Bottom Line
The Leatherman Surge is a powerhouse multitool rightly deserving of its “jack of all trades” reputation. Known for being one of Leatherman’s most capable, versatile, and durable, the Surge packs 21 essential tools, including pliers, a knife, saw, wire cutters, screwdrivers, and a can opener. It’s built tough, with stainless steel construction that handled hard use and abuse in every demanding situation we threw at it.
One of its standout features is the one-handed operation—tools are easy to access and deploy, which is a total game-changer when you’re working with gloves or in tight spots. The full-sized pliers are robust enough for heavy-duty tasks, and the sharp, replaceable blades make quick work of cutting. Its design is comfortable to use, even for extended projects.
Drawback? It’s heavy and bulky for everyday carry, so it’s best for tool bags, vehicle kits, or work belts. While the Surge is a bit bulkier compared to smaller options on our multitool gear guide, its strength and range of features make it a go-to for adventurers, mechanics, and DIYers.
How We Tested
Over a 30-day test period, the Surge was put through the wringer in Minnesota farm environments, maintaining equipment, and the tool also traveled north, facing off against frigid temps and serving as repair chief at basecamp.
Quick Specs
Leatherman Surge
Best Function-Packed Multitool
CleverHiker Rating: 4.5/5.0
Weight: 12 oz.
Closed Length: 4.5 in.
# of Tools: 21
Functions: Needlenose Pliers, Regular Pliers, Premium Replaceable Wire Cutters, Premium Replaceable Hard-wire Cutters, Stranded-wire Cutters, Electrical Crimper, Wire Stripper, 420HC Knife, 420HC Serrated Knife, Saw, Spring-action Scissors, Awl w/ Thread Loop, Ruler (8 in | 19 cm), Can Opener, Bottle Opener, Wood/Metal File, Diamond-coated File, Blade Exchanger, Large Bit Driver, Large Screwdriver, Small Screwdriver.
Pros
- Innovative blade exchanger
- Burly durability
- Doesn't shy from tough jobs
Cons
- Too big & bulky for backpacking
- Wire cutters don't make full cuts
- Pliers aren't spring-loaded
Weight & Portability
The Leatherman Surge is a beast of a tool but surprisingly portable for its size. Weighing in at 12.5 ounces and measuring 4.5 inches when closed, it’s a bit heavier than some other options, but it’s still compact enough to carry in a bag or clip to your belt. It’s perfect for those needing something beefy and reliable without sacrificing portability.
The Surge shines with DIY projects, tent or pack repair, and general repairs around the house. While it’s a little bulkier than other tools, the heavy-duty performance packs a punch—giving you all the versatility you need without weighing you down.
Ease of Use
The Leatherman Surge impresses with smooth and intuitive action, making it just plain fun to use, whether it’s a simple electrical repair or a demanding, all-day project. The one-handed opening allows quick and effortless tool access, and each tool deploys with equal zeal. Silky hinges and a satisfying click action speak to Leatherman’s attention to detail.
Ergonomics also play a role here: the handles are comfortable, providing a solid grip without strain, even during extended use at a national forest trail camp, keeping a sputtering stove in line. The knife and blades sliced cleanly, while the saw cut through small kindling sticks without a hitch, thanks to the tool’s excellent design and sharpness.
Everything about the Surge feels polished and purposeful. The action is consistent and reliable, with no sticking or awkward movement.
Ergonomics
The Leatherman Surge scores high in comfort and ergonomics, making it one of the most user-friendly multitools on the market. Designed with extended use in mind, the handles are thoughtfully shaped to fit comfortably in your hand and minimize strain and fatigue, even during prolonged use or repetitive tasks. The contoured design allows for a secure, natural grip, whether using the pliers, cutting, or twisting screwdrivers.
Leatherman paid close attention to the balance of weight and usability here. Despite its robust, full-sized design, the tool feels well-balanced and intuitive to maneuver. Its smooth edges and thoughtfully spaced design ensured it didn’t dig into our tester’s palms during heavy use. The materials have a premium feel, with just enough texture to prevent slippage, even in wet or downright greasy conditions.
From the first use out of the box and after 60 days in the field, it is clear that Leatherman prioritized user comfort without sacrificing functionality. The handles are spaced perfectly to accommodate a variety of hand sizes, and the pliers and other tools are designed to be accessible without awkward repositioning.
Tool Deployment
The Surge shines with its tool deployment chops, offering quick, seamless access to its impressive features. The one-handed operation allows quick access, even with gloves, and intuitive mechanisms make them simple to pull out and put to work.
Whether you’re reaching for the pliers, saw, screwdriver, or blade, the action feels responsive and well-built—no sticking, no unnecessary resistance, just fluid, reliable performance. This feature was especially valuable in tight spaces, like the engine bay of a 1960s Chevy pickup that caused our tester grief. But only temporarily, as the Surge squared up to that fizzling electrical wire tangle and got the job done.
Overall, we love the Surge’s easy-access tools and simplicity.
Load Bearing Capacity
Surge really nails it with impressive load-bearing capacity, making it one of the most reliable multitools for heavy-duty tasks. Built with durability in mind, the Surge’s stainless steel construction offers incredible strength, allowing it to handle demanding jobs without buckling under pressure. We pulled wire, twisted fence bolts, clamped onto bolts with the pliers, and cut sticks for a campfire, and the Surge never missed a beat, even in the midst of near-zero temps and blowing snow.
The strong, full-sized pliers provide excellent force for gripping or bending materials, while the sharp, sturdy blade and saw can tackle tough materials without losing their edge. Every tool on the Surge is built with stability and resilience so you can trust it for everyday tasks and more intense jobs.
Leatherman designed the Surge with a focus on strength and functionality. Its ability to bear heavy loads without faltering under the demands of rigorous use instills enduring confidence. Best carried in a belt sheath, glove box, or toolbox, the Surge quickly became one of our go-to picks.
Material Quality
It’s no surprise the Surge is built tough, made with high-quality stainless steel that can handle just about anything you throw at it—cutting through thick rope, using the pliers for some heavy-duty work, or tightening screws is a breeze with this do-it-all tool.
The corrosion-resistant steel ensures it stays reliable, even in wet conditions or after prolonged exposure to the elements. With that solid, no-nonsense feel Leatherman is known for, the Surge is designed to keep performing, job after job, with the strength and versatility for a wide range of tasks.
Should You Buy the Leatherman Surge?
While it isn’t the absolute top-tier multitool in the Leatherman lineup, its mid-tier price reflects an admirable build quality and versatility. It sits in that sweet spot as a heavier-duty option that delivers exceptional quality, durability, and function.
The Surge is built for serious work, making it a smart choice if you need a multitool that can handle tough jobs. It’s not overly flashy but offers all the rugged reliability and performance you expect from a full-featured Leatherman. With its impressive tool variety, strong build, and smooth operation, the Surge proves its worth with unwavering reliability and enduring performance.
What Other Multitools Should You Consider?
Our best multitools gear guide has more options if you want to see what else is on the market. Here’s some that give the Surge a run for its money:
Leatherman Skeletool Review: The Leatherman Skeletool offers a more streamlined and lightweight alternative to the Surge, catering to users who value portability over the sheer number of tools. While the Surge is a full-sized multitool with 21 tools geared toward heavy-duty tasks, the Skeletool focuses on versatility with 7 core tools, including pliers, a knife, a screwdriver, and a bottle opener. It’s much slimmer, easier to carry, and perfect for everyday use or minimalistic tasks. However, it sacrifices some of the heavier-duty features and load-bearing strength of the Surge. The choice comes down to preference: the Skeletool for portability and simplicity or the Surge for versatility and power.
Gerber Multi-Plier Legend Review: The Gerber Multi-Plier Legend offers a strong alternative to the Surge, especially for those prioritizing rugged design and versatility. The Surge boasts 21 tools and is built for more intensive use. The Legend has a more tactical feel as well, with a unique, one-handed deployment system that makes access quick and efficient. While the Surge leans toward more tools and versatility for demanding jobs, the Gerber offers a balance of durability, simplicity, and ease of use for everyday or tactical situations.
SOG PowerAccess Deluxe Review: The SOG PowerAccess is a strong competitor, offering a slightly different approach to multitool design and functionality. While the Surge is a 21-tool powerhouse built for heavy-duty versatility, the PowerAccess keeps things a bit leaner with 19 tools and a focus on innovative design and ease of use. One of the standout features of the PowerAccess is its compound leverage system, which makes its pliers exceptionally strong and easy to operate, even with minimal effort. The Surge excels with its full range of heavy-duty tools and intuitive one-handed access, while the PowerAccess emphasizes ergonomic comfort and innovative performance.
