In this review, we’ll be discussing both the regular Leatherman MUT (military utility tool) and the MUT EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal). These multitools are mostly identical, apart from specific signature tools that each offers to a specific crowd. They were designed for use specifically with the M4/AR15 platform.

Design:

At first glance, it would seem that the Leatherman MUT’s were designed pretty much the same way as most multitools, but as soon as you inspect it, the differences become apparent. It comes shipped standard in a coyote tan molle sheath with an additional wrench in the molle strap. The MUT folds open just like any other multitool, but closing it requires additional force, which may seem weird but one would imagine, is some sort of safety precaution. On the back of the leatherman, you have a clip to attach it to your belt if you want it outside the pouch, but this clip is very stiff and tight so both clipping it on and off, requires significant effort. Let’s discuss the tools both versions have in common first. On the bottom, you have a hammer tool, which can deliver significant power when needed. It also doubles as a cutting hook, which can be used to cut anything from seatbelts to ropes and works great. Just above that, there’s a basic carabiner that also doubles as both a bottle opener and a bolt override tool, which I have never personally seen it used as. Personally I think pulling back the charging handle would be simpler. On the right side, you have an easily accessible locking knife that slides out smoothly with half the blade being edged and half being serrated. This knife is pretty sharp and will suit most of your cutting needs. Pulling the knife is done with a smoothly working locking system. On the opposite side there’s a non-locking bronze carbon scraper. Why bronze? Because bronze is softer than steel and so unlike other systems, you won’t be scratching crucial parts of your rifle while using it. On the back you have a foldable locking serrated edge saw. Under the bronze knife, there is an attachment for cleaning brushes and the like. There’s an additional attachment point on the plier head. Lastly, under the bronze knife, there is a disassembly punch for the regular MUT version and for the EOD version there is a C4 punch. Both of these can be screwed off to make room for some more attachments. When folding open the Leatherman, it reveals a tip for attaching screwdriver heads. Three different parts, with 2 different heads each are shipped standard, with one already inserted. They are held in place by a dual sided locking system with a button that keeps the, from sliding out. The one that comes inserted is shorter than the two others so as to allow for closure of the multitool while inserted. The two others are much longer and can’t be left in except for use. Bits are held in place by a spring that may be hard to work in the beginning but softens over time. Leatherman offers additional heads that may be purchased through their website. On the outer edge of the MUT there is also a rail to keep tools in place temporarily while working. Below the head, the MUT has stranded wire cutters, though those may be tricky to use and may require some practice. Some of you may be used to inserting fingers inside when opening a Leatherman but because of the wire cutters, that may end up being painful. On to the head itself. On the regular MUT you have a tougher cutter that’s meant for bigger wires, while the EOD one is mainly made for stranded wires and precision cuts. You could use it for thicker ones too, but it’ll end up ruining the blade. Above that, the regular MUT has standard pliers while the EOD version has a cap crimper, used for demolition. Above that, both versions have needlenose pliers. The ridges are very minimal though and they don’t have the greatest grip, especially not on smooth objects. Finally, there’s the tool that comes with the pouch which is basically a 3/8 wrench and a front sight adjustment tool or 1/2 wrench. In my experience, this is not at all built with the same amount of quality as the multitool itself (see material)

Material:

Available in both black and silver, we reviewed the black version. The entire leatherman is made of high quality stainless steel and covered in black oxide. In addition, there is of course the bronze knife. The material is excellent all around, yet the bronze knife tends to corrode more than the rest of the Leatherman. While the black oxide does tend to get scraped a little, especially around the plier head, it stays quite well. The most affected parts are the replaceable screw heads which tend to lose their oxide layer faster for some reason. The 3/8 wrench and front sight tool (or 1/2 wrench for the standard)that comes in the pouch is a different story altogether however. Unlike the MUT it always comes shipped in standard stainless steel color. Within a month of use in the field the tool started showing signs of rust and after two months when removing the tool from the pouch, I found that one prong of the front sight tool had simply broken off, INSIDE the pouch. That was quite disappointing. It has to be noted though, that almost every part on the Leatherman can be replaced.

Comfort:

The MUT feels solid and firm in the hand yet is definitely heavier than some other models. Because of the angle they built for the hammer, holding it is not always the most comfortable feel, especially when using the pliers. When using the knife, your fingers get planted right on the edge of the tool rail which with your bare hands isn’t very comfortable.

Storage:

The MUT comes with a high quality sturdy pouch that includes even a secondary small pouch inside and stretchy bands on the side to attach pens or sticklights. When attaching the pouch to a surface that will bend more such as a regular belt or war belt, you may want to remove the extra tool for extra comfort. In addition to the pouch, the MUT can be attached with both the belt clip or the carabiner, though the latter I wouldn’t recommend as a more than temporary solution.

“I always insert my MUT in one of my pistol mag pouches, it’s a perfect fit.”

First Sergeant M.

Versatility:

While both the regular MUT and the EOD version are both great as general multitools, they cater to a specific crowd. Namely Military and LEO and possibly some firearm enthusiasts. This is a tool built for the AR15 platform and someone who doesn’t own one might have no use for many of the tools offered though some of them are universal. In addition, the EOD version obviously caters more to demolition experts.

Price:

The Leatherman runs between $160 to $170 depending on the version which makes these the most expensive Leathermans available. The price can be warranted as mentioned, within its niche, i.e Military and LEO whose use of these tools would be crucial. Civilians may find it too pricey and go for a more standard model. Leatherman does technically offer a lifetime warranty which is nice but if you live outside the US, having to ship it all the way out may be bothersome.

For the right crowd, this may be a purchase you will never regret. The MUT is a hard worker in the field and gets almost everything done and will not disappoint. The MUT is widely considered as one of the best option for Military and LEO around the world, and for good reason. If you have a need for it, this is definitely one piece of equipment you don’t want to miss out on!