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A multi-tool might not be something you would use daily, but they are extremely useful to have if you’re in a pinch. If you need to use a screwdriver, pliers, wire strippers, and so much more at the same time then a multi-tool is perfect for the job. In this article, we will see the differences between two outstanding multi-tools, the Leatherman Signal vs OHT.
Leatherman Signal vs OHT – Overview
Leatherman Signal
Key Features
- 19 Tools
- Weighs 7.5 oz
- Safety whistle
- 420HC Combo Knife
Leatherman Signal is the ultimate tool for your every adventure. Powerful, compact, and made of high-quality materials, the Signal will go with you on all of your expeditions. This tool contains 19 different tools that can be used on your hiking or camping trips. From the customizable bit driver to the hammer, there’s a tool for every adventure. With DLC coating on stainless steel and black, the Signal is lightweight and durable. It is perfect for the outdoorsman in all of us.
Read the complete review: Leatherman Signal
Leatherman OHT
Key Features
- 16 Tools
- Weighs 9.9 oz
- 420HC Straight and Serrated Knife
- Strap Cutter
Lightweight, compact, and one-hand operable, Leatherman OHT is perfect for rescue professionals, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts. One tool does it all with spring-loaded pliers and wire cutters for hands-free use. A lifesaving strap cutter and oxygen bottle wrench are built-in. Most importantly, the OHT features a needlenose plier that lets you operate individual pliers without losing your grip. This is the ultimate multitool, and it’s built to last. Made of high-strength 420HC stainless steel, Leatherman OHT provides durability in a compact size.
Read the complete review: Leatherman OHT
Signal vs OHT – The Comparison
With all being said, let’s see how different are these two multi-tools and if there is any kind of similarity between them.
Tools
Both multi-tools have in common the following tools:
- Can Opener
- Bottle Opener
- Saw
Key Differences
- Awl – Signal has an awl with a thread loop while OHT doesn’t have this function.
- Screwdrivers & Bit Driver – Leatherman Signal features a bit driver with interchangeable screwdriver bits and a 1/4” Hex Bit Drive, while OHT has standard fixed small, medium, large, and Phillips screwdrivers.
- Knife – Signal has a 420HC combo knife while OHT has a 420HC straight and serrated blade.
- Strap Cutter – Leatherman OHT has a strap cutter while Signal doesn’t have this function.
- Pliers – OHT features spring-actioned regular and needlenose pliers while Signal has normal needlenose and regular pliers.
- Wire Stripper – Signal features a wire stripper while OHT doesn’t.
- Wire Cutters – Leatherman OHT has spring-actioned premium replaceable wire and hard-wire cutters while Signal has just a standard premium replaceable wire cutter and hard-wire cutters.
- Wrenches – OHT has an oxygen tank wrench while Signal has a 1/4″ and 3/16″ Box Wrenches.
- Other Tools – Leatherman OHT has a #8-32 cleaning rod/brush adapter while Signal features a hammer, a carabiner, a safety whistle, a ferrocerium rod, and a diamond-coated sharpener.
Size & Weight
Leatherman Signal
- Weight: 7.5 oz
- Open Length 6.75 in
- Closed Length: 4.5 in
- Primary Blade Length: 2.73 in
- Width: 1.5 in
Leatherman OHT
- Weight: 9.9 oz
- Open Length 6.6 in
- Closed Length: 4.5 in
- Primary Blade Length: 2.37 in
- Width: 1.6 in
Both multi-tools are quite similar in size and weight with a notable mention that OHT is heavier and Signal features a slightly longer blade.
Warranty
Both are made by the same manufacturer which means that both are covered by Leatherman’s 25-year warranty.
Other Features
- All locking feature – Both multi-tools have this feature which locks up all tools excluding the plier’s head into place.
- One-Hand Operable – Both multi-tools can be used with only one hand, which is great if you got your other hand busy.
- Outside Accessible Feature – Both have this feature that will provide better maneuverability of the multi-tool.
- Removable Pocket Clip – This is a feature that OHT doesn’t have, if you need a pocket clip then Signal is your friend.
- Imprinted Handle Scales – This is a unique feature of the OHT, what does this feature do? It will help you find the right tool if you are in a darker area with limited visibility.
Conclusion
With all being said, the main difference between Leatherman Signal and OHT is that Signal features more tools while weighing less than the OHT. Each multi-tool was designed with a purpose, the OHT was designed to be one-hand operable with functions that you will need daily, while Signal was made for outdoors, camping, or hiking adventures. Overall Leatherman OHT is a much more viable option compared to Signal, but the decision rests in your hands. If you need an easy-to-use multi-tool then pick OHT, if you are looking for a multi-tool to take with you on your trips then pick Signal; it’s as simple as that.
Hi, I’m Johnny, the chief editor at Svetools.com. Since I was a kid, DIY has been my thing – playing around with all sorts of tools, from power tools to classic wrenches. I started the Svetools blog to share my love for DIY and all things a house Handyman should know. Whether it’s product reviews or essential how-to’s articles, I cover it all. Need assistance or have a question? Hit me up using the details on our contact us page.