Tools for Dads and Grads

It’s the season we celebrate dads and grads—two groups who have plenty of fans. Two groups who can benefit from a gift that allows them to be self-sufficient, able to solve problems, and ready for adventures of all sorts. A high-quality, durable multi-tool will do that for years to come.

Tim Leatherman had the idea for the first-ever multi-tool—equipped with needle-nose pliers—when he and his wife were traveling around Europe as young twentysomethings on a budget. They often found themselves needing to fix leaky plumbing and the fussy Fiat 600 they bought in the Netherlands.

For the past four decades, Leatherman has pioneered the design of ever better and more capable tools, enabling people to tackle everything from minor repairs to saving their own lives (true). The storied brand continues to design and manufacture knives and multi-tools in Portland, Oregon, and every Leatherman comes with a 25-year limited warranty. What better gift to give the dads in your life and the grads heading off on their next adventures, whatever they may be?

For Father’s Day

Enable Dad to tackle DIY jobs and outdoor adventures by putting fix-it options in the palm of his hand

ARC ($250): The most premium tool on the market, the ARC puts 20 tools at your fingertips and is one-hand operable. From a knife blade made of MagnaCut steel, which maintains its sharp edge and resists corrosion, to a suite of features including a bit driver, awl, wire cutter, and needle-nose pliers, the ARC sets the standard as the top-of-the-line tool.

Wave+ ($120): The bestselling multi-tool of all time features 18 tools, many of which—including scissors, screwdrivers, a bottle opener, and a wire stripper—can be accessed with the tool in its folded and closed position. Open it up, and the Wave+ equips Dad with tools like a saw, knife, and diamond-coated wood/metal file.

Rebar ($90): Perfect for the DIY dad who wants a tool that’s full-featured but a little more compact, the Rebar packs 17 tools—including two kinds of pliers, an electrical crimper, and wire stripper—into a four-inch frame. All 17 tools lock into position and won’t fold under pressure. A range of color options allows for personalization.

Signal ($140): The Signal is ideal for dads who camp, fish, and backpack. Measuring 4.5 inches, this multi-tool features 19 tools, including a fire-starting ferro rod, safety whistle, and built-in hammer that comes in handy for anchoring tent stakes. Bonus: Find just the right look for every dad with a new-for-summer range of color options.

For Graduation

Nothing says “ready for the next adventure” like graduation—equip new grads for the journey with a high-performance multi-tool

Micra ($55): Since when did 50 bucks put so many functional items in the palm of your hand? The ten-tool Leatherman packs down to a mere 2.5 inches and can clip to a keychain. Tools like tweezers, a nail file, and spring-action scissors make this a no-brainer gift for any grad.

Bond ($70): At just 5.8 ounces and with a contoured, ergonomic design for comfort, the Bond is a great choice for grads who appreciate sleek style and easy carrying. But there’s no compromise on function: The Bond is packed with 14 tools and comes with a matching carrying sheath.

Skeletool CX ($90): This tool somehow manages to be both minimalist and totally capable, with a 2.6-inch knife blade, a large bit driver, and five other tools. A nice touch most grads (and probably dads) will appreciate: The carabiner loop doubles as a bottle opener. The Skeletool CX is available in an array of colors.

Wingman ($70): The Wingman packs 14 tools into a 3.8-inch package and includes a combo straight-edge and serrated knife that enhances versatility. Designed with everything a grad may need for jobs around the house, apartment, condo, or campsite, it’s the perfect wingman.

Founded in 1983 by Tim Leatherman, Oregon-based Leatherman Tool Group is the world’s largest manufacturer of high-quality multipurpose products. Built upon three principles—unwavering perseverance, ingenious design, and the ability to save the day—Leatherman has empowered people around the world to solve problems big and small. Leatherman is proudly based and manufactured in Portland, Oregon, where the brand’s factory is located in the same building as the company headquarters. Learn more at leatherman.com.