Leatherman makes about twenty pliers-based multitools and most of them are good, which does not help you pick one. This ranking is by what each tool is best at, with the honest verdict on who should buy it, and the sheath we make for it. If you want the short version: Wave+ for most people, Arc for the best, Skeletool for pockets.
1. Leatherman Wave+
The default. 18 tools, outside-accessible blades, replaceable wire cutters, 8.5 ounces, about $120. It does everything most people use a multitool for and nothing you have to pay extra for. Wave sheath.
2. Leatherman Arc
The best. A MagnaCut blade, the magnetic FREE architecture so all 20 tools open one-handed and lock, a DLC coating, same weight as a Wave+, at roughly double the price. Buy it if you use the knife and want every tool one-handed. Arc sheath.
3. Leatherman Skeletool CX
The one people carry every day: seven tools, 5 ounces, a 154CM blade. Pliers, knife, driver, and nothing you do not use. Skeletool sheath.
4. Leatherman Surge
The heavy-duty one: 21 tools, 12.5 ounces, big pliers, a real saw, replaceable blade and file. For the shop and the job site. Surge sheath.
5. Leatherman Free P4
FREE architecture with 21 one-hand locking tools and a 420HC blade, for people who want the Arc's interface at a lower price. Free P4 sheath.
6. Leatherman Signal
The outdoors tool: ferro rod, whistle, hammer, diamond sharpener on a 19-tool frame. For camping and emergency kits. Signal sheath.
7. Leatherman Charge+
The Wave+ with a 154CM blade and aluminum or titanium scales. For someone who wants the Wave with a better knife and does not want to pay for MagnaCut. Charge sheath.
8. Leatherman Wave Alpha
The Wave layout with a MagnaCut blade, G10 scales and one-hand scissors. The Arc's blade in the classic frame. Wave Alpha sheath.
9. Leatherman Super Tool 300
The big pliers tool: heavy, simple, cheap, and unbreakable. For a toolbox or a truck. Super Tool 300 sheath.
10. Leatherman Wingman / Sidekick / Rebar
The entry tools, $60 to $80, with most of the Wave's function and inside-opening blades. The Rebar is the sleeper: Wave-size pliers at half the price. Wingman / Sidekick / Rebar sheath.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best Leatherman?
The Wave+ for most people, the Arc for the best regardless of price.
What is the best Leatherman for EDC?
The Skeletool CX, because it is light enough to carry every day.
Is the Arc worth it over the Wave+?
If you use the knife daily and want one-hand access to every tool, yes.
What is the toughest Leatherman?
The Surge or the Super Tool 300.
Which Leatherman for camping?
The Signal.
The bottom line
Wave+, Arc or Skeletool, depending on whether you want value, the best, or the lightest. Each has a sheath molded to it.
Related reading
Which Leatherman should I buy?
Best Leatherman for EDC
Best multitools in 2026
