The multi tool is an ultimate tool used by professionals and amateurs around the world to get the job done. Multi tools contain a series of tools in one handy, pocket-size product that doesn’t require a
tool box or
belt. Multi tools are also becoming increasingly popular among hikers and backpackers, due to their compact and easy-to-use style.
When selecting a multi tool, it is important to have an idea of the tools you would like included, and the tools that will be most beneficial to you. Almost all multi tools will include some form of knife blade. They may also include pliers, scissors,
can openers, screwdrivers, files, tweezers, toothpicks, flashlights and rulers. The multi tool you select will come down to your own personal preferences. For example, campers might prefer a multi tool with a corkscrew, enabling them to open bottles in the middle of nowhere, whereas a hunter may prefer a multi tool with several blades or a fish scaler.
Quality plays a big role in selecting a multi tool. The perfect multi tool should be both durable and lightweight, with each component built of high-quality, sturdy materials. If even one component of a multi tool is flimsy or poorly built, this will detract from the product as a whole. One of the most popular and useful tools used in a multi tool is the blade or knife. Check out the quality of the knife component first, to get a sense of how durable the other components are.
Multi tools are available in a variety of colors, sizes and joint designs. Know what locking mechanism you prefer in your multi tool, as this can have a huge impact on safety. Not all multi tools lock. Products that don’t lock, however, are likely to unexpectedly close on their own instead, which is usually on your finger…ouch! We highly recommend selecting a product with a durable, effective locking mechanism. A faulty locking mechanism can affect the product's tool components.
Price
The cost of your brand new multi tool will depend on a variety of factors. Multi tools' pricing can range from $5 to $100, depending on how many tools the product contains, the materials it’s made from and the size of the product. Most multi tools are made from steel, and the higher the quality of the steel, the higher the price will be. Steel multi tools will be more durable, and will therefore perform longer. If a tool is smaller in size, it will also tend to be more expensive.
This is because multi-tools are designed to be compact and lightweight. Bigger, bulkier products tend to fall at the lower end of the price scale. Multi tools with more tools will more expensive. This is because a multi tool with numerous tool choices will offer the user more variety and versatility. Cheap multi tools are available on the market (for $3 or less), but be aware that these products may not be as safe or secure and will not contain as many tools.
Features
The tools and features you want in your new multi tool will depend entirely on your own personal preferences and how you will be using the tool. There are a few features that we recommend looking for to ensure you choose the best multi tool for you! They include:
- High Quality
- Clip/ Ring Tie/ Lanyard
- Replaceable Parts
- Steel Construction
Construction and Design
Select a high-quality multi tool. A tool that is of poor quality can potentially harm the user and the product itself. An example of this is a poor closing mechanism that can cause the tool to shut down on the user’s hand. Multi tools contain many potentially harmful tools, so it’s wise to select a reliable product.
We also recommend getting a multi tool with a clip, ring or lanyard. This will allow you to wear the multi tool around your neck for easy access. It will also prevent you from losing or dropping it, which can be especially difficult in harsh terrain and environments.
Get a multi tool that has replaceable parts. This means that certain tools can be detached and replaced when they are worn or damaged. This will prevent you from having to pay for a completely new multi tool, and save you some money in the long run!
We highly recommend selecting a multi tool with steel construction. Although high-quality steel can be a bit pricier, it means that your multi tool's blades will stay stronger for longer, and won’t need to be constantly re-sharpened.
Performance and Ease of Use
Keep your multi tool's blades sharp at all times, as a blunt knife is likely to cause damage to the user. If your multi tool has any blades or tools with sharp edges, it is important to check them regularly for dullness, rust or corrosion. If you have a product with non-serrated blades, you can simply sharpen the knives at home using a file or whetstone. If the multi tool has serrated knives, you may need to get the blades sharpened professionally.
It is also important that you keep your new multi tool clean at all times. As multi tools are often made from metal, they are prone to rusting and corrosion, especially if they are put away wet. Wiping down the tool after each use helps prevent rusting and keeps the joints of the tool from sticking together. If you are looking for a particularly high-end, easy-to-use multi tool, get one that comes with a sheath or bag for storage and cleanliness purposes. Multi tools can be washed with soap and water if they get particularly messy, but be sure you dry the multi tool effectively before putting it away. Many people oil the joints of their multi tools to ensure they open and close effectively for years to come.
With SO many different multi tools available, it can be confusing figuring out which tool is the best for you and your project. Hopefully, after reading our buying guide, you have decided what type of multi tool is most suited to your needs, and what features you would like included in your new product. This will make it a lot easier when it comes to narrowing down your options and selecting the ideal multi tool for you and your next adventure! Let’s start looking at our top five picks.
Features
Gerber was founded in 1939, and has decades of innovation behind it that make it one of the most trusted brands in the industry today. Its problem-solving and life-saving products are designed with specific and unique activities in mind, so its muti tools are so much more than a blade. Gerber’s products started out being carried by hunters, soldiers and tradespeople with their heritage running deep within the company.
Gerber’s Suspension Multi-Plier Multi Tool has great reviews online and a strong, durable design. These spring-loaded pliers have a unique butterfly design that means they are lightweight and easy to use. This product contains 15 individual tools: a fine edge knife, serrated knife, rough cut saw, needle-nose pliers, wire cutter/stripper, straight blade and serrated blade, Phillips screwdriver, large and medium flathead screwdrivers, scissors, bottle opener, can opener, awl and lanyard ring! This multi tool also has a Saf.T.Plus locking system for safety and security. It comes with a ballistic nylon sheath for storage.
Features
Stanley has been the go-to brand for knives for over 170 years, creating reliable products that are synonymous with quality, innovation and value. From the do-it-yourselfer to the professional contractor on the job, Stanley has everything you will ever need to get the job done perfectly. Stanley’s reputation for excellence and dedication means it's trusted by customers the world over, with the brand constantly designing and improving products to make your life easier.
Stanley’s 12-In-1 Multi Tool converts into long-nose pliers, a small knife, wire cutters, saw, standard ¼ screwdriver, bottle opener, curve jaw pliers and a standard 5/16 screwdriver too! This multi tool's stainless steel construction means it’s durable enough for all your DIY needs and will last you a lifetime. It also includes a high-quality nylon holster for portability and practicality!
Now you know about the multi tools out there and what each brand has to offer you! If you aren’t a fan of the particular products we have chosen, don’t panic! We have selected brands that make a wide variety of multi tools, so you can simply browse their other products to find the ideal multi tool for you. All that’s left to do now is select your favorite and get fixing, cutting, sawing, and opening whatever you need in ease and style!
