Leatherman multi-tools have become a staple in the toolkit of outdoor enthusiasts and DIYers alike due to their unparalleled versatility and quality. Among their extensive lineup, the Leatherman Bond and Wingman stand out as two popular choices, each catering to different needs and preferences. In this article, we’ll explore the unique strengths of these models and help you decide which one is best for you.
Leatherman Bond Overview
The Leatherman Bond is kind of a throwback multitool – in a good way! It leans into a simple, classic multitool design without trying to cram in every feature under the sun. It’s lightweight, slim, and easy to carry, so it fits nicely into a pocket or bag without feeling like you’re hauling around a brick. With 14 core tools built in, it’s meant for everyday fixes, small jobs, and those “glad I had this with me” moments.
What the Leatherman Bond Does Well
The biggest win with the Bond is how easy it is to carry. Because it’s under six ounces and has a smooth, rounded design, it doesn’t dig into your hand or weigh you down. It focuses on the basics (pliers, cutters, a knife, screwdrivers, a file) so while it’s not flashy, it’s genuinely useful for everyday tasks like opening packages, tightening something loose, or cutting cord or tape. The handles are comfortable, which makes longer use feel better than you’d expect for a budget-friendly multitool.
It’s also one of the more affordable full-size options from Leatherman, so you’re getting solid build quality without paying premium prices. And if you like options, you can carry it on a lanyard or add a pocket clip for quicker access.
Leatherman Bond Tools
- 01 Needlenose Pliers
- 02 Regular Pliers
- 03 Hard-Wire Cutters
- 04 Wire Cutters
- 05 Wire Stripper
- 06 420HC Knife Blade
- 07 Awl
- 08 Can Opener
- 09 Bottle Opener
- 10 Wood/Metal File
- 11 Phillips Screwdriver
- 12 Medium Flathead Screwdriver
- 13 Small Flathead Screwdriver
- 14 Ruler (8 in / 19 cm)
Where the Leatherman Bond Falls Short
Because the Bond keeps things simple, there are a few trade-offs. None of the tools lock open, including the knife. So if you’re used to locking blades or you expect to do heavy or angled cutting, that might feel limiting. Everything is tucked inside the handles, which means you’ll have to unfold the tool to get to whatever you need, so it’s not the fastest multitool to deploy.
The Bond also skips some features that many people consider standard these days, like scissors, a saw, or a bit driver. If you’re someone who wants a multitool that can handle more specialized tasks or heavy-duty work, the Bond might feel a little underpowered.
Who the Leatherman Bond is For
The Bond makes the most sense for someone who just wants a reliable, no-drama multitool for everyday carry. It’s a great entry point for first-time multitool owners or anyone who prefers lightweight gear—think hikers, commuters, or people who just like to be prepared without carrying a bunch of extra bulk. It’s also a nice fit for places where non-locking blades are preferred or required.
Leatherman Wingman Overview
The Leatherman Wingman is a great reminder that a multitool doesn’t have to be pricey to be genuinely useful. It’s compact, budget-friendly, and loaded with practical tools you’ll actually use, making it a solid everyday companion for people who want something versatile without going overboard.
From tightening a loose screw to slicing open packages or handling quick fixes in the garage or on the trail, the Wingman feels like that handy sidekick you’re glad to have nearby. Its build and layout make it dependable for the kinds of real-world tasks most of us run into all the time.
What the Leatherman Wingman Gets Right
The big appeal of the Wingman is how well it balances performance and price. It’s durable enough to take on common day-to-day jobs including light repairs, cutting chores, and little maintenance tasks all without being bulky or intimidating.
Even better is the Leatherman Wingman is an easy tool to live with. When closed, it’s under four inches long and weighs around seven ounces, so it won’t feel like a brick in your pocket. The built-in pocket clip keeps it within reach instead of buried at the bottom of a bag. Pair that with Leatherman’s long-term warranty, and you’ve got a multitool that’s affordable, practical, and dependable enough for everyday carry, home projects, and casual weekend outings.
Leatherman Wingman Tools
- 01 Spring-action Needlenose Pliers
- 02 Spring-action Regular Pliers
- 03 Spring-action Wire Cutters
- 04 Wire Stripper
- 05 420HC Combo Knife
- 06 Spring-action Scissors
- 07 Package Opener
- 08 Ruler (1.5 in | 3.8 cm)
- 09 Can Opener
- 10 Bottle Opener
- 11 Wood/Metal File
- 12 Phillips Screwdriver
- 13 Medium Screwdriver
- 14 Small Screwdriver
Where the Leatherman Wingman Falls Short
Of course, the Wingman isn’t flawless. Some of the internal tools don’t lock open, which can make them feel a bit less secure if you’re applying a lot of force. The file is also fairly coarse, so it’s better for quick rough jobs rather than detailed finishing.
Its size lands in that middle zone—not huge, but not invisible either—so you’ll notice it in your pocket even though it’s still very portable. And because the Wingman is geared toward general tasks rather than heavy-duty professional use, it’s probably not the go-to choice for demanding jobsite work. Still, considering the price, the trade-offs are pretty reasonable for a multitool that’s this capable and easy to carry.
Who the Wingman Is Best For
The Wingman is a smart pick for anyone who wants a reliable multitool without spending premium dollars. It’s a great everyday choice for homeowners, DIY hobbyists, and anyone who likes being prepared for quick fixes, package opening, or small repairs.
Campers and casual outdoor users will also get good mileage out of the Wingman since it’s sturdy enough for basic campsite chores while still light enough to keep on you all day. And for someone just getting into multitools, the Wingman is an approachable, affordable way to get a lot of functionality without overcomplicating things.
Detailed Comparison Table
| Feature | Leatherman Bond | Leatherman Wingman |
|---|---|---|
| Tool Count | 14 | 14 |
| Weight | ~6.2 oz | ~7.0 oz |
| Closed Length | 4.0 in | 3.8 in |
| Open Length | 6.5 in | 6.0 in |
| Blade Type | Straight 420HC drop-point | 420HC combo (straight + serrated) |
| Blade Locking | No (slip joint) | Yes |
| One-Hand Blade Access | No | Yes |
| Pliers | Standard | Spring-action |
| Wire Cutters | Standard cutters | Spring-action cutters |
| File | Wood/metal | Wood/metal |
| Scissors | No | Yes |
| Awl | Yes | No |
| Package Opener | No | Yes |
| Pocket Clip | No | Yes (built-in) |
| Warranty | 25-year | 25-year |
| Engravable? | Yes! Customize here | Yes! Customize here |
Detailed Analysis
Pricing & Value
When it comes to the world of multitools, both the Leatherman Bond and Leatherman Wingman are budget-friendly options. With each offering value in different ways.
The Bond gives you a clean, classic toolset at the fair price of $60 – $85 (depending on color choices and engraved vs. not engraved.) It feels like a traditional multitool with a straightforward design without any unnecessary extras.
The Wingman has a comparable cost range of $70 – $75, with more convenience-focused features. Features including spring-action pliers, scissors, a pocket clip, and a one-hand-opening blade makes, for many, the Wingman feel like the better value, especially for everyday carry.
Size & Weight
If weight matters to you, the Bond has the edge. It’s lighter and feels easier to carry all day, whether it’s in a pocket, or in a pack. The Wingman is a little shorter when closed, so it fits nicely in the hand, but the additional features add just enough weight to be noticeable in a pocket or on the belt with its built-in clip.
If you’re going for the most lightweight option, the Bond wins. If you prefer a compact feel with more functionality built in, the Wingman makes more sense.
Plier Functionality
This is one of the biggest differences between the two.
The Bond uses standard pliers and cutters. They work well and feel controlled and deliberate, almost like a traditional shop tool. If you prefer that classic feel and don’t need to repeatedly squeeze and release the pliers, the Bond handles those tasks just fine.
The Wingman, on the other hand, uses spring-action pliers and cutters. The spring return makes a noticeable difference during repetitive tasks. It’s easier on your hands and faster to operate, especially for DIY projects, fishing, or hobby work where you’re gripping small parts frequently.
If pliers are something you’ll use often, the Wingman has the advantage.
Forum Insights & User Experiences
Feedback about the Bond tends to focus on its simplicity. People like that it’s lightweight, cleanly designed, and easy to carry without feeling bulky. The biggest wish from some users is a locking blade, which would offer a little more confidence during tougher cuts.
The Wingman gets a lot of praise for being convenient and feature-packed for the price. The spring-action pliers and scissors come up a lot as standout perks, and the built-in pocket clip makes it an easy grab-and-go tool. Some users note that it feels a bit bulkier in a pocket, but most agree it delivers a lot of functionality for the cost.
The Verdict
The Bond is best for someone who wants a simple, lightweight multitool without any extra frills. It’s a great choice if you prefer a traditional feel, want an awl, or plan to carry something all day without weighing yourself down.
The Wingman is the better pick if you want everyday convenience and a wider range of practical features. The spring-action pliers, scissors, pocket clip, and one-hand-opening blade make it a strong all-around tool for DIY projects, household use, and general everyday carry. We have found this tool to be more popular among multi-tool users.
In short:
- The Bond is the minimalist, classic option.
- The Wingman is the practical, feature-rich everyday companion.
It really comes down to whether you want simple and lightweight, or versatile and convenience-focused.
Final Thoughts
In the debate of Leatherman Bond vs. Leatherman Wingman, the right choice depends on your specific needs and interests. Whatever you decided, be sure to explore more about the customizable Leatherman Bond and the engravable Leatherman Wingman right here at Lazer Designs to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Be sure to check out all of our personalized multitools here!
