If you’re going through your life and find that you just never have the right tool for the problem at hand, then you might want to look at multi tools. They are a staple in the everyday carry way of living. You can find multi tools that will fit a variety of professions and lifestyles. Some options out there will work better for different people.
Regardless of if you’re getting it for yourself, a friend, or a loved one, there is a multi tool out there that will work. In order to help you find the best multi tool, we’re going to go over what multi tools can be really used for and how to find one that really works.
12 Best Multi Tools 2018
In order to help you find the best multi tool for you, we have compiled a list of the tools that we think will fit a lot of different people. Hopefully, even if one of these doesn’t fit you, you’ll understand better what you can find and what you want out of the tool that you wind up getting.
1. Leatherman – Squirt PS4 Multitool – Best for Keychain
Getting a smaller multitool is going to really help you keep it on you all the time. Getting one that is small enough to be part of your keychain is especially nice because it means that it will be with your keys at all times. I mean, how often do you leave your house without your keys anyways?
This one includes most of the basic tools that you will need when you are out in the world, including scissors, pliers, and even a file. This tool even has a spot to attach your key ring. This one will be easy to add to your life and won’t take up a ton of space. This model, in particular, will work well for everyday carry situations.
Because of how small it is, it is a little bit difficult for some people to handle. You might not be able to easily get to all of the tools unless you are determined.
Pros
- Small, compact design
- Works with keychain quite easily
- Not too expensive
Cons
- Small and possibly difficult to use for some
- Doesn’t have a ton of tools on it
- Tools like tweezers that are missing from the lineup
2. Victorinox Swiss Army Classic SD Pocket Knife – Best for Pocket Carry
When you’re looking for something to carry in your pocket, there’s no way that you can go wrong with the classic Swiss army knife design. This model doesn’t cost a lot, but it still has a number of useful tools for you to use.
This one is one of the most basic that you can get, but if you’re looking to just supplement your daily carry and make sure that you have a couple little tools to help you during the day, then this tool will definitely be the one to fit you.
You might not like that there are so few options on the tool, but it is the cheaper end option. You will be able to find similar styles with some more tools on it, but they will cost quite a bit more.
Pros
- Small
- Easy to carry everywhere with you
- Not expensive
Cons
- Not too many tools
- Plastic handle isn’t going to be that durable in the long run
3. SOG PowerLock EOD Multi-Tool – Best for Belt
By putting your multi tool on your belt instead of in your pocket, you open yourself to all sorts of new options. This multi tool works well and contains many more tools than what you will normally find in the pocket versions of multi tools.
This one is a higher end one that will work well for years and is made to really assist you with just about everything that you would ever need to do. You’ll pay a little bit more for this tool, but you get quite a lot for the money that you are paying. You’re getting sturdy tools and a kit that will fit well in your hand.
There are some people that don’t think that this particular design is as nice as some others out there, but that’ll be up to you to decide.
Pros
- 18 tools
- Durable material
- Folds up nicely
Cons
- Expensive
- Might be too many or not the right tools for some people
4. Victorinox SwissTool – Best for General Use
This tool might not seem like the normal multi tool as this one comes apart quite easily to give you quite the array of tools to use. Because of the fact that it is so many different tools, this is one of the best ones to always have with you.
The tool typically comes in a pouch so that you won’t have to worry about pieces and parts falling off of it. There are 37 functions for the tool and you’ll definitely like having this around. However, it is a bit more expensive than other tools that are out there. This can make it not attractive to people that need something more casual.
However, if you find yourself needing a whole toolset more often than not, then this tool is going to be just right for you. It’s made out of good quality materials and will really be able to help you during your normal day to day activities.
Pros
- 37 functions
- Comes with pouch
- Functions as a mini toolkit
Cons
- Expensive
- Has a few loose pieces
- There is no grip so it’s a little slick to hold onto
5. Leatherman – Juice S2 Multitool – Best for Pliers
If you’re looking for a tool that really has a good set of pliers, then this particular set from Leatherman will do it. The pliers on this tool aren’t just typical pliers. There are needle nose pliers included as well. This will mean more options for when you need a plier.
Besides the nice pliers that are included in this tool, there are plenty of other high-quality tools on this particular tool. This will mean that you’re getting the most for your money. This tool is on the expensive side, but the tool is made of high-quality materials and will work well for quite a long time.
Pros
- 12 tools
- Sturdy build
- Handle helps you grip
- Lightweight
Cons
- On the expensive side
- The handle might not be big enough for some people
- Possibly not enough tools for some people
6. Leatherman – Z-Rex Multitool – Best for Scissors
While you might not look at this one and immediately think of scissors, this tool is great for cutting things apart. There is no classic scissor design in this multi tool, but it is made to cut things. The cutter might feel a little unusual at first, but it is something that you will get used to and use more often as you get used to the tool.
This tool is very limited, but it can be nice to have around in case of emergencies. This would be a multi tool to keep in your car in case of a car accident. This one will be a little less useful for everyday carry unless you’re a police officer or someone that commonly works with accidents and you need to get people out of tough spots on a regular basis.
Pros
- Great for emergencies
- Simple design
- Not too expensive
Cons
- Only two uses
- Doesn’t work well for most everyday carry setups
7. Gerber Center-Drive Multi-Tool – Best for Screwdriver
Having a good screwdriver can make sure that you’re able to deal with problems that arise with tools, glasses, or even electronics. This Gerber multi tool will work well not just because there is a good drill, but because it comes with different sets of bits to use. Being able to use different sizes means that you won’t have to carry around a whole set of drills in order to fix everything that you need to deal with.
This multi tool has several other parts to it though that will work nicely. As well, it comes with a sheath to make sure that you don’t lose any of the drill bits. It is a little bit on the expensive side, but you are getting tons of different items that will last for quite a long time.
Pros
- Tons of great tools
- Sturdy build
- Comes with sheath to keep everything together
Cons
- A little expensive
- Lacks scissors which a lot of people want
8. SOG Baton Q2 Urban Multi-Tool – Best for Blade
This multi tool is a little different than typical ones. When you look at this multi tool, you will notice that the shape is immediately different. The reason that it is different is because it is built with an emphasis around the blade. The main part of the tool is the blade with only three other tools.
While it is extremely basic, it does include a flashlight in the tool. This means that you won’t be in the dark with this multi tool. This one is built for exploration outdoors and even in urban environments where you might feel a little unsafe.
Pros
- Large blade
- Flashlight
- Sleek design
Cons
- Only four tools
- Not suitable for everyday carry always
9. SOG MacV Tool Multi-Tool – Best for One Piece Tools
Getting a one-piece tool is always interesting. Instead of unfolding the tool, you will find that all of the tools are accessible right away. This may make it easier for some that have a hard time unfolding the parts of the tool.
The limiting factor, especially for this one is that what you see is what you get. One piece tools don’t tend to have sharp blades or scissors included and the design of them can sometimes feel a little bit odd at first. However, this one comes with 12 tools that will help you around the house or when you’re building something. However, because this one is built as one piece that doesn’t need to be assembled, it is quite a bit cheaper.
Pros
- Slim
- Easy to carry
- 12 tools
- Sturdy build
Cons
- No blades or scissors
- Won’t work for all
- Design might not appeal to all
10. SOG Sync II Multi-Tool – Best for Accessibility
This multi tool is a little bit unique. It folds up into a belt buckle. This can make it much more effective for people that don’t want anything extra on their belt but still need a multi tool that can go to work with them. This belt buckle might not always fit your fashion sense, but that’s also okay.
This one can be attached to packs or anything else. It unfolds to have 11 tools for you to use. This one will be easy to work with and use on a regular basis.
Pros
- Folds up slim
- Can be worn on a belt
- Has 11 tools
Cons
- A little expensive
- Doesn’t always work the best as a belt buckle
11. Leatherman – Wave Multitool – Best for Durability
There are 17 tools included in this particular multi tool. The way that it’s designed means that you’ll really be able to get the most out of the tool. While this tool doesn’t have a grip, there is a lot that it has to offer the user of the tool.
Each of the tools is designed to work well and make sure that you’re able to get the most out of the tool. In addition to the nice tools, you’ll find that this particular one comes with a leather sheath. This means you won’t have to carry the tool around just by the metal part all the time.
This one is well loved because it lasts so long and the parts of it are so great. This one will really work across all parts of life.
Pros
- 17 tools
- Comes with sheath
- Sturdy design
Cons
- More expensive
- Doesn’t have a lot of specialized tools
12. Swiss+Tech Polished SS 19-in-1 – Best for Price
When you’re looking for a neat little multi tool to add to your life without breaking the bank, this is one that hits a lot of good points.
This particular tool isn’t that expensive. In fact, it’s one of the cheapest that you can get. However, that doesn’t mean that it’s weak. This one is a bit stronger than what you would expect. As well, it is an extremely small tool, which means that it will fit easily into your pocket.
Despite its small size, there are 19 tools inside of this multi tool. It’s a lot for something that is something so small and cheap.
Pros
- Small
- 19 tools
- Sturdy
Cons
- Not as sturdy as other tools
- Can be a bit too small for some people
- May eventually come apart
Benefits of Having a Multi Tool
There are many benefits to having a multi tool are many. There are specific benefits depending on the place that you work or the hobbies that you participate in.
Everyday Carry
One of the biggest benefits of a multi tool is being able to use it as an everyday carry item. Everyday carry is about creating kits that people take with them everywhere that they go.
These kits are meant to help them deal with the issues that commonly come up when they’re out and about. These kits usually include pens, pads of paper, water bottles, laptops, and more. But one thing that is really common is the multi tool.
The multi tool can add a lot to your everyday carry set up. You can pack a lot of tools into it without having to carry around a backpack for all of them. This can make your life a lot easier. If you’re looking at starting an everyday carry, then you might want to start with the multi tool and expand what you need from there.
Quick Fixes at Work
Having a multi tool on your person can be very helpful for all sorts of different jobs. If you work in IT, then having a multi tool that will allow you to get into the tech easily can be especially useful. You might still need full tools for some things, but the multi tool can be the thing that you use when you’re not near the tools or if the fix is something small.
Of course, a multi tool isn’t just limited to IT work. If you work outside or far away from people and can’t carry a ton of tools with you all the time, then you’ll find that this tool will be able to fill a lot of rolls that you would otherwise need.
No Hunting for Tools
When you’re working or wandering around, you won’t have to go through boxes to find all the tools that you need. Multi tools typically fit into your pocket. Sometimes, you might need to put in a bag pocket, but even then they aren’t that big and they’re easy to use.
Not having to look through your whole house or office for a tool is going to mean that you’ll spend more time on the things that matter to you and less time on searching for a tool. Less wasted time is great for everyone.
Out in the Wilderness
Whether you’re going hiking or hunting, a multi tool can be essential to your life outside of your house and out in the wilderness. The tools that are typically included in a multi tool can be very useful for basic survival. Having a tool with you can make sure that even if you get lost, you won’t be struggling to survive out there.
If you’re very into hunting, you also know that it’s important to be prepared for anything that happens. Having a multi tool, especially one that is designed for use with the weapons that you are using, can mean the difference between a good trip and a bad trip.
Even if you try to make sure that your weapons are in the best shape, you never know what will happen outside. You’ll need tools in order to fix anything that you stumble into. There are multi tools that are designed specifically for use with firearms, although most multi tools will have the right array of tolls, you might find that ones made for hunters have just one or two extras that will make them worth it.
What to Look for in a Multi Tool
Because there are so many different multi tools out there, you will have to really think about what you need from a tool. I cannot tell you exactly what you want, but I can hit on some of the most basic traits that you might want to consider. The specifics will rely on what you need and want, so make sure to look into the specifics of the multi tools that you are considering.
Array of Tools
Every multi tool is just a little bit different. Some will have a better blade. Some will have pliers. Some have a better range of screwdriver bits. Everything that you need is going to be available, but it will depend greatly on the kind of tools that you need.
With many sets, you will gain and lose specific tools. Some tools have pliers, but those that do have a specific shape. If you don’t like that shape, then you’re going to find yourself possibly giving up the pliers.
You may also want to wary of tools that have too many tools. If the tool has a knife, scissors, corkscrew, and screwdriver bits all over it, but you’re not going to use all of the screwdriver bits of the scissors, then you might want to look for a different multi tool.
However, you may find that some tools are impossible not to find when you’re looking at multi tools. Most designs include a blade of some kind, but there are also many that are designed with pliers that might not have a blade but will have several small bits that you can use.
Pick an array that fits you. It might have one or two pieces that you don’t use often, but it’s better to have extra tools than not enough tools.
Price
Multi tools are unfortunately expensive at times. There are some designs that are more expensive than others just because of how complicated they are to make. There are simpler sets that are going to cost much less.
You will also have to take into account the kind of material that they are made out of and whether they pull apart. The more durable and expensive the material, then you are going to wind up paying more. You may be limited by your budget when you’re looking at a multi tool, but don’t get the cheapest possible material. Those tools are more likely to fall apart and not work well for all the things that you need.
Size
The size of the tool is incredibly important for some people. If you don’t want to have to tuck it into a bag, then you’re going to need one that fits into your pocket. You might also want one that will easily clip onto your belt without weighing everything down.
While the number of tools that you can effectively have with the tool goes down when it is smaller, you will find that there are many multi tools that are pretty small but managed to fold up several small tools. There is going to a balance between size and number of tools that will probably work for you.
Durability
The durability of your multi tool is incredibly important. You don’t want to get a tool that will bend when you try to use it. Getting something durable also means that it can handle being carried everywhere with you all the time. You don’t want a tool that will stop working after you drop it a couple of times.
Unfortunately, durability and material are related. This means that the more durable you want the tool to be, the more you are going to wind up paying for the multi tool.
Shape
While most multi tools have a really similar shape, there are more and more shapes out there that you can get them in. There are multi tools that are made to look like other things, such as a belt buckle or even a bracelet.
You don’t have to get a more typical shape, just keep that in mind. Those unusual shapes might cost a little bit more than a more typical design, so you will also have to keep that in mind when you are searching for a multi tool that fits your lifestyle.
Conclusion
Getting a multi tool can really improve your life. It can cut down on the things that you carry with you all the time. It can also make your life that much easier. We’ve gone through some of the basics about multi tools just to help you figure out which one will actually work best for your life. Hopefully, that pointed out to one of the items on our list. However, if it hasn’t, there are tons of multi tools out there that will suit your lifestyle and what you need during your daily life.
