Next EDC utility item we’ll discuss is the multi-tool. Granted, adding such an item to your EDC load may primarily cater to those who perform manual work or for outdoor activities. We’ll be able to find some small enough to carry in your pocket, for whenever you need to tighten a loose screw or open a bottle. Others you might want to consider carrying separately (i.e., in a backpack) or keeping close at hand (i.e., in your vehicle), should the need arise.
I’d be remiss not to point out that a multi-tool is not intended to replace any single, purpose-built tools; but rather to allow to make a quick fix when you don’t have access to such tools. If you follow our blog, you might remember that certain EDC wallets and keychains may include some sort of tool add-ons. We’ll revisit those, while also including additional types and other aspects. Having said that, let’s dive into the key points to ponder when you want to find the best multi-tool for your needs.
Table of contents
Multi-tool types
Pocket knife
First most common type to come into mind would be the multi-tooled pocket knife, which you may know as a Swiss Army knife. This was initially introduced in 1891 by a company (which later became Victorinox) that won the contract to produce army-issued folding knives to Swiss soldiers. Back then it only included a knife blade, reamer, screwdriver, and can opener. Nowadays, you’ll find these plus many other features in products of this style.
This type packages several features in a compact form factor, yet they might still be a bit bulky depending on the size. A pretty common souvenir or gift idea for men, as it’s usually more elegant and gentlemanly compared to other styles. Wenger (now a part of Victorinox, by the way) and a few other brands like Gerber, Leatherman, OKNIFE, and FOX Knives sell this type of multi-tool.
Plier
Second most common type we need to look at is the plier or scissors form factor, popularised by brands like Leatherman and Gerber. The latter one first introduced its Pocket Survival Tool in the United States in 1983, incorporating a butterfly knife-style mechanism with a larger and more robust form factor. The idea for this product was inspired by wanting to combine a boy scout knife with pliers plus an awl, file, bottle/can opener, and a few screwdrivers.
Usually you’ll find between 10 to 25 tools packed in these products, so needless to say they’ll be bulkier and heavier than all other types. If you value function over comfort, this is definitely the right one for you. Though I’d suggest using a belt pouch or utility belt (should your profession call for it) to carry them, or simply keep it handy in your car or backpack. Other brands that offer this type include SOG, Flissa, Bibury, and Roxon.
Minimalist
Next, we have the minimalist type that has been introduced by some EDC brands in recent years. Basically, these consist of a single piece CNC-machined from a metal material. They normally can contain at least two different tools built-in into the object’s body, including some form of cutting implement since a knife blade can’t be properly incorporated.
Their major advantage, besides ruggedness and durability, would be ease of access since there’s no need to open or remove any tool before it can be used. Brands like Dango Products, Nite Ize, and Pharaoh EDC produce this type.
Credit card
Additionally, a few producers may offer multi-tools that come in the exact shape and size of a credit card. Within these, we can have either individual, removable tools, or they can already be included in a card machined from a single material (just as our minimalist type above). Obviously, as the name implies, this type can be easily carried in your wallet or separately in your pocket.
Their slim design may not provide ample room for many tools compared to other types, but they certainly compensate this with space-saving. Only a couple brands such as Wenger, Tool Logic, and Victorinox manufacture this type.
Accessory
Last but not least, a few manufacturers may offer accessories sold separately, which can be added to any type of keychain, or alternatively to a hook or carabiner fastened to your backpack. Examples of these include USB drives, multi-tools, nail files, pry bars, and bottle openers, just to mention a few. Brands like Orbitkey, Big Idea Design, KeyBar, and Gear Infusion offer products in this style.
Multi-tool materials
Metal
Practically all multi-tools you can find in the market will be made entirely, or at least partially (e.g., removable/openable tools), from one or more metal materials. Common examples include aluminum, titanium, copper, brass, steel, and even zirconium. A metal multi-tool will provide you with long-term durability and extra ruggedness. Major downside, however, would be the extra weight it’ll add to your pocket or backpack. While this is true for most metals, specifically brass and copper, it won’t be the case with lighter metals like titanium and aluminum.
Plastic
Certain brands might include ABS and cellidor plastics or even carbon fiber as inlay materials. These can be most commonly found in the body of pocket knife, plier, or credit card multi-tools. These lighter materials can be more resistant to smudges and abrasion, which makes them a great alternative to metals. Appeal-wise, nonetheless, they might look cheaper (and actually be) when compared to more elegant and refined-looking metal ones.
Multi-tool features
After reviewing the various multi-tool types and the materials used in their manufacture, you may be wondering, what about the included tools themselves? Above all, this is the main reason you might want to consider adding one of these to your EDC kit, right? In the end, your choice will most likely depend on the tools you’ll use more frequently or need in specific situations, rather than its type or material.
I’ve been racking my brain trying to come up with the best way to introduce or group the different components you can find in such product. A tall order since we can have anything from 2 to 25 items contained in a single product, depending on the manufacturer. Hence, I think it would be best to simply enumerate the individual tools or accessories that can be found in an infinite number of combinations:
- Allen keys
- Ballpoint pen
- Bottle opener
- Box cutter
- Can opener
- Cork screw
- Crimping pliers
- File
- Folding scissors
- Glass breaker
- Hammer
- Hook
- Knife blade
- LED light
- Magnifying glass
- Needle-nosed pliers
- Pry tool
- Reamer
- Ruler
- Saw
- Scoring tip
- Screwdriver bits
- Stitching awl
- Straight pin
- Tape measure
- Toothpick
- Tweezers
- Wire cutter
- Wire stripper
- Wrench
Useful tips
Here are some tips to aid you in your search for the best multi-tool for you. Or, if you’ve already selected one, to help you make the most out of it as you add it to you EDC collection.
Right tools for the job
As we just addressed, there’s a myriad of tool combinations to choose from, which vary in range and versatility. However, I think it’s best to stick to those essential features most people would normally need for most daily tasks. Main tools I’d make sure to have in a multi-tool of choice would be a knife blade, pliers, scissors, and screwdrivers. Bottom line, you’ll have to consider your specific needs and match the components required for your activities, work, or lifestyle.
Durability, durability, durability
When looking for the best option for you, its quality and built are of paramount importance too. As we explained before, one made entirely from metals (or a combination of these) is more likely to sustain daily use and the wear and tear caused by it. It has to be durable enough to perform a variety of tasks in a constant repetition over time without breaking. Multi-tools made from stainless steel and titanium can surely stand up to the challenge.
Best design for you
Being an addition to your EDC kit, it needs to be light and compact enough for easy carry. Certain multi-tools, particularly the plier type, can get considerably bulky the more tools they contain. Once this happens, ergonomics and usability will come into play – you don’t want to end up with a multi-tool that goes beyond your hand’s grasp. Additionally, some multi-tools make access to each individual tool more user-friendly compared to other designs, so bear this in mind as well.
Do your research
If there’s a particular brand that piques your interest, go to their website. Browse their product offering and see more detailed information about product characteristics. If you’d like to compare multi-tools from multiple brands, then visit an online retailer like Amazon or Mukama. Product selection will be more varied, and you’ll easily find the combination of materials, types, and features you’re going after for your preferred multi-tool.
Buy wisely
Some brands offer a discount for your first purchase, provided you subscribe to their newsletter. Many will also have discounts on occasion to get rid of their older inventory. Both manufacturers and online retailers will advertise special sales and promotions on holidays like Father’s Day, Black Friday, and Christmas.
Key takeaways
Here are the key points you should be aware of in order to find the best multi-tool for you:
- Most common multi-tool types are pocket knife, plier, minimalist, credit card, and accessory.
- Multi-tools are made from one or more metals (e.g., steel, titanium, aluminum), with plastic (e.g., cellidor, carbon fiber) inlays in some cases.
- There are dozens of multi-tool features, but most typical ones are knife, scissors, pliers, screwdrivers, and bottle/can openers.
- Useful tips to make the most of a multi-tool are to choose a durable material, with the best design and proper tools for your activities and lifestyle.
- When buying a multi-tool is important to research properly, and know when and where to buy.
I trust you’ll find this information helpful during your quest for the right multi-tool. Stay tuned for future posts (check out our recent posts here). Should you have any questions, please leave a comment below or reach out to us. Until next time!