Best Leatherman for Backpacking [ 2025 Reviews & Guide ]

Backpacking is the best way of knowing what you need most in your life and what’s not. It could be an adventurous trip to any wild place under the open sky. So, the less, the better. 

No matter what else you take, multi-tool is a great necessity for any backpacker. When it comes to multi-tool, Leatherman comes as the first choice of backpackers. Hence, it is always worthwhile to invest in the best Leatherman for backpacking.

It comes handy in an emergency to survive in the wild. Also, such tools can make a difference between life and death sometimes. From cutting a small chunk of wood to making foods, you need a Leatherman multi-tool far and wide.

With one Leatherman in hand, you don't have to carry pliers, saw, screwdriver, knives, etc. Besides, it is better to take one great tool rather than so many specific tools.

Don't you feel the need for a Leatherman for your next trip?

Taking this into account, we’ve compiled a list of best Leatherman for camping, EDC, hiking, etc. We’ve also added the necessary information, including a detailed buying guide to help you make a well-thought decision!

Take a look!

Best Leatherman for Tool Backpacking: Our Top 10 Picks

Picking the best one for your upcoming adventure trip can be challenging. Not to worry. Here we come with the best Leatherman reviews. We've included a variety of Leatherman which is best multi tool for backpacking so you can find the right one for your needs. Here goes…

1. LEATHERMAN Surge Heavy Duty Multitool - Best for Hiking

The first on the list, Leatherman Surge, is absolutely a giant and a real powerhouse of multi-tool. The manufacturer brings it for big guys looking for a solid deal with a ton of tools. In fact, it is one of their two largest multi-tools.

This heavy-duty workhorse is crafted with a heavy-duty material. It is built for tough jobs andsteady hands. The main attraction of the tool is its largest pliers. Then it has the most extended blades for which it is famous.

Besides, it features easy to use locks to open and lock all the tools with more confidence. You can open and use all the tools with one hand.Besides, its heavy-duty yet portable size and lanyard ring makes the design highly portable.

Lastly, the Surge comes with a premium leather sheath to keep in within hand reach. The functions and build-quality make it one of the best Leatherman for camping, backpacking, trailing, etc.

What Tools Are Included?

• Pliers( Regular and Needlenose)
• Wirecutter(Regular, Stranded,Hard-wire)
• Wire strippers
• Electrical crimper
• Knife(420HC, 420HC serrated)
• Spring-action scissors
• Saw
• 8-inch ruler
• Awl with thread loop
• Bottle and can opener
• File( wood/metal, diamond-coated)
• Blade exchanger
• Screwdrivers( small, large, large bit)

2. LEATHERMAN Signal Camping Multitool - Top Rated for Camping

Another great deal from Leatherman for any adventure. The Leatherman Signal multi-tool is trendy, functional, and heavy-duty edition.

This 4.5” compact adventure buddy comes with camping-ready features. All the tools, including the handle, is crafted with heavy-duty stainless steel. Besides, it is entirely rust and corrosion-resistant.

The model includes almost 19 tools integrated into one handle. It offers one-hand access to all the tools, including the ones that are inside. The tool features an excellent locking mechanism for the safe use of the tools.

What we liked most is its unique carabiner and a pocket clip. You can attach the tool on your backpack or in the pocket. This unique carabiner makes it one of the best Leatherman for EDC and backpacking.

In addition to this, the Leatherman Signal comes in multiple colors for picky backpackers. All the tools are highly useful and come handy on a campsite or in any emergency.

What Tools Are Included?

• Pliers(Needlenose and Regular)
• Wire cutters( Regular and Hardwire)
• Wire stripper
• Hammer
• Awl with thread loop
• Bottle and can opener
• 420HC combination knife
• 14” bit driver
• Hex wrench
• Saw
• Carabiner
• 3/16” hex wrench
• Safety whistle
• Ferrocerium rod
• Diamond sharpener

3. Leatherman 61030101 Pocket Survival Tool

The Leatherman 61030101 Pocket Survival Tool is a compact powerhouse designed for those who demand reliability and versatility. This multi-tool is packed with essential tools, all housed in a sleek, durable stainless steel frame. 

From the sturdy pliers to the sharp blades, every component is crafted to withstand the toughest conditions. It is helpful if you are a hiker, camper, or urban adventurer; it is your go-to companion. 

Its compact size makes it easy to carry in your pocket or backpack, while its top-class construction ensures it's always ready when you need it. 

With its intuitive design and effortless operation, the Leatherman 61030101 is more than just a tool; it symbolizes preparedness and adventure.

What Tools Are Included?

• Needle-nose Pliers: For precise gripping and bending tasks.
• Regular Pliers: For general-purpose gripping and cutting.
• Wire Cutters: For cutting through wire and cable.
• 420HC Knife Blade: For slicing, cutting, and other general-purpose tasks.
• Saw: For cutting through wood and other materials.
• Bottle Opener: For opening bottles and cans.

4. LEATHERMAN FREE K4 EDC Pocket Knife

For folks who are looking for a knife-based multi-tool, Leatherman brings FREE K4 pocket knife for you. This multipurpose knife is suitable for a wide range of tasks.

All the tools are crafted with stainless steel for added durability. It won’t rust with proper handling. Then it includes an ergonomic plastic handle that makes you feel at home in your palm.

This sleek tool includes nine functional tools for a variety of tasks. These tools allow pop-open with a single push of your thumb. You don’t have to use your fingernails at all. Also, the locking mechanism lets you cut anything confidently.

Different from other pocket knives, it comes with a lanyard hole to clip it within reach. This EDC pocket knife can be a good option as a gift. The price is also reasonable.

What Tools Are Included?

• 420HC knife
• Spring-action scissors
• Pry tool
• Package opener
• Awl
• Bottle opener
• Screwdrivers (extra small, medium and Phillips)

5. LEATHERMAN Super Tool 300 Multi-tool

Similar to Surge, Leatherman Super Tool 300 comes with heavy-duty tools for adventure needs. Not just that, it is also a handy tool for working men and women.

Super tool 300 is packed with the most reliable pliers. Also, its slop-top design makes it suitable to use in tight spaces. The tool is all stainless steel made, and its ergonomic design makes it easy on the hand.

Unlike others, it features large cutouts to allow you to hold components even with gloves on. Its secure locking mechanism keeps the tools securely in place. The tool is highly portable even after heavy-duty built.

It also comes with a lanyard ring for carrying it with a backpack or with the belt loop. Besides, the included leather sheath allows safe carry. Overall, it is one of the functional Leatherman tools for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.

What Tools Are Included?

• Knives (420HC and 420HC serrated)
• Pliers( Needlenose and regular)
• Screwdrivers( small, medium, large, and Phillips)
• Wire cutters( Regular, stranded-wire, and hard-wire)
• Electrical crimper
• Wire stripper
• Saw

6. LEATHERMAN Skeletool KBX Pocket Knife

The Leatherman Skeletool pocket knife is the simplest yet a handy member in the Skeletool family. It’s a dedicated knife cum bottle opener. This pocket knife is great for everyday use.

What we liked most is its attractive moss green color on the handle. Besides, it’s a stainless steel made tool that is corrosion resistant. This versatile knife is half-serrated but quite sharp.

The knife is foldable and convertible into a small size. When the knife is opened, you can cut anything with confidence. You need to press to unlock the knife. Then it has a unique bottle opener, which works as a pocket clip as well.

You can easily clip the tool in your pocket or backpack. It also has a lanyard hole for clipping. Lastly, it weighs only 1.3 ounces, which make it perfect for carrying anywhere.

What Tools Are Included?

• Half serrated knife
• Bottle opener

7. LEATHERMAN Skeletool Lightweight Multitool

One more addition from Skeletool family, Leatherman skeletool multi-tool, is excellent for backpacking. It's a full-sized yet lightweight model. This one has added functions to the previous Skeletool.

This one comes with all stainless steel body which offers added durability. Its ergonomic design ensures comfortable handling. The Skeletool model includes seven well-built tools.

Moreover, it features a unique extra bit stored right in the handle. This tool also offers one and operation for use in necessity. You can quickly get access to all the tools, including the integrated ones.

Unlike most Leatherman, it includes a carabiner cum bottle opener. You can keep a bunch of keys organized. Lastly, the lanyard hole makes it easier to clip on the tool on the backpack and belt strap.

What Tools Are Included?

• Pliers (Needlenose and regular)
• Wirecutter (Regular and Hard-wire)
• 420HC combo knife
• Carabiner
• Bottle opener
• Large bit driver
• Handle bit storage

8. Leatherman Charge Plus Forest Camo Multi-Tool

The Leatherman Charge Plus forest camo is indeed a blessing for campers and outdoor enthusiasts. With almost 19 tools into a compact size, it can suit all your backpacking needs.

This Nylon Etui black multi-tool gives an adventurous feel with its forest camouflage design. In fact, it can make your everyday needs exciting. The tool mainly includes narrow-tip pliers for use in hard to reach areas.

The handle where all the tools are integrated has a pixelized forest camo pattern. It provides a solid grip on hand, and you can use it for long without any fatigue. Then, like other Leatherman tools, it comes with an excellent locking mechanism for safe handling.

All the tools are sharp and made with stainless steel. It makes the tool durable and fit for all.Each tool on this forest camo multi-tool is adventure worthy.

What Tools Are Included?

• Pliers (Needlenose and regular)
• Wire cutters( Premium replaceable and Premium replaceable hard)
• Electrical crimper
• Wire stripper
• Knife(154CM and 420HC serrated)
• Saw
• Spring-action scissors
• Cutting hook
• 8-inch ruler
• Can and bottle opener
• Files (wood/metal and diamond-coated)
• Bit drivers( small and large)
• Screwdrivers- medium

Much like Skeletool multi-tool, the Leatherman Skeletool RX multi-tool is a handy tool for any EMT. It responds quickly and safely in many emergencies. Even with so many functional features, the tool comes at an affordable price.

The tool features a stainless steel body along with ergonomic design. It’s a full-sized tool that weighs less than many heavy-duty multi-tool. The infrastructure of this tool similar to the famous Surge but with few fewer functions.

Like other Leatherman tools, it also allows for one-hand operation. You can open and close the tools quickly. Also, its locking blade allows to safe cuts. Better than all, it comes with a bottle opener along with a carabiner for everyday use.

Also, you can hang the tool with your backpack or with a belt loop through a large lanyard. One more attraction of this multi-tool is its serrated blade, which works great. All the tools come handy when you need the most.

What Tools Are Included?

• Pliers (Regular and Needlenose)
• Wire cutters (Hard-wire and wire)
• 154CM serrated knife blade
• Carabiner
• Bottle opener
• Large bit driver

10. LEATHERMAN Charge plus Multi-Tool

The last one, Leatherman Charge plus is similar to forest camobut with a woodland camouflage design. The design, functions, and build-quality make the design anadventure-worthy.

Get your hand around the supreme ergonomic grip of the Leatherman Charge Plus multi-tool. The woodland camouflage design in handle makes the tool fit for the heavy-duty task.

Also, the stainless steel body adds better endurance for rough jobs.No matter whether you are on the campsite or at home, it is well-equipped for all tasks. Like other Leatherman, it allows one-hand operation.

Charge Plus also comes with a well-made four-pocket nylon sheath to attach it with the belt. You can keep small gears while on the go. Also, you can hang it on the backpack through a removable pocket clip and lanyard ring.

Whereas other multi-tools are challenging to handle, this compact tool is incredibly small. Leatherman Chare Plus is truly an all-rounder and will last for a more extended period.

What Tools are Included?

• Pliers (Regular and Needlenose)
• Wire cutters (Hard-wire and interchangeable)
• Knife( 154CM and 420HC serrated with Guthook)
• Saw
• Wire stripper
• Spring-action scissors
• File (Wood/metal and diamond-coated)
• Bit driver( small and large)
• Medium screwdriver
• 8-inch ruler
• Can and bottle opener
• 12-bits

FAQs

1. Why should I buy a Leatherman Multi-tool?

Because these tools follow Tim Leatherman's standards for precision, quality, durability, and attention to detail. All these sets Leatherman tools apart from others.

2. Can I bring a Leatherman tool on a plane?

No, you cannot pass the security checkpoints with Leatherman tools except a few that follow TSA specifications. Earlier, we discussed a few models of Leatherman that are allowed to take on a plane. One among them is Style PS, but ultimately it depends on the individual TSA agent.

3. Can I installed a different blade on any Leatherman Tool?

Not really. Each model comes with certain unique features. You can buy a Leatherman with a dedicated knife but cannot install a new one.

4. What basic function should a survival Leatherman have?

A Leatherman should at least have knives, pliers, scissors, screwdrivers, firelighters, and wire cutters for survival needs. But, one can also survive only with a Leatherman that has knives and pliers. 
Carry Leatherman with a Bit Kit and you will get some extra benefits. 

5. Do all Leatherman have knives?

No. Few dedicated keychain holders do not have knives. Though Leatherman is trying to include a knife in their recent designs in user’s demand.

6. Can I use Leatherman tools for mechanical tasks?

Yes, but very few models of Leatherman allows heavy-duty tasks. It is better to use large tools for mechanical jobs. Generally, multi-tools are perfect for lightweight, survival needs.

7. Does all Leatherman comes with locking mechanism?

Not at all. The Leatherman multi-tools from Micra and Juice series are non-locking. That’s because none of these two models from these series comes with a blade.All the tools in these series include essential tools except knife or blades. So, safety is not a concern here.

Final Thoughts

We are almost at the end of our Leatherman reviews. Are you planning for a backpacking trip within days? Make sure you are out with any of our suggested best Leatherman for backpacking.

All the listed Leatherman includes what it takes to be pertinent to your needs. On top of that, all are well built and lightweight to make you adventure a cakewalk. So, give yourself a chance to enjoy the outdoors with more confidence.

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