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Far too often we find ourselves gifting – and being gifted – stuff that we never use. Sure, it’s the thought that counts, but how much better is a present that you use every day? Luckily, we’ve found a solution to this old problem: Leatherman multitools.
Most people know about Leatherman (even those of us who aren’t particularly handy or outdoorsy). The reason for Leatherman’s notoriety is pretty straightforward: founder Tim Leatherman invented the modern multitool. Back in 1983, Leatherman released the first multipurpose tool. It quickly became a hit, and since then, the brand has become a staple in the pockets of everyone from outdoorsmen to fishermen to urban dads.
Right now, the site has its bestselling Surge Multitool in stock and available online, making it a prime time to pick up an essential preparedness accessory and a potential life-saving device.
MUST HAVE
Surge Multitool
The Surge boasts a whopping 21 tools, providing just about everything that you or your giftee would need. You’ve got all the classics (think pliers, wire cutter, wire stripper, scissors, screwdrivers, etc) plus a few upgrades such as a large serrated knife and saw. Despite this abundance of tools, the Surge is lightweight at just 12 ounces and measure just 4.5 inches when closed. Leatherman says these are their largest pliers, with the longest multi-tool blades and high-quality 420HC stainless steel build.
While they are great for hiking, fishing and camping, people are now buying these multitools as essential parts of their emergency supply kits and survival packs too. A great everyday carry, the tools are small enough to stash in your bag, car and home. They’re portable enough to travel with too, though you’ll want to check the latest TSA regulations to see if you can carry these on the plane.
Leatherman’s tools make some of the best gifts for a few key reasons. Most importantly, they’re just plain useful. When it comes to gifting, this is a big plus. Every time your recipient uses their Leatherman (which will be a lot) they’ll be reminded of you. The streamlined gadgets pack as many as 29 tools into one device, ensuring that your giftee can tackle any obstacle. And while they’re essential for survivalists, multipurpose tools are surprisingly handy in normal, everyday situations too, such as opening bottles or cans, fixing hardware, or cutting food at a picnic.
Leatherman tools are also instantly recognizable and well-known for their rugged quality. Ask any fisherman, outdoorsman or overall everyday carry pro about Leatherman and they’ll either know the brand or pull one out of their pocket. This means that your giftee will understand right away that they’ve just received a long-lasting multitool.
TOP REVIEWED
Leatherman Signal
Shopping for a serious outdoorsman? Go with Leatherman’s Signal. The classic multitool setup provides needlenose and regular pliers, a very effective knife, a saw and even a built-in hammer (great for, say, tent stakes). The Signal also has some specialized survival tools such as a safety whistle, a fire-starter ferrocerium rod and a diamond sharpener. All-in-all, you get 19 tools packed into a compact 4.5-inch gadget.
Like some of Leatherman’s other multitools, the Signal has the added benefit of both closed and open access to the tools. This means quick, easy access at all times. And once you’re finished using this multitool, a carabiner lets you quickly hook it onto a belt or backpack.
BESTSELLER
Leatherman Wave+
The Wave+ is Leatherman’s international best-seller that’s been elevated with replaceable, durable wire cutters. The gadget’s 18 tools are enough to tackle anything and, thanks to outside-accessible features, you can grab most of the tools when the contraption is closed or open. Leatherman’s locking technology ensures that each tool (besides the plier head) remains locked in place while you work. Some of the highlights on the Wave+ include two 420HC knives (one regular, one serrated) and a saw.
BEST SHEARS
Leatherman Raptor Rescue
These Raptor shears might look like odd scissors, but they’re actually a highly effective tool for uniformed response professionals. Leatherman developed the Raptor shears with input from EMTs, special operations medics and fire professionals in order to craft a tool for safety emergencies.
The result is a streamlined multitool with the essentials for emergency scenarios, such as strap cutters, an oxygen tank wrench and a carbide glass breaker. The shears also include a utility holster for quick access. Obviously, this is a great gift for emergency professionals, but they also make a great addition to any civilian emergency kit.
CARABINER TOOL
Leatherman Clean Contact Carabiner
Now more than ever, sanitary measures are a part of daily life. This Clean Contact no-touch tool from Leatherman adds an extra layer of protection against viruses, germs and bacteria by reducing your physical contact with common shared surfaces. The clever tool lets you safely navigate everyday risks by opening doors, punching keypads and pressing elevator buttons without touching anything.
The tool itself is made of antimicrobial 260 copper alloy and designed to be kept on a keyring or clipped to your pocket. It’s a great gift for anyone in 2020, but it’s especially thoughtful for immune-compromised loved ones.
What to Know Before Choosing a Multitool
Even though the best multitools are meant to tackle any problem, there’s still a decent variety to choose from. Before making a purchase, think about how your intended recipient will use their new Leatherman. Below are a few considerations to help guide your shopping.
Type of Multitool: Although Leatherman is famous for their pliers multitool, they’ve got a few other types of multitools worth considering. If you want something small and easy for everyday carry, check out their pocket knife multitool. Plus, there are also a few specialized multitools, such as one that’s worn as a bracelet and another no-touch tool for staying sanitary.
Tools: No matter how your recipient intends to use their new multitool, one thing is certain: it’s always better to have too many tools than not enough. This is one of the reasons why Leatherman tools are so beloved. They pack a massive number of tools into one compact contraption. So, be sure to consider your recipient’s needs and pick a multitool that has everything.
Size: When it comes to multitools, size does matter. No one wants to overcrowd an already stuffed pocket or backpack, but, on the flip side, some users might need, say, a bigger knife or pliers. As a reference, the Leatherman tools on our list range from 2.5 to 5 inches when closed.
Opening/closing: The ability to easily access any tool in your device makes a big difference. Some of Leatherman’s tools feature upgraded opening/closing mechanisms, such as their new FREE collection which boasts a special magnetic architecture.
