Leatherman,the Portland-based multi-tool giant,has long been synonymous with innovation and reliability in the world of EDC(Everyday Carry)gear.Since its inception in 1983,Leatherman has not only dominated the multi-tool market but has also set the standard for quality and versatility.Recently,the brand has expanded into premium knives,marking a new chapter in its storied history.
Leatherman’s journey began in 1975 when Tim Leatherman,a mechanical engineer,found himself frustrated during a European trip.Armed with only a pocket knife,he struggled to fix his Fiat and deal with leaky hotel plumbing.Realizing the need for a foldable pliers tool that could fit in his pocket,Tim set out to design a multi-tool that combined pliers with other essential tools.After years of prototyping,he filed a patent in 1980 with the help of machinist Steve Berliner,who became his co-founder.
In 1983,the Pocket Survival Tool(PST)was born.This palm-sized multi-tool featured needle-nose pliers with wire cutters and an assortment of tools commonly found on a Swiss Army knife.The PST quickly became a hit,filling 500 orders from a Cabela’s catalog and gaining popularity among handymen and outdoorsmen.Word of mouth spread,and Leatherman’s reputation grew as tens of thousands of PSTs were sold within a year.
Throughout the 1990s,Leatherman expanded its lineup with new multi-tools like the Mini Tool,a compact 2.6-inch device with five functions.The brand’s reputation for quality and innovation grew as awareness of its manufacturing methods spread.Leatherman’s multi-tools are hand-assembled in the USA,ensuring durability and reliability.Today,Leatherman estimates that one out of every 11 people in the US owns one of their multi-tools.
This summer,Leatherman ventured into premium knives with the introduction of three fixed blades and two folders.These knives represent a new direction for the brand,combining the same dedication to quality and functionality that has defined its multi-tools.
The Trac is a versatile 4.2-inch drop-point fixed blade,perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.Available in Alpine,Earth Brown,and Jet Black handles,it features CPM MagnaCut stainless steel and weighs 6.4 ounces.The knife’s hollow saber grind and G10 handle provide exceptional balance.It comes with a full-grain leather sheath that allows for multiple carry options.Priced at300,the Trac is available on Leatherman’s website.
For more sophisticated outdoor cooking,the Rustle is a purpose-built knife with a 4-inch santoku blade profile.Reimagined for outdoor use,this fixed blade features a full flat grind and CPM MagnaCut steel.It weighs just 4.3 ounces and comes with a waterproof Kydex sheath.Available in Alpine,Evergreen,and Vapor Grey scales,the Rustle is priced at280.
The Pioneer is the most robust of the trio,designed for serious outdoor tasks like bushcraft and survival.This 5-inch Japanese tanto-style blade is perfect for chopping,prying,and batoning.The knife weighs 8.3 ounces and features a hybrid leather-and-Kydex sheath with multiple carry options.It also includes a ferro rod slot for survivalists.Available in Alpine and Orange Pop colorways,the Pioneer is priced at300.
Leatherman’s foray into premium knives marks a new chapter in its history.From the PST’s humble beginnings to the sophisticated design of its latest fixed blades,Leatherman continues to innovate and meet the needs of its users.Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or an everyday carry enthusiast,Leatherman’s latest offerings are sure to impress.