The Best Small Multi-Tools

Multi-tools are small pocket-knife style housings with a variety of blades and tools. Among the more recognizable and early multi-tools are Swiss Army knives. It is hard to quantify the "best" small multi-tools, but there are several multi-tools that stand out above the rest. It should go without saying that the best multi-tool is the multi-tool that serves your purpose.

  1. Leatherman Mini-Tool

    • The Leatherman Mini-Tool is a small multi-tool designed to fit onto a key ring. Leatherman tools and knives were among the first of the modern-age multi-tools and routinely receive high marks from users.

      The Mini has 10 different tools and blades housed in a stainless-steel body that comes with a 25-year warranty. The Mini is handy for climbing and backpacking trips due to the stainless and near rust-free housing and light weight. It has a small loop to attach to key rings or zippers on backpacks.

    Gerber Crucial Tool

    • The Gerber Crucial Tool is a highly regarded multi-tool designed to be small, lightweight and able to withstand harsh conditions. The Crucial Tool is larger than the Leatherman Mini yet is still considered a small tool. The Crucial Tool has five different tools and blades and weighs five ounces. Like the Mini, it is constructed of stainless steel.

    Buck X-Tract Essential

    • Buck knives are known in the outdoor world for their reliable blades for hunting and fishing. Buck's X-Tract multi-tool is a small-size tool designed to be a minimalist's favorite. The X-Tract is much more like a standard pocket knife, yet has five different tools housed in the small casing. The X-Tract has a plastic handle, unlike the Mini or Crucial Tool.

      Buck makes the knife to be used like a pocket knife. It is small enough to fit into a deep cargo pants pocket or in a small belt holster.

    Swiss Army Knives

    • It is truly hard to beat the classics. Such cliches as "they don't make them like this anymore" certainly apply to the Victorinox Swiss Army knives. Almost all of the Swiss Army knives are made with a variety of tools, blades and utensils. They are made to go into pockets, holsters or backpack pockets.

      Tools for many different purposes are made and marketed by the company. Examples include versions for climbers, boaters, campers and handymen.