Leatherman vs Victorinox — Which Multi-Tool Brand Is Better?
Leatherman and Victorinox are the two multi-tool brands at Dwights — and the two most commonly compared in NZ. Both make excellent tools. But they're designed around different philosophies and suit different use cases.
The Core Difference
Leatherman is built around pliers. The pliers are the primary tool — everything else folds out from the handles. Leatherman tools are heavier and more robust, with full-size pliers that can handle real mechanical work.
Victorinox is built around a knife. The Swiss Army Knife is a folding knife first — pliers (where included) are a secondary feature on larger models, and are lighter and less capable than Leatherman's. Victorinox tools are typically lighter, more compact, and more pocket-friendly.
When Leatherman Wins
You need pliers. If you regularly need pliers — crimping wire, gripping components, bending metal, pulling things — Leatherman's full-size pliers are in a different category to Victorinox's. The Wave+, Charge+, and Surge have genuinely capable pliers built for real work.
Heavy-duty field use. For NZ hunting and tramping where gear repairs involve real mechanical force, Leatherman's construction is more suited to demanding use.
Outside-opening blades. Leatherman's Wave+, Charge+, and Signal have outside-opening blades — accessed without unfolding the handles. More practical for quick access to a knife or scissors.
Our recommendation: Wave+ (RRP $319.99) or Charge+ (RRP $439.99) for users who need capable pliers and a full-feature tool.
When Victorinox Wins
Everyday carry and travel. Victorinox tools are lighter, smaller, and more pocket-friendly than Leatherman. The Classic SD (RRP $44.99) or Climber (RRP $69.99) fit in a key pocket; the equivalent Leatherman is a belt tool.
You primarily need a knife and small tools. If the blade, scissors, screwdrivers, and file are your primary needs and pliers are secondary, Victorinox's tool layout is better for this use case.
International travel. Some airlines don't allow multi-tools in carry-on regardless of blade length. Victorinox makes blade-free travel models (no blade versions) that can go in carry-on — Leatherman doesn't have an equivalent for full-size tools.
Price. The Victorinox range starts at $44.99 for a practical everyday tool. Leatherman's entry point is $159.99 for the Rev.
Our recommendation: Victorinox Fieldmaster (RRP $129.00) or Climber (RRP $69.99) for everyday carry and light use.
The Honest Answer
For NZ tramping and hunting where you need genuine pliers: Leatherman. For everyday carry, travel, and situations where a compact lighter tool is more useful than plier capability: Victorinox. Many serious outdoor users own both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Leatherman and Victorinox have the same warranty?
Both offer 25-year warranties on their multi-tools. Both brands honour warranty claims in NZ. The warranty covers manufacturing defects — not normal wear or blade damage from misuse.
Which is better for tramping?
Leatherman for multi-day tramping — the pliers are genuinely useful for tent repairs, stove maintenance, and equipment adjustments. A compact Victorinox (Camper or Climber) is a practical backup or a lighter alternative for trampers who don't want to carry a full Leatherman.
Can you get Leatherman and Victorinox serviced in NZ?
Both brands have NZ distributors. Leatherman tools can be returned for service under the warranty. Victorinox services through its NZ distributor. For everyday maintenance — sharpening and cleaning — both tools are serviceable at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Leatherman and Victorinox?
Leatherman tools are built around full-size pliers — they're plier-first tools with additional blades and implements. Victorinox (Swiss Army Knife) tools are built around a knife blade with folding implements — no full pliers in most models. For outdoor use where grip, wire work, and gear repairs matter, Leatherman is the more practical choice. For a compact, lightweight knife-forward tool, Victorinox suits.
Is Leatherman or Victorinox better for NZ tramping?
For NZ tramping, Leatherman is the more useful tool. The full-size pliers handle tent repairs, stove maintenance, and gear work that Victorinox can't match. The Wave+ (RRP $319.99) covers the widest range of tramping scenarios in a single tool.
Does Dwights stock Victorinox?
Yes — Dwights stocks a range of Victorinox Swiss Army knives including the Camper, Huntsman, Ranger, and Fieldmaster, among others. For plier-based multi-tool work, Leatherman is the better choice; for a compact, lightweight knife-forward tool for everyday carry and travel, Victorinox is an excellent option.
Which is more durable — Leatherman or Victorinox?
Both are high-quality tools built to last. Leatherman's 25-year warranty backs up their durability claims. For demanding outdoor use, Leatherman's fully stainless construction is generally considered more robust. Victorinox is excellent for everyday carry and lighter outdoor use.
What is the best alternative to a Leatherman?
NexTool offers high-spec multi-tools at lower price points — the Flagship Pro is a well-regarded alternative to the Wave+ with competitive tool count and quality. Dwights stocks a full NexTool range alongside Leatherman.
Where can I buy Leatherman and Victorinox tools in NZ?
Dwights stocks the full Leatherman, NexTool, and Victorinox ranges. Browse at /collections/nextool-multi-tools.