The Leatherman Bond EDC Multi-Tool

The original Leatherman PST (Pocket Survival Tool) survived a decade and a half until 2004 when the upgraded PST II was launched. Such is its iconic status, a 35th Heritage Anniversary model was finally released.
As some will know, many multi-tools that have come along since have followed the PST’s basic blueprint, the latest being the Leatherman Bond. It’s a lightweight, UK EDC (Everyday Carry) multi-tool that packs 14 essential features into a compact design.

Inspirational
Interestingly, the inspiration behind the first multi-tool was due to the co-founder of Leatherman, Tim S. Leatherman, requiring a Boy Scout-type knife with pliers as he and his wife travelled Europe and the Middle East in 1975. Unbelievably, they undertook this journey in a very old and unreliable, Fiat 600. To keep it going, they regularly had to use a simple pocketknife to repair it. This experience and acquired knowledge are the reason why Leatherman multi-tools continue to feature many of the same fundamental tools, all centred around a pair of pliers.

Non-locking
Measuring 4” in the closed position, and weighing 5.8 oz, the all-stainless-steel workhorse holds a non-locking 2.6” 420HC knife blade, making it a UK-legal EDC tool. When in the open position, you have direct use of a pair of needle nose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutters, and hard-wire cutters. It’s at this point you can access tools stored inside the handles, which include the knife blade, wood/metal file, awl with thread loop, Phillips screwdriver, large flathead screwdriver, small flathead screwdriver, can opener/bottle opener, and a deployable lanyard hole. All of these tools deploy easily from their closed position using thumb nicks or lugs.

Conclusion
The Bond comes from a long pedigree of multi-tools, and despite the lack of a lock-out mechanism, the knife and other tools it holds are very secure when deployed. This is what is termed a friction lock and that is why the tool can be classed as an everyday carry. In that respect, the precision manufacture of the tool must be considered, and in this case, it has been made to the highest of tolerances. Also, the Bond’s handles are rounded, ensuring that your grip is comfortable while working with the pliers or tools. It’s perfect for first-time users, whether you’re a hunter, outdoorsman, or hobbyist. It comes with a heavy-duty Nylon sheath, which is a bonus because there’s no pocket clip, and it carries an incredibly pocket-friendly price tag.