Open channel implant tools having an attachment feature and implant techniques utilizing such tools

Implant tools and techniques for implantation of a medical lead, catheter or other component are provided. The implant tools and techniques are particularly useful in implanting medical electrical leads in extravascular locations, including subcutaneous locations. An implant tool for implanting a medical lead may include a shaft having a proximal end, a distal end, an open channel that extends from near the proximal end to the distal end, and an attachment feature configured to couple to the medical lead. Such an implant tool provides a user with the versatility to use the same implant tool to either pull the lead through a tunnel formed via the implant tool or push the lead through the tunnel via the open channel in the implant tool.