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Leatherman’s “Built Different” Knife Debut
Leatherman is evolving. Long known for its multi-tools, the company has now officially stepped into the premium knife arena with a bold new product line launched under the “Built Different” name. This new series features three fixed-blade knives and two folders—all crafted at Leatherman’s headquarters in Portland, Oregon.
What Makes These Knives “Built Different”
This launch is more than just a product release. Leatherman established an entirely new production space to design, tool, and manufacture these knives in-house. The focus is on top-tier craftsmanship and premium materials.
Highlights include:
- Blades made from MagnaCut steel for superior edge retention and corrosion resistance
- Fixed-blade models with full-tang construction and G10 handles for durability and grip
- Folding knives featuring Cerakoted 416 stainless-steel handles and an all-new Compression Wedge Lock
- All products covered by Leatherman’s 25-year warranty
The Fixed-Blade Collection
Pioneer – With a 10-inch overall length and a 5-inch tanto blade, the Pioneer is built for demanding outdoor use. Its flat saber grind and full-tang design make it ideal for chopping, prying, or even batoning wood. It includes a sleek hybrid leather and Kydex sheath. Retail price: $300.
Photo: Leatherman Pioneer Knife
Trac – This 8.93-inch knife features a 4.2-inch drop point blade and is designed for foraging, field-dressing, and general camp tasks. It uses a hollow saber grind and comes with a full-grain leather sheath that allows both vertical and scout carry. Retail price: $300.
Photo: Leatherman Trac Knife
Rustle – Designed for outdoor cooking, the Rustle sports an 8.3-inch overall length and a 4-inch Santoku-style blade with a full-flat grind. It excels in food prep and comes with a practical Kydex sheath. Retail price: $280.
Photo: Leatherman Rustle Knife
The Folding Knives
Blazer – Measuring 7.3 inches when open, this folder includes a 3.15-inch drop point blade and just 12 total components. It uses a hollow saber grind and features Leatherman’s new Compression Wedge Lock, ball-bearing pivot, and thumb tab deployment. Retail price: $300.
Photo: Leatherman Blazer Knife
Glider – Also 7.3 inches long, the Glider offers a 3-inch sheepsfoot blade and a design nearly identical to the Blazer. It includes the same advanced lock and pivot system but with a blade optimized for controlled slicing. Available in Jet Black, Okra, and Alpine colorways. Retail price: $300.
Photo: Leatherman Glider Knife
Final Thoughts
Leatherman’s new knife lineup clearly aims to compete with the best in the premium blade space. With high-end materials, expert craftsmanship, and practical design features, these knives deliver both form and function.
The fixed-blade models are ideal for backcountry, survival, or culinary tasks, while the folders bring innovation to everyday carry. Combined with Leatherman’s decades-long reputation and robust warranty, this new line opens a bold chapter in the company’s legacy.
Photos: Product and lifestyle imagery provided by Leatherman
Frequently Asked Questions about Leatherman’s New Knives
1. What is the “Built Different” line by Leatherman?
Leatherman’s “Built Different” line is their first standalone knife series, featuring premium fixed-blade and folding knives. These knives are made in Portland, Oregon using high-end MagnaCut steel and designed for outdoor, EDC, and culinary use.
2. Are Leatherman’s new knives made in the USA?
Yes. All knives in the Built Different series are designed, tooled, and manufactured in Leatherman’s Portland, Oregon facility.
3. What kind of steel is used in Leatherman’s knives?
The entire Built Different knife line uses CPM MagnaCut steel—a top-tier, corrosion-resistant steel known for excellent edge retention and toughness.
4. Are these knives covered by a warranty?
Yes. All Leatherman knives are backed by their 25-year limited warranty, the same coverage they offer on their multitools.
5. What’s the difference between the Blazer and Glider knives?
Both are folding knives with similar construction and locking systems. The Blazer features a drop point blade, while the Glider has a sheepsfoot blade for more controlled cutting tasks.
6. Can I use these knives for camping and survival?
Absolutely. The Pioneer and Trac fixed-blade models are built for rugged outdoor use, including firewood prep, food prep, and general camp tasks.
7. What’s special about the Rustle knife?
The Rustle is designed for backcountry food prep. Its Santoku-style blade and full-flat grind make it ideal for slicing vegetables, meat, and other camp cooking tasks.
8. Do the folding knives come with tools?
While they aren’t multitools, the folders do include a paracord lanyard with a bead that holds Torx bits—useful for adjusting the knife’s thumb tab or pocket clip.
9. Where can I buy Leatherman’s Built Different knives?
You can purchase them directly from Blackbe.ar or through other authorized dealers. Inventory may vary depending on the model.
10. Are these knives good for everyday carry (EDC)?
Yes. The Blazer and Glider are designed for practical daily use, with secure locking mechanisms, compact size, and premium steel for reliability.
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