With the pliers, we gripped, squeezed, twisted, and turned various bits of hardware. In our test, we cut rope, twine, lamp wire, 14-gauge indoor branch circuit wire, maple saplings and branches, paper, and plastic-we also stripped the wire we cut and crimped electrical connectors. In our scoring, we counted these as one, since the functions are often performed by one regular, full-size tool. Note that, in their descriptions, manufacturers often count different capabilities of a specific tool individually to arrive at a higher number of “tools.” For example, pliers may be counted three or four times if they can function as needle-nose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutters, and/or wire strippers. How well they did earned them a score on a scale of one to five, and then we calculated the average of all scores to determine how that model stacks up against a mythical ideal multitool.

How We Selectedĭuring testing, we performed tasks to utilize every tool or every function of each tool on each model. A 15 tool option is far less valuable than an eight tool option where you use four to five of those tool often. Then, find a multitool that has all of those as a part of its functionality. So, before you make any final decisions, make a list of the three or four tools you use most often. While the number of tools any device has plays a major role in it value, what makes or breaks a multitool for any individual user is what tools they use most frequently. The majority of the multitools on our list are made of stainless steel, which, alongside being incredible durable, hold enough weight to be felt but are still relatively lightweight and should be comfortable sitting in your pocket or clipped to a work belt. At the same time, this must be balanced with allowing enough space for each tool to be effective in operation.

With a major reason for a multitool being to replace larger, bulkier tools, maintaining a smaller overall size is key. The size and weight of a multitool is key for both functionality and portability. For instance, a multitool with a screwdriver attachment is great, but if that multitool grip doesn’t give you the leverage to twist off stuck on screws or only comes with one screwdriver bit attachment, it’s far less effective in practice. The function of these tools depends on how they are place on the multitool, and if they prove effective in whatever the intended purpose of the tool is. While a multitool can have anywhere from 5 to over 20 different tool functions on it, it’s key to see both how actually functional those tools are, and of course, how often you’ll use them. While the sheer volume of tools and functionalities on your multitool isn’t a perfect metric for how good it is, it does give you a sense of it’s versatility. Best Mid-Size Multitool: SOG PowerLitre.Best Pocket Knife Multitool: Gerber Armbar Drive.Best Overall: Victorinox SwissTool Spirit X.Take a look below at some things to consider when buying your next one, then scroll down to see the results of our test. We called in a batch to see how well they work. Today there are dozens, from a slew of manufacturers, some with more than 20 tools/functions. These implements have come a long way from the Swiss Army knife you dreamed of as a child. If you often encounter the unexpected, like to be prepared for any situation, or fancy yourself a real-life MacGyver-the type of person that waltzes in to save the day, with your tool kit in miniature at the ready-then chances are you carry a multitool.

Pocket multi tool