you use different bits – offering far more flexibility.
Always requires two hands: Due to missing external access, one-handed operation is basically impossible. If you frequently have only one hand free, you’ll quickly hit its limits.
# Rebar vs. Wave+ – head to head
| Feature | Wave+ | Rebar | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tools | 18 | 17 | Wave+ |
| Weight | 241 g | 190 g | Rebar |
| Blade accessible from outside | ✓ | – | Wave+ |
| Scissors | ✓ | – | Wave+ |
| Bit holder | ✓ | – | Wave+ |
| Awl with eye | – | ✓ | Rebar |
| Plier strength | Excellent | Outstanding | Rebar |
| Price | ~135 € | ~90 € | Rebar |
# Who is it for?
The Rebar is the best choice for anyone who wants a solid, straightforward tool at a good price – and doesn’t mind always needing both hands free. It works great as a first Leatherman, a glovebox tool, a boat kit, or in a toolbox. If you need more versatility and external access, go with the Wave+.
Leatherman Rebar
# Which model for which use case?
| Use Case | Recommendation | Why |
|---|---|---|
| All-around tool | Wave+ | Best balance of features, proven track record, and price |
| Outdoor & camping | Signal | Sharpener, fire starter, and lighter weight |
| Heavy work / trades | Surge | Largest pliers, longest blades, replaceable blades |
| Lightweight everyday (EDC) | Skeletool | 100 g lighter, carabiner, unobtrusive |
| Robust workhorse | Rebar | Best pliers for light weight, fair price |
| Emergency kit | Wave+ | Scissors, saw, pliers, and bit holder – all immediately accessible |
| Getting started / budget | Rebar or Skeletool | Rebar as solid foundation, Skeletool if weight is critical |
# Care and maintenance
All five models last decades with proper care. A few basic rules apply to every Leatherman:
Cleaning: After use in sand, saltwater, or dust, unfold the tool and clean it with an old toothbrush or compressed air. Then apply a drop of oil (Ballistol, WD-40, or sewing machine oil) to the joints.
Sharpening the blade: 420HC steel (all five models) sharpens easily with a regular whetstone or pocket sharpener. On the Signal, the built-in diamond sharpener handles basic maintenance in the field.
Replacing blades (Surge only): The Surge allows tool-free swapping of the blade and saw. Replacement blades are available directly from Leatherman – a major long-term advantage.
Replacing wire cutters: When the plier jaws become dull, they can be swapped on all models. Replacement parts are available directly from Leatherman or through specialty retailers.
Using the warranty: Leatherman repairs or replaces defective tools within the 25-year warranty. According to user reports, the process is straightforward – even for tools over ten years old.
# Our conclusion
The Wave+ remains our top recommendation. Not because it’s the newest or most exciting model – but because it’s proven itself in everyday use, outdoors, and in emergencies for over 20 years. The combination of tool variety, external access, bit holder, and proven mechanics is unbeatable in this price range.
Already own a Wave+ and want more? Grab the Signal for outdoor adventures with a built-in sharpener and fire starter (knowing its weaknesses). The Surge for anyone who needs a multi-tool as real equipment – more power, longer blades, and replaceable blades.
The Skeletool is the best backup tool – for all those days when the Wave+ feels too heavy. And the Rebar is the solid entry point: robust, honest, and without frills – the workhorse for anyone who doesn’t want to pay for features they won’t use.
Prices as of March 2026, based on Geizhals.de and Amazon.de. Prices vary by color, configuration, and retailer. As an Amazon Partner, we earn from qualified purchases – at no additional cost to you.
