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The New Leatherman Curl Multi-Tool includes the option for replaceable bits

Leatherman's latest EC multi-toolPhoto/Leatherman
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Leatherman just launched its latest addition to a long, proud line of multi-tools with its new 15-in-1 Curl. It’s 4 inches and 7 ounces of 100% stainless steel utility. And, sure, that’s a lot of power in a compact package, but that’s not where it stops. Leatherman engineered the Curl with what it calls “bit kit compatibility.” Leatherman-style multi-tools can be very handy in addition to your bike multi-tools but typically haven’t worked well as a replacement. This may change that.

Let’s dive into the specs.

Leatherman Curl scissors
Photo/Leatherman

The Leatherman Curl Multi-Tool

Feature Set

  • Closed Length: 4 in. (10 cm)
  • Primary Blade Length: 2.9 in. (7.37 cm)
  • Weight: 7.5 oz. (212 g)
  • Material: 100% stainless steel
  • Features: one-hand opening blade, removable pocket clip, outside-accessible features
  • Nylon sheath included
Leatherman's latest EC multi-tool
Photo/Leatherman

Built-In Toolkit

  • 420HC knife
  • Awl with thread loop
  • Bottle opener
  • Can opener
  • Diamond-coated file
  • Hard-wire cutters
  • Large bit driver
  • Medium screwdriver
  • Needlenose pliers
  • Regular pliers
  • Ruler (8 in./19 cm)
  • Spring-action scissors
  • Wire cutters
  • Wire stripper
  • Wood/Metal file

Bit Kit Compatibility of the Leatherman Curl

leatherman flat bit driver
The flat bit driver keeps the tool compact, but doesn’t allow for use of standard bits – without an adapter.

Bit kit compatibility means users can adapt the Curl multi-tool to their specific needs with add-ons from Leatherman’s accessories collection. One caveat to the bit compatibility is that to make this tool as compact as possible, Leatherman uses their own flat bits meaning you will have to buy the Leatherman Bit Kit Set rather than use standard 1/4″ bits.

Leatherman ratchet bit adapter
Either the Ratcheting Driver or Bit Driver will make the Curl easier to use for bike adjustments and allow for standard 1/4″ bits.

However, there is a way around this if you purchase the Ratchet Driver accessory. This little device plugs into the flat bit driver on the multi-tool and allows for flat bits or standard 1/4″ bits to be used. It also extends the bit away from the tool body making it easier to get into tight spaces. Leatherman also sells a non-ratcheting Bit Extender for $20 that also allows for use of 1/4″ bits. So if you’re planning on replacing your bike multi-tool with this, you are probably best off buying the tool and either the Ratchet Driver or Bit Driver Extender and picking up your choice of bits.

Currently, the brand offers two bike-geek friendly accessories, the Ratchet Driver ($30 MSRP) and the 42-bit Bit Kit Set ($25 MSRP).

Ratchet Driver Adapter

  • 3.26 in. (8.28 cm)
  • 1.26 oz (35.7 g)
  • Magnetic bit holder (Leatherman flat bits or standard 1/4″ bits)
  • Three-way ratcheting (forward, reverse, locked)
  • Universal bit driver compatibility (fits pocket tools with large bit drivers)

Bit Kit Set

  • Slim, light, pocket-sized
  • Includes 21 double-ended bits (42 total)
  • A list of the bits included set is available here

Leatherman Curl

Leatherman Curl Availability and Pricing

The Curl ($80 MSRP), Rachet Driver adapter ($30 MSRP), and Bit Kit ($25 MSRP) are available through Leatherman’s website and REI.com. As with all Leatherman products, each is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee and a 25-year warranty.

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Jon
Jon
2 years ago

I’ve had a Leatherman Wave in my motorcycle toolkit for years now and one warning: the flat bits work great for small- and medium-sized jobs but, to no one’s surprise, they aren’t stout enough at their larger sizes. E.g., it comes with a 6 mm hex bit but, because it has to be so narrow (3.15 mm!), it’s not unreasonable to break a bit when trying to loosen a fastener that hasn’t been budged in a year of hard riding. I keep a couple real hex keys in the seat bag for the larger sizes.

Still a very useful tool, though, and this looks like a smaller and lighter version of the Wave.

MTB4ME
MTB4ME
2 years ago

Nice, I own one but….what.does.this.have.to.do.with.cycling?! Was this meant for ANGLINGRUMOUR!, perhaps?

Martin Stuart Buck
Martin Stuart Buck
2 years ago

Not for sale yet in NZ, though it’s on the Leatherman.au site for $149.95, roughly $100 cheaper than the Wave+. It has the best Wave tools plus the awl. So frustrating. I want one. Now.

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