Leatherman Skeletool CX Multi-Tool
A 5-ounce, seven-tool pocket multi-tool with pliers, wire cutters, a 154CM steel blade, a bit driver and a carabiner clip: Leatherman's lightest pliers-based tool, not a full toolbox.
Quick verdict
Yes, if you want pliers in your pocket without a full-size multi-tool's weight. The Leatherman Skeletool CX weighs 5 ounces and has seven tools, including pliers, wire cutters, a 154CM steel blade, a bit driver and a carabiner, with a 25-year warranty. It has no saw, scissors or file, and the sheath is sold separately, so a full-size tool like the Wave Plus suits bigger jobs.
- Best for:
- Light everyday carry with real pliers.
- Watch out:
- Only seven tools; no sheath included.
Amazon US listing and availability checked October 26, 2026. Prices and stock can change.
Reviewed October 10, 2026 · How we review
Part of our buying guide: Hand Tool Gifts: How to Pick One They'll Use, Not One They Already Own
Our Take
The Skeletool CX is Leatherman's answer for people who want pliers in a pocket without the weight of a full-size multi-tool. Leatherman lists seven tools: needlenose and regular pliers, wire and hard-wire cutters, a 154CM stainless steel straight-edge knife, a carabiner that doubles as a bottle opener, and a large bit driver with an extra bit stored in the handle. It weighs 5 ounces, which Leatherman says makes it its lightest pliers-based tool, and every tool locks in place. Leatherman backs it with a 25-year warranty and says it's made in the USA with US and global parts. The trade-off is the short tool list: there's no saw, no scissors, no file and no can opener, and a sheath is sold separately. We haven't tested it ourselves. Pick it if you want a light everyday tool for boxes, small repairs and loose screws; if you need more tools, a full-size Leatherman such as the Wave Plus carries far more.
Specs (This Configuration)
- Tools
- 7: needlenose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutters, hard-wire cutters, knife, carabiner/bottle opener, large bit driver
- Blade
- 154CM stainless steel, plain edge (Leatherman)
- Weight
- 5 oz (Leatherman)
- Extras
- Extra bit stored in the handle; tools lock in place
- Sheath
- Sold separately
- Warranty
- 25 years (Leatherman)
Best For
- Everyday carry when a full-size multi-tool feels too heavy
- Opening boxes, light repairs and tightening loose screws
- Hiking, biking and camping kits where weight matters
Skip If
- You need a saw, scissors or a file — the Skeletool CX has none
- You want heavy-duty pliers for regular trade work
- Local rules restrict carrying a locking blade
What We Like
- Pliers and wire cutters in a 5-ounce tool
- 154CM blade, which Leatherman says resists rust and stays sharp
- 25-year warranty
What To Know
- Only seven tools; Leatherman's larger tools carry many more
- No sheath in the box; the carabiner and clip are the carry options
- Amazon pools one star rating across all Skeletool CX colors
- Our photo shows a Skeletool CX with the classic finish; the Onyx version on this listing is the same design in a different finish
- We found no recent independent hands-on review of this model
What Owners Say
Summarized from real owner discussion in public forums.
- Several long-time owners on knife and gear forums call it their favorite everyday-carry tool: pliers, a blade and a bit driver in a light, clip-on package that's easy to keep on you.
- Bits are the most common complaint. Owners say the spare bit is easy to lose, and one reported the bit-release lever sticking so the driver stopped holding bits; other owners pointed to Leatherman's warranty for that kind of fault.
- For heavier jobs, some owners found the pliers light-duty and the slim handles uncomfortable under pressure, and moved to larger Leatherman tools.
- Early CX units had a part-serrated blade that owners disliked; the current plain edge was welcomed, though one owner found the 154CM edge chipped slightly under hard use.
Pros
- Very light for a pliers-based tool
- Locking tools and a quick-access carabiner clip
- Sold by Leatherman Tool Group on the listing we checked
Cons
- Limited tool selection
- Sheath sold separately
- Bit driver takes only the bits you carry
Alternatives
- Leatherman Skeletool (standard) — The same seven-tool layout with plain stainless steel handles, and it costs less on Leatherman's site. Choose the CX if you want its 154CM blade and carbon-fiber handle inlays.View on Amazon
- Leatherman Wave Plus — Leatherman's 18-tool full-size option for people who want a saw, scissors and files and don't mind a heavier tool.View on Amazon
- Leatherman Wingman — Twice the tools (14) with spring-action pliers and scissors and a package opener, at 7 oz; no bit driver.
Why PriceDropIQ Selected It
Most people don't need 18 tools; they need pliers, a good blade and a screwdriver they'll actually carry. At 5 ounces, the Skeletool CX is light enough to take every day, and Leatherman backs it with a 25-year warranty. If you want a saw or scissors, pick a full-size model.
Before You Buy
- Amazon showed the Onyx finish unavailable from October 22 to 24, 2026; it was back in stock from Leatherman on October 25
- Check that the listing says Skeletool CX, not the standard Skeletool
- Pick the finish you want; the rating is shared across colors
- Check that the seller is Leatherman Tool Group or Amazon.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between the Skeletool and the Skeletool CX?
Both have seven tools. The CX's listings name a 154CM steel blade and carbon-fiber handle inlays; the standard Skeletool has plain stainless steel handles and costs less.
Does it come with a sheath?
No. Leatherman says the sheath is sold separately; the tool has a carabiner clip for carrying.
What warranty does it have?
Leatherman lists a 25-year warranty for the Skeletool CX.
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Reviewed October 10, 2026. Check the current offer, seller, availability, and shipping details on Amazon.
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Product photo by Picanox (CC0 1.0 (public domain dedication)). Full image credit