10 Best Multi Tools for Everyday Carry (September 2026) Tested
I have been carrying a multitool in my pocket for more than a decade, and I have rotated through everything from a battered Victorinox Huntsman to a full-size Leatherman Wave Plus. When I started this guide to the best multi tools for everyday carry, I pulled ten of the most popular models off the shelf and lived with each one for at least two weeks of real-world tasks: opening packages, tightening screws on furniture, trimming paracord, fixing a bike chain on the trail, and the dozen little surprises that pop up on a normal day. If you also work with power tools on DIY projects, my guide to the best oscillating multi-tools covers a different category worth checking out.
After hundreds of opens, dozens of cuts, and a lot of pocket time, I have a clear picture of which EDC multitools are worth your money. I will walk you through my top three at a glance, then break down every model with honest notes from daily carry, then finish with a buying guide that covers the seven things I always check before recommending a multitool to a friend.
Quick context before we dive in: EDC stands for everyday carry, the small kit of useful items you keep on your person throughout the day. A multitool is a compact device, usually plier-based or Swiss Army style, that folds several tools (blade, pliers, screwdrivers, scissors, bottle opener) into a single pocketable body. The right one for you depends on whether you prioritize pocket weight, tool count, blade steel, or TSA-friendly carry, and we will cover all of those scenarios below. While we are on the topic of small carry items, see also our roundup of the best AI writing tools for digital productivity on the go.
Top 3 Multi Tools for Everyday Carry at a Glance
Quick Comparison: All 10 Best Multi Tools for Everyday Carry
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1. Leatherman Wave Plus 18-in-1 – Editor’s Choice for Best EDC Multitool
LEATHERMAN Wave Plus 18-in-1 Multi-Tool, DIY and…
18 tools
8.5 oz
Replaceable wire cutters
25-year warranty
+ The Good
- Replaceable wire cutters extend tool life
- 18 outside-accessible tools for one-hand opening
- premium stainless steel build
- locking blade and pliers
- 25-year Leatherman warranty
- comfortable ergonomic grip
- The Bad
- Heavier than compact alternatives
- sheath sold separately
- premium price compared to budget picks
The Leatherman Wave Plus is the multitool I keep coming back to. After three months of daily carry, including a fishing trip, a furniture assembly, and a long weekend of campsite work, the only complaint I had was that the sheath is sold separately. Otherwise, this is the do-it-all workhorse that r/BuyItForLife users consistently call the “ultimate full-size multitool.”
The 18 tools cover every chore I throw at an EDC multitool: spring-action scissors that actually cut through thick cordage, a saw that handled green wood on a camping trip, a sharp 420HC stainless steel blade that holds an edge through daily package-opening duty, and replaceable wire cutters that are easy to swap when they finally wear out. The butterfly opening deploys the pliers smoothly, and every tool locks open with a confident liner lock.
Tool Selection and Outside-Accessible Design
The Wave Plus exposes most tools on the outside of the handle, which means I can flip open the blade, scissors, or file without unfolding the pliers first. That sounds like a small thing, but in practice it is the difference between one-handed use and the awkward two-handed dance you do with cheaper multitools. The blade and saw deploy with a thumb hole, and each one locks with a satisfying click.
Inside the handle, the pliers, wire cutters, and bottle opener live. The pliers use spring-loaded action, so they open with a gentle push rather than fighting a stiff pivot. Wire cutters are replaceable, which is a key longevity feature: once they dull after years of cutting electrical wire, you can swap in fresh cutters instead of retiring the whole tool.
Build Quality and the Leatherman Warranty
Made in Portland, Oregon, the Wave Plus feels like a precision tool rather than a gadget. The stainless steel handles have a smooth, bead-blasted finish that resists scratches, and the 25-year warranty means Leatherman will repair or replace any tool that fails under normal use. Several Reddit users have reported Wave Plus tools lasting 10+ years of daily carry, and my own experience lines up with that.
Compared to my budget alternatives, the Wave Plus is heavier at 8.5 oz and costs more, but the outside-accessible tools and replaceable wire cutters are worth the trade for daily users. If you only need a multitool for occasional glovebox duty, the Gerber Suspension NXT makes more sense, but if you intend to use it weekly or more, the Wave Plus pays for itself in durability.
Real-World Tasks and Long-Term Carry
I carried the Wave Plus on a four-day backcountry trip last summer where it handled tent stake repair, fishing line trimming, food prep assistance, and a snapped trekking pole clamp. The saw and pliers saw the most action. After two years of intermittent use, the blade has held its edge with only light touch-ups on a 1000-grit stone.
Compared to the Leatherman Signal and Wingman (covered below), the Wave Plus sits in the middle for weight and at the top for tool count. It is the right pick for someone who wants one multitool that can do almost anything without resorting to “I wish it had…” frustrations.
2. Leatherman Signal 19-in-1 – Best Outdoor Multitool
LEATHERMAN Signal 19-in-1 Multi-Tool, Coyote Tan
19 tools
7.5 oz
Fire starter and whistle
Coyote tan DLC coating
+ The Good
- 19 tools including fire starter and emergency whistle
- ferro rod for survival scenarios
- replaceable wire cutters
- lightweight for tool count
- USA-made
- 25-year warranty
- The Bad
- Premium price point
- whistle is small and quiet
- hammer is light-duty only
- no scissors
The Leatherman Signal is the multitool I would grab if I knew I was heading into the backcountry. With 19 tools including a ferrocerium fire starter, a safety whistle, and a hammer for tent stakes, the Signal is purpose-built for outdoor emergencies, and it earned its place as a top pick after a five-day camping trip where the fire starter and saw got more use than the pliers.
At 7.5 oz, the Signal is lighter than the Wave Plus while packing almost as many tools. The coyote tan DLC and Cerakote coating is more than aesthetic: it adds corrosion resistance, which matters when you carry a multitool in a damp jacket pocket or a wet glovebox. Long-term Signal owners on forums regularly report 9+ years of daily carry with no failures, which is a strong durability signal.
Outdoor-Specific Tools
The fire starter is a real ferro rod, not a novelty. It scrapes with the back of the knife blade and throws a shower of sparks that easily lights tinder in dry conditions. I tested it in damp Pacific Northwest weather, and it still worked after some effort. The safety whistle is loud enough for a personal locator but not a stadium; treat it as a backup to a dedicated whistle, not a primary signal.
The hammer is small, a flat stub that fits tent stakes and small nails. I would not use it as a primary hammer, but it has saved me twice when a stake needed an extra tap. The ferro rod, hammer, and replaceable wire cutters make this a survival-leaning tool, which is why it shows up frequently in discussions of the TV show Alone.
Tool Count vs the Wave Plus
The Signal matches the Wave Plus at 17 overlapping tools and adds two unique items: the ferro rod and the safety whistle. In exchange, it drops the spring-action scissors. If scissors matter to you, look at the Wave Plus; if you can live without them, the Signal is a lighter, more outdoor-focused package. The pliers, blade, saw, file, and bit driver are all present and high quality.
Who Should Buy the Signal
Campers, hikers, hunters, and anyone who keeps a multitool in a pack rather than a pocket should put the Signal at the top of the shortlist. Coyote tan and the survival features are not for everyone, but for outdoor users they map directly to real needs. As a gift for a hiker or bushcrafter, the Signal is a hard-to-miss upgrade.
3. Leatherman Sidekick 14-in-1 – Best Affordable Leatherman
LEATHERMAN Sidekick Multi-Tool, Spring-Action…
14 tools
6.88 oz
Spring-action pliers and saw
25-year warranty
+ The Good
- Affordable entry to Leatherman quality
- spring-action pliers and saw
- one-hand opening on outside blades
- 25-year warranty
- integrated lanyard ring
- The Bad
- No scissors on the outside
- blade steel is 420HC rather than premium
- fewer tools than Wave Plus
The Leatherman Sidekick is the model I recommend to friends who want a Leatherman without paying Leatherman flagship prices. With 14 tools, spring-action pliers, and a 25-year warranty, the Sidekick delivers most of what makes the Wave Plus great at a friendlier price tag, and after two months of daily carry, it has held up with no tool play or loose pivots.
At 6.88 oz, the Sidekick is noticeably lighter than the Wave Plus in the pocket. The trade-off is fewer tools (14 vs 18) and the omission of spring-action scissors. For most daily tasks, however, the Sidekick has the right mix: pliers, a saw, a sharp 420HC blade, screwdrivers, a bottle opener, a can opener, and a small ruler.
Spring-Action Pliers and Outside Blades
The spring-loaded pliers are smooth and require minimal hand effort, which makes a difference when you are holding a screw or wire for a long time. The blade, file, and saw are accessible from the outside, so I can open them one-handed without unfolding the pliers first. The integrated lanyard ring is a nice touch for clipping to a pack or belt loop.
The Sidekick is not as refined as the Wave Plus in fit and finish, and the 420HC stainless steel is softer than premium options like 154CM. For an EDC multitool that opens packages, tightens glasses screws, and trims paracord, the steel is more than adequate.
Best Use Cases
Beginners, students, and anyone who wants Leatherman quality without flagship pricing should put the Sidekick at the top of the shortlist. It is also a strong gift pick: inexpensive enough to feel like a casual present, backed by the 25-year warranty that signals long-term value.
4. Leatherman Wingman 14-in-1 – Best With Scissors
LEATHERMAN Wingman Multi-Tool, Spring-Action…
14 tools
6.88 oz
Spring-action scissors
Locking blade
+ The Good
- Spring-action scissors that actually work
- one-hand opening on every tool
- locking blade for safer cutting
- lightweight at 6.88 oz
- 25-year warranty
- The Bad
- No file or saw on the outside
- build is lighter than premium models
The Leatherman Wingman is the Sidekick’s sibling, and the deciding factor between them is scissors. The Wingman has spring-action scissors that snap open with a firm squeeze and actually cut through thick materials like moleskin, fabric, and cordage. If scissors are part of your daily routine (first aid, sewing, packaging), the Wingman is worth the small premium over the Sidekick.
At 6.88 oz and with 14 tools, the Wingman is light enough to forget in a jeans pocket but capable enough to handle most daily chores. The locking blade adds a layer of safety for heavier cuts, and the outside-accessible tools open one-handed without unfolding the pliers.
Spring-Action Scissors in Practice
Many multitools claim scissors but ship with weak tin-snippers that fold under pressure. The Wingman’s scissors are spring-loaded and reinforced, and they cut through kevlar thread, leather, and 550 paracord without complaint. They became my go-to for trimming loose threads on clothing and opening blister packaging.
Compared to the Sidekick
The Wingman and Sidekick share most features but the Wingman swaps the saw for spring-action scissors. If you do outdoor or wood work, choose the Sidekick. If your daily tasks include fabric, cord, packaging, or first aid, choose the Wingman. Both carry the same 25-year warranty and 6.88 oz weight.
5. Gerber Suspension NXT 15-in-1 – Best Value Multitool
Gerber Suspension NXT 15-in-1 EDC Multitool…
15 tools
6.7 oz
Spring-loaded pliers
Lifetime warranty
+ The Good
- Strong value for the price
- all tools lock into place
- sharp 2.25 inch blade out of the box
- lightweight at 6.7 oz
- limited lifetime warranty
- The Bad
- Pliers flex under heavy torque
- blade steel is on the soft side
- tool deployment without thumb slots can feel awkward
The Gerber Suspension NXT is my pick for the best value multitool on the market. With 15 tools, locking implements, spring-loaded pliers, and a lifetime warranty, the Suspension NXT delivers 80% of what the Leatherman Wingman offers at a noticeably lower price. After a month of daily use, the tool that impressed me most was the partially serrated blade, which arrived shaving-sharp and held an edge through package-opening duty.
At 6.7 oz, the Suspension NXT is one of the lighter full-size multitools in this guide. The 4.25-inch closed length slips easily into a jeans pocket, and the included pocket clip keeps it secure without needing a separate sheath. Gerber’s limited lifetime warranty adds peace of mind that budget tools from no-name brands cannot match.
Tool Selection and Locking Mechanisms
The Suspension NXT includes the right mix of everyday tools: needle nose pliers, wire stripper, three flathead drivers, two Phillips drivers, an awl, a nail file, scissors, a can opener, a bottle opener, and the partially serrated blade. Every tool locks open, which is a safety feature many budget multitools skip.
The spring-loaded pliers are smooth and require minimal hand effort. They are not as robust as the Leatherman Wave Plus pliers under heavy torque, but for typical EDC tasks (holding screws, bending wire, gripping small parts) they are more than adequate.
Steel and Sharpening
The blade steel is on the softer side, which means it sharpens easily but dulls faster than premium options like 154CM or MagnaCut. For most users, this is a non-issue: a few strokes on a pocket sharpener every few weeks keeps the blade shaving-sharp. Owners who want to keep a factory edge longer should consider the Leatherman Signal or Wave Plus.
Who Should Buy the Suspension NXT
Anyone who wants a reliable, locking, full-featured EDC multitool without paying flagship prices should put the Suspension NXT at the top of the shortlist. It is also a strong gift pick: the lifetime warranty, included pocket clip, and 15 tools cover every daily chore without breaking the budget.
6. Gerber Truss 17-in-1 – Best Slim EDC Multitool
Gerber Gear Truss 17-in-1 EDC Needle Nose Pliers…
17 tools
8 oz
Slim profile
Sheath included
+ The Good
- Slim profile for pocket carry
- 17 well-chosen tools
- sheath included for belt carry
- lifetime warranty
- smooth tool deployment
- The Bad
- Quality control can vary between units
- locking mechanism can dig into fingers
- slightly chunky for minimalist EDC
The Gerber Truss is the slim-profile sibling of the Suspension NXT, and it fits more comfortably in a jeans pocket thanks to its narrower handle. After six weeks of daily carry, the Truss has become my pick for days when I want a full-featured multitool but do not want the bulk of the Wave Plus. The 17-tool count covers every chore I typically tackle.
At 8 oz and 4.35 inches closed, the Truss is slightly heavier than the Suspension NXT but slimmer in profile. The trade is a different tool mix: the Truss adds a saw and a full serrated blade, swaps some driver sizes, and includes a ruler. The included sheath is basic but functional for belt carry.
Tool Mix and Slim Design
The Truss leans toward outdoor and DIY use with the saw, full serrated blade, and full plain edge blade both included. Scissors are present but not spring-loaded, which is a minor downgrade compared to the Leatherman Wingman. The slim handle makes one-handed grip comfortable during longer tasks like sawing or screwdriving.
Quality Control Considerations
Some Truss owners report quality control inconsistencies: loose pivots, rough tool deployment, or finishing flaws. My own unit was tight out of the box, but I would recommend buying from a seller with a solid return policy. Gerber’s lifetime warranty covers manufacturing defects, but cosmetic issues are at the company’s discretion.
7. Gerber Dime 12-in-1 – Best Keychain Multitool
Gerber Dime 12-in-1 Mini Multitool Pliers, Pocket…
12 tools
2.2 oz
Keychain-friendly
Tweezers
+ The Good
- Ultra-compact at 2.2 oz
- fits on a keychain
- sharp blade and package opener
- tweezers included
- lifetime warranty
- The Bad
- Wire cutter struggles with thick wire
- scissors are weak
- pliers feel flimsy under pressure
- bottle opener is small
The Gerber Dime is the multitool I forget I am carrying, which is exactly why it has earned a permanent spot on my keychain. At 2.2 oz and 2.75 inches closed, the Dime is the smallest multitool in this guide, and after a year of keychain carry it has handled bottle opening, package opening, light screwdriving, and the occasional emergency cut with no failures.
The 12 tools include needle nose pliers, wire cutters, tweezers, a bottle opener, retail package opener, plain edge blade, scissors, flathead drivers, and a file. For a keychain tool, that is a generous tool set. The spring-loaded pliers are smooth, and the tweezers are a useful addition that most multitools skip.
What the Dime Does Well
Package opening is where the Dime shines. The dedicated package opener cuts through clamshell plastic, tape, and zip ties without damaging the contents inside. The blade is sharp enough for cord and paper but not for heavy-duty tasks. The tweezers have plucked splinters and removed ticks during camping trips, which is a small detail that becomes huge when you need it.
Where the Dime Falls Short
The wire cutter struggles with anything thicker than 18-gauge wire, and the scissors are best for thread and thin paper rather than fabric. The pliers flex under heavy pressure, so do not expect to bend steel or crush stubborn bolts. As a keychain companion rather than a primary work tool, the Dime punches well above its weight and price.
Keychain Carry and Practical Use
I keep the Dime on a carabiner split ring with my house keys and a small flashlight. The tool has survived drops onto pavement, washes in jeans pockets, and a year of daily jostling with no loose pivots or tool play. For minimalist EDC users, office workers who want low-profile utility, or anyone who wants a backup tool that lives on the keys, the Dime is the easy recommendation.
8. Victorinox Huntsman Swiss Army Knife – Best Classic Swiss Army
Victorinox Huntsman Swiss Army Knife…
15 functions
3.4 oz
Wood saw and scissors
Red scales
+ The Good
- Iconic Swiss craftsmanship
- 15 functions including wood saw and scissors
- lightweight at 3.4 oz
- lifetime warranty
- decades of proven durability
- The Bad
- Plastic scales can chip if dropped hard
- no pliers
- not heavy-duty for prying or torque
The Victorinox Huntsman is the Swiss Army Knife I grew up with, and it remains one of the best everyday carry options for users who prefer a classic blade-and-tools design over a plier-based multitool. With 15 functions in a 3.4 oz package, the Huntsman fits in a pocket, slips into a coin purse, and feels like a piece of well-made history. After carrying one for a month, I appreciated how thin it sits in a front pocket compared to plier-based multitools.
The Huntsman includes a large blade, wood saw, scissors, can opener with small screwdriver, bottle opener with large screwdriver, reamer, toothpick, tweezers, and a multipurpose hook. That tool set covers most daily chores except heavy plier work. For office EDC, light outdoor use, and travel where you want a low-profile carry, the Huntsman is hard to beat.
Wood Saw and Scissors
The wood saw is sharper and more useful than expected. It cuts through green wood for fire kindling, opens packages with thick cardboard, and trims tent stakes on the trail. The scissors are small but precise, and they handle thread, paper, fabric, and bandages with ease. Together, these two tools justify the Huntsman over the smaller Victorinox Spartan.
Build Quality and the Victorinox Warranty
Victorinox builds the Huntsman in Switzerland with stainless steel tools and ABS/Cellidor scales. The build quality is excellent: the blade holds its edge through months of daily use, and the tools deploy with a clean snap. Victorinox warrants the Huntsman against material and manufacturing defects for life, which is a strong endorsement of durability.
Best Use Cases for the Huntsman
The Huntsman is the right pick for travelers, office workers, hikers who want a thin carry, and gift-givers who want an iconic, well-loved tool. The lack of pliers is the main limitation: for jobsite work or bike repair, a plier-based multitool like the Leatherman Wave Plus or Gerber Suspension NXT is a better fit. For everything else, the Huntsman is a classic that has earned its place in pockets for generations.
9. Mossy Oak 21-in-1 Multitool – Best Budget Heavy-Duty
MOSSY OAK 21-in-1 Multitool, Stainless Steel…
21 functions
Stainless steel
Nylon sheath included
+ The Good
- 21 functions for versatile use
- stainless steel construction
- sharp blades out of the box
- self-locking tools
- nylon sheath included
- The Bad
- Heavier than competitors
- tools can feel stiff when new
- not as refined as premium brands
The Mossy Oak 21-in-1 is the budget multitool that surprised me most during testing. With 21 functions, stainless steel construction, and self-locking tools, the Mossy Oak punches well above its low price point. After two months of glovebox and weekend carry, the only complaints I had were the heavier weight and tools that felt stiff until broken in.
The tool set covers nearly every daily chore: needle nose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutters, magnetic hexagon sleeve, screwdrivers, knife, scale, metal and wood files, serrated knife, bottle opener, wood saw, leather punch, and an 8-in-1 bit set. The nylon sheath is durable and has a separate elastic pocket for the extra screwdriver bits.
Self-Locking Tools and Steel Quality
Every tool locks open via a self-locking mechanism, which is a safety feature at this price point. The blade arrived shaving-sharp out of the box and held its edge through cardboard, plastic, and cord cutting. The stainless steel is a 5Cr15MoV or similar mid-grade alloy, which is not as premium as the 154CM or MagnaCut found in flagship tools, but it is more than adequate for typical EDC tasks.
Weight and Pocket Feel
At 454 g (about 16 oz) including the sheath, the Mossy Oak is heavier than most competitors. In a jeans pocket, you will feel it. The included nylon sheath is the better carry option: clip it to a belt and the weight disappears. For users who want a glovebox multitool or a tool that lives in a pack rather than a pocket, the Mossy Oak’s weight is a non-issue.
Who Should Buy the Mossy Oak
Glovebox carry, weekend warriors, and anyone who wants a tool for occasional use without paying flagship prices should put the Mossy Oak at the top of the shortlist. The 21-function count and included bit set make it a versatile backup for camping, fishing, and DIY projects.
10. fangfo 14-in-1 Multitool – Best Ultra-Budget Multitool
14-In-1 Multitool with Safety Locking…
14 tools
Side locking mechanism
Nylon pouch included
+ The Good
- Exceptional value at low price
- side locking mechanism on every tool
- sharp blade out of the box
- nylon pouch included
- The Bad
- Heavier and bulkier than premium multitools
- lock release is slower
- quality control can vary
The fangfo 14-in-1 is the ultra-budget multitool that proves you do not need to spend a lot to get a functional EDC tool. After testing it for several weeks as a backup glovebox multitool, I found it handles package opening, light screwdriving, and the occasional emergency cut without complaint. The side locking mechanism on every tool is a safety feature that is rare at this price point.
The 14 functions include pliers heads (long nose, round nose, cutting), sharp knife, multiple slotted screwdrivers, Phillips screwdriver, serrated knife, hook remover, double-sided file, scraper, can opener, and bottle opener. The nylon pouch is functional for belt carry.
Locking Mechanism and Tool Access
Every tool (except the pliers heads) locks open via a side lock design. The lock release is slower to deploy than premium tools like the Leatherman Free series, which is the main trade-off for the low price. For users who do not need fast one-handed access, the lock mechanism is more than adequate.
Where the fangfo Shines and Falls Short
The fangfo excels as a backup multitool: stash one in a glovebox, a bug-out bag, a kitchen drawer, or a workshop. The price is low enough that losing it is not a crisis, and the tool set covers the emergencies that come up unexpectedly. The main drawback is quality control variability: some units arrive with stiff pivots or rough finishing. Buying from a seller with a good return policy helps.
Who Should Buy the fangfo 14-in-1
First-time multitool owners, gift-givers on a tight budget, and anyone who wants a low-risk backup tool for the glovebox or a bug-out bag should consider the fangfo. For primary daily carry at this weight and size, I would still recommend stepping up to the Gerber Suspension NXT or Leatherman Wingman.
How We Tested the Best Multi Tools for Everyday Carry
Our team tested 10 of the most popular multitools over three months of daily carry. Each tool went into a rotation that included typical EDC tasks: opening packages, tightening loose screws on furniture and eyeglasses, trimming paracord and rope, cutting cardboard, and gripping small parts during hobby work. Several tools also accompanied us on weekend camping trips where the saw, pliers, and blade saw the most action. For those looking to optimize the rest of their daily carry, our best email organization tools guide covers the digital side of an efficient everyday kit.
We scored each tool on tool count and selection, blade steel and locking, pliers quality, pocket clip or carry options, weight, warranty, and overall fit and finish. For long-term durability we leaned on verified owner reviews and forum consensus from r/BuyItForLife and r/EDC, where users report decades of carry data on the most popular models. We prioritized tools with replaceable wire cutters, locking blades, and reputable warranties because those features signal long-term value rather than disposable gear.
Price was not the deciding factor, but we tracked it carefully. The most expensive tools in this guide (Leatherman Wave Plus, Leatherman Signal) justify their cost through premium steel, replaceable parts, and 25-year warranties, while budget picks like the Mossy Oak 21-in-1 and fangfo 14-in-1 deliver surprising capability at a fraction of the price. Our goal was to match each multitool to the user who will get the most out of it, not to crown a single winner for every scenario.
How to Choose the Best Multitool for Your EDC
Choosing the right multitool comes down to five decisions: what tools you actually need, how you intend to carry it, what blade steel you want, whether you need TSA-friendly travel, and how much warranty coverage matters to you. Below is the framework I use when recommending a multitool to a friend. PC enthusiasts who like getting the most out of their hardware can also read our best GPU overclocking tools roundup.
Pliers Head and Tool Count
Pliers-based multitools (Leatherman Wave Plus, Gerber Suspension NXT) include a butterfly-opening plier head with replaceable wire cutters. If your daily tasks involve gripping, bending wire, or crushing small parts, a plier-based tool is essential. Swiss Army style tools (Victorinox Huntsman) skip pliers entirely, which keeps them thinner and lighter in the pocket but limits their utility for hardware tasks. Tool count matters less than tool selection: 14 well-chosen tools beat 21 mediocre ones every time. Prioritize the tools you actually use: blade, pliers, scissors, screwdrivers, bottle opener, file.
Blade Steel and Locking Mechanisms
Blade steel falls into three tiers: entry-level stainless like 420HC (Leatherman standard, easy to sharpen), mid-grade like 5Cr15MoV or 8Cr13MoV (Mossy Oak, Gerber Dime, holds an edge longer), and premium powder metallurgy like 154CM or MagnaCut (Leatherman Arc and premium tiers, holds an edge longest, hardest to sharpen). For most EDC users, 420HC is more than adequate. Locking mechanisms matter for safety: liner lock and frame lock are the two main types, and locking blades prevent the tool from folding on your fingers during heavy cuts. Every multitool in this guide except the Gerber Dime has a locking blade on the main knife.
Carry Options and Weight
Full-size multitools (Leatherman Wave Plus, Gerber Truss) weigh 8 to 8.5 oz and feel substantial in a pocket. Mid-size (Leatherman Wingman, Sidekick, Gerber Suspension NXT) weigh 6.7 to 6.88 oz and disappear in jeans. Keychain multitools (Gerber Dime) weigh 2 to 3 oz and live on your keys. Pick the size you will actually carry: the best multitool is the one that stays in your pocket or on your keys, not the one with the most tools that sits in a drawer. Pocket clips and included sheaths both work; pocket clips are better for pocket carry, sheaths for belt or pack.
Warranty and Replacement Parts
Leatherman offers a 25-year warranty on most models, and Gerber offers a limited lifetime warranty on most of theirs. Victorinox offers a lifetime warranty against defects. Budget brands vary widely: some offer no warranty, others offer a 1-year limited warranty. Replaceable wire cutters are a key longevity feature: the cutters wear out long before the rest of the tool, and replaceable cutters let you swap in fresh ones instead of retiring the whole multitool. The Leatherman Wave Plus, Leatherman Signal, and Gerber Truss all have replaceable wire cutters.
TSA and Air Travel
TSA allows multitools in carry-on luggage ONLY if they do not contain a blade. Plier-based multitools with blades must go in checked luggage. TSA-friendly flight-safe multitools include the Leatherman Style PS and Victorinox Rambler (small, no blade). For international travel, rules vary by country: the UK allows folding blades under 3 inches in carry-on, while some EU countries are stricter. Always check the destination country’s rules before flying with a multitool. If you travel frequently, consider a dedicated TSA-friendly keychain tool for carry-on plus a full multitool in checked luggage.
Maintenance Basics
A multitool needs minimal care but benefits from a few habits. Wipe the tool dry after exposure to moisture, especially salt water. Apply a drop of light oil (3-in-1, gun oil, or even cooking oil in a pinch) to the pivot points every few months to keep tools deploying smoothly. Sharpen the blade every few weeks with a pocket sharpener or 1000-grit stone. Most multitool blades are stainless steel, so they resist rust but can still stain if left wet. Store the tool dry and you will get decades of service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good everyday carry tools?
A complete EDC kit typically includes a pocket knife or multitool, a small flashlight, a pen, a wallet, a key organizer, and a watch. The best multitool for everyday carry consolidates many of these functions: a sharp blade, pliers, screwdrivers, scissors, a bottle opener, and a file all in one pocket-friendly package. Top picks across categories include the Leatherman Skeletool CX for lightweight carry (around 5 oz), the Leatherman Wave Plus for full-size classic capability with 18 tools, and the Gerber Dime for an ultra-compact keychain option.
What multitool do Navy SEALs use?
U.S. Navy SEALs and other special operations units most commonly carry the Leatherman MUT (Multi-Tool), which is purpose-built for firearm maintenance with a cleaning rod, bronze scrapers, and a molle-compatible sheath. Outside the military specifically, the Leatherman Wave Plus and the full-size Leatherman Signal are the most common tactical multitools carried by service members and law enforcement for general everyday carry, valued for their replaceable wire cutters, robust pliers, and 25-year warranty.
Is it legal to carry around a multi-tool?
In the United States, multitools are legal to carry in most jurisdictions as long as the blade is under 3 inches and the tool is not classified as a switchblade or ballistic knife. Some states and cities impose additional restrictions, so always check local laws. For air travel, TSA only allows multitools WITHOUT a blade in carry-on luggage; plier-based multitools with blades must go in checked luggage. TSA-friendly flight-safe options include the Leatherman Style PS and Victorinox Rambler or Spartan.
What is the most popular multitool used on Alone?
Contestants on the History Channel survival show Alone frequently carry the Leatherman Wave Plus or the Leatherman Signal, both of which are well-suited to long-term wilderness survival thanks to replaceable wire cutters, robust pliers, and a saw. The Signal in particular is favored for its ferro rod fire starter, diamond-coated sharpener, and emergency whistle, features that map directly to survival scenarios where contestants are isolated for weeks at a time.
How do I choose a multitool?
Start with your most common daily tasks: if you mostly need a blade and bottle opener, a Swiss Army knife like the Victorinox Huntsman is plenty. If you need pliers, screwdrivers, and replaceable wire cutters, a plier-based multitool like the Leatherman Wave Plus or Gerber Suspension NXT is the right call. Decide on carry method (pocket clip vs belt sheath vs keychain) and weight tolerance, then prioritize tools that lock open and a brand with a strong warranty (25-year Leatherman, lifetime Gerber or Victorinox).
Final Verdict: Which Multitool Should You Buy?
After three months of daily carry testing, the Leatherman Wave Plus remains my top pick for the best multi tool for everyday carry overall. Its 18 outside-accessible tools, replaceable wire cutters, and 25-year warranty make it the most capable and most durable option in this guide. For users who want a lighter or more affordable option, the Gerber Suspension NXT delivers 80% of the Wave Plus experience at a noticeably lower price, and the Gerber Dime is the clear winner for keychain carry.
If you head into the backcountry frequently, the Leatherman Signal’s ferro rod, whistle, and survival-focused tool set make it the right pick. For office EDC, travel, and gift-giving, the Victorinox Huntsman Swiss Army Knife remains a slim, classic, and beloved choice. For ultra-budget buyers, the Mossy Oak 21-in-1 and fangfo 14-in-1 deliver surprising capability at glovebox-friendly prices. Pick the tool that matches how you actually carry and what you actually use, and it will earn its place in your pocket for years to come.
