Quick Facts
- Best Overall: The Leatherman Wave+ remains the industry benchmark, balancing 18 essential tools with legendary durability.
- Best for Survival: The Leatherman Signal features specialized outdoor survival components like a ferrocerium rod and emergency whistle.
- Best for Camping: The Gerber Stakeout Spark is purpose-built for the campground with its integrated tent stake puller and fire starter.
- The 2025 Standard: Our testing framework prioritizes Utility and Fit & Finish as 60% of the total score, moving away from "lightweight" gimmicks toward heavy-duty reliability.
Introduction: Why a Multitool is Your Most Important Trail Companion
You never realize how much you need a multitool until you’re three miles deep into a trail and your camp stove’s fuel line starts acting up, or a loose screw on your trekking pole threatens to end your day early. I’ve been there—fumbling with a jammed zipper in the rain or trying to pry a stubborn tent stake out of frozen ground with my bare hands. In the backcountry, your gear is your lifeline, and a multitool is the "toolbox-in-pocket" philosophy personified.
The shift we’re seeing in 2025 is a move toward precision engineering over sheer bulk. We aren't just looking for more tools; we’re looking for better tools. After putting dozens of models through the wringer this season, three standouts have defined the market. The Leatherman Wave+ is the best overall multitool for its sheer versatility; the Leatherman Signal is the undisputed king of survival gear; and for those who spend their time strictly at the campsite, the Gerber Stakeout Spark offers ingenious camping-specific utility.
2025 Testing Framework: How We Rated These Tools
To cut through the marketing noise, we developed a rigorous 2025 testing framework. We don’t just open the pliers and call it a day; we subject these tools to real-world stress tests. We torqued screws into hardwood, cut through climbing rope, and spent weeks "deploying" blades with gloved hands to test ergonomics.
Our scoring is weighted: Tool Utility and Fit & Finish account for 60% of the total score. We believe that a tool you can’t rely on under pressure is just dead weight. This year, we analyzed 22 top models, evaluating everything from the heat treatment of the steel to the retention of the pocket clips. In the current market, Leatherman models account for approximately 71% of top-tier expert recommendations, a testament to their "Legacy Factor" and consistent manufacturing standards.
Comparison Table: Top Picks at a Glance
| Model | Weight (oz) | Tool Count | Key Feature | Price Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leatherman Wave+ | 8.5 oz | 18 | All-locking blades | Premium |
| Leatherman Signal | 7.5 oz | 19 | Ferro rod & Whistle | High-End |
| Gerber Stakeout Spark | 3.32 oz | 11 | Tent stake puller | Mid-Range |
| Leatherman Arc | 8.6 oz | 20 | MagnaCut Steel | Ultra-Premium |
| Skeletool CX | 5.0 oz | 7 | 154CM Blade Steel | Mid-Range |
The Best Overall: Leatherman Wave+
If there is one tool that defines the category, it’s the Leatherman Wave+. Even in 2025, it remains the "gold standard" for outdoor enthusiasts. I’ve carried a Wave+ through the humid thickets of the Appalachians and the dry heat of the Desert Southwest, and it has never let me down. Its 18 essential tools are accessible, and the 420HC steel construction provides a perfect balance of edge retention and corrosion resistance.
What sets the Wave+ apart is the "Fit & Finish." When you’re cranking on a stubborn nut, you need a tool that won't flex or bite into your palm. The rounded handles make it incredibly comfortable for high-torque tasks. A personal pro tip: the precision eyeglass screwdriver is often overlooked, but it’s a lifesaver for tightening the tiny screws on your sunglasses or performing delicate gear maintenance on GPS units.
PROS:
- Legendary 25-year warranty.
- Outside-accessible blades for one-handed deployment.
- Exceptional plier strength with replaceable wire cutters.
CONS:
- Slightly heavier than minimalist "backpacking" tools.
- Requires two hands for some internal tools.
The Survival Specialist: Leatherman Signal
When you trade the manicured campsite for a solo expedition into the deep woods, your priorities shift. You need the Leatherman Signal. This isn't just a multitool; it’s a survival kit that happens to have pliers. The Signal incorporates features you won't find on standard models: a ferrocerium fire-starting rod, an emergency whistle, and a diamond-coated sharpener for field maintenance.
During a recent trip where my primary lighter failed, the Signal’s ferro rod allowed me to throw sparks into a bundle of dry tinder, proving its worth in seconds. The hammer surface on the butt of the tool is perfect for tapping in stakes or crushing walnuts, and the carabiner clip makes it easy to snap onto a pack strap for immediate access. It is the definitive choice for those who prioritize preparedness over everything else.
PROS:
- Integrated survival tools (fire, signal, sharpening).
- One-handed opening for the main blade.
- Vibrant color options for high visibility if dropped.
CONS:
- The ferro rod and sharpener are small and can be lost if not secured.
- Less "refined" feel than the Wave+ for everyday tasks.
The Camping Specialist: Gerber Stakeout Spark
The Gerber Stakeout Spark is a refreshing departure from traditional "toolbox" designs. It recognizes that campers spend more time setting up tents and prepping food than they do fixing heavy machinery. The standout feature here is the built-in tent stake puller—a tool I didn't know I needed until I was trying to break camp on packed, sun-baked earth. It saves your fingers and your sanity.
At just over 3 ounces, it’s a dream for backpackers who want utility without the weight penalty. The inclusion of a fire starter rod and a dedicated saw makes it a formidable companion for light bushcraft. While it lacks the heavy-duty pliers of a Leatherman, its specialized tools make it the most recommended multitool for camping specifically in the 2025 market.
PROS:
- Ultralight design (3.32 oz).
- Scissor quality is excellent for cutting moleskin or tape.
- Dedicated tent stake puller is a game-changer.
CONS:
- The blade steel is lower grade than premium competitors.
- Not designed for heavy prying or high-torque mechanical work.
The Premium Choice: Leatherman Arc vs. Wave+
For those who want the absolute peak of 2025 engineering, the Leatherman Arc is the new heavyweight contender. The major talking point here is the MagnaCut revolution. MagnaCut is a "super steel" that offers a level of toughness and corrosion resistance previously unheard of in the multitool world.
The Arc also utilizes Leatherman’s "FREE" technology, which uses magnets to allow for buttery-smooth, one-handed deployment of every single tool. Compare this to the Wave+, which requires fingernail nicks for its internal components. Is the $250 price tag worth the upgrade? If you’re a gear junkie who demands the best blade steel on the market and values the ease of one-handed use, the answer is a resounding yes. However, for 90% of campers, the Wave+ provides the same essential utility at nearly half the cost.
Budget Picks: Best Value Without the Weight
You don't always need to drop $150 to get a quality tool. For the minimalist, the Leatherman Skeletool CX is a masterpiece of "less is more." Weighing in at only 5oz, it gives you the four things you actually use: a great blade (154CM steel), pliers, a bit driver, and a bottle opener. It’s the perfect "pocket-clip" carry for a weekend hike.
If you’re looking for a "just in case" tool for the glovebox or a backup bag, the Harbor Freight Gordon 20-in-1 has caused a stir in 2025. For roughly $40, it mimics the form factor of premium tools with surprisingly decent build quality.
While it lacks the refined heat treatment and the 25-year peace of mind you get with a brand like Leatherman, it’s a capable alternative for the budget-conscious camper. Just don't expect it to survive a decade of heavy abuse like its more expensive cousins.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose Your Multitool
Choosing a tool is about matching the "Hierarchy of Use" to your specific activities. Don't buy a tool for the tasks you might do; buy it for the tasks you actually do.
Materials: 420HC vs. S30V vs. MagnaCut
Most entry-level tools use 420HC, which is easy to sharpen and very rust-resistant. S30V (found in the Charge+) holds an edge longer but is harder to sharpen in the field. MagnaCut is the new king of 2025, offering the best of both worlds—unrivaled toughness and edge retention—but it comes at a premium price.
Carry Options
Consider how you will carry the tool. A heavy tool like the Wave+ or Arc belongs in a sheath on your belt or in your pack. A lighter tool like the Skeletool or Signal works best with a pocket clip for quick deployment.
The Warranty Factor
This is where brands like Leatherman and Gerber truly shine. A 25-year warranty isn't just a marketing slogan; it’s a promise of durability. I’ve sent tools in that were decades old and had them returned fully refurbished or replaced. That "Legacy Factor" is why these brands dominate our recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are multitools TSA approved? Generally, no. Any multitool with a blade is prohibited in carry-on luggage. There are "TSA-approved" models without blades, but even then, it’s up to the discretion of the agent. My advice: always check it in your luggage.
How do I maintain my tool to prevent rust? Even stainless steel can rust in salty or humid environments. Keep your tool clean and dry. Every few months, apply a drop of light mineral oil to the pivot points. If you’ve been near saltwater, rinse the tool in fresh water and dry it immediately.
Which tool has the best scissors for camp prep? For small, precise tasks like cutting moleskin, the scissors on the Leatherman Surge or the Gerber Stakeout are top-tier. The Wave+ scissors are good, but they are smaller and located internally.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the "best" multitool is the one you actually have on you when things go sideways. If you want a tool that can do it all and last a lifetime, grab the Leatherman Wave+. If you’re heading into the deep backcountry where fire and signaling are paramount, the Leatherman Signal is your best bet. And for the casual camper who just wants to make camp life easier, the Gerber Stakeout Spark is a brilliant, lightweight addition to your kit.
Whatever you choose, make sure you practice with it before you hit the trail. Learn the layout, test the blades, and get comfortable with the weight. A multitool is more than just a piece of metal—it's your first line of defense against the unexpected.
Editor's Note: Ready to upgrade your gear? Check out our latest reviews on the [Best Ultralight Tents of 2025] or see our [Complete Survival Kit Guide]. Safe travels, and I’ll see you on the trail
