Multitool
Anatomy of a Common Multitool
What is a Multitool?
Who would use a Multitool?
Multitools are used by a wide range of people due to their versatility and convenience, including:
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Campers, hikers, and backpackers use multitools for tasks like setting up camp, making small repairs, or preparing food.
- DIY Hobbyists: For various home projects and repairs where having multiple tools in one compact device is handy.
- Cyclists and Motorcyclists: For on-the-go adjustments and repairs to their bikes or gear.
- Fishermen: To cut lines, remove hooks, and perform other tasks while fishing.
- Emergency Responders: Including firefighters, EMTs, and police officers, who may need quick access to a variety of tools in emergency situations.
- Military Personnel: For a range of field tasks, from equipment repair to survival situations.
- Gardeners: For pruning, cutting, and other small gardening tasks.
- Craftsmen and Technicians: Who need a variety of tools for their work but may not always have their full toolkit available.
- Office Workers and Everyday Carry (EDC) Enthusiasts: Who appreciate having basic tools like scissors, screwdrivers, and bottle openers readily available.
- Homeowners: For quick fixes and minor repairs around the house without needing to retrieve a full set of tools.
Multitools are appreciated for their ability to provide multiple functionalities in one compact, easily portable tool, making them a practical choice for both everyday tasks and specialized activities.
Safety Precautions with Multitools!
When using multitools, follow these safety precautions to prevent accidents and injuries:
- Read the Instructions: Familiarize yourself with the functions and proper operation of each tool in the multitool.
- Use the Right Tool for the Job: Avoid using the multitool for tasks it’s not designed for, as this can lead to damage or injury.
- Handle with Care: Be cautious when opening and closing tools, especially sharp ones like knives and scissors, to avoid cuts.
- Keep It Clean and Maintained: Regularly clean and lubricate your multitool to keep it functioning smoothly and safely.
- Use Securely: Ensure that the tool you’re using is fully deployed and locked into place, if applicable, before applying force.
- Wear Protective Gear: Depending on the task, consider wearing gloves and safety glasses for additional protection.
- Be Mindful of Surroundings: Use the multitool in a stable position and be aware of people nearby to avoid accidental injury.
- Store Safely: When not in use, keep the multitool closed and stored in a safe place, out of reach of children.
- Do Not Overextend: Avoid applying excessive force that can cause the tool to slip or break.
- Inspect Regularly: Check for loose, damaged, or worn parts that may need repair or replacement to maintain safety.
ToolFinder Recommends
Allow me to preface these recommendations with the fact that Multitools are a very personalized choice. I’ve chosen these here to suit what is likely Most users, but not all. Please keep that in mind as you review these!
Gerber Gear Suspension-NXT 15-in-1 Multi-Tool Pocket Knife Set - EDC Gear and Equipment Multi-Tool with Pocket Clip - Stainless Steel
When you’re looking for an all-around type multitool that you could keep in an inside the home place for that moment’s notice need: Gerber Gear Suspension-NXT 15-in-1 Multi-Tool Pocket Knife Set – EDC Gear and Equipment Multi-Tool with Pocket Clip – Stainless Steel
DEWALT DWHT71843 MT16 Multi Tool
If you’re looking for a low-cost Multi-tool with pliers that fits the bill for every day carry, check out this one: DEWALT DWHT71843 MT16 Multi Tool
Gerber Gear Dime 12-in-1 Mini Multi-tool - Needle Nose Pliers, Pocket Knife, Keychain, Bottle Opener - EDC Gear and Equipment - Black
Need a smaller unit to carry around daily that has a fair amount of tools? This one could be a good fit for that purpose – Gerber Gear Dime 12-in-1 Mini Multi-tool – Needle Nose Pliers, Pocket Knife, Keychain, Bottle Opener – EDC Gear and Equipment – Black
LEATHERMAN, Charge Plus, 19-in-1 Full-Size, Versatile Multi-tool for Home, Outdoors, Everyday Carry (EDC), Black
Have a need for a very robust multitool? Perhaps you go on sites to perform work and need to have some additional tools with you in the just-in-case scenarios! Check out this Leatherman: LEATHERMAN, Charge Plus, 19-in-1 Full-Size, Versatile Multi-tool for Home, Outdoors, Everyday Carry (EDC), Black
KeySmart AllTul Vulture - 10-in-1 keychain multitool with Bottle Opener, Wrench, Carabiner, Philips Head, Wire Cutter, Flat Head, Spoke, Cutter, Ruler and Keyring Hole, Tool for Camping, Fishing Etc.
If you’re traveling via plane, you can’t have any knives or scissors, so in those scenarios – if you prefer to carry something such as a multitool – make sure it fits that profile.
Here’s an option that is considered TSA safe: KeySmart AllTul Vulture – 10-in-1 keychain multitool with Bottle Opener, Wrench, Carabiner, Philips Head, Wire Cutter, Flat Head, Spoke, Cutter, Ruler and Keyring Hole, Tool for Camping, Fishing Etc.
This particular series has several different tools, all found on that one link, that can be used for different things. If you travel with others, it might even be useful to get a couple different things that cover different scenarios and each carry one!