Rating of the best multitools for all occasions

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

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

How the multitool works

The prefix "multi" in the name of the device means that it is a universal thing that can cope with a wide range of tasks.

It is important to know that a multi-tool and an ordinary folding knife with several tools are not the same thing.

There are many similar tools, the internal set of which is made to perform a number of specific tasks. Classic versions of devices are widely used.

A well-chosen model is suitable for:

• fishing;
• hunting;
• tourism;
• solving a number of household problems and kitchen tasks;
• survival in a non-standard environment.

Once in the wilderness 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. Whether it's a colleague or a loved one.

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

The pliers are the basis of the kit, they are pushed forward or removed by unrolling the handles.

The design of the universal set assumes the fixation of 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 easily fit into the pocket of any clothing.

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

The multitool almost completely replaces a number of highly specialized tools. This ability is, without a doubt, an advantage, smoothing out a 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 one or another element.

High-strength steel S30V and VG 10 are often used in the production of such tools.

The basis of the compact set's reliability is the quality of the joints and the material of the handles, which are often equipped with a non-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 instruments, weigh up to 350 g, and their length reaches 160 mm.

Miniature models do not exceed a 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 to pay attention to is the contents of the model, what kind of tools is included in the kit.

The most popular are the following options:

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

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 contained only in certain models:

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

Such tools are found in tourism and survival models.

It is impossible to list a complete list of certain elements included in the multitools model in one article.

Types of multitool

 

The form of multitools, their sizes and convenient functionality are dictated primarily by the needs and requests of users.

All variants of the kit models are divided into types:

• classic: the main tool is pliers;
• folding knife: the main element of the set is the knife, and the handles hide the rest of the components;
• Swiss card: bank card sized, miniature kit parts
• inserted into puzzles;
• wrist bracelet: 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, yachting, self-rescuer, multifunctional shovel, etc. There are even unusual types such as electric and silicon 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 of using the kit. It depends on this what 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 size for the case is also important, because the model should organically fit into the way of wearing. It's one thing if you plan on keeping it in your car or in your backpack. And it is 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 there.

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

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

Our rating of high-quality multitools will help you navigate the range and buy the necessary kit.

The best multitools for various tasks

Leatherman Rebar

Average price: 7000 rubles.

A full-sized multitool with a price low enough for Leatherman. The democratic price tag points to a somewhat simplified design: even though replaceable cutting pliers' blades 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 have also provided wire stripping and terminal crimping. Despite the fact that the design is partially simplified, this versatile thing retains its versatility and excellent quality well.

• made entirely of stainless steel;
• excellent set of tools;
• replaceable cutting pliers 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 problem is that this series of Gerber products has caught the attention of the Chinese people. Therefore, now on many online trading platforms, you can find relatively cheap fakes. But the quality will be significantly lower. For fakes, spring brackets constantly fly off with a sharp extension of the jaws. 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, nippers, a Phillips screwdriver and three flat ones. Also included is an opener, file and knives. The quality of this model is high, the clips work perfectly.

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

• non-replaceable screwdrivers and cutter blades:
• a lot of fakes.

Leatherman Skeletool

Average price: 6000 rubles.

Skeletool Pocket Multi-Tools are not intended for permanent use, but for occasional use. The steel of the kit is much simpler than that of other models from this manufacturer. The functionality has been cut down by an order of magnitude.

Skeletool is the size of a conventional folding knife, and the elements of the set combine several purposes. For example, the model's carabiner allows not only to hang the product, but also can open bottles.

There is a bit holder for screws and screws, the set includes four bits. Next are the pliers, wire cutters and narrow nose pliers.

The product weighs only 142 grams. The model is perfect for those who like compact things with minimal sizes.

• light weight and compactness;
• warranty conditions.

• limited functionality;
• lack of 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 multifunctional set SwissTool X Plus. The kit is packed with elements 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 is made, of course, of stainless steel. Thanks to this, such a multi-tool is perfect for solving field tasks.

• great quality;
• corrosion resistance;
• the factory warranty is lifetime.

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

Leatherman crunch

Average price: 9500 rubles.

The Leatherman Crunch tool set differs from other models in that it is based on self-clamping pliers (goebbels). It can serve as a clamp when something needs to be fixed. Thus, hands get tired much less during work.

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

• original design;
• retainer.

• inconvenient use of bits;
• little functionality.

Leatherman tread

Average price: 11,000 rubles.

 

Leatherman Tread is made in the form of functional links, which can be purchased separately and thus complement the set.

The standard kit contains screwdrivers, hexagonal bits, union nut sockets. There is also a glass breaker and a bottle opener. The whole set is made of stainless steel.

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

• quite high price.

Leatherman signal

Average price: 12,000 rubles.

 

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

• excellent quality;
• wide range of functions.

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

Baladeo locker

Average price: 2,000 rubles.

The standard Baladeo Locker is complemented by an extended screwdriver set - there are 11 different bits in the socket, up to the rarest ones. The rest of the elements are the same as in the others: pliers, knife, scissors, corkscrew, saw, can opener. Made of multi-tool from anti-corrosion steel.

• ergonomic;
• optimal set of elements.

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

Xiaomi HuoHou Nextool HUO040

Average price: 2 300 rubles.

Xiaomi HuoHou Nextool HUO040 kit is small in size, made of metal alloy. Has earned success with users for reliability at a low cost. It is quite versatile, it is used in different areas: outdoors and during repairs, with its help you can solve everyday problems. Contains 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;
• excellent factory sharpening.

• not found.

For your convenience, we have created a table with 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
SwissTool X Plus	39	463	11.5	16800
Leatherman Skeletool	7	142	10	6000
Leatherman tread	29	156	21	11000
Leatherman signal	19	213	11.4	12000
Baladeo locker	6	450	12	2000
Xiaomi HuoHou Nextool 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 that your multi-tool will not need regular maintenance after purchase. If you follow all the rules properly, then your purchase will serve for many years faithfully.

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

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

• you have to make an effort to open;
• uncharacteristic sounds such as crackling or crunching when opening;
• weakened fixation.

All these signs indicate that abrasive has accumulated, interfering with the operation of the tools. Apply a couple of drops of grease to the thrust piece and open and close it several times.Typically, one such procedure returns the multitool to its normal functioning.