Best Multi-Tools · #7
Skeletool CX
Leatherman
Reader rating
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Five ounces of skeletonized stainless with a 154CM blade, needlenose pliers, bit driver, and a carabiner bottle opener. The best weight-to-usefulness ratio in the category.
Pros
- Excellent weight-to-usefulness ratio
- Premium 154CM blade offers superior edge retention
- Compact and highly portable for everyday carry
- Integrated carabiner clip for easy attachment
- Solid Leatherman build quality and warranty
Cons
- Limited tool selection compared to full-sized models
- Proprietary bit driver system
- No scissors or saw, which some users prioritize
Best uses
- Everyday carry
- Ultralight backpacking
- Cycling and light repairs
- Urban utility
- Minimalist outdoor pursuits
Specifications
- Manufacturer
- Leatherman
- Model
- Skeletool CX
- Weight
- 5.0 oz (142 g)
- Blade Steel
- 154CM Stainless
- Tool Count
- 7
- Closed Length
- 4.0 in (10 cm)
Pricing
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Best for
Everyday carry, Ultralight backpacking, Cycling and light repairs, Urban utility, Minimalist outdoor pursuits
Where to buy the Skeletool CX
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The Leatherman Skeletool CX takes a minimalist approach to the multi-tool, stripping away non-essential features to deliver a lean, five-ounce package. It's built around a core set of tools: a 154CM steel blade, needlenose pliers, a bit driver, and a carabiner that doubles as a bottle opener. This isn't a tool designed to tackle every conceivable task; rather, it’s engineered for those who prioritize weight savings and quick access to frequently used implements. The skeletonized design isn't just for aesthetics; it shaves off precious ounces, making it an excellent choice for everyday carry where bulk is a concern. While it won't replace a full-sized tool kit, its focused utility and robust construction make it surprisingly capable for its size. This CX variant distinguishes itself with a premium 154CM stainless steel blade, offering superior edge retention compared to the standard Skeletool's 420HC. This upgrade is significant for users who rely on a sharp, durable knife for extended periods without frequent sharpening. The integrated carabiner clip allows for convenient attachment to a belt loop or pack strap, ensuring it's always within easy reach. For anyone seeking a multi-tool that balances essential functionality with an ultralight footprint, the Skeletool CX is a strong contender. It's not about having every tool, but having the right tools, readily available, without weighing you down.
Target User
This multi-tool is for the user who appreciates a focused, lightweight kit. It's not trying to be a toolbox in your pocket. Hikers, climbers, cyclists, and anyone in an urban environment needing reliable, quick access to a sharp blade, pliers, and a driver will find it useful. It shines as an everyday carry item where minimal bulk is paramount. If you frequently find yourself needing to tighten a loose screw, cut a cord, or open a bottle, without wanting to carry a heavy, traditional multi-tool, this is engineered for you. The Skeletool CX caters to those who value efficiency and thoughtful design over an exhaustive list of features.
Materials & Construction
The Skeletool CX features a skeletonized stainless steel frame, reducing weight without compromising structural integrity. The star of the show is the 154CM stainless steel blade, known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, a significant upgrade over the standard Skeletool's 420HC. All components are robustly assembled, exhibiting Leatherman's typical attention to detail. The pliers operate smoothly with no discernible play, and the bit driver holds securely. Its construction emphasizes durability for frequent, albeit lighter, use. You won't find flimsy plastic or compromised pivot points here; it's a solid piece of gear.
Real-World Performance
In the field, the Skeletool CX performs exactly as intended. The 154CM blade holds an edge exceptionally well for cutting cord, opening packages, or light food prep. The needlenose pliers are precise enough for small adjustments and sturdy enough for moderate gripping tasks. The bit driver, while limited to Leatherman's proprietary bits, covers most common screw types with the included double-ended bit. The carabiner clip is a surprisingly useful feature, keeping the tool readily accessible on a belt loop or pack. It's not a heavy-duty workhorse, but for its intended scope of use, it consistently delivers reliable performance.
Weight & Packability
At a mere five ounces, the Skeletool CX is one of the lightest full-sized multi-tools available. Its skeletonized frame and compact, folded profile mean it disappears in a pocket or attaches unobtrusively to a pack strap via its integrated carabiner. This isn't a tool you'll hesitate to carry due to bulk or weight. It's designed to be an almost unnoticeable addition to your daily loadout, making it ideal for ultralight backpackers, climbers, or anyone who values a streamlined carry. It achieves an excellent weight-to-usefulness ratio, providing essential tools without becoming a burden.
Durability & Longevity
Leatherman builds its tools to last, and the Skeletool CX is no exception. The stainless steel construction and quality 154CM blade ensure it can withstand regular use and exposure to the elements without premature wear or corrosion. Pivot points are solid, and the locking mechanisms for the blade and bit driver are secure. While it’s not designed for prying rebar or cutting heavy gauge wire all day, it will stand up to the tasks it's built for with ease. With minimal care, this tool will likely serve you faithfully for many years, backed by Leatherman's robust warranty.
How we chose
We started with a long list of best multi-tools that people actually buy, cut anything that could not clear our baseline for durability and field performance, then ranked the 10 that were left against the same criteria. Rankings are editorial. No brand pays for placement, and affiliate links never move a pick up or down.
- Edge geometry and steel
- Grind, stock thickness, and how the steel behaves between sharpenings in real camp tasks.
- Real-world durability
- How the material, stitching, or steel holds up after a season of hard use — not how it looks new.
- Performance in bad conditions
- Wind, rain, cold, and grit are the test. Anything that only works on a nice day gets marked down.
- Weight and packability
- Every ounce has to earn its place in the pack, but not at the cost of something that fails in the field.
- Ease of use
- Setup, adjustment, and maintenance with cold hands, in the dark, without the manual.
- Value at its price point
- Compared against the closest competitors in the same tier, not against cheaper gear in a different class.
Skeletool CX — frequently asked questions
- Is the Skeletool CX worth it?
- We rank it #7 in Best Multi-Tools. Five ounces of skeletonized stainless with a 154CM blade, needlenose pliers, bit driver, and a carabiner bottle opener. The best weight-to-usefulness ratio in the category.
- What is the Skeletool CX best for?
- Best for everyday carry, ultralight backpacking, cycling and light repairs and urban utility. Standouts: excellent weight-to-usefulness ratio and premium 154cm blade offers superior edge retention.
- What are the downsides of the Skeletool CX?
- Limited tool selection compared to full-sized models, Proprietary bit driver system and No scissors or saw, which some users prioritize.
- What are the key specs of the Skeletool CX?
- Manufacturer: Leatherman · Model: Skeletool CX · Weight: 5.0 oz (142 g) · Blade Steel: 154CM Stainless · Tool Count: 7
- Target User — what should I know about the Skeletool CX?
- This multi-tool is for the user who appreciates a focused, lightweight kit. It's not trying to be a toolbox in your pocket.
- Materials & Construction — what should I know about the Skeletool CX?
- The Skeletool CX features a skeletonized stainless steel frame, reducing weight without compromising structural integrity. The star of the show is the 154CM stainless steel blade, known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, a significant upgrade over the standard Skeletool's 420HC.
Compare side by side
Put the Skeletool CX against any other pick on this list — specs, price, pros, cons and reader ratings.