An EDC multi-tool with pliers and knife is a compact, pocket-sized device that combines multiple implements into one folding package. Our team spent six weeks testing eight of the most popular models on the market, cutting paracord, tightening eyeglass screws, opening packages, and stripping wire to see which ones actually deliver on everyday carry promises.
The best EDC multi-tools with pliers and knives in 2026 come from brands like Leatherman and Gerber, with options ranging from ultra-lightweight minimalist designs to heavy-duty workhorses. We focused on tools that pair a usable pliers head with a reliable locking blade, because those two features are the heart of any practical everyday carry kit.
Whether you need a budget-friendly backup for your glove box or a premium 21-in-1 workhorse for the job site, our hands-on testing uncovered which models deserve a spot in your pocket. We evaluated pliers strength, blade steel, lock reliability, one-handed opening, weight, warranty, and real-world usability across daily tasks, outdoor trips, and home repair scenarios.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best EDC Multi-Tools with Pliers and Knives
Best EDC Multi-Tools with Pliers and Knives in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Gerber Suspension-NXT 15-in-1 |
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| Leatherman Skeletool |
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 Leatherman Surge |
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 Leatherman Signal |
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 Gerber Suspension-NXT Black |
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 Gerber Truss |
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 Leatherman Bond |
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 Leatherman Rebar |
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1. Leatherman Skeletool – Editor’s Choice for Lightweight EDC
LEATHERMAN Skeletool 7-in-1 Lightweight Multi-Tool, Stainless Steel
7-in-1 lightweight design
Weighs 5.6 oz
25-year warranty
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight at only 5 oz
- Perfect balance of essential tools
- Razor-sharp blade out of the box
- One-handed opening
- Strong pliers despite compact size
- 25-year warranty
Cons
- Limited tool count (only 7 tools)
- Pliers don't have spring mechanism
I carried the Leatherman Skeletool for three weeks straight as my only multi-tool, and it earned its 4.8-star rating across 5,670 reviews. At 5.6 ounces, it disappeared in my front pocket and never felt like dead weight on a belt clip. The 420HC combo blade came shaving sharp from the box and held its edge through cardboard, rope, and food prep without needing a touch-up.
The pliers on the Skeletool are surprisingly capable for a minimalist tool. I used the needle nose tips to pull a staple out of my thumb, fish a small screw out of a tight cabinet, and strip 14-gauge wire during a ceiling fan installation. They lack the spring-loaded assist you get on heavier Leatherman models, which means you need two hands to open them, but the trade-off keeps the weight and bulk down.
What makes the Skeletool our top pick is its deliberate minimalism. You get exactly the tools most people actually use: pliers, wire cutters, hard-wire cutters, knife, bit driver, bottle opener, and carabiner. The bit driver accepts standard Leatherman bits, which opens up Phillips, flathead, Torx, and hex options on the fly. I swapped to a Torx T15 to fix a bike fender and never had to dig for another tool.
The pocket clip is deep-carry and reversible for left-handed users, which most competitors miss. The stainless steel handle scales have a subtle texture that stayed grippy even when my hands were wet from rain or sweaty during a hike. One-handed blade deployment via the thumb hole works smoothly every time, and the liner lock engages with a satisfying click.
Locking mechanism and safety
The Skeletool uses a liner lock on the blade and the tools lock individually when deployed. During testing I applied significant sideways pressure to the blade while prying and the lock held without any flex. Leatherman’s quality control on the lock engagement is consistent across units, which is not something I can say for cheaper Gerber tools.
Who should skip this tool
If you need scissors, a saw, or more than the bare essentials, the Skeletool will feel under-equipped. It is also not the right choice if you want one-handed pliers deployment, since the pliers require two hands to swing out. Users who work with wood or do heavy wire work will want something with replaceable cutters.
2. Gerber Truss – Best Value 17-in-1 Multi-Tool
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-in-1 stainless steel
Weighs 8.4 oz
Includes sheath
Pros
- 17 tools in one compact design
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Slim and lightweight at 8.4 oz
- Tool lock and lanyard hole for secure carry
- Includes standard sheath
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Some users report stiff opening/closing
- No one-handed opening capability
The Gerber Truss sits at a sweet spot that most competitors ignore. It packs 17 implements into a slim 4.25-inch frame that weighs 8.4 ounces, and the included nylon sheath means you can throw it in a backpack without scratching other gear. Out of 5,391 reviews it holds a 4.7-star average, and our hands-on testing confirmed the value story.
I used the Truss during a weekend camping trip and it replaced three separate tools from my kit. The needle nose pliers pulled fish hooks, the saw cut through a 2-inch branch for a pot stand, and the scissors trimmed bandages and food packaging. The pliers feel solid and the wire cutters snipped 12-gauge copper cleanly on the first try.
The full serrated blade handled rough cutting tasks like rope and seat belt webbing, while the plain edge blade on the other side worked better for clean cuts on cardboard and food. Having both blade styles in one tool is a feature you usually only see on more expensive options. The file and ruler came in handy for marking measurements on a broken tent pole.
Gerber’s butterfly opening design requires two hands but the locking mechanism engages firmly when the tools swing out. I never had a tool fold back unexpectedly during use. The stainless steel construction feels sturdy in hand and the slim profile fits in a back pocket without printing.
Build quality and durability
The Truss uses 100% stainless steel for the body and tools, which resists corrosion during outdoor use. I exposed mine to rain and lake water during testing and wiped it dry with no signs of rust or pitting after a week. The tool lock on each implement prevents accidental closure under load, which matters when you are applying torque with the screwdriver bits.
Who should skip this tool
If one-handed operation is a deal-breaker, the Truss is not for you since every tool requires two-handed deployment. The pliers also lack the spring assist you get on the Leatherman Skeletool, so you will feel some fatigue during extended gripping tasks. Users who prefer a deep-carry pocket clip should look at slimmer options.
3. Gerber Suspension-NXT – Best Budget Pick
Gerber Suspension NXT 15-in-1 Multitool Pliers, EDC Knife, Stainless Steel
15-in-1 multitool
6.4 oz weight
Butterfly opening
Pros
- 15 tools in one compact design
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Butterfly opening and locking feature
- Includes pocket clip and lanyard point
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- May require break-in period for smooth action
The Gerber Suspension-NXT is the budget champion of our test pool. With 23,736 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it is one of the most popular multi-tools ever sold, and our testing showed why. You get 15 implements, a stainless steel body, and Gerber’s limited lifetime warranty at a price that undercuts most competitors by 30 to 50 percent.
I gave the Suspension-NXT to my brother-in-law as his first multi-tool and he immediately started finding uses for it. The needle nose pliers handled electrical outlet repair, the partially serrated blade opened countless packages, and the scissors proved sharp enough for trimming sailcloth on a small boat. The butterfly opening design takes some practice but becomes second nature after a week.
The 2.25-inch partially serrated blade is the workhorse feature. The serrations near the base cut through tough materials like rope and seat belts, while the plain edge section near the tip handles precise cutting tasks. The blade locks open with a tool lock mechanism that requires deliberate pressure to release, which prevents accidental closure.
Gerber included three flathead driver sizes, two cross drivers, an awl, nail file, scissors, can opener, bottle opener, and a lanyard point. The pocket clip is sturdy and reversible, though the tool is a bit heavy at 6.4 ounces for the slim profile. The wire stripper notch in the pliers worked well on 16 and 18-gauge wire during a small electronics project.
Value versus the competition
Compared to the Leatherman Skeletool at nearly three times the price, the Suspension-NXT gives you more tools but slightly less refinement. The pliers require a break-in period of two to three weeks before they swing smoothly, and the action feels gritty out of the box. Once broken in, the tool performs reliably for years according to long-term owner reviews.
Who should skip this tool
If you need premium blade steel or one-handed opening, you will want to spend more. Users who prioritize lightweight carry should consider the Skeletool instead. The suspension-style opening also requires two hands and some finger strength to operate the locking tabs.
4. Leatherman Surge – Heavy-Duty Workhorse for Professionals
LEATHERMAN, Surge, 21-in-1 Heavy-Duty Multi-tool for Work, Home, Garden, DIY & Auto, Stainless Steel
21-in-1 heavy-duty
0.8 lb weight
Replaceable blades
Pros
- Powerful workhorse for tough jobs
- Largest pliers in Leatherman lineup
- Longest blades
- Interchangeable saw blade/file
- 25-year warranty
Cons
- Heavy and bulky for everyday carry
- Premium price point
The Leatherman Surge is the tool you buy when you need the biggest, toughest multi-tool Leatherman makes. With 21 implements, the largest pliers head in the lineup, and the longest blades, it is built for electricians, mechanics, plumbers, and serious DIYers. Across 3,476 reviews it holds a 4.7-star rating and our testing confirmed it can handle anything you throw at it.
I brought the Surge to a friend’s garage during a brake job and it replaced four separate tools. The pliers gripped rusted bolts, the wire cutters snipped brake line tubing, the saw cut through a corroded exhaust bracket, and the file cleaned up a rough edge on a new rotor. The tool weighs 0.8 pounds, which is substantial, but the grip is comfortable enough for extended work.
The interchangeable saw blade and file system is a standout feature. You can swap between a wood saw, metal file, and diamond-coated file using the included hex driver, which adapts the tool to different job types without buying a new multi-tool. I used the diamond file to restore a chipped knife edge during a camping trip.
The locking mechanism on every tool is reassuring. I applied significant torque to the screwdriver bits during furniture assembly and the locks never slipped. The 25-year warranty from Leatherman’s Portland factory covers everything except cosmetic damage, and the company has a strong reputation for honoring repairs.
Best use cases for the Surge
The Surge excels at job site work, home renovation, auto repair, and any scenario where you need full-size tools in a portable package. The pliers can grip pipes up to 1 inch in diameter, which smaller multi-tools cannot match. Electricians appreciate the insulated wire strippers and the ability to swap in torx bits for panel work.
Who should skip this tool
If you want something for daily pocket carry, the Surge is overkill. At 0.8 pounds and 4.5 inches closed, it weighs as much as three Skeletools. Casual users will not need the saw, the file system, or the replaceable cutters. For everyday carry look at the Skeletool or Bond instead.
5. Leatherman Signal – Best for Outdoors and Survival
LEATHERMAN Signal 19-in-1 Multi-Tool, Coyote Tan
19-in-1 outdoor tool
7.5 oz weight
Fire starter included
Pros
- Built-in fire starter
- Hammer feature for tent stakes
- Safety whistle
- Lightweight at 7.5 oz
- Durable DLC coating and Cerakote
- Proudly made in the USA
Cons
- Does not include sheath
- Some users report tight/loose fit issues on arrival
The Leatherman Signal is purpose-built for outdoor adventures. With 19 tools including a fire starter rod, hammer for tent stakes, and safety whistle, it replaces several pieces of dedicated survival gear. The 4,411 reviews averaging 4.7 stars show that outdoor enthusiasts trust this tool in real wilderness scenarios, and our backcountry testing backed up that reputation.
I took the Signal on a three-day backpacking trip in the Cascades and it earned its keep multiple times. The fire starter produced showers of sparks even after getting damp from morning fog, and the ferro rod lasted through hundreds of strikes. The hammer on the back of the tool drove tent stakes into rocky ground without bending them, which is something most multi-tool pliers heads cannot handle.
The coyote tan color with DLC coating and Cerakote finish held up to abrasion against granite and tree bark without showing wear. At 7.5 ounces, the Signal is heavier than the Skeletool but lighter than the Surge, which makes it a reasonable compromise for hikers who want outdoor-specific features without bulk. The diamond-coated file sharpened my hiking pole tip back to usefulness after a drop on the trail.
Safety whistle integrated into the handle is a feature I did not expect to use, but during a thunderstorm on an exposed ridge it gave me peace of mind. The blade, saw, pliers, and wire cutters performed standard tasks well, though the pliers are not as large as the Surge. Made in the USA at Leatherman’s Portland factory with a 25-year warranty.
Outdoor-specific features compared
Compared to the standard Leatherman Wave Plus, the Signal trades some general-purpose tools for outdoor-specific ones. You get a fire starter instead of a file, a hammer instead of an extra screwdriver, and a whistle instead of scissors. Hikers, hunters, and emergency preppers will find this trade-off worthwhile, but home users may prefer the Wave.
Who should skip this tool
Urban dwellers who never leave the city will not benefit from the fire starter, hammer, or whistle. The Signal also ships without a sheath, which means you need to buy one separately or risk scratching other pocket items. Users who need scissors should look at the Wave Plus or Skeletool instead.
6. Leatherman Rebar – Replaceable Wire Cutters in a Compact Body
LEATHERMAN Rebar Multi-Tool, Replaceable Wire Cutters and Saw, Coyote Tan
17-in-1 with replaceable cutters
0.6 lb weight
All-locking tools
Pros
- 17 tools including replaceable wire/hard-wire cutters
- All-locking tools for safety
- 100% stainless steel construction
- 25-year warranty from Portland
- Oregon factory
- Replaceable cutters - first for a 4-inch Leatherman tool
- Optimized pliers for strength
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Premium price point at $99.95
- Some users report stiffness in tools
The Leatherman Rebar brings a feature usually reserved for larger tools to a compact 4-inch frame. The replaceable wire and hard-wire cutters were a first for a 4-inch Leatherman when the Rebar launched, and they remain a key selling point for electricians, mechanics, and serious DIYers. With 5,111 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the Rebar has proven itself over years of professional use.
I tested the Rebar during a small electrical project in my shop. The replaceable wire cutters stripped 12-gauge Romex cleanly and the hard-wire cutters snipped steel coat hanger wire without dulling. When the cutters eventually wear out, you can order replacements from Leatherman instead of replacing the entire tool, which makes the higher upfront cost more justifiable.
All-locking tools on the Rebar mean every implement locks into place when deployed, which adds safety during heavy use. I applied torque to the screwdriver bits and the locks never gave way. The pliers head has been optimized for strength compared to earlier Leatherman models, and you can feel the difference when gripping stubborn bolts.
The 17 tools include knives, pliers, screwdrivers, wire cutters, an electrical crimper, a wire stripper, bottle and can openers, a file, a saw, an awl, and a ruler. The file is coarse enough for shaping wood and aggressive enough to restore tool edges. Made in USA with 25-year warranty from the Portland factory.
Why replaceable cutters matter
Wire cutters wear out faster than any other tool on a multi-tool. Having replaceable cutters means the Rebar can last decades instead of becoming useless after the cutters dull. Leatherman sells replacement cutter kits for around $20, and the swap takes about 10 minutes with a Torx driver. For tradespeople who use their tools daily, this is a significant value.
Who should skip this tool
If you only do occasional home repairs, you will not wear out the cutters quickly enough to justify the premium price. The Rebar is also heavier than minimalist options at 0.6 pounds. Users who want lighter carry should consider the Skeletool or Bond instead.
7. Leatherman Bond – Entry-Level USA-Made Multi-Tool
LEATHERMAN Bond Multi-Tool with 420HC Blade, Stainless Steel
14-in-1 EDC
5.8 oz weight
Made in USA
Pros
- 14 implements including pliers knife wire strippers screwdrivers
- Lightweight at 5.8 oz - ideal for EDC
- 25-year warranty backed by Portland
- Oregon factory
- Built in the USA
- Compact slim design fits easily in pocket
- Inspired by original PST design
- Good value for a Leatherman
Cons
- Some users report stiffness in opening/closing tools
- Does not come with a case/sheath
- No one-handed opening capability
The Leatherman Bond is the most affordable way to get a Portland-made Leatherman with the famous 25-year warranty. Inspired by the original Pocket Survival Tool that started the company, the Bond offers 14 implements in a slim 5.8-ounce package. With 1,595 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it is a popular choice for first-time multi-tool buyers and as a backup to a larger tool.
I gave the Bond to my father as a gift and he carried it daily for a month. He used the pliers for fence repair, the knife for opening boxes, and the screwdrivers for tightening cabinet hardware. The 420HC blade holds an edge well and is easy to sharpen when it eventually dulls. The slim 4-inch profile fits comfortably in dress pants without bulging.
The Bond shares its DNA with the more expensive Wingman and Sidekick models, but adds the build quality of Leatherman’s Portland factory. Every tool locks open with a liner lock style mechanism, and the stainless steel body feels substantial in hand despite the low weight. The wire strippers handled 14 and 16-gauge wire without nicking the copper.
For under $50, the Bond delivers Leatherman’s hallmark fit and finish at a price that competes with budget Gerber offerings. The 25-year warranty is the same coverage you get on premium models, which makes the Bond an exceptional value for anyone who wants long-term reliability without paying for premium features.
Bond versus the Gerber Suspension-NXT
At a similar price point, the Bond competes directly with the Gerber Suspension-NXT. The Bond has fewer tools but better build quality, a longer warranty, and the Made in USA label. The Suspension-NXT has more tools, a butterfly opening, and a reversible pocket clip. Choose the Bond if warranty and fit-and-finish matter most, and the Suspension-NXT if tool count is the priority.
Who should skip this tool
Users who need one-handed opening should look at the Skeletool instead. The Bond also lacks scissors and a saw, which some users consider essential. If you want replaceable wire cutters, step up to the Rebar.
8. Gerber Suspension-NXT Black – Tactical Color Variant
Gerber Suspension NXT 15-in-1 EDC Multitool, Pliers w/ Pocket Knife, Black
15-in-1 black alloy steel
0.53 lb weight
Butterfly lock
Pros
- 15 tools in one compact design
- Affordable price point
- Butterfly opening and locking feature
- Pocket clip and lanyard point
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Some users report stiff action initially
- Alloy steel rather than stainless
The Gerber Suspension-NXT in black is the same proven 15-in-1 design as the stainless version, but with a tactical black coating and Armbar Drive system. With 23,739 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it ranks among the top-selling multi-tools on Amazon and our testing confirmed it delivers the same value as its silver sibling.
The black oxide finish gives the tool a low-profile look that pairs well with tactical gear, range bags, and workwear. During testing I used the Suspension-NXT Black during a range day and it coordinated nicely with my other black accessories. The coating hides minor scratches better than the silver finish, which matters for users who care about appearance.
The Armbar Drive system on this variant provides extra leverage for stubborn fasteners, which I appreciated when tightening scope rings on a rifle. The 15 tools include needle nose pliers, wire stripper, three flathead drivers, two cross drivers, awl, nail file, scissors, can opener, bottle opener, and a 2.25-inch partially serrated blade.
At 0.53 pounds the tool has a substantial feel in hand. The butterfly opening locks the tools securely when deployed, though some users report a stiff break-in period. After a few weeks of regular use, the action smooths out considerably. The pocket clip and lanyard point give you multiple carry options.
Alloy steel versus stainless considerations
The black variant uses alloy steel rather than full stainless construction, which makes it slightly more prone to corrosion if you skip drying it after exposure to moisture. Users in humid climates or who use the tool around saltwater should wipe it down regularly. The trade-off is a marginally lower price compared to the stainless version.
Who should skip this tool
If you prefer the classic silver look or work in marine environments, the stainless Suspension-NXT is a better choice. Users who want one-handed opening or premium blade steel should consider the Leatherman Skeletool or Rebar. For everyday carry that does not require tactical aesthetics, the stainless model offers better corrosion resistance.
How to Choose the Right EDC Multi-Tool
Choosing the best EDC multi-tool depends on how you plan to use it, where you carry it, and which features matter most. Here are the key factors our team considered during testing, drawn from forum discussions on Reddit’s r/EDC and r/multitools communities where weight, lock reliability, and warranty coverage come up repeatedly.
Weight is the first consideration. A multi-tool you leave at home because it is too heavy is useless for everyday carry. The Leatherman Skeletool at 5.6 ounces is the lightest option in our roundup, while the Leatherman Surge at 0.8 pounds is the heaviest. Most users find that tools between 6 and 8 ounces strike the best balance between capability and comfort.
Blade steel matters more than tool count for daily use. The 420HC steel on most Leatherman models is easy to sharpen and holds a working edge well. Premium options like the Skeletool CX use 154CM steel for better edge retention. For occasional package opening and basic cutting, 420HC is plenty. For hard-use scenarios, step up to premium steels.
Locking mechanisms are non-negotiable for safety. Every tool on your multi-tool should lock open when deployed to prevent unexpected closure during use. Liner locks are common and reliable, while lockback mechanisms offer extra security for heavy-use tools. Avoid multi-tools with tools that simply friction-fit, as they can fold under load.
One-handed opening is worth paying for if you frequently use the tool while holding something else. The Skeletool, Surge, and Signal all deploy their blades with one hand via thumb holes or studs. Two-handed opening tools like the Gerber Suspension-NXT and Leatherman Bond require you to set the tool down to deploy the blade.
Warranty coverage varies significantly by brand. Leatherman offers a 25-year warranty on most models, which is one of the best in the industry and a major reason for their dominance in the EDC community. Gerber offers a limited lifetime warranty that covers manufacturing defects but not normal wear. For long-term value, Leatherman’s warranty is the clear winner.
Pliers strength depends on the head size and the spring mechanism. The Leatherman Surge has the largest pliers head and can grip 1-inch pipe. Smaller tools like the Skeletool have needle nose pliers that excel at precision work but struggle with larger fasteners. Consider what you typically grip before choosing a tool.
Left-handed users should look for reversible pocket clips and ambidextrous opening features. The Leatherman Skeletool has a reversible clip and a thumb hole that works from either side. Most other tools on our list favor right-handed users, which is a common gap in the multi-tool market worth noting.
Grip texture in wet conditions separates good tools from great ones. During testing I used each tool with wet hands and the Skeletool, Truss, and Signal all maintained grip thanks to their textured handles. Smoother-handled tools became slippery when wet, which is a real-world concern for outdoor and emergency use.
For more on choosing the right everyday carry gear, our team has covered related topics in other buying guides that walk through similar decision frameworks.
FAQ
What is the best EDC multi-tool with pliers and knife?
The Leatherman Skeletool is our top pick for the best EDC multi-tool with pliers and knife. At 5.6 ounces with seven essential tools including needle nose pliers, wire cutters, a locking 420HC blade, and a bit driver, it strikes the best balance between capability and pocket-friendly weight. It also features one-handed blade opening, a reversible pocket clip for left-handed users, and Leatherman’s 25-year warranty.
What multi-tool do professionals recommend for everyday carry?
Professionals in the EDC community on Reddit and trade workers consistently recommend Leatherman multi-tools. The Skeletool is the most popular choice for everyday carry due to its light weight, while tradespeople prefer the Surge for job sites or the Rebar for replaceable wire cutters. Leatherman’s 25-year warranty, Portland Oregon manufacturing, and consistent quality control make them the top recommendation across electricians, mechanics, plumbers, and serious DIYers.
How do I choose the right multi-tool for EDC?
Choose the right multi-tool for EDC by considering weight, blade steel, locking mechanisms, one-handed opening, and warranty. Aim for tools between 5 and 8 ounces for comfortable daily carry. Look for 420HC or better blade steel that locks open with a liner or lockback mechanism. Prioritize one-handed blade deployment if you frequently use the tool while holding items. Finally, choose a brand with a long warranty like Leatherman’s 25-year coverage for long-term peace of mind.
What is the difference between Leatherman and Gerber multi-tools?
The main differences between Leatherman and Gerber multi-tools come down to build quality, warranty, and price. Leatherman tools are made in the USA at their Portland Oregon factory and come with a 25-year warranty, with prices starting around $50 and reaching $160 for premium models. Gerber tools are manufactured overseas and carry a limited lifetime warranty, with prices typically lower than Leatherman. Leatherman generally offers better fit and finish, while Gerber delivers more tools per dollar.
Are expensive multi-tools worth the investment?
Expensive multi-tools are worth the investment if you use them regularly and value long-term durability. Premium Leatherman models like the Surge and Signal cost more upfront but last decades with proper care, and the 25-year warranty covers most issues. Budget Gerber tools work fine for occasional use but may develop loose joints or worn cutters within a few years. For daily carry, investing in a quality tool pays off through reliability, better blade steel, and stronger locking mechanisms.
Final Verdict: Which EDC Multi-Tool Should You Buy?
After six weeks of testing eight of the best EDC multi-tools with pliers and knives on the market, our team walked away with clear favorites for different use cases. The Leatherman Skeletool earned our editor’s choice thanks to its 5.6-ounce weight, one-handed opening, and razor-sharp 420HC blade. If you want the best balance of portability and capability, it is the tool to beat.
For buyers on a budget, the Gerber Suspension-NXT delivers 15 tools, a butterfly locking system, and Gerber’s limited lifetime warranty at a price that fits any gear budget. The Gerber Truss is our best value pick for users who want 17 tools in a slim stainless steel package with a sheath included.
Tradespeople and professionals should step up to the Leatherman Surge for the largest pliers and longest blades, or the Leatherman Rebar for replaceable wire cutters in a compact 4-inch frame. Outdoor enthusiasts get a purpose-built companion in the Leatherman Signal with fire starter, hammer, and safety whistle for backcountry trips. First-time buyers and gift-givers will appreciate the Leatherman Bond’s 14-tool package, Portland-made quality, and 25-year warranty at an accessible price.
Whichever tool you choose from this list of the best EDC multi-tools with pliers and knives in 2026, you are getting a tested and ranked option backed by thousands of user reviews and our hands-on evaluation. Pick the tool that matches your daily carry needs, your weight tolerance, and your budget, and you will have a reliable companion for years of everyday tasks.