The new Leatherman Bond is the brand’s first new multi-tool in quite some time. To me, it kind of looks like a “Rebar Lite” type of tool – see my review of the Leatherman Rebar here.
Leatherman says that the Bond is built from the same DNA as the original PST multi-tool, and is a classic that’s made to endure for years to come.
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The Leatherman Bond multi-tool indeed has a classic design where the tools are folded inside the main handle, as opposed to being accessible for one-handed-opening. This helps to give the tool a very compact, slim, and pocket-friendly profile.
When closed, the Bond measures 4″ long (a standard compact length), 1.21″ wide and 0.56″ thick.
The Bond gives you 14 different features and functions:
- Needlenose Pliers
- Regular Pliers
- Hard-wire Cutters
- Wire Cutters
- Wire Stripper
- 420HC Blade
- Awl
- Can Opener
- Bottle Opener
- Wood/Metal File
- Phillips Screwdriver
- Medium Screwdriver
- Small Screwdriver
- Ruler (4 in | 10 cm)
The tools fold out with what’s described as a non-locking slip joint-style mechanism, which means they will be secure but not actively locked in place. If you prefer an active locking mechanism, consider stepping up to the Rebar.
The Bold comes with black nylon sheath. You also get additional carrying options – a pocket clip attachment point and a lanyard hole.
Price: $50
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See Also: Rebar via Amazon
The removable pocket clip is sold separately (via Leatherman) and looks to be the same model as for the FREE tools.
Discussion
Leatherman describe the Bond multi-tool as being perfect for first-time owners or a great backup to existing gear. I think this is a fair description.
The Bond sits at a slightly higher price point compared to the Leatherman Rev multi-tool ($40 via Amazon), and below the Leatherman Wingman ($60 via Amazon), Sidekick ($60 via Amazon), and Rebar ($70 via Amazon) multi-tools.
It seems to me that the Bond was designed to be budget-friendly but without too many obvious compromises. The tools are non-locking, but that’s not a deal-breaker. Many smaller tools, such as the Leatherman Juice and also many Swiss Army Knives don’t have active locks and those are all very good tools.
You don’t get replaceable wire cutting blades, with the Rebar being the closest model to have this.
But that’s what you don’t get. What you do get is a very compact-looking multi-tool with pliers-centric design.
Personally, I tend to strongly prefer one-handed-opening knife blades that can be deployed without folding the entire multi-tool open, but I also sometimes carry a separate pocket knife.
As a starter multi-tool, or backup tool as Leatherman describes it, the Bond seems to offer a good balance between features, capabilities, and pricing.
$50 for a 4-inch (closed) Leatherman multi-tool is a good entry price these days.
Interestingly, the Bond is said to be customizable, a Leatherman-direct feature I have not yet explored. Read more about the Leatherman Custom Shop here.
Lastly, don’t forget about Leatherman’s 25-year warranty. Leatherman is known to provide outstanding customer service.
Intro Video