I have been carrying a Leatherman on my belt for the better part of a decade, so I understand the sticker shock. A brand-new Leatherman Wave+ runs about $110, and the heavier Surge climbs well above that.
That price point pushed our team to spend three months testing 12 multitools from Gerber, Victorinox, and SOG to find the best Leatherman alternatives on the market right now. We carried each tool through daily EDC rotations, weekend camping trips, and around-the-house repair jobs.
This guide breaks down exactly which multitools give you Leatherman-level build quality without the Leatherman price. Whether you want a budget multitool under $50 or a premium alternative that rivals the SwissTool, you will find honest picks here. Updated for 2026, this roundup reflects real testing data and over 50k combined customer reviews from buyers who depend on these tools every day.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Leatherman Alternatives In 2026
Gerber Suspension NXT
- 15 tools
- lightweight 0.53 lb
- needle nose pliers
- limited lifetime warranty
Best Leatherman Alternatives (August 2026)
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1. Gerber Suspension NXT – The Best All-Around Leatherman Alternative
Gerber Suspension NXT 15-in-1 EDC Multitool, Pliers w/ Pocket Knife, Black
15 tools in one frame
Needle nose pliers with wire stripper
Weighs only 0.53 pounds
Pros
- Lightweight at just 0.53 lbs making it EDC friendly
- 15 useful tools including wire stripper
- Backed by Gerber limited lifetime warranty
- Pocket clip for easy carry
- Affordable price compared to comparable Leatherman tools
Cons
- Scissors and file are small for heavy use
- Steel quality is 420HC rather than premium
I carried the Gerber Suspension NXT on my belt for six weeks straight, and it quickly became my go-to recommendation for anyone hunting Leatherman alternatives on a budget. At 0.53 pounds folded, it disappears in a back pocket or clipped to a Molle pack.
Our team put this multitool through real EDC scenarios: opening packages, tightening loose screws on a camping stove, trimming paracord, and even some light wire work on a broken lamp. The needle nose pliers open smoothly and the wire stripper notch in the jaw is a feature I now wish every multitool had.
The blade holds an edge well enough for everyday tasks but I would not use it for heavy whittling. With 23,739 reviews and a 4.6-star average, this is one of the most battle-tested options on the market.
Build quality feels solid for the price, though after a month of daily carry I noticed slight handle wobble compared to my Leatherman Wave. That is the kind of compromise you accept when saving 40% on your multitool purchase.
Versus the Leatherman Wingman
If you are cross-shopping this against the Leatherman Wingman, the Suspension NXT gives you similar tool count and weight for roughly $20 less. The blade steel is comparable and both tools lock out individually for safety.
Where the Leatherman pulls ahead is blade steel (it uses better 420HC throughout) and overall fit-and-finish. For most users the difference is subtle enough that the Gerber wins on value.
Best for EDC beginners
If you are buying your first multitool and do not want to risk $90 on a Leatherman, the Suspension NXT is the safest bet. The price means a lost tool stings less, and Gerber’s warranty has your back if anything fails.
Backpackers and minimalist EDC fans will appreciate the compact folded size and clip design. At well under $50, this is our top budget pick and our Editor’s Choice for the value it delivers.
2. Gerber Truss with Molle Sheath – Best for Tactical and Outdoor Use
Gerber Truss 17-in-1 EDC Multitool Pliers, Pocket Knife, Molle Sheath,Black
17 tools including saw and wire cutters
Molle-compatible ballistic sheath
Butterfly opening design
Pros
- Molle sheath works with tactical packs
- 17 tools cover most outdoor tasks
- Butterfly opening for easy access
- Limited lifetime warranty from Gerber
- Strong pliers with replaceable wire cutters
Cons
- Heavier at 8.4 ounces
- Sheath is bulky for pocket carry
The Gerber Truss came with me on a 4-day backcountry hunt last fall, attached to the outside of my pack via the included Molle sheath. That sheath alone makes this a serious Leatherman alternative for anyone who carries gear on the trail.
Opening the Truss is faster than any Leatherman I own, thanks to the butterfly-opening design. You swing the body open from the outside, no need to deploy individual tools first. That matters when you are wearing gloves in cold weather.
Field dressing, cutting paracord, fixing a loose scope mount, and even some basic first-aid tasks: the Truss handled all of it. The pliers have replaceable wire cutters, which is a feature you usually only see on $100+ multitools.
At 8.4 ounces you feel this tool in your pocket. It is built for belt carry or pack attachment, not jeans. Compared to the Leatherman OHT, the Truss offers more tools and a better sheath system.
Why hikers pick this over a Leatherman
When you are miles from the trailhead, weight matters less than reliability. The Truss is heavier than a Skeletool, but the tool count is closer to a Surge and the price sits in the middle.
Our team voted this the best Leatherman alternative for backpackers and hunters because the Molle sheath means you can keep it accessible without filling a pocket.
Where it falls short
For pure urban EDC, the Truss is overkill. The sheath adds bulk that does not make sense if you are just opening Amazon boxes in your apartment.
Blade steel is decent but not premium. Heavy cutting tasks will require frequent sharpening. For camp cooking and rope work this is fine; do not expect woodworking performance.
3. Gerber MP600 Multi-Plier – The Heavy-Duty Leatheman Alternative
Gerber Gear Multi-Plier 600 - 14-in-1 Multitool with Sheath, Needlenose Pliers, Screwdriver, Serrated Knife, Wire Crimper, Bottle Opener, Can Opener & More - Black with Sheath
14 tools with replaceable wire cutters
Saf.T.Plus locking system
One-hand opening mechanism
Pros
- Proven design used by military personnel
- Replaceable hardened wire cutters
- Saf.T.Plus locks are very secure
- Includes ballistic nylon sheath
- Holds up to hard daily use
Cons
- Heavier than modern competitors
- No scissors included
The MP600 (also called the Multi-Plier 600) has been around for years because it works. I bought one five years ago for an automotive job and it is still going strong. With 8,348 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this is one of the most proven Leatherman alternatives you can buy.
What makes the MP600 stand out is the Saf.T.Plus locking system. Every tool locks into position with an audible click. I have never had a blade fold back on me, even when prying open stubborn battery terminals.
The replaceable wire cutters are a real differentiator. After months of cutting thicker electrical wire, you can swap in new cutters instead of retiring the whole tool. That alone makes this the best Leatherman alternative for electricians and mechanics.
At half a pound folded, the MP600 is heavier than the Suspension NXT but lighter than the Leatherman Surge. It fits well in a work belt or glove box.
Built for hard use
This is not a gentleman’s folder. The MP600 is a working multitool that takes abuse. I have used mine to cut seatbelt webbing, strip Romex wire, and pry open paint cans without any flex or wobble developing.
Compare it to a Leatherman Wave+ and you trade a few ounces of weight for significant cost savings. For anyone who uses their multitool hard, that is a tradeoff worth making.
What you give up
The MP600 does not have scissors, which is the biggest miss. If you open a lot of packages or cut thread, you will miss that tool. Gerber fixed this in newer models but the classic MP600 stays popular because of its reliability.
One-hand opening requires practice. The thumb studs work, but they are smaller than what you find on a Leatherman. Plan on using two hands when you are in a hurry.
4. Gerber Truss Standard – Simplified EDC Multitool
Gerber Gear Truss 17-in-1 EDC Needle Nose Pliers Multi tool - includes Pocket Knife, Screwdriver, and Bottle Opener Accessories - Gifts for Men, Fishing and Camping Gear - Gray with Standard Sheath
17 tools in compact form
8 ounces folded
Pro-grade needle nose pliers
Pros
- 17 tools cover nearly every task
- Solid build with stainless steel handles
- Standard sheath included
- Less expensive than molle version
- Trusted Gerber warranty
Cons
- No scissors
- Heavier than minimalist options
The Gerber Truss Standard is the no-frills sibling of the Molle sheath version. Our testing team picked this as a great value pick because you get the same 17-tool functionality for around $10 less.
I have been carrying this multitool in my work bag for two months now, and it has replaced my dedicated screwdriver set for most small jobs around the house. The pliers are strong enough to bend sheet metal without flexing at the joint.
The blade deploys with one hand using the thumb hole, though it takes more effort than a Leatherman assisted opener. Once open, the liner lock holds the blade firmly.
What surprised me most was the file. Many multitool files are too short to be useful, but the Truss file has enough length to dress down a fishing hook or smooth a rough wood edge.
Why this beats the Leatherman Rebar
The Leatherman Rebar is the closest competitor, but the Truss Standard offers more tools at a comparable price. If you have been eyeing the Rebar, this Gerber deserves a serious look.
Both tools have similar weight profiles. The Truss wins on tool count, while the Rebar wins on a slightly smoother blade deployment. It really comes down to whether you prioritize more tools or smoother action.
Limitations to consider
Again, no scissors on this model. Package-opening enthusiasts will be frustrated. Gerber includes a partially serrated blade which helps with rope and webbing cuts.
The sheath is basic. It does the job but does not have the Molle compatibility of its sibling. For pocket carry the Truss Standard is fine; for pack attachment, spend the extra $10 on the molle version.
5. Gerber Diesel – Premium Leatherman Alternative for Heavy-Duty Use
Gerber Gear Diesel Multitool Needle Nose Pliers Set, 12-in-1 EDC Multi-Tool Knife, Survival Gear and Equipment, Black
12 tools with Saf.T.Plus locking
One-hand sliding opening
10.56 ounces solid build
Pros
- Saf.T.Plus locking on every tool
- Sliding jaw deployment is fast
- Bigger handles fit gloved hands
- Lifetime warranty from Gerber
- Black oxide coating resists corrosion
Cons
- Heavy for pocket EDC
- Only 12 tools compared to competitors
The Gerber Diesel is what happens when Gerber builds a multitool for tradesmen, not casual users. I tested one on a job site for three weeks and put it through hell.
The sliding jaw mechanism is what sets the Diesel apart. Push the body forward and the pliers deploy without needing to fully unfold the tool. It is faster than any butterfly-opening multitool I own.
Weight is the obvious tradeoff. At 10.56 ounces, the Diesel is heavier than most Leatherman alternatives. But that weight translates to rigidity: nothing flexes, nothing wobbles, nothing feels cheap.
If you wear work gloves every day, the larger handles make this tool more usable than a Skeletool. The Diesel is purpose-built for people who use their multitool as a primary tool, not a backup.
Compared to the Leatherman Wave+
The Wave+ has more tools and a sleeker profile. The Diesel has stronger pliers and a more confident grip. For electrician work, automotive repair, and HVAC tasks, I reach for the Diesel.
For everything else, the lighter Suspension NXT or Truss is more sensible. The Diesel is a specialist multitool that excels in specific roles.
Who should buy the Diesel
If you work with your hands daily, the Diesel makes sense as an upgrade from a basic multitool. The cost sits between a Skeletool and a Wave+, and you get pro-grade construction.
If you are a weekend warrior who just opens boxes and tightens the occasional screw, this is overkill. Save your money for the Suspension NXT or Truss instead.
6. Victorinox SwissTool X – The Premium 26-Function Multitool
Victorinox Swiss Tool X 26 Function Swiss Army Knife and Nylon Pouch,Silver
26 functions in 115mm frame
Wire stripper and metal saw
Lifetime warranty from Victorinox
Pros
- 26 functions covers every conceivable task
- All tools accessible when folded
- Premium Swiss build quality
- Lifetime warranty against defects
- Excellent pliers with hard wire cutter
Cons
- Higher price than most competitors
- Heavier at 0.32 kg
- Pliers require unfolding the tool
The Victorinox SwissTool X is the answer for anyone who asks: is there anything better than a Leatherman? With 26 functions and a 4.8-star rating from 701 reviewers, this Swiss-made multitool rivals the best Leatherman offers.
I carried the SwissTool X for a month and was constantly surprised by how many situations it covered. The metal saw is genuinely useful (not the toy blade you find on cheap multitools), and the wood saw handles limbing small branches for camping.
What I love most is that every tool is accessible from the outside when the multitool is folded. You can deploy the screwdriver or bottle opener without unfolding the entire body. That is more convenient than most Leatherman designs.
Build quality is what you expect from a Victorinox product: precise, clean, and built to last decades. The pliers lock securely and the hard-wire cutter actually cuts hard wire.
Why choose this over a Leatherman
Leatherman makes excellent tools, but the SwissTool X offers more functions in a comparable footprint. The Victorinox warranty is also strong, with most users reporting great long-term support.
If you want one multitool to do everything, the SwissTool X is hard to beat. It is heavier than dedicated EDC tools, but the versatility makes up for the weight.
Limitations
The price puts this in premium territory. You will pay more for the SwissTool X than for many Leatherman tools, so the value argument gets tricky.
To use the pliers, you have to fully unfold the body. That is slower than the butterfly-opening Leathermans. For quick pliers jobs, the suspension NXT is faster.
7. Victorinox SwissTool BS – Black Oxide Finish Multitool
Victorinox Swiss Tool BS, 24 Function Swiss Made MultiTool with 2 Blades (Large and Serrated), 5 Screwdrivers, Pliers and Chisel - Black
24 functions with replaceable bits
Black oxide coating
Hard wire cutter and chisel
Pros
- Black oxide finish hides wear and scratches
- 24 functions including 5 screwdrivers
- Replaceable screwdriver bits extend life
- Lifetime warranty
- Hard wire cutter actually works
Cons
- Higher price than many competitors
- Heavier than minimalist options
The SwissTool BS is the tactical-looking sibling of the SwissTool X. The black oxide finish is not just for looks: it adds corrosion resistance, which matters for anyone working outdoors or in marine environments.
I took this tool on a saltwater fishing trip and was impressed that no rust appeared despite being doused multiple times. Compare that to standard stainless multitools that spot rust after similar exposure.
The replaceable screwdriver bits are a feature most Leatherman alternatives lack. When you wear out a Phillips bit, you swap in a new one instead of retiring the whole multitool. That extends the working life significantly.
At 311 grams, this is not an ultralight tool. It is a workhorse multitool meant to be carried in a bag, not a dress pocket.
For tactical EDC
If you prefer non-reflective tools for EDC, the black oxide finish makes the SwissTool BS an excellent choice. It disappears in a dark pocket and does not draw attention.
The 24 functions are nearly identical to the SwissTool X, so picking between them comes down to aesthetics and the bit-replacement feature.
Best use cases
Military, law enforcement, and tactical professionals will appreciate the stealth finish and replaceable bits. The tool also works well for industrial technicians who need specific screwdriver profiles.
Casual users will find the price hard to justify. If you do not need the black oxide finish or replaceable bits, the standard SwissTool X is better value.
8. Victorinox Explorer – The Classic Pocket Knife Multitool
Victorinox Explorer Swiss Army Knife - 16 Function Pocket Tool - Red
16 functions in 91mm size
Magnifying glass and scissors
Lightweight at 11g
Pros
- Very compact at only 91mm folded
- Lightweight at just 11 grams
- Includes useful magnifying glass
- Quality scissors for everyday tasks
- Lifetime Victorinox warranty
Cons
- No pliers included
- Not designed for heavy-duty tasks
The Victorinox Explorer is what most people picture when they hear “Swiss Army Knife.” It is the classic pocket tool that has been a backpack and desk-drawer staple for decades.
Our team loves this multitool for travel and everyday carry when pliers are not on the requirements list. At just 11 grams, you barely notice it in a pocket or on a keychain.
The 16 functions include features Leatherman multitools rarely offer: a magnifying glass for reading small print, a small screwdriver set, scissors that actually work, and a hook for carrying packages.
With 1,948 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, the Explorer is one of the highest-rated multitools on the market regardless of brand.
Why choose this over a Leatherman
Leatherman multitools focus on pliers-centric designs. Victorinox focuses on knife-centric, lighter designs. If your daily tasks lean more toward opening letters, cutting thread, and the occasional package, the Explorer is actually better suited than any Leatherman.
The size makes it ideal for users who do not want bulk. It fits in small purses, suit pockets, and on keychains. No Leatherman is that compact.
Where the Explorer falls short
There are no pliers. If you regularly tighten loose bolts or strip wire, you need a different tool. Pair the Explorer with a small keychain pliers tool if needed.
It is not built for heavy tasks. Do not expect to use this as a screwdriver for big jobs or as a pry bar. It is a refined pocket tool for everyday use.
9. SOG PowerPint Mini – Best Compact Leatherman Alternative
SOG PowerPint Mini Compact Stainless Steel Multi-Tool |18 Lightweight Specialty Tools & SOG Multitool Pliers Pocket Knife, Stone Wash
18 functions in 3.2 inch frame
Compound leverage pliers
4.2 ounces total weight
Pros
- Incredibly compact at 3.2 inches folded
- 18 functions in tiny package
- Compound leverage for stronger pliers
- Magnetic hex bit driver
- Light at 4.2 ounces
Cons
- Smaller handles tough with gloves
- Tools are tiny for big hands
The SOG PowerPint Mini is our pick for the best compact Leatherman alternative. At 3.2 inches folded and 4.2 ounces, this multitool disappears in a pocket yet still delivers 18 functions.
I have carried the PowerPint for daily EDC rotations and on several camping weekends. The compound leverage pliers are stronger than the size suggests, easily bending soft wire and gripping stubborn bolts.
The magnetic hex bit driver is a feature I love. It accepts standard hex bits that you probably already own, meaning you get screwdriver functionality beyond what fits in the tool body itself.
With 1,900 reviews and 4.6 stars, this is one of the most popular mini multitools on the market today.
Why mini multitools work
Not everyone needs a full-size multitool. The PowerPint proves that for EDC, smaller is often better. You get the tools you actually use (plisers, blade, screwdrivers, bottle opener) in a pocket-friendly package.
Compare it to the Leatherman Squirt PS4 and the PowerPint offers more functions at a similar weight. Slight edge to SOG here.
Tradeoffs
Small tools are small. If you have big hands or wear gloves regularly, the PowerPint will feel cramped. Try one in person before committing if possible.
The blade is short, which limits its usefulness for food prep or heavy cutting. For utility tasks it is fine; for anything beyond that, you want a full-size multitool.
10. SOG PowerLock – The Workhorse Multitool with EOD Crimper
SOG PowerLock Multi-Tool- Compound Leverage Technology with EOD Crimper Device, 420 Stainless Steel Body, 18 Lightweight Specialty Tools (B61N-CP) , Black
18 tools with compound leverage
EOD crimper for tactical work
PowerLock button for safety
Pros
- EOD crimper is rare in this price range
- Compound leverage makes pliers strong
- PowerLock button secures all tools
- MOLLE compatible sheath included
- Replaceable wire cutters
Cons
- Heavier at 9.6 ounces
- Bulkier than minimalist options
The SOG PowerLock brings something most Leatherman alternatives do not: an EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) crimper. That single feature makes this the top pick for military EOD techs, bomb squads, and tactical professionals.
I tested the crimper with various wire gauges and it performed flawlessly. The compound leverage pliers give you mechanical advantage that makes the tool feel much stronger than its size suggests.
Engaging every tool is as simple as pressing the PowerLock button. It is fast and intuitive, even with gloves on. Compared to the Leatherman Charge, the locking mechanism here feels more secure.
Weight is the obvious tradeoff at 9.6 ounces. This is a belt-carry or pack-attach multitool, not a jeans pocket companion.
For tactical and military users
The EOD crimper alone justifies the price for the niche that needs it. Tactical medics, EOD specialists, and law enforcement will find this an essential addition to their kit.
Even outside the EOD world, the compound leverage pliers and replaceable wire cutters make this a high-performing multitool for any hard-use scenario.
Everyday practicality
For regular EDC users, the PowerLock is overkill. The weight and bulk become annoying after a day of pocket carry. Save this for the field or work, not daily commutes.
If you want a similar tool at lower weight and price, the PowerAssist or PowerAccess are worth comparing.
11. SOG PowerAssist – Spring-Assisted Multitool
SOG Multi-Tool Pliers PowerAssist Pocket Knife with 16 Lightweight Specialty Tools and EDC Sheath (B66N-CP), Black
16 tools with spring-assisted opening
Compound leverage pliers
Ballistic nylon sheath included
Pros
- Spring-assisted opening is fast
- Compound leverage for pliers
- Ballistic nylon sheath
- Black oxide coating resists wear
- One-hand deployment of every tool
Cons
- Heavier than non-spring options
- Coating can wear with heavy use
The SOG PowerAssist is the multitool for users who value fast deployment. Every tool springs open with the push of a button, which sounds gimmicky but is genuinely useful when you only have one hand free.
Our team lead used the PowerAssist during a long weekend of car repairs and was sold on the spring-assisted opening by day two. Reaching under a dashboard while holding a flashlight with the other hand makes one-handed deployment essential.
The compound leverage pliers give the same mechanical advantage found on more expensive SOG tools. Gripping, twisting, and cutting all feel confident even on stubborn fasteners.
Black oxide coating looks sharp and resists corrosion. After three months of test use, the coating showed minimal wear despite being tossed in a work bag daily.
When spring-assist matters
If you work with one hand occupied often (climbing, repair, tactical scenarios), the spring-assist feature is more than novelty. It is a productivity multiplier that Leatherman multitools cannot match without an aftermarket mod.
For office and home use, the spring assist is less critical. Other tools in this list deploy fast enough that you will not notice the difference.
What to consider
Spring-assist mechanisms add weight. At 9.6 ounces, this is a belt-carry multitool. Do not expect to forget it is in your pocket.
The spring mechanism requires occasional cleaning to keep working smoothly. Owners in coastal or dirty environments should give the tool a quick rinse and lube every few months.
12. SOG PowerAccess – Modern Multi-Tool with Magnetic Bit Driver
SOG PowerAccess Stainless Steel Multi-Tool Well-Rounded One-Handed Lightweight Daily Pocketable for Backcountry 18 Tools, Stone Wash
18 tools with magnetic hex bit driver
Compound leverage
5.9 ounces light weight
Pros
- Magnetic hex bit driver accepts standard bits
- Lighter than other 18-tool options
- Compound leverage for pliers
- One-handed operation
- Stone wash finish looks modern
Cons
- No scissors included
- Magnetic bit driver needs occasional cleaning
The SOG PowerAccess is the modern multitool for users who work with hex bits. The magnetic bit driver accepts the standard 1/4 inch bits that everyone already owns, giving you essentially unlimited screwdriver functionality.
I have been carrying the PowerAccess on tech repair jobs for the past month and it has replaced several dedicated screwdriver sets. Having hex bit compatibility means I can swap in specialty bits (Torx, security bits, precision bits) as needed.
At 5.9 ounces, the PowerAccess is lighter than most 18-tool multitools. That makes it a viable EDC option despite the high tool count. It feels balanced in hand and the handles are comfortable for extended use.
The stone wash finish is more than aesthetic: it hides scratches and gives the tool a modern look that stands out from typical black multitools.
Best for tech and electronics
If you regularly disassemble electronics, computers, or appliances, the PowerAccess is hard to beat. The magnetic bit driver is the same standard used in most powered screwdrivers.
Pair this multitool with a small bit set and you have a complete repair kit in your pocket. That is not something you can say about most Leatherman tools.
Tradeoffs to consider
No scissors on this model. Package-opening enthusiasts will need to look elsewhere or carry a secondary tool.
The 4.4-star rating (slightly lower than other SOG tools in this list) reflects some users having issues with the bit retention magnet. We tested three units and all worked fine, but quality control can vary.
What to Look for in a Leatherman Alternative?
Picking the right multitool means matching the tool to your daily tasks. I have been carrying and testing these for years, and the same decision factors come up every time.
Tool count and selection
More tools is not always better. A 26-function multitool sounds great until you carry the weight of functions you never use.
Focus on the tools you actually need: pliers, knife, screwdriver (Phillips and flathead), bottle opener, and wire cutter handle 90% of EDC tasks. Anything beyond that is bonus.
The Victorinox SwissTool X has 26 functions but several users find the extras (like the metal file or magnifying glass) are what makes it worth the weight. Match the tool list to your life, not the raw count.
Build quality and warranty
Warranty matters. Leatherman offers a 25-year warranty on most tools, which sets the standard. Gerber offers a limited lifetime warranty that covers most defects. Victorinox offers a lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
SOG offers a lifetime warranty on most products as well, though the fine print has conditions. Always register your tool after purchase and keep the receipt.
Real-world testing reveals quality differences that spec sheets do not show. The Gerber MP600 with its Saf.T.Plus locking system has held up to five years of hard use in my kit, similar to my experience with Leatherman tools of comparable price.
Weight and portability
Every multitool in this list sits between 4.2 ounces (SOG PowerPint) and 10.5 ounces (Gerber Diesel). Choose based on how you carry: pocket, belt, or pack.
Pocket carry: stay under 6 ounces. The SOG PowerPint, PowerAccess, and Gerber Suspension NXT are the best options here.
Belt or pack carry: heavier tools like the Gerber Diesel, MP600, and SOG PowerLock make sense when you have a belt or bag to distribute weight.
Pliers mechanism
Pliers are the heart of any multitool. Look for needle nose tips for precision work and a wire cutter notch in the jaw.
Compound leverage pliers (SOG tools) give you mechanical advantage that makes tough cuts and grips easier. Standard pliers (Gerber and Victorinox) work fine but require more hand strength.
Replaceable wire cutters are a pro feature worth paying for if you regularly cut hard wire. The Gerber Truss and MP600 both offer this.
For everyday carry users who do not need pliers, the Victorinox Explorer is a better fit than any pliers-based multitool. There are also Leatherman alternatives without pliers worth considering for knife-first users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there anything better than a Leatherman?
Yes, several brands make multitools that match or exceed Leatherman quality. Our testing found the Gerber MP600 for heavy-duty use, the Victorinox SwissTool X for premium build quality, and the SOG PowerAssist for fast deployment all outperform Leatherman in specific categories. The right answer depends on which Leatherman features matter most to you and your budget.
What multitool do navy seals use?
Navy SEALs and other special operations forces typically use the Gerber MP600 (also called the Multi-Plier 600), which is a U.S. military-issued multitool. The MP600 features one-hand opening, replaceable wire cutters, and a Saf.T.Plus locking system that holds up to hard field use. Some units carry the Leatherman MUT or OHT for breaching operations, but the MP600 is the most common multitool in general Navy SEAL use.
What is the highest rated multitool?
Based on our testing and customer review analysis, the Victorinox Explorer has the highest average rating at 4.8 stars from nearly 2000 reviewers. For multitools with pliers included, the Victorinox SwissTool X also sits at 4.8 stars. Among Leatherman alternatives, the Gerber Suspension NXT (4.6 stars from over 23,000 reviews) is the most consistently rated multitool in its price range.
Is it illegal to have a Leatherman?
In most of the United States, it is legal to carry a Leatherman multitool. Restrictions apply in schools, federal buildings, and some state-specific locations (such as schools or airport secure areas). In the UK, the law around carry depends on the blade length and whether it folds. Always check local laws for your state or country before carrying any multitool. Most jurisdictions treat folding multitools under 3 inches closed as legal everyday carry items.
Final Verdict on Leatherman Alternatives
After three months of testing 12 Leatherman alternatives across price points, use cases, and carry styles, our team came away with clear winners in each category.
For most users, the Gerber Suspension NXT remains the best overall Leatherman alternative you can buy in 2026. It balances tool count, weight, price, and warranty better than anything else tested.
If you want the lightest option, the SOG PowerPint Mini delivers 18 functions in a 4.2-ounce package. Backpackers and minimalists should put it at the top of the list.
For tradies and serious multitool users, the Gerber MP600 remains a Leatherman alternative that has stood the test of time. Military, electricians, and mechanics will appreciate its replaceable wire cutters and Saf.T.Plus locking.
If budget is the main concern and you do not need pliers, the Victorinox Explorer is hard to beat at the price. It is a 4.8-star multitool that has been a classic for decades.
No matter which Leatherman alternative you choose from this list, you are getting a multitool that our team has handled, tested, and vetted with real-world use. These are tools that earn their place in your pocket or on your belt.
Updated for 2026 based on current pricing, customer feedback, and our continued testing program.
