Best EDC Multitool
Question: I'm in the market for a new multitool to EDC and don't know which one to buy. I've looked at the ones from Leatherman and the Gerber tools, but the choices seem overwhelming. Any advice is appreciated. -Robert in Indianapolis
Answer: As you've seen there are a myriad of options when choosing a multitool. The best one to EDC will depend on your needs. If size is critical, something like the Leatherman Squirt E4 or P4 will come in handy but will fit on to a key chain. If you want a tool that is more functional and can be clipped to your pocket, take a look at the Leatherman Kick or Fuse. They are a minimalist design without the bells and whistles. An aftermarket pocket clip can be added to the Kick making it quick to access.
If you're looking at a full-size multitool, then the Gerber tool is another brand to look at. They feature fast access to the pliers, if that is important. The SOG tool is also highly regarded, but I have no experience with one.
For an all-around tool, the Leatherman Wave or Charge would be hard to beat. They allow one-handed access to locking knife blades without opening the tool. It's like having a folding knife and multitool in one.
Of all the brands, the highest quality multitools, in my opinion, are the Victorinox Swisstools. The Swisstool Spirit is nice because it's a little bit lighter than the regular Swisstool but still has all of the same functions.
Decide what you need the tool to do then look at those recommendations. Any of the above tools will serve you well.
Find Multitools on eBay!
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Docker's Black Trifold Wallet & Multitool Set BRAND NEW |  |
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US $29.99 | 18m |
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Northern Ind. Woodland MultiTool + Knife Set # MTS-685 | |
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US $19.99 | 1h 58m |
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Bar Boy multitool with corkscrew | |
1 Bid | US $7.99 | 2h 50m |
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Leatherman Freestyle CX 831082 Free Style multitool NEW | |
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US $45.72 | 3h 24m |
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CRKT 9075 Lil Guppie Knife & Multitool, Grey Handle | |
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US $24.95 | 3h 45m |
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P Smith on Sat, 17th Jul 2010 7:25 am
The first thing I did when looking at multitools was decide what I would be using it for, then try to find one that met all my needs. It’s better to have too many parts on a multitool than too few, so I erred on the side of caution. But since no single tool met my needs, either not enough or far too many extras, I rethought how to meet my needs.
My use was for around the home for repairs, for travel, and as a bike tool. I found that a combination of tools was good enough, a basic leatherman plus a multitool specifically made for bicycles (Allen keys, flat blade and a Phillips head) similar to this:
http://www.bicycleeverything.com/product_images/u/567/park_aws_9_fold_up_hex_wrench_bicycle_set__35159_zoom.jpg
It means having two tools, but at home that’s no problem, and in a bike bag, weight isn’t an issue either. I also have the benefit of being able to use a driver and the pliers as a wrench simultaneously.
Here’s another bicycle tool that can be useful, a flat piece of metal with many socket sizes.
http://www.rockshorecycles.co.uk/ekmps/shops/rsbikestore/images/bicycle-multifunctional-spanner-wrench-72-p.jpg
The main point again: think about what YOU will or may be using the multitool for and meet *every* need. Don’t leave yourself shorthanded.