Tool Up – Five Handy Multi-tools
June 13, 2020
Sometimes you just need a tool quickly. Nothing fancy. A blade to cut something, maybe a screwdriver to change the batteries in something. Perhaps you’re at a BBQ (remember those?) and you need to open a beer but there is no opener handy. Maybe you just want to always be prepared to mend, open or adjust something. Like a real life MacGyver or something? Whatever your want, the world of multi-tools is here to serve you.
Back in the day the go-to multi-tool was the Swiss Army Knife, and indeed, this is still at the top of the pile for many. You can cut branches, open bottles, fend off wild beasts and all kinds of things with a Swiss Army Knife. You know, if you’re out in the wilderness. Not, say, Basingstoke.
The knife of the Swiss Army is not the only option though. Over recent years a huge industry has emerged, and within it there are all manner of clever, well-engineered, purpose-fit multi-tools for you to choose from. The choice is dizzying, which is why we’ve taken the legwork out of it for you by picking five of the best.
1) Victorinox ‘Huntsman’ Swiss Army Knife
The Huntsman is perhaps the most widely known Swiss Army Knife. For many, this is the perfect representation of the iconic pocket tool. It’s loaded with features and functions such as a knife, a saw, a file, a corkscrew and of course, a toothpick and tweezers! This is, for many, the best allrounder, a pocket tool that will be useful in more situations than not. Plus, it’s a triumph of engineering, and will last a lifetime. Not bad for less than thirty quid.
2) 30-in-1 Card Tool
Stuff like this makes us love engineering. On paper, this is just a credit card-sized bit of metal with some holes in it. Look closer though, and it’s so much more than that. It’s a screwdriver, a blade, a rule, a bottle opener, a protractor, a spanner and so much more. Thirty things in fact, hence the name. And yet, despite all its functions, it fits into your wallet alongside your debit and credit cards. This is one of those things you’ll soon be very, very glad you have on your person.
3) Leatherman Multi-Tool
The Swiss Army Knife may be the go-to in the pocket knife world, but when it comes to a proper tool, you can’t get much better than a Leatherman. This company has made a name for itself by creating incredibly tough, durable pocket tools that can take the same abuse as the ‘proper’ tools back in the garage. This example, stunning in black oxide, is first and foremost a sturdy pair of pliers and wire cutters. Then, in the ‘handle’ you’ll find the usual blades, saws and screwdrivers. All cast in strengthened stainless steel for maximum durability.
4) Rolson Pocket Knife
Sometimes you just need a blade. There’s a loose thread, a stray wire, a box that needs to be opened, some rope that needs to be cut. Whatever it may be, not having a cutting tool to hand can leave you stumped. That’s why this little pocket knife from Rolson is ideal. It’s slimline, so fits in your pocket or on your belt without issue, it features two blades – one a traditional fixed knife, the other a changeable ‘stanley’ style. It has a locking mechanism for safety, and it features wood inserts to give it a classy look. And you should always look classy when opening packages or cutting rope.
5) True Utility Fish Face
Maybe you don’t want a pocket tool or a full on blade to be about your person? Maybe you want something a bit more discreet, but no less useful. Happily, that’s exactly what the True Utility Fish Face tool offers. It simply clips onto your keys and is no more intrusive than a car key. Yet despite its diminutive size, it packs a small blade for cutting string/wire, there is a screwdriver, a bottle opener, a small spanner, a spoke spanner (great for cyclists) and even a pry function. And it’ll cost you less than a tenner. Really, it would be rude not to.
