Searching for an entry-level multitool can be challenging. It’s impossible to go through each brand and model, so I decided to help you by coming up with seven reviews of the best pocket multi tool that you may consider.
You can speed up your search because I’m presenting the bestsellers that many users have found useful.
Here Are The Best Pocket Multi-Tools:
Product | Details | ||
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1. Leatherman Wingman Multitool | Top Pick |
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2. Leatherman Sidekick Multitool Pocket Size |
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3. Pro Master 15-in-1 Portable Pocket Multifunctional Multi Tool |
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4. Rose Kuli 7-inch Portable Multipurpose Multitool Multifunctional Pocket Mini Tools |
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5. Gerber Suspension-NXT Multi-Tool |
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6. RoverTac 12-in-1 Multi-Tool with Safety Locking |
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7. Leatherman Rev Multitool Pocket Size |
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1. Leatherman Wingman Multitool — Best Small Multi-Tool
I bought the Leatherman Wingman Multi-Tool because it’s budget-friendly. It also has spring-loaded pliers with nicely lined up jaws and minute teeth. I use them extensively in my everyday tasks like manipulating bolts, getting into tight spaces, and pulling nails and staples.
A Wingman is a pliers-centric tool, and it doesn’t disappoint me. The handy wire cutters don’t close all the way, but they do an excellent job of cutting wires efficiently.
The ruler at the backside of the file is useless because it’s less than an inch in length. Also, the Wingman is a bit hefty, although when compared with other multitools, it has fewer tools.
Specs
- 14-in-1
- 25-year warranty
- 8 inches length
- 7 oz weight
- 6 inches blade length
Pros
- One-hand opening with a locking blade
- Lightweight, compact, and removable pocket clip
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Heavier than the other Leatherman tools but with fewer tools
- Inefficient half-length file
- Wire cutters are for small wires only
If you need an affordable multitool that you can clip on your pocket, you can opt for Leatherman Wingman. It gets the job done around the house, in camping sites, and at work.
It’s an everyday carry tool because it’s reliable, rugged, and easy to use. It’s an excellent tool if you need a spring-loaded plier, scissor, and secure access knife within your price point.
Overall Rating – 4.7
2. Leatherman Sidekick Multitool Pocket Size
I like the Leatherman Sidekick Multitool because it provides an excellent set of essential tools at an affordable price. It doesn’t have any interchangeable instruments or high-end finishes that I usually find in more costly gears. Nevertheless, it uses sturdy materials and has quality construction. It provides real value for my money.
Some tools included in the Sidekick are less useful than the others. For instance, the tiny ruler doesn’t have much use. The wire cutters have a gap, so I can’t get a clean cut through threaded or thin wires. Its design is for people needing an entry-level pocket-sized multitool.
Specs
- 14-in-1
- 25-year warranty
- 7 oz weight
- 6 inches blade length
- 8 inches in length
Pros
- One-hand access
- Rounded handles for secure gripping of the spring-action jaws
- Comfortable to use
- Compact, lightweight, and with lanyard ring
Cons
- Larger and heftier
- Lack of locking mechanisms for other tools except for the saw and blade
If you’re searching for an entry-level and affordable multitool, you may try the Leatherman Sidekick. It’s well-built and feels sturdy. The knife blade deploys fluidly, and it presents the pliers smoothly if you open the handles.
It doesn’t have the high-end look and feel, but at its price point, the Leatherman Sidekick is an excellent choice for first-time buyers of multitools.
Overall Rating – 4.7
3. Pro Master 15-in-1 Portable Pocket Multifunctional Multi Tool
I like the ProMaster 15-in-1 Multitool because I can easily and quickly finish my tasks with one tool. It’s efficient and high quality that works.
I prefer it because I don’t have to waste time searching for the right gear in my toolbox anymore. It’s reliable and handy that I can carry anywhere. It uses 420 carbon steel, so I know that it has a robust construction.
The Pro Master 15-in-1 is hefty at 8.2 oz, and its wire cutter is quite inefficient in cutting fishing lines. It is troublesome to open once twine gets stuck in the cutter.
Specs
- 15-in-1
- 90-day double your money-back guarantee, no questions asked
- 2 oz weight
- 6 inches in length
- 25-year warranty
Pros
- Heavy-duty and premium multi-function for the outdoorsman and soldier
- Portable and affordable
- Includes sheath and belt strap holder
- Ergonomic and comfortable handle
Cons
- Useless fish scaler
- Heavier than other multitools
- Inefficient wire cutter for fishing line and twine
Pro-Master 15-in-1 Multitool is robust and efficient, so you’ll discover it is valuable even for intricate jobs. It has 420 carbon stainless steel construction with 15 easy to access and integrated tools.
You won’t find each gear cumbersome to open because it has a spring-loaded mechanism. It easily snaps and folds in its compact pocket size. You can use it in your hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping trips.
Overall Rating – 4.6
4. Rose Kuli 7-inch Portable Multipurpose Multitool Multifunctional Pocket Mini Tools
I like this Rose Kuli 7-inch Multi-Tool because it is suitable for my camping trips. It has versatile options, and I don’t have to bring my enormous toolbox every time.
It is a stainless steel gear that also includes a carrying pouch. It is also ideal for odd jobs around the house and even on fishing trips. It has a very durable and portable ax for effortless cutting of branches for campfires.
I also like its emergency hammer for self-defense or for breaking a stone during hunting adventures. It is heavy to bring for hiking trips, and the nylon pouch is of low quality.
Specs
- 14-in-1
- 7 inches in length
- 7 oz weight
Pros
- Easy to carry multitool in a nylon pouch with velcro flap
- Portable and convenient to use
Cons
- Low-quality pouch
- Ax needs sharpening upon unboxing
- Hefty for hiking
If you prefer a versatile yet inexpensive multitool, you can try Rose Kuli 7-inch Multipurpose Multitool. You can use it for your outdoor activities that need an ax or hammer.
It is easy to carry because you can secure the nylon pouch safely to your belt. You can enjoy its various gears if you need something for smaller jobs.
Overall Rating – 4.5
5. Gerber Suspension-NXT Multi-Tool
The Gerber Suspension NXT has 15 tools and is an improvement of the prior Suspension model. I like the single-loaded pliers because they’re needle nose with a bolt gripper and a straight part. It also has wire cutters and strippers that are useful around the house.
The knife has a combo blade with a level blade on one half and a serrated on another. I find the scissors valuable even if they’re tiny. The metal clip is flimsy and won’t be useful after some time.
Specs
- 4 oz weight
- 25 inches blade length
- 25 inches total length, 4.25 inches when folded
- 15-in-1
- Limited lifetime warranty
Pros
- A slim design ideal for EDC use
- Spring-loaded jaws, all locking, and outboard tools.
- Sturdy clip for the pocket or belt
Cons
- Flimsy metal clip
- Very tight hinges
If you’re searching for a medium-duty multitool, you may find a gem in Gerber Suspension NXT. It appeals to the EDC user because it’s smaller, lighter, and has more tools than the other multitools in the market. It’s an excellent EDC because it has general-purpose gears at a reasonable weight.
Overall Rating – 4.5
6. RoverTac 12-in-1 Multi-Tool with Safety Locking
RoverTac 12-in-1 Multitool is an affordable gear that I can use in emergencies. It has a total of 12 standard tools like a saw, long nose pliers, and wire cutters. It’s excellent equipment that I carry around at work, in the house, and on outdoor trips.
I like that it has a nylon pouch that I can attach on my belt. My only complaint is that it isn’t lightweight, but I get my money’s worth because it has outstanding performance.
Specs
- Lifetime warranty
- 12-in-1
- 2 oz weight
- 3 inches total length, 4.1 inches when folded
Pros
- Durable and sturdy
- Corrosion-resistant and rust-proof
- Easy to carry in a heavy-duty nylon pouch
Cons
- Non-ergonomic design
- Heavy and bulky
If you’re looking for an entry-level and inexpensive multitool, you can opt for Rovertac 12-in-1 Multi Tool. It has excellent specs and features.
You can take advantage of the 12 convenient and robust tools that you can use for your various needs and requirements. It has needle-nose pliers as its central gear. You can use it in tight and narrow spaces because of its compact design.
Overall Rating – 4.6
7. Leatherman Rev Multitool Pocket Size
I also have a Leatherman Rev that’s inexpensive but of reasonable quality. It’s not the best multitool, but it’s a full-sized tool that contains gears that I need for everyday living.
It doesn’t have smooth polishing like the more expensive Leatherman multitools but gets the job done. It has outstanding construction with an excellent mix of essential tools. I notice, however, that it doesn’t include a pair of scissors.
Specs
- 4 oz weight
- 25-year limited warranty
- 5 inches total length, 3.8 inches when folded
- 14-in-1
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Outside access tools for quick and effortless use
- All-locking blades for confident cutting
Cons
- Doesn’t include scissors
- Tacky pocket clip
- Difficult to open the knife using one hand
You can have your first multitool without breaking the bank. Leatherman Rev is a budget-friendly product with a satisfactory and useful mix of essential tools. You’ll like the pliers and knife because they work well. It’s an inexpensive tool for an EDC enthusiast, outdoorsman, or handyman.
Overall Rating – 4.6
Buying Guide For The Best Pocket Multi-Tool
It’s good to know the best brands and models of multitools, but it’s better to understand some crucial information about them first.
Types Of Multi Tools
Generally, a multitool has three categories: full size, mini, and keychain.
Full-Size Multi-Tools
A full-size multitool has full-featured gears for several tasks. It’s a toolbox-worthy gear that usually comes with a holster that you can attach to your belt.
Mini Multi-Tools
A mini multitool, on the other hand, is a more portable and pared-down version of its full-size counterpart. It contains highly specialized gears, but on a smaller variant of the essentials. It is diminutive and can be unnoticeable in your jeans pocket.
Keychain Multitools
They are keychains with some functionalities like a bottle opener. They cannot replace the tools that you may carry, and they contain only minimal gears.
What You Should Know Before Purchasing The Best Small Multi-Tool
Multitools are highly useful and very functional, but you have to know their advantages and limitations. You have to be aware when you can and can’t use them.
You can use the following information in buying them to ensure that you get satisfaction in what you purchase:
Multitools Can’t Substitute for Real Tools
They aren’t ideal for all tasks because some situations require full-sized tools. For instance, wire cutters and scissors have to be on their full sizes to cut through hard materials. You have to bring some single-use gear to your work or outdoor trips.
Knife Blades Are For Minor Tasks
You can do a lot of things with the knife blade, but you can’t expect it to be as robust as a hunting knife. It can be useful for EDC jobs, and it requires frequent repair and sharpening.
Smaller Isn’t Better
Small-sized tools break often, and they rust quickly. Moreover, they aren’t as efficient as the single, heavy-duty tool.
What To Look For In A Multi-Tool
You may discover that it is troublesome to choose a multi-tool because you have hundreds of available options. If you want to buy one, you have to pay attention to the following factors.
Tool Components
You have to know the tool parts of the multi tool that you want to buy. Here are some of the components that you can consider:
- Knife
- Pliers
- Scissors
- Screwdriver
- Saw
- Tweezers
If you use knives often, you can invest in a single-use knife that’s separate from your multi-tool. A straight edge knife is excellent for general cutting and filleting. A serrated one, on the other hand, can cut through fiber materials and ropes easily.
If you need pliers, you have to know the type that you need. Pliers can hold, compress, or bend objects. Tradespeople need needle-nose pliers for repositioning, bending, and cutting wires. A screwdriver also has several kinds and sizes, so you have to determine what you need.
Quality
Quality is also an essential consideration because you will only waste your money if the product is not functional. Your multitool must have redeemable attributes that you can use on several occasions without fail.
Additional Features
If it is your first multitool, you have to ensure that it has the following features.
- Sheaths — You have to get a sheath to conceal and protect your multitool. It has to use nylon or leather material because it does not tear quickly. Nylon is waterproof, and campers prefer it because it lasts a long time.
- One-handed Mechanism — A one-handed mechanism is a necessity, especially if you frequently go camping. The multitool allows you to use a specific gear without manually opening each tool.
- Locking Feature — A locking feature ensures that each component stays in its place while you are using it. It prevents the other parts from pivoting back to damage your hand.
- Handle Scales — Handle scales ensure that you have a firm and comfortable grip. They help you use your multitool even in wet conditions.
Design
The multitool with an excellent design has a sleek appearance and functioning components. You can use all elements to finish your everyday tasks. Its composition ensures that each part remains stable if you’re using it.
Weight
Weight can vary, depending on the number of tools your multitool has. However, it will not exceed 12 ounces and will average between five and six ounces. Titanium is a lighter option, but many multitools use stainless steel.
Final Thoughts
As a first time user of a multitool, you may have experienced some hardships in choosing the best one to meet your requirements. This review and buying guide aims to help you make the right decision. I lined up seven of the best selling multitools that multitool enthusiasts use as their chosen EDC tool.
If you’re still finding it troublesome to choose the most appropriate multitool in the list, you may prefer the Leatherman Wingman. It is an excellent product if you need spring-loaded pliers as a central instrument.
It does not disappoint me every time I use it, so I am recommending it. You also get a 25-year limited warranty if you decide to buy it. It is an affordable multitool that you can use to finish a task.