Leatherman Skeletool Review: The Minimalist Multi-Tool That Doesn't Compromise
Seven tools. Five ounces. One seriously capable everyday carry.
There’s a particular kind of gear obsession that chases the ideal of doing more with less — where every ounce is scrutinized, every tool earns its place, and the kit you actually carry beats the kit you left behind because it was too heavy. The Leatherman Skeletool ® was built for exactly that mindset, and it’s been proving the point to riders, hikers, and everyday carry enthusiasts since it first hit the market.
Priced at $89.95 and manufactured at Leatherman’s Portland, Oregon factory, the Skeletool is one of the brand’s most celebrated designs — a pared-down, purpose-built multi-tool that strips away the superfluous and keeps what matters. It’s the kind of tool that disappears into your pocket in the morning and quietly handles more situations than you’d expect before lunch.
Form Factor That Actually Works
At just five ounces and four inches closed, the Skeletool earns its reputation as a genuinely pocketable multi-tool. Its skeletonized frame — the design cue that gives it its name — trims weight without sacrificing structural integrity, resulting in a tool that measures 0.52 inches thick and opens to a full six inches when the pliers deploy. The frame itself is 420 stainless steel, giving it durability and corrosion resistance in a package that stays slim.
The removable pocket clip is a thoughtful touch. It can be clipped to a pocket or belt loop for quick access, or removed entirely for a cleaner profile when riding, hiking, or just when you’d rather keep a lower profile. One-hand operation is built into the design — the knife blade deploys with a thumb stud, and several of the tool’s functions are accessible while the tool remains folded.
Seven Tools, No Fluff
The Skeletool’s tool count is compact by design: needlenose pliers, regular pliers, hard-wire cutters, wire cutters, a 420HC combo knife, a carabiner/bottle opener, and a large bit driver. It ships with four bits — Phillips #1 and #2, plus 1/4″ and 3/16″ flathead drivers — and stores them inside the handle for quick access in the field.
The 420HC blade runs 2.6 inches with a modified drop point profile, hardened to 55–59 HRC, and features a combo edge — part plain, part serrated — for versatility across cutting tasks. The blade locks securely when deployed. The carabiner doubles as a bottle opener and adds a carry option for clipping to a pack strap or gear loop.
Bit storage in the handle is a genuinely useful feature for anyone who has fumbled a loose bit into the dirt on a trailside repair. It keeps the essentials contained and accessible without requiring a separate pouch.
Real-World Verdict
With over 1,000 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5 stars, the Skeletool’s reputation is well-earned. Users consistently highlight the razor-sharp blade out of the box, the satisfying weight-to-capability ratio, and the quality of fit and finish. It’s drawn loyal fans in the EDC community, the cycling crowd, and outdoor enthusiasts who want a capable tool without the bulk of a full-size multi-tool. The stainless steel finish holds up well to daily handling, and the overall build quality punches well above the sub-$100 price point.
Where some users note the pliers can feel stiff and the pocket clip benefits from an occasional adjustment for a snugger fit, these are minor critiques of an otherwise highly regarded design. For the overlanding and adventure riding crowd specifically, the Skeletool is a natural fit — light enough to forget about until you need it, capable enough to actually handle the job.
Leatherman backs the Skeletool with a 25-year warranty, and Insider members can extend that to 40 years.
MSRP: $89.95 | leatherman.com
