Leatherman Skeletool Review (2026): CX vs. RX vs. Damasteel

Quick Answer: Best Leatherman Skeletool for 2026

For most people, the Leatherman Skeletool CX is the pick — a 7-tool, 5-ounce multitool with a locking 154CM straight-edge blade, carbon-fiber-reinforced handles, and a design built around carrying only what you actually use. First responders and EMTs should look at the Skeletool RX, which swaps in a serrated blade and a carbide glass-breaker tip. The Skeletool Damasteel is a since-discontinued limited-edition collector’s piece — gorgeous, but no longer sold new and not the pick for daily carry.

Last updated: August 17, 2026 · Originally published September 8, 2017

Comparison: Skeletool CX vs. RX vs. Damasteel

Our Picks, In Detail

1. Leatherman Skeletool CX — Best All-Around

The Skeletool line built its reputation on doing less, better: instead of cramming in 18 tools you will rarely touch, the CX carries exactly seven — needlenose pliers, wire cutters, hard-wire cutters, a locking 154CM straight-edge knife, a bit driver, a carabiner/bottle opener, and a pocket clip — at just 5 ounces. Every tool is accessible from the outside without unfolding the whole multitool, which is the detail that makes it disappear into daily carry instead of feeling like a chore to use. At $99.95, it remains one of the best lightweight multitools you can buy.

2. Leatherman Skeletool RX — Best for EMT/First Responder Use

Same 5-ounce, 7-tool platform as the CX, but purpose-built for emergency work: a deeply serrated 154CM blade for cutting clothing, seatbelts, and other fibrous material, plus a carbide glass-breaker tip built into the frame. It is priced the same as the CX ($99.95) — the choice between them comes down entirely to whether you need a straight edge or a rescue-oriented serrated one.

3. Leatherman Skeletool Damasteel — Rare Collector’s Edition

Leatherman partnered with Sweden’s Damasteel to produce a limited run of Skeletools with a pattern-welded Damasteel blade over the standard CX platform — the same skeletonized aluminum handle, the same 7-tool layout, but a blade that looks like nothing else in the lineup. This run has been discontinued for some time and is no longer sold new; it now shows up occasionally on the secondary market (eBay, collector forums) at a premium over the original price. If you can find one in good condition, it is a genuine collector’s piece rather than a daily-carry recommendation — for actual everyday use, the CX or RX will serve you better and are easy to replace if lost.

How to Choose the Right Skeletool

• Straight edge vs. serrated is the real decision. The CX and RX are otherwise identical — pick based on whether you cut more rope/cardboard (CX) or fibrous material in a rescue context (RX).
• The Skeletool is intentionally minimal. If you regularly need saws, scissors, or a full screwdriver set, look at a larger Leatherman like the Wave Plus or Arc instead — see our full Best Multitool for Everyday Carry guide for the complete lineup.
• Bit storage matters. Both current models store Phillips and flathead bits in the handle, so you are not carrying loose bits separately.
• The Damasteel edition is a collectible, not a buying recommendation. Expect to pay a real premium over MSRP on the secondary market, and expect wear consistent with a used, discontinued tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Leatherman Skeletool CX and RX?

The CX has a straight-edge 154CM blade for general cutting tasks. The RX has a serrated 154CM blade plus a carbide glass-breaker tip, and is designed specifically for EMTs and first responders. Both cost $99.95, weigh 5 ounces, and share the same 7-tool layout otherwise.

Is the Leatherman Skeletool Damasteel still available?

No — the Damasteel edition was a limited run that has since been discontinued by Leatherman. It occasionally appears on the secondary market (eBay, collector sites) at a premium over its original price, but it is no longer sold new.

How many tools does the Leatherman Skeletool have?

Seven: needlenose pliers, regular and hard-wire cutters, a locking knife blade, a bit driver, a carabiner/bottle opener, and a pocket clip. Phillips and flathead bits store inside the handle.

Is the Skeletool a good everyday carry multitool?

Yes — at 5 ounces it is one of the lightest full-pliers multitools Leatherman makes, and its outside-accessible tools mean you rarely need to unfold the whole thing. If you want more tools (saw, scissors, larger driver set) in exchange for more weight, a larger Leatherman like the Wave Plus is worth considering instead.

James Nicholas

NFA Firearms Manufacturer & Professional Gunsmith The XDMAN has a talent for taking complex firearms subject matter and breaking it down into an easy-to-understand format that all experience levels can relate to. James is an 07/02 NFA Firearms Manufacturer, a Professional Gunsmith with over 20 years of experience, and a Firearms Writer, Photographer and Firearms Expert. Connect with him on Instagram, X, and Facebook as @therealxdman.

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