Rating of the best multi-tools for all occasions

A multitool is a tool that contains a large number of functions. This is a kind of set of everyday or narrow-profile tools that are enclosed in one convenient case.

The main purpose of the toolkit is to help troubleshoot unforeseen technical problems. Of course, the multitool cannot completely replace the original tools, but it becomes a universal “magic wand” when solving many everyday tasks.

The principle of operation of the multitool

The prefix "multi" in the name of the device means that this is a universal thing that can cope with a large number of tasks.

It is important to know that a multi-tool and an ordinary folding knife with several tools are far from the same thing.

There are many such tools, the internal set of which is made to perform a number of specific tasks. Classical variants of devices have been widely used.

A well-chosen model is suitable for:

• fishing;
• hunting;
• tourism;
• solving a number of everyday problems and kitchen tasks;
• survival in an unconventional environment.

Once in the wild or in the midst of a natural disaster, it is very difficult to escape if you do not have a set of tools necessary for survival at hand.

Considering that a properly selected set can replace a whole tool set, a multitool will be a wonderful useful gift for a man. Be it a colleague or a loved one.

To use any element of the kit, just pull it out of the landing cell.

Pliers are the basis of the kit, they are pushed forward or removed by turning the handles.

The design of a universal set involves fixing each non-basic element or only some of them, it all depends on the development of a particular model.

Characteristics and properties of the multitool

The multitool consists of two hollow handles in which tools are inserted inside or outside.

It has a compact size and can be easily placed in the pocket of any clothing.

Due to its versatility and small size, the set is popular among fans of active pastime.

Multitool almost completely replaces a number of highly specialized tools. This ability is, without a doubt, a virtue that smooths over the few shortcomings of the kit.

Tool material

Multitools are made from various steel alloys, including stainless ones, and each of them can become the basis for a particular element.

Often in the production of such tools, high-strength steel S30V and VG 10 are used.

The basis of the reliability of a compact set is the quality of the connections and the material of the handles, which are often equipped with an anti-slip finish. All elements of the set are connected with strong rivets or screws.

Multitool dimensions

The sizes and shapes of each kit vary depending on the list of tasks for which each model is designed.

For example, the classic versions, which include about 10 tools, have a weight of up to 350 g, and their length reaches 160 mm.

Miniature models do not exceed the weight of more than 50-100 g, and their unfolded length is up to 80 mm.

Multi Tool Components

When choosing a multitool, the first criterion that people pay attention to is the contents of the model, what kind of tools are included in the kit.

The following options are the most popular:

• with pliers of various designs, pliers and side cutters;
• with one or more single-handed and two-handed knives;
• with a corkscrew;
• with opener;
• with a set of screwdrivers;
• with a saw that does not have a tooth divorce;
• with a small set of cutlery;
• with a ruler;
• with a flashlight;
• with bits for fastener cuts.

All product variants are equipped with a folding bit holder, but some types contain an adapter that fits over the jaws of the pliers.

Some components are not so common and are only found in certain models:

• wrench;
• hatchet;
• cullet;
• flint;
• whistle;
• a hammer;
• glass cutter

Such tools are contained in models designed for tourism and survival.

It is impossible to enumerate a complete list of certain elements included in multitool models in one article.

Types of multitools

 

The shape of multi-tools, their size and convenient functionality are dictated primarily by the needs and requests of users.

All variants of models of sets are divided into types:

• classic: the main tool is pliers;
• folding knife: the main element of the set is a knife, and the handles hide the rest of the components;
• swiss card: the size of a bank card, miniature parts of the kit
• inserted into puzzles;
• wrist bracelet: the links have a hole for a nut or screw of a certain size;
• trinket;
• belt buckle: gives a stylish look.

The purpose of the multitool also has various options: tourist, fishing, army, bicycle, yacht, auto rescue, multifunctional shovel, etc. There are even such unusual types as electric and flint lighters.

How to choose the right model

The first and important criterion when choosing a multitool can be considered the definition of the purpose and purpose for using the kit. It depends on this which set of elements should be in the model. Usually at this stage, mistakes are made when choosing, especially when the product is purchased as a present.

Choosing the right body size is also important, because the model should organically fit into the ways of wearing. It's one thing if you plan to keep it in your car or backpack. And completely different if the multitool needs to be constantly carried with you. In this case, the dimensions of the kit play a significant role in the selection.

Traveling by plane also imposes certain restrictions: it is forbidden to carry knives with you.

Before buying the first available model at a budget price, you need to carefully study the market. Inexpensive multitools from China can be ordered online from AliExpress.

It is worth paying attention to those who produce multi-tools. The best multitool manufacturers that have been doing this for a long time are Leatherman, Victorinox, Gerber, Arhont, Swiss Tech and others.

Our rating of high-quality multi-tools will help you navigate the assortment and buy the necessary kit.

The best multi-tools for various tasks

Leatherman Rebar

Average price: 7000 rubles.

A full-size multitool with a fairly low price for a Leatherman. The democratic price tag indicates a somewhat simplified design: although the replaceable blades of the nippers are preserved here, the hinges of the main tool packages are non-separable. There is no way to change anything. But the list of elements of the set is what you need - there are two knives, a file, a file, openers with screwdrivers.

Manufacturers also provided for stripping wires and crimping terminals. Despite the fact that the design is partially simplified, this versatile item retains its versatility and excellent quality well.

• made entirely of stainless steel;
• excellent set of tools;
• interchangeable cutting blades.

• non-separable packages.

Gerber Multi-Plier 600

Average price: 7700 rubles.

 

No less famous than the popular Leatherman, American manufacturer Gerber offers a full-size kit, which, however, requires close attention when buying.

The whole problem is that this series of Gerber products has attracted the attention of the Chinese. Therefore, now on many online trading platforms you can find relatively cheap fakes. But the quality will be much lower. For fakes, spring clips constantly fly off with a sharp extension of the sponges. The steel from which such multitools are made is completely unusable and falls apart in a short time.

The original made of stainless material has basic functionality - pliers, wire cutters, a Phillips screwdriver and three flat ones. Also included is an opener, file and knives. The quality of this model is high, the latches work perfectly.

• you can bring the pliers into working position with one easy movement;
• affordable price and incomparable quality;
• lifetime warranty, although somewhat limited.

• non-replaceable screwdrivers and nipper blades:
• many fakes.

Leatherman Skeleton

Average price: 6000 rubles.

Skeletool pocket multitools are not designed for permanent use, but for occasional use. The steel of the kit is much simpler than other models from this manufacturer. The functionality has been truncated.

Skeletool has the size of a regular folding knife, the elements of the set combine several purposes. For example, the carabiner of the model allows you not only to hang the product, but also can open bottles.

For screws and screws there is a bit holder, four bits are included in the kit.Next come the pliers, wire cutters and narrow nose pliers.

The weight of the product is only 142 grams. The model is perfect for lovers of compact things of minimal size.

• light weight and compactness;
• warranty terms.

• limited functionality;
• no built-in screwdrivers.

Victorinox SwissTool X Plus

Average price: 16,800 rubles.

 

One of the best manufacturers (according to buyers) of Swiss knives Victorinox also did not stand aside and released a high quality SwissTool X Plus multifunctional set. The kit is stuffed to the limit and performs 39 functions, but the negative factor is that some of the kit's tools have to be carried separately.

Such a device, of course, is made of stainless steel. Thanks to this, such a multi-tool is perfect for solving field tasks.

• great quality;
• resistance to corrosion;
• The factory warranty is for life.

• many parts are not included in the kit;
• non-replaceable cutting pliers;
• non-detachable design.

Leatherman Crunch

Average price: 9500 rubles.

The Leatherman Crunch tool set differs from other models in that it is based on self-clamping tongs (Goebbels). It can serve as a clamp when you need to fix something. Thus, during work, the hands get tired much less.

There are not many additional tools in this model: screwdrivers, one Phillips and two slotted ones, a file, a bottle opener, a serrated knife, a hexagonal bit socket, a wire stripper.

• original design;
• retainer.

• awkward use of bits;
• little functionality.

Leatherman Thread

Average price: 11,000 rubles.

 

Leatherman Tread is made in the form of functional links that can be purchased separately and thereby complement the kit.

The standard kit contains screwdrivers, hex bits, sockets for nuts. There is also a glass-breaking point and a bottle opener. The entire set is made of stainless steel.

• many functions and compactness;
• the ability to replace or add parts.

• rather high price.

Leatherman Signal

Average price: 12,000 rubles.

 

The versatile Leatherman Signal is primarily suitable for all kinds of hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts in the wild. The kit includes 19 tools: pliers, bit holder, opener, saw, whistle, flint, diamond file, etc. There is also a carabiner with a platform for driving a peg and splitting nuts. The entire model is made of durable stainless steel.

• excellent quality;
• wide range of functions.

• with frequent use, the fire starter is quickly erased, and buying a spare is a little problematic.

Baladeo Locker

Average price: 2,000 rubles.

The standard equipment of Baladeo Locker​ is complemented by an extended set for screwdrivers - in the socket you can count 11 different bits, up to the rarest ones. The remaining elements are the same as in others: pliers, knife, scissors, corkscrew, saw, can opener. The multitool is made of anticorrosive steel.

• ergonomic;
• optimal set of elements.

• unnecessarily heavy;
• according to buyers - too soft steel.

Xiaomi HuoHou Nexttool HUO040

Average price: 2,300 rubles.

Xiaomi HuoHou Nexttool HUO040 kit is small in size and made of metal alloy. Deserved success with users with reliability at a low cost. It is quite universal, it is used in different areas: outdoors and during repairs, it can be used to solve everyday problems. Holds 10 useful tools, fits comfortably in your hand. The handles are covered with anti-slip pads.

• there is a function of sawing wood;
• ease of storage;
• great factory fit.

• not detected.

For your convenience, we have created a table with the models included in the rating:

Name	Number of tools	Weight (gram)	Length (cm)	average price
Leatherman Rebar	17	190	10.16	7000
Gerber Multi-Plier 600	11	255	12.5	7700
Leatherman Crunch	15	196	14.4	9500
Swiss Tool X Plus	39	463	11.5	16800
Leatherman Skeleton	7	142	10	6000
Leatherman Thread	29	156	21	11000
Leatherman Signal	19	213	11.4	12000
Baladeo Locker	6	450	12	2000
Xiaomi HuoHou Nexttool HUO040	10	280	21.5	2300

Instrument Care

Many models of these kits come with a long or lifetime warranty. But this does not mean at all that after purchase your multitool will not need regular care. If you follow all the rules properly, then your purchase will serve faithfully for many years.

The first and most important thing to keep in mind is keeping the tools clean. If you do not follow this rule, then you may soon encounter such troubles as an abrasive, which gradually wears out parts of the tools. With regular sharpening, metal particles become magnetized on the parts, which often becomes a problem. The solution to this is quite simple: for cleaning after each sharpening, you must use a magnet with reverse polarity.

Another important factor in the care of the product is lubrication.This process should be performed at the same frequency with which the tools are used. Signs that say it's time to lubricate the tool:

• it takes effort to open;
• uncharacteristic sounds such as crackling or crunching when opening;
• weak fixation.

All these signs indicate that an abrasive has accumulated that prevents the tools from working. Put a couple of drops of lubricant on the stuck part and open and close it several times. As a rule, one such procedure returns the multitool to its normal functioning.