When you have a multitool in your possession, it is as if you have the entirety of a toolbox right at your disposal. If you've ever found yourself in a position in which you needed more than a pocket knife could provide, investing in a multitool is a solution that's not only compact but also multipurpose and very inexpensive.

While the vast majority of multitools include a sturdy knife and/or highly functional pliers, the available features on multitools can vary widely. When looking for a multitool, it is important to consider how you will use it the most as well as which tools are essential. Regardless of the circumstances, a quality multitool ought to last a lifetime. A young acquaintance of mine was the recent recipient of my very first Swiss Army Knife multitool. Over the course of my life, I've amassed a collection of multitools that may be utilised for a variety of tasks. It was time to give one or two away, which made room in the multitool drawer for some of the jewels discussed in this article.

Best OverallLeatherman Curl

About forty years ago, Tim Leatherman is credited with inventing the first multitool, which later became known as the "Leatherman." The tried-and-true utility has been updated to its most recent form with the release of The Curl, which includes 15 tools. Pliers, in the form of both needle nose and conventional pliers, are the foundation of this device, just as they were of the original Leatherman. In addition, this multitool comes equipped with wire cutters and strippers, a knife, a bit driver and a screwdriver, spring-action scissors, a diamond coated and wood/metal file, a can and bottle opener, an awl, and a ruler. It is the most functional, comfortable leatherman for generalist use, and its price makes it affordable for the majority of people.

I really liked how sharp the blade was, and the shape of it made it an ideal tool for cutting tent cord, making skewers to roast marshmallows on, and preparing food in the camp kitchen. The ease of use of the pliers was another feature of the instrument that left an impression on me. This tool's versatility is enhanced by the inclusion of a bit driver and holder, which allows the user to swap out the component that is most prone to wear and tear as a result of prolonged use.

And while though the file on some tools looks more like an emery board that can be used to smooth a rough fingernail than a tool that can be used to sharpen metal, the file on this tool is the real deal. When I was climbing, the tip of my ice axe broke off, so I stopped at an anchor in the middle of the route to sharpen the pick so I could continue climbing. The instrument does not come equipped with a lanyard clip, therefore sheaths must be purchased separately. Leatherman offers a warranty on the Curl that is good for 25 years.

Runner Up, Best OverallGerber Lockdown

If you spend a lot of time opening boxes and making light cuts with your knife blade, you are going to adore this tool just as much as I did. The Lockdown-Drive, which is in the shape of a block, comes with eight different tools, one of which is a changeable Exacto blade. It prevented me from dulling the blade of my ordinary knife with routine jobs, which meant that it remained sharp for activities like as climbing, camping, and more. A strong magnetic bit driver that latches firmly into place is another one of my favourites features. It comes with a screwdriver that can be used in both directions and has bits that are large enough to accomplish most jobs.

This tool is one of a kind due to its replaceable bits and the fact that they may be used at an angle of 90 degrees. In addition, there is a file, a plain edge blade, and an awl within. It was challenging to open the tools when they were first introduced, but after some use, they became much simpler to operate. Each one is secured with a plastic clip, which is a contemporary update on the traditional nail-nic, and opening the tools requires the use of both hands. If you're the kind of person who likes to pry things open with a bar, there's another version of this programme that gives you that functionality as well.

Best BudgetDewalt MT16 Multi Tool

The performance of the Dewalt M16 is remarkable considering the cost. I utilised the spring-loaded needle-nose pliers for jobs around the house and in the garden, as well as for removing porcupine quills from the mug that my dog uses. Even though I had sweaty palms, the rough surface and spring-loaded design of these grips allowed me to maintain a firm grasp on whatever I was doing, regardless of whether or not my hands were dry. The M16 is equipped with a number of the most practical tools available, such as a wire cutter, a wood and metal file, scissors, a Phillips head screwdriver, a flat head screwdriver, an opener for cans and bottles, a small knife, and a ruler.

The screwdriver was on the diminutive side in terms of size. Because of the size of the knife, I would not consider this to be the best option for a camping item that I could use to prepare food. However, if you are searching for a tool that can handle infrequent duties or are working with a limited budget, it is adequate for the job. When the tool is closed, you can access all of the tools with the exception of the pliers and the wire cutters. The tools are made of rust-resistant stainless steel, and one of them features a lanyard clasp that allows you to attach it to your belt so that you won't lose it in the event that you drop it.

Best SplurgeLeatherman Mr. Crunch

This one-hand-operable tool feels so good to use and hold, and it has so many highly functional features, that we are begging Leatherman to make it a permanent part of their line. Leatherman's limited run of Mr. Crunch sold out in just ten minutes, but the company has already sold out of its remaining inventory. Mr. Crunch is a product of Leatherman's new Garage, a division of the company that focuses on innovation, tests the limits of design and engineering, and finds surprising answers to issues through the creation of limited edition Leatherman tools. The first Leatherman, which Tim Leatherman sketched in 1975 and named "Mr. Crunch," featured twin pliers, but the pliers were removed from the final product because they were too difficult and expensive to manufacture. This tool, however, retains those pliers.

The Mr. Crunch is a hybrid tool that combines Leatherman's Free P4 with smooth-sided, parallel grip pliers. These pliers have the ability to morph into strong needle-nose pliers that have a broad work area. The tool makes use of the magnetic open and shut functionality of the Free, which enables fast, smooth, and simple access to all 21 tools. When not in use, the double pliers can be stored away in their carrying case by simply snapping them into place. It has one of the best wire cutters and strippers I've ever used on a multitool, plus the wire cutters are removable and replaceable. When Mr. Crunch is closed, I have access to all of the tools other than the pliers without having to open the tool. This is one of my favourite features.

Everyone who had the opportunity to utilise this tool was pleased by how each tool could lock open for usage but then release intuitively when it was time to close it. This feature was especially useful for people who use their left hands. Have we talked about the interchangeable eyeglass screwdriver that has sides with Phillips heads and flat heads? This tool is no longer available, but the Garage will continue to offer limited edition Leatherman items. If you are a multitool enthusiast and don't want to miss out on any future releases, be sure to bookmark this page and sign up for notification emails.

Best All-in-OneGerber Multi-Plier 600

This multitool was designed for use by the military and has undergone thorough testing in challenging environments all around the world. Full-size tools and pliers that can be extended with just a flick of the wrist are the two features that set the MP 600 different from its competitors. As a result of the fact that all of the tools are tucked into the handles from the inside, the exterior of the handle is constructed of smooth metal, making this multitool one of the most comfortable to use.

Before you become familiar with this tool, opening the knife, saw, and other equipment may be a little bit of a hassle for you. But once I did, I was impressed to see that all of the tools lock open, and I liked that this particular tool had a blade that can be either straight or serrated. Because all three screwdrivers with a flathead are stored in the same location, picking the appropriate one is uncomplicated. In addition, the tool possesses an effective locking mechanism. It was rock-solid and safe, and it stopped this tool from opening either in my pocket or within the sheath that came with it.

Best for PicnicsCRKT Triple Play Pocket Knife

After using the Triple Play from CRKT (Columbia River Knife & Tool), the corkscrew that came with your kitchen will appear inadequate in comparison. Picnickers, campers, people who make drinks at home, and anyone else who wants to open a bottle of high-quality vintage wine on a whim may find this device useful. In addition to a bottle opener and a corkscrew with leverage, the Triple Play comes equipped with two blades made of high-quality carbon stainless steel that can be easily sharpened and maintain an edge.

Once you've opened the primary blade using the nail nick, you'll be ready to start preparing antipasti for your backcountry feast. In order to remove the foil off a wine bottle without having to pick at it with your thumbnail, a blade about the size of a thumbnail has the appropriate curve for the job. In addition, I made some toothpick-sized skewers out of the small knife so that I could adorn the spread. Because the bottle opener is permanently exposed, you can pop the top of a cold one without having to open the knife. The tool has a deep carry clip and can be opened with both hands. An added perk is that the pakkawood handle is tough, polished, long-lasting, and comfortable to hold.

Best EDCSog Flash MT

This tool is one of the easiest to use, and it's perfect for someone who values quality above quantity. It doesn't add a lot of extra weight despite having a lot of added functionality. The Flash MT has seven tools, including a double-ended 4-millimeter bit, and one of the most robust pliers in any tool thanks to compound leverage, which gives them ridiculous grip strength for prying and pulling. Additionally, the Flash MT comes with a nylon sheath that is water-resistant and drop-proof. The assisted-open clip point blade is designed with a strong focus on functionality. I turned an old climbing rope into a tow rope by using it as a cutting tool. In addition to that, I utilised it in order to hone some Vermont cheddar.

The Flash MT is made almost entirely of metal and has a stainless steel shell that has a contemporary appearance. Additionally, it has a plastic clip that is used to keep the two-sided bit. When the tool is rotated to its open position, the clip is incorporated into the handle of the pliers. The contour of the object and the way the piece of plastic fit in my hand both felt natural. When I put the tool in my pocket and clipped it there, I frequently forgot that it was even there. It is extremely lightweight, small, and ergonomically designed.

Best Keychain ToolSwiss & Tech Micro-Max 19-in-1

The purchase of a lightweight microtool that can be attached to your car keys and does not add extra weight to your load is an intriguing proposition to consider. There are many keychain multitools that are not up to the standards necessary to win our recommendation. The Micro-Max 19-in-1 from Swiss & Tech may be compact, but it packs a powerful punch and is well worth the additional weight. The tool features pliers that were able to remove a porcupine quill from a dog's nose, screwdrivers that are large enough to tighten a loose roof rack, a short but practical ruler that measures in both millimetres and inches, a wire cutter, crimper, and stripper, and the all-important bottle opener.

When I needed to add a handle to a canvas bag, the hand drill on the tool assisted me in creating a small hole in the bag. The Micro Max, made by Swiss and Tech, contains 19 different tools but weighs less than 2 ounces. The fact that the pliers can accommodate bits of any standard size is my favourite feature. Because of this, I was able to utilise it as a hex wrench holder when I needed to adjust the cleat bolts on my bike shoes.

Best Rescue ToolBenchmade Triage 9170SBK

This is the knife for you if you want a sturdy blade that is extremely sharp and can potentially save your life in the event of a car accident or any other emergency that involves a vehicle. The instrument that you will utilise the vast majority of the time will be a drop point serrated blade. The blade has a dark finish, is robust and aggressive, and is large enough to be used for hunting and camping. Both survival in the wilderness and food preparation required its use. However, the advantages of having it do not stop there. The Triage is prepared in the event that you find yourself in a position to help someone who is trapped by a seat belt or locked in a situation where breaking glass is the only way out.

The remarkable auto opening and locking blade is just one of the many features that come standard on the Triage. This knife also comes equipped with everything you need to safely exit a vehicle in the event of an emergency. A glass breaker is located at the end of the tool's tail, and an auto-opening slicing hook is housed within the tool's textured aluminium handle. Additionally, the handle has a textured surface that prevents it from slipping regardless of which function you are utilising. You will need to get some experience with this knife before you can become proficient at unlocking the two locks. And it's not just a knife that you'll use and love all the time; it's also one that you'll want to have on hand for the one occasion when the distinctive qualities it possesses could end up saving your life or the life of someone else.

Best for CyclistsTopeak ALiEN X

The ALiEN X is a two-section, 34-function folding tool that features most of the equipment you'll need for field repair of a modern bicycle. It's like carrying a whole bike shop in your back pocket. The ALiEN X is comprised of two sections. Master link pliers? Check. Presta valve puller? Check. In addition, the tool comes with Torx sizes T10, T15, T20, T25, and T30, as well as a disc spacer. The tool may be separated into two halves, and each of the tools can be reached with relative ease. It's possible that some users will cringe at the idea of having this tool on the bike with them, but it will drastically cut down on the chances of you becoming stuck while you're far away from assistance, and it's large enough to provide leverage for doing things like tightening bolts. To put it another way, this is the tool that I will bring with me on important mountain bike rides.

However, it is also an excellent tool for a home workshop because it is a lot more cost-effective than purchasing each tool separately and it includes a lot of items that the majority of users only use sometimes, such as a chain tool and spoke wrenches. The device has a knife with serrations, which proved useful while slicing and chopping various delicacies. Additionally, it contains storage spaces for a chain pin as well as a master link.

Final Verdict
There is no other tool that offers such a great balance of affordability and functionality as the Leatherman Curl, which you can view on Amazon. It is a tool with a high level of functionality that is designed for general users. Even if it isn't the tiniest tool, it's still tiny enough to keep in your pack or pocket at all times, making it one of the most easily accessible tools.

What You Should Search for in a Multitool Different Categories of Tools
Consider the breadth of your requirements if you are truly interested in purchasing an EDC tool, one that can accommodate the demands of both work and leisure. If you require a device that can both pinch and grasp, look for one that has bomber pliers. If you spend most of your time stripping and cutting wire or preparing food for picnics, you should select a tool that gives priority to those activities. It's possible that the greatest tool for kayaking is not the same as the best tool for rock climbing, hiking, or a bug-out bag. If you're looking for the best tool, consider all of your options. A tool that fits on a keychain will never leave your side, but it might not be up to the challenge of more challenging jobs.

Then there are the secondary tools, which are ones that you probably won't use on a daily basis but that you still need to make sure you have. I adore multitools that have functional scissors, and I want pliers that are durable as well. On the other hand, I could care less about an awl.
Durability
Take into account the longevity of the tool, as well as the interchangeability of its various components. If you enjoy whittling, you'll need a blade that can keep its edge after repeated use. If your screwdriver will see more use than other components of your toolkit, you might consider investing in one that has interchangeable bits.
Considerations Regarding Weight, Price
Find a happy medium between the tool's weight, comfort, and cost. Because I intend to keep this device on me at all times, it is necessary for it to have a pleasant grip for me to use, but I also need it to be portable enough that I can easily transport it. Because I have zero tolerance for subpar knife blades, I am willing to shell out a higher sum of money in order to ensure that whichever equipment I buy will serve me for many years to come. Left-handed people may find that tools that are comfortable to use for right-handed people cause discomfort when they switch to using them with their dominant hand.