How to Maintain and Care for Your Leatherman
A Leatherman multi-tool is built to last — but like any precision tool, it rewards basic maintenance. Regular cleaning and lubrication keep the pivot points smooth, the blades sharp, and the tool performing reliably after years of field use. This guide covers everything you need to know to keep your Leatherman in top condition.
Cleaning Your Leatherman
After wet or muddy use: Rinse the opened tool under fresh running water to remove dirt and debris from the pivot points and tools. Work the individual tools back and forth while rinsing to flush out trapped grit. Shake out excess water and dry thoroughly — either with a cloth or by leaving it open in a warm, ventilated spot. Don't leave a wet Leatherman closed for extended periods.
Regular cleaning: Open all the tools and wipe down with a dry cloth. For stubborn grime in the pivot points, a soft brush (an old toothbrush works well) with warm soapy water cleans effectively. Rinse, dry, then oil.
After salt water or beach use: Salt accelerates corrosion even on stainless steel. Rinse thoroughly in fresh water immediately after any salt water exposure, dry completely, and apply oil before storing.
Lubricating Your Leatherman
Light lubrication keeps pivot points moving smoothly and protects against corrosion. Apply a small drop of light machine oil (3-in-1 oil, sewing machine oil, or similar) to each pivot point with all tools opened. Work the tools back and forth to distribute the oil, then wipe off any excess.
Avoid: WD-40 as a long-term lubricant — it's a water displacer, not an oil, and will dry out and attract dirt. Use it for a quick rust prevention measure if nothing else is available, but follow up with proper oil.
Frequency: After every extended wet-weather use. Otherwise, once a season is sufficient for regular use.
Sharpening the Blades
Leatherman's Wave+, Charge+, and other full-size tools have knives and saws that can be sharpened with standard sharpening tools.
Pocket knife stones: A small ceramic or diamond rod is practical for field touch-ups. The Leatherman Signal includes a diamond sharpener built in for field use.
At home: A whetstone or guided sharpening system gives a better edge than a pocket rod. The Charge+'s 154CM blade responds particularly well to proper sharpening and holds a refined edge.
The saw: The Leatherman saw can be sharpened with a triangular file on a workbench, though in practice most users replace the tool rather than sharpen the saw.
Scissors: Leatherman scissors can be sharpened by running a fine stone along the inside (flat) face of each blade. If they're severely damaged, Leatherman's service programme can replace the scissors under warranty.
Storage
Store your Leatherman in its sheath when not in active use — this protects the tool from scratches and environmental exposure. Avoid storing in damp conditions (toolbox drawer with condensation, damp pack pockets) for extended periods.
For long-term storage, a light coat of oil on exposed metal surfaces prevents oxidation.
Warranty and Service
All Leatherman tools come with a 25-year warranty covering manufacturing defects. For warranty claims or service in NZ, contact Leatherman through their authorised NZ channels. Most pivot point wear and blade issues are covered — damage from misuse (using the tool as a pry bar, blade from side loading) is excluded.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I oil my Leatherman?
After any extended wet use, and otherwise once or twice a year for regular users. If pivot points feel stiff or gritty, that's the cue to clean and oil. A well-maintained Leatherman should open smoothly with light finger pressure.
Can I put my Leatherman in the dishwasher?
No — dishwasher heat and detergent will damage the handle scales, rust any carbon steel components, and degrade pivot lubrication. Hand wash only with mild soap and warm water.
My Leatherman blades are rusty — what do I do?
Light surface rust on stainless steel can be removed with fine steel wool (0000 grade) and a drop of oil. Work gently in the direction of the steel's grain. For significant rust or damage, Leatherman's 25-year warranty may cover the issue — contact the NZ service centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I clean a Leatherman multi-tool?
Rinse with warm water to remove mud, grit, and debris. For saltwater exposure, flush thoroughly and dry completely. Use a brush to clean pivot points and between tool layers. Dry with a cloth and allow to air dry completely before storing.
How do I lubricate a Leatherman?
Apply a small drop of lightweight oil (3-in-1, mineral oil, or a dedicated tool oil) to each pivot point and blade pivot. Open and close each tool several times to work the oil in, then wipe off the excess. A well-lubricated Leatherman opens smoothly and resists corrosion.
How do I sharpen Leatherman blades?
Use a ceramic rod, diamond sharpening file, or a whetstone suited to the blade's steel. Leatherman sells a dedicated sharpening tool. Maintain the original bevel angle for best results. The Charge+ uses premium S30V steel that holds an edge longer than the Wave+ but takes more effort to sharpen.
How do I stop my Leatherman rusting?
Keep it dry — moisture is the main cause of rust on multi-tool steel. After use in wet conditions, dry thoroughly and apply a light oil coat. For storage, keep in the sheath in a dry environment. If surface rust appears, clean with a fine abrasive and re-oil.
How often should I service my Leatherman?
Clean and oil after any trip involving saltwater, sand, or heavy mud. For regular use, a light oiling every few months is adequate. A well-maintained Leatherman should operate smoothly for decades — the 25-year warranty backs up the build quality.
Where can I buy Leatherman tools and accessories in NZ?
Dwights stocks the full Leatherman range including sheaths, bit kits, and accessories. Browse at /collections/nextool-multi-tools.