The Leatherman Signal is the multitool for being outside when things go wrong. Alongside the pliers and blade it carries a ferrocerium fire starter, an emergency whistle, a hammer face, and a diamond sharpener, in a 4.5-inch, 7.5-ounce frame with a carabiner clip. It is the most-searched Leatherman after the Wave, and this review is about whether the survival tools are useful or a gimmick, and how the Signal carries.
Leatherman Signal specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Tools | 19 |
| Survival tools | Ferro rod fire starter, emergency whistle, hammer, diamond sharpener |
| Blade | 420HC combo, one-hand opening |
| Closed length | About 4.5 inches |
| Weight | About 7.5 ounces |
| Carry | Carabiner clip; nylon sheath |
| Warranty | 25 years |
| Street price | Roughly $120 to $130; confirm on the listing |
The survival tools, honestly
The ferro rod is real and throws sparks; it is small, so it is a backup fire starter, not your primary. The whistle is loud and the kind of thing you never need until you do. The hammer face on the pliers drives tent stakes. The diamond sharpener is the sleeper: it keeps the blade usable on a multi-day trip without carrying a stone. None of it is a gimmick, and none of it replaces dedicated gear. It is the difference between having something and having nothing.
As a multitool
Underneath, the Signal is a solid 19-tool Leatherman: spring-loaded needle-nose pliers, replaceable wire cutters, a one-hand combo blade, a saw, an awl, a bit driver. It is lighter than a Wave because it drops the scissors and second blade. For camping, hiking, and emergency kits it is the most thoughtful package Leatherman makes; for an electrician it is the wrong tool.
Carrying it
The Signal is the multitool most likely to get wet and muddy, and Leatherman ships it in a nylon sheath that holds water against it. A kydex sheath molded to the Signal does not absorb anything, rinses clean, clicks, and mounts to a pack strap with a MOLLE clip, which is where a Signal spends its life.
Signal vs Wave+
Same brand, different jobs. The Wave+ has more everyday tools and outside-accessible blades. The Signal trades two of those for fire, sound, and a hammer. Buy by where you use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Leatherman Signal worth it?
For camping, hiking, and emergency kits, yes. For shop or job-site work, the Wave+ or Surge is better.
Does the Signal have a fire starter?
Yes, a removable ferrocerium rod that strikes on the blade spine.
How much does the Signal weigh?
About 7.5 ounces.
Does the Signal come with a sheath?
It ships with a nylon sheath. A kydex sheath is the upgrade for wet use.
Is the Signal blade one-hand opening?
Yes.
The bottom line
The Signal is the outdoors Leatherman, and the survival tools earn their place. Carry it in a sheath that does not hold water.
Related reading
Best sheath for the Leatherman Signal
Leatherman Wave+ review
Best multitools in 2026
