A good multi-tool can be the difference between a quick fix and a frustrating problem, whether on a job site, out in the wilderness, or handling everyday tasks. With so many options available, choosing the best multi-tool depends on your specific needs—some prioritize portability, while others focus on versatility or durability. From the Leatherman Rebar, a rugged choice for tradespeople, to the Leatherman Wave+, a go-to for survival situations, we’ve rounded up the best multi-tools for every use case.
Best multi-tools, rated and reviewed
Best overall: Leatherman Surge
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Built for heavy-duty tasks with a durable, stainless-steel construction – 21 tools, including a blade exchanger, large scissors, and replaceable wire cutters – Well-designed ergonomics make it comfortable for frequent use | – Weighs over 12 oz, making it one of the heaviest multi-tools – Bulkier design may not be ideal for pocket carry – Proprietary bit driver limits compatibility with standard bits |
- Price: $149.95
- Buy here: Amazon | Leatherman
The Leatherman Surge is built for those who need maximum functionality without compromise. This is a tool designed for frequent users who prioritize utility over portability. At over 12 ounces, it’s heavier than most multi-tools, but that extra weight translates to superior durability and functionality. Whether it’s the blade exchanger, large scissors, or replaceable wire cutters, every feature is thoughtfully designed for real-world use. It’s small enough to carry in a pocket, but can also be a glovebox essential, basecamp tool, or part of a work kit. If you need a multi-tool that prioritizes function over portability, the Surge is one of the best options.
Top features
- Needlenose and regular pliers
- Replaceable wire cutters
- 420HC straight and serrated knife blades
- Blade exchanger with saw and file
- Spring action scissors
- Awl with thread loop
- Can and bottle opener
- Ruler (8 inches/19 cm)
- Electrical crimper
Best for trades: Leatherman Rebar
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Compact and lightweight design enhances portability – Robust construction ensures durability for demanding tasks – Replaceable wire cutters extend tool lifespan | – Tools are accessible only when the pliers are deployed – Opening and closing the tool requires both hands – Lacks scissors, which may be essential for some users |
- Price: $79.95
- Buy here: Amazon | Leatherman
The Leatherman Rebar is tailored for trade professionals, offering a balance between functionality and portability. Its compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for daily carry on job sites. The robust stainless steel construction ensures it can withstand rigorous use, while the replaceable wire cutters are particularly beneficial for electricians and other tradespeople who frequently work with wiring. However, it’s worth noting that accessing the tools requires opening the pliers, and the absence of scissors might be a drawback for some users.
Top features
- Needlenose and regular pliers
- Premium replaceable wire cutters
- 420HC straight and serrated knife blades
- Saw
- Awl with thread loop
- Ruler (8 inches/19 cm)
- Can and bottle opener
- Wood/metal file
- Phillips screwdriver
- Large and small flat screwdrivers
Best for everyday carry: Leatherman Skeletool
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Lightweight and compact design, ideal for daily carry – Essential tools without unnecessary bulk – One-handed blade access for convenience | – Limited tool selection compared to more comprehensive multitools – Proprietary bit driver limits compatibility with standard bits – Pliers lack spring-assisted opening, which may affect ease of use |
- Price: $89.95
- Buy here: Leatherman
The Leatherman Skeletool is designed for those seeking a minimalist yet functional everyday carry multi-tool. Weighing just 5 ounces, it offers a streamlined selection of essential tools without the bulk of traditional multi-tools. The 154CM stainless steel blade provides excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for daily tasks. Its one-handed blade access enhances convenience, allowing for quick deployment when needed. While it may lack the extensive toolset of larger models, the Skeletool focuses on delivering high-utility features in a compact form, making it an excellent choice for everyday carry.
Top features
- Needlenose and regular pliers
- Wire cutters
- 154CM straight-edge knife blade
- Universal bit driver with reversible bits
- Carabiner/bottle opener
- Removable pocket clip
Best compact: Victorinox Fieldmaster
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Compact and lightweight design, making it ideal for everyday carry – Comprehensive tool selection, including both scissors and a wood saw – High-quality stainless steel construction ensures durability | – Lacks pliers, which are essential for some users – The back-mounted Phillips screwdriver can be less convenient in tight spaces – The polished cellidor scales can become slippery when wet |
- Price: $52
- Buy here: Victorinox
The Victorinox Fieldmaster is a versatile and compact multi-tool that offers a set of 15 functions within a 3.5-inch frame, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable everyday carry option. Its lightweight design ensures it won’t weigh you down, while the inclusion of both scissors and a wood saw provides added versatility for various tasks. Crafted with high-quality stainless steel, the Fieldmaster is built to withstand daily use. However, it’s important to note that this model does not include pliers, which may be a drawback for some users. Additionally, the back-mounted Phillips screwdriver can be less convenient in tight spaces, and the polished cellidor scales may become slippery when wet. Overall, the Fieldmaster’s comprehensive toolset and compact form factor make it a valuable companion for everyday tasks and outdoor adventures.
Top features
- Large and small blades
- Scissors
- Wood saw
- Phillips screwdriver
- Bottle opener with large screwdriver and wire stripper
- Multipurpose hook
- Tweezers
- Toothpick
- Keyring
Best for mountain bikes: Pro Bike Tool 20-in-1
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Comprehensive range of 20 functions, covering most on-ride repair needs – Slim, compact, and lightweight design enhances portability – High-quality CNC-machined steel construction ensures durability | – Short tool bits may limit reach for certain adjustments – Chain tool can be challenging to grip during high-torque tasks – Lacks a master link tool, which could be essential for some riders |
- Price: $31.99
- Buy here: Amazon
The Pro Bike Tool 20-in-1 is a versatile and compact multi-tool designed to meet the diverse needs of cyclists, particularly mountain bikers. Weighing just 114 grams, it offers a wide set of functions, including a range of hex keys, screwdrivers, a chain tool, spoke wrenches, and more. Its slim profile makes it easy to carry in a saddlebag or jersey pocket. The high-quality CNC-machined steel construction ensures durability and reliable performance during repairs. However, users should be aware that the short length of the tool bits might make accessing specific components challenging, and the chain tool can be difficult to grip during high-torque applications.
Top features
- Hex keys: 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8 mm
- Torx bits: T25 and T30
- Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
- Chain tool compatible with 8-12 speed chains
- Spoke wrenches: 3.2 mm, 3.5 mm, Mavic M7, and M9
- Open wrenches: 8, 9, and 10 mm
- Valve core tool
Best for fishing: Gerber Compact Sport 400
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – One-handed sliding plier deployment for quick access – Compact and lightweight design enhances portability – Durable stainless steel construction ensures longevity | – Some users report that the tools can be stiff to open initially – The included sheath may not meet everyone’s quality expectations – The tool selection is more limited compared to larger multi-tools |
- Price: $59.99
- Buy here: Gerber
The Gerber Compact Sport 400 is an excellent choice for anglers seeking a reliable, portable multi-tool. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry during fishing trips, ensuring you’re prepared for various tasks without being weighed down. The one-handed sliding plier deployment allows for quick and efficient use, which is particularly beneficial when handling slippery fish or adjusting tackle. Crafted from durable stainless steel, this multi-tool is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor environments. However, some users have noted that the tools can be stiff to open initially, and the tool selection is more limited than larger multi-tools.
Top features
- Stainless steel handle and blade material
- Overall length: 5.63 inches
- Weight: 6.8 oz.
- Crosspoint screwdriver
- Drop-point knife blade
- Fiskars scissors
Best survival: Leatherman Wave+
| What we love | Things to consider |
| – Comprehensive set of 18 tools, including essential survival implements like a saw and multiple blades – One-handed access to four exterior tools, enhancing usability in critical situations – Durable stainless steel construction ensures reliability in harsh environments | – At approximately 8.5 ounces, it may be considered heavy for some users – Proprietary bit driver limits compatibility with standard bits – Some tools, like the scissors, are smaller compared to other models |
- Price: $119.95
- Buy here: Leatherman
The Leatherman Wave+ is a versatile multi-tool perfect for survival situations. It features 18 tools, including needlenose and regular pliers, replaceable wire cutters, a 420HC knife, a saw, and a variety of screwdrivers, providing a comprehensive toolkit for a wide range of tasks. The Wave+ allows one-handed access to four of its exterior tools, a crucial feature when quick deployment is necessary. Its durable stainless steel construction ensures it can withstand the demands of harsh environments. While it weighs approximately 8.5 ounces, which may be heavier for some, its extensive functionality justifies the weight. The proprietary bit driver system offers versatility, though it limits compatibility with standard bits. The Leatherman Wave+ provides a reliable and comprehensive toolset suitable for various survival scenarios.
Top features
- Needlenose and regular pliers
- Replaceable wire cutters
- 420HC straight and serrated knife blades
- Saw
- Spring-action scissors
- Can and bottle opener
- Wood/metal file
- Diamond-coated file
- Large and small bit drivers
A reliable multi-tool is an essential part of any toolkit, whether you’re on the job, out on an adventure, or handling everyday fixes.
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