Hands-On: Leatherman’s USA-Made Glider Knife Knocks It Out of the Park

Today, Leatherman is the first name that comes out of our mouths when it comes to multi-tools, but the ubiquitous Oregon-based brand was truly born out of necessity. After a trip to Europe with his wife in the mid-’70s, Tim Leatherman found himself frustratingly without a reliable pocket tool that could fix his car and a leaky hotel sink. He soon sketched out a concept that would become the Mr. Crunch prototype, featuring plenty of actually useful functions, including, most importantly, a pair of pliers.

Finally launching in 1983, Leatherman debuted with the Pocket Survival Tool (PST), a 14-function multi-tool that truly changed the game. Having sold tens of millions of units, the company has become the go-to multi-tool firm for its USA-made devices that focus on construction quality and utility, while still being able to hide in your pocket throughout the day.

Yet, after over four decades of legacy, Leatherman has yet to release a collection of premium standalone knives — until now. Recently dropping a set of five knives, including three fixed blades and two folders, the brand has outdone itself through its innovative approach to traditional craftsmanship, but without entirely reinventing the wheel. We were fortunate enough to get hands-on with the Glider pocket knife to see first-hand exactly what makes it special.

Compared to Leatherman’s other new folder (the Blazer, which is more versatile), the Glider is better for those who prioritize utility. Locked up with a patent-pending Compression Wedge Lock system (more on that below), the 3-inch sheepsfoot style blade is made from a premium MagnaCut stainless steel with a hollow saber grind for solid slicing power and balance, while the spine of the blade has been fully-radiused for comfort. 

Unlike other brand’s pocket knives, which use anywhere from 20 to 35 parts, the Glider uses just 12 components, showcasing the Leatherman’s commitment to engineering efficiency. Stretching 4.3” when closed, the faceted handle is milled from solid stainless steel billets, features a pair of visible fasteners, and is internally cored to save weight (this thing is just 3.7oz total) and further improve balance with the blade. Affixed to the scales is a reversible, deep-carry pocket clip for right- and left-handed individuals, while the back features a lanyard loop. A lanyard bead is included and fits the brand’s flat and standard quarter-inch bits.

We got hands-on with the versatile Okra green colorway, but the Cerakote-finished handles are also available in Jet Black and Alpine. Like all of Leatherman’s products, the Glider is made in the USA.

As opposed to a traditional frame lock or liner lock, Leatherman’s patent-pending Compression Wedge Lock, which is pretty innovative, essentially uses a button that automatically slides inwards when you open the blade, locking the blade securely and clicking when fully deployed. When it’s time to fold it back up, you simply press the button down and put pressure on the blade. This was incredibly easy to do one handed and eliminates the risk of a knife accidentally folding in use since the button is at the top corner of the handle, away from where you would naturally hold it.

Aside from the clean look, the Glider feels substantial in my hand, especially where steel could have potentially been too slippery. The Cerakote finish and contouring helped with grip, which was key when doing various tasks, from opening boxes to wire cutting. I loved the weight of the knife as well. Relative to the 7.3-inch length, the Glider wasn’t too heavy or too light, with exceptional balance on front and back end. 

Cutting was extremely precise, as to be expected considering the MagnaCut blade, but the modified shape of your classic sheepsfoot actually helped get some extra stabbing capability at the tip while being able to maximize contact with the solid 3-inch blade length. 

Lastly, the Glider stored away seamlessly in my pocket thanks to the slim construction and excellent tension of the pocket clip. I kept the lanyard affixed to the back end to make it a bit easier to access the knife quickly.

All in all, Leatherman’s first go at a premium folding knife feels like they’ve been doing it for years, if not decades. The blade and handle materials on the Glider feel appropriately top-tier, especially considering the $300 price point, plus the innovative new locking system is so easy to use, it’s a wonder why no one has thought of it before. More than just a pretty face, the good-looking exterior of the pocket knife is merely complementary to the solid performance of the Glider itself. From a premium MagnaCut blade to a contoured steel handle, this is one of the most well-balanced knives we’ve spent time with.

Available in three colorways, the Glider is priced at $300 from Leatherman’s website.

Recap

Leatherman Glider

Leatherman recently launched it’s first serious attempt at premium knives, featuring this Glider folder, which features MagnaCut steel, balanced engineering, and a patent-pending locking system.

Learn More: Leatherman