The Leatherman Arc is the first pliers-based multi-tool built around CPM MagnaCut, the premium powder steel that had been reserved for dedicated folding knives. It grew out of the Leatherman Garage's 40th anniversary tool of 2023, serialized to 1,983 units and sold out in ten minutes, a story told in how Tim Leatherman invented the American multi-tool. Two versions carry the model today within the full Leatherman lineup: the original Arc and the Bronze Cerakote Arc Talos.
MagnaCut balances edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance better than the stainless steels multi-tools have traditionally used. The Arc's 2.76 inch drop point blade carries a black DLC coating for added protection and opens by thumb stud, a knife-forward departure from Leatherman's traditional thumb hole. Leatherman sharpens MagnaCut blades free, which is worth knowing if you run this tool hard. Our comparison of every major knife steel explains what MagnaCut brings.
Every feature on the Arc is outside-accessible and opens with one hand through Leatherman's magnetic FREE architecture, with no fingernail nick to hunt for and no fighting spring tension. Every implement except the plier head locks when deployed, and the unlocking lever is simple enough to run blind after a few sessions. In our hands, the pliers open more smoothly than on any other Leatherman we've handled.
The tool set is identical across both. The original Arc runs black and silver coated stainless handles, and the Arc Talos adds a Bronze Cerakote finish over the same stainless frame for an earthy look and extra abrasion resistance. Both measure 4.25 inches closed and weigh 8.6 ounces, so choose by finish.
The Arc carries 20 tools, including needlenose and regular pliers, replaceable wire and hard-wire cutters, spring-action scissors, diamond-coated and wood and metal files, a saw, awl, pry tool, impact surface, and large and small bit drivers. It ships with one double-ended bit but no sheath or full bit kit, both found in Leatherman Sheaths and Accessories. For the closest MagnaCut alternative, see the Wave Alpha in the Leatherman Wave lineup.