Debating between the Leatherman and the Swiss Army knife? Both classic brands feature a storied history and a distinct look that men have been turning to for reliable pocket tools for decades.
A cultural icon dating back to 1897, the Swiss Army knife has been synonymous with “pocket knife” since World War II. While they come in a variety of sizes, they are generally pocket-size, and usually have a drop-point blade and a variety of useful tools such as a file, screwdrivers, and scissors.
My first pocket knife was Swiss Army (I think I was 8) and it had six tools. Blade, file, scissors, tweezers, toothpick, and keyring. Popular models can include anywhere from 11-32 tools.
A slightly younger company, Leatherman got their start in the early 80s. While also available in a variety of sizes, Leatherman multi-tools tend to feature a larger profile, and more implements. What it may lack it portability it more than makes up in heft, with most models offering up full-size pliers, a large blade, and a variety of additional tools. Most Leatherman pack anywhere from 10-20 tools on board.
Swiss Army Knife vs Leatherman Multi-Tools: An Overview
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Leatherman Vs Swiss Army Knife: What’s the Difference?
Leatherman or Swiss Army knife, both have a lot of great features and a unique look distinct to their brand.
Profile – Swiss Army Knives have a traditional pocket knife shape and design, with all tools being equally accessible on most models. Leatherman are typically built around a full-size set of pliers, and most tools unfold from there. Aside than the knife, which is usually quick-access without unfolding the pliers.
Weight – Being made of solid stainless steel, the Leatherman will most likely weigh more than a Swiss Army knife of about the same size.
Tool Size – Tools will generally be smaller on the Swiss Army knife, but there are usually more of them. Swiss Army knives have some useful removable tools, tweezers, toothpick, and sometimes a straight pin or ballpoint pen depending on the model.
The Blade – Now here’s an important. The Leatherman will typically have a locking blade, where the Swiss Army knife will not, so if that’s important to you, consider the Leatherman.
Carry method – While a Swiss Army knife will (most of the time) fit in your pocket, Leatherman tools tend to be heavier and bulkier, making them better suited to a belt clip, holster, or sheath.
What is the right choice? Leatherman or Swiss Army Knife?
The right choice Leatherman vs Swiss Army knife is a tough call, as they’re both solid performers. I recommend looking at a variety of options and choosing based on the tools and form factor you think you’ll benefit from the most.
If you’re gift hunting, think about the kinds of things your loved one might encounter in the wild. Will they need a pen? A magnifying glass? Do they use pliers a lot? Will they benefit from a locking blade?
Looking for comparable models? Consider the Swiss Army Champ and the Leatherman Wave, two popular baseline options with a bevy of features and a reliable build.
FAQs
1. Are Leatherman Multi-tools and Swiss Army Knives basically the same thing?
No! Swiss Army knives and Leatherman tools, while fulfilling similar roles, are quite different.
Handle material is an important distinction. Swiss Army knives most commonly use plastic or polyamide, while Leatherman are made of solid stainless steel. With some exceptions… There are wood-handled Swiss Army knives, and aluminum-handled Leatherman that break these traditions.
As noted above, Swiss Army knives tend to have a smaller, more pocket-ready size. While most Leatherman will fit comfortably in your pocket, you (generally) won’t forget it’s there.
Where are they made? Swiss Army knives are built in Ibach, Switzerland by Victorinox, while Leatherman are manufactured in the USA in Portland, Oregon.
2. What is so special about a Swiss Army Knife?
Swiss Army Knives boast a stories history dating to 1897, seeing heavy use in both world words, ascending in popularity during World War II and maintaining a renowned reputation for high quality ever since.
Swiss Army knives pack a variety of tools into a slim and lightweight package, insuring you don’t need to take the toolbox with you to have all your tools. Different models come with different tools— everything from Allen keys to magnifying glasses and more— so you can pick the ones that best fit your needs.
3. Which multi-tool is more versatile, Leatherman or Swiss Army?
The truth is, both are pretty versatile in different ways. Swiss Army knives tend to come with more tools, across a wider variety. This means that some obscure functions and jobs are better handled by the Swiss wonder.
That being said, Leatherman excels at specializing. While on average they have less tools on deck, what they do have tends to be larger, more robust, and easier to use. While I might prefer the Swiss Army knife in my pocket, I’ll take the full-size pliers of the Leatherman any day to the much smaller ones you’ll find on some Swiss Army knives.
In general Swiss Army knives tend to have more utility in camping situations, and Leatherman leans more toward being a handyman’s best friend, but both have more than enough versatility to justify an EDC.
4. Which one has better quality and durability, Leatherman or Swiss Army Knife?
When it comes to quality, both brands have a storied history and can be relied upon when it counts. At the end of the day, it all comes down to what you need to get the job (or jobs) done. Check out the tools and features for comparable models and go from there.
And really, it’s hard to go wrong with both. I like to keep a smaller knife in my pocket for everyday use, and a multitool in my backpack for when I need something a little beefier. These pioneers in pocket tool manufacturing are both worthy of your time and valuable pocket space.
