Leatherman Surge vs Leatherman Skeletool CX
Leatherman Surge ($130) vs Leatherman Skeletool CX ($105) — side-by-side specs, weight, pros and cons to help you pick the right multi-tool.
Spec-by-spec
| Spec | Leatherman Surge | Leatherman Skeletool CX |
|---|
| Price | $130 | $105 |
| Weight | 294g | 142g |
| Tools | 21 | 7 |
| Blades | Large + extra-large serrated | — |
| Pliers | Needle-nose + regular + wire cutter | Needle-nose + regular |
| Weight | 294g | 142g |
| Steel | 420HC | — |
| Case | Leather sheath included | — |
| Handle | — | Carbon fiber + stainless |
| Clip | — | Carabiner |
| Blade | — | 154CM steel (CX version) |
Pros & Cons
Leatherman Surge
- 21 tools most complete ever
- All tools outside-accessible
- Spring-action pliers
- Blade exchange system
- 25-year warranty Leatherman
- 294g heaviest Leatherman
- Too big for pocket carry
- Not TSA-friendly (blades)
Leatherman Skeletool CX
- 142g actually pocketable
- 154CM blade on CX is premium
- Carabiner integrates into carry
- 7 tools covers 95% of tasks
- Carbon fiber handle looks sharp
- $105 for a 7-tool
- No scissors
- Minimalism frustrates some
Leatherman Skeletool CX is the better value at $105. Both are part of our curated multi-tool index — tap through to check current pricing.