There are a ton of different multi-tools on the market, and types like Leatherman and Victorinox have fashions upon fashions that make it complicated to determine precisely what to get. Listed here are some others I like.
Leatherman Skeletool CX for $90: This one is barely smaller than the Wave Plus, but it surely’s nonetheless a standard-sized multi-tool. If you happen to do not want all of the bells and whistles our high decide provides, you’ll be able to most likely make do with a much less cumbersome gizmo that also has the essential, most-used instruments, akin to a knife, bottle opener, can opener, bit drivers, and pliers.
Victorinox Swiss Device for $153: Sure, I did a double-take after I first noticed the value tag too. At 10 ounces, it is on the heavier aspect as nicely. Nevertheless it’s superbly made, and I dig the boxy, straight-edged handles. Typically it is simply good to have a device that does not attempt to look trendy. It is lovely.
Leatherman Cost TTi for $190: This can be a weak advice. It is filled with 19 helpful instruments and comes with that stellar Leatherman construct high quality and guarantee. I have been utilizing one fortunately for years. That worth, although. Regardless that it is manufactured from titanium, it is no lighter than the Wave Plus that prices far much less and comes with 18 mini-tools, a lot of them the identical because the Cost TTi’s. Purchase the Wave Plus, until you actually just like the look of the darkish titanium.
Leatherman Free P4 for $150: I used to be on the fence about this one. Like most of Leatherman’s lineup, the Free P4 is a high quality, well-built device, however is it value a $40 improve over our high decide, Leatherman’s personal $110 Wave Plus? The massive differentiators are that the Free P4, with its 21 instruments, makes use of magnets to open and lock the device, and a brand new mechanism to unlock and shut the mini-tools that does not depend on placing your finger in the best way of the blade. The magnets do not take any much less drive to initially open the device than different Leathermans, however when you get it began, the opening mechanism is very clean and easy.
Smallrig Common Multi-Device for Videographers for $30: If you end up lugging round numerous videography gear, like our product reviewer Eric Ravenscraft, you may want a multi-tool made for adjusting and sustaining cameras with out knives and pliers. The Smallrig consists of 9 instruments, together with hex keys in a number of sizes frequent to cameras, a Phillips-head screwdriver, and a pair of flat-head screwdrivers. Eric likes the broader flat head for screwing down and eradicating tripod heads, which he says sometimes get scraped and chewed up by smaller screwdrivers.
Leatherman Micra for $57: As a substitute of pliers, the Micra opens up right into a pair of scissors. It feels prefer it’s manufactured from cheaper supplies and has thinner device blades than the Victorinox Mini Champ, which is of an identical measurement, objective, and worth. The spring-loaded mechanism is hard to open and shut with out poking your self. Nevertheless it has character, and I just like the little factor. It is a good various to the Mini Champ, particularly in order for you a tiny multi-tool that revolves round scissors.
Leatherman Wingman for $70: The Wingman simply feels nice to make use of. No wildly textured surfaces, and no plastic wherever. The graceful scales really feel old-school, in a very good, “keep in mind again when” means, much like the Victorinox Swiss Device. It has 14 instruments in its handles, all of which slide open and shut as easily as in the event that they had been buttered. The entire package deal folds right down to solely 4 inches lengthy and weighs 7 ounces. At this worth, it is an ideal cut price.
SOG Key Knife for $12: The perfect knife is the one you have obtained helpful. That Leatherman Wave Plus will not do you any good if it is at residence and you are not. Micro-tools such because the Mini Champ and Micra are simple to stuff right into a pocket, however you continue to have to recollect them. The Key Knife goes proper in your key ring, so it is all the time with you. The blade flips out and measures 1.5 inches, which is sufficient for many minor reducing duties. It is a one-trick pony, although, and solely has a blade. You are not getting a premium product, however the stainless-steel blade in all fairness sharp sufficient.
Leatherman Raptor Response for $80: Slightly than taking the type of pliers, these medical shears characteristic a blunt tip in order that medics do not by chance stab a affected person whereas making an attempt to chop via clothes. The Raptor Response could be very area of interest. If it’s important to ask, then no, you do not want it. However for an EMT or a wilderness medic on distant backcountry journeys, it is an ingenious packaging answer that features an oxygen tank wrench and ring cutter (for reducing via constricting jewellery).
