Leatherman Signal

Here’s a case where big features are pushed into a small footprint with some tools shining forth brighter than others.  A full 19 functions compress into 7.5oz of cutting, wrench, sawing, driving and opening capability.  Of significant note is the ferro firestarting rod that provided testers with much-needed back-up in recent South American travels.

In addition, the hammering surface, integrated with a reliable carabiner clip, is a major advantage with Signal. Yes, sometimes direct impact is employed to unfreeze a locked-up water pump, cable winch or snowshoe binding. Depending upon the function being employed, Signal handles solidly at 4.5” closed with a 2.73” blade length.  Straight-up cutting power proved formidable in test scenarios, as did slot-head screwdriver torque even burrowing into tight-grained wood. 

Leatherman pitches it as a day hiker’s essential as well as an expedition member’s best friend.  Active Junky puts into into the always-keep-it-close category, more for year-round utility than as an Alaskan bush pilot’s survival tool.  A beautiful bonus:  Clipped-on, diamond-coated sharpener for blades – and battered fish hooks