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Earlier this spring, Leatherman unveiled four new Cerakote finish options for its lauded Signal multi-tool: Tundrascape, Mesa Verde, Santa Fe, and Nocturnal. The new multitone colorways are a nice update just in time for the tenth anniversary of the tool’s debut. When I was offered the chance to try one, I didn’t hesitate to accept: I chose the Tundrascape finish. What I learned is that this midsize multi-tool may not be the right everyday carry for DIYers, but it is a compelling option for weekend adventurers.
Top Pick
Leatherman Signal Multi-Tool
Originally released in 2015, the Leatherman 19-in-1 Signal features tools for outdoor enthusiasts, such as a fire starter, emergency whistle, hammer, saw, knife blade, and diamond sharpener. It also comes with the basic mechanical tools we’ve come to expect from Leatherman: pliers, wire cutters, bit driver, ¼-inch box wrench, awl, and more. The Cerakote finish enhances its resistance to abrasion, corrosion, and the elements in general, and each new colorway comes with a matching nylon sheath.
After a month of hard use, my Signal looks as good as it did right out of the box. So far, I see no scratches or scuffs on the finish and no signs of weathering. Weighing about 7.5 ounces, it has been comfortable to belt-carry or tote in a backpack as a counterpart to my pocket knife. Due to the combination of tools, as well as their placement, this multi-tool favors hiking and camping, where the bit driver will rarely be deployed, and a knife, saw, and pliers will be of greatest value. The shape of the hammer head, which did a fine job installing tent anchors, prevents using the bit driver or can opener with the handles closed. That’s fine for occasional work on camp gear, but it’s a little inconvenient to deal with on a regular basis.
As I have experienced with other Leatherman multi-tools, the knife and saw blades arrived sharp, and they have held their edges very well after all kinds of cutting. I like that they’re readily accessible without needing to splay the handles. The knife includes a thumb loop that makes it easy to open one-handed. Both blades include frame locks to prevent accidental closure. The Signal also comes equipped with a small diamond sharpener to touch up the blade while in the field, if needed.
The fire-starting ferro rod built into the back of the emergency whistle has been the most unique feature, and it’s surprisingly effective. Although the rod is only 1.75 inches long, it actually works quite well. Scraped against the back of the saw blade, it made plenty of sparks to ignite jute fiber or fatwood shavings. The whistle is nice and loud too, and it clips snugly into one handle. These two implements may not get much use unless you get lost, but having them tucked into the handle ensures they are always nearby in case of emergency.
After 10 years on the market, the Leatherman Signal has become a fixture on the belts of campers and hikers for good reason. It’s tough as nails and has all the features one might need in that setting, including some that most people may not have considered. Going forward, I plan on using my old Leatherman Wave+ multi-tool at home and around the shop, but I’ll opt for the Signal when simplicity and light weight count most.
Where to Buy the Leatherman Signal Multi-Tool
Get the Leatherman Signal in Tundrascape at:
