Leatherman Wingman Review

Leatherman's Wingman tool is an out-of-the-park swing at other competitors offering “budget” multi-tools. On this model, Leatherman brought their long lineage of success to a less expensive offering. We've tested it over a few years, and our initial impressions hold up. We continue to be impressed by the value and function in many ways. Our original test model is still in use “in the family,” and product longevity at this price point can be credited to the high-end approach of Leatherman.

This is an excellent tool for storing around the house, in the car, or camping box for repairs and improvements in situations where you won't have a full toolbox. Though its frame is on the larger end of what a casual user may opt for, in many ways, the affordability and tool set optimize this multi-tool for most users. Only those with extensive construction and handiwork tasks need more sophisticated or burlier tools.

Performance Comparison

Functions

All but one of our favorites has scissors built-in – it's a feature that users expect in a modern multi-tool. While the scissors vary widely in their effectiveness, none beat the set on the Wingman. The scissors on this tool are the largest in our test; they are precise and sharp, and accessible externally. The same cannot be said about the scissors on most other models, which are often significantly smaller, buried inside the tool, and have a less responsive spring action. All of our tested tools with scissors, including the Wingman, have riveted hinges, so the user cannot adjust the scissors at all. A screw hinge that allows users to fine-tune tension over years of wear and tear would greatly improve this already great pair of scissors.

In another relatively minor complaint – especially at this price point – the Wingman comes with a single blade equipped with a hybrid straight and serrated edge. The steel is good enough, and the edge arrives sharp, but we wish it were just a straight blade. Or, better yet, omit something else and include two dedicated blades, one straight and one serrated. While discussing the Wingman's blade, it must be noted that it is considerably shorter than other options and shorter than what would fit in the handle. There's a full 3/8" inch of space in the Wingman handle that the blade is not using. In many ways, these small gripes directly explain the lesser cost. We couldn't go on-and-on about the low price of the Wingman without pointing out what it'll cost you.

A unique feature of the Wingman is the package opener. This small, unassuming, sharpened hook is purpose-built to tear into those plastic “blister-packs” so many small electronic devices come in. One can cut into the package without worrying about damaging the contents. We use it mainly to cut the packing tape on cardboard boxes from our, admittedly, many online shopping sprees. It is nested inside the tool, requiring a bit more time to access. But for many, this feature alone will seal the deal.

Ergonomics

The Wingman has a modern, asymmetrical, and contoured shape. The scissors and main blade can be engaged without folding out the pliers. These outer tools lock into place with a “liner-lock” style tab. The inner tools engage with positive and clear fingernail slots. Our testers like that the Wingman comes equipped with a secure pocket clip, though it would have been even better if the clip were turned 180 degrees. As it is, pulling the knife out to use the main blade requires flipping the tool in the user's hand first.

The spring-loaded pliers are the biggest winner here, though. They make extended usage and repetitive tasks far less tiring on the hands, and many users may even prefer to use these over a dedicated pair of pliers.

Portability

While the Wingman used to ship without a belt sheath as a cost-cutting measure, the newest iteration now ships with this carrying option, only adding to the value of this tool. As mentioned above, the pocket clip is a welcome addition; we prefer to use it this way. Anyone on our test team accustomed to carrying a pocket knife in a pants pocket easily transitioned to carrying the Wingman the same way.

The Wingman is also equipped with a few strategically placed holes in the frame designed for a lanyard cord. The ends of the Wingman nest together well, but the edges can be a bit pointy, which may cause some wear and tear on whatever pocket or bag you carry it in. Still, with the clip, the tool shouldn't be swimming around in your pocket too much, which is the handiest feature a multi-tool can have related to portability.

Construction Quality

The full-steel construction of this Leatherman model inspires confidence and will last you a long time. The blade will need to be sharpened, like any other knife, but sharpening the straight blade is straightforward. However, resurfacing the serrated portion requires more skill, special equipment, or professional assistance. Consider this additional complication in your purchase decision if you anticipate significant and extended cutting. In short, we had no issues with the construction quality and durability of the Wingman, and that's the best endorsement we can give.

We don't make many generalizations, but budget products from manufacturers of high-end consumer goods are generally well-made and well worth it. Leatherman cut costs with the materials and functions of the Wingman, but they didn't make any compromises with the construction quality and thoughtfulness of the design.

Should You Buy the Leatherman Wingman?

The Wingman has been our everyday carry since being reintroduced to it. It's not the top of the line, and it can be a little bulkier than is preferable if you're not wearing denim most of the time. But it has a few features that are incredibly useful and fairly unique — the large scissors and spring-loaded pliers are reason enough to choose this over similarly sized but more expensive options. If those sound like what you want in a multi-tool, there is none better than the Wingman.

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