Three Leatherman Multi-Tools with Bit Drivers
My backcountry repair kit is on the thin side when compared to many skiers, but I always carry a ski multi-tool in my pack - read more about backcountry repair kits. In my experience, the highest-use tools for addressing boot, binding and unforeseen backcountry ski gear issues are a screwdriver of one sort or another, pliers and a good blade. Scissors are a nice plus but not a requirement, and a bottle opener is always a handy companion.
Although there's no true dedicated ski multi-tool on the market at the moment, there are numerous generic multi-tools that meet skier needs. After trying various models, I have narrowed down a selection of the best multi-tools that offer what I like to have handy in my pack. Here are three different Leatherman multi-tools with bit drivers that make great multi-tools for skiers.
The critical detail on all three of these tools is the built-in bit driver. While the built-in driver is short and designed for Leatherman's proprietary non-standard bits, you can boost the functionality by adding Leatherman's "bit extender." The extender accepts standard 1/4" bits and turns these multi-tools into very functional bit drivers for reaching binding screws in tight locations.
Leatherman Skeletool with accessory bit driver extension
Leatherman Skeletool Multi-Tool
For gram-counting minimalists, the Leatherman Skeletool is the skier's multi-tool of choice. It's bare bones (ha!), but it offers the essentials for turning screws and cutting stuff, plus the utility of pliers in a lightweight five-ounce package. Combined with a Leatherman bit extender, it offers essential functionality for backcountry skiers and weighs less than the other tools included here.
Tool selection is limited to the multi-use plier, partially serrated blade, bottle opener and the all-important bit driver. But the reality is that it offers the essentials for doing emergency repairs and adjustments on a modest-length adventure.
The Skeletool includes a couple of bits for the built-in bit driver, and the spare is stored inside the handle. But at the risk of sounding like a broken record, it's the Leatherman bit extender that lets you reach the screws on boots and bindings with a small multi-tool. Without the extension, you'll find yourself in tight quarters, the tool pressed against the binding, wishing you had it.
To make the extension complete, add a couple of Torx bits, a #3 posi-drive, plus Philips and flathead bits, and you've got a lightweight, low-profile tool for getting out of a jam – all for about $120. Read our DIY backcountry repair kit post.
MSRP: $90 - 5 oz - check prices for Leatherman Skeletool Multi-Tool
MSRP: $27 - 1 oz - check prices for Leatherman Bit Driver Extension
Leatherman Signal with all the accessories
Leatherman Signal Multi-Tool
The Leatherman Signal multi-tool is the middle-of-the-road model of the three tools featured here. At seven ounces, it's a touch lighter than the Charge but still heavier than the Skeletool. It's also got a nice blend of tools, including a partially serrated blade, small saw, can opener, diamond sharpener, hammer, hex bit driver, safety whistle, and ferrocerium sparking rod — hence the Signal name.
I can't say the sparker has proven to be very functional in my attempts at starting a fire, and I certainly would not bet my life on starting one with it. But perhaps someone more skilled in primitive pursuits than I could find more success.
The hammer, as mentioned earlier, is built into the end with the clip and is reasonably practical. Its small size makes for precise, albeit relatively light hammering, but it's pretty well suited to use on small binding and boot parts.
Like the other two multi-tools, it accepts the Leatherman Bit Driver Ratchet Extension, which I deem a required accessory if you want to reach binding screws and have reasonable leverage for emergency repairs.
MSRP: $140 - 7.5 oz - check prices on the Leatherman Signal Multi-Tool
MSRP: $27 - 1 oz - check prices for Leatherman Bit Driver Extension
Leatherman Charge Multi-Tool
Leatherman Charge with accessories
The Leatherman Charge is the heaviest and most fully-featured of the three tools featured as ski multi-tools. It boasts 19 different tools and features. And by heavy, we're talking a total of eight ounces or half a pound – that's 227 grams for the metric crowd. It's hefty, but I'd rather carry the weight and be able to ski out than not carry it and have to walk out on one ski.
The Charge is the ticket for multi-day trips. The main benefits of the Charge are having a small pair of scissors, a micro-screwdriver that's nice for eyeglasses/sunglasses adjustment and multiple blade options. Beyond the above, a small saw and file can also prove their value very quickly when you need to cut through wood or work on a ski edge.
The bit driver fits the aftermarket bits available from Leatherman (pictured) and the bit extender (pictured). If you want to be able to reach binding screws and have reasonable leverage, the Leatherman Bit Driver Extension for an extra $20 should be considered essential equipment.
MSRP: $160 - 8.3 oz - Check prices for the Leatherman Charge
MSRP: $27 - 1 oz - check prices for Leatherman Bit Driver Extension
Read about emergency backcountry repair kits and check out the minimalist Swiss+Tech Mini Pliers
