Leatherman for Hunting NZ — Best Models for the Field
A quality multi-tool is standard kit for NZ hunters — field repairs on gear, cutting cord, cleaning game, and a dozen other tasks where having the right tool without rummaging through your pack matters. Leatherman's NZ hunting range covers everything from a compact belt-worn everyday tool to the Signal's dedicated survival features.
What Hunters Need in a Multi-Tool
Blade quality: A hunting multi-tool needs a sharp, maintainable blade for game preparation and general field use. The Charge+'s 154CM blade is the best option in the Leatherman range for edge retention.
Plier strength: NZ bush hunting frequently involves gear repairs, wire fences, and mechanical tasks where robust pliers matter. Leatherman's full-size tools — Wave+, Charge+, Surge, Super Tool 300 — are meaningfully stronger than compact models.
Carrying options: Belt carry is standard for hunting. Leatherman's nylon, leather, and MOLLE sheaths allow flexible carry options alongside your other hunting kit.
Reliability: 25-year Leatherman warranty. These tools are built to last.
Best Leatherman Models for NZ Hunting
Leatherman Wave+ (RRP $319.99) — Best All-Round
The Wave+ is the most popular Leatherman for hunting use in NZ — full-size, 18 tools, outside-opening blades for quick access, and a well-proven track record. The outside-opening knife blades mean you can access the blade one-handed without fully opening the handles — a practical advantage in the field. Available in standard and black finish.
Best for: All-round NZ bush hunting. The go-to recommendation.
Leatherman Charge+ (RRP $439.99) — Best for Blade Work
For hunters who use the blade regularly — game preparation, cutting rope and webbing — the Charge+'s 154CM main blade holds an edge significantly longer than the Wave+'s 420HC steel. The extra cost is justified if you use the blade hard.
Best for: Hunters who rely on the blade frequently, game preparation.
Leatherman Signal (RRP $399.99) — Best Survival Features
The Signal adds a fire starter, emergency whistle, and diamond-coated sharpener to the standard Leatherman multi-tool package — plus a removable safety cutter. For hunters who want a dedicated survival-oriented tool alongside their hunting kit, the Signal's additional safety features are practical.
Best for: Remote backcountry hunting, hunters who want survival features, off-grid use.
Leatherman Surge (RRP $399.99) — Best Heavy-Duty
The Surge is Leatherman's largest, most robust full-size multi-tool — the biggest pliers, the strongest construction, and designed for heavy work. For hunters who need a genuinely heavy-duty tool for gear repairs and demanding tasks.
Best for: Heavy work, gear repairs, hunters who want maximum tool strength.
Leatherman Sidekick (RRP $199.99) — Best Budget Option
The Sidekick delivers reliable Leatherman performance at an accessible price — a practical choice for hunters who want a quality multi-tool without the premium Wave+ cost.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers, a first Leatherman.
Leatherman Wingman (RRP $199.99) — Best Lightweight Option
Similar to the Sidekick in price but with a slightly different tool layout. Both are practical budget options for hunters who want Leatherman reliability without the full Wave+ investment.
Sheath Options
Leatherman's sheaths allow flexible carrying:
- Premium Nylon Sheath (RRP $39.99) — Standard belt carry, fits most full-size Leatherman tools
- Leather Sheath (RRP $49.99) — Traditional leather belt carry
- MOLLE Sheath (RRP $54.99) — MOLLE-compatible for hunting packs with MOLLE webbing
- Heritage Sheath (RRP $79.99) — Premium leather with snap closure
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Leatherman is best for game preparation?
The Charge+ for edge retention — the 154CM blade holds a working edge through repeated cutting tasks better than the Wave+'s 420HC. For hunters who primarily use the tool for tasks beyond game prep, the Wave+ is the more practical value choice.
Can I take a Leatherman multi-tool hunting in NZ?
Yes — Leatherman multi-tools with locking blades are legal to carry in NZ for legitimate outdoor use including hunting. The blade locks are a safety feature, not a legal concern for hunting use.
What's the best way to carry a Leatherman when hunting?
Belt carry in a nylon or leather sheath is the most practical for hunting — easily accessible without removing your pack. The MOLLE sheath suits hunters running packs with MOLLE webbing. Most hunters carry their Leatherman on the opposite hip to their knife.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Leatherman for NZ hunting?
The Leatherman Signal (RRP $399.99) is the top pick for NZ hunting — the fire starter and emergency whistle add genuine value for backcountry hunting trips, alongside the full multi-tool capability. The Wave+ (RRP $319.99) is the more versatile everyday option if survival-specific tools are less of a priority.
What Leatherman tools are most useful for NZ hunting?
Pliers (wire fencing repairs, removing hooks), knife blade (cutting cord, game preparation), scissors (cutting tape, blister treatment), screwdrivers (scope adjustments, gear repairs), and the Signal's fire starter for emergency fire-lighting in wet NZ conditions.
Is a Leatherman or a fixed-blade knife better for hunting?
They serve different purposes — a fixed-blade knife (Muela, Morakniv) handles field dressing and skinning more effectively. A Leatherman covers the repair and emergency tool work a fixed blade can't. Most NZ hunters carry both: a fixed blade for game work and a multi-tool for everything else.
Can I use a Leatherman for field dressing game in NZ?
The blade on a Leatherman Wave+ or Signal is adequate for basic field dressing on smaller game. For deer and larger animals, a purpose-built fixed-blade hunting knife gives better control and a longer blade. The Leatherman's value in hunting is its multi-function utility, not as a primary butchering tool.
Does the Leatherman Signal's fire starter work in wet NZ conditions?
Yes — a ferrocerium fire starter works when wet, unlike matches or lighters that can fail in NZ's damp conditions. It's one of the reasons the Signal is preferred over the Wave+ for serious backcountry hunting. Pair it with dry tinder for reliable fire-lighting.
Where can I buy Leatherman tools for NZ hunting?
Dwights stocks the full Leatherman range. Browse at /collections/nextool-multi-tools.