Multitools › Leatherman

Leatherman Skeletool

Minimal 5 oz multitool built around pliers, a one-hand knife and a bit driver.

80/100 best score, for fishing

Weight: 5.0 oz (142 g)
Closed length: 4 in (102 mm)
Functional tools: 7
Blade steel: 420HC
MSRP: $89.95

Strengths

Lighter than 95% of the plier multitools we list (5.0 oz)
Blades open with one hand without unfolding the tool
Tools lock open
Pocket clip included

Trade-offs

No scissors
No saw

Strengths and trade-offs are worked out from the specifications and compared with similar tools in our database, not from hands-on testing.

Good for: everyday carry, light work. Not ideal for: users who need scissors, camping (no saw).

Scores by use

Use	Score	Tool fit	Portability	Usability	Durability	Value
Fishing	80	66	100	100	50	83
Work and trades	76	58	100	100	50	79
All-round use	74	53	100	100	50	76
Everyday carry	68	47	86	100	50	73
Camping	67	39	100	100	50	69
Cycling	65	45	72	100	50	73
Hiking and backpacking	59	34	68	100	50	67

Scores come from the data on this page. See the formula.

Tools (7 functions, 7 by the maker's count)

Needlenose pliers
Regular pliers
Hard-wire cutter
Wire cutter
Knife (partly serrated)
Bottle opener
Bit driver

Specifications

Brand	Leatherman
Form	plier based, compact
Weight	5.0 oz (142 g)
Closed length	4 in (102 mm)
Open length	6 in (152 mm)
Width	1.24 in (32 mm)
Thickness	0.52 in (13 mm)
Blade steel	420HC
Blade length	2.6 in (66 mm)
One-hand opening	Yes
Locking tools	Yes
Outside-accessible tools	Yes
Bit system	leatherman flat
Price band	50–100
Warranty	25-year limited warranty
Made in	USA (with global parts)

Head-to-head

Skeletool vs Leatherman Skeletool CX

Similar multitools

Questions

How much does the Leatherman Skeletool weigh?

5.0 oz (142 g), and it is 4 in (102 mm) long closed and 6 in (152 mm) open.

How many tools does the Leatherman Skeletool have?

7 functional tools by our count; Leatherman counts 7. We count each kind of tool once, so three screwdriver sizes are one tool.

Does the Leatherman Skeletool have scissors and a saw?

It has no scissors and no saw.

Can I take the Leatherman Skeletool on a plane?

Not in carry-on bags: it has a knife blade, and TSA does not allow knives in the cabin. Pack it in checked luggage.

What bits does the Leatherman Skeletool take?

It takes Leatherman's flat bits (the Bit Kit format).

What is the warranty on the Leatherman Skeletool?

25-year limited warranty.

Sources

Last verified 2026-11-01.

www.leatherman.com (manufacturer, 2026-11-01)
www.adorama.com (retailer, 2026-11-01)