The new Leatherman Bond is the brand’s first new multi-tool in quite some time. To me, it kind of looks like a “Rebar Lite” type of tool – see my review of the Leatherman Rebar here.
Leatherman says that the Bond is built from the same DNA as the original PST multi-tool, and is a classic that’s made to endure for years to come.
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The Leatherman Bond multi-tool indeed has a classic design where the tools are folded inside the main handle, as opposed to being accessible for one-handed-opening. This helps to give the tool a very compact, slim, and pocket-friendly profile.
When closed, the Bond measures 4″ long (a standard compact length), 1.21″ wide and 0.56″ thick.
The Bond gives you 14 different features and functions:
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- Needlenose Pliers
- Regular Pliers
- Hard-wire Cutters
- Wire Cutters
- Wire Stripper
- 420HC Blade
- Awl
- Can Opener
- Bottle Opener
- Wood/Metal File
- Phillips Screwdriver
- Medium Screwdriver
- Small Screwdriver
- Ruler (4 in | 10 cm)
The tools fold out with what’s described as a non-locking slip joint-style mechanism, which means they will be secure but not actively locked in place. If you prefer an active locking mechanism, consider stepping up to the Rebar.
The Bold comes with black nylon sheath. You also get additional carrying options – a pocket clip attachment point and a lanyard hole.
Price: $50
Buy Now via Amazon
Buy Now via BladeHQ
Buy Now via Leatherman
See Also: Rebar via Amazon
The removable pocket clip is sold separately (via Leatherman) and looks to be the same model as for the FREE tools.
Discussion
Leatherman describe the Bond multi-tool as being perfect for first-time owners or a great backup to existing gear. I think this is a fair description.
The Bond sits at a slightly higher price point compared to the Leatherman Rev multi-tool ($40 via Amazon), and below the Leatherman Wingman ($60 via Amazon), Sidekick ($60 via Amazon), and Rebar ($70 via Amazon) multi-tools.
It seems to me that the Bond was designed to be budget-friendly but without too many obvious compromises. The tools are non-locking, but that’s not a deal-breaker. Many smaller tools, such as the Leatherman Juice and also many Swiss Army Knives don’t have active locks and those are all very good tools.
You don’t get replaceable wire cutting blades, with the Rebar being the closest model to have this.
But that’s what you don’t get. What you do get is a very compact-looking multi-tool with pliers-centric design.
Personally, I tend to strongly prefer one-handed-opening knife blades that can be deployed without folding the entire multi-tool open, but I also sometimes carry a separate pocket knife.
As a starter multi-tool, or backup tool as Leatherman describes it, the Bond seems to offer a good balance between features, capabilities, and pricing.
$50 for a 4-inch (closed) Leatherman multi-tool is a good entry price these days.
Interestingly, the Bond is said to be customizable, a Leatherman-direct feature I have not yet explored. Read more about the Leatherman Custom Shop here.
Lastly, don’t forget about Leatherman’s 25-year warranty. Leatherman is known to provide outstanding customer service.
Jared
Interesting. I don’t think this is one I would buy, but interesting.
Seems marketed as a kinder, gentler Leatherman. Like something that wouldn’t garner as many raised eyebrows in an office setting as my Skeletool, for example. More like the Swiss tool. It looks very traditional too.
What’s the circle thing that folds out like a tool but doesn’t get a number in the product image? Lanyard loop?
I presume the ruler is stamped on the handles?
Hilton
This one definitely has its roots in the Crunch. Yes that’s a lanyard attachment loop.
John
O thought the kinder, gentler Leatherman was the Flair with its cocktail fork and pate spreader. Basically a PST for the cocktail party set. 😉 That one never raised eyebrows at the office.
Plain grainy
Are there collectors that have all these models? Are there early discontinued models? Perhaps Leatherman collections will be sought after. Cheaper than collecting sports cars!
Jim Felt
Yes there are. Some I’ve seen going back decades.
And no jacks, blocks and oil changes. Ever.
fred
I prefer collecting “A” shares of Berkshire Hathaway.
$3 and $4 gold pieces ain’t bad either if you want something metallic.
Plain grainy
Never know about collecting or investing. Sometimes it’s the hidden stuff that doesn’t shine that yields the most.
RusstyB
This does remind me of the original Leatherman – back when there was only one model – which I still have and is a great edc.
Jim Felt
I’ll bet somewhere this morning Tim Leatherman is smiling.
RusstyB
I originally bought it for my grandfather – had to be in the early to mid nineties.
When he passed I reclaimed it – along with an old pack of Werther’s he always had on him as well lol. I still have the leather holder it came with as well. Good memories, and honestly a great little carry tool. I have a few other more modern Leatherman tools, and some Gerber knives and such – but this one always gets the job done also because it does not take up much pocket room so it’s easy to have on you all the time.
Jim Felt
I remember giving my dad one too and now all these years later I must still have that earlier model. Now I’ve got to go look! Geez.
James C
Nostalgia isn’t doing it for me. If they made a new tool with a classic look, but more recent innovations like externally accessible tools, I might be interested.
Classic cars have their appeal too but you start to notice the non-power steering, AM radio, no AC, poor brakes, etc. (I realize that’s part of the appeal to some people – to each their own).
Jim Felt
I’ve only owned one old car, a ‘56 Continental Mk. II, and while it had many later normal features that’s still exactly why I eventually sold it…
Plain grainy
I think we might see some classic car upgrades in the near future. I bet there will be electric conversion kits before long.
Jim Felt
I think Prince Charles or some relative drove a full EV conversion of the classic Jaguar XKE a couple of years ago?
I really expect a floodgate of conversation shops as gas and ICE begin sunsetting.
What a hoot that will be. Better handling, acceleration and no fumes. My EV SUV gets a 260 mile range charge (at home) for barely $3.
Nathan
already happening. Electrified VW bugs are sort of insane.
A few electrified 67-9 mustangs are nuts too. As far as I know there are 3 shops in the US doing it as an option right now.
Plain grainy
I’m wondering if they can put the electric motor on a front wheel. Then have an electric disconnect on the factory drive shaft/ rear axle. That would allow you to switch from electric mode, back to the classic drivetrain in seconds.
Mike McFalls
I agree. I don’t understand this decision, following the release of the Free series with outward facing tools and locks, doesn’t appeal to me. Which is probably a good thing as I have too many Leatherman’s anyway.
Mike
Not being able to get to the knife without opening the tool is a nonstarter for me. I have multitools like that and they stay in the drawer. I’d save up the extra $10 and get the Wingman. The Wingman just so happens to be my EDC tool but I was lucky enough to buy it years ago and got the Wingman and a Style PS combo set for $25. Now that will run you $95
Jared
I think the appeal of this tool is related to it’s simple, classic, and non-intimidating looks though. E.g. I don’t think this is intended as a competitor for the Wingman – it’s an alternative.
A Leatherman you can pull out without people wondering if you’re going to demand they hand over their wallet and valuables.
It’s design is more in-line with the Victorinox Swisstool Spirit – which is a pretty highly lauded multi-tool. The Swisstool is considerably more expensive though.
Matt the Hoople
This is basically the original PST re-released. Has just been freshened up a bit. I still have one from the 80’s (when it was the only game in town) and I’ve actually used it maybe 5 times in the past 25 years. For me, the value of a multi tool is easy access to the pliers or knife while my other hand is occupied holding onto whatever delicate thing I’m working on. My Wave can be flipped open to pliers mode like a butterfly knife. The knives are an easy one handed open/close as well. I have others like the Juice that require two hands but the trade off is the small size and comfort.
The big deal breaker for me on the PST and others with knife on the inside is the gawd awful ergos. Have to ever tried to bear down and squeeze something tightly using a PST? It’s a hand killer.
Leather man makes great products. Just not all are for me. For me, they have better options in large tools (increased cost justified by something I’ll actually use regularly) and better options in compact tools if size/weight is an issue.
Regardless, it’s still good to see them releasing new products and not just resting on their laurels.
Koko The Talking Ape
Like Mike, I don’t see the advantage of putting the tools on the inside, which means one-hand access is impossible, and you have to open it up to do anything at all.
The Wingman and the Sidekick have tools ont the outside. The knife and saw (or scissors) also lock. They cost just $10 more list, and they’ve gone on sale in the past. I’d choose them over this Bond.
And I personally find scissors indispensable. I had to use the scissors once for a first aid situation (don’t ask.)
Mr. X
I still have my original PST, now long past the 25 year warranty. I still keep it with my EDC stuff because it has a low profile, fits just about anywhere, and has a good basic set of features. I also think that this is made to a higher quality standard than the newer entry level models mentioned in the article. It also cleans up like new in the dishwasher with tools partially deployed and the pliers open.
Chuck Forster
I actually look forward to this. I carry a pocket knife that is my primary go-to edge. I’ve been looking for better compliment to my knife. The Skeletool is ok, but lacks a little variety and the knife on it is redundant for my setup. Wave is a little heavy and bulky. Wingman feels cheap for me. Rebar gets closer, but no pocket clip. Bond might be what I’ve been looking for with classic looks and desired tool set.
Stacey Jones
The leatherman stuff looks mostly the same to me and boring at that. The freestyle is a little different, but I personally can’t see myself toting these heavy things as EDC. Maybe a camp out or similar occasionally.
Brad Justinen
The “LEATHERMAN” casting on the side of the jaws suggests it’s made in the USA. If it’s made in China like the Wingman & Sidekick I’m not interested.
Ice_Berg
The Sidekick and Wingman are USA made. As far as I know everything Leatherman has ever sold has been.
Rx9
Disappointed. The old Q division would have included a grapnel hook, a lock pick, a laser, and a small firearm in the design.
Mr. X
Question: Any idea what the two holes are on the file side handle? These are seen in the top picture above and in many promotional photos.
Jerry
I’m guessing for the pocket clip
Stuart
Yep! They show the installation at the end of the video.
Craftsmans Forever
This is an old design with a new name. Come on man! What happened to the next generation with magnetics? I don’t understanding the marketing. I will be looking at the Ford dealerships for the Pinto return.
Bryan
I mean…..cool…..I guess?
It’s sorta a solution looking for a problem IMO.
Nathan
first off the bond name makes little sense. also is it just mean or does it seem cheapened becasue there are no screws to take it apart?
Also why do some say the versions with knife on the outside is “aggressive” ? I don’t get that.
regardless, I’d never buy this but it’s not intended for me. I’ll stick to my wave and sidekick. Though I like the one of the free models.
SP
The Leatherman Curl ( a downgraded Wave) is soon to be released.
As for the “aggressive”, in some European countries there are diferent laws and restrictions for multi-tool carrie, lock knifes, length of knife and acssesibility of knifes in multi-tools.
Your Wave has a brother that is designed and exported only to those countries and obey their rules. It called Wave 2H (Two Hand) minning its not one hand opening. You have to use both your hands and your finger nails to open its blades.
Thus, I anderstand, the 2H is less aggressive than the Wave / Wave+.
The Wave 2H is a Wave+ and the only difference is in the blade and may be the surrated blade design, without those “loops” for quick opening.
You can see it in google image, Leatherman Austria and more.
Sorry for my english..
SP
understand
Alejandro Renteria
The main advantage of traditional inward facing tools is that they offer superior length individual components on outward facing multitools.
Examples of this would be a comparison of the tools on this model vs the gerber mp400 compact sport and leatherman rev.
The gerber would offer one hand opening pliers and scissors instead of a file, at the expense of the drivers. The drivers on the gerber are fully functional but their stubby design limits their functionality.
In contrast the leatherman rev offers a outward facing knife that is superior to the bond. In contrast every other component and tool on the bond is superior to the rev.
Key to this is the length of the file and full 3 dimensional philips driver. Leatherman slim philips are usable, but the true philips and usable file greatly expand the utility of the tool to tradesman.
The prime example of this is the electrical box test, with the pliers, philips, and 1/4 flat all deployed at the same time, you can change an electrical outlet, light bulb in a car, or other common household task without any additional tools or manipulating the tool.
This is the reason why the rebar and supertool remain popular in the trades, most tradesman carry a other cutting implements so a knife on a multitool is secondary to the ability to get a job done with a tool in their pocket without getting down from their ladder or going back to the truck.
Tiny
The slipjoint means for those of us in the UK it is genuinely something to be carried around in pockets. I usually stick to SAKs for edc just because they are slipjoints and not very threatening (and honestly do about 90% of my domestic needs) with a Spyderco UKPK as a proper knife. But this may well be my first Leatherman purchase….
Ren
Some debate as to whether this is would be considered a slip joint.
If have the knife blade out, and the handles closed, the knife blade can’t immediately close. Have to open the handle first and then close it.
Which is amusing because presumably called it Bond for the British reference.
Jerry
I wonder what the sheath looks like?
Yadda
I’m hoping this is 2021’s Christmas offering at Home Depot.
Matt
I’ve got a stable of multitools and my all-time favorite is the Leatherman Sideclip circa 2002 or so. Mine is so loose you can flip it open like a butterfly knife but it carries great. I got away from actually carrying it because it’s long since been discontinued and I’m a little afraid to use it. The Bond with the pocket clip looks like a very slightly modernized Sideclip and I’m pretty excited about it. Everyone is correct about the reduced speed of internally stowed tools but to me the beauty of this one (and the Sideclip) is that it’s pretty sleek for pocket carry. I’m really happy to see the simplicity of this design.
Eddie the Hook
Its nice but i really like having a saw on mine.