For many people, carrying a Best Multi-Tool is the handiest tool they own. Whether making a quick auto repair, fishing, camping, or fixing a small home project, the everyday carry Multi-Tool is an amazing little invention – and one of the most valuable tools you can own.
The only challenge may be which one is the Best Multi-Tool to buy.
That decision gets easier, though; once you determine “where” or “how,” you often use this tool.
As a builder and sport fisherman, I certainly know my first choice – But the best multi-tool for you – will be the one that matches up with your own daily needs.
Some folks prefer to carry a small keychain multi-tool for everyday use, like the Gerber “Dime,” and own a more specific multi-tool, such as the Leatherman “Skeletool,” for hobbies like hiking, fishing, or camping.
Tip: A Multi-Tool is a fantastic gift for Dads, Grads, or Groomsmen!
To help narrow the field down for you, we selected the 12 best multi-tools in 2022, thoroughly reviewed each, then listed the best features of each multi-tool.
While some multi-tools are considered EDC (Everyday Carry), others are designed for specific tasks such as Cycling, Camping, or Tactical operations.
Check out our FAQ section for multi-tools, where we answer general questions about multi-tools – things you should know before purchasing.
The following are our Top Ten Multi-Tools – Many from different categories.
Best Multi-Tool (Reviews For 2023)
The Top-Rated Multi-Tools You Can Buy:
- Leatherman: Surge
- Leatherman: Wingman
- Gerber: Suspension
- Gerber: Dime
- Leatherman: Skeletool
- SOG: Power-lock
- TF: Take Flight
- Swiss Army: CS Plus
- Crankbrothers: Cycling Tool
- Bravedge: Multi-Tool Axe
Editor’s Choice: Leatherman Surge Multi-Tool
Why We Like It
In our opinion, the Leatherman Surge is the best Leatherman multi-tool. The Surge offers the quality and dependability consumers expect from the Leatherman brand. Whether you need a knife, pliers, or a screwdriver, the Surge multi-tool covers you.
Specs for this model:
- 21 Tools included
- Stainless steel
- Weight: 1 pound
- Replaceable wire cutters
- 25-year warranty
Video: Ways to Use Leatherman “Surge” Multi-Tool:
Our Take Away. Few multi-tools can readily compete in terms of sheer quality, construction, and the range of the 21 most used tools. Overall, the Leatherman Surge is a great EDC multi-tool for all occasions and uses.
As with all Leatherman multi-tools, the Surge is covered by a 25-year limited warranty, ensuring your tool will continue working correctly for years.
Leatherman Multi-Tool
Runner Up: Leatherman Wingman
Why We Like It
Another member of the Leatherman family, the Wingman is a more stripped-down tool than the Surge but still offers plenty of functionality. Like the Surge, the Wingman is invaluable in home projects and simple troubleshooting.
Specs for this model
- 14 Tools included
- Stainless steel
- Length: 3.8 inches
- Weight: 8 ounces
- 25-year warranty
Our Take Away
Though it features fewer tools than the Leatherman Surge model above, the Wingman is still an excellent multi-tool made to handle whatever life throws your way.
Some consumers may prefer the more stripped-down approach of the Wingman since it weighs half as much and still makes finding and deploying the right tools for the job a lot easier.
Leatherman Wingman Multi-Tool
Best Value: Gerber “Suspension” Multi-Tool
Why We Like It
Made for rugged use, the Gerber Suspension multi-tool stands out for its construction quality and user-friendly design. When carrying it, you’ll be ready for anything with this high-quality but affordable survival multi-tool.
Specs for this model
- 12 Tools included
- Stainless steel
- Rubber grip
- Ballistic Nylon Sheath
- Weight: 9.6 ounces
Our Take Away
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better multi-tool for the price. Although it doesn’t have the same tool selection as the Leatherman Surge multi-tool, this “suspension multi-tool is from acclaimed manufacturer Gerber. I
t has all the basics to make quick repairs and tackle everyday projects without hassle.
Gerber Suspension – Multi-Tool
Best Keychain Multi-Tool: Gerber “Dime”
Why We Like It
When putting together our multi-tool reviews, we knew we had to have at least one keychain model. Our top choice in the category of Best Keychain multi-tool is the Gerber Dime, a very compact multi-tool with ten tools that can easily hang from your keychain.
Specs for this model
- Ten Tools included
- Stainless steel
- Open length: 4.25 inches
- Closed length: 2.75 inches
- Weight: 2.2 ounces
Our Take Away
The Gerber Dime is a great tool to own if you’re looking for the best small multi-tool on your keychain. While this is one of the smallest Gerber multi-tools, it is made with quality and precision and can be expected to give you years of excellent service.
Gerber Dime – Multi-Tool
Best Lightweight Multi-Tool: Leatherman “Skeletool”
Why We Like It
Yet another Leatherman appearing on our best multi-tool list is the Skeletool, and at only 5 ounces, it’s a lightweight option intended to be a comfortable concealed carry multi-tool. With a smaller size and lower weight, this model is also ideal for keeping in your pocket. It’s the perfect multi-tool for snowy weather or ice fishing with gloves.
Specs for this model
- Seven tools included
- Stainless Steel
- Length: 5 inches
- Weight: 5 ounces
- 25-year warranty
Our Take Away
If you’re looking for a great EDC multi-tool, it’s hard to beat the Skeletool. With Leatherman quality, this multi-tool is sure to please just about anyone.
Leatherman Skeletool – Multi-Tool
Best “Tactical” Multi-Tool: SOG “Power-Lock”
Why We Like It
Like Leatherman, SOG is a brand heavily associated with quality, heavy-duty multi-tools. During the Vietnam era, SOG started over 40 years ago, and many consider the SOG Powerlock one of the best tactical multi-tools to own.
SOG lives up to its reputation as one of the best Multi-Tool brands on the market, and a SOG multi-tool with a saw will stand up to just about anything you can dish out.
Specs for this model
- 18 tools included
- Stainless Steel
- Length: 4.6 inches
- Weight: 9.6 inches
Our Take Away
The SOG PowerLock stood out as a heavy-duty contender in our multi-tool reviews. Thanks to its robust construction and a good selection of tools and trimmers.
You’ll never want to leave the house without this multi-tool in your you’ll. This model also offers a feature called compound leverage.
With this unique SOG feature, compound leverage increases the pressure on the pliers or cutters, allowing you to get a firmer grip and make cleaner twists or cuts. Because of its tool selection choices and sound quality, the SOG also gets our vote for the best military multi-tool.
SOG Power Lock Multi-Tool
Best Tactical Pen Multi-Tool: TF “Take flight.”
Why We Like It
The only multi-tool we’ve reviewed offers a writing pen and a functional multi-tool. The TF “Take flight” tactical pen includes the 4-in-1 option of using it as a Writing pen, Flashlight, Break-glass tool, or Bottle opener.
Specs
- Ballpoint Black Ink – Writing Pen – with Extra Refill cartridge
- LED Flashlight with – 2 Extra Batteries
- Glass Breaker Emergency Escape Tip
- Bottle Opener
Our Take Away
The TF “Take flight” 4-in-1 tactical pen makes a more limited multi-tool than other multi-tool” in our review.
However, if you are someone who typically a pen daily, such as a first responder, military, or for another profession or type of business, the TF Take Flight multi-tool includes some of the best basic tool options you could need.
At under $30, The Take Flight tactical pen is also the perfect gift for a wedding, Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, or birthday.
TF Take flight – Multi-Tool.
Best Multi-Tool for Cyclists: Crankbrothers
Why We Like It
We get it – Some people would rather be out riding a bike than sitting on a lawnmower. But when you’re out riding a bicycle, you never know when you’ll need to make an on-the-go repair, so For this reason, check out the best bike multi-tool from Crankbrothers.
This bicycle multi-tool should be part of every cyclist’s carrying habit.
Specs for this model
- Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
- Tcyclist’sex bits
- Lifetime warranty
- Length: 6 inches
- Weight: 5.6 ounces
Our Take Away
Far and away, this is the best EDC tool 2019 for cyclists. If you find yourself in a tight spot, you’ll be able to use the Crankbrothers multi-tool to get yourself back on the
Crankbrothers Bike Tool
Best Multi-Tool With Ratchet: Swiss Army CS Plus
Why We Like It
While there are many knives like the Swiss Army, the original multi-tool manufacturer still performs actively in the market and is more or less founded. The Swiss Army CS plus multi-tools takes the concept of a multi-tool to the “next level” by including a ratchet.
The Ratchet wrench makes it much easier to rem”ve bolts” a pinch and work on mechanical parts, helping expand the capabilities of this tool dramatically.
Specs for this model
- 37 functions, including a ratchet wrench
- Stainless steel
- Length: 4.13 inches
- Weight: 17.13 ounces
Our Take Away
Having a ratchet wrench like the Swiss Army takes multi-tools to a new level of functionality. This helpful feature almost automatically propelled the CS Plus to a spot on our multi-tool review list.
Swiss Army CS Plus – Multi-Tool
Best Multi-Tool Axe: Bravedge Multi-Tool Axe
Why We Like It
Let us know if there’s something more incredible than a Multi-Tool Axe! The Bravedge Axe may be the best multi-tool for camping for functionality.
Whether you need to cut down a tree or open canned food, this tool has the features you need.
Specs for this model
- 12 tools included
- Stainless steel
- Length: 6.7 inches
- Weight: 14.8 ounces
Our Take Away
This multi-tool is a great thing to have for camping excursions. While you probably won’t end up carrying a multi-function Axe in your pocket as part of your EDC, this won’t do an excellent job for the purpose it was designed for, Camping.
Bravedge Multi Tools with Axe
Best For Camping: Leatherman Signal Multi-Tool
Why We Like It
Another strong contender as the best camping multi-tool is the Leatherman Signal. Made especially for camping, this nearly military multi-tool will help you stay safe and prepared in the great outdoors.
Specs for this model
- 18 tools included
- Stainless steel
- Length: 4.5 inches
- Weight: 7.5 ounces
- 25-year warranty
Our Take Away
If you’re planning a camping trip soon, the Leatherman Signal is a great tool to have with you. The Signal offers excellent quality and a good selection of tools as part of the multi-tool Leatherman line.
Thanks to its focus on camping, the Signal from Leatherman provides you with everything you need to travel to the woods.
Leatherman Signal – Multi-Tool
Best “One-Handed” Multi-tool: Leatherman OHT
Why We Like It
Rounding out our list of multi-tool reviews is the Leatherman OHT. The OHT makes it easier to do two tasks simultaneously for a one-handed operation.
Specs for this model
- 16 tools included
- Stainless steel
- Each tool is made for one-hand operation
- Length: 5.2 inches
- Weight: 0.62 pounds
- 25-year warranty
Our Take Away
The OHT is another excellent example of Leatherman’s wide range of great 2019 multi-tool offerings that go above and beyondLeatherman’sd a tool that can be used with only one hand while you use your other hand for a different task; this is the multi-tool for you.
This one gets our highest ranking for the best EDC pliers tool and survival multi-tool with its super practical selection of the 16 best multi-tool choices.
Leatherman OHT Multi-Tool
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Is a Multi-Tool?
The term multi-tool is (unfortunately) used to describe two completely different types of tools.
The first type of multi-tool is a power tool that includes oscillating, chiseling, or cutting tool heads.
For our purposes and this Review, the second use of the term multi-tool – describes a hand tool that can be used for several different functions, such as pliers, a screwdriver, a knife, etc. Most multi-tools include several individual tool attachments folded into the tool for easy carrying.
What are The Best Uses of a Multi-Tool?
Manufacturers like “Leatherman” offer as many as 14 tool options in one Multi-Tool. The most popular multi-tool uses are a screwdriver, pliers, knife, wire cutter, bottle opener, file, or ruler.
Who Invented the Multi-Tool?
We all know the first multi-tool by its more common name, the “Swiss Army Knife.” First manufactured in 1891 in Switzerland by Karl Elsener, a surgical equipment manufacturer.
The Elsener family in 1908 formed what is now known as Victorinox, which still manufactures the Original Swiss Army Knife.
Multi-tools today, like the Swiss army knife, include pliers, knives, screwdrivers, wire cutters, and saws.
Other standard attachments include files, bottle openers, corkscrews, scissors, and other valuable items.
Is a Credit Card Size Multi-Tool Any Good?
While credit card-sized multi-tools certainly have limitations over traditional multi-tools, many users claim they offer all the functions they need – in a pinch. Wallet-sized models like the “Wallet Ninja” are not only the easiest to carry – but one of the most affordable multi-tools on”the market.
Who Makes the Best Multi-Tool?
Across the board, the best multi-tool company is almost certainly Leatherman. With several premium models and their ongoing devotion to necessary quality, it’s tough to go wrong with a Leatherman multi-tool.
The peace of mind Leatherman lets get from a 25-year limited warranty is something no other manufacturer has yet to compete with.
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Is a Multi-Tool Worth The Price?
That depends on the work you perform daily. If you work in a construction or mechanical trade, a multi-tool can be extremely valuable to have on hand. In addition, if you enjoy camping, Cycling, or hiking, you will also benefit significantly from carrying one of these tools.
In addition, Multi-Tools can be purchased in various functions, suitable for your budget.
What Is the Best Tactical Tool to Buy?
For the price, we think the best tactical multi-tool is the SOG PowerLock. Thanks to its incredibly high construction standards, 18 multi-function tool selection, and competitive pricing, the SOG multi-tool stands up well to extreme conditions and extended use.
Our SOG multi-tool review found the SOG vs. Leatherman to be the best overall value for the amount of functionality you’ll get. Of course, if you have a higher budget and need more tools, look at other Leatherman Multi-tools.
What is the Best EDC Multi-Tool?
My favorite EDC (“Everyday Carry”) tool is the Gerber “Suspension for several reasons. It includes the 12 functions I use most often and meets all my needs in an everyday carry (EDC) tool.
Weight – At only 9.6 oz. The Gerber Suspension is roughly half the weight of more expensive multi-tools. And priced At only $32, it won’t break the bank like a $100 Leatherman with 21 tools.
Which Is the Best Multi-Tool for Camping?
With today’s choices in Multi-Tools, there is no reason to be left alone in the wilderness with only a knife when you can have a multi-tool “with a knife” and all the other tools that will make your camping experience much better.
However, our top-rated multi-tool for camping would be the Brave Edge Axe or the Leatherman Surge.
Where Are SOG Multi-Tools Made?
SOG is a U.S.-based company founded in”1986 and located in Lynnwood, Washington.
Which Is Better; Leatherman, Gerber, or SOG?
While both are excellent tool companies, they typically win in different categories.
Leatherman tools are generally considered the best quality, with SOG held in the highest regard as the best Tactical Knife Multi-tool, but Gerber tends to win out in terms of the best value multi-tool.
As with many purchasing decisions, the real question is what you want and need in a multi-tool.
Check out our most popular article for the DIY homeowner – The Cheapest Way to Build a Privacy Fence.
Conclusion
If you’re in the market for a new multi-tool, the models listed above should give you a good starting point and ideas to help narrow your search.
Overall, we recommend Leatherman Surge as the best all-around multi-tool. With the Surge multi-tool, you get 21 functions to handle anything that comes your way.
The Leatherman Wingman runner-up is also a solid option if you’re looking for excellent quality and an extensive 14-function multi-tool.
In our Best Value category, we recommend the Gerber Suspension multi-tool, a fantastic lightweight 12-function multi-tool that offers excellent features at a price practically anyone can afford.
And finally, if you’re looking for an extra small multi-tool, look at the Gerber “Dime,” the top-rated keychain multi-tool sold on Amazon. You can even choose from 7 different colors!
However, the best multi-tool for you may be one of the other items on our list besides the four mentioned above. If you want an excellent multi-tool for your pocket or backpack, it’s hard to go wrong with any of the models we’ve reviewed here.
We hope our Best Multi-Tools Review has helped you learn and narrow your search!
If you would like to see another multi-tool reviewed or any other product suggestions, please don’t hesitate to comment below.
Thanks For Visiting, and don’t miss our other reviews at BestHomeGear.Com
Additional References and Reading:
- 10 Ways a Multi-Tool Will Help You Survive – Leatherman.Com
- The Best Infrared Heater to Buy – Besthomegear.com
- How To Take Care of a Multi-Tool – SOG Knives.Com
- Five Best Things to Look For in an EDC Multi-Tool – Leatherman.Com
- The Best Gas Weed Eaters On The Market in 2020 – Besthomegear.com
