Best multitool: compare the tool list, not the tool count
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Quick answer
Pick a multitool by the tools you will really use. Leatherman's Wave Plus lists 18 tools, including spring-action scissors and bit drivers, and its blades open from outside without opening the pliers. The Rebar lists 17, adding an awl but no scissors. Gerber's Suspension-NXT lists 15 tools with a pocket clip. Leatherman backs its tools for 25 years; Gerber offers a limited lifetime warranty. TSA does not allow knives, multitool blades included, in carry-on bags.
Three full-size multitools side by side
| Spec | Leatherman Wave Plus | Leatherman Rebar | Gerber Suspension-NXT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tools listed | 18 | 17 | 15 |
| Closed length | 4 in | 4 in | See note below |
| Main blade | 2.92 in 420HC, locking | 2.9 in 420HC, locking | 2.25 in plain/serrated |
| Weight | Not listed on spec table | 6.7 oz | 6.7 oz |
| Scissors | Spring-action | Not listed | Yes |
| Drivers | Large and small bit drivers, bits included | Fixed Phillips, large and small screwdrivers | Cross driver; large, medium and small flat drivers |
| Carry | Sheath sold separately | Not stated | Pocket clip |
| Warranty | 25 years | 25 years | Limited lifetime |
Gerber's page gives two length figures: a closed length of 4.25 in in its feature list, and 2.75 in closed and 4.25 in overall in its spec table. Check the listing if pocket size matters.
What the extra tools actually do
- Outside-access blades (Wave Plus): Leatherman says the main tools open from the outside, so you can use the knife, saw or scissors without unfolding the pliers.
- Bit driver (Wave Plus): large and small bit drivers take interchangeable bits, including an eyeglass screwdriver and Phillips sizes.
- Wire tools (both Leatherman): replaceable wire and hard-wire cutters, a crimper and a wire stripper.
- Awl (Rebar): an awl with a thread loop, useful for punching holes and stitching.
- Pocket clip (Suspension-NXT): Gerber says it carries in a pocket or on a belt, with a slim butterfly design and outboard tools; its list also includes scissors, an awl, a file and a wire stripper.
Matching a multitool to your kit
- Home and emergency kit: the Wave Plus covers the most jobs in one tool, from scissors for bandages and tape to bit drivers for small screws.
- Truck or workshop: the Rebar trades scissors for an awl and fixed screwdrivers; Leatherman lists it slightly slimmer (0.65 in thick against 0.7 in).
- Everyday pocket carry: the Suspension-NXT's clip keeps it reachable without a sheath.
For bigger cutting jobs, a dedicated knife or saw has a larger blade; see our survival knife and folding knife guides.
Four questions before you buy
- Do you need scissors? The Wave Plus and Suspension-NXT list them; the Rebar does not.
- Do you need bits? Only the Wave Plus lists bit drivers that take interchangeable bits; the others use fixed screwdrivers.
- How will you carry it? Gerber's has a pocket clip; Leatherman sells the Wave Plus sheath separately.
- How long should it last? Leatherman lists 25 years and replaceable wire cutters; Gerber lists a limited lifetime warranty.
Answer those four and the right tool usually picks itself; the total tool count matters less than whether the specific tools you need are on the list.
Travel and carry rules
TSA lists knives as not allowed in carry-on bags and allowed in checked bags, with sharp objects sheathed or securely wrapped. All three tools here have knife blades, so pack them in checked luggage when flying. TSA also says the final decision rests with the officer at the checkpoint.
Local knife laws vary for everyday carry, especially for locking blades; check your state and city rules.
Care and warranty
- Warranty: Leatherman lists a 25-year warranty on both of its tools here; Gerber lists a limited lifetime warranty on the Suspension-NXT.
- Replaceable cutters: both Leatherman models list replaceable wire cutters, so a worn cutter does not end the tool's life.
- Steel: the Leatherman blades are 420HC stainless; keep them dry and sharp.
- Locks: both Leatherman models list locking blades and implements; check that each lock engages before using force.
What to look for when you buy
Most tools: Leatherman Wave Plus
Best for: A home, car or emergency kit where one tool has to do the most
Leatherman lists 18 tools including spring-action scissors, bit drivers, replaceable wire cutters and a 2.92 in 420HC locking blade, with outside-access tools and a 25-year warranty.
Watch out: The sheath is sold separately; the blade means checked bags only when flying.
See options on Amazon (opens Amazon in a new tab)Work-focused: Leatherman Rebar
Best for: Workshops and trucks where an awl matters more than scissors
Leatherman lists 17 tools including an awl with thread loop, replaceable wire cutters, a crimper and a 2.9 in 420HC locking blade, at 6.7 oz with a 25-year warranty.
Watch out: No scissors and no bit driver in Leatherman's tool list.
See options on Amazon (opens Amazon in a new tab)Pocket clip carry: Gerber Suspension-NXT
Best for: Everyday carry without a belt sheath
Gerber lists 15 tools, a pocket clip, a slim butterfly design with outboard tools, 6.7 oz and a limited lifetime warranty.
Watch out: Gerber's page lists two different closed lengths; confirm the size on the listing.
See options on Amazon (opens Amazon in a new tab)Questions people ask
- What is the best multitool?
- It depends on the tools you need; the Leatherman Wave Plus lists the most here (18), the Rebar adds an awl, and Gerber's Suspension-NXT has a pocket clip.
- Can I bring a multitool on a plane?
- Not one with a knife blade in carry-on; TSA lists knives as checked-bag only, sheathed or securely wrapped.
- What warranty do Leatherman and Gerber offer?
- Leatherman lists 25 years on the Wave Plus and Rebar; Gerber lists a limited lifetime warranty on the Suspension-NXT.
- Leatherman Wave Plus or Rebar?
- The Wave Plus adds scissors, bit drivers and outside-access tools; the Rebar has an awl and fixed screwdrivers instead.
Sources
- Wave Plus multi-tool, Leatherman
- Rebar multi-tool, Leatherman
- Suspension-NXT, Gerber
- What can I bring? Knives, Transportation Security Administration