Leatherman Squirt PS4 Review: A Discontinued Keychain Legend
There’s something special about a tool that’s always there when you need it.
After carrying a Leatherman Squirt PS4 on my keychain for over three years, I’ve lost track of how many times this tiny multi-tool has saved the day.
The Leatherman Squirt PS4 is one of the best keychain multi-tools ever made, featuring 9 tools including spring-loaded pliers, scissors, a knife blade, three screwdrivers, a bottle opener, and wire cutters in a compact 2.25-inch package weighing just 2 ounces.
Leatherman discontinued the Squirt PS4 in Fall 2023, making it available only on secondary markets at significantly inflated prices.
This review comes from years of real-world use and extensive research into what made this tool so special, plus whether it’s worth tracking down in 2026.
Product Overview & Specifications
The Leatherman Squirt PS4 was introduced in 2002 as part of Leatherman’s keychain-sized multi-tool line.
The PS4 designation stands for Pliers with Scissors and 4 additional tools, distinguishing it from the P4 and S4 variants.
What set the PS4 apart from competitors was its spring-loaded pliers.
This feature made one-handed operation possible and significantly improved usability compared to non-spring-loaded alternatives.
The Squirt PS4 remained in production for over 20 years until Leatherman discontinued the entire Squirt line in Fall 2023.
Keychain Multi-Tool: A compact multi-tool designed to be carried on a keyring, providing essential tools in a minimal package for everyday tasks and emergency repairs.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length Closed | 2.25 inches |
| Length Open | 5.75 inches |
| Weight | 2.0 ounces |
| Materials | 420HC stainless steel, anodized aluminum handles |
| Tools Included | 9 tools in 1 |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Original MSRP | $40-50 |
| Current Market | Discontinued – secondary market only ($60-333) |
Current Market Status
Since discontinuation in Fall 2023, the Squirt PS4 has become a collector’s item.
Prices on eBay and Amazon Marketplace range from $60 to over $300 for new-in-box units.
This represents a 50-600% price increase over original retail.
Leatherman no longer manufactures or supports this model directly.
Warranty service may be limited for units purchased on the secondary market.
Detailed Product Review
Leatherman Squirt PS4 – A Discontinued Keychain Legend
Professional Incandescent Retractable Cord Reel...
Status: Discontinued Fall 2023
Size: 2.25in closed, 2 ounces
Tools: 9 including pliers, scissors, knife
Made in USA with 25-year warranty
+ The Good
- Ultra-compact keychain size
- Spring-loaded pliers
- Excellent build quality
- Made in USA
- 9 tools in tiny package
- Great for light EDC tasks
- The Bad
- Discontinued with inflated prices
- Small size limits heavy-duty use
- Knife blade is relatively short
- Limited leverage from small handles
The Squirt PS4 earned its reputation through legitimate performance, not marketing hype.
Owners consistently reported 5-15 years of reliable service from these tools.
The spring-loaded pliers are genuinely useful for small gripping tasks.
I’ve used mine to fix eyeglasses, tighten loose screws, cut wire, open packages, and make countless small repairs.
The build quality is what you’d expect from Leatherman’s USA-made era.
420HC stainless steel provides good edge retention and corrosion resistance.
The anodized aluminum handles add color options while keeping weight down.
Who Should Buy?
The Squirt PS4 is ideal for EDC enthusiasts who want backup tools always available.
It’s perfect for people who don’t want to carry full-sized multi-tools but need basic functionality.
Gift buyers historically appreciated the combination of quality and compactness.
Collectors of discontinued tools will appreciate this piece of Leatherman history.
Who Should Avoid?
Heavy-duty users need a larger tool with more leverage and locking features.
Budget-conscious buyers should consider currently available alternatives at normal prices.
Those needing pliers for substantial tasks will find the small size limiting.
Anyone uncomfortable with secondary market purchases may want newer options.
Tool-by-Tool Analysis
Spring-Loaded Needle-Nose Pliers
The pliers are the star of the show and what distinguish the PS4 from scissors-based keychain tools.
Spring loading means they open automatically when you release pressure.
This makes one-handed operation significantly easier compared to non-spring alternatives.
The needle-nose design provides precision for small gripping tasks.
Real-world uses include holding small parts, bending wire, pulling splinters, and light mechanical work.
The pliers extend to 5.75 inches when fully deployed, providing adequate reach for keychain-sized tasks.
Wire Cutters
Integrated into the plier jaws are standard wire cutters.
These work well for small gauge wire, zip ties, and fishing line.
Hard-wire cutters are also included near the pivot for tougher materials.
After years of use, I’ve found these cutters handle most household wire cutting tasks adequately.
They won’t replace dedicated wire cutters for electrical work, but they’re sufficient for emergency repairs.
420HC Knife Blade
The main knife blade uses Leatherman’s 420HC stainless steel.
High carbon content provides good edge retention while maintaining corrosion resistance.
The blade is relatively short due to the compact design, approximately 1.5 inches.
This limits some cutting tasks but makes it legal in more jurisdictions.
I’ve used my PS4 blade for opening packages, cutting cordage, whittling, and general utility cutting.
The blade takes a good edge and holds it reasonably well for light use.
Scissors
The scissors on the Squirt PS4 are surprisingly capable for their size.
Spring-loaded design provides smooth cutting action.
I’ve trimmed loose threads, cut paper, opened packaging, and even trimmed fingernails in emergencies.
Some users report scissors breaking under heavy use.
This is typically from over-stressing the pivot – they’re designed for light tasks only.
Screwdrivers
The PS4 includes three screwdriver options:
- Flat and Phillips combination: Dual-purpose driver with small flat head on one end and small Phillips on the other
- Medium flat screwdriver: Mid-size slotted driver
- Small flat screwdriver: Precision slotted driver
These cover most small screw applications around the house and office.
I’ve used them to tighten eyeglass screws, fix loose electronics, adjust equipment, and make small repairs.
The short length can limit access in recessed areas.
For heavy-duty screw driving, you’ll want a full-sized screwdriver.
File
The built-in file is small but functional for light material removal.
I’ve used it to smooth rough edges, deburr cut metal, and sharpen small tools.
It won’t replace a dedicated file for extensive work.
For quick touch-ups and emergency smoothing, it gets the job done.
Bottle Opener
The integrated bottle opener is a welcome addition for social situations.
Some users find the design too shallow for optimal leverage.
It works on standard bottle caps but may require multiple attempts.
For occasional use, it’s adequate.
Those who frequently open bottles might prefer a dedicated opener.
Lanyard Ring
The lanyard ring allows attachment to keychains, carabiners, or paracord loops.
This is essential for the PS4’s role as a keychain tool.
The ring is sturdy and has never failed in my years of use.
Most users carry the PS4 on their keyring for constant availability.
Build Quality & Durability
The Squirt PS4 represents American manufacturing at its finest.
Made in Oregon with quality materials and assembled by skilled workers.
420HC stainless steel provides excellent corrosion resistance.
The anodized aluminum handles are both attractive and functional.
Color options included blue, red, pink, gray, and limited editions.
Long-Term Durability
Based on extensive owner reports, the Squirt PS4 typically lasts 5-15+ years with regular use.
My personal unit shows minimal wear after three years of daily carry.
Common issues after extended use include pivot looseness and blade dulling.
Most units remain fully functional for many years.
The stainless steel construction resists rust and corrosion effectively.
Warranty Considerations
Originally, the PS4 carried Leatherman’s 25-year warranty.
For discontinued units purchased on the secondary market, warranty service may be limited.
Leatherman typically honors warranties based on manufacturing date, not purchase date.
Contact Leatherman directly with serial number information for specific warranty questions.
Ergonomics & Use Cases
The Squirt PS4 excels at being unobtrusive until needed.
At 2.25 inches closed and 2 ounces, it disappears on a keychain.
The anodized aluminum handles provide decent grip for light tasks.
Small size means limited leverage for heavy work.
This is a design trade-off for portability.
One-Handed Operation
Spring-loaded pliers make one-handed deployment possible.
This is crucial when your other hand is holding the work piece.
Other tools require two hands to deploy from the handles.
Real-World Use Cases
- Office Work: Opening packages, cutting paper, tightening equipment
- Light Repairs: Tightening screws, fixing eyeglasses, small adjustments
- Emergency Preparedness: Cutting cordage, minor repairs, wire work
- Outdoor Activities: Fishing gear repair, camping adjustments, trail emergencies
- Everyday Carry: Always-available backup for unexpected tasks
- Gift Giving: Practical gift for non-tool users who need basics
Pros and Cons
Quick Summary: The Squirt PS4 offers exceptional quality in a tiny package but is now available only at inflated secondary market prices. Ideal for keychain EDC but limited for heavy-duty tasks.
Pros
- Ultra-Compact Size: At 2.25 inches closed and 2 ounces, it disappears on any keyring
- Spring-Loaded Pliers: Enables one-handed operation and provides real utility
- Build Quality: Made in USA with 420HC stainless steel and anodized aluminum
- 9 Tools Included: Comprehensive functionality for a keychain tool
- Outside-Accessible Tools: Most tools deploy without opening the pliers
- Long-Term Durability: Typically lasts 5-15+ years with regular use
- Color Options: Anodized aluminum available in multiple colors
- Lanyard Ring: Secure attachment to keychains and gear
Cons
- Discontinued: No longer manufactured, only available on secondary market
- Inflated Prices: Current market prices are 2-6x original MSRP
- Limited Leverage: Small handles limit torque for heavy tasks
- Short Knife Blade: Compact design limits blade length
- Small Pliers: Not suitable for heavy-duty gripping or bending
- Bottle Opener Design: Some users find it too shallow for reliable use
- Scissors Durability: Can break under heavy stress
- No Locking Tools: All tools fold without blade locks
Alternatives & Comparisons
Given current secondary market prices for the Squirt PS4, it’s worth considering alternatives.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Squirt PS4 | Gerber Dime | Leatherman Micra | Victorinox Cadet |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Status | Discontinued | In Production | In Production | In Production |
| Price Range | $60-333+ | $25-35 | $30-40 | $40-50 |
| Key Tools | Pliers, scissors | Pliers, scissors | Scissors-focused | Knife-focused |
| Weight | 2.0 oz | 2.2 oz | 1.8 oz | 1.7 oz |
| Origin | USA | China | USA | Switzerland |
Gerber Dime
The Gerber Dime is the closest currently-available alternative to the Squirt PS4.
Similar tool selection with pliers, scissors, and various drivers.
Advantages include lower price and better bottle opener design.
Disadvantages include lower build quality and some reports of pliers collapsing under pressure.
At current prices, the Dime offers better value for casual users.
Leatherman Micra
The Micra is the scissors-based sibling in the Squirt line.
Still in production and more reasonably priced.
Features excellent scissors and 10 tools total.
Trade-off is no pliers – focused on cutting tasks rather than gripping.
Ideal if scissors are your primary need.
Victorinox Alox Cadet
The Cadet takes a different approach – knife-focused with no pliers.
Slimmer profile at 1.7 ounces.
Excellent blade steel and superior bottle opener.
Best option if you prioritize cutting and don’t need pliers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Leatherman Squirt PS4 still being made?
No, Leatherman discontinued the Squirt PS4 in Fall 2023 along with other models in the Squirt line. It is no longer available from Leatherman or authorized retailers, only through secondary marketplaces like eBay and Amazon Marketplace at significantly inflated prices.
How durable is the Leatherman Squirt PS4?
Based on long-term owner reports, the Squirt PS4 typically lasts 5-15+ years with regular use. The 420HC stainless steel and anodized aluminum construction hold up well to everyday carry conditions. Common issues after years of use include pivot looseness and blade dulling, but most units remain functional.
Is the Leatherman Squirt PS4 spring-loaded?
Yes, the Squirt PS4 features spring-loaded pliers that automatically open when you release pressure. This spring action makes one-handed operation significantly easier compared to non-spring-loaded alternatives. The scissors also incorporate spring-action for smooth cutting performance.
What is the history of the Leatherman Squirt PS4?
Leatherman introduced the Squirt PS4 in 2002 as part of the keychain-sized multi-tool line. The PS4 designation indicates Pliers with Scissors and 4 additional tools. The Squirt line remained in continuous production for over 20 years until Leatherman discontinued it in Fall 2023.
Is the Leatherman Squirt PS4 worth the current market price?
At original MSRP of $40-50, the PS4 was excellent value. At current secondary market prices of $60-333+, the value depends on your needs. For collectors and EDC enthusiasts who specifically want this feature set, it may be worth it. For practical users, currently available alternatives offer better value.
Can you bring a Leatherman Squirt on a plane?
No, TSA regulations prohibit carrying multi-tools with blades on airplanes. The Squirt PS4 must be packed in checked luggage only. Many owners report having PS4s confiscated at security checkpoints. Never carry your Squirt in carry-on luggage or on your person when flying.
Final Verdict
After years of carrying the Leatherman Squirt PS4 and extensive research into owner experiences, here’s my assessment.
At original retail prices of $40-50, the Squirt PS4 was exceptional value.
The combination of USA-made quality, spring-loaded pliers, and compact design made it the gold standard for keychain multi-tools.
At current secondary market prices, the value proposition changes dramatically.
For serious EDC enthusiasts who value the specific feature set and build quality, the premium may be justified.
Collectors of discontinued tools will find the PS4 a worthy addition to their collection.
However, casual users or those seeking practical utility should consider currently-available alternatives.
The Gerber Dime, Leatherman Micra, or Victorinox Cadet offer similar functionality at significantly lower prices.
My recommendation: If you find a reasonably priced PS4 under $80, it’s worth grabbing.
Beyond that, evaluate whether the discontinued status and collector premium align with your needs and budget.
