Leatherman Skeletool Variants

The Leatherman Skeletool is so stripped-down that there is almost no possibility for major variations between the different models in the line, but there are some differences between the types as well as many similarities. The size of Skeletools does not vary – all are full-sized multitools, around 4 inches long when closed and 6 inches long when open – and differences in weight are very narrow around 5 ounces.

The Skeletool comes in two basic groups – standard and CX. Within each group, there are five different versions, which differ from each other in packaging and the presence or absence of a nylon sheath. The possible packaging includes box, clamshell, and gift tin containers. The Skeletools without nylon sheaths come with all types of packaging, while those with nylon sheaths come in box or gift tin only.

As of the current year, standard Leatherman Skeletools are made out of 420HC stainless steel, which is adequate to most tasks but not as absolutely strong as stainless steel can be. These tools are good-quality and cheaper than their CX counterparts, generally by around twenty dollars. They are also distinguished by the included knife – because of the softer stainless steel they are made of, it is practical to fashion a blade with a hybrid, half-smooth, half-serrated edge. This is the opposite of earlier standard models, which include smooth-edged knives instead.

CX Leatherman Skeletools have aluminum or carbon fiber handle scale, and are fashioned out of the excellent, durable 154CM stainless steel. The CX variants are more expensive than the standard, but are probably better for those who intend to use their Leatherman vigorously – the harder, more resilient steel will ensure years of faithful service even for those who use the tools hard every day.

The knife included in the CX series is a smooth-edged knife, whereas prior to 2009, CX knives had hybrid smooth-serrated blades onboard. If you want a tough CX multitool with a hybrid knife, you will have to find an older one – perhaps in unsold store stock or, by good luck, at a garage sale or home auction. The 154CM blade will hold an edge for a long time and is unlikely to snap off except under the most rigorous and careless use.

In all other ways, the two groups of Skeletools are quite similar. Both feature a needlenose pliers head (with a relatively wide “needle,” it should be noted) with a regular wire cutter and a hard-wire cutter for more resistant pieces of wire; a good-sized pocket knife (with the edges as noted above); a universal bit driver and space to carry a spare bit or two for different kinds of screws; a lean, skeletal handle design with many holes to lighten the tool; and a carabineer clip that doubles as a bottle opener – a highly popular feature.