Top 5 The Best Multi Tool Options Ranked
Are you truly prepared for the wilderness? Before setting off on your next big adventure, check out some of the best multi tool options on the market. We promise to only offer you only the best reviewed products!
Contents
Best Multi Tool Comparison Table
We’ve reviewed the most popular multi tools to whittle down what it means to be the best for wilderness use. We look at all the traditional uses but also highlight some of the life-saving features that make these multi tools the best.
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![Gerber Diesel Multi-Plier, Black [22-01545N]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31l5-CK7SIL._SL160_.jpg)
Best Multi Tool FAQ
Before we review the best multi tool options on the market today, let’s first go over some of the most frequently asked questions about them.
1. WHAT IS A MULTI TOOL?
Image via Pixabay
There are different types of multi tools. The two main types are electric and manual multi tools. Today we’re focusing on the manual variety. A manual multi tool contains a variety of helpful hand tools in one portable casing.
2. WHAT DOES A MULTI TOOL DO?
3. HOW DOES A MULTI TOOL WORK?
4. WHAT ARE USES FOR A MULTI TOOL IN THE WILDERNESS?
5. HOW DO I PICK THE RIGHT MULTI TOOL FOR ME?
6. WHERE CAN YOU BUY THEM?
How We Reviewed And Selected The Best Multi Tools
Image via Pixabay
We’ve reviewed the following best multi tool options based on their features, pros, cons, price, durability, weight, where to buy and warranty. We looked specifically at how each multi tool would fare for use on a trek. Some multi tools are better than others for wilderness use. For this review, we’re looking for the little things; those things we often forget but at one point or another always wish we’d remembered to pack.
OVERALL PRICE RANGE OF THE BEST MULTI TOOL
The best multi tool options come at different price ranges. Pricing really depends on what you are looking for in the tool. Smaller multi tools with fewer features cost less than a multi tool with many individual components. Durability is another factor for pricing. Cheaper multi tools are often not as strong as those that come with a higher price tag.
We’ve reviewed the best multi tool for every budget. The multi tools below start at around $55. The most expensive of the best multi tools cost around $175.
WHAT WE REVIEWED
1
GERBER DIESEL
![Gerber Diesel Multi-Plier, Black [22-01545N]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31l5-CK7SIL.jpg)
Gerber Diesel Multi-Plier, Black [22-01545N]
- True one-handed deployment
- Industrial strength components.
- 15 total tools
- Weight: 8.6 oz
- Big. Tough. Capable.
FEATURES
The Diesel multi tool by Gerber is designed for big jobs, tough challenges, and frequent use. This durable tool comes with larger-than-average pieces for even the most complex uses. Gerber’s Diesel comes in a sleek all-black finish.
The Gerber Diesel black multi tool comes with 12 heavy-duty tools that are all secured into place with the company’s patented Saf.T.Plus system. Diesel sets itself apart from most multi tools by featuring needle-nose pliers, rather than traditional flat-nosed pliers, to fit into the tightest spaces. Other tools included in this multi tool are: bottle opener, can opener, cross point screwdriver, file, partially serrated knife, three flat screwdrivers, scissors and a saw.
The Diesel by Gerber weighs 8.5 ounces and comes with a black nylon carrying sheath. This product is made in China and assembled in the US.
Pros
CONS
WARRANTY
Gerber provides a lifetime manufacturer’s defect warranty for the Diesel multi tool in the US with some restrictions. The warranty may not apply for all purchasers; contact the seller of the product before purchasing to verify the warranty terms.
2
LEATHERMAN SKELETOOL
LEATHERMAN – Skeletool Lightweight Multitool with Combo…
- READY FOR ANYTHING: screwdriver, blade, pliers, and a carabiner clip
- FIT MORE FUNCTIONALITY: The Skeletool has everything you need for both housework and survival
- ALWAYS ON HAND: The small size helps it fit in any pocket so you can always carry it with you
- GUARANTEED: 25 years
FEATURES
The Diesel multi tool by Gerber is designed for big jobs, tough challenges, and frequent use. This durable tool comes with larger-than-average pieces for even the most complex uses. Gerber’s Diesel comes in a sleek all-black finish.
Leatherman designed their Skeletool smaller for those who don’t want to carry a cumbersome multi tool around. The Skeletool comes with a stainless steel full-body finish or with a blue, green or tan handle finish.
The lightweight stainless steel Leatherman Skeletool comes with seven essential tools and is designed for efficient single hand use. Features included in the Skeletool are: bottle opener, hard-wire cutters, half serrated knife blade, needle-nose pliers, pliers, wire cutters and a universal bit driver. The Skeletool comes with the following bits: Phillips #1, Phillips #2, 3/16-inch screwdriver and 1/4-inch screwdriver.
Built in to Leatherman’s Skeletool is a convenient and removable pocket clip to attach to a belt loop and bit storage in the handle. The tool is compatible with other separately-sold Leatherman accessories, including a 25-piece bit set and sheaths. This five-ounce multi-tool is made and assembled in the US.
Pros
CONS
WARRANTY
The Leatherman Skeletool comes with a limited 25-year warranty.
3
LEATHERMAN CHARGE PLUS TTI
LEATHERMAN – Charge Plus TTi Titanium Multitool with…
- READY FOR ANYTHING: screwdriver, blade, saw, pliers, file, fore starter, can opener, scissors, and a serrated knife
- FIT MORE FUNCTIONALITY: This tool has everything you need for both housework and survival
- ALWAYS ON HAND: The small size helps it fit in any pocket so you can always carry it with you
- GUARANTEED: 25 years
FEATURES
Leatherman’s Charge Plus TTi is the king of the multi tools made with an extra sturdy and durable design. This tough and reliable companion tool is ready to tackle any task on command. The premium stainless steel and titanium Leatherman Charge Plus TTi Multi Tool features 19 individual tools in a compact 12.8-ounce body design. It comes with a lanyard ring, replaceable pocket clip and a black nylon sheath.
Tools within the Charge Plus TTi include: 420HC serrated knife, bottle opener, can opener, cutting hook, diamond-coated file, eight-inch ruler, electrical crimper, file, medium screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, large bit driver, pliers, premium replaceable wire cutters and hard-wire cutters, S30V 2.9-inch knife, a saw, a small bit driver and spring-action scissors.
Bits included with the Charge Plus TTi are: eyeglasses screwdriver, square drive #1 and #2, Phillips #1, Phillips #2, Phillips 3/16, screwdriver 1/8-inch, Torx #15, and Hex: 5/32, 9/64, 1/8, 5/64, 1/16, and .050.
The Charge Plus is proudly designed, built, and repaired in the US.
Pros
CONS
WARRANTY
Leatherman backs the Charge Plus TTi with a limited 25-year warranty.
4
VICTORINOX SWISS ARMY KNIFE HANDYMAN
Victorinox Handyman
- Large blade
- Small blade
- Corkscrew
- Can opener with small…
- Bottle opener with large…
FEATURES
The Victorinox Swiss Army Knife Handyman comes from the makers of some first modern multi tools on the planet. The smooth and compact traditional Swiss Army Knife body design is easy to carry and use.
The Handyman includes 24 tools, including: 2.5-millimeter screwdriver, 3-millimeter screwdriver, awl, bottle opener, can opener, chisel, corkscrew, nail cleaner, nail file, large and small knife blades, key ring, metal file, metal saw, multipurpose hook, pliers, toothpick, tweezers, wire cutter, wire stripper and wood saw.
The Handyman weighs 5.5 ounces and is made in Switzerland. The product is compatible with a Victorinox leather belt pouch that is sold separately for around $16.
Pros
CONS
WARRANTY
The Swiss Army Knife comes with a lifetime warranty.
5
SOG POWERLOCK EOD B61
SOG Multitool – PowerLock EOD Heavy Duty Tactical Multitool,…
- 18 STURDY STEEL TOOLS FOR MEN:…
- POWERFUL MULTITOOL PLIERS…
- BALLISTIC NYLON MULTITOOL…
- GSA-APPROVED 420 STAINLESS…
- BLACK OXIDE COATING: Multitool…
FEATURES
The 420 stainless steel SOG Powerlock EOD B61 has 18 tools in one and comes with a ballistic nylon sheath. This multi tool’s namesake comes from the inbuilt locking mechanism called Powerlock. This feature locks all tools with the press of a single button.
Tools featured for this multi tool are: 1/4-inch hex bit driver, blasting cap crimper, knife, needle-nose pliers, pliers and scissors. The Powerlock EOD also comes with a 12-piece hex bit kit.
Pros
CONS
WARRANTY
SOG offers a manufacturer’s defect warranty throughout the lifetime of the original purchaser.
THE VERDICT
When selecting the best multi tool for your needs, consider what you plan to use the tool for. The best multi tool for small jobs is not the best multi tool for heavy-duty and industrial tasks. Some of the best multi tools cater to hiking and camping more than others such as those featuring can openers, saws and tweezers. As mentioned, finding the best multi tool for you depends on your personal needs. We’ve highlighted our top choices for outdoor use below.
MOST VERSATILE
The best multi tool for versatility is the Victorinox Swiss Army Handyman. It features every tool imaginable for long treks in the wilderness. The lightweight and small body design is perfect for stowing away in a pocket, pack or pouch. The Handyman contains the little, oft-forgotten elements crucial for longer outdoor excursions, like tweezers, toothpick and a serrated saw. It’s sold at a very affordable mid-level price range and is backed by a lifetime warranty.
BEST OVERALL MULTI TOOL
The best multi tool for overall outdoor use is the Leatherman Charge Plus TTi. This tool is tough and contains many of the most valuable wilderness features. Although it is the most expensive multi tool on this list, it earns this place for its reputation of unparalleled strength and reliability in any situation.
Featured Image via Amazon
Bottom Line
Here is pur selection for the top five best multi tools avaliable for online purchase. We are eager to hear your reviews and opinions on them too, and if you think there is one we missed, let us know in the comments below!
My articles appear in Marketing Edge Magazine, on Gizmogrind, and with various Medium publications. But one thing hasn’t changed in all of my life: no matter where I was or what I was doing. I’ve always loved to be outdoors.
A man needs nothing more than a good flannel shirt, a well-worn pair of jeans, and comfortable hiking boots. I don’t go for all the fancy luxury stuff. Suits are uncomfortable and shaving sucks.
