Aftera decade, the Leatherman Signal multitool, recognized as the top choice for outdoor enthusiasts, has undergone improvements to deliver even greater functionality.
In the realm of outdoor survival, having a reliable multitool can be a game-changer. Three such multitools that have garnered attention are the Leatherman Signal, Victorinox SwissTool Spirit X, and NexTool. Each excels in different areas, catering to various needs and preferences of outdoor enthusiasts.
Leatherman Signal: The Outdoor Survival Specialist
The Leatherman Signal is a multitool specifically designed for outdoor survival. It boasts unique tools like a hammer, ferrocerium rod for fire-starting, diamond-coated sharpener, and an emergency whistle, in addition to standard multitool functions. This multitool is highly durable, versatile for survival tasks, and favored by outdoor enthusiasts who value preparedness beyond ordinary multitools. However, some specialty tools like the ferro rod and whistle are less useful in everyday non-survival scenarios.
The Signal comes with a nylon belt pouch for carry, and it weighs 7.7 oz. Its blade length is 2.71", closed length is 4.5", and overall thickness is 0.72" and width is 1.55". It features 19 tools in total. The author has used the Signal for various tasks, including working on a 4Runner, making hot dog and marshmallow sticks, repairing a fishing reel, and pruning an invasive rose bush.
The Signal was first released in 2015 and has not been replicated by Leatherman since. The Tundrascape version of the Signal has Cerakoting on the frame and arms, increasing its durability and corrosion resistance. The author believes the Signal could be a good replacement for Swiss Army Knives used by Scouts due to its proficiency and effectiveness.
The Signal comes with a pocket clip and a carabiner that doubles as a second bottle opener for convenient carry. However, the author finds using the bit driver, can opener, bottle opener, and awl tricky due to the design of the hammer. The author recommends replacing the 420HC combo blade with a file for outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists.
Victorinox SwissTool Spirit X: The Precision-Engineered Multitool
The Victorinox SwissTool Spirit X offers a precision-engineered multitool better suited for a blend of everyday and serious tasks. It features about 23 tools including pliers, wire cutters, scissors, various screwdrivers, a metal saw combined with a file, and a well-designed bottle opener. It is slightly lighter than many competitors and excels with solid tool engagement, effective cutting/sawing, and punch/reaming functionality for wood or leather. It’s praised for its fit and finish, but less focused purely on survival-specific features like the Signal.
NexTool: The Balanced Multitool for Survival and Everyday Carry
NexTool strikes a balance by packing eight core functions into a compact titanium body, aiming for efficient size and durability for camping, survival, and everyday carry without the complex specialty survival tools found in the Signal.
In summary, the Leatherman Signal stands out for extreme outdoor survival with specialized features, while the Victorinox SwissTool Spirit X provides a more precision-engineered multitool suited for various tasks, mixing outdoor and urban utility. The NexTool is a more compact, balanced multitool optimal for lighter survival and everyday carry needs. Each of these multitools offers unique benefits, making them valuable additions to any outdoor enthusiast's gear.
- Outdoor enthusiasts who value a blend of everyday and survival tasks may find the Victorinox SwissTool Spirit X, with its precision-engineered design and 23 tools, more appealing than the Leatherman Signal.
- The Leatherman Signal, despite not being replicated by Leatherman since its release in 2015, remains a preferred choice among outdoor enthusiasts for its specialized survival tools and versatility in various tasks.
- For those seeking a compact, balanced multitool suitable for both survival and everyday carry, the NexTool's eight core functions packaged in a durable titanium body could be an ideal option.
- In the realm of fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden, smart-home-devices, technology, sports gadgets, and outdoor-living, these multitools could serve as practical additions to enhance one's lifestyle.5.While fishing in the outdoors, it might be beneficial to carry a reliable multitool such as the Leatherman Signal, Victorinox SwissTool Spirit X, or NexTool, as they can prove useful for a variety of tasks.
