Leatherman's pliers-based multitools are made in Portland, Oregon, at the company's own factory, and have been since Tim Leatherman started production there in 1983. It is one of the few multitool brands still manufacturing in the United States, and the answer to "where is it made" is the same for the Wave, the Arc, the Surge and the Skeletool. This guide covers what is made in Portland, what is not, and why it matters.
Made in Portland
Every pliers-based Leatherman: Wave+, Arc, Wave Alpha, Charge+, Surge, Free P2 and P4, Skeletool, Signal, Rebar, Wingman, Sidekick, Super Tool 300, MUT, OHT, Bond, Raptor, and the keychain Squirt and Micra. The frames, tools and assembly happen in the Portland plant, which employs several hundred people and does its own stamping, machining and heat treating.
What is sourced elsewhere
Some raw materials and components come from outside the U.S., as they do for almost any manufacturer: certain steels, G10 and carbon fiber scale materials, and accessories like nylon sheaths and bit kits. Leatherman markets its tools as made in the USA and the core manufacturing is, but not every input is domestic.
Why it matters
Two reasons. The 25-year warranty is backed by the factory that made the tool, which means a Leatherman sent in for repair comes back repaired rather than replaced with something else. And Portland has made the same designs long enough that a 1990s Wave and a 2026 Wave+ share parts, which is why the old ones are still in service.
Our sheaths
Also made in the U.S.A. Every Clip & Carry sheath and holster is molded from .08-inch kydex, handmade in the U.S.A. by military veterans, with adjustable retention and a lifetime guarantee. A Wave sheath or an Arc sheath is a Portland tool in an American sheath.
Frequently asked questions
Are Leatherman tools made in the USA?
Yes. The pliers-based tools are made in Portland, Oregon.
Is the Leatherman Wave made in the USA?
Yes.
Is the Leatherman Arc made in the USA?
Yes, in Portland.
Are any Leatherman tools made in China?
The multitools are made in Portland. Some accessories and components are sourced abroad.
Who owns Leatherman?
Leatherman Tool Group is privately held, founded by Tim Leatherman, and remains independent.
The bottom line
Portland, Oregon, since 1983. Carry it in a sheath made here too.
Related reading
Who owns Leatherman?
The best made-in-USA multitools
What is a Leatherman?
