When unexpected situations arise, having the right tools can mean all the difference between staying safe and feeling vulnerable. A multi-tool is an essential item that can help you tackle various emergency scenarios, both indoors and outdoors. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a survivalist, or a professional in the construction or maintenance field, this compact device packs a punch by combining multiple functions into one convenient tool.
The 8 Best Multi Tools
When it comes to multi-tools, having the right one can make all the difference. From Gerber’s Suspension 22-01471N Multi-Plier to Leatherman’s Super Tool 300, which earns our top pick, there are many excellent options on the market. Other notable mentions include the Leatherman Micra Keychain, MUT, and Victorinox Swiss Army, as well as the SOG PowerPlay and Rose Kuli multi tools. Mossy Oak also offers a unique pocket pliers option.
With so many great choices available, it’s essential to consider what features are most important to you before making a decision.
Our Top Pick for the Best Multi Tool
The Leatherman Super Tool 300 takes the top spot as our premier multi-tool recommendation. Its comprehensive arsenal of essential tools makes it an indispensable companion for any activity, whether you’re venturing into the great outdoors or tackling DIY projects at home.
With its impressive combination of design, functionality, and user-friendliness, this versatile tool is sure to equip you for a wide range of tasks, from wilderness exploration to camping, climbing, fishing, hunting, and even household chores. To check out the current price and availability on Amazon, simply click the link below.
How To Choose the Best Multi Tool
The Swiss Army Knife has long been the gold standard for portable tools, but now there’s a new contender vying for top spot. Multi-tool devices have evolved to become the ultimate handy companion for anyone who ventures outdoors. This compact powerhouse replaces the need for a bulky toolbox, allowing you to tackle a wide range of tasks with ease.
Whether you’re in the woods, on the water, or in the wilderness, this trusty tool can help you accomplish everything from sawing through branches for firewood to cleaning fish and setting up animal traps. It’s also handy for fixing broken gear, opening cans and bottles, and even plucking eyebrows or trimming a beard. The versatility of multi-tool devices makes them an essential addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s arsenal.
Whether you’re a camper, angler, hunter, hiker, climber, survivalist, or military operative, this tool has got your back. So the next time you head out on an adventure, don’t leave home without it.
Essential Multi Tool Features
Just like how a pocket knife packs a punch with its variety of tools, multi-tools offer an impressive range of functions. With 10 to 37 different tools in one device, they’re essentially a Swiss Army knife on steroids. The list of features includes serrated and straight-bladed knives, awls, bottle openers, can openers, knives, nail cleaners, needle-nose pliers, rulers, screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips), saws, scissors, tweezers, wire cutters, stripers, crimpers, and wrenches.
Some models take it to the next level with additional components. For instance, the Gerber Suspension 22-01471N Multi-Plier Multi-Tool and Leatherman Super Tool 300 are ideal for electricians due to their wire cutters, electrical crimper, and wire stripper.
If you’re a professional cyclist or soldier, the Leatherman MUT Multi-Tool is perfect for mechanical and firearm repairs, thanks to its cutting hook, hammer, bolt override tool, bronze carbon scraper, cleaning rod/brush adapter, and firearm disassembly punch. Hobby enthusiasts will appreciate the Leatherman Micra Keychain Multi-Tool’s micro design and three screwdrivers, which are handy for making or fixing model trains and miniatures, as well as creating jewelry.
For campers and wilderness survivalists, the ROSE KULI Multi-Tool boasts an ax and hammer, perfect for chopping small branches for firewood and hammering small nails. Whatever your lifestyle or adventure, there’s a multi-tool designed specifically for you.
Durability
When selecting the best multi-tool, durability and strength should be top priorities. A tool made from solid stainless steel or lightweight aluminum will withstand the rigors of use and resist corrosion. Key components like knives, wire cutters, and scissors should be robust enough to handle pressure without bending, while also maintaining a sharp edge. It’s essential to understand that blades and cutting tools may not arrive at peak sharpness straight out of the box.
To achieve razor-sharp precision, simply sharpen them on a whetstone. Similarly, multi-tools are designed for emergency situations or when no other tools are readily available. They’re not intended for heavy-duty use, which is better suited to more substantial power tools like screwdrivers and hammers.
Multi Tool Safety Features
When using a multi-tool, it’s crucial to prioritize safety despite the smaller blades compared to standard tools. Although compact in size, these tools can still inflict significant harm if not handled properly.
To minimize risks, pay attention to the following key features designed for optimal performance and user protection: ergonomic handles that provide a secure grip, sloped-top designs that improve visibility, cut-outs for comfortable handling, rolled handles for reduced fatigue, suspension hinge systems that allow for easy opening, quick-release mechanisms for effortless access, spring-loaded designs that reduce strain, and safety-lock systems to prevent accidental activation.
8 Best Multi Tools – Reviews
Gerber Suspension 22-01471N Multi-Plier Multi Tool
The Gerber Suspension 22-01471N Multi-Plier Multi-Tool is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true. Its innovative design, inspired by Portland’s famous suspension bridges, features a stainless steel butterfly open-frame plier construction that ensures long-term durability and unparalleled squeezing power. The spring-loaded mechanism makes it easy to open the tool, while the curved handle provides comfortable grip. Additionally, the Saf. T.
Plus component locking system adds an extra layer of safety when closing the handles. This multi-tool is packed with 12 versatile components, including needle-nose pliers, wire cutter/stripper, straight and serrated blades, Phillips screwdriver, large and medium flathead screwdrivers, scissors, bottle opener, can opener, saw, and awl. When not in use, these components fold down into a compact package, making it easy to carry or store in the included ballistic nylon sheath.
The Gerber Suspension multi-tool is backed by a lifetime warranty and boasts several pros, including high quality, affordable price, strong and durable construction, lightweight design, good functionality, and a comfortable handle. However, some users may find individual tools and lock springs can be a bit stiff to open, but the tool’s overall value outweighs this minor drawback.
Leatherman Super Tool 300 Multi Tool
The Leatherman Super Tool 300 is a powerhouse of a multi-tool, boasting an impressive array of 19 tools designed to tackle a wide range of tasks with ease. The tool’s robust construction is built to last, featuring high-carbon 420-grade stainless steel that ensures long-term durability and resistance to corrosion.
Each tool within the Super Tool 300 has been carefully crafted for optimal performance, including a straight-edge knife, serrated knife, needle-nose pliers, regular pliers, large, medium, and small screwdrivers, Phillips Head screwdriver, three wire cutters, electric crimper, wire stripper, saw, file, awl, ruler, bottle opener, and can opener. The tool’s ergonomic design features a sloped-top handle that allows for comfortable grip and easy maneuverability, even in tight spaces.
One of the Super Tool 300’s most innovative features is its replaceable wire cutters, which ensure the tool remains effective and safe over time. Additionally, the multi-tool’s all-locking mechanism ensures every tool and knife, with the exception of the pliers head, locks securely when fully opened, preventing accidental deployment. The Super Tool 300 folds compactly for easy storage and features a lanyard ring that allows for quick attachment to your belt or backpack.
The tool also comes with a nylon sheath for added convenience. Leatherman stands behind its product with a renowned 25-year limited warranty, giving you peace of mind knowing you’re covered in case anything goes wrong. While the Super Tool 300 may be an investment, it’s undeniable that its high-quality construction, unparalleled performance, and innovative features make it well worth the cost. Just be aware that some users may find the tool can be challenging to close at times.
Leatherman Micra Keychain Multi Tool
Leatherman Micra Keychain Multi-Tool: A Tiny Titan of Utility. Leatherman’s reputation for producing high-quality multi-tools is well-deserved, and the Micra is no exception. This compact powerhouse packs 10 tools into a spring-action scissor design that belies its tiny size.
The stainless steel frame may be small, but it contains an impressive array of functions: scissors, knife, flat/Phillips Head screwdriver, small and medium screwdrivers, bottle opener, nail cleaner, nail file, tweezers, and ruler. At just a few inches long, the Micra is perfect for everyday carry, fitting easily in your pocket, purse, or tackle box. A keyring attachment allows you to keep it within easy reach, whether that’s attached to your car keys, house keys, or backpack.
The scissors themselves are sturdy and strong, capable of cutting through fishing line or twine, if not industrial-strength cardboard boxes. The Micra is available in six attractive colors: black, blue, gray, green, red, and stainless steel. And with a 25-year warranty backing it up, you can trust that this little multi-tool will remain by your side for years to come.
Some of the standout features include its great quality, good price, ultra-compact size, lightweight design, good value for money, and perfect suitability for fishermen, hobbyists, and personal care enthusiasts.
Leatherman MUT Multi Tool
The Leatherman MUT Multi-Tool is an impressive instrument designed for a variety of uses. Whether you’re a military personnel, law enforcement officer, survivalist, hunter, or electrician, this multi-tool can help you tackle various tasks.
Its sheer versatility stems from its 16 built-in tools, including pliers, wire cutters and crimpers, a knife, saw, cutting hook, hammer, bolt override tool, bronze carbon scraper, cleaning rod/brush adapter, firearm disassembly punch, carabiner/bottle opener, and large bit driver. What’s more, the tool can be opened and closed with one hand, freeing up your other hand for additional tasks.
Despite its rugged design, the MUT is surprisingly portable and comfortable to hold, allowing you to work efficiently while keeping an extra bit stored in the handle. The tool comes equipped with a pocket clip and offers two MOLLE sheath options – brown or black – to keep your investment safe and secure. Additionally, it includes a scope adjustment wrench, front-sight adjustment tool, and 3/8-inch wrench.
The Leatherman MUT is backed by a comprehensive 25-year warranty, making it an excellent value for its quality and performance.
Victorinox Swiss Army Multi Tool
Victorinox’s reputation precedes it, thanks to its iconic Swiss Army Knife. But what about when you need more than just a knife? Enter the Victorinox SwissTool Multi-Tool, an innovative powerhouse that packs an astonishing 37 features into one sleek package. Whether you’re looking for an emergency tool for your home, job site, or outdoor pursuits like fishing, hunting, or hiking, this multi-tool has got you covered.
Crafted in Switzerland and built to last with all-stainless steel construction, the SwissTool CS Plus is rugged, reliable, and resistant to rust – making it perfect for roughing it outdoors. The tool’s individual components can be accessed directly from the handle, offering a wide range of screwdrivers, wire crimpers, scrapers, strippers, crate openers, corkscrews, and more. With such an array of functions at your disposal, you’ll be prepared for anything that comes your way.
The tool folds up neatly into a compact, lightweight device that can be stored in its elegant leather case or attached to your backpack via the lanyard hole for quick access. And, with Victorinox’s generous lifetime warranty backing it up, you can trust that this multi-tool will remain by your side through thick and thin.
SOG PowerPlay Multi Tool
The SOG PowerPlay Multi-Tool is an innovative solution for indoor or outdoor tasks, boasting a stylish and practical design. Crafted from sturdy rust-resistant stainless steel, this versatile device is perfect for professionals like electrical contractors, soldiers, fishermen, and hikers.
The 18-tool ensemble includes a pair of pliers, wire cutter, hex bit driver, wire crimper, wood saw, three-sided file, jewelry driver, awl, large screwdriver, bottle opener, Phillips screwdriver, medium screwdriver, can opener, small screwdriver, straight-edge blade, fully serrated blade, and ruler.
A groundbreaking design feature of the PowerPlay tools is their ability to fold out of the handle for quick access, thanks to a special gear-driven compound leverage system that provides twice the gripping and cutting power compared to traditional pliers. The PowerPlay feature also enables one-handed rapid access to the straight edge and fully serrated blade, whether the tool is opened or closed, with blades locking securely into a closed position when finished.
Although slightly heavier and larger than most multi-tools, it folds down compactly for easy storage in the included nylon pouch featuring a clip, hook, and loop closure for secure attachment to your belt. A comprehensive hex bit kit is also included, comprising a socket-to-hex bit adapter, two glass-reinforced nylon storage sleeves, and 12 different hex bits. SOG stands behind their product with a limited lifetime warranty.
Overall, the PowerPlay Multi-Tool offers great quality, excellent value for money, a sleek design, strong stainless steel construction, and an impressive range of tools.
Rose Kuli Multi Tool
Rose Kuli’s pocket multi-tool is a game-changer for anyone who loves camping, hiking, fishing, or DIY projects. This ultra-lightweight and compact tool contains 14 standard tools, including pliers, a knife, rasp, wrench, bottle opener, slotted screwdriver, Phillips head screwdriver, blade, wire cutter, saw, double-sided poking knife, bung puller, ax, and hammer.
The multi-tool’s unique design features a spring-loaded safety lock that ensures the tool is locked into place until you’re ready to close it and fold it away. When you need to use the pliers function, simply press down on the lever on top of the handle. The tool also comes with a rubber safety cover for the ax blade to protect your wrist from accidental cuts. Rose Kuli offers three attractive color designs: stainless steel with red or blue wooden handles.
You can store the multi-tool in the nylon carrying bag or attach it to your backpack via the steel lanyard ring on the end of the handle. The tool is highly functional, strong and durable, making it an excellent addition to any survival kit or outdoor adventure. However, it’s not ideal for daily use due to its size and design. Additionally, the hammer can chip easily if not handled carefully, and the ax may press against your hand while using the knife function.
Despite these minor drawbacks, Rose Kuli’s pocket multi-tool is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable and versatile tool in their outdoor adventures.
Mossy Oak Multi Tool Pocket Pliers
The Mossy Oak Multi-Tool Pocket Pliers is an indispensable companion for any situation, whether you’re tackling projects around the house, embarking on an outdoor adventure, or serving in a military capacity. This versatile tool boasts a robust open-frame design and features 13 high-quality tools crafted from super hardened stainless steel with rust-resistant black powder coating.
The multi-tool’s arsenal includes nose pliers, curved jaw pliers, wire cutter, three slotted screwdrivers, a Phillips head screwdriver, saw, knife, file, leather punch, can opener, and bottle opener. With this pocket-sized powerhouse, you’ll be prepared to handle any task that comes your way. Safety is paramount with the Mossy Oak Multi-Tool, as every individual tool and knife locks into place – except for the pliers head, of course.
This innovative locking design ensures safe operation while allowing manual unlocking for convenient storage within the multi-tool. Ergonomically designed handles provide a comfortable grip, while the camouflaged pattern makes it ideal for soldiers and hunters. To keep your multi-tool in pristine condition, the black nylon sheath features a hook-and-loop closure and belt loop for easy everyday carry.
And with a 5-year warranty backing up this exceptional product, you can trust that Mossy Oak has got your back.
Our Top Pick for the Best Multi Tool
Our go-to choice for a reliable multi-tool is the impressive Leatherman Super Tool 300. This powerhouse of a tool is stuffed with a wide range of essential functions that make it an ideal companion for both indoor and outdoor endeavors. Whether you’re venturing into the wilderness, scaling heights, reeling in fish, tracking prey, pitching a tent, or tackling DIY projects, this Leatherman multi-tool shines with its clever design, seamless functionality, and intuitive user experience.
To see what makes it such a standout option, check out the current price on Amazon.
