I've been excited about the new Leatherman Signal for what feels like forever. I've had an original Leatherman since high school that has served me well for many years. I've watched the arrival of other models that are prettier and more functional than mine over the years, but I've always stood by my tried and true. "I don't need a new one. Mine is just fine," I told myself. Then I heard that they were going to make one specifically for backcountry survival. Why did you guys have to go and put me in this position? For the first time, I have to seriously contemplate retiring my Leatherman PST. The Leather Signal is built like a tank and has everything that an avid outdoorsman would need. I decided that the best way to show you this tool would simply be a formidable gallery. A bit of multi-tool porn if you will...

The Leatherman Signal is a well thought design. At first glance you might catch yourself thinking that it has a relatively small number of tools compared to other models. Upon further inspection you'll realize that most of the tools on other models are designed for interacting with human creations, not nature. It makes sense for the Signal to give up real estate to include a whistle and a firestarter. It also makes sense to include a sharpener. It trades a case for a carabiner and a belt clip, which don't mind, because some of my favorite hiking pants have a belt built in, making it almost impossible to use a case. You have the bases covered here for survival. You can keep a sharp edge on your blade and have the ability to start a fire. When the Signal hits the shelves I think that most outdoor enthusiasts will end up deciding that it's a better fit for their lifestyle than other options out there.