Owning a Leatherman multi-tool has long been a rite of passage for many tool and outdoor enthusiasts. It’s an everyday carry kind of tool, capable of accomplishing a wide range of tasks, with several purpose-built models for specific environments. The Leatherman Signal steps up its game for the outdoor crowd with several key features that add survivability characteristics.
Let’s take a look at what the Leatherman Signal has to offer, piece by piece.
Note: Leatherman released several new Signal colorways for 2025! Click here to jump to the details.
Leatherman Signal Specifications
- Closed Length: 4.5 in (11.43 cm)
- Weight: 7.5 oz (212.6 g)
- Blade Length: 2.73 in (6.93 cm)
- Warranty: 25 years
- Price: $139.95
Leatherman Signal Pliers
The enduring characteristic of Leatherman multi-tools has always been the butterfly opening style to reveal the combination pliers. Three tools are built into the jaws, starting with needle-nose pliers. Moving further down (and assuming you have the clearance to use them) are standard gripping pliers. Finally, there are a set of cutters.
The permanent cutters that I’ve been used to on my Leatherman Super Tool (purchased way back in 2001) have been swapped out for replaceable 154CM carbide cutters on the Signal. Considering most of us have tried to cut something too hard or thick and left a nice little indentation in our cutters, that’s a great call. Now, if you go beyond the recommended wire, you can replace the cutters without replacing the tool.
Leatherman Signal Cutting Tools
Not to be left out are two of the most popular Leatherman integrated tools – the knife and saw. The knife is a partially serrated 440HC (high carbon) clip point blade that can be opened with one hand. While one-handed opening is a nice feature and works, it’s not quite as smooth as you’d expect from a standalone folding knife with a smooth bearing system.
The saw is presumably cut from the same 440HC steel as the knife, but it’s not specifically stated. Regardless, you get Leatherman’s typically excellent saw blade. Opening requires using your fingernail or another object to get into the tip groove. I’d like to see a thumb hole cut in like the knife, assuming it wouldn’t affect the strength of the saw.
Both tools lock in place with a liner lock. The knife is secured in place while the tool is opened, preventing you from intentionally or accidentally deploying the blade while in use for other applications.
Leatherman Signal Interior Tools
One of my favorite features of Leatherman multi-tools is the multi-bit driver. It has a flat head on one side, a Phillips head on the opposite, and takes up half the space to get both in there. This is a must-have on any multi-tool simply because of the number of times it saves you from having to dig through your toolbox to get one.
The bottle opener/can opener is another must-have in my opinion. With our kitchen can opener on its last breath, the Leatherman Signal has been put on KP multiple times already. Whether you need to crack open your favorite brew around the campfire or open a can for your evening rations, you’ll be glad this one made the cut.
There’s also an awl in there. Despite having a blunt edge, an awl is used for puncturing, and the integrated hole is used for threading. In particular, leather workers use an awl for making holes in their work. That may come in handy if you experience a belt or saddle failure out on the trail. It’ll work for just about any material you need to punch a hole in.
Leatherman Signal Survival and Outdoor Tools
This is where the Leatherman Signal makes its living in the outdoor community. The most prominent tool is the ferrocerium rod/safety whistle combination. I have found that the saw blade produces the best results in getting a solid spray of sparks.
For both the whistle and ferro rod, true survival planners will want to consider these as a backup. There are simply better stand-alone options out there. However, in the event that you need it, it’s absolutely capable of getting the job done. This tool is also replaceable should you wear down the rod or lose it.
Opposite the ferro rod/whistle is a knife sharpener. Again, you’ll want to consider this a backup option over a good handheld sharpener. When you’re out in the woods and realize your knife edge is dull or damaged, you’ll be able to work out an acceptable edge until you can get it back to your main sharpener.
Finally, we reach the hammer. This is one of my favorite features. When you don’t have a hammer and need one, the options are pretty limited, and none of them are pretty. Tent stakes are a no-brainer for this tool, among other uses. A traditional hammer is still going to be more effective, but this works great as a backup plan.
Carrying and Storage
You have several carry options with the Leatherman Signal. There’s a belt clip, but because of the Signal’s weight, it’s a bit less comfortable to use. It’s not bad at all for a multi-tool, but EDC knife carriers will notice the weight difference.
I prefer using the carabiner to clip it on my belt loop or backpack. There’s also a nylon sheath included to protect your tool while it’s not in use.
Some Signal users have noted that the tool doesn’t stay closed when using the carabiner. However, if you look closely where the hammer and knife sides meet, there is a tab that is used to lock the tool closed. It’s easy to miss, but helpful to know!
New Colorways
Along with the standard stainless steel colorways, Leatherman has released several new styles for 2025. The Tundrascape, Mesa Verde, Sante Fe, and Nocturnal colorways are coated in a Cerakote finish for added durability and scratch resistance.
The new styles offer a pop of color while including all of the same tools we went over above.
Note that the Nocturnal and Santa Fe colorways are available exclusively on Leatherman’s website and at REI.
Leatherman Signal Price
This multi-tool retails for $139.95, and you can find it on Amazon, REI, or directly through Leatherman. It’s available in a variety of colorways, including the four latest Cerakote finishes: Tundrascape, Mesa Verde, Sante Fe, and Nocturnal. Leatherman backs your purchase with a 25-year warranty.
Final Thoughts
As an all-encompassing outdoor tool, the Leatherman Signal carries the most useful tools we’re used to seeing from Leatherman. The survival tools included are great backups to supplement what you’re already carrying. What I like most about the Signal is that when you’re not in a situation where you’re planning to need a fire or signal for help, you have a pair of tools on board to prepare for the unexpected.
