The new year is here, and it is time to prepare for some good old-fashioned survival situations. Whether camping, hiking, or just going for a walk in the woods, it is vital to carry a survival multi-tool with you at all times. This tool can help you in many ways and make life easier.
Not all multi-tools are created equal. Some are more durable or have more features than others, so how do you pick the right one?
In this article, we’ve rounded up five of our favorite brands for survival multi-tools on the market today and a guide on choosing one that is right for your needs.
We also answer some frequently asked queries about these tools. So you’ll know what you’re getting into before investing in one.
Best Survival Multitool Brands
Here are some of the best survival multi tools:
1. LEATHERMAN, Wave Plus Multitool
The Leatherman Wave is a popular survival multi-tool on the market today. The first thing you’ll notice when you open up the box is that there’s a nylon sheath included with your purchase. And this is great because it protects your tool from getting damaged while not using it. Furthermore, it makes it easy to carry around in your pocket or pack without worrying about damaging anything else you might have.
Features
The tool comes with replaceable wire cutters, which means that if they break, you can easily replace them. A wire cutter is excellent because wires tend to break when cutting off things like metal fences, trees, etc. So having these replaceable ones will save us some time from buying another from the store every time something happens.
The locking mechanisms on this tool are solid and durable. The blades of this multi-tool lock in place firmly, and they don’t slip out even if you apply pressure to them. With this locking mechanism, you won’t have to worry about accidentally cutting yourself while using the blade or screwdriver.
Most Leatherman tools have one-handed access, including this brand. And this makes it easy to use the device even when wearing gloves or having other things in your hands.
The Wave Plus is a good multi-tool and comes equipped with a black oxide finish that looks great and protects against corrosion while maintaining its shine over time. The stainless steel handles are comfortable to hold during any task and will last forever as long as you properly care for them by using oil periodically on moving parts. If you want an outdoor multi-tool that will withstand years of abuse in harsh conditions, then this is what you’re looking for.
- Great tool variety
- 25-years warranty
- Lightweight and pretty compact
- High-quality tools
- Amazing customer service
- Loosening the hinges is time-consuming
- Uncomfortable screwdrivers
2. Victorinox Swiss Army Multi-Tool
Victorinox Swiss Army Multi-Tool is one of the most versatile and best multi-tools available. It’s a great survival tool and a perfect everyday carry (edc multi-tool) gift for anyone who loves to travel. It comes with 33 different functions. Hence it is an ideal tool for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, campers, and more.
Features
The Swiss Army Knife also has a wood saw, which can come in handy if you need to cut something down or make some kind of shelter out in the wilds of nature. You can also use it to cut through thin metal surfaces if needed.
Besides, the tool features a Phillips screwdriver included with this knife to help you tighten up any screws that may be loose while out on your trip.
Another reason people love this multi-tool is that different color options are available for each model. You can choose from red, black, or other models depending on your preference for color or style. Therefore no matter who you are buying for or what situation they may be using it in, there will be an option suitable for their needs.
The camping multi-tool features fishing tools. Its fish scaler helps you clean the scales off of fresh-caught fish. And this can be a helpful tool when cooking food over an open flame. For instance, you can use it when kitchen utensils are unavailable to help you prepare your meal. The fish scaler is one of the unique features found on the Victorinox Swiss Army Multi-Tool. It is not something that other brands offer on their products. Still, you’ll get a can opener.
The Victorinox Swiss Army Multi-Tool comes with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. And this is not just any warranty, but one that’ll last as long as you own the product. In addition, the brand will replace it if anything goes wrong during normal usage. That is not something that often happens with other brands.
- Large/small knife for different occasions
- Finely sharpened
- Durable
- Poorly placed chisel
- No locking option
3. SOG Multitool Pliers
The SOG Multitool Pliers is an excellent survival multi-tool that has many features. One of the most critical features is the black oxide and stainless steel coating. The black oxide coating protects the tool from corrosion, while the stainless steel provides strength and durability.
Features
The socket driver is one of the best features of SOG multi-tool pliers. It helps change car tires on an emergency basis. You can also use it for other tasks, such as tightening nuts and bolts, removing nails from wood, etc. The socket driver is attached to the side of the handle of these multi-tool pliers, so it’s easy to access even when your hands are full.
The brand’s keychain multi-tools have been tested and approved by the military. That is one of the fantastic features of this product because it shows just how reliable this tool is regarding durability and performance. It passed all military standards without any problems, making it one of the most durable survival tools.
The SOG Multitool Pliers feature a side release that makes it easy to open or close them when needed. That makes them easier to use than other survival tools that require you to twist them open or close them manually. Thus, it may take some time if your hands are tired from other activities like hiking or hunting. The feature is excellent when trying to fix something in tight spaces.
When using other multi-tools, your hands can get strained from using them too much or trying to force something into place. And this is different from the SOG Multitool Pliers. It doesn’t require much effort to use. Hence less strain on your hands and more time spent doing other things than trying to get something working again.
- Locking mechanism
- One-hand opening
- Lifetime warranty
- Cheaply constructed plastic belt clip
- It lacks a pocket clip
4.Gerber Gear 07550G1N Needle Nose Pliers Multitool
The brand’s sleek butterfly design allows easy access to each blade by squeezing the handles open and flipping them out with a simple thumb movement. When finished with each blade, press the handles together and flip them back into their storage position within the handle.
Features
The Gerber Gear 07550G1N Needle Nose Pliers Multitool comes with three different blades that are very useful in many situations. The serrated blade is excellent for cutting through challenging items such as rope or wire; the straight-edge blade is suitable for cutting through wood or metal, and the saw blade is ideal for cutting through wood or plastic materials.
Another thing that makes this multi-tool stand out is that it is made of stainless steel. Therefore, it will not rust easily or break down over time. Also, it will be able to withstand many different kinds of stressors. Thus, it makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking for long-term durability in their tool.
The Gerber Gear 07550G1N Needle Nose Pliers Multitool has needle nose pliers with spring loading. This feature allows you to easily grip items in your hand without worrying about slipping out of your hands while working with them.
The brand has a fantastic locking system that locks the blades for added safety and security when cutting tasks. The tools’ lock allows you to focus on your job without worrying about hurting yourself or others who may be nearby while using this tool.
The multi-tool features a one-handed deployment mechanism to access your tools quickly. And this makes them easy to use even when wearing gloves or other protective gear such as oven mitts or thick rubber gloves.
- Affordable
- Best for large tasks
- Great and compact multi-tool
- Bulky
- Knife blades are too tight
5. LEATHERMAN, Tread Bracelet, The Original Travel-Friendly Wearable Multitool, Black
The most significant advantage of the LEATHERMAN Tread Bracelet is that it is customizable. You can pick between different colors and sizes, making it perfect for any occasion or person. You can also change the tools that you want on your bracelet. If you travel often or do not need specific tools in certain situations, you can remove them and add others.
This brand is TSA-compliant, which means you can take it with you on an airplane without taking it out of your bag at security. It’s also comfortable to wear since there are no sharp edges or pinches. In addition, the design is super simple since no moving parts or complicated mechanisms could break down.
Features
The LEATHERMAN Tread Bracelet contains several essential tools, including Phillips head screwdrivers. You can use these tools to fix or repair almost anything on your trip or adventure. The bracelet also contains a box wrench that fits oxygen tanks. So you can adjust them if needed during an emergency where you need oxygen tanks for survival purposes.
Another prominent feature of the Leatherman multi-tool bracelet is its lightweight design. It only weighs 1.12 ounces, so it won’t weigh down your wrist as you walk around town or hike through the woods. That makes this bracelet easy to wear daily without worrying about being uncomfortable or heavy on your arm.
The bracelet is made from stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance. The material makes this survival bracelet strong enough to withstand daily use without breaking down over time. Besides, since it’s stainless steel, it won’t pick up any stains from dirt or grime like other metals might do over time. So no matter how often you wear or wash your bracelet, it will always look great.
- 25 years warranty
- Well built
- Easily adjustable
- Fast delivery
- Expensive
- Tiny wrists need link removal
How to Choose the Best Survival Multi-tool
Multi-tools are a great way to ensure you have the tools you need. And this is because they combine multiple devices into one compact package. Unfortunately, hundreds of multi-tools are on the market today, so choosing the right one can take time and effort. Here are some essential tips to help you find the best camping multi-tool for your needs.
- Functionality
You will want to ensure that your outdoor survival gear has all the necessary features. These include spring-loaded pliers, wire cutters, knife sharpeners, needle nose pliers, magnifying glasses, oxygen tank wrenches, knives, and a wire stripper. You should also look for tools with multiple functions in one device. For example, some models have a knife blade and bottle opener on one end and can fold into pliers on the other. So this makes them very versatile tools you can use for many different tasks on an outdoor tour.
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Size and Weight
The size and weight of your tool are essential considerations. Consequently, you may want to select a lighter device if you carry a heavy pack. On the other hand, if you wear your tool on your belt for quick access, it needs to be light enough for comfortable everyday wear.
Size and weight also affect how much force a multi-tool can deliver. For example, smaller multi-tools can’t open as many types of fasteners as larger ones can and may need more leverage to do so.
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Durability
You also want a multi-tool built to last long enough to get your money’s worth out of it. It should be helpful for more than just camping or hiking trips. If you’re going on an extended backpacking trip through the wilderness, you don’t want your knife breaking after just a few days because of poor quality construction materials used. Look for models made from high-quality alloys like stainless steel or titanium instead of nickel-plated steel or aluminum. They can wear out quickly under heavy use conditions.
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Price
It is essential to know that you get what you pay for. If a tool is too cheap, it might not be able to do what you intend it for. However, it is also vital not to overspend on something that you think will be useful but isn’t necessary or you won’t ever use. Think about the most important features and whether they warrant their separate purchase rather than going all-in on one product with everything in one place. Some multi-tools come with more tools than others, while some offer a higher quality in terms of materials used. However, these differences in features and quality often result in higher prices.
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Safety
Safety is the most crucial feature when choosing a survival multi-tool. The last thing you want is an emergency where your multi-tool is not up to par and fails to perform its job correctly. Besides, you’ll want something that will stay sharp and not cut off your fingers when using it. To ensure safety, look for a multi-tool with multiple locking mechanisms and ergonomic designs, as this will make it less likely to injure yourself while using your tool.
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Brand Reputation
Another important consideration when choosing a survival multi-tool is brand reputation. Many different brands are offering different types of multi-tools. Thus, you should research before buying one to know what quality to expect from the tools. If possible, look up reviews online. Still, you can ask friends who own the same model of a tool what they thought about their experience with their purchase and how well it held up over time. Doing this will help ensure you don’t waste money on an inferior product that doesn’t meet your expectations or break after just a few.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the benefits of a multi-tool?
Multi-tools are designed to be portable so that you can carry them wherever you go. And this is especially helpful when you need quick repairs or maintenance on your vehicle or other equipment. For example, if your car overheats or breaks down in an isolated area, having a multi-tool can make it much easier to get back on the road again. It’s also nice for camping trips and hikes because it only takes up a little space in your bag or pocket.
Multi-tools are for more than fixing things. They’re also helpful in performing everyday tasks like opening bottles and boxes. All in all, there are dozens of uses for multi-tools, which makes them very versatile tools to have around the house. Even if they don’t have all the tools you might need at any given moment, they’re still worth having around because they can help you when other full-sized tools aren’t available.
2. How many multi-tools can you have?
Well, it depends on what you want. For example, some people carry as many multi-tools as they can fit in their pockets or bag. So, it’s possible to have too many tools in your kit. But, on the other hand, it’s also possible to have too few tools in your kit at a time.
There are a lot of multi-tools out there, and they’re all different. Some have more tools, and some have fewer. Others are made of steel or aluminum. Some have pliers and knives, while others have scissors and screwdrivers.
Most of them are good. However, if you want to buy one, you should ensure it’s the right one. The best multi-tool is the one that gets used. If you’re spending money on something, you want it to be useful for more.
3. Are multi-tools allowed on planes?
If you are flying, you better know the rules about multi-tools. The TSA has strict rules regarding what kinds of tools you can bring on airplanes. For example, sharp tools aren’t allowed on planes. So if your multi-tool has a pocket knife blade, it’s best to pack it away before you head to the airport. The TSA considers all knives dangerous weapons, whether small or foldable.
Scissors should not be more than 4 inches long (blade length). Other tools like pliers and screwdrivers are okay if they don’t have blades or sharp edges. It makes sense since those wouldn’t be allowed on planes anyway. Besides, you should check with your airline before using any tool.
4. When would you use a multi-tool?
Multi-tools are prevalent tools among outdoor enthusiasts and those working in the garage or around the house. Multi-tools are so helpful because they combine several standard tools into one device. Hence, that makes them more convenient than carrying around multiple tools. In addition to this, multi-tools are very durable and reliable. They are, therefore, great for everyday use when you need something simple but effective. They can help you fix anything from broken pipes to leaky tires. They’re also great for any emergency where you need to cut something or open something up without specialized tools.
5. Are multi-tools worth it?
Yes! Multi-tools are worth it because they provide you with more than one tool at once without carrying around multiple items. For example, if you want a pair of pliers and a saw, it may not make sense to bring individual tools separately since they both have similar functions. Instead, having them on your multi-tool at all times can reduce the number of items you need to carry around when going outdoors.
A quality multi-tool will last you years, if not decades. It is one of those things that you will never regret buying unless it breaks. Most people who own one say that they never leave home without it.
6. Can a multi-tool cut stone?
The answer depends on the type of stone you’re trying to cut and the thickness of that stone. Most stones are made up of quartz, which is hard but brittle. So, it takes a very sharp blade to cut through them effectively. However, if your blade isn’t sharp enough to do this job, it’s time for some maintenance.
The main difference between cutting wood and stone is the speed at which it’s done. For example, you will want to use a slower speed setting on your tool when cutting wood. Because this allows you to control the device better and ensure it doesn’t catch on anything. On the other hand, when cutting stone, you can use a higher speed setting if you’re careful to avoid catching it on anything.
Another difference between wood and stone is that stone is much harder than wood. So if you don’t choose the right blade for the job, it won’t work very well.
Conclusion
As you can see, all the tools in our list are high-quality survival multi-tools available today. However, although some seem to have similar functionality, each has its benefits and drawbacks. Therefore, when choosing any of them, you should consider what is most vital for you personally.
