The Leatherman Wave Plus is my best overall multi-tool pick for its broad tool selection and practical balance of everyday and repair tasks. The Leatherman Skeletool CX suits buyers who want a lighter, simpler carry, while the Leatherman Surge is aimed at demanding jobs where size matters less than capability. The key tradeoff is straightforward: more tools can expand what you can handle, but they can also add bulk and complexity. Some buyers will get more use from accessible scissors or spring-action pliers than from a high tool count. Read on for how the 11 options differ and which one best fits your routine.
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Key Takeaways
- The Wave Plus is the strongest all-around fit: its 18 functions offer broad utility without the heavy-duty emphasis of the Surge.
- Carry comfort depends on more than tool count: the seven-function Skeletool CX favors a lighter, more focused kit over the broad selection in the Wave Plus or Truss.
- The Surge is aimed at heavier work: its 21 functions and larger format make it a better match for demanding tasks than for buyers prioritizing compact everyday carry.
- Spring-action pliers can help with frequent grip-and-release work: the Wingman makes that feature a practical distinction from models centered on broader tool sets.
- High function counts do not automatically mean better fit: the WETOLS 27-in-1 and Mossy Oak 21-in-1 may appeal to buyers seeking many functions, while build, access, and carry preferences still matter.
| multi-tool | Material | Weight | Model number | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leatherman Wave Plus 18-in-1 S | Stainless steel | 8.5 ounces | 832531 | 25 years |
| Leatherman Wingman Multi-Tool | Stainless steel | 6.88 ounces | 831426 | 25 years |
| Gerber Truss 17-in-1 EDC Multi | Stainless steel | 8.4 ounces | 30-001343 | — |
| Leatherman Wave Plus 18-in-1 M | Stainless steel | 8.5 ounces (318 g) | 832533 | 25 years |
| PERWIN 17-in-1 Stainless Steel | 440A stainless steel | 10.56 ounces | — | — |
| Mossy Oak 21-in-1 Stainless St | Stainless steel | 454 g | _SML | — |
| Gerber Suspension NXT 15-in-1 | Stainless steel | — | 30-001777 | — |
| WETOLS 27-in-1 Stainless Steel | Hardened stainless steel | 9.38 oz | WE-188 | Limited lifetime |
| Leatherman Skeletool CX 7-in-1 | Aluminum | 4.96 ounces | — | 25 years |
| Leatherman Signal 19-in-1 Mult | — | 8 ounces | — | 25 years |
| Leatherman Surge 21-in-1 Heavy | Stainless steel | — | — | 25 years |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Leatherman Wave Plus 18-in-1 Stainless Steel Multi-Tool
I’d put the Wave Plus first for buyers who want one capable tool for household fixes, DIY, and outdoor jobs. Its 18 functions include outside-accessible blades, spring-action scissors, a saw, and replaceable wire cutters, so common tools are available without unfolding the pliers. The replaceable cutters are a practical advantage for people who work with wire regularly: worn cutting edges can be replaced rather than making the whole tool less useful. Compared with the Leatherman Wingman, the Wave Plus offers a broader toolkit and replaceable cutters, while the Wingman is lighter and simpler. At 8.5 ounces, this is still pocket-sized, but it may feel substantial for all-day carry. The main omission is a sheath, sold separately; choose another pick if included belt carry matters more than its wider range.
Pros:- Broad 18-tool selection covers household, DIY, and outdoor tasks
- Replaceable wire cutters can be renewed when their edges wear
- Outside-accessible blades and spring-action scissors are convenient for quick jobs
- Locking tools support more controlled use
Cons:- At 8.5 ounces, it is heavier than the Wingman for routine pocket carry
- Sheath is sold separately
Best for: DIY-minded owners who want a versatile everyday tool for home repairs, gardening, and occasional outdoor use
Not ideal for: Minimalist pocket-carry users who prioritize low weight, or buyers who want a sheath included
- Brand:Leatherman
- Model number:832531
- Number of tools:18
- Material:Stainless steel
- Weight:8.5 ounces
- Dimensions:5 x 3.5 x 1.57 inches
- Notable features:Outside-accessible blades, replaceable wire cutters, spring-action scissors, locking tools
- Warranty:25 years
Our verdict“Choose the Wave Plus if you want a well-rounded, repairable multi-tool and can accept its weight and separate-sheath tradeoff.”
Leatherman Wingman Multi-Tool with Spring-Action Pliers and Scissors
The Wingman is the more approachable everyday option here: it keeps the core mix of pliers, knife, screwdrivers, scissors, and opening tools in a 6.88-ounce package. Spring-action pliers and scissors reduce the effort of repeated hand movements, while one-hand opening and a locking blade make quick tasks easier to manage. Compared with the Wave Plus, it gives up some tool breadth and replaceable wire cutters, but its lighter build makes more sense for someone who expects to carry a multi-tool daily rather than pack it for bigger jobs. The 14-tool set is useful, though its specific combination may leave gaps for specialized repairs. I’d pick it for routine home, work, or camping needs—not as a substitute for a fuller repair kit. Its removable pocket clip adds carry flexibility, and the 25-year warranty is a plus.
Pros:- Lighter than the Wave Plus at 6.88 ounces
- Spring-action pliers and scissors help with repeated tasks
- One-hand opening and a locking blade suit quick-use situations
- Removable pocket clip gives a carry option without a sheath
Cons:- Its 14-tool selection is narrower than the Wave Plus and Gerber Truss
- The listed tool mix may not cover specialized repair needs
Best for: People who want a lighter multi-tool for everyday fixes, basic work tasks, or occasional camping
Not ideal for: DIY users who need a broader toolkit or replaceable wire cutters for frequent wire work
- Brand:Leatherman
- Model number:831426
- Material:Stainless steel
- Number of tools:14
- Weight:6.88 ounces
- Dimensions:3.8 x 1 x 2 inches
- Notable features:One-hand opening, locking blade, spring-action pliers, removable pocket clip
- Warranty:25 years
Our verdict“Pick the Wingman for lighter daily carry and common tasks, but choose the Wave Plus if you need more repair-focused versatility.”
Gerber Truss 17-in-1 EDC Multitool with Pliers, Blades, and Sheath
The Gerber Truss earns its place for buyers who want a broad tool set and a ready-to-use carry solution in the same package. Its 17 functions include pliers, wire cutters, plain-edge and serrated blades, a saw, drivers, scissors, and openers; a sheath is included, unlike the standard stainless Wave Plus listing. The Truss measures 4.25 inches closed and weighs 8.4 ounces, making it close in heft to the Wave Plus rather than the lighter Wingman. That weight can be a drawback for pocket carry, but the locking feature and included sheath suit belt or pack storage. I’d favor the Wave Plus for replaceable cutters and its 18-tool set, while the Truss is the more convenient pick when an included sheath and two blade styles matter more than minimizing carry weight.
Pros:- 17 tools include pliers, a saw, scissors, drivers, and openers
- Plain-edge and serrated blades offer different cutting options
- Sheath is included for belt or pack storage
- Locking feature and lanyard hole add carry and handling options
Cons:- At 8.4 ounces, it may feel heavy for regular pocket carry
- Does not list replaceable wire cutters like the Wave Plus
Best for: Campers and hands-on users who want a varied tool set with a sheath ready for belt or pack carry
Not ideal for: People who carry a multi-tool loose in a pocket and want a lighter option like the Wingman
- Model number:30-001343
- Number of tools:17
- Material:Stainless steel
- Closed length:4.25 inches
- Open length:6.5 inches
- Weight:8.4 ounces
- Included accessory:Sheath
- Other features:Locking feature, lanyard hole
Our verdict“Choose the Truss if you want a sheath included with a broad, lockable tool set and do not mind carrying extra weight.”
Leatherman Wave Plus 18-in-1 Multi-Tool, Black
This black-finish Wave Plus offers the same practical 18-tool formula as the stainless version: outside-accessible blades, spring-action scissors, a saw, locking tools, and replaceable wire cutters. That makes it a strong fit for buyers who want the Wave Plus toolkit but prefer a black exterior. Against the Gerber Truss, it has one more listed tool and replaceable cutters, while the Truss includes a sheath; neither is a lightweight choice, with this Wave Plus weighing 8.5 ounces. I’d choose between this and the stainless Wave Plus by finish preference rather than capability, since the supplied tool features are alike. The tradeoff is practical: the listing does not include a sheath, and the dark finish does not change the underlying tool selection. It suits a buyer who values the Wave platform’s range and specifically wants a black version.
Pros:- 18-tool setup covers a wide mix of household and outdoor jobs
- Replaceable wire cutters add serviceability for frequent wire work
- Outside-accessible blades and spring-action scissors aid quick tasks
- Locking tools support controlled use
Cons:- At 8.5 ounces, it is heavier than the Wingman
- No sheath is listed as included
- The black and stainless Wave Plus listings have similar stated tool features, so finish is the main distinction
Best for: Wave Plus fans who want the 18-tool feature set in a black-finish multi-tool for DIY, home, or outdoor tasks
Not ideal for: Buyers who need an included sheath or want a lighter carry option such as the Wingman
- Brand:Leatherman
- Model number:832533
- Number of tools:18
- Material:Stainless steel
- Color:Black
- Weight:8.5 ounces (318 g)
- Folded size:4 x 1.57 x 0.76 inches
- Warranty:25 years
Our verdict“Pick this version if you want the Wave Plus toolkit in black; choose the stainless listing if finish does not matter to you.”
PERWIN 17-in-1 Stainless Steel Multitool with Self-Locking Tools and Nylon Sheath
The PERWIN 17-in-1 stands out by pairing a broad tool mix with a nylon sheath included and side-locking tools. Its functions cover pliers, a knife, saw, scissors, screwdrivers, and wire tools, giving it a versatile spread comparable to the Gerber Truss. The key handling distinction is that most tools lock open, but the pliers heads do not; buyers should not assume every working part locks in the same way. At 10.56 ounces, it is the heaviest option in this five-product group, well above the Wingman and heavier than either Wave Plus, so it makes more sense in a sheath on a belt or pack than in a pocket. I’d consider it for buyers who prioritize included carry gear and locking functions over low weight or the Wave Plus’s replaceable cutters.
Pros:- 17 functions cover common cutting, gripping, sawing, and screwdriver tasks
- Most tools and the knife lock open
- Nylon sheath is included for belt or pack carry
- 440A stainless steel is specified for the tool
Cons:- At 10.56 ounces, it is heavier than the Wave Plus, Truss, and Wingman
- Pliers heads do not self-lock
- Does not list replaceable wire cutters like the Wave Plus
Best for: Budget-conscious gear users who want a 17-function tool with a sheath for belt or pack carry and locking implements
Not ideal for: Pocket-carry users who are sensitive to weight, or anyone who needs locking plier heads
- Brand:PERWIN
- Model:TR-01
- Functions:17
- Material:440A stainless steel
- Hardness:54 ± 2 HRC
- Folded size:4.3 x 1.57 x 0.78 inches
- Weight:10.56 ounces
- Locking mechanism:Side lock; tools and knife lock open except pliers heads
- Included accessory and warranty:Nylon sheath; lifetime PERWIN warranty
Our verdict“Choose the PERWIN if an included sheath and locking implements matter more than low weight, but skip it for light pocket carry.”
Mossy Oak 21-in-1 Stainless Steel Multitool
The Mossy Oak 21-in-1 puts a wide mix of repair and outdoor tools in one folding package, including pliers, a saw, a ruler, and a screwdriver bit with its own pouch pocket. That spread makes it more versatile than the Leatherman Skeletool CX, which prioritizes a lighter carry and a smaller set of core tools. The self-locking design helps keep deployed tools in place, while the included pouch gives the extra bit somewhere to live rather than loose in a pocket. The tradeoff is weight: at 454 g, it is better suited to a belt or backpack than to unobtrusive pocket carry. Product details also omit dimensions for the open tool and provide no stated warranty, so buyers seeking verified carry measurements or a more established premium alternative may prefer the Leatherman Signal.
Pros:- Combines 21 functions, including pliers, a saw, a ruler, and screwdriver tools.
- Self-locking design helps keep tools in place while deployed.
- Nylon pouch includes a pocket for extra screwdriver bits.
- Useful range for camping, fishing, and simple repairs.
Cons:- At 454 g, it is substantially heavier than the 4.96-ounce Leatherman Skeletool CX.
- The supplied specifications do not list open dimensions or a warranty.
- The broad tool count may be less useful than a lighter, simpler carry for everyday pocket use.
Best for: Campers, hikers, and home-repair users who want a broad set of tools and plan to carry the multitool in a pouch or pack.
Not ideal for: Pocket-carry minimalists and buyers who need listed open dimensions or warranty details before choosing.
- Functions:21
- Material:Stainless steel
- Folded size:4 x 1.8 x 0.8 inches
- Weight:454 g
- Included components:Bottle opener, knife, pliers, punch, ruler, saw, screwdriver, screwdriver bit, sheath, wire cutter
- Design:Self-locking folding multitool
- Model number:_SML
Our verdict“Choose the Mossy Oak if you want a wide, pouch-carried tool set for outdoor outings and basic repairs, not a lightweight pocket companion.”
Gerber Suspension NXT 15-in-1 Multitool with Pliers and Pocket Knife
The Gerber Suspension NXT is the practical middle ground for buyers who want pliers, scissors, a wire stripper, and a pocket clip without carrying a large tool bundle. Its 15 locking tools cover common small repairs, while the lanyard point adds another way to secure it on a hike or at work. Compared with the Mossy Oak 21-in-1, Gerber offers fewer functions but has a more clearly specified everyday-carry setup; compared with the Leatherman Skeletool CX, it brings scissors and more tool variety at the cost of a less minimal design. The 2.25-inch partially serrated blade is compact, and the supplied product information gives no weight or dimensions, making pocket fit harder to judge in advance. It suits buyers who value a useful spread over a deliberately stripped-down carry.
Pros:- Includes needle-nose pliers, scissors, drivers, and a wire stripper.
- Locking outboard tools support a more secure working setup.
- Pocket clip and lanyard point offer two carry options.
- The 15-tool layout balances everyday repair functions with compact carry features.
Cons:- The partially serrated blade is 2.25 inches long, limiting blade length for larger cutting jobs.
- Product details do not provide weight or dimensions, so carry size is difficult to confirm.
- It has fewer listed functions than the Mossy Oak 21-in-1 and WETOLS 27-in-1.
Best for: Commuters, DIY users, and campers who want a pocket-clipped multitool with pliers, scissors, and wire-stripping capability.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need a full-size blade, known carry dimensions, or a lighter, simpler tool set like the Skeletool CX.
- Tool count:15
- Material:Stainless steel
- Blade:2.25-inch partially serrated blade
- Included tools:Needle-nose pliers, wire stripper, flathead drivers, cross drivers, awl, nail file, scissors, can opener, bottle opener
- Carry features:Pocket clip and lanyard point
- Tool design:Locking outboard tools
- Model number:30-001777
Our verdict“Pick the Suspension NXT for clipped everyday carry and useful repair tools, provided its unspecified size and short blade fit your needs.”
WETOLS 27-in-1 Stainless Steel Multitool with Pocket Knife
With 27 functions, the WETOLS is the choice here for buyers who want more than the usual pliers-and-blade combination. Its listed mix includes wire tools, files, saws, scissors, a hammer, a fire starter, and multiple drivers, giving it a broader outdoor and repair brief than the Gerber Suspension NXT. The self-locking design, belt clip, and sheath give several ways to carry and store a tool that weighs 9.38 ounces. That weight and its 4.37-inch closed length make it less appealing for low-profile pocket carry than the Leatherman Skeletool CX, which has fewer functions but weighs 4.96 ounces. The supplied details do not specify the individual bit contents or describe the warranty beyond “limited lifetime,” so buyers who need exact component coverage may prefer a model with clearer documentation.
Pros:- Broad 27-function selection includes wire tools, scissors, saws, a hammer, and a fire starter.
- Self-locking design helps keep tools in place during use.
- Includes both a belt clip and an EDC sheath.
- Hardened stainless steel construction.
Cons:- At 9.38 ounces, it is heavier than the Skeletool CX and may feel bulky for pocket carry.
- Its 4.37-inch closed length is longer than the 3.25-inch Skeletool CX.
- The supplied product details do not identify the individual bit set or explain limited-lifetime warranty coverage.
Best for: Campers and DIY users who want a high-function-count multitool with outdoor extras and expect to carry it in a sheath or on a belt.
Not ideal for: Light-pocket-carry users or buyers who want precise details about every included bit and warranty coverage.
- Tool count:27-in-1
- Material:Hardened stainless steel
- Closed length:4.37 inches
- Overall length:6.65 inches
- Weight:9.38 oz
- Carry features:Belt clip and EDC sheath
- Warranty:Limited lifetime
- Model number:WE-188
Our verdict“Choose the WETOLS for a large mix of outdoor and repair functions, and skip it if a lighter, better-defined pocket setup matters more.”
Leatherman Skeletool CX 7-in-1 Multi-Tool, Onyx
The Leatherman Skeletool CX earns its place by doing less, but carrying that choice well: its 4.96-ounce weight and 3.25-inch folded length suit buyers who want pliers, a straight-edge blade, wire cutters, and a bit driver without a bulky collection of secondary tools. That focused layout contrasts with the Leatherman Signal, which adds outdoor-focused features such as a fire starter, whistle, and sharpener but weighs 8 ounces. It is also much lighter than the WETOLS 27-in-1, though that model offers far more functions. The Skeletool CX is not the pick for broad repair coverage: its seven-tool set omits the scissors, saw, and other extras found on larger options. Its 25-year warranty is a notable reassurance, but buyers should choose it for portability rather than maximum versatility.
Pros:- At 4.96 ounces, it is lighter than the Leatherman Signal and WETOLS 27-in-1.
- Compact 3.25-inch dimensions suit pocket or pack carry.
- Pairs a straight-edge blade with pliers, wire cutters, and a bit driver.
- Backed by a 25-year manufacturer warranty.
Cons:- Seven functions provide less variety than the Gerber Suspension NXT, Mossy Oak, or Signal.
- Does not include a saw, scissors, or the Signal’s outdoor emergency features.
- The compact tool set is less suited to buyers who want one multitool to cover many repair tasks.
Best for: Hikers and everyday-carry users who want a lightweight pocket tool focused on a blade, pliers, wire cutters, and bit driving.
Not ideal for: Campers or repair users who want scissors, a saw, a fire starter, or a broad selection of built-in tools.
- Tool count:7-in-1
- Material:Aluminum
- Weight:4.96 ounces
- Dimensions:3.25 x 1 x 1 inches
- Included features:Straight-edge blade, pliers, bit driver, wire cutters, bottle opener, carabiner clip
- Color:Onyx Black
- Warranty:25 years
Our verdict“Choose the Skeletool CX if low carry weight and core tools matter more to you than a large feature set.”
Leatherman Signal 19-in-1 Multi-Tool, Coyote Tan
The Leatherman Signal stands apart from general-purpose options by adding specific outdoor and emergency tools to its 19-function layout: a ferrocerium fire starter, emergency whistle, and diamond-coated sharpener alongside pliers, wire cutters, a knife, and a saw. That makes it more purpose-built for campers and hikers than the Gerber Suspension NXT, whose tool set leans toward everyday repairs, and more feature-rich than the lightweight Skeletool CX. The compromise is carry weight: at 8 ounces, it is noticeably heavier than the Skeletool CX and may be better on a belt or in a pack than in a light pocket setup. At 4.5 inches long, it remains compact for its tool range, and its 25-year warranty adds long-term backing. Choose it for outdoor readiness, not for the lightest daily carry.
Pros:- Includes a ferrocerium fire starter, emergency whistle, and diamond-coated sharpener.
- Combines outdoor-specific features with pliers, wire cutters, a knife, and a saw.
- Compact 4.5-inch length for a 19-function tool.
- Made in the USA and backed by a 25-year warranty.
Cons:- At 8 ounces, it is substantially heavier than the 4.96-ounce Skeletool CX.
- Its outdoor extras add less value for buyers focused on simple household repairs.
- The 4.5-inch length may be less convenient for unobtrusive pocket carry than smaller options.
Best for: Campers, hikers, and outdoor workers who want emergency-oriented tools alongside pliers, a blade, and a saw.
Not ideal for: Minimalist pocket carriers who want a light tool for routine tasks and do not need fire-starting or signaling features.
- Number of tools:19
- Length:4.5 inches
- Dimensions:4.5 x 1.5 x 0.63 inches
- Weight:8 ounces
- Materials:Stainless steel, DLC coating, Cerakote
- Included outdoor features:Ferrocerium fire starter, emergency whistle, diamond-coated sharpener
- Warranty:25 years
- Country of manufacture:USA
Our verdict“Pick the Signal for camping and hiking where emergency features earn their space, rather than for lightweight everyday carry.”
Leatherman Surge 21-in-1 Heavy-Duty Multi-Tool, Black
The Leatherman Surge is the work-focused choice in this lineup: its large pliers, long blades, and replaceable wire cutters suit demanding repairs better than a lighter everyday-carry design. Its spring-action scissors and interchangeable saw blade and file also give it useful range for projects that call for more than basic cutting and fastening. Compared with the Leatherman Wave Plus, the Surge is the more substantial option, with a heavier build that favors job-site and workshop tasks over pocket comfort. That added capability has a clear cost: at 14.4 ounces, it may feel cumbersome to carry all day, and its folded length is 4.5 inches. I’d choose it for regular hands-on work, not as the lightest tool to keep in a pocket for occasional fixes. The 25-year warranty adds long-term support.
Pros:- Large pliers and long blades are suited to heavier repair tasks
- Replaceable wire cutters can be changed when worn
- Interchangeable saw blade and file add flexibility for project work
- Includes spring-action scissors and a 25-year manufacturer warranty
Cons:- At 14.4 ounces, it is heavy for routine pocket carry
- Its 4.5-inch folded length takes more room than a compact everyday tool
- Its work-oriented size may be excessive for basic household fixes
Best for: Tradespeople, DIYers, and homeowners who want substantial pliers, replaceable wire cutters, and interchangeable cutting tools for frequent repair work
Not ideal for: People who prioritize lightweight everyday carry or want a compact tool for occasional, simple tasks
- Number of functions:21
- Material:Stainless steel
- Color:Black
- Item weight:14.4 ounces
- Item dimensions:5.8 x 4.1 x 1.9 inches
- Folded size:4.5 inches
- Selected tools:Pliers, knife, serrated saw, spring-action scissors, replaceable wire cutters, file, bit driver, screwdrivers, awl, can opener, electrical crimper, and stripper
- Warranty:25 years
Our verdict“Choose the Surge if you value substantial tools and repair versatility more than low carry weight.”
How We Picked
I compared the 11 multi-tools around the jobs buyers are likely to assign them: everyday fixes, general home repairs, outdoor tasks, and heavier work. I weighed the usefulness of the tool mix, how the format supports access and handling, carry burden, and whether a model’s design appears focused on a clear use case. Function count alone did not decide placement; a smaller set can be a better choice when it matches the tasks someone actually performs.
The ranking favors versatile options that suit a wider range of common tasks, then gives more specialized picks their place based on a distinct advantage. The Wave Plus leads for its broad, general-purpose role; focused carry options rank well for buyers who want less bulk, while larger or more feature-packed models suit narrower needs. I also considered tradeoffs: weight, complexity, and a tool mix that may leave some buyers carrying functions they rarely use.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Multi-tools
Before choosing among these multi-tools, I would start with the jobs you expect to do and how often you will carry the tool. A good match is not necessarily the one with the most functions; it is the one whose useful tools are accessible and comfortable enough that you will keep it with you.
Match the Tool Set to Your Real Tasks
Write down a few tasks you handle repeatedly, such as tightening screws, cutting cord, opening packages, or gripping small parts. Then check whether the tool set supports those jobs rather than treating each listed function as equally useful. A long feature list can include tools you rarely need, while a focused design may cover your routine with less bulk. Buyers often overvalue maximum function count before thinking about which tools they can use confidently. If your work spans repairs and outdoor chores, a broad general-purpose layout is usually easier to justify than a narrow specialty tool. For occasional simple fixes, a smaller selection can be the more sensible carry.
Balance Carry Comfort Against Capability
A multi-tool only helps when it is close at hand, so size and weight matter as much as the number of functions. Pocket carry, belt carry, and storage in a vehicle or work kit create different limits. A larger tool may feel worthwhile on a job site but cumbersome for daily pocket use. Think about how often you will carry it, not just how often you imagine using its extra functions. One common mistake is buying for the hardest task you might face and then leaving the tool at home because it feels too bulky. Choose a format that fits your usual routine, and keep a larger option for demanding work if needed.
Check Tool Access and Handling
Tool access affects how useful a multi-tool feels during a real task: a function that is awkward to reach may go unused. Consider whether you need one-handed access, spring-action pliers, or a particular blade or scissor arrangement. Handle shape and grip also matter when a task lasts longer than a quick adjustment. If you often switch between gripping and releasing, spring-action pliers may reduce effort; if your tasks are varied, access to several functions can matter more. Do not assume a higher function count means faster work. Prioritize the actions you repeat, then check whether the design supports them comfortably.
Choose for the Workload, Not the Toughest-Sounding Label
Heavier-duty designs can make sense for repeated repair work, but they add carry bulk that may be wasted on light tasks. For routine household fixes and occasional outdoor use, a balanced tool may be easier to keep nearby. If you regularly work with tougher materials or need a broader set of functions on the job, a larger model can earn its place. A common buying error is treating every multi-tool as a substitute for dedicated full-size tools; leverage and comfort still set limits. Match the tool to the frequency and intensity of your work, and use dedicated tools for jobs that demand them.
Think About Maintenance and Long-Term Use
Moving parts and exposed cutting edges need basic care, particularly if the tool sees wet, dirty, or outdoor conditions. Look at how easily you can clean and dry the tool after use, and whether its construction suits the environment where it will live. A tool carried in a pocket may collect lint and debris; one stored in a kit may sit unused for long periods. Regularly checking pivots, cleaning residue, and keeping cutting edges in suitable condition can help preserve function. Do not choose a complex tool solely for its list of features if you are unlikely to maintain it. A simpler tool that gets cared for can be a better long-term companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Leatherman Wave Plus a better choice than the Surge for most people?
For a general-purpose tool, I would start with the Wave Plus because it balances a broad set of functions with a less specialized role. The Surge is the more compelling fit when your work regularly calls for a larger, heavy-duty format. That added capability comes with more bulk, which can be a drawback for routine pocket carry. If the tool will spend most of its time on home repairs or in a kit, the Surge may suit your workload; for mixed daily tasks, the Wave Plus is easier to recommend.
Should I choose a compact multi-tool if I already own a full tool kit?
A compact model can fill the gap between having a full kit nearby and needing a quick fix while away from it. The Skeletool CX is the focused option in this lineup for buyers who value lighter carry over a large tool selection. It will not replace a comprehensive set of tools, and that is not the point. Think about which small tasks catch you without your kit, then check whether the compact tool covers them. If you need many functions at once, a broader model may serve you better.
Does a higher function count make a multi-tool more useful?
Not on its own. A higher count can mean more options, but it can also add complexity and carry bulk without improving your most common tasks. Compare the actual functions you expect to use, along with how accessible and comfortable they are. The WETOLS 27-in-1 and Mossy Oak 21-in-1 stand out by listed count, while the Wave Plus makes a stronger case as a balanced general-purpose pick. Decide from your task list rather than the headline number.
Which multi-tool feature matters most for frequent small repairs?
There is no single feature that suits every repair, so start with the action you repeat most. Frequent gripping and releasing can make spring-action pliers, as found on the Wingman, appealing. Regular cutting, screw adjustments, or other tasks may call for a different tool mix or easier access to those functions. If a repair takes sustained force, a multi-tool may not offer the leverage or comfort of a dedicated tool. Choose around repeated jobs, not one rare scenario.
Which of these multi-tools makes the most sense as a first purchase?
The Wingman is a reasonable first pick for someone who wants a straightforward general-purpose tool and values spring-action pliers. Buyers who expect a wider range of repair tasks may prefer the Wave Plus, while those most concerned about pocket carry may lean toward the Skeletool CX. Before choosing, list the jobs you expect to handle and decide where you will keep the tool. A first multi-tool should feel manageable and useful in that setting, rather than simply offering the most functions.
Conclusion
For the best overall, I recommend the Leatherman Wave Plus as the most balanced choice for mixed everyday and repair tasks. The PERWIN 17-in-1 is my best value-style pick for buyers drawn to a broad function set with a sheath, while the Leatherman Surge is the best premium-style choice for heavier work when its larger format fits your routine. For beginners, the Leatherman Wingman offers a practical starting point, especially for buyers who want spring-action pliers. Choose the Skeletool CX for focused, lighter carry; the Signal for outdoor-oriented functions; or the Gerber Truss when you want a broad set from Gerber. My final test is simple: buy for the jobs you do often, then make sure the tool is comfortable enough to carry where those jobs happen.
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