Multitool

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A multitool is a practical tool that can come in handy. For easy access, most people keep these tools in their wallets or toolboxes. When faced with an emergency repair, such as replacing a broken door or window, installing a doorknob, or even building a new deck, a multitool may be the best option.

These tools are designed to perform multiple tasks. The main focus of multitools is to provide enough force to cut through materials like wood, plastic, metal, and ceramic. Many multitools also have features that make them useful for other purposes, like opening packages, carving a clean tip on a stick for a marshmallow roast, and even harvesting a sprig of fresh herbs. The list goes on and on, and there are plenty of great multitools available to choose from.

What To Consider When Choosing The Best Multitool

Before you start shopping for a multi tool, there are some important points that you should know about them. The following section will point out several of the most critical features and functions to look for when selecting the best multi-tool.

Intended Use

The main use for a multi tool is to provide convenience and protection while doing everyday tasks. For instance, if you need to tighten something, a socket wrench set with a couple of sockets is probably not going to cut it. A hammer or a hand saw might be more suitable. However, even if you have one of each, having a few extra tools on hand means you won’t have to go searching for what you want.

A multi tool allows you to get the job done faster and with greater efficiency without worrying about whether you have the right tool for the task. This is because they’re designed to work with other tools or in situations where no single tool will do the trick.

Material

Most multi tools are made from either steel alloys (often called just steels) or titanium. Steel has traditionally been used for industrial applications like construction and automotive manufacturing, whereas titanium is better suited for high-tech devices like computers and phones. Both materials have their benefits and downsides, so consider which type of multi tool works best for your specific situation.

Steel multi tools tend to be heavier than titanium options but generally longer lasting. They can rust easily, especially if left untreated, so make sure to clean and dry them after use.
Titanium multi tools are lighter weight and usually shorter lived compared to steels. These devices don’t rust as readily as steels, though regular cleaning and drying still helps extend lifespan.

Size/Weight

When it comes to choosing between smaller and larger multitools, there’s really no correct answer. It depends on how much work space you have and how heavy it needs to be. If you spend a lot of time working outdoors, then a large multitool may be worth the weight. However, if you only need a multitool every now and then, a lighter one might be a better pick. Smaller multitools tend to weigh less and therefore take up less storage space.

Portability

If you plan on bringing a full-size multitool daily, think about how you will do so. Many people who work in the “trades” are able to wear a tool. This method of transportation is unquestionably the most effective, convenient, hygienic, and cozy. However, this carry method is not popular in most circles due to modern fashion and social convention. In this scenario, you’ll keep the tools in your handbag or jeans pocket. Specialized carry characteristics have little practical use in a purse. Perhaps it would be beneficial to attach it with a lanyard ring so that it can be quickly retrieved. But think about a pocket-clipped carry for the pocket of your jeans. Walking causes a tool in a pocket to flip around. Additionally, when pulled out, it can knock other items out of your pocket because it gets clogged with extra coins.

Number of Pieces Included

As mentioned earlier, many manufacturers include a case with their multi tools. In these cases, the manufacturer will assemble different sized wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, etc into a neat little kit. While this does save you the trouble of buying separate tools, it also limits your choice since you’ll never know what size you need until you open the package.

Alternatively, some companies sell stand-alone tools that users must purchase separately. These tools allow buyers to choose exactly what they want, but often come at a higher price tag.

Storage

If you’d rather not carry around an entire tool box, a multipurpose tool such as a hammer or a pair of scissors may be a better option. However, even those who keep everything in their pockets should stow a backup plan just in case. Carrying a small bag or fanny pack full of essential items simply isn’t practical. Instead, invest in a quality belt with a wide range of tools attached to it. Users wear these belts daily and find them very convenient.

Ergonomics

Multi tools aren’t always easy on the body. Sometimes they feature awkward shapes that don’t fit naturally inside clothing, leading to discomfort during use. Other times, the handles are too big and lead to blisters or bruises from repeatedly slamming them against the body. Fortunately, modern technology has allowed designers to fix many ergonomic problems. Today’s models have padded grips that reduce slippage and shock damage; rubberized areas that help prevent injuries from repeated impact; and soft-start mechanisms that gradually build torque instead of delivering a jolt at max strength.

Types Of Multi-tools

Multi-tools come in many different forms, and it’s important to know what you’re getting into before making a purchase. Here are some common types of multi-tools that you can find at pretty much any hardware or big box store today.

Knife-based

This kind of multi-tool includes one or more substantial knife blades but typically excludes a pair of pliers. If it has pliers, they are usually little and appear to have been added afterwards.

Pliers-based

The main focus of this kind of multi-tool is a precisely made set of pliers. Along with the pliers, it will probably also have one or more blades, but the pliers would be designed to grip, twist, and pull almost any material. Today’s most popular multi-tools are those that have pliers as their base.

Keychain-Style Multitools

These have been greatly shrunk so they can fit discreetly on a key set. That is, unnoticed unless the user requires one of the features available. The user will have a ready tool that is just as accessible as his or her keys when presented with one of the numerous everyday activities. These are best suited for more routine, simpler tasks because they are smaller tools. When the multi-tool is on their keys, everyone becomes a “multi-tool person.”

Full-Size Multitools

Most of the category falls under this. This category includes the majority of multi-tools on the market. Construction quality, price, functionalities, and carry methods serve to distinguish distinct types of tools. Compared to keychain counterparts, these tools are able to complete more varied and substantial jobs because of their larger construction, which enables them to withstand more rigorous use.

Specialized Purpose Multi-Tools

It’s a little difficult to describe this. In essence, some tools provide the standard functions (pliers, blades, drivers), and then they incorporate tools that will be useful to a certain user group. Options in this category may be of interest to electricians, explosives specialists, gun owners, and others. Some tools are slightly more robust and useful than multipurpose tools. For instance, this latter segment includes the SOG PowerAssist. It lacks specialist equipment but is obviously geared toward users who work in manual labor, such as construction. We’ve studied other, more specialized instruments like locking pliers and screwdrivers.

How We Chose Our Top Picks

We started by searching for the best-rated and most popular brands available. We limited our search to products that were designed specifically for use in a carpenter bee nest. The top picks are strong, durable pieces with ample weight capacities of up to 800 pounds. The majority of these options come with powder-coated finishes for long lifespans and durability. Some of these tools also have sharp edges or heavy-duty construction for added convenience.

For those who prefer eco-friendly practices, selections for this list include recycled plastic handles and bodies, as well as sustainable bamboo handles. Finally, some of these tools are made without using any toxic chemicals at all.

Frequently Asked Questions About Multitools

What is the best type of multi-tool for self defense?

The one you train with.

How many tools should a good set of defensive tools include?

A good set will depend on your intended use case(s). As always, practice proper technique and keep it legal.

Is it better to carry a folding knife or fixed blade knife?

This depends entirely on what you intend to use it for. For example, if you’re going into the field and need something easily carried in public, go with a folder. If you want something more discreet for everyday carry, go with a fixed blade.

What is the importance of a multi purpose tool?

A few significant advantages of multi-tools include the following: With multi-tools, everything is kept together and no individual items are lost. Multi-tools are simple to use and get to. The requirement to choose and buy individual tools is eliminated with multi-tools.