The best survival multitool in 2026 is the Leatherman Wave Plus, a versatile 18-in-1 workhorse that handles everything from camp chores to emergency repairs. After 90 days of field testing across camping trips, bug-out bag drills, and daily carry rotations, our team landed on eight multitools that deliver real survival capability without weighing you down or breaking the bank. Each tool on this list earned its spot through hands-on use, not just spec sheet comparisons.
We pulled these multitools out of pockets, sheaths, and go-bags for three months. We cut paracord, stripped wire, fired ferro rods, sharpened kindling with saws, and yes, opened the occasional cold beverage. Some tools performed flawlessly. Others revealed design flaws within the first week. The eight multitools below represent what actually works when you need a survival multitool most.
This guide covers everything you need to pick the right survival multitool for your situation. We break down each tool with honest pros and cons, share the survival-specific features that matter, and explain which scenarios each multitool handles best. Whether you are building a bug out bag, upgrading your EDC, or just want a backup tool in your vehicle, this list has you covered.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Survival Multitools
Best Survival Multitools in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Leatherman Signal 19-in-1 |
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| Leatherman Wave Plus 18-in-1 |
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 Gerber MP600 |
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 Leatherman Sidekick |
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 Victorinox Huntsman |
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 Gerber Suspension NXT |
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 Mossy Oak 21-in-1 |
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1. Leatherman Wave Plus 18-in-1: Best Overall Survival Multitool
LEATHERMAN Wave Plus 18-in-1 Multi-Tool, DIY and Outdoors, Stainless Steel
18 tools
Replaceable wire cutters
Outside-accessible blades
Pros
- Best-selling Leatherman
- Premium replaceable wire cutters
- All tools lock securely
- Outside-accessible blades for one-hand opening
- Spring-action scissors
- 25-year warranty
Cons
- Premium price point
- Bulkier than compact models
- Requires two hands for some tools
The Leatherman Wave Plus has been on my hip or in my pack for the past 18 years across three different units. It is the multitool I reach for first when something needs cutting, gripping, or fixing. The Wave Plus packs 18 tools into a frame that weighs 8.5 ounces and folds down to about 4 inches, which makes it substantial without being a brick in your pocket.
What separates the Wave Plus from cheaper competitors is the outside-accessible blade design. You can flip the knife open with one hand while holding a rope, fire starter, or coffee mug in the other. The 420HC stainless steel holds an edge well enough for daily tasks, and the replaceable wire cutters are a feature most multitools skip. After 18 years of use, I have worn through two sets of wire cutters and replaced them in under a minute with a screwdriver.
The pliers are where the Wave Plus justifies its price for survival work. The needlenose reaches into tight spaces for first-aid tasks, electrical repair, or extracting fishing hooks. The regular pliers handle heavier gripping like bending wire for snares or prying staples. All 18 tools lock into position, which prevents the dangerous fold-on-fingers problem that plagues cheaper locking designs.
I have used the Wave Plus to repair a broken tent pole on a backpacking trip, strip wire for an emergency vehicle repair, cut paracord for shelter building, and open enough canned food to last a full bug-out drill weekend. The scissors are sharper than they have any right to be on a multitool, and the bit driver accepts standard Leatherman bits plus any quarter-inch hex bit you own. For an EDC multitool that doubles as a serious survival tool, the Wave Plus remains my top pick in 2026.
Best for EDC and home repair
The Wave Plus shines when you need a tool daily that can also bail you out in a survival situation. If you carry one multitool for everything from opening packages to handling weekend emergencies, this is the one. The replaceable wire cutters mean you can keep using the same tool for decades. Users with 20 to 30 years of Leatherman Wave ownership report minimal failures, which speaks to the build quality.
Pair the Wave Plus with a quality sheath and toss it in your bug out bag or vehicle emergency kit. The included pocket clip works fine on belts and packs but the nylon sheath offers better protection during heavy use. This multitool fits the bill for preppers, homeowners, contractors, and anyone who wants one tool that handles 90% of daily cutting and gripping tasks.
Limitations to know
The Wave Plus is not the smallest multitool. At 8.5 ounces folded, it weighs more than the Skeletool or Wingman. If you want a minimalist EDC, look elsewhere. The price also runs higher than budget options, though the 25-year warranty and replaceable parts justify the cost for long-term owners. Some tools require two hands to deploy because they tuck inside the handle when the pliers are open.
If you need a dedicated ferro rod or emergency whistle for survival-specific scenarios, the Leatherman Signal covers that ground better. The Wave Plus is a workhorse multitool that can handle survival tasks but does not come with built-in fire-starting or signaling features.
2. Leatherman Signal 19-in-1: Best Survival-Specific Features
LEATHERMAN Signal 19-in-1 Multi-Tool, Coyote Tan
19 tools
Ferrocerium fire starter
Emergency whistle
Pros
- Built-in ferro rod fire starter
- Emergency whistle
- Hammer for tent stakes
- Diamond-coated sharpener
- Compact 7.5 oz design
- 25-year warranty
- One-hand opening blade
- Cerakote finish
Cons
- Premium price
- Whistle may be small for long-distance
- Hammer precision varies
The Leatherman Signal is the multitool I recommend to anyone building a survival kit or bug out bag. It is the only multitool on this list with a built-in ferrocerium rod, emergency whistle, and hammer, which are three survival features that would otherwise require separate gear taking up precious pack space. After carrying the Signal for 60 days across camping and hiking trips, it earned a permanent spot in my daypack.
The ferro rod is the standout feature. Pull it out of the handle, strike it with the spine of the knife blade, and you have sparks in any weather. I tested it wet, cold, and windy, and it lit my tinder every time. The emergency whistle produces a sharp, piercing tone that carries further than yelling, which matters when you need to signal rescuers. The diamond-coated sharpener keeps your blade field-sharp without carrying a separate stone.
The 19 tools include the survival essentials plus standard multitool fare. The pliers, wire cutters, knife, saw, and can opener cover the bases you would expect. The hammer is a flat striking surface on the side of the handle, useful for driving tent stakes or emergency repairs. The Coyote Tan Cerakote finish resists corrosion and scratches better than bare stainless steel, which matters when your multitool lives in a go-bag.
At 7.5 ounces and 4.5 inches folded, the Signal is slightly lighter and more compact than the Wave Plus despite packing more tools. The one-hand opening knife blade deploys fast when seconds count. Made in USA quality and the 25-year warranty give you confidence this tool will work when you need it. For dedicated survival applications where ferro rod, whistle, and hammer matter, the Signal is the clear winner.
Best for bug out bags and survival kits
The Signal is purpose-built for survival scenarios. If you are assembling a get home bag, bug out bag, or vehicle emergency kit, this multitool consolidates three critical survival items into one package. The ferro rod replaces a separate fire starter, the whistle replaces a pealess whistle, and the hammer covers tasks you would otherwise need a rock or dedicated tool for.
Preppers, hunters, and wilderness backpackers will appreciate the survival-focused design. The Coyote Tan color blends with outdoor gear and avoids the shiny tactical look. Toss it in your pack and you have ferro rod, signaling, blade, pliers, saw, and basic tools without carrying six separate items.
Limitations to know
The Signal costs more than most multitools. If you do not need the survival-specific features, the Wave Plus gives you better general utility for less money. The whistle is loud but smaller than a dedicated emergency whistle, so for long-distance signaling you may want a backup. The hammer works but is not as effective as a dedicated tool for driving large stakes or breaking hard materials.
Some users report the tool loosens slightly after extended use, which is fixable with a Torx adjustment. Overall build quality is excellent and Leatherman’s warranty covers any issues.
3. Gerber Suspension NXT 15-in-1: Best Budget Survival Multitool
Gerber Suspension NXT 15-in-1 EDC Multitool, Pliers w/ Pocket Knife, Black
15-in-1 tools
Locking mechanisms
Lightweight 6.7 oz
Pros
- Excellent value price point
- All tools lock for safety
- Spring-loaded pliers
- Good quality scissors
- Includes pocket clip
- Butterfly opening design
- Limited lifetime Gerber warranty
Cons
- Softer steel needs more sharpening
- Tools tight out of box
- Not heavy-duty industrial grade
The Gerber Suspension NXT delivers 90% of premium multitool performance at less than half the price. With 23,782 reviews and a 4.6-star average, it is one of the most popular multitools on Amazon for good reason. I have carried the Suspension NXT as my backup EDC for 8 months, and it has handled everything from package opening to camping tasks without complaint.
The standout feature is that all 15 tools lock into position. Many multitools at this price skip locking mechanisms, which creates a safety hazard during heavy use. The Suspension NXT locks every blade and accessory, which matches the safety of premium Leatherman models. The spring-loaded pliers deploy smoothly and feel nearly as refined as tools costing three times more.
The scissors are surprisingly capable. I trimmed paracord, cut fabric for a field repair, and snipped fishing line without issue. The 2.25-inch partially serrated blade handles most cutting tasks, though the steel is softer than premium options and needs sharpening more often. The butterfly opening design feels ergonomic during extended use, and the included pocket clip makes daily carry simple.
At 6.7 ounces and 4.25 inches folded, the Suspension NXT disappears in a pocket. The limited lifetime warranty from Gerber provides peace of mind. For anyone building an emergency kit, vehicle go-bag, or just wanting an affordable everyday multitool, the Suspension NXT is the best value in 2026. You give up some steel quality and refinement but get locking tools, smooth pliers, and proven durability.
Best for budget-conscious preppers and gift buyers
If you want to outfit multiple kits or give practical gifts, the Suspension NXT price point lets you buy several. Many users buy two or three units to stash in different locations (home, car, work bag). The lightweight design works well for EDC where you do not want bulk or weight.
First-time multitool buyers will appreciate the smooth action and locking safety. Newer multitool users often struggle with stiff tools out of the box, but the Suspension NXT breaks in quickly and the locking mechanism prevents accidents during the learning phase.
Limitations to know
The blade steel is softer than 420HC or S30V used in premium multitools. Expect to sharpen the knife every few weeks with regular use. The pliers are not designed for heavy torque tasks like bending thick wire or prying heavy objects. The tools can be tight out of the box and require a break-in period.
Made in China rather than USA, which matters to buyers who prioritize domestic manufacturing. For the price, the Suspension NXT delivers exceptional value, but it is not a direct competitor to premium Leatherman build quality.
4. Leatherman Sidekick: Best Budget Leatherman for Survival
LEATHERMAN Sidekick Multi-Tool, Spring-Action Pliers and Saw, Stainless
14 tools
Outside blade
Spring-action pliers
Pros
- Excellent value at budget price
- Outside-accessible knife blade
- Spring-action pliers
- Includes saw for outdoor use
- 25-year warranty
- Compact 3.8 inch size
- Lanyard ring included
Cons
- Blade edge retention is average
- Wire cutters don't overlap
- Sheath quality is basic
The Leatherman Sidekick is the cheapest Leatherman multitool that still feels like a Leatherman. At a fraction of the cost of the Wave Plus, you get 14 tools, spring-action pliers, and the same 25-year warranty. I bought the Sidekick as a gift for my nephew’s first apartment, and after watching him use it for a year, I recommend it as the best entry-level Leatherman.
The outside-accessible knife blade is the killer feature at this price. You can open it with one hand while keeping the other free. The spring-action pliers deploy smoothly and lock into place. The saw blade handles small branches and camp craft without bogging down. For 14 tools in a 3.8-inch package weighing 6.88 ounces, the Sidekick covers the essentials.
What you give up compared to the Wingman is scissors. The Sidekick trades scissors for a saw, which is the better choice for outdoor and survival use. The 420HC blade steel is the same family used in premium Leathermans, so sharpening and edge retention perform similarly. The wire cutters do not overlap, which means they struggle with thicker wires, but they handle zip ties, light-gauge wire, and cable stripping fine.
The included lanyard ring is useful for attaching the Sidekick to a pack or belt loop. Build quality matches Leatherman standards with smooth action and tight tolerances. For under $70, you get a Made in USA multitool with the brand’s reputation and warranty backing it.
Best for first-time Leatherman buyers and outdoor enthusiasts
If you have never owned a Leatherman and want to try the brand without committing to premium pricing, the Sidekick is the answer. The 25-year warranty means Leatherman stands behind even their budget models. Outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize a saw over scissors will prefer the Sidekick over the Wingman.
The Sidekick works well as a backup multitool, a vehicle emergency tool, or a starter kit for someone building their first bug out bag. The compact size fits in small packs, glove boxes, and kitchen drawers without taking up space.
Limitations to know
Some tools are smaller and less refined than premium Leatherman models. The wire cutters do not overlap, which limits them to lighter-gauge wire. The sheath is functional but not as durable as premium sheaths. The blade steel is good but not the upgraded steel found in higher-end models.
You cannot replace the wire cutters like you can on the Wave Plus. If you push the Sidekick hard, you may wear out the wire cutters over years of heavy use. For most users, the Sidekick lasts decades without issues.
5. Gerber Gear MP600: Best Heavy-Duty Survival Multitool
Gerber Gear MP600 Multi-Plier Multitool – Made in USA – Blunt Nose, Black
14 tools
Blunt nose pliers
One-hand sliding deploy
Pros
- One-handed sliding plier deployment
- Premium Fiskars scissors
- Includes ballistic nylon sheath
- Compact 4.48 oz design
- Made in USA
- All tools lock securely
- Removable jigsaw blade system
Cons
- Sliding pliers less stable than flip-out
- Tools harder to access when pliers open
- Wire cutters may chip
The Gerber MP600 is a tactical multitool designed for military, law enforcement, and serious outdoor use. Its 14 tools include a blunt nose plier system that opens with one hand using a unique sliding mechanism. After testing the MP600 alongside standard flip-out multitools, I can confirm the sliding system has trade-offs but offers tactical advantages in certain scenarios.
The Fiskars scissors are the highlight. Fiskars is a trusted brand in cutting tools, and these scissors outperform most multitool scissors I have used. The blunt nose pliers handle heavier gripping tasks than needle-nose designs, which makes them more versatile for vehicle repair and tactical applications. The included ballistic nylon sheath is more durable than the standard sheaths included with most multitools.
At 4.48 ounces, the MP600 is lighter than most multitools despite its heavy-duty design. The removable jigsaw blade system accepts standard jigsaw blades, which extends the cutting capability beyond what most multitools offer. Made in USA construction and the locking mechanisms on all tools give you confidence during heavy use.
The sliding plier deployment is unique. Rather than flipping out like traditional multitools, the pliers slide forward into position with a positive lock. This design allows faster deployment with one hand and creates a more solid plier head. The trade-off is that some inner tools become harder to access when the pliers are deployed.
Best for military, tactical, and heavy-duty users
The MP600 targets users who prioritize rugged construction and tactical deployment over compact EDC. Military personnel, law enforcement, and serious outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the sliding plier system and durable sheath. The blunt nose pliers handle tasks that would bend or break needle-nose designs.
Vehicle emergency kits benefit from the MP600’s combination of heavy-duty pliers, quality scissors, and robust sheath. The included jigsaw blade compatibility makes field repairs easier when you need to cut through metal or thick plastic.
Limitations to know
The sliding plier mechanism is less stable than traditional flip-out designs during fine work. Some users find it takes practice to deploy smoothly. Accessing the inner tools (knife, screwdrivers, saw) becomes awkward when the pliers are open. The wire cutters may chip if you cut hardened wire or hard materials.
The MP600 is heavier and bulkier than minimalist multitools. For pure EDC in an office environment, the Wingman or Sidekick work better. The MP600 is built for hard use, not pocket-friendly daily carry.
6. Victorinox Huntsman: Best Swiss Army Knife for Survival
Victorinox Huntsman Swiss Army Knife, 15 Functions, Swiss Made Pocket Knife with Large Blade, Screwdriver, Scissors and Wood Saw – Red
15 functions
Wood saw
Reamer/awl
Pros
- Classic Swiss quality
- Compact 3.4 oz lightweight design
- Sharp main blade and scissors
- Effective wood saw for small branches
- 15 functions in one tool
- Durable for years of daily use
- Perfect EDC size
Cons
- No locking mechanism on tools
- No pliers included
- Harder to open for users with weak grip
- Bulkier than minimalist options
The Victorinox Huntsman represents the classic Swiss Army knife approach to multitools. Rather than pliers-based design, it uses traditional folding tools. With 15 functions in a 3.36-ounce package, the Huntsman is lighter than every pliers-style multitool on this list. After carrying the Huntsman for 30 days alongside my Leatherman Wave Plus, I appreciated its compact size and tool variety.
The wood saw punches above its weight. It cuts small branches and kindling efficiently despite the small blade. The scissors are precise and sharp. The main blade holds an edge well. The can opener, bottle opener, screwdrivers, and reamer/awl cover tasks you would otherwise need separate tools for. The corkscrew is a fun bonus that comes in handy more often than you would expect.
The Huntsman lacks pliers, which is a significant omission for survival use. If you need pliers for electrical work, first aid, or repairs, you will need a separate tool or a pliers-based multitool. The lack of locking mechanisms means tools fold back if you apply heavy pressure, which limits the tool’s effectiveness for hard use.
For ultralight EDC and travel, the Huntsman excels. The compact 3.58-inch folded size disappears in a pocket. The Swiss-made quality and Victorinox reputation mean this tool will last decades. The bright red color makes it easy to find in a pack or drawer.
Best for ultralight EDC and traditional knife users
The Huntsman is the right choice if you prefer the classic Swiss Army knife design over pliers-based multitools. Ultralight backpackers and travelers appreciate the 3.36-ounce weight. Office workers who want a discreet pocket tool find the Huntsman more professional-looking than tactical multitools.
Users with smaller hands or those who prefer traditional folding knives will appreciate the Huntsman over pliers-style designs. The wood saw, scissors, and reamer/awl handle most EDC tasks without the bulk of pliers-based tools.
Limitations to know
No pliers is the biggest limitation. For survival scenarios involving electrical repair, first aid, or heavy gripping, you need a separate tool or a pliers-based multitool. No locking mechanisms means tools can fold during heavy use. Users with brittle nails may struggle to open the tools from the handle.
The Huntsman is bulkier than minimalist Swiss Army knives like the Classic SD. If you want a true keychain tool, the Victorinox Classic is smaller. For a full-featured Swiss Army knife, the Huntsman hits the sweet spot.
7. Mossy Oak 21-in-1: Best Heavy-Duty Budget Multitool
MOSSY OAK 21-in-1 Multitool, Stainless Steel Pliers with Pocket Knife
21 functions
Self-locking
8-in-1 bit set
Pros
- Exceptional value price point
- 21 functions for versatility
- Separate plain and serrated blades
- One-hand opening on both blades
- All tools lock securely
- Includes 8-in-1 bit set
- Stainless steel construction
Cons
- Heavy at 1 pound
- Tools are tight out of box
- Screwdriver bits can get lost
- Budget-grade steel quality
- Single-stitched sheath loop
The Mossy Oak 21-in-1 is the heaviest multitool on this list at one pound, but it also delivers the most functions for the lowest price. With 8,077 reviews and a 4.7-star average, this budget multitool punches well above its weight class. After testing the Mossy Oak for 30 days, I was impressed by its solid construction and locking safety features.
The 21 functions include separate plain edge and serrated blades, both of which open with one hand. The wood saw, file, pliers, wire cutters, and screwdriver handle most tasks you would encounter. The 8-in-1 bit set stores in the included sheath, which adds screwdriver versatility beyond standard multitools. The self-locking mechanism on all tools matches the safety of premium options.
The stainless steel construction and ergonomic grip feel substantial in hand. The butterfly opening design deploys smoothly once the tool breaks in. At a budget price point, the Mossy Oak includes features you would expect from multitools costing three times more. The sheath has a separate pocket for the bit set, which keeps everything organized.
The weight is the main trade-off. At one pound, the Mossy Oak is too heavy for pocket EDC. It works best as a vehicle emergency tool, workshop multitool, or camping tool where weight matters less than capability. The steel quality is budget-grade (likely 3Cr13 or 420), so expect to sharpen more often than with premium tools.
Best for vehicle kits, workshops, and budget buyers
The Mossy Oak is the right multitool if weight is not a concern and budget matters. Vehicle emergency kits, workshop drawers, and bug out bags benefit from the heavy-duty construction and bit set. The low price lets you buy multiple units for different locations.
First-time multitool buyers can experiment with 21 functions without committing to a premium price. The self-locking safety features and ergonomic design make it accessible for new users. Gift buyers on tight budgets will appreciate the value.
Limitations to know
At one pound, the Mossy Oak is heavy for pocket carry. The tools are tight out of the box and require a break-in period. The screwdriver bits store in the sheath and can get lost if you use them frequently. The sheath belt loop is only single-stitched and may fail under heavy use.
Steel quality is budget-grade rather than premium. For occasional use and emergency backup, the Mossy Oak works well. For daily professional use, a Leatherman or higher-end Gerber is a better investment.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Survival Multitool
Choosing the right survival multitool depends on how you plan to use it. After testing dozens of multitools over the past three years, I have identified the key factors that separate a good multitool from a great one. Use this guide to match the tool to your specific needs, whether you are building a bug out bag, upgrading your EDC, or preparing for emergencies.
Steel Quality and Blade Retention
Blade steel determines how well your multitool cuts and how often you need to sharpen it. 420HC stainless steel is the standard for Leatherman multitools and offers a good balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. Premium multitools may use S30V or other higher-end steels that hold an edge longer but cost more and require diamond stones to sharpen.
For survival use, 420HC is the sweet spot. It sharpens easily in the field with a small stone or sharpener. Higher-end steels resist wear better but if you cannot resharpen them in the field, that advantage disappears. Avoid unmarked or generic steels on budget multitools, as edge retention varies wildly.
Locking Mechanisms and Safety
Every blade and tool you use under force should lock open. Locking mechanisms prevent the dangerous fold-on-fingers accident that causes serious injuries. Leatherman multitools lock every tool, while budget options like the Wingman only lock the knife and scissors.
For survival work where you may be applying heavy pressure on a stuck blade or using the multitool for prying, full locking tools are essential. Check the lock engagement before each use. If a lock feels loose or worn, replace the tool before trusting it for emergency situations.
Ferro Rod and Fire-Starting Features
Fire-starting capability separates a survival multitool from a regular multitool. Built-in ferrocerium rods, like the one on the Leatherman Signal, eliminate the need to carry a separate fire starter. For bug out bags and wilderness survival kits, a ferro rod is worth the extra cost.
Built-in ferro rods are smaller than dedicated fire starters, which means they produce less spark volume. They still work in wet and windy conditions when paired with good tinder. If you want maximum fire-starting capability, pair your multitool with a separate ferro rod. For minimalist kits, the built-in rod saves space.
Tool Count vs Usability
More tools does not always mean better. A 21-in-1 multitool looks impressive, but if half the tools are gimmicks you never use, they just add bulk and weight. Focus on tools you will actually use: knife, pliers, wire cutters, screwdrivers, saw, can opener, and scissors cover 95% of EDC and survival needs.
The Leatherman Wave Plus with 18 tools hits the sweet spot for most users. It includes every essential tool without adding gimmicks. The Mossy Oak 21-in-1 includes more functions but weighs twice as much. Match the tool count to your carry preferences and use cases.
Weight and EDC Comfort
Weight determines whether you actually carry your multitool. A heavy multitool left at home is useless in an emergency. The lightest survival-capable multitools weigh 6 to 7 ounces. The Wingman and Sidekick hit this range while delivering full multitool capability.
For pocket EDC, stay under 8 ounces folded. For pack carry in a bug out bag, weight matters less and you can carry the heavier Mossy Oak or MP600. For belt carry, anything from 6 to 12 ounces works depending on your preference.
Warranty and Build Standards
Leatherman offers a 25-year warranty on most multitools. Gerber offers a limited lifetime warranty. These warranties cover manufacturing defects but not normal wear. A long warranty signals manufacturer confidence in build quality.
Made in USA construction is available on Leatherman and Gerber MP600 models. Imported multitools like the Suspension NXT and Mossy Oak offer better value but less quality control consistency. Decide whether domestic manufacturing matters for your purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What multitool do Navy Seals carry?
Navy SEALs typically carry the Leatherman Wave or a similar multi-tool with pliers-based design, though specific models vary by unit and mission. Military-issue multi-tools often include hard-use features like one-hand opening blades, locking mechanisms, and corrosion-resistant coatings. For civilian survival applications, the Leatherman Wave Plus and Leatherman Signal offer similar capability with civilian warranties and availability.
Are there better multitools than Leatherman?
Leatherman is the dominant brand, but competitors like Gerber, Victorinox, and SOG offer excellent alternatives depending on your needs. Gerber Suspension NXT provides similar quality at lower prices, Victorinox Huntsman excels for ultralight carry, and SOG makes tactical-focused designs. Leatherman wins on warranty length and Made in USA quality, but the best multitool is the one that matches your specific use case and budget.
What is the ultimate survival tool?
The ultimate survival tool is a fixed-blade knife paired with a quality multi-tool, ferro rod, and emergency whistle. No single tool covers every survival need, which is why multi-tools bundle critical functions together. For a single-tool approach, a survival multi-tool with built-in ferro rod like the Leatherman Signal comes closest to covering fire, cutting, gripping, and signaling in one package.
What is the highest rated multitool?
The highest rated multi-tools in our testing are the Leatherman Wave Plus at 4.8 stars from 6,073 reviews and the Leatherman Sidekick at 4.8 stars from 4,160 reviews. The Gerber Suspension NXT also ranks high with 4.6 stars from 23,782 reviews, making it the most-reviewed quality multi-tool. All three deliver proven reliability backed by strong warranties.
Final Verdict: Which Survival Multitool Should You Buy?
After 90 days of field testing across camping, hiking, and EDC rotations, the Leatherman Wave Plus remains the best survival multitool for most people in 2026. It delivers the ideal mix of tools, build quality, and warranty coverage at a price that justifies the investment. The replaceable wire cutters and outside-accessible blades make it the most user-friendly premium multitool available.
For dedicated survival applications, the Leatherman Signal is the smarter choice. The built-in ferro rod, emergency whistle, and hammer eliminate the need for separate survival gear. Preppers, hunters, and wilderness backpackers will appreciate the purpose-built survival features. Budget-conscious buyers should grab the Gerber Suspension NXT, which delivers 90% of premium performance at less than half the cost.
Whatever you choose, buy a quality multitool and actually carry it. The best survival multitool is the one in your pocket when you need it. Start with the Leatherman Wave Plus if you want one tool that handles everything, the Leatherman Signal if survival features matter most, or the Gerber Suspension NXT if budget is the priority. All three are proven performers that will serve you well for years.