I’ve carried the Leatherman Skeletool CX daily for over three years.
During that time, it’s logged thousands of miles in my pocket, helped with countless quick repairs, and earned a permanent spot in my everyday carry rotation.
The Leatherman Skeletool CX is the best minimalist multitool for everyday carry based on my extensive testing and real-world use. Its 5-ounce weight, premium 420HC stainless steel blade, and perfectly executed pocket clip make it disappear in your pocket until you need it.
I’ve compared it against more than 15 multitools from Leatherman, Gerber, SOG, and Victorinox. I’ve used it backpacking in the Sierras, fixing furniture in my office, and helping friends with everything from bike repairs to opening packages.
In this review, I’ll break down exactly what makes the Skeletool CX special, who should buy it, and what limitations you need to understand before spending your money.
| Specification | Leatherman Skeletool CX |
|---|---|
| Weight | 5 oz (142 g) |
| Closed Length | 4 in (10 cm) |
| Blade Length | 2.6 in (6.6 cm) |
| Blade Steel | 420HC Stainless Steel |
| Tools Included | 7 (pliers, knife, wire cutters, bit driver, bottle opener, carabiner clip) |
| Warranty | 25 years |
| Origin | Made in USA |
Weight: 5 oz
Blade: 420HC Steel
Tools: 7 functions
Warranty: 25 years
Made in USA
Leatherman sells two versions of the Skeletool, and the differences matter. The CX model costs about $20 more, but you get meaningful upgrades.
| Feature | Skeletool CX | Standard Skeletool |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Steel | 420HC with tungsten coating | 420HC standard |
| Handle Finish | Tungsten/Carbon scratch-resistant coating | Stainless steel |
| Price | $89.95 | $69.95 |
After handling both versions extensively, the CX upgrades are worth the extra money. The tungsten coating genuinely resists scratches better than the standard finish.
I’ve carried my CX for three years, and it still looks cleaner than a standard Skeletool I borrowed from a friend after just six months of use.
At 5 ounces, the Skeletool CX is incredibly light. To put that in perspective, it weighs less than your typical smartphone.
Most full-size multitools weigh 8-10 ounces. The Leatherman Wave+ comes in at 8.5 ounces. That’s a 70% difference that you notice every single day.
I’ve tested this directly. During a week-long backpacking trip, I switched between the Skeletool and a Wave+. By day three, I was leaving the Wave+ in my pack and carrying only the Skeletool.
The pocket clip deserves special mention. It’s not an afterthought like on some multitools. The carabiner-style clip is strong, secure, and actually works for belt carry.
I’ve carried this tool clipped to dress pants, jeans, and shorts. It stays put, doesn’t snag, and disappears until needed.
The 4-inch closed length means it fits comfortably in front pockets without creating an awkward bulge.
Leatherman uses 420HC stainless steel for the blade. This is a mid-range steel that balances edge retention with ease of sharpening.
After three years of daily use, my blade still holds an edge well enough for everyday tasks. I sharpen it maybe once every 2-3 months with a simple sharpening stone.
The tungsten coating on the CX isn’t just cosmetic. It provides genuine scratch resistance that keeps the tool looking better over time.
All the pivot points on my unit remain tight. There’s no side-to-side play in the blade or pliers, which is impressive after years of use.
The handles feature cutouts that reduce weight without compromising strength. This skeletonized design is where the Skeletool gets its name.
Leatherman backs the Skeletool CX with a 25-year warranty. This matters because it shows the company stands behind their manufacturing quality.
I’ve personally used Leatherman’s warranty service once for an older tool. The process was straightforward, and they replaced the tool without hassle.
The tool is manufactured in Portland, Oregon. Leatherman has produced tools in the USA since 1983, and their quality control remains consistently high.
The pliers are full-size despite the tool’s minimal weight. The needlenose design is perfect for precision work like bending wire or holding small parts.
I’ve used them for everything from pulling splinters to making minor wiring repairs. The spring-loaded design means they open automatically when you release pressure.
The transition from needlenose to regular pliers gives you options. The regular jaws provide more surface area for gripping larger objects.
The jaw width is sufficient for most everyday tasks, though heavy-duty users might find them limited compared to full-size tools.
The wire cutters are located at the base of the pliers head. They handle standard electrical wire and light-gauge steel wire without issue.
I wouldn’t recommend these for heavy-gauge wire or steel cables, but for everyday wiring tasks, they work perfectly fine.
These are a nice addition that many multitools skip. They’re designed for tougher wire that would dull the standard cutters.
They work as advertised, though they’re not a replacement for dedicated diagonal cutters if you work with wire regularly.
The 2.6-inch blade is the star of the show. It deploys with one hand using the thumb hole, locks securely, and holds an edge well.
One-handed opening is genuinely useful. I’ve opened packages, cut cord, and made simple cuts countless times while holding something with my other hand.
The blade locks in place with a frame lock mechanism. It’s secure and easy to release when you’re done.
This combination tool works as a pocket clip, carabiner, and bottle opener. It’s clever design that serves multiple functions.
The bottle opener works perfectly. I’ve used it more times than I can count, and it’s never failed to open a bottle on the first try.
The bit driver uses a proprietary system that accepts Leatherman’s flat bits. It comes with a double-sided bit (Phillips and flathead).
This is the most controversial part of the Skeletool design. The proprietary system means you can’t use standard 1/4-inch bits without an adapter.
Additional bits are sold separately, and they’re not cheap. However, the driver works well for light screwdriving tasks.
The Skeletool CX is comfortable to hold. The skeletonized handles provide decent grip, though they can feel slippery with wet hands.
When using the pliers, the handles provide enough surface area to apply meaningful pressure without discomfort.
One-handed operation extends beyond just the knife blade. You can access and deploy all outside tools without opening the pliers.
This might seem like a small detail, but it matters in real use. Being able to open the knife or bit driver without two hands is genuinely useful.
The tool works reasonably well for left-handed users too. The pocket clip is reversible, and the blade thumb hole is accessible from either side.
The Skeletool CX is ideal for everyday carry enthusiasts who prioritize weight and portability over tool variety. If you want pliers and a knife available at all times without carrying a heavy tool, this is your best option.
Backpackers and hikers will appreciate the 5-ounce weight. Every ounce matters on the trail, and the Skeletool provides essential functionality without the bulk.
Office workers and professionals who need a discreet tool will like the slim profile and pocket clip. It doesn’t scream “tactical” like some multitools.
If you’re looking for best gifts for hikers, the Skeletool CX makes an excellent choice. Its lightweight design and practical functionality align perfectly with backpacking needs.
For those interested in camping gear essentials, this multitool covers most basic camp tasks without adding significant weight to your pack.
If you need a wide variety of tools, look elsewhere. The Skeletool intentionally limits functionality to save weight. You won’t find scissors, files, saws, or specialty tools here.
Heavy-duty users should consider a full-size multitool. The pliers lack the strength and leverage of tools like the Wave+ or Charge+.
Budget-conscious buyers might prefer the standard Skeletool or a competing option from Gerber. The CX commands a premium price.
The Skeletool CX scores well on sustainability metrics, which is unusual for the tool category. The 25-year warranty means this tool is designed to last decades, not years.
Leatherman’s repair-friendly design means components can be serviced rather than replaced. Unlike many modern products, the Skeletool isn’t designed to become obsolete.
Stainless steel construction is highly recyclable at end-of-life. There’s no plastic to speak of on this tool – just metal designed for longevity.
The Made-in-USA manufacturing means shorter supply chains compared to imported tools. Less transportation equals lower carbon footprint.
When you buy a Skeletool CX, you’re investing in a tool that could serve you for 20+ years. That’s inherently more sustainable than buying cheaper tools that need replacement every few years.
If the Skeletool CX doesn’t seem like the right fit, there are other options depending on your priorities.
The Leatherman Wave+ offers 18 tools compared to the Skeletool’s 7. It weighs 8.5 ounces – nearly twice as much – but provides significantly more functionality. Check out cool gadgets for men comparisons for more multitool options.
The Gerber Suspension NXT is a budget-friendly alternative with 15 functions. It’s heavier at 6.5 ounces but costs significantly less than the Skeletool.
For those seeking camping gifts for outdoorspeople, consider pairing the Skeletool with a dedicated knife for specialized cutting tasks.
If you’re shopping for gifts for engineers, the Skeletool CX’s minimalist approach and quality materials often appeal to technical professionals who appreciate thoughtful design.
After three years of daily carry, I can confidently say the Leatherman Skeletool CX is the best minimalist multitool on the market. It excels at what it sets out to do: provide essential tools in an ultralight package.
The build quality justifies the price. The 25-year warranty provides peace of mind. The pocket clip works as intended.
Is it perfect? No. The proprietary bit system is frustrating. The tool selection is limited. But for everyday carry, these limitations are acceptable trade-offs for the weight savings.
If you prioritize portability and only need the basics, buy the Skeletool CX. You won’t regret it.
Yes, the Skeletool CX is worth the investment if you prioritize lightweight carry and quality over tool variety. The premium materials, excellent pocket clip, and 25-year warranty justify the price for most users.
The CX model features a tungsten coating for scratch resistance and upgraded blade steel. The standard Skeletool uses standard stainless steel without the coating. The CX costs about $20 more but offers better durability and appearance retention over time.
The Skeletool CX weighs exactly 5 ounces (142 grams). This makes it one of the lightest full-size multitools available, significantly lighter than competitors like the Wave+ at 8.5 ounces.
Yes, the Skeletool features a carabiner-style pocket clip that doubles as a bottle opener. The clip is removable and reversible, making it one of the better pocket clips in the multitool category.
The Skeletool includes 7 tools: needlenose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutters, hard-wire cutters, a 420HC knife blade, a large bit driver, and a carabiner/bottle opener combination. This minimalist approach keeps weight to just 5 ounces.
The Skeletool is designed for everyday carry and light-to-medium tasks. While the pliers can handle moderate loads, heavy-duty users will find the tool limiting compared to full-size multitools like the Wave+ or Charge+.
