Leatherman Raptor Multitool Review

Bottom Line

The Leatherman Raptor stands as the ultimate multitool for emergency professionals and medical personnel, offering an unparalleled combination of precision and functionality. Its design transcends typical multipurpose tools by focusing exclusively on critical rescue and medical intervention requirements. Engineered for swift deployment, the Raptor delivers essential capabilities without unnecessary complexity.

Slightly larger than conventional pocket multitools, the Raptor’s form factor is deliberately crafted to maximize utility in high-stakes scenarios. The medical-grade stainless steel shears represent the tool’s centerpiece—razor-sharp and powerful enough to slice through challenging materials like heavy clothing, seat belts, and medical bandages with ease.

Beyond its signature shears, the Raptor incorporates a comprehensive suite of specialized implements: needle-nose pliers, a ring cutter, strap cutter, carbon scraper, glass breaker, and oxygen tank wrench. This carefully curated toolkit transforms the device from a simple multitool into a critical lifesaving instrument for first responders, medical professionals, and emergency personnel.

While its robust construction makes it less ideal for casual pocket carrying, the Raptor truly shines when mounted on a belt or secured in a dedicated pouch. Its ergonomic design ensures comfort and immediate accessibility during intense, time-sensitive situations. Additionally, its versatility extends beyond emergency contexts, proving equally adept at tasks like gardening and fabric cutting. 

While not a catch-all multitool, the Raptor excels in its designated domain—it is a mission-critical device for professionals who require immediate, precise medical intervention tools. That said, it lacks versatility. If you’re looking for pliers or a knife blade, you might be better off with a more traditional design from our multitool gear guide.

Weight & Portability

The Raptor scissors tip the scales at 5.8 ounces – surprisingly manageable given their robust construction and specialized functionality. Our testing team found them impressively portable compared to traditional trauma shears. During a wilderness first aid training weekend, we appreciated how the folding design (just under 5 inches when closed) allowed for secure belt carry without the awkward length of standard medical scissors.

The included holster proved particularly useful during farm work scenarios as well. One tester noted how the secure attachment point prevented the Raptor from bouncing around while hustling between paddocks during an animal health check. 

Though heavier than basic options, the weight feels justified by performance advantages in demanding situations. For outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize emergency preparedness or those working around a homestead where quick cutting access might be needed, the Raptor offers specialized capability in a relatively compact package.

Ease of Use

We love the Raptor’s mechanical fluidity. Each tool deployment exhibits a remarkable smoothness underneath its robust construction, a key aspect of its specialized design for emergency and tactical use. The shears open and close with minimal resistance, allowing for quick and efficient deployment when seconds count. Each motion feels precise and deliberate, with the mechanisms engineered to provide reliable performance under pressure.

The tool transitions smoothly between its various functions, such as the strap cutter, oxygen wrench, and carbide glass breaker, ensuring you can switch tasks seamlessly without fumbling. The locking mechanism is secure yet easy to engage, adding to the tool’s intuitive handling.

Despite its rugged construction, the Raptor maintains a polished level of operation, making it as user-friendly as it is durable.

Ergonomics

The Raptor is as comfortable as it is prescriptive, crucial for a tool designed for emergency scenarios. Its grip is well-contoured and covered with a textured finish, providing a secure and comfortable hold even in high-pressure situations. The tool’s shape is tailored for precise handling, allowing you to perform tasks like cutting clothing, straps, or seatbelts (or pine boughs!) with accuracy and control.

The specialized design ensures minimal hand fatigue, even during prolonged use. Its balanced weight distribution and intuitive layout make transitions between the shears, strap cutter, and other tools natural. Leatherman paid close attention to detail with the Raptor, reinforcing its reputation as a top-tier emergency tool.

Tool Deployment

The Raptor’s tool deployment strategy reflects a purposeful design philosophy tailored for high-stakes medical environments. Medical-specific implements emerge with track star speed, allowing users to transition between critical tools with near-instantaneous precision. The shears, ring cutter, and strap cutting implements are strategically positioned for rapid access, minimizing precious seconds when you have few.

However, the tool’s specialized locking mechanism introduces a subtle complexity. Unlocking requires a more deliberate, nuanced approach compared to standard multitools—a trade-off that prioritizes secure retention over casual accessibility. Users must navigate a slightly more intricate release process, which, while mildly challenging, ensures that no tool inadvertently deploys during transportation or intense medical scenarios.

However, this intentional deployment design transforms the Raptor from a simple multitool into a precise, controlled emergency response instrument, where each implement’s emergence is calculated and purposeful.

Load Bearing Capacity

Designed for high-stress medical and rescue environments, the Raptor demonstrates exceptional load-bearing capacity. Its robust construction allows for substantial force application without concern of structural compromise, and its cutting implements can manage significant resistance across diverse materials.

The tool’s grip strength enables users to apply focused force through each component, which is engineered to withstand intense, sudden loading. The stainless steel construction brings structural integrity that inspires confidence.

Reliability emerges as the Raptor’s most impressive load-bearing characteristic. Under scenarios demanding precise, powerful interventions, the tool consistently performs without wavering, translating mechanical strength into dependable, life-critical functionality, transforming the tool into a trustworthy emergency companion.

Material Quality

The Raptor showcases exceptional build quality appropriate for its life-saving potential. Our testers subjected these shears to intensive use over six weeks, and the 420HC stainless steel construction remained flawless despite exposure to moisture and outdoor elements. The MOLLE-compatible holster withstood repeated attachment/detachment cycles without fraying or losing retention.

Testers were particularly impressed by the cutting performance after using the Raptor to process heavy canvas during campsite improvements, and the serrated edges maintained their sharpness even after cutting through thick leather scraps during a farm repair project.

Unlike disposable medical shears our team had previously used, the Raptor’s pivot point remained smooth and precisely tensioned even after exposure to dirt and debris from outdoor environments. The testing confirmed Leatherman’s reputation for creating professional-grade tools that perform reliably when it matters most.

Should You Buy the Leatherman Raptor?

The Leatherman Raptor transcends traditional emergency preparedness; it’s the Swiss Army knife of critical intervention capabilities. Whether you’re a first responder, outdoor adventurer, or simply value being ready for unexpected challenges, this tool represents a comprehensive solution for potential high-stakes scenarios.

Its six meticulously designed features blend seamless functionality with compact portability. The included holster and versatile clip enable lightning-quick access, while the ingenious folding mechanism ensures a minimal footprint—ideal for tucking into a medical bag, backpack, or emergency kit without consuming precious space.

Downsides: The Raptor’s size can be in the way for some first responders, it’s expensive, and the tools can develop rust if not oiled after messy use.

What Other Multitools Should You Consider?

Not quite as sold as our gear analyst was with the Leatherman Skeletool? Check out our best multitools gear guide for more favorites. Til then, here are some other comparable options on the market as well:

Gerber Hinderer Rescue Tool Review: The Gerber Hinderer Rescue Tool is a solid alternative to the Leatherman Raptor for those seeking a multifunctional emergency tool. Designed with first responders in mind, it includes a serrated knife, strap cutter, oxygen tank wrench, and glass breaker. While it lacks dedicated shears like the Raptor, it offers a folding knife design that’s compact and easy to carry.

The build quality is robust, and its tools lock securely in place for safe operation. However, it may require two hands to deploy certain functions, making it slightly less convenient in fast-paced situations. But if you’re looking for a reliable, well-rounded emergency tool at a more affordable price point, the Hinderer is worth considering.

Benchmade 7 Hook Safety Cutter Review: Another highly specialized tool for emergency situations, the Benchmade 7 Hook Safety Cutter is compact, lightweight, and designed primarily for quick, clean cuts through straps, seatbelts, and clothing.

While it doesn’t offer the multifunctionality of the Raptor, its simplicity and focus on a single purpose make it an excellent choice for first responders who value speed and efficiency. The high-quality steel and ergonomic grip ensure precise handling, even in high-stress scenarios. However, the lack of additional tools like shears means it won’t replace a multitool like the Raptor. 

XShear Trauma Shears Review: The XShear Trauma Shears are an excellent choice for users prioritizing cutting performance. These premium shears are made from high-quality stainless steel and are designed to cut through tough materials like leather, denim, and even metal bands with ease. They feature a comfortable grip and a durable, ergonomic design, making them ideal for prolonged use in emergency settings.

While the XShear lacks the multifunctionality of the Raptor, its specialized focus on cutting makes it a reliable and robust choice for medical professionals and first responders. If you don’t need the additional features of a multitool but require heavy-duty shears with exceptional performance, the XShear is a strong contender.