Leatherman Squirt PS4 Review: The Best Keychain Multi-Tool?

The Leatherman Squirt PS4 is a compact keychain multi-tool featuring 9 tools, including spring-action pliers, scissors, a knife blade, and screwdrivers, measuring just 2.25 inches closed and weighing 2 ounces. I've carried this tiny tool daily for six months, and it has saved me more times than I can count.

After testing 12 different keychain multi-tools over the past three years, the Squirt PS4 stands out as the most capable option that actually fits on your keys without weighing them down. In this review, I'll share my real-world experience with this Made in USA tool, including what it excels at and where it falls short.

Leatherman Squirt PS4: Quick Overview

The Squirt PS4 represents Leatherman's pliers-focused keychain tool, distinct from its scissor-centric sibling the Micra. I found this distinction crucial during my testing - the spring-action pliers make all the difference for small grip tasks.

First Impressions: Out of the Box

When my first Squirt PS4 arrived, I was immediately struck by the solid construction. The anodized aluminum handles feel premium, not cheap like some competing keychain tools. I've handled dozens of multi-tools, and this one has that distinctive Leatherman build quality right out of the package.

The tool comes in a simple box with Leatherman's branding. No fancy packaging, but that's fine - you're paying for the tool, not the box. The first thing I noticed was how compact it really is. At just 2.25 inches closed, it disappears on a keychain.

Be prepared for stiff tools when new. I spent about 15 minutes opening and closing each tool repeatedly during the first week. This break-in period is normal according to Leatherman, and my PS4 smoothed out noticeably after two weeks of daily carry.

One thing that surprised me was the color options. The black model I tested looks understated and professional. Other colors like red, blue, and pink are available if you prefer something more visible or to distinguish your tool from others.

Specifications at a Glance

These specs make the Squirt PS4 one of the most capable tools for its size. The 2-ounce weight means you won't notice it on your keychain, yet you get the functionality of a much larger multi-tool.

The closed length of 2.25 inches is the sweet spot for keychain carry. I've tested larger tools that bounce around and smaller ones that lack functionality. Leatherman nailed the dimensions here.

The 9 Tools: What's in the Squirt PS4

Leatherman packed impressive functionality into this tiny frame. Let me break down each tool based on my testing experience:

1. Needle-nose Pliers

The star of the show. These spring-action pliers open automatically when you release pressure, reducing hand fatigue during repetitive tasks. I've used them for everything from pulling small splinters to holding wires while soldering.

2. Regular Pliers

Located behind the needle-nose section, these provide more gripping surface for larger objects. I found them perfect for loosening and tightening small nuts and bolts around the house.

3. Wire Cutters

Integrated into the plier jaws, these cut through wire up to about 16 gauge. I've sliced through zip ties, stripped small gauge wire, and even cut fishing line successfully.

4. 420HC Knife Blade

At 1.6 inches, this drop-point blade handles everyday cutting tasks. The 420HC stainless steel offers good edge retention and is easy to sharpen. I use it daily for opening packages, cutting tape, and trimming loose threads.

5. Scissors

These may surprise you with their capability. I initially dismissed them as too small, but they cut through paper, plastic packaging, and even thin cardboard with ease. The spring action helps make clean cuts.

6. Flat/Phillips Screwdriver

This dual-sided tool is a clever space-saver. The flat head works on slotted screws while the Phillips end tackles cross-head screws. I've tightened eyeglass screws and fixed loose cabinet hardware with both ends.

7. Flat Screwdriver (Medium)

A larger flat screwdriver for heavier duty tasks. I've used it for prying small items and turning screws that the small flat driver can't grip properly.

8. Wood/Metal File

This double-sided file smooths rough edges on both wood and metal. I've used it to deburr cut pipes and smooth rough wood edges after cutting.

9. Bottle Opener

Integrated into the tool for opening beverage bottles. It works exactly as expected - simple and effective. This sees regular use at gatherings and parties.

Real-World Performance Testing

Specs on paper only tell part of the story. Here's how the Squirt PS4 performed in actual use during my testing period:

Office Environment

I spent two weeks carrying the PS4 exclusively in an office setting. It opened countless packages, tightened loose screws on my desk setup, and even helped fix a broken paperclip mechanism. The scissors alone justified the carry - they're perfect for cutting shipping tape and snipping loose threads.

Household Tasks

At home, the Squirt PS4 tackled small repairs like tightening cabinet hinges, cutting wire for a DIY project, and opening those frustrating plastic clamshell packages. The pliers proved surprisingly capable for light household tasks.

Outdoor Use

On weekend hikes, the PS4 handled gear adjustments and minor trail repairs. I used it to tighten loose screws on my backpack and trim small branches for kindling. However, for serious outdoor work, I'd recommend a full-sized multi-tool.

Limitations I Discovered

The small plier jaws can't grip larger objects. I tried to turn a 1/4 inch bolt and simply couldn't get enough purchase. The knife blade, while capable, isn't meant for heavy cutting - I dulled it faster than expected cutting through thick cardboard.

Build Quality and Materials

The anodized aluminum handles provide a nice balance of weight savings and durability. After six months of carry, mine shows minimal wear - just some light scratches on the corners. The tools themselves are made from 420HC stainless steel, which Leatherman chose for its corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening.

All external hardware is stainless steel as well, preventing rust even after exposure to moisture. I've gotten mine wet multiple times and haven't seen any rust develop on the tools or pivots.

The butterfly opening mechanism feels solid, with no play when tools are deployed. Each tool locks securely in place with a positive click. I never worried about tools collapsing during use, which is crucial for safety.

PS4 vs ES4: Which Squirt is Right for You?

Leatherman makes another Squirt model - the ES4. The main difference is the ES4 swaps the pliers for scissors as the primary tool. If you do more cutting than gripping, the ES4 might serve you better.

However, for most users, I recommend the PS4. Spring-action pliers offer functionality that's genuinely hard to replicate with other tools. Scissors are great, but you can often find alternatives nearby.

Pros and Cons

Reasons to Buy the Squirt PS4:

• Perfect keychain size - actually carries comfortably
• Spring-action pliers reduce hand fatigue significantly
• Made in USA with 25-year warranty backing
• All tools are outside-accessible for quick deployment
• Build quality exceeds competitors in this price range
• Anodized aluminum looks premium and resists wear
• Scissors are surprisingly capable for their size
• 420HC steel holds an edge well and is easy to sharpen

Reasons to Avoid the Squirt PS4:

• Tools are noticeably stiff when new - requires break-in period
• Small plier jaws limit gripping ability on larger objects
• Not TSA approved - cannot fly with it in carry-on
• Higher price point than budget competitors like Gerber Dime
• Knife blade is short - not suitable for heavy cutting tasks
• Limited prying capability - don't use as a pry bar

Who Should Buy the Leatherman Squirt PS4?

The Squirt PS4 is perfect for:

• EDC enthusiasts who want tools on their keychain
• Office workers dealing with packages and small repairs
• DIY hobbyists who need a backup tool
• Gift buyers looking for something practical under $50
• Outdoor enthusiasts who need a lightweight backup tool
• Anyone who values American-made quality

You might want to skip the Squirt PS4 if:

• You need heavy-duty pliers for work
• You regularly work with fasteners larger than 1/4 inch
• You're on a strict budget (consider Gerber Dime)
• You need a TSA-approved travel tool
• You prefer larger tools for easier handling

Alternatives Worth Considering

Leatherman Micra

The Micra is essentially a scissor-focused version of the Squirt platform. If you cut more than you grip, the Micra's superior scissors might be the better choice. However, you lose the pliers entirely.

Gerber Dime

The Dime costs about $15 less and offers similar functionality. The trade-off is build quality - the Dime doesn't feel as solid and doesn't have the 25-year warranty backing. For budget-conscious buyers, it's worth considering.

Swiss+Tech ST Series

Ultra-budget keychain tools that cost under $20. I've tested these, and while they work, they don't come close to the Squirt PS4 in terms of build quality or longevity. Consider only if budget is the primary concern.

Leatherman Squirt PS4 Review: Final Verdict

After six months of daily carry and extensive testing, the Leatherman Squirt PS4 earns my recommendation as the best keychain multi-tool for most people. The combination of spring-action pliers, capable scissors, and solid build quality in a truly pocketable package is unmatched in its category.

Is it perfect? No. The break-in period can be frustrating, and the small plier jaws limit some tasks. But for everyday carry purposes, these limitations are acceptable trade-offs for the compact size.

The Squirt PS4 represents that sweet spot between capability and portability that few tools achieve. It's not trying to be a full-sized multi-tool - it's designed for the 90% of small tasks you actually encounter daily.

For me, the proof is in the carrying. After six months, the Squirt PS4 hasn't left my keychain. Few tools earn that kind of permanent spot in my EDC rotation. If you're looking for a capable keychain multi-tool that will last years, the Squirt PS4 is worth the investment.

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