With great fanfare, Leatherman introduced the Leatherman MUT (Military Utility Tool) at the 2010 SHOT (Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Tradeshow) earlier this month.
The Leatherman MUT is the first tool of its kind. It was developed through a collaboration between Leatherman, one of the world's leading multi-tool companies, and U.S. Army Sgt. First Class Aaron Hampton and Sgt. First Class Robbie Johnson, two well-known military and competitive shooters. The creation and design of the MUT was undertaken only after extensive work with those who would use it most.
This tool is the first multi-tool that functions as both a tactical and practical tool for military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters. It was designed for the following maintenance on the M-16/AR-15 family of rifles: optic mounting and adjustment; bolt override malfunctions; take down and retaining pin removal; firing pin retaining pin removal; carbon removal on bolt carrier, bolt and firing pin; cleaning rod and brush attachments/use.
Models: The Leatherman MUT comes in three models - the Utility, the black Utility, and the EOD. The Utility versions will feature 18 tools and a 3 piece bit kit. The EOD will have 17 tools and a 3 piece bit kit. All models weigh in at 11.2 ounces, measure 5 inches closed, and have a blade length of 3 inches.
Extras: The MUT will come with a wrench accessory featuring 1/2" and 3/8" 12-point heads for adjustments to optics systems. Built to military performance specifications, the ballistic nylon MOLLE sheath features extra wrench and bit kit accessory pockets. When not in use, the sheath can hold a double-stack 9mm clip.
Retail Details: The Leatherman MUT will be available in September of this year. Leatherman anticipates a retail price of $180 for the Utility models and $195 for the EOD version. If this pricing holds true, Swiss Knife Shop will offer the Utility versions for $149.85, and the EOD for $159.85.
Order Your MUT: Join our Leatherman MUT Email List, and you will be notified when the MUT is available for ordering. (Swiss Knife Shop will not share your contact information with any outside sources, or send emails pertaining to any other products or product lines.)
FEATURES:
The centerpiece of the MUT is the strongest regular/needlenose pliers (1) Leatherman has ever made. The 420 stainless steel pliers are heat-treated for strength and ground for precision. The EOD version of the MUT features a cap crimper in place of the regular pliers.
The MUT's regular and hard-wire (fuse-wire on the EOD) cutters (2) are made from 154CM stainless steel, and are replaceable. A quick turn with a Torx #8 allows them to be removed and sharpened in the field.
The replaceable carbon scraper (3) combats the primary enemy to an M16/AR15 - carbon deposited from the direct impingement gas system. Over time, carbon build-up can harden and degrade the performance of a weapon system. This replaceable carbon scraper removes carbon that isn't necessary on the bolt, bolt carrier and firing pin. It is designed with enough surface area to reach and quickly clean all areas of the bolt carrier group. Its bronze construction prevents scars from scraping.
There's always a need for a punch in weapons maintenance. From pushing takeout pins to removing detaining pins, the 1/8" replaceable firearm disassembly punch (4) on the MUT can handle it all. This punch is removable for use alone, or with the hammer end of the MUT. The threads are also designed for adapting cleaning rods and brushes, increasing your leverage and reach for a more thorough cleaning. The EOD model features a C4 punch in place of the firearm disassembly punch.
The replaceable cutting hook (5) offer great leverage for cutting zip ties, cord or clothing. For safety, when the tool is in the closed position, a bit in the driver blocks access to the over-sized cutter opening. The bit can also be left out for those who require more frequent access to this feature.
The bolt override is the most difficult malfunction to clear; often times in the most life-threatening situations. With the Leatherman MUT bolt override tool (6), the malfunction can be cleared quickly and without disassembly. Simply remove the magazine, insert the bolt override tool onto the bolt carrier, and pull sharply to the rear.
The Leatherman MUT has been met with high praise from military, police and gun enthusiasts.
Join our Leatherman MUT Email List, and you will be notified when the MUT is available for ordering. (Swiss Knife Shop will not share your contact information with any outside sources, or send emails pertaining to any other products or product lines.)