Best Multitool 2019 – Buyer’s Guide

October 1, 2018

What is the best multitool for 2019? Whether it’s for tasks around the house, camping, backpacking, or your profession, having the right multi tool for the job is essential. Multitools allow you to carry up to 20 tools discretely and have them all on hand at a moment’s notice.

In this review, we’ll take a look at some of the best multitools for 2019 and highlight new multi tools just released.  With the help of our cost per tool analysis, we can compare the features of each multitool and let you know if you’re getting a good deal or not. We’ve also narrowed our favorites into the top 10 best multitools of 2019. Lets take a look.

Table of Contents

	New Multitools for 2019
	Best Multitool 2019
	Cheap Multitools 2019
	Best Multitool for Backpacking
	Leatherman Multitools vs. Gerber Multitools
	Best Multitool for Military
	The Bottom Line

 

 

New Multitools for 2019

It’s a new year and that means several of the top multitool brands like Gerber and Leatherman will be releasing new lineups. What can you expect to see in these new multitools and are they worth picking up over the tried and true models that have been so popular over the years?

New Leatherman Multitools for 2019

Leatherman has introduced some new products for 2019 which focus on improving already successful tools and also incorporating innovative new ideas and features into their lineup. The first update is the complete revamp of the Leatherman Wave+ into their new Heritage lineup. It’s now constructed of a more durable stainless steel frame and they’ve even added wire cutters to the mix.

Other products launching include the Tread Tempo which is essentially a stainless steel watch that doubles as a multitool. The watch band hosts up to 10 different tools combining up to 40 different functions and makes for an even more convenient accessory item.

The last item of note to the new Leatherman 2019 lineup is the Raptor tool which is specifically designed for first responders. Some of the highlights include foldable medical shears, an oxygen tank wrench, strap/ring cutters, and a glass breaker. The Leatherman Raptor is a must have tool for first responders or those in the military.

 

New Gerber Multitools for 2019

Not to be outdone, Gerber has launched their new for 2019 lineup as well and it is just as impressive. Starting with the LineDrive Multi-tool, it’s designed to make fishing even easier. Dubbed a line management tool, it helps tie knots, clear eyelets, features a crimper, shears, and a hook threader. For serious fishermen, the Gerber LineDrive is a must have for 2019.

Gerber Line Drive

Another new multitool from Gerber in their popular butterfly model is the Truss multitool. Designed to provide all the popular tools without all the excess, the  Gerber Truss was built to be compact and lightweight while still providing 17 tools to get the job done. The Truss has every tool you need, none you don’t, and all at a price point that everyone can afford.

Gerber Truss

 

 

Best Multitools 2019 Reviews

Below is a list of our top picks for some of the best multitools of 2019. The Leatherman Super Tool 300 is our top pick due to its affordable price and history of durability. You’ll also want to take into consideration size constraints and weight when deciding on which multitool is best for you.  Multitools like the Gerber Dime are extreme compact and its reduced weight is perfect for backpacking or camping applications. It’s also our top pick for the best multitool for women.

Best Multitool 2019 Comparison List

 

1) Leatherman Super Tool 300 – Best Multitool 2019

Leatherman is synonymous with Multitools. It’s the first name that comes to mind when almost everyone thinks of the best multitools. So why stray away from what’s worked for so long? Well, we aren’t and the best multitool of 2019 goes to the Leatherman Super Tool 300.

The Leatherman Super Tool 300 features the following:

• Needlenose Pliers.
• Regular Pliers.
• 154cm Replaceable Wire Cutters.
• 154cm Replaceable Hard-wire Cutters.
• Stranded-wire Cutters.
• Electrical Crimper.
• Wire Stripper.
• 420HC Knife.
• 420HC Serrated Knife.
• Multi tool Saw.
• Awl with Thread Loop.
• Ruler (9 inches | 22 centimeters).
• Can Opener.
• Bottle Opener.
• Wood/Metal File.
• Phillips Screwdriver.
• Large Screwdriver.
• Medium Screwdriver.
• Small Screwdriver.

That makes 19 different tools that the Leatherman Super Tool 300 has available at any given moment. That’s pretty handy if you ask me. But many other multi-tools offer many of the same features for a cheaper price, why should you buy the Leatherman Super Tool 300?

The short answer is Leatherman quality and dependability. If you work with tools a lot or run a business working with your hands, you know how important it is to not only have the right tool for the job, but have a quality tool that you can depend on to get the job done right.

The Leatherman Super Tool 300 is made out of durable 420 stainless steel, so it’s not going to corrode or rust. It’s also not going to bend or break under heavy loads, like some of the cheaper multitools might. The Leatherman Super Tool 300 is that tool that you buy once and cry once. Not really though, since it’s under $100 at Amazon.com. That’s a great deal for maybe the last multitool you will ever need unless you lose it.

In our cost per tool analysis, the Super Tool 300 had one of the lowest cost per tool ratios of any multitool with over 17 tools.

 

2) Leatherman Wave Multitool

New and improved for 2019, the Leatherman Wave has been upgraded with replaceable wire cutters. The standard 18 tools are still there, but Leatherman addressed a common issue with wire cutters wearing down and not being able to be switched out. That is a thing of the past, as the wire cutters now disassemble to allow for sharp new blades to be installed.

Leatherman Wave Tools:

3) Gerber Diesel Multitool

Gerber continues to impress with quality products that look the part and the Gerber Diesel Multitool is no exception. With a name like Diesel, you expect tough and rugged looks, and the Diesel delivers.

It’s offered in both stainless steel and Diesel black. The non-reflective black version is a step up from the classic stainless steel look that has dominated the multitool market for so long. It really is an intimidating looking multitool.

The Gerber Diesel Multitool features the following:

• Needlenose pliers
• Wire cutter
• Partially-serrated knife blade
• Cross point screwdriver
• Small, medium, and large flat blade screwdrivers
• Can opener
• Bottle opener
• File
• Multi tool Saw
• Scissors

If you’re counting, that’s 12 tools total. It’s slightly less than the 19 that the Leatherman Super Tool 300 is equipped with, but it still has all the main tools you would need on a regular basis.

It weighs in at 8.5 ounces, which is a little over an ounce lighter than the Leatherman 300. It’s also cheaper and can be found at Amazon.com for less than $60. For its affordability, great looks, and functionality, the Gerber Diesel Multitool ranks 2nd on the Best Multitool 2019 review.

 

4) Leatherman Skeletool CX

The Leatherman Skeletool is slightly different than most multitools you’ve probably seen. It has a futuristic look in many ways. You can see that a lot of time went into designing this multitool to combine everything you need on a regular basis into a compact tool. This is the Best Looking Leatherman tool you can find.

The Leatherman Skeletool features the following:

• Needlenose Pliers
• Regular Pliers
• Hard-wire Cutters
• Wire Cutters
• 420HC Combo Knife
• Carabiner/Bottle Opener
• Large Bit Driver

If you were asked to pick the 7 tools you need the most, the Leatherman Skeletool would probably have them. Its lack of tools is made up for in its compact size and light weight of only 5 ounces. For casual use, the Leatherman Skeletool is the multitool to have and why it’s ranks high on the Best Multitool 2019 list.

 

5) Leatherman Charge TTI Multitool – Best Multitool for Military

The best multitools for military use require them to be dependable, efficient, and able to accomplish almost any task. The Leatherman Charge TTI Multitool meets all of our qualifications for a great military multitool. Its durable titanium frame houses 19 of the most popular tools. In fact, that was Leatherman’s main goal, to incorporate all the most useful tools into a compact frame with aesthetic appeal. We think they accomplished that task.

Leatherman Charge TTI Tools:

• Needlenose Pliers
• Regular Pliers
• Premium Replaceable Wire Cutters
• Premium Replaceable Hard-wire Cutters
• Electrical Crimper
• Wire Stripper
• S30V Knife
• 420HC Serrated Knif
• Saw
• Spring-action Scissor
• Cutting Hook
•  Ruler (8 in | 19 cm
•  Can Opener
•  Bottle Opener
•  Wood/Metal File
•  Diamond-coated File
•  Large Bit Driver
•  Small Bit Driver
• Medium Screwdriver

Not only does the Leatherman Charge TTI look good, but the ergonomic design is also well thought out. Each tool locks in place, can be used without opening the entire tool (almost functioning like a pocket knife), and can be used one handed. For military use, this multitool can accomplish almost any task, is constructed of durable titanium for dependability, and its ergonomic design is one of the most efficient multitools for 2019.

 

 

Cheap Multitools 2019

If you’re willing to do without some of the latest designs and features, cheap multitools still offer a way to carry around many tools without the high price tag. One such multitool we’ve been extremely impressed with is the Leatherman Micra Multitool. It’s our top pick for the best cheap multitool for 2019.

Leatherman – Micra, Keychain Size Multitool, Stainless Steel

Equipped with 10 different tools, the Leatherman Micra is designed for everyday use. It weighs in at 1.8 ounces, so you can carry it anywhere. It’s specifically design to be carried on a key chain and available at a moments notice.

The Leatherman Micra ranked third out of all other Leatherman Multitools in our cost per tool analysis. This makes it one of the best value multitools just behind the Leatherman Rev and Freestyle CS.

The LeatherMane Micra contains the following tools:

• Spring-action scissors
• knife
• flat/Phillips screwdriver
• medium screwdriver
• extra-small screwdriver
• bottle opener
• nail cleaner
• tweezers
• nail file
• ruler

There’s really nothing to dislike about the Leatherman Micra if you are after a cheap multitool that is easy to carry around, made by a quality manufacturer like Leatherman, and has 10 popular tools that will address most tasks. The Leatherman Micra can be found for less than $30 at Amazon.com.

 

 

Best Multitool for Backpacking

Backpacking often involves physically demanding treks into the wilderness, so packing light and only the essential gear is paramount. The best multipurpose tools for backpacking, hiking, and camping usually involve cramming the most tools into the smallest space. Our top pick for the most compact multitool is the Gerber Dime.

Gerber Dime – Ultralight Backpacking Multi tool

The Gerber Dime incorporates the popular butterfly design into an ultra-compact multitool that fits on your key chain. Weighing in at only 2.2 ounces, it’s perfect for long hikes where packing light is a must. Even though it’s light and compact, it still manages to house 12 useful tools.

As you can see, Gerber has managed to pack all the essential tools into this very small frame. And just to reiterate, this tool is really small, so make sure it will accomplish the tasks you need it to. For backpacking, it will work well for minor uses. If you desire something sturdier and plan to use it frequently, one of the full size options would be better, like the Geber Diesel or Leatherman Super Tool 300. Leatherman makes a similar smaller multitool called the Squirt that is another option for a lightweight tool.

Additionally, several multitools are now equipped with Ferrocerium Rod‘s which make starting camp fires extremely easy. Once such Multitool is the Leatherman Signal designed specifically for backpacking and camping.

Leatherman – Signal Multitool, Stainless Steel with Nylon Sheath

Leatherman Signal – Equipped with a Fire Starter

 

 

Best Multitool for Military

The best multitools for military use require them to be dependable, efficient, and able to accomplish almost any task. The Leatherman Charge TTI Multitool meets all of our qualifications for a great military multitool. Its durable titanium frame houses 19 of the most popular tools. In fact, that was Leatherman’s main goal, to incorporate all the most useful tools into a compact frame with aesthetic appeal. We think they accomplished that task.

Leatherman Charge TTI Multitool

Not only does the Leatherman Charge TTI look good, but the ergonomic design is also well thought out. Each tool locks in place, can be used without opening the entire tool (almost functioning like a pocket knife), and can be used one handed. For military use, this multitool can accomplish almost any task, is constructed of durable titanium for dependability, and its ergonomic design is one of the most efficient multitools for 2019.

Leatherman – MUT EOD Multitool, Black with MOLLE Black Sheath

For combat medics, the new for 2019 Leatherman Raptor is specifically designed for first responders. Some of the highlights include foldable medical shears, an oxygen tank wrench, strap/ring cutters, and a glass breaker. The Leatherman Raptor is a must have tool for first responders or combat medics.

Leatherman Raptor

 

 

Leatherman Multitools vs. Gerber Multitools

It’s no surprise that Gerber and Leatherman are at the top of the multi tool industry. With their quality products and great customer service, they continually lead the pack with innovative ideas and gadgets. But what sets them apart and what should you look for when choosing between the two to make that next multitool purchase?

Leatherman Multi tool

When comparing Gerber vs Leatherman, it’s important to look at similar items for a fair review. Both Gerber and Leatherman offer a wide range of products that include multi tools, pocket tools, pocket knives, wearables, and a whole lot more. Leatherman currently offers around 35 different multi tool models, while Gerber has around 34.

As you can see, there are plenty of items available to compare the two, but everyone knows that when they hear the word multitool, they think of Leatherman. And it’s not by accident that this is the case either. It takes years worth of satisfying customers and being an industry leader for something like that to happen. Because of this, the reputation of Leatherman multi tools cannot be matched.

Key Differences – Gerber vs Leatherman

Warranty

Leatherman offers a 25 Year Limited Warranty on its multitools. If anything happens to your multi tool you can just send it back and Leatherman will fix it. As long as you meet several key warranty details, such as you didn’t abuse it, alter it, or us it in an unreasonable manner, the 25 year warranty will be there to fix any defects.

Gerber goes a step further by providing a Limited Lifetime Warranty in North America and 25 years outside of it. So if you’re in North America, Gerber stands behind all defect and flaws in workmanship as long as you own it. Granted there are some key warranty details you must meet, such as not abusing the multitool, but Gerber will fix it for life.

When it comes to Gerber vs Leatherman Warranties, Gerber multitools have the upper hand. Realistically speaking, 25 years out of a multitool is about all you could ever ask for and most get lost or misplaced well before that. I think you will be fine with either brand.

Price

All in all, the prices between Gerber and Leatherman multi tools are comparable. They both offer such a wide range of products that it makes it easy to find items offering the same features at the same price points. They both have affordable version of their products such as the Gerber Dime and Leatherman Wingman. If you need a step up in both quality and features, they have that too. The Gerber Diesel and Leatherman Super Tool 300 are essentially the last multitool you will need and the price still isn’t bad at all.

Keep in mind, that neither offer an extremely cheap multi tool, so look to the Stanley 12-in-1 or Tarvol 14-in-1 tool if you are on a really strict budget and need one for around $10 or less.

Quality

The edge for overall quality goes to Leatherman, but just because they’ve built their reputation in the multi tool industry on it. That’s not to say Gerber doesn’t offer some great products, they do, it’s just they are so close that there’s really not a design flaw or quality flaw to set them apart enough to pick one over the other while comparing similar products.

When it comes to selecting a new multitool from Gerber and Leatherman, it often comes to personal preference, brand loyalty, product specific features, or design. Basically, pick which looks best to you, meets the dimensions and weight of your liking, and has all the key features you use a lot.