Yes, you can absolutely close a Leatherman tool safely. Closing a Leatherman tool involves checking the Leatherman tool locking mechanism to ensure all blades and tools are fully retracted and secured before folding them down.
Safety First: Best Practices for Multi-Tool Use
Before we look at the steps to close your tool, it is vital to focus on safety. Multi-tools are very handy, but they have sharp parts. Following good tool safety procedures keeps you and your tool in good shape. Always treat every tool, even when closed, like it is sharp.
Preparing to Close Your Leatherman
You must ensure all moving parts are safe before you start folding. Rushing this step can lead to cuts or damage to the tool.
Inspecting Deployed Tools
Look at every tool that is currently open. Are the pliers open? Is the knife blade out?
- Retract all non-locking tools first. This usually means screwdrivers, awls, or can openers. Gently push them back into the handle until they click or seat fully.
- Handle locking blades carefully. If you have a model with a locking knife blade, you must disengage the lock. This is part of how the Leatherman tool locking mechanism works.
Disengaging the Blade Lock
Different Leatherman models use different locks (liner locks, frame locks, or locks on the spine).
- Locate the lock: Find the small metal piece or indentation that holds the blade open.
- Apply gentle pressure: Push or slide this lock away from the blade’s spine.
- Move the blade: Once the lock is released, gently move the blade inward toward the handle. Do not let it snap shut.
The Process of Folding Tools Inward
Folding tools must go back in the correct order. This prevents tools from jamming against each other. Always fold the largest tools in first if possible, or follow the layout design of your specific model.
Closing Foldable Attachments
Many Leatherman tools have several layers of tools folded between the handles.
- Start with the largest pieces. For most standard models, this means closing the main knife blade first (after disengaging its lock).
- Work toward the center. Next, close things like the saw, the scissors, or the file.
- Keep hands clear of the center line. As tools meet in the middle, make sure your fingers are not pinched between them. This is key for folding knife safety.
Dealing with Stiff Hinges
Sometimes a stiff Leatherman hinge makes closing hard. This often happens when the tool is new or dirty.
- Do not force it. Forcing a stiff hinge can bend the metal or break the locking system.
- Apply light lubricant. A drop of light oil can help. See the section later on Leatherman pivot lubrication.
- Work the joint gently. Open and close the stiff tool several times slowly. This helps spread the lubricant and works out any grit.
Securing the Tool Closed
Once all internal tools are folded back inside the handles, the final step is making sure the handles themselves close tightly together.
Aligning the Handles
The two halves of the Leatherman body must line up perfectly for a secure Leatherman closure.
- Check the alignment: Look at the two handles. Are they flat against each other?
- Adjust the tools: If they do not meet, one of the inner tools is likely sticking out slightly. Go back one step and check the fit of every tool inside. Even a tiny bit sticking out will stop the handles from closing flat.
- Press gently: Once aligned, press the handles together firmly but smoothly. You should hear or feel a slight click as the pieces seat together.
The Role of the Pliers Head
On many models, the pliers head acts as the main closure point when the tool is shut.
- Ensure the tips of the pliers are fully nested.
- If your model has pliers that do not fold flat (like older Wave models), you might need to make sure the pliers handles are lying completely flat against the body of the tool.
Maintaining Your Leatherman for Easy Closure
A well-maintained tool closes much easier than a neglected one. Regular care helps prevent stiffness and rust. This directly impacts how smoothly you can execute the steps to close the tool.
Pivot Lubrication is Essential
Clean pivots are happy pivots. Proper Leatherman pivot lubrication reduces friction significantly.
| Lubricant Type | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mineral Oil | Light cleaning, quick use | Safe, easy to find, needs frequent reapplication. |
| Synthetic Knife Oil | Long-term protection | Offers better rust resistance. |
| Specialty Pivot Lube | Heavy use, best performance | Designed specifically for hard use on hinges. |
How to Lubricate:
- Open the tool fully.
- Apply one small drop of oil right where the tool pivots against the handle.
- Work the tool back and forth ten times.
- Wipe off any excess oil that squeezes out. Excess oil attracts dirt.
Cleaning Grit and Debris
Dirt, sand, or pocket lint can stop the Leatherman tool locking mechanism from working right or make closing difficult.
- Use compressed air to blow dust out of the joints.
- Use a soft brush (like an old toothbrush) dipped in mild soap and water to clean the outside.
- Rinse well and dry immediately. Never let your tool soak in water for long periods.
Addressing a Broken Lock: Repairing Leatherman Lock
If you cannot close the tool because the lock is broken or bent, you need to address this before closing it safely.
- Warranty Service: Leatherman has an excellent warranty. If a lock mechanism is broken, the best course is sending it in for repairing Leatherman lock. Do not try heavy field repairs on the locking system.
- Temporary Fixes: If a liner lock is bent slightly, very gentle manipulation with pliers might fix it, but this is risky. Always err on the side of caution to avoid damaging the frame.
Specialized Closing Procedures for Different Models
Leatherman makes many different tools. The exact process for multi-tool blade closing can change based on the model you own.
Closing the Leatherman Wave and Surge
These models feature exterior access blades.
- Knife Blade: Since the knife blade is accessible when closed, it is the first thing you must close. Disengage the liner lock and fold it completely into the handle.
- Internal Tools: Close the file, saw, and any other internal tools.
- Scissors: The scissors are often bulky. Fold them down last so they fit cleanly between the handles.
- Pliers: The handles naturally close when the internal tools are recessed.
Closing the Leatherman Signal
The Signal has a unique rescue hook and an awl that need special attention.
- Awl: Make sure the awl is fully seated. It sits deep inside one handle.
- Fire Starter Rods: If you use the fire starter, ensure the rods are stored correctly and do not prevent the handles from meeting.
Closing Tools with Back Locks (e.g., Some older models or specialized releases)
If your tool uses a lock on the back spine of the blade, the process is slightly different than a liner lock.
- Push the tab or lever on the spine inward or upward.
- Once the lock releases, carefully pivot the blade closed.
Storing Your Leatherman Safely
Once the tool is closed and secure, proper Leatherman tool storage ensures it stays in good shape until its next use.
Using Sheaths and Pouches
Most Leatherman tools come with a nylon or leather sheath.
- Dryness: Only store the tool in its sheath when it is completely dry. Moisture trapped in a sheath can lead to rust, especially on carbon steel components.
- Fit: Ensure the tool closes fully before putting it in the sheath. Forcing a half-closed tool into a tight sheath can damage the sheath or jar the internal tools loose.
Long-Term Storage Tips
If you won’t be using your Leatherman for several months:
- Clean it thoroughly.
- Apply a slightly heavier coat of protective oil (like Rem Oil or similar).
- Store it in a cool, dry place away from temperature swings.
Interpreting Tool Movement and Resistance
When you close your tool, pay attention to how it feels. This feedback tells you about its condition.
Smooth Movement vs. Gritty Feeling
Smooth movement means the pivots are clean and lubricated well. A gritty or rough feeling signals dirt in the pivot area. Addressing this prevents premature wear on the joints.
Checking for Play (Wobble)
After closing, pick up the tool and gently try to wiggle the blades that are now tucked inside. If you feel significant wobble, it might indicate:
- The pivot screw needs tightening (see below).
- A tool isn’t fully seated inside the handle.
Adjusting Pivot Tightness
Leatherman tools are often held together with Torx screws.
- Caution: Only adjust these if you have the correct, high-quality Torx bits. Using the wrong size can strip the screw head.
- Tightening: If there is too much play when the tool is open, slightly tighten the pivot screw on that side. Tighten just a quarter turn at a time.
- Loosening: If the tool is too stiff even after lubrication, slightly loosen the screw. Remember, a little bit of friction is necessary for maintaining Leatherman pliers integrity and preventing accidental opening.
Final Review: Ensuring a Secure Closure
Before you walk away or put the tool in your pocket, do one final check. This quick review confirms you have met all safety requirements.
The Three-Point Check
- Lock Check: Did every open tool (especially the knife) have its lock positively disengaged?
- Seating Check: Are all tools fully retracted into their channels, allowing the handles to touch?
- Handle Check: Do the handles meet flush against each other, resulting in a firm, secure Leatherman closure?
If you answer yes to all three, your Leatherman tool is safely closed and ready for storage or carrying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is my Leatherman tool hard to close?
A stiff Leatherman hinge is usually caused by dirt, grit, or lack of lubrication. First, try cleaning the pivot points thoroughly. If that fails, apply a small drop of light oil for Leatherman pivot lubrication and work the joint several times. Forcing it can damage the Leatherman tool locking mechanism.
Can I use WD-40 to close my Leatherman?
While WD-40 will temporarily loosen a stiff hinge, it is generally not recommended for long-term use on multi-tools. WD-40 is a water displacer, not a long-lasting lubricant. It can attract dust later, leading to more problems. Use specialized knife oil or mineral oil instead.
What should I do if the liner lock on my knife blade won’t move?
If you cannot disengage the liner lock for folding knife safety, stop immediately. If it is a new tool, it might just need breaking in. If it’s an older tool and the lock seems stuck, check for debris blocking it. If physical force is needed, send the tool in for warranty service, as forcing a lock risks damaging the entire Leatherman tool locking mechanism.
How do I keep the pliers from rattling when the tool is closed?
Rattling usually means the pliers handles are not fully seated against the body. Check if any internal tools are slightly extended, preventing a flush fit. Sometimes, slightly tightening the main pivot screws helps take up excess play, leading to a tighter overall secure Leatherman closure.
Is it okay to leave the knife blade partially open?
No. This is a major violation of tool safety procedures. Always fully close and lock (if applicable) any sharp tool, like the knife blade, before storing the multi-tool. Leaving blades partially open increases the risk of accidental cuts and can weaken the lock mechanism over time.