Don't buy a striking tool with a hinge.
A standard hatchet has a flat surface on the back that will be just as effective as that thing:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002YTO7E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_GByqFbWEE8YW4
Also, don't buy tools with hollow handles, even if they've got super cool knives hidden in them.
Well, as it’s a gift request, I’m trying to avoid the saving up avenue.
But thanks for recommending Mossy Oak. I’ve never heard of them. This doesn’t look too bad.
there on amazon in the UK where i am.
don't know about other countrys though sorry.
Hello,
Does not seem to be listed at https://olympiatools.com/ yet.
Here is a non-affiliate Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/Olympia-Tools-88-027-107-Pen-Multi-Tool/dp/B073646R8T
Regards,
Aryeh Goretsky
I think the Skeletool is about the largest multitool I'm willing to carry in my pocket. Since you want to go smaller than the Skeletool, my "downsize" from that is the Gerber Armbar Drive. I actually carry that more often than the Skeletool anyway.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B084D4Y6GV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
My only complaint about it is that it doesn't have a pocket clip.
I use it on all my knives. What's good for sewing machines, will work just fine for knive mechanisms.
Haven't seen a dedicated multitool with one yet but the Gerber Prybrid is a solid stand alone. Its a compact sliding box cutter with a little extra functionality as it has a prybar and bottle opener. They also have a Prybrid X that uses an X-acto blade.
Prybrid : https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084CXMJNC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabt1_QB6TFbHWV250Q
Prybrid X : https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084D1RF9Z/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabt1_fD6TFbH0RRAGR
That would be exceptional!
I'd want to swap out the standard knife on my Wave for something like this, swap the serrated knife with a scaled down version of the scissors on the Surge, replace the can opener with a reamer, and replace the smaller scissors with some way to store a couple of extra 2 sided bits. The bits wouldn't quite fit on the current Wave, but I'd be happy making it a tiny bit wider for that.
there isn't a lot on offer out there in the way of multitools with precision screwdrivers to be honest. I think for what your after in a tool your best bet might be the victorinox cybertool.
It has a decent sized screw driver for electrons. I worked with computer as lot in the past and carried a cybertool a lot of the time. plus the driver bits are interchangeable to suite lots of needs. On top of thats its pocket friendly, has a bottle opener, a knife, a really handy set of pliers(a lot more useful than they look), scissors and some other bits.
im not from the US but its on amazon for $55. Its a good price for a good tool that's going to last.
Yea it is a little dated haha found these 2 on amazon not bad might be kinda cheap tho.
Gerber makes some excellent multitools in that price range. I would absolutely go with them way before I go with some Walmart or knockoff brand like everyone seems to be suggesting. Plus you actually get a company with a good warrenty should you somehow break one.
Gerber MP600 Multi-Plier - $46
^^ there's also a compact version of this that fits in a pocket a lot better. Called the MP400
^^ there's a version of this one that comes with a pocket clip that might be nice too
I've got both of these and used them for various things. They've held up well and I don't really have any complaints.
i think most of mine i got on amazon, but i do think the price has gone up a fair bit other the last few years for some reason.
That being said there is a black oxide one on there now for under £100
Or one of these and whatever knife you like.
I'm actually pretty fond of the Olight OPry
The pry bar works well and the 4mm bit retention of the inline driver is great, allowing it to work with most double sided and all regular 4mm bits. The other features don't see much use but all work pretty well.
Carried a Prybrid for a while too and think it's a pretty good, simple toolset that compliments a pliers based multitool well. It makes for a decent utility knife, so you won't need to resharpen your main blade as often. While it's perfectly fine for periodic use, I wouldn't recommend it if you were doing lots of real work with it as it's just not the most comfortable grip. The prybar function works alright most of the time for fairly simple stuff like popping open a can of paint, but isn't exactly great for harder tasks. Despite the nasil puller slot it's just not great at pulling nails. I ended up doing some light mods to mine in order to improve it's function, but it still fell out of rotation.
Right. After making these comments I went and read the entire stickied 2022 quick list on r/flashlight. Most of them double as usb-c power banks w onboard charging, it must be popular already.
But! most lights still confirm to a maglight-esque metallic tube form factor. This is good and well, fits well in the hand, but limits how many batteries can fit. This strikes me as odd when so many are either a foot long or have a huge, flared end and would never fit. In a jacket pocket, get your mind out of the gutter. So anyway I’m still thinking 8 cell magazine with one or two threaded attachment points, say for a flood and a LEP, and months worth of charge.
You said pliers were not a selling point, but I can highly recommend the swiss tech keychain pliers. They have a decent Phillips and flat head screwdriver, wire cutters and pliers.
This had become a necessity for me now. I lost them once and decided it was worth it to buy them again. I have tried different sizes from the most basic to the 22 tool design and I think the most basic set is the best.
I think it would serve you well if you pair it with the SAK Jetsetter.
Do you think this one would do the job?
Do the pins need to be compressed though? I thought they might have the ends mushroomed like they do with brass ones to keep them in place. Maybe a maker space could do that too or someone there might be able to help me.
Cool idea about getting blades like that. Maybe I could find an old Multi tool or used knife and get a blade from there.
Thanks again! :D
if he rides a motorbike, you may want to check the Knipex wrench set, it's currently $91 on amazon:
[ not a multitool per se, but very a very useful gift nonetheless ]
https://www.amazon.com/Knipex-00-20-72-V04-XS-Pliers-Pieces/dp/B09FW6VJVD/
( Knipex 00-20-72-V04 )
If you just want pliers for your EDC and don't need it to be "multi" (why reproduce the same tools over and over, that adds weight?), you could have a look at the Knipex Cobra XS.
I have both the old Surge, with the small bit holder, and the new Surge without. I would not recommend adding it. There is only the one bit for it and it just isn't all that useful.
Instead, get a Leatherman Bit Driver Extender and a 1" long 1/4" hex to 4mm hex adapter. That will allow you to use any 4mm hex Micro Bit. Micro Bits will let you work with whatever really small connectors you need.
This kit on Amazon will get you a great selection, along with compact cases for carrying them.
You can also get a cylindrical Micro Bit holder from Wiha that holds 14 Micro Bits. It's designed to go around the end of their Micro Bit Drivers, but it works well as a compact way of carrying a bunch of them.
The SwissTool ratchet set is good quality and works well. However, there are a lot of similar small ratchets that are at least as good. I carry an Ares 7040 and a Leatherman Bit Kit.
As someone who’s had both, go with the tacticlip. It is much more useful.
I have a small (10") Knipex 71-01-200 that goes right through it. A horseman recommenced that tool because horses have been known to get entangled. Here: https://www.amazon.com/KNIPEX-CoBolt-Compact-Cutter-7101200/dp/B000SOSC4Y/ref=pd_lpo_1?pd_rd_i=B000SOSC4Y&psc=1
Yeah, I have two (old and newer models). The stones are great and the package is nice, but it's the same price as an electric belt sharpener, and I'm skeptical on the value for most users
You said you love your P4, so here's an easy and relatively cheap mod to your existing tool.
It's designed for Leatheman's flat bits, but you can easily use a Leatherman bit extender or Ratchet Driver and some Wiha double ended bits instead.
Of course, you can always use the Free P4 as a T-Handle for the extender/ratchet driver without any modification...
I have a Q4 and like the overall package with its slim case and bit set, but besides the great feature of being a ratchet, it's not a very good multitool. A recommendation depends on your use-case, but if you want a ratchet, the best options are Leatherman with their ratchet driver add-on or the 711L model (ships from China). These can also be used in other tools with 1/4" drivers
The Leatherman Rebar is an excellent option for the price but doesn't support the ratchet add-ons without the Removable Bit Driver. The SOG Powerpint is great in a tiny form-factor. The Skeletool is often recommended, but note that the toolset is more limited, like the SOG Flash MT
Gerber make a Bladeless MP600 that fits your specs, but the LM Rebar is a higher quality tool IMO.
SOG Baton Q1 is discontinued and overpriced (was ~$30)
I carry the Victorinox Signature 58mm on keychain, which has a small pen. The 91mm Compact has a removable pen as well as the Swisscard
If you hunt and fish you might also consider something like the Havalon. I'm not a hunter or fisher myself, and if I was I would want a fixed blade for skinning etc. But there are some people who swear by them; I myself DO carry a folding utility knife, as well as a multi-tool, to have a replaceable blade to take the brunt of cutting nasty material, like carpeting, shingles, what have you. So something like the Havalon would give a person that replaceable blade option in addition to having some very useful tools, - pliers, a bit driver that will take full size bits. The price isn't bad if that would suit someone's needs.
Here's one that cost about $12 (CDN). https://www.amazon.ca/Multitool-Screwdriver-Keychain-Stainless-Survival/dp/B07K43XL35/ref=asc_df_B07K43XL35/?tag=googleshopc0c-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=459286591882&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=17830276390787364258&hvpone=&hvpt... Decent (not spectacular) quality. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/iLE3sAGAus0
A small toolbag will give you more functionality. For example, a locking pliers, pliers wrench, and screw removal pliers can tackle a much wider variety of tasks than any particular multitool. A tool sharpener is another useful piece alongside good shears/scissors. While the Surge may be able to fix your bike, so can a dedicated toolset—easier and smaller
It sounds like the Signal is a good choice for you since it's much lighter than the Surge and its emergency tools are useful (I'd add a glass breaker item somewhere in your car). For an unconventional rec, the Ruike LD51 has a large saw, tweezers, scissors, and glass breaker etc. for much less than comparable Victorinox products, and the saw is longer and better than any plier-based multitools I know
It is really cool and at a great price. The bit driver uses a spring catch (no magnet) that works well after a drop of oil. There's space for two more bits (maybe 3 w/ double sided Wiha), and I used a small piece of paracord in the bottom to stop them rattling. I love having an extra-sharp knife that can potentially be sterile (there's even a skeletool mod w/ scalpel holder), but it's not ideal for boxes since you'd need to change it often (it's thinner and sharper than utility blade), so I'd carry a knife or utility blade alongside it
Another blade that I always carry clipped to a belt loop is this small serrated hook from Itokey (there's another, cheaper version with ring instead of carabiner). Small, very sharp, and quick deploy w/ button and spring
Yeah I always carry a cheap workpro clip knife with me as well.
MTs with a built-in 1/4" driver include the Center Drive, many SOGs with the bit in-between the gears, and the Havalon Evolve. The Evolve is one of my favorite tools, being fairly close to the Skeletool in size/weight, having a bit driver with 4 bits onboard, and with the scalpel and strap cutter combo—you may need to carry a knife alongside it
This isn't available yet but check out the Gerber Dual Force. It may be too heavy for your use at 12oz, but it looks like a great alternative to the CenterDrive
I completely agree with you on using what you have.
But if I was say a carpenter and I turned any number of different headed screws on an hourly basis, honestly I would probably carry a compact bit changer like this Wera 051024 Kraftform Kompakt 25... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001HSNHM2?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
The way I use a multitool is to carry it when I don’t have easy access to dedicated tools. When I am out walking around, running errands, stuff away from my shop. Where it would save the effort of having to retrieve a tool from my truck or when it’s impractical carry a tool kit. But if I am in my shop, I wouldn’t consider using my multitool ever. Like ever. I Have better tools at an arms length in my shop. Really for me, and maybe not everyone of course, the value of a multitool is to have it on my person when I am not in a work situation but need to do an unexpected task. It I am expecting to do a task, I bring along a better tool for that purpose.
I think this is what you're looking for? https://www.amazon.com/Swiss-SwissTool-Wrench-Nylon-Pouch/dp/B0015RJ3C8/
Wiha makes some compact double sided bits that often get recommended for EDC:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01J92O13Q/
They don't come with a case or anything though.
The leatherman flat bits will work in most 1/4 hex drivers as well and are a different way to carry a compact bit set.
For what is worth, I have the Micra and the Style CS. While both are good, I prefer the former. It's just more useful all around. If you need the carabineer to hook it on a keyring you may want to consider using something like this.
Should've clarified i meant box cutters. Most replaceable blades sold here are box cutter blades in varying lengths and widths. 2 common sizes actually. Something like this Kutir Retractable Box Cutter Utility Knife - Easy Self Loading Zinc-Alloy Heavy Duty Carpet, Rope, Cardboard Comfortable Handle Knive, 4 Sharp Rust Proof Razor Snap-Off Blades Set - Metal Safety Lock https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J8Q3J9K/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_BSDNBENSY70MG8DHH9B9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Knipex actually does have a combination plier like you're looking for.
KNIPEX Tools - Needle-Nose Combination Pliers (0821145SBA) , Red https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0741GT383/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_ECZ82GA1WJ53DC631WC3
there's a couple in the shop near me, i'm actually debating heading down and grabbing one
I've always just had this tho: https://www.amazon.ca/Klein-Tools-46039SEN-Splicers-Free-Fall/dp/B003AXBJMC/ref=sr_1_13?crid=10FAWUBHH6LUC&keywords=klein+scissors+and+knife&qid=1647211523&sprefix=klein+scissors+and+knife%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-13
> i just need to find a good small bit set to go with it
I actually had previously already gotten this cheap set just to cut through the soft rubber and sliver off a small set-holder for myself. (just a bonus that the bits will all also work for anti-tampering cases, like one of my leathermans).
I cut a long row out of the top/green half of the container, leave the rest at home, and I filled the cut-off row with what I need for a bike (for my bike: 3, 4, 5mm hex) and some basics (a couple phillips/flat-heads).
Went down a bit of a mini-ratchet rabbit hole and found this gem by Ares that includes a static ¼" bit holder in the end of its handle (not pictured, but shown in customer photos): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BUJXQJ6
There's also a hero of a reviewer, Steve, who shows a helpful photo of this thing side by side with one of victorinox's iterations on the tool I first mentioned.
I picked up two of these a while ago. I’ve used them a few times, and they seem quite stout. A bit heavier than I expected.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B095SPMB96?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2_dt_b_product_details
Gerber has something you might like, but it's a little pricey.
Oof a Swiss champ is a monster.
I think you can find a SAK that fits the bill with all the configurations that they haves, EXCEPT I wouldn't consider the pliers of a SAK adequate pliers for MY needs (they might be fine for someone else though).
I carry a Leatherman Sidekick a lot--the only time I don't carry it is when I am carrying my Surge on my belt. I really like the size in my pocket. But it doesn't have a corkscrew, and that's on your must have list. In fact I don't know any Leatherman (Leathermen?) that do off the top of my head.
You might consider a SOG PowerLite. I don't own this, haven't held one, but I really like the size of it; it seems VERY pocketable, ever better than the Sidekick. I seriously considered it, but eventually decided that the tool set didn't suit my needs. I can't speak to the quality, not having encountered one, but I have had a SOG before and the pliers are excellent.
interesting, just got myself one of these to try clip & carry wave sheath
OP, this guy has the best answer.
There are some decent off brand multitools that are fairly inexpensive. Here is a good example: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B091Y5WCZ2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
The quality of this tool isn't as high as Leatherman, but it's still a very good tool for the price. For many, this is "good enough".
I got a Wave+ off of amazon that is silver and black. You know, in case you can't make up your mind.
I'd recommend a signal and a belt pouch. There's dozens of them on Amazon and the cheap leather ones are just as good as the gucci bullshit.
Here's a link as a suggestion for belt pouch. But my overall recommendation is for the signal. I use it at least 3 times a day in a bunch of functions as a machinist.
However. I will say it doesn't replace any stand alone tool.
It's not a perfect set of pliers.
Or a great knife.
Or the best screw driver.
But for something it's size that either is on my belt or my work back pack it does it's job well.
The fero rod is shit tho. I'd recommend finding some one with a 3d printer and printing out an upgrade that swaps put your Ferro rod for an extra flat bit you can carry in the tool.
If requested I would be willing to make the upgrade for you for only the cost of mailing it
Here are the links in question. Multitool Sheath for Belt, Leather EDC Pocket Organizer for Men, Leatherman Sheath with Pen Holder, Key Fob, Flashlight Sheath, EDC Leather Pouch (black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08JCP634V/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_S506718HJ1HX2NAHZFVR
Seems an odd choice for a toiletry bag, unless you're meaning something else. I feel like a Victorinox Nail Clip 580 would be more apropos, but if you are just looking to stash a Leatherman somewhere in your luggage, we've all been there.
It comes down to what tools are important to you. If the little cocktail fork is what intrigued you, then I'm afraid the Flair is the only MT I've seen with one. I recommend another tool of your choice and a titanium spork; they're not pricey and they weigh almost nothing.
Remove everything after B01N808Q5V and it'll work.
I got this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07KTVG5PS because it has a liner lock on the blade and it seems the others don't. Actual phillip and flathead tools are a plus.
Topeak hummer Has been my commuting tool.
No. However, the closest thing is this that you can still buy.
~~Why buy it once when you can buy it twice?~~
I grab some of the more unique chinesium multis as curiosity piece.
Like this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07ZQ62Q51
Full size pocket knife with some mini-pliers instead of pliers with a smaller knife.
I use this random 4mm ratchet driver for day to day smaller stuff: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07YBV9XLM/
Comes in handy since I do a lot of electronics stuff.
If you need something with some length, I guess this one might work?: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084RSSNWL
Anything more substantial just seems to go into regular screwdriver territory.
The only plier-based multitool I can recommend in that general size range is the Leatherman Style PS, but it represents some significant compromises too. There is no blade and the slotted driver will turn a Phillips but is not a Phillips driver.
My actual recommendation is that you downsize to a Victorinox Super Tinker, which will eliminate the small pliers, and then get the 5" (125mm) version of the Knipex Cobra Pliers to supplement it. The will give you a good set of small pliers to go with the solid tools on the Tinker.
How's it with this BO CC and this SS CC. I've never seen them before, just found them last week ?
Any Victorinox with a corkscrew and https://www.amazon.com/VICTORINOX-REPLACEMENT-PARTS-Mini-Screwdriver/dp/B00MXBMSE0/ref=sr_1_2?crid=D3826K2S2URG&dchild=1&keywords=victorinox+screwdriver&qid=1608753996&sprefix=victorinox+screwdrivwer%2Caps%2C200&sr=8-2
The Wave works, but too tiny if it's not in the Wave. Very easy to over torque if it's in the Wave.
I agree that this a cheap imitation tool. It looks like they are trying to make something similar to this Bear Grylls multitool that Gerber produced (which was basically a re-branded Gerber Suspension). I wouldn't trust it or the seller.
I have a Ganzo a bit on the heavy side but has been durable
The cobra pliers are awesome,, butbibwas referencing the pliers wrench, smallest of which is 5 inches long. Fully replaces the adjustable and offers more versatility as well.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I8N282O/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_awdb_btf_t1_r3FLFb0HT342S
Ironworker welder here The Crunch is my favorite. It’s a secret weapon when high up and u need a strong clamp. It holds 25 pounds of metal tightly. It’s a little expensive for my job, I’ve lost 2. I use the Irwin Vice Grip with knife now at work. My Crunch is in semi retirement.
Irwin tool Amazon link:
IRWIN VISE-GRIP Locking Multi-Pliers with Wire Cutter, 5", 1923454 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014UT2VCQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_XaP0DbYXMV5G8
The Bibury 21 in 1 multitool (Also goes under the names Wetols, and more recently, under the Mossy Oak names). Quality's decent, so long as you get a good one (I've had 1 out of 3 that was really gritty, and required disassembly to clean before it was tolerably loose), has an actual full bit driver head, no proprietary adapters needed (and it locks at 90 and 180 degrees), a really handy, easy to use locking/unlocking system that works for all the tools, accessible tools while the pliers are folded, and spring-assisted pliers (which is either a pro or a con, depending on how you like your multis), about the only thing it lacks is removable cutters. I've been beating on one for a little over a year now, no worse for wear, and has been used as a hammer, the pliers used to assist in bending thick metal frames, and loads of prying duty. The biggest downfall is they are rather bulky and heavy (A surge seems svelte in comparison), but they offer quite a lot for 20-24 bucks.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07QFZRJ5W/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Also this one it odd but inexpensive. I keep one in the glovebox of my work vehicle IRWIN VISE-GRIP Locking Multi-Pliers with Wire Cutter, 5 "https://www.amazon.com/VISE-GRIP-Locking-Multi-Pliers-Cutter-1923454/dp/B014UT2VCQ
I've got one from Nite-Ize. That ive been using for a few years. It doesn't technically have storage for both bit sets, only the one pocket in the back. But ive had the second bit set held in by the elastic in the front, and it hasn't ever fallen out... as for the extender, I wouldn't know... this is the one https://www.amazon.ca/Nite-FAMT-03-01-Holster-Stretch-Capability/dp/B003CVQZ44/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=leatherman+wave+sheath&qid=1595882041&sprefix=leatherman+wave+&sr=8-4
I recommend a combo: Get the Gerber Shard (honestly my favorite and most-used tool) and a good Swiss Army Knife, which you can easily find second-hand and they lose no quality. With those two things you'll have pretty much everything but pliers.
However, a few items are on sale at Leatherman right now and are just over your budget:
The Squirt is currently only $35: https://www.leatherman.com/squirt-ps4-22.html?dwvar_22_color=12&cgid=
Found this Rev on Amazon for only $40: https://www.amazon.com/Leatherman-Multitool-Stainless-Steel-Sheath/dp/B00SIL74A2/ref=sr_1_4?
I didn't realise what you were trying to do. For future reference these exist
Something like this has always served me well. Small enough to be unobtrusive, shaft long enough to reach into recessed holes, won't rip a hole in your pocket if you keep the Philips side out. I've found cheaper ones in a bucket at a hardware store before, too. The pocket clip is usually about useless, and sometimes the shaft starts to be kind of loose in the handle, but this size has been remarkably handy for me.
This holds my Surge, bit extender and bit kits. The two bit kits fit VERY snuggly into the small pouch between the main pouch and the belt clip. The bit extender fits in the two little straps along the main pouch.
I think the scissors on my leatherman are pretty sharp, but for something that specific and already having other tools, I'd rather get the proper scissors: https://www.amazon.com/Curved-Rounded-Facial-Hair-Scissors/dp/B072JT6KYS/
Cannot tell you how many times this has come in handy for me:
Get a belt pouch. They make a leather one that comes with a sharpener. Similar to this:
I have the same setup! It is amazing how much you can do with that bit set. Throw in a 4" adjustable and you are really in business!
It took a long time, but I finally had to replace my original sheath last year. I picked up this Gerber Sheath for my old 600 from Amazon for $10 and like it well enough. No complaints, does it's job and has stood up well for the last year.
I figured I'd try it out for $10 and if I didn't like it I wasn't out much. The back has molle straps and I was going to try to put it on, inline with my belt, but my belt is too wide to fit that way so I have kept it vertical with their band through the molle and my belt.
I love my Wave. Got it with the bit extender, leatherman leather case, and driver kit off of Amazon for about $104 US. Saves me having to carry 3 different screwdrivers when I do contract IT work. Super sharp blades too.
Comes up as $131US with UK shipping. Leatherman New Wave Multitool with Leather/Nylon Combination Sheath + Leatherman 42 Piece Tool Steel Bit Kit + Bit Driver Extension
They're 58% off on Amazon right now, which moves them from fucking absurd to just overpriced. I just ordered one, I'll see how it holds up. Gerber has been shit in recent years, though.