Leatherman multi-tools have earned global recognition, becoming almost synonymous with the term “multi-tool” itself. With an extensive range of multi-tools across various categories, Leatherman offers a tool for almost everyone. However, the sheer variety can make choosing the ideal Leatherman for your specific needs a challenge. Understanding the differences between Leatherman models is key to making the right choice. Let’s delve into a comparison to help you find the perfect Leatherman multi-tool.
The Origin Story of Leatherman
The Leatherman story began in the late 1970s and early 1980s when Tim Leatherman and his wife embarked on a European adventure in a Fiat. During their travels, Tim frequently relied on his pocket knife to repair their car and handle various fixes in their accommodations. Yet, he consistently encountered a recurring limitation: his pocket knife lacked pliers. This realization sparked his engineering mind, leading him to conceive the design for the multi-tool we recognize today. Interestingly, Leatherman initially presented his concept to numerous renowned knife and tool manufacturers, but faced rejection from every major brand. Undeterred, he partnered with his brother-in-law to develop the tool independently, establishing the Leatherman company. And so, the pioneer of the modern multi-tool was born.
Leatherman’s Size-Based Collection Divisions
Beyond well-known collections like the Wave, Charge, Juice, and Surge, Leatherman categorizes its tools by size, offering a practical starting point for narrowing down your options. These size categories include:
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Keychain Tools: Designed for ultimate portability, these compact tools attach easily to your keychain, ensuring essential functionalities are always within reach.
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Pocket Tools: Slightly larger than keychain tools, pocket tools strike a balance between portability and functionality, fitting comfortably in your pocket while offering a useful set of features.
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Pocket Size Tools: This category encompasses tools that are still pocketable but offer a more substantial set of tools and greater capability than smaller pocket tools.
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Full Size Tools: Leatherman’s full-size multi-tools are designed for robust tasks, providing a comprehensive range of tools and durable construction for demanding applications.
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Heavy Duty Tools: Built for the toughest jobs, heavy-duty tools are the largest and most robust in the Leatherman lineup, offering maximum strength and a wide array of heavy-duty features.
By understanding these size categories, you can begin to Compare Leatherman Models more effectively and identify the tools that best align with your everyday carry needs or specific tasks. Further exploration into specific models within these categories will help you pinpoint the perfect Leatherman multi-tool for you.
