Best Multitools 2026: Pliers, Blades and Weight Compared

The Leatherman Wave+ is the best multitool for most people in 2026: it has 18 tools, outside-opening blades, replaceable wire cutters and a 25-year warranty. The Leatherman Skeletool CX is the better choice if you want a lightweight tool to clip on a belt every day, and the Gerber Suspension-NXT delivers most of the core functions for far less money. Choose based on how often you will use pliers versus blades, what you are willing to carry and whether you value repairability.

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Quick comparison of the best multitools

Tool counts and weights come from manufacturer spec pages and may differ slightly by version and finish. Always check the listing for the exact configuration.

Best overall: Leatherman Wave+

The Wave+ is the benchmark that other multitools get compared with. It combines needle-nose pliers, regular pliers, replaceable wire cutters, a knife blade, a serrated blade, a saw, scissors, a file and several screwdriver bits, and every main tool opens from the outside without unfolding the handles. That design is what makes it practical on a trail or at a campsite where you only need a blade or a screwdriver.

It weighs about 8.5 oz, so it is a belt-sheath tool rather than a pocket tool. The 25-year warranty from Leatherman is the best in the category and underlines its repairability. If you want one tool for camping, fishing, the garage and the car, this is the safest pick.

Best lightweight daily carry: Leatherman Skeletool CX

The Skeletool CX strips a multitool down to the essentials: pliers, a replaceable wire cutter, a knife, a bit driver, a bottle opener and a carabiner-style clip. At roughly 5 oz it is much lighter than the Wave+ and clips to a pocket or pack, making it easy to keep with you.

It has fewer tools, so you give up scissors, a saw and a file. For many hikers and everyday users, though, those items are rarely used, and the improved comfort and pocketability matter more.

Best heavy-duty: Leatherman Surge

The Surge has larger pliers, a longer reach and 21 tools, including a bigger blade, a saw and heavier-duty scissors. It is built for people who regularly cut, bend and fix: vehicle repair, camp builds and farm tasks. The pliers have a wider jaw and more leverage than smaller tools can offer.

At about 12 oz it is a heavy item for backpacking, and the larger size makes it more awkward to carry. If you mostly need something for the truck, a work belt or a car-camping kit, the weight is worth it.

Best budget: Gerber Suspension-NXT

Gerber’s Suspension-NXT has spring-loaded pliers that open automatically, plus a knife, saw, scissors and screwdriver set that covers basic repairs. It costs roughly half as much as a Wave+ and weighs around 6.7 oz, making it a good first multitool or a vehicle glove-box tool.

The tradeoffs are build quality and finish. Pivots and tool locks do not feel as refined, and the tool selection leans toward basic tasks. Gerber offers a limited lifetime warranty, which adds peace of mind.

Best keychain size: Leatherman Squirt PS4

The Squirt PS4 is small enough for a keyring or a pocket and still includes spring-action pliers, wire cutters, a small blade, scissors, screwdrivers and a file. It weighs about 2 oz and is a good choice for tackle boxes, first-aid kits and travel (where permitted).

The pliers are small and have limited leverage, so it is not for heavy jobs. It is a convenience tool, not a workhorse.

Best no-pliers pocket tool: Victorinox Huntsman

If you do not need pliers, a Swiss Army knife can be lighter, slimmer and more comfortable in a pocket. The Huntsman offers a main blade, scissors, a saw, a corkscrew and other small tools in a classic form factor. It is useful for food prep, light repairs and camp chores.

Without pliers, you cannot grip hot items, cut wire or twist heavy fasteners, and the slip-joint construction is not designed for pressure. Think of it as a tool for small jobs.

How to choose a multitool

Pliers or no pliers?

Pliers are the heart of a multitool. If you plan to fix gear, cut wire or handle hot cookware, buy a plier-based tool. If you mostly need a blade, scissors and a screwdriver, a Swiss Army knife is lighter.

Outside-opening tools

Tools that open without unfolding the handles save time and prevent frustration when you only need a single blade or bit. This is a major reason the Wave+ and Surge are so popular.

Weight: a worked example

Suppose you carry a multitool on a four-day backpacking trip. The Squirt PS4 at about 2 oz is barely noticeable, the Skeletool CX at about 5 oz is a minor addition, and the Wave+ at 8.5 oz is similar to a small stove. For a car-camping trip, the Surge at 12 oz costs nothing in practice. Match the tool to the weight limit of your trip and your tolerance for carrying it.

Blade type and locks

Look for a locking main blade so it cannot fold on your fingers. A plain edge blade is easier to sharpen, while serrated blades cut rope and fibrous material better. Many multitools offer both.

Replaceable parts and warranty

Wire cutters wear first on pliers-based tools, so replaceable cutters extend life. A long warranty such as Leatherman’s 25 years signals that repair or replacement is possible if something fails.

Carry method

A sheath is essential for large tools, while a pocket clip suits the Skeletool CX. A tool that is awkward to carry tends to be left at home, which defeats the purpose.

Durability and ownership realities

• Pivots loosen and collect grit. Rinse in warm water, dry thoroughly and apply a drop of light oil to the pivots after dusty or sandy trips.
• Screwdriver tips wear first. Using bits on stubborn screws or as pry bars bends them. Use the correct size and avoid excessive force.
• Blades are thinner than a dedicated knife. Avoid prying or batoning with them.
• Airport rules. Multitools with blades are not allowed in carry-on baggage in most countries. Put it in checked luggage.
• Sharpening. A small ceramic rod or pocket stone keeps the blade ready for use.

Which multitool should you buy?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best multitool for camping?

The Leatherman Wave+ is a strong all-rounder thanks to its 18 tools, outside-opening blades and warranty. If weight matters, the Skeletool CX is lighter and easier to carry.

Is a Leatherman better than a Gerber?

Leatherman tools generally have tighter tolerances and a longer warranty, while Gerber models usually cost less. Both brands offer reliable choices, so the answer depends on your budget and how hard you will use it.

Can I fly with a multitool?

Not in a carry-on in most places, because of the blade and pliers. Pack it in checked baggage and verify local rules before travelling.

How do I maintain a multitool?

Clean it with warm water and a soft brush, dry it, and apply a drop of light oil to the pivots. Sharpen the blade as needed and replace worn wire cutters if your model allows.

Are cheap multitools worth buying?

Some budget models like the Gerber Suspension-NXT are good for occasional use. Very cheap unbranded tools often have loose pivots and soft metals that fail quickly, so it is usually better to buy a reputable entry-level model.

Do I need a multitool or a pocket knife?

A knife cuts better, while a multitool adds pliers, screwdrivers and other tools. Many outdoor users carry both: a light knife for cutting and a multitool for repairs.