The Gear: The Best Multitools Have It All
Modern multitools are rugged, sophisticated and oh-so useful.
Image Caption: Photo Credit: Leatherman
Did you know that the multitool dates back as far as 200 CE? Roman soldiers and pilgrims carried rudimentary versions that included a fork, knife and other utensils to eat while on the road. Even ancient travelers valued utility, convenience and a MacGyver-esque knack for getting things done. The best multitools are a wonder of design and engineering, often condensing an entire toolbox to fit in a pocket. They often pack in a dozen tools or more, including multiple knife blades, bottle and can openers, screwdrivers and pliers. And because they are usually made out of stainless steel, they manage to be very durable, without getting overly bulky or heavy.
Whether you’re looking for a multitool for everyday carry or want one to keep around your house or in your RV, the options can be overwhelming. But the models listed below are some of the best currently available, delivering outstanding utility at affordable prices.
Photo Credit: Leatherman
Leatherman Signal
The Leatherman Signal is the perfect example of a modern multitool. At 4.5 inches in length and weighing just 7.5 ounces, it fits neatly in a pocket while providing plenty of functionality. The Signal comes with 19 tools, including a knife, a pliers, a wire cutter and both a can and bottle opener. Available in nine different colors, it ships with a nylon sheath, a safety whistle, a blade sharpener and a ferrite rod for starting a fire. $140 leatherman.com
Photo Credit: Gerber
Gerber Center Drive
While the Gerber Center Drive features 14 individual tools—including pliers, multiple knife blades, and an awl—its primary purpose is to serve as a compact and versatile screwdriver. The multitool ships with a set of 12 interchangeable bits that, when locked into place, provide the grip, torque and rotation of a traditional screwdriver. For added convenience, the Center Drive opens with the fl ick of a thumb, allowing for one-handed use in tight quarters. $145 gerbergear.com
Photo Credit: Victorinox
Victorinox Huntsman
Thanks to the famed Swiss Army Knife, Victorinox is practically synonymous with multitools. That legacy continues with the Huntsman, a modern version of the original model that started it all. Just 3.6 inches in length and weighing 3.4 ounces, this model offers 15 different functions, including two knife blades, two screwdrivers, a corkscrew, scissors, tweezers and a toothpick. Elegant and well crafted, the Huntsman looks and feels great, a testament to its years of ref nement. $52 victorinox.com
Photo Credit: Leatherman
Leatherman Wave Plus
A no-frills alternative to the Leatherman Signal, the Wave Plus manages to pack a lot of functionality into an even smaller form factor. Available in matte black and stainless-steel variants, this 18-tool model includes three unique blades, a scissors, a diamond-coated file and not one but two pliers (traditional and needlenose). An excellent price makes this a very attractive option for those who place a high value on reliability and durability. $120 leatherman.com
This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.
Kraig Becker is a writer in the RV, outdoors, and adventure travel space. Over the course of his career he has contributed to such outlets as Popular Mechanics, Outside Online, Business Insider, TripSavvy, Digital Trends, GearJunkie, The Adventure Blog, and countless others. An avid runner and cyclist, he enjoys camping, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and just about any other outdoor activity. His travels have taken him to seven continents and on many amazing adventures.
