After carrying and using a Leatherman Skeletool for over 10 years while camping, hiking, and traveling, I can definitively say that it’s one of the best tools I’ve used.
My current Leatherman Skeletool multi-tool is the second one I’ve purchased, the first one being at the bottom of a lake in Northern Saskatchewan after a canoe flipping incident…
Regardless, as soon as I dried off and flew back home I promptly purchased the exact same tool again because I loved it so much!
I keep it normally in my work backpack for everyday use as well in my pack while outdoors. And when I travel, it’s always tossed into my luggage so I can tend to any situation while away.
So, let’s dive into why the Leatherman Skeletool is one of the best compact, EDC multi-tools and see if it’s right for you!
Article Contents:
Design and Features of the Multi-tool
All multi-tools are designed with versatility and functionality in mind. But, like all good tools, there needs to be a balance between functionality and usability.
Some multi-tools have a laundry list of built-in features, most of which won’t ever be used for everyday tasks. Other EDC multi-tools are too limited in their abilities. Ultimately, it boils down to your individual needs for most situations and expected conditions.
Personally, the Leatherman Skeletool balances the right amount of features in a compact form factor that I can put to use 99.9% of the time.
- It’s lightweight (5-ounce) and compact (4-inch closed length) which allows it to be used constantly and perfect as an EDC multi-tool
The key tools of the Skeletool include:
- Folding blade (2.6-inch length) with serrated portion
- Needle-noise pliers
- Regular pliers
- Wire snips
- Bottle opener
- Primary bit driver with built-in secondary bit storage
Pro-tip: The Skeletool doesn’t come with a holster, however the built-in pocket clip works great and easily attaches to my camping utility belt. You can also purchase a dedicated kydex sheath or nylon holster.
Intended Uses for the Skeletool
The minimalist design of the Skeletool makes it a great option for every day carry (EDC) as well as common tasks while camping, biking, or traveling.
And, instead of hauling around and opening up my toolbox to find the right tool, I tend to heavily rely on my Leatherman multi-tool.
The three most common features of the Skeletool I find myself utilizing constantly are the knife, pliers and bit driver.
Capable Knife
The 2.6-inch long knife is the perfect size for everyday use. It’s accessible when the multi-tool is in the closed position, and easily opens and closes with single handed use.
The Skeletool utilizes a liner-lock to keep the knife in the opened position, and provides the friction to keep the knife in the closed position.
A word of caution about the liner lock though. It isn’t robust enough to keep the knife safely locked open for use while batoning for splitting wood.
- Excessive impacts to the knife can cause the blade to shift and disengage from the liner lock. A fixed blade knife is better suited for these kinds of tasks
Pro-tip: If you’re looking for a great knife for camping, check out How to Pick the Best Camping Knife for my recommendations.
The Skeletool blade is long enough for everyday tasks such as cutting thicker gauges of rope, processing boxes, basic bushcraft, creating wood shavings for fire starting, striking a ferro rod, food preparation and more.
The blade is also thick enough to keep its shape after heavy usage. The small serrated portion is great for sawing through tougher jobs (e.g., reinforced plastic, rubber, or fabrics).
Versatile Pliers
The dual pliers come in very handy for both precise, intricate work as well as rough, coarse work. The plier handles are large enough to grip properly and to apply pressure for tasks such as nut removal.
I regularly use the pliers at home to remove staples and small nails, tighten loose nuts, crimp metal sheets, and more.
While camping, I regularly use the pliers for hook removal while fishing. Likewise, I use the pliers as a make-shift handle for pots and pans when they get too hot to handle.
Handy Driver Bit
Definitely underrated, the driver bit comes in very handy especially for quick fixes.
I carry the dual Philips bit (No.1 & No. 2) installed in the primary position, and a dual Robertson bit (R2 & R3) in the secondary storage position which is tucked away in the handle.
These two bits have allowed me to loosen or tighten countless screws over the years, more-so than my dedicated bit set at home.
It’s invaluable while outdoors or traveling when you don’t have your full toolkit. You can easily repair gear since the Skeletool is always with you.
And, if you need additional bits, there’s a variety of Leatherman bit kits available. The great thing is that they’re all cross-compatible!
Stainless Steel vs. Carbon Fiber
The Leatherman Skeletool comes in a variety of colors and coatings but the base material is 420HC stainless steel. Being stainless steel, the material will not corrode which makes it great for repeated outdoor use in wet conditions.
The grade of stainless steel is ideal for the knife and allows the edge to be finely sharpened, although not as much as a carbon steel blade.
A carbon fiber version of the Skeletool is also available. However, only a small internal portion of the tool is made from carbon fiber, the rest is still stainless steel. It’s purely for aesthetics.
- Since I’ve had both, I can say the carbon fiber version of the Skeletool has practically zero benefit over the stainless steel model.
- The carbon fiber version is slightly more expensive but adds no additional functionality
I recommend purchasing the standard stainless steel variants without the carbon fiber accent. You’ll save a bit of money and still have a fantastic looking multi-tool!
What’s the Difference Between Skeletool and Skeletool CX
Having purchased the original Skeletool over 10 years ago, I’m delighted to see there’s been continued developments for this model of multi-tool.
Leatherman have created a “CX” version of the Skeletool but what’s so special about this model?
- The CX denotes an upgraded blade material (420HC upgraded to 154CM) and use of carbon fiber in the handle
- Also, the original Skeletool had a combination straight / serrated edge blade, whereas the Skeletool CX has a full straight edge blade
Personally, I find that the serrated portion of the original blade comes in very handy for processing boxes, cutting cables and ropes, and sawing through tougher materials.
The straight portion of the original blade is still long enough for most intricate tasks. Ultimately, you might prefer just a straight blade for all your intended uses.
From a cost perspective, the Skeletool CX is slightly more expensive:
- The original Skeletool is $75 whereas the Skeletool CX is normally $100, but on sale it’s $90 – that’s a 20% difference in cost even at sale pricing!
For me it’s a no-brainer… The original Skeletool without carbon fiber and the standard stainless steel with combination blade edge is much better value!
Best Alternative Leatherman Multi-tools for Camping
The Leatherman Skeletool is an EDC multi-tool that’s also well suited for camping. I’ve never felt limited by it’s functionality. It’s size and overall form-factor are ideal for beginner to intermediate outdoor enthusiasts.
I do also carry additional tools while camping to supplement my multi-tool including a folding saw [Bahco Laplander Review], hatchet, fixed blade knife [Camillus Bushcrafter], and folding knife [Benchmade 940].
However, for more extreme campers, survivalists, and bushcrafters, the Skeletool can be somewhat limiting.
So, what alternative multi-tools are better suited for these types of individuals.
Leatherman Free P4
We’ll, one of the best full-function multi-tools (and probably my next purchase) would be the Leatherman Free P4.
- Similar to the Skeletool, the Free P4 is made from 420HC stainless steel
- However, unlike the Skeletool which is limited to 7 tools, the Free P4 has a whooping 21 built-in tools!
By far, two of the best design elements of the Free P4 is that it’s designed with a magnetic opening and closing locking system, and all the tools (apart from the pliers) are accessible from the outside when the tool is in the closed position.
Both these features let you use the tool effortlessly and efficiently with one hand. This functionality is priceless in the backcountry where time and energy are so precious.
So, whether you’re setting up your shelter or animal traps, repairing damaged gear, processing wood or preparing food, the Leatherman Free P4 will happily fulfill all of your needs.
Leatherman Wave
Another extremely popular multi-tool for camping and the outdoors is the Leatherman Wave. Again, just like the Skeletool and Free P4, the Wave is made from 420HC stainless steel.
The wave includes 18 built-in features, including a tool to inter-change large bits.
The straight edge and serrated knives, saw, and large file are all accessible from the outside of the tool. However, the remaining tools are only accessible once the tool is opened.
- From a cost perspective, the Wave is 20% cheaper than the Free P4
So, if you have a limited budget but still need a versatile tool, go for the Leatherman Wave.
Leatherman Signal
If you’re looking for a tailor-made multi-tool for camping, then check out the Leatherman Signal. It’s been designed and engineered specifically for all your camping needs!
The multi-tool is made from 420HC stainless steel so it’s ready for all sorts of environments without corroding.
Some cool features of the Signal include a built-in carabineer clip, hammer, ¼” hex bit driver, safety whistle, ferrocerium fire-starting rod, and knife sharpener.
Because the Signal is a niche multi-tool for camping, and includes some additional specialty features, it comes a premium price.
- The Signal is more expensive (15%) than the Wave but slightly cheaper (7%) than the Free P4
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