Large Leatherman-style multitools are popular, but classic Swiss Army Knife (SAK) pocketknife multitools can still serve as good, compact do-everything multitools.
When asked by Matt Buchanan at the 2008 Maker Faire whether a modern-day MacGyver would still use a SAK today, MacGyver TV series creator Lee Zlotoff:
- Reached into his pocket and pulled out a SAK with a built-in thumbdrive
- Said that he carries both a SAK and a Leatherman tool
- Speculated that the Leatherman was probably the next generation MacGyver tool
Instead of comparing specific brands and models, this article will explain the main considerations when selecting a multitool.
Full-sized Folding Pliers
The Leatherman revolution in multitools began with the first Leatherman PST (Pocket Survival Tool) which came with a pair of full-sized folding pliers. This increased the weight and bulk of the tool, but also its usefulness.
Pliers can serve as:
- hammer (only in an emergency)
- wire cutter
- wrench / spanner (only in an emergency as the bolt head can be rounded and spoiled)
- nail remover
- wire / sheet metal bender
Types and Brands of Multitools
The small SAK and folding-pliers Leatherman continue to be the two main types of multitools. The main consideration is utility (Leatherman) versus small size and weight (SAK).
The popularity of Leatherman-type multitools can be seen from the number of different models available from:
- Gerber
- SOG
- Kershaw
- CRKT
- Buck
- KutMaster
- Schrade
- Leatherman
SAK makers now also make Leatherman-type multitools:
- Victorinox (SwissTool)
- Wenger (SwissGrip, PocketGrip)
Mini Leatherman models (example: Leatherman Juice, Squirt) also exist with:
- Scissors or smaller pliers instead of full-sized pliers
- Knife blades smaller than a typical SAK
- Size and weight about the same as a SAK
Comfortable and Safe Pliers Grip
The original Leatherman's handles were infamous for cutting into the user's palms when the pliers were gripped hard. Newer designs have rounded edges to avoid such problems. Any modern multitool with such a basic design defect should be ignored.
There should also be a gap between the handles when the pliers handles are squeezed closed. Otherwise, the handles could painfully pinch the palm if any flesh is caught between the handles.
Cheap knockoffs are normally lacking in both areas.
Locking Tools
All tools (knife, screwdriver etc) should be lockable in the open position. This is for convenience as well as safety.
If not lockable, the tools should at least be held in place by springs like in a SAK. Cheap knockoffs are again notably lacking.
One-handed Opening and Tool Accessibility
Some, if not all, of the tools should be usable without first opening the pliers. More than a convenience, this can be useful in an emergency when speed can be crucial.
Some designs also allow single-handed opening of either the pliers or the other tools (especially the knife), or both. Again, this is a safety feature as during emergencies only one hand might be available.
Cheap knockoffs are unlikely to have such features. Surprisingly, some new models from premium brands don't have one-handed opening knives.
Tool Selection
Tools should be classified into "must have" and "nice to have" categories to aid in selection of the right multitool.
Some possible "must have" deal breakers:
- Phillips cross-head screwdriver (for computer technicians)
- Can opener (for campers)
- Large locking blade (for everyone)
- Quarter inch (1/4") socket for standard removable screwdriver bits (hex bit driver)
SOG Versus Leatherman Versus Gerber
SOG multitools have compound leverage pliers. The jaws are operated via gears, which provide additional leverage. This gives them more force compared to pliers of the same size. Some models also have assisted-opening (spring loaded) blades for quick blade deployment.
Leatherman manages to squeeze more tools than other brands, into one multitool. Another advantage is that the blade, file and saw are usually longer than those of similarly-sized multitools from other brands.
Gerber multitools are known for their flip-out one-hand-opening pliers.
Leatherman-type Compared with Swiss Army Knife
Whether SAK or Leatherman-type depends on whether or not full-sized pliers are required. If pliers are not required, a SAK remains a good (and lighter) choice. A SAK can also have a wider variety of specialized tools.
Aside from the obvious parameters of
- size
- weight
- steel quality and strength
- tool selection
safety and comfort issues (as discussed above) should be considered when selecting a multitool.
Resources
- Best Leatherman Multitools Compared
- Best Victorinox Swiss Army Knife
- Best Folding Knife Guide
- Multi-tool Review, by Joe Talmadge
- Illustrated reviews of new, classic and rare multitools at multitool.org
Yuen Kit Mun - Kit Mun is a self-confessed information junkie, reading an average of a book a week over the past two decades. His growing Internet ...
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