Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

Hold Utility in the Palm of Your Hand with the Leatherman Free Collection

Back in 1975, the aptly named Tim Leatherman had just returned from an ill-fated summer abroad. His trip had been beset by malfunctioning rental cars, janky hotel plumbing and other mechanical failures that sound charming in a story, but are real pains in the ass when you’re trying to get somewhere. Like any plucky traveler, Leatherman had done his best to fix each issue with a trusty pocketknife, with only mixed success to reward his efforts.

Related Videos

T2 (left) and T4 (right) Leatherman

The ensuing years saw him experimenting repeatedly to create a tool that would marry the multi-purpose functionality of a pocketknife with the essential function of a pair of pliers. The Leatherman Pocket Survival Tool debuted in 1984 and was an instant success.

Newer iterations of the PST followed in the 90s, and folding knives were introduced to the Leatherman lineup in the 2000s. This summer, after more than 35 years of customer feedback and insight, the company is embarking on its most extensive product launch to date.

K2 (top row) and T4 (bottom row) Leatherman

Leatherman’s brand new lineup, the Leatherman Free series, features a first-of-its-kind architecture built around integrated magnets. This key component makes the tools easier for users to open, handle, and close, eliminating the need for nail nicks. In addition, the tools’ internal locking system utilizes an all-new elastomer that reduces wear and tear. In short, the new Free series tools are durable than any Leatherman products to date.

All the new products are the result of a five-year development process that pairs never-before-used technology with premium materials. The result promises an entirely new experience for multipurpose tool users. And coming from Leatherman, that’s a promise we’re willing to take to the bank.

P2 (left) and P2 (right) Leatherman

Leading off the launch is the Leatherman P-Series, a pliers-based multitool that contains Leatherman’s iconic pliers-based design with enhanced Free technology. Made of lightweight 420 steel, the P-Series is designed so that all its included implements are easily accessible from the outside. Combined with the magnetic technology, a one-handed open of the tool is a cinch—no more prying the tool open with a fingernail. We especially appreciate the satisfying “click” that confirms your tool of choice is ready for use. The P-Series comes in P2 and P4 iterations, featuring 16 and 19 tools respectively.

Other launches in the Free collection include T-Series, made up of the T2 and T4 — both pocket tools designed for everyday carry functionality — and the K-Series consisting of the K4 and K2.

All are made in the company’s Portland, Oregon shop and are backed with the standard Leatherman 25-year guarantee.

Shop the Leatherman FREE Collection

Looking for more multitools? Check out all our favorites here.

Editors' Recommendations

The best casual watches for men (to upgrade your everyday style)
Whatever hobby you love, these timepieces can go with you to the top of the mountain or the bottom of the ocean
Nixon Spectra gold watches for men in style.

A casual watch is the kind of timepiece that pairs excellently with all your outfits -- it’s the kind of accessory that becomes so trusted that, without even thinking, you reach to put it on every morning. Most casual watches serve function over fashion. They are rugged but still stylish. Generally, an excellent casual watch’s characteristics will separate it from higher-end watches.

The first is that a casual watch typically works better as an automatic versus a mechanical -- they’re meant to take some beatings, after all. Second, they shouldn’t be considered luxury items. A snakeskin watch strap and a gaudy twenty-thousand dollar wrist weight won’t work. At the end of the day, a casual watch will serve some good looks, but it’ll mainly function as a tool for your hobbies and your off time. Here are some of the best casual watches that won’t break the bank.

Read more
Review: These men’s pajamas cost $600 — are they worth it?
Sleep in the lap of luxury with this pajama set by Paul Jays
paul jays pajamas review pxl 20230220 072532307

When you were a child, your parents likely bought you a pajama set featuring your favorite superhero or cartoon characters. As you grew older, you ditched those pajamas for boxers or sleeping in the buff. Once you've made it and established yourself as a successful man in the world, the pajama set makes its return to signal that you have arrived.

Of course, you could just buy any old kind of men's sleepwear to go under your robe while you putter around your apartment — or you could don this luxurious pajama set from Paul Jays to wear while wandering your estate, drinking coffee, and pondering your next great move to grow your empire. I tried out the Geo Print Long Set, and from the moment I put it on, my reasons for taking it off numbered zero. Here is an honest review of this luxurious set, the Porsche of men's pajamas.

Read more
How to wear green on St. Patrick’s Day — style tips you need to look your best
Your St. Patrick's Day style guide
style tips for holiday party outfits green and tan

St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland, kidnapped and brought to the island as an enslaved person at 16. He eventually escaped but returned later and is believed to have brought Christianity with him. One thousand years later, he is still celebrated on St. Patrick's Day, the accepted date of his death, March 17. And how do we celebrate it? By wearing the color green on St. Patrick's Day, of course. Wearing the color symbolizes the patriotism of the entire island.

Now, whether you are Irish or not, you can show your support for the island by donning green on St. Patty's Day. However, that doesn't mean you have to go all out and look like you jumped right off the box of Lucky Charms. Here are a few tips to help you celebrate the patron saint of Ireland without sacrificing looking fantastic.

Read more