Two brands have dominated the BIFL multitool category for decades: Leatherman and Victorinox. They solve different problems. Knowing which one you need saves you buying both.
Also read: Best BIFL Leather Wallet: What to Look For and Which Ones Last and Best BIFL Watch Under €500: Seiko, Tissot and Orient
Leatherman Wave+
The Leatherman Wave+ is a pliers-based multitool with 18 tools including outside-accessible blades, a saw, scissors, and a wire cutter. The 25-year warranty covers everything except normal wear. It weighs 241 grams and the pliers are strong enough for real work. The Wave+ has been the top recommendation on r/BuyItForLife since that community existed. It belongs in a toolbox, a workshop bag, or anywhere you might actually need to fix something.
Victorinox Swiss Army (Climber or Huntsman)
The Victorinox Swiss Army knife is a knife-based multitool. The Climber (14 tools) and Huntsman (15 tools, adds a saw) are the most versatile models. They weigh 70 to 80 grams, fit in a front pocket without bulk, and include scissors that are genuinely useful for everyday tasks. The blades are not lockable, which makes them unsuitable for heavy cutting tasks. They belong in a jacket pocket, a travel bag, or anywhere compact and unobtrusive matter more than power.
Leatherman Skeletool
The Leatherman Skeletool sits between the two: 7 tools, 142 grams, a carabiner clip, and a minimalist design. It has the pliers and knife of the Wave+ without the bulk. For those who find the Wave+ too heavy for daily carry but want real pliers available, the Skeletool is the answer.
The Recommendation
For a toolbox or work bag: Leatherman Wave+. For daily pocket carry: Victorinox Climber or Huntsman. For a middle ground between both: Leatherman Skeletool. If you can only have one and do not know yet which situation you are buying for: the Wave+. Its 25-year warranty and consistent performance across real tasks make it the safer long-term investment.
