Wirecutter supports readers. When you make a purchase through a link on our website, we may receive affiliate commissions. learn more.
After another round of testing, we recommended three other multi-function tools: Leatherman Signal, Leatherman Free T4 and Gerber Armbar Drive.
After another round of testing, we recommended three other multi-function tools: Leatherman Signal, Leatherman Free T4 and Gerber Armbar Drive.
Signal has an excellent set of tools, many of which are used for camping and emergency preparedness. Leatherman Free T4 and Gerber Armbar Drive are smaller models without pliers. Free T4 is the more refined of the two, but Gerber is very compact, easy to use, and generally cheaper. We will provide a complete update with more information soon.
Carrying multifunctional tools opens up the whole world of problem solving and empowerment. It's like putting a flashlight in your pocket: if you don't bring it, you can't imagine using it, but once you have it, you will use it seven times a day. We spent three weeks repairing fences and cutting hay bales in rural New Hampshire with 19 multifunctional tools. Leatherman Skeletool CX is the best tool for most jobs. Its minimal lineup of exquisite necessities and stylish and lightweight design is easier to use and carry, because it is not burdened by a large number of rarely used tools. In fact, Skeletool's pliers, knives, screwdrivers and corkscrews are everything we need to deal with small problems and continue our day.
This lightweight and thin multifunctional tool focuses on the use of sophisticated necessities-such as precise and comfortable pliers-and has no fillers. It is convenient to carry around and is durable.
Among all the multi-function tools we have tried, Skeletool CX is the tool we have been using for a long time after the test. Its knife can be smoothly deployed and locked with one hand-no need to open the pliers first-its high-quality 154CM blade steel maintains a longer edge than most multi-tool blades. Other multi-function tools are very heavy and need to be carried in a belt sheath, but the lighter and thinner Skeletool can be comfortably placed in a pocket. It can also be clipped to a belt or backpack with a pocket clip or carabiner, and can double as a convenient bottle opener. CX's pliers can be easily deployed, pull out small pieces precisely, and are comfortable to hold due to the asymmetrical handle. Its two Phillips screwdrivers and two flat-head screwdrivers can handle the most common screws. It has a 25-year warranty, but it's sturdy and durable, and we will be surprised if you need to use it-other Leathermans that we have owned and used for more than ten years have been perfectly supported.
Closed size: 4⅛ x 1¼ x ½ inches Weight: 5.2 ounces Blade length: 2⅝ inches Included tools: needle-nose pliers, ordinary pliers, hard wire pliers, wire cutters, bottle opener, Phillips screwdriver (2), flat screwdriver (2) ), Carabiner
This Skeletool has the same excellent design as the CX, but the blade steel is not as good, the pivot is not as smooth, and the knife part has serrations, making it more difficult to sharpen.
*At the time of publication, the price was $60.
If there is no Skeletool CX, we also like the regular Leatherman Skeletool. It has the same design as the CX, so it is lightweight, easy to carry, and contains only the most important tools. The disadvantage is that the quality of the blade steel is lower, and the edge part is jagged, which is more difficult to sharpen. We also found that the pivot point is tighter and therefore more difficult to open and close. It costs less than CX, but over time, we think the benefits of better tools are worth it.
Closed size: 4⅛ x 1¼ x ½ inches Weight: 5.2 ounces Blade length: 2⅝ inches Included tools: needle-nose pliers, ordinary pliers, hard wire pliers, wire cutters, bottle opener, Phillips screwdriver (2), flat screwdriver (2) ), Carabiner
Free P2 has a larger selection of tools than Skeletool, including scissors and bag openers, but the biggest difference is that all tools including pliers can be deployed with one hand.
For larger but very easy-to-use multi-function tools, we recommend Leatherman Free P2. The Free P2 released in 2019 is a new design of Leatherman; when the handle is closed, you can access and open all tools with one hand. It is unique in the multi-tool world. You can even unfold the pliers with one hand, just flip your wrist. After we tested Free P2 for a few weeks, other full-scale multi-function tools, such as the classic Wave+, started to feel clumsy and difficult to open. Free P2 is 2.5 ounces heavier than Skeletool, but it has a slim and streamlined design and comes with a pocket clip. Although it has more weight, we have never found it bulky or inconvenient to carry.
Closed size: 4 x 1½ x ⅝ inches. Weight: 7.5 ounces. Blade length: 2⅝ inches. Tools included: needle-nose pliers, ordinary pliers, replaceable wire cutters, replaceable hard wire pliers, voltage connectors, wire strippers, Knife, scissors, bag opener, awl, can opener, bottle opener, wood/metal file, Phillips screwdriver, medium slotted screwdriver, small slotted screwdriver, extra-small slotted screwdriver, pry tool, ruler
This tool is known for its sturdy gear pliers and ability to accept standard 1-inch screwdriver bits, but it is bulky and lacks the accuracy of Leatherman tools.
*At the time of publication, the price was $66.
SOG PowerAccess Deluxe is another full-size multifunctional tool, but this tool focuses on pliers and screwdrivers. The central pivot point is geared, which increases the power of the pliers and wire cutters, and the tool can be opened with one hand. With this extra strength, this multi-function tool does the best at dealing with rusty and stuck bolts. It can easily cut wires, although the cut on a heavy sheep fence will dent its jaw (prove no What can really replace wire cutters). SOG has a saw and two blades and can accept standard 1-inch screwdriver bits. One disadvantage is that deploying a single tool on this SOG model is much more difficult than deploying on the smaller Leatherman Free P2.
Closed size: 4½ x 1 7/16 x 13/16 inches Weight: 8.8 ounces Blade length: 2 13/16 inches Included tools: 1/4 inch screwdriver, awl, serrated knife, bottle opener, can opener, chisel , Three-sided file, small slotted screwdriver, medium slotted screwdriver, pliers, needle-nose pliers, 1/4 inch drill, precision screwdriver, protractor, ruler, wire cutter, hard wire cutter, saw
Dime's pliers, bottle openers and convenient clamshell package openers are surprisingly capable of being used in such a small and cheap package.
*At the time of publication, the price was $20.
The Gerber Dime is smaller than the Bic lighter, but it is powerful and satisfactory to use. Designed to connect to a key ring, it contains a variety of useful tools, including scissors, pliers, corkscrew, a knife, two screwdrivers, and a flip knife (used to safely cut retail packaging). Dime has some nice touches-there is an externally mounted corkscrew (such as Skeletool), precise jaws, usually less than $20, and a variety of cool colors (black, gray, green, purple, and red) ). But the blade will not lock because its size is a typical tool, and its pliers are better than those made from the actual tweezers it contains.
Closing size: 2¾ x 13/16 x ½ inches Weight: 2.3 ounces Blade length: 1⅜ inches Included tools: needle-nose pliers, ordinary pliers, wire cutters, tweezers, bottle openers, knives, flippers, scissors, flat screwdrivers, Phillips screwdriver, screwdriver, fine file, lanyard loop
This lightweight and thin multifunctional tool focuses on the use of sophisticated necessities-such as precise and comfortable pliers-and has no fillers. It is convenient to carry around and is durable.
This Skeletool has the same excellent design as the CX, but the blade steel is not as good, the pivot is not as smooth, and the knife part has serrations, making it more difficult to sharpen.
*At the time of publication, the price was $60.
Free P2 has a larger selection of tools than Skeletool, including scissors and bag openers, but the biggest difference is that all tools including pliers can be deployed with one hand.
This tool is known for its sturdy gear pliers and ability to accept standard 1-inch screwdriver bits, but it is bulky and lacks the accuracy of Leatherman tools.
*At the time of publication, the price was $66.
Dime's pliers, bottle openers and convenient clamshell package openers are surprisingly capable of being used in such a small and cheap package.
*At the time of publication, the price was $20.
Since 2007, I have been reviewing tools and construction equipment and have worked in the high-end residential construction field for ten years, first as a carpenter, then as a foreman and site supervisor. I also researched and compiled Wirecutter's guide to the best pocket knives and best outdoor knives, which gave me a good understanding of the potential quality issues of blade steel and knives.
In addition to my own experience, I also corresponded with Tony Sculimbrene, who reviewed the knives and EDC equipment on GearJunkie, AllOutdoor.com, and his own website Everyday Commentary (which he has been running since 2011). Regarding the issue of blade retention and performance, I referred to the comprehensive blade test data published by Peter Colligan of the Cedric & Ada Tool Review YouTube channel.
This guide also benefits from the additional input of Harry Sawyers, Wirecutter's senior editor and author of our previous multi-tool guide. Harry is a long-time user of multiple tools. As a backpacker and Eagle Scout, he is familiar with these products, and he has always maintained his professional knowledge as a reporter and has more than ten years of tool reporting experience.
Multifunctional tools are as useful in a kitchen drawer as in a glove box, back pocket, or connected to a commuter bag or hiking backpack. A good multifunctional tool can save you time and make things easier. When you can quickly solve small problems without looking for any other tools-such as unpacking, removing debris, or tightening a set of auxiliary wheels. We believe that being able to do this and continue to do things can improve your overall quality of life.
Even in more advanced home projects, multi-functional tools can save additional projects to the basement multiple times. Let's say you start painting the room and gradually realize that you need a small flat-head screwdriver to remove the socket cover. Or, you may have replaced the battery in the smoke alarm on a ladder and found that one of the fixing screws needs to be tightened slightly. A well-equipped multifunctional tool can solve thousands of problems on-site.
Sculimbrene tells us that there are three ways to look at multifunctional tools: Is it a handbag, a car, or an adventure portable toolbox? Or is it an EDC thing for general utility tasks? "We want a proposal that can satisfy all three. We need to strike a delicate balance between weight, function and size, and pay attention to the following details:
Pliers-based: As Sculimbrene tells us, the three main types of multifunctional tools are pliers-based, knife-based, and all-in-one multifunctional tools (such as Gerber Shard). We prefer pliers-based pliers, which provide the most complete functionality and usually have blades locked in the open position, thus limiting the possibility of injury. They are the largest of the three styles, but many styles can be placed in a pocket or hung on a keychain. The pliers themselves opened up a whole world of mending and repairing. Take a look at the list of tasks we have done with them in the past three days.
Knife-type and integrated multi-function tools are usually easier to carry than clamp-type models, but neither of them have the functions of pliers and wire cutters. Knife-based tools such as Swiss Army Knives usually do not have a locking blade, and these tools are difficult to reach with the usually small nail notches. A one-piece tool is sized to fit a key chain, and is actually only suitable for the most minor tasks.
External knives: As Sculimbrene said, "The knives must be external, otherwise the design will fail because they are the most commonly used tools." The term "external mounting" means that you can deploy the blade immediately without having to unfold the pliers handle first. This is a two-handed (and sometimes awkward) process on most models. One hand is much better, because what you want to cut is usually already in your other hand.
Essential tools: Our philosophy is that multi-purpose tools should be used as little as possible, so that they can be lighter and easier to carry around. After considering our own experience and listening to Sculimbrene’s opinion, we believe that the necessities other than pliers are a straight-edged knife-which means that any tool that meets the TSA standards, such as Leatherman Style PS, is not included. Our list-bottle opener, and two screwdrivers (cross screwdriver and flat screwdriver). In addition to these essentials, there are some useful but not necessary tools: scissors, carabiner (for quick and safe storage options), and flip openers. The last item is a small angle or hooked knife with a blunt front edge, which is very effective and useful for cutting plastic clamshell packaging. Sculimbrene wrote: "Clamshells are everywhere, and sometimes the blade is not ideal. It can pierce the contents, damage them, or worse, slip off one side and [injure] your hand." (We Several close calls have been made in this way.)
Not too many fillers: we want to avoid multi-tools with a large number of rarely used tools. Saws, files, can openers and awls are all common, but we don't think they are important for daily use. Serrated blades are usually common, but they are difficult to sharpen and cut cleanly. These additional features usually only increase the weight and volume of the tool, but they do have their uses, so if you know you need them, we recommend that you use a fully functional multi-function tool.
Cost: We do not set a cap on the price of the tools we recommend. We think a good multi-function tool is a lifetime purchase, and we have some that we have been using almost every day for nearly 15 years. Well-known manufacturers have the same view: Gerber and SOG both have lifetime warranties, while Leatherman has a 25-year warranty. So, with this in mind, we found that higher-cost tools—with smooth pivot points, precision-machined moving parts, and high-quality steel—are well worth the investment.
We researched nearly 100 multifunctional tools and decided to test 19 of them. We selected multiple models from the three major pliers-type multi-tool manufacturers; Leatherman, SOG, and Gerber. In addition, we also looked at other acclaimed models from Victorinox, DeWalt and Ganzo. We also tested a fairly versatile multi-function tool under $20 to see what it offers (spoiler alert: not much). The two models we saw are multifunctional tools the size of a smaller keychain.
Out of the box, we thoroughly inspected each multi-function tool to look for general quality issues. How easy is the tool to fold and unfold? Are the various tools accessible? How troublesome is it to deploy them? Is the handle of the pliers comfortable? In most cases, the blades and accessories are locked in the open position, so we investigated the convenience and strength of the lock. One of the most important evidence is the uniformity of resistance when unfolding the pliers. Our experience is that loose, loose hinges out of the box will only get worse over time.
We carried the more successful multifunctional tools in three weeks and used them as best we could. They have been very busy: in the past three days, we used multi-tool pliers to fit the old windshield to its track (and used pliers to remove the trash on the track), rescued the bicycle tire valve, and removed some stuck Lego bricks, pick up a dirty fish tank filter (I really don’t want to touch that), straighten the wick on the candle, remove the two pieces, unscrew a broken bulb from the lamp (unplug of course) , And put the thermometer in the hot milk pot when making yogurt. The test was carried out in rural New Hampshire, so these tools were also useful in repairing some fences and cutting twine on bundles of hay.
This lightweight and thin multifunctional tool focuses on the use of sophisticated necessities-such as precise and comfortable pliers-and has no fillers. It is convenient to carry around and is durable.
After spending three weeks testing 19 multi-function tools, we found that the best is obviously Leatherman Skeletool CX. It has only the most basic items, and its minimalist approach makes it the thinnest, lightest, and most portable multifunctional tool. The blades of external knives last longer than standard Leatherman blades, and other tools—screwdrivers, pliers, and bottle openers mounted in carabiner clips—are fast, powerful, and convenient. Its asymmetrical handle design creates a curved grip, as comfortable as using pliers, a knife or a screwdriver. The tool can be used for many years and has a 25-year warranty-which is also a good thing because it is not cheap.
Skeletool CX only provides the most basic tools, nothing more. Sculimbrene wrote in GearJunkie's multi-tool operation that after carrying Skeletool for seven years, "I never wished it had more tools." Our experience is the same. In a few months of use, Skeletool is not enough. In the comments, Peter Colligan of Cedric & Ada said it "really one of the best EDC products you can get."
The slender Skeletool pliers are smaller than the pliers on most multi-tools, but they are large enough to comfortably cover a ½-inch bolt. For larger bolts, we will use adjustable pliers, locking pliers or wrenches anyway. The handle can be easily deployed and is comfortable to hold. It is suitable for all kinds of small and fast projects made by multi-function tools.
The 154CM steel of this knife is a high-quality blade steel that maintains a longer blade than the 420HC used by Leatherman on Free P2 and regular Skeletool. Colligan conducted extensive blade steel edge retention testing, and there is a video that directly compares Leatherman's two steels. In his test, he was able to cut 150 times on the hemp rope with a 154 cm blade before he could stop cutting the paper. In the same test, he only cut 60 knives with a 420HC blade. In a comment on Skeletool CX, he said, "You did notice the extra edge retention... it lasted longer than my other Leatherman knives."
We like that the blades on the CX have straight edges instead of the partial jaggedness you see on regular Skeletool or Free P2. Serrations make the cut rougher and harder to sharpen. Sculimbrene wrote on his website: "I don't like sawtooth. I didn't do enough rope cutting tasks to make the sawtooth worthy of the sharpening trouble they caused." While researching for our knife guide, the famous review site BladeReviews Dan Policastro tells us, "If you keep a flat blade knife, you will never miss the serration." In our own tests, we cut a lot of sisal packing rope, and the flat blade is as good as the serrated blade.
The blade deployment on the CX is the best of all multifunctional tools. It does not pop or bounce like a well-made knife, but it is easy to buy with your thumb and open it with one hand, with even resistance. Most multifunctional tools require two hands, and even one-handed designs are not as simple as Skeletool CX (with one exception-Leatherman Free P2).
Skeletool's screwdriver is different from most multifunctional tools. CX uses a drill bit holder at the end of a handle instead of a separate screwdriver. It is equipped with two double-sided drill bits, a Philips and a flat surface. The drill you use is locked in place by a small lever release, while the other drills are stored under a slightly tightened frame in the handle. We suspect that any of them will fail. If you need more options, Leatherman sells a complete drill set compatible with CX.
The carabiner and pocket clip in the other handle provide multiple options for carrying Skeletool CX: As explained in Colligan’s review, the carabiner can be clipped to the belt loop, or hung on the backpack (or even on the backpack) Nails in the workshop). The pocket clip has a nice spring and always works as expected. We are satisfied with the pocket clip we carry around, but in the project, it is convenient to use the carabiner like Colligan, instead of putting the CX back in our pocket or putting it down.
The carabiner clip has a dual function as a corkscrew, which is better than the corkscrew you will find on most multifunctional tools. It is faster because the clip is integrated at the end of the handle, so there is no need to deploy the tool or open the pliers to get the corkscrew like almost all other multi-tools. This seems like a small point, but it’s good to grab a bottle and be able to open it on the spot, instead of having to put it down, unfold the corkscrew, open the bottle, put it back, fold the corkscrew back into the tool , Finally took a sip from the bottle again. It is also easier to use than competitors'-most of them can be folded out of the tool, so they only have the thickness of a blade, and they need to pry open multiple times to pry open the bottle cap. The CX bottle opener is wider, about one-eighth of an inch, so it can reliably grab and pop the lid in one motion.
Skeletool has a strange asymmetric design, but it is ergonomic. Opened as a set of pliers, the handles look uneven, but their unusual curves fit our palms very well. Using this tool as a knife, we found that the slight curve and dive of the body shape is easy to grasp. This asymmetry also makes it easy to locate and deploy without viewing tools. Many multi-function tools, such as Leatherman Wave+, have a perfectly symmetrical design, and even if you are staring at it, you cannot know which tool you are deploying. Grayson Parker, who writes at BladeReviews, said, "No matter which tool is used, the handle design is ergonomic."
Skeletool CX is very lightweight, weighing only 5.2 ounces, and so slim that we can hardly feel it in our pockets-especially when using pocket clips. After deducting the keychain model, only Gerber Crucial is lighter at 5.2 ounces; most fully loaded multifunction tools weigh about 7, 8 or 9 ounces.
Aesthetically, we found the design of Skeletool CX a bit fascinating. It is not only asymmetrical along the center line of the pliers, but also asymmetrical from front to back. In order to reduce weight, the metal body has holes (called cutouts, hence the name of the tool), giving it a unique and very interesting appearance. During testing, sometimes we find ourselves just staring at how they fit together, like trying to figure out a puzzle. We agree with Sculimbrene's article that CX is "a perfect example of a good, coherent and unified purpose that affects every design decision."
Leatherman CX is an investment. At about $80, it's not the most expensive multi-function tool we've seen, but it's there. We believe that purchasing CX is a long-term plan. The tool is covered by a 25-year warranty, and we think the cost is reasonable because you may rely on the tool, especially if you carry it every day, which is what it was designed for. After using Skeletool for four years, Colligan called it "almost a life tool" in his comments.
After using Skeletool CX, it has completed all the daily tasks that appear at home, although it seems to have been lost in recent months (it is very likely that it was buried under a pile of hay bales somewhere).
The Skeletool CX can be separated because it does not have scissors or clamshell knives. These are great tools, but adding them will lose the stylish, lightweight form that makes Skeletool so successful. Scissors may be the biggest loss, but in most cases (such as cutting the shirt line), we survived with a knife.
It also doesn't have saws, files, can openers, or any other tools found on most multifunctional tools. We found that these tools do not see many actions. If you are pursuing this kind of function, we also recommend using a larger multifunctional tool.
Sculimbrene in his review and Grayson Parker in BladeReviews both pointed out that the tips of the pliers are very blunt. They are definitely fatter than most people, but if we hadn't read these reviews, we wouldn't have thought of their problems. The jaw tips meet evenly and precisely, and we can easily pull the fragments with them.
This Skeletool has the same excellent design as the CX, but the blade steel is not as good, the pivot is not as smooth, and the knife part has serrations, making it more difficult to sharpen.
*At the time of publication, the price was $60.
If Skeletool CX is not available, we recommend using the regular Leatherman Skeletool. This tool is the same as CX in most respects-the same tool selection, the same lightweight, streamlined body-this alone makes it superior to most of the tools we tested. Nonetheless, CX has some slight advantages that are worth a premium. The most important thing is that the quality of the ordinary blade steel is poor, and the blade part of the ordinary blade has serrations. We also found that CX has better blade deployment and better pliers opening and closing mechanism. The last difference is that the body of the CX uses some carbon fiber, but the weight of the two tools is the same.
The blades of the regular Skeletool are made of 420HC steel, which is considered acceptable (but not very good) steel among knife enthusiasts, and is far inferior to CX's 154CM. Colligan compared the two steels side by side and found that the edge retention rate of 154CM is two to three times that of 420HC.
One advantage of 420HC is that it is softer and easier to sharpen than 154CM, but there is a problem: the blade of conventional Skeletool is partially serrated, which means that conventional Skeletool is actually harder to sharpen, except that there is no longer edge retention. CX.
Regular Skeletool is about 20 to 30 dollars cheaper than CX. Although the lower prices of almost the same tools are attractive, we prefer to have CX. A good multifunctional tool has been a companion for decades. Over time, better steel, better edges, and smoother mechanisms offset the price difference.
Free P2 has a larger selection of tools than Skeletool, including scissors and bag openers, but the biggest difference is that all tools including pliers can be deployed with one hand.
For a full-featured multifunctional tool that is very easy to use and has a wider selection than Skeletool (including scissors, flip-top openers, saws and serrated knives), we recommend Leatherman Free P2. Free P2 is part of a new series of multifunctional tools released in early 2019. They are all based on a new magnetic architecture, allowing you to deploy all tools with one hand, including pliers.
To access these tools, press a small tab outside the pivot point to eject a tool from the handle. This is not a perfect system-we usually end up popping up two or three tools and pushing back the tools we don't need-but once we get used to it, its convenience far outweighs any shortcomings. Knives and scissors flip like the blades of a small knife. Tool deployment is not as smooth as Skeletool CX, but it works well.
You can even open the pliers with one hand. In the closed position, the handles are held together by magnets, but once you break the connection-by sliding your thumb or fingertips between the handles and separate them-the handles will loosen, just like on a balisong knife. Rotate your wrist quickly and they will fully open and enter the pliers mode, in this mode, quickly hold the handle to lock them in place. To close the handles, tap one of them on your thigh or side to cover the pawls, and then they will loosen again. Flip again, and they close again. This is a successful system, Free P2 can be completely closed to fully opened in about two seconds. Once we mastered it-after only playing for about half an hour-all the other multi-function tools we used started to feel awkward and tedious to open. Free P2 is not only fast and easy to use-if you are a compulsive violinist, it is also a dream come true. You may find yourself playing it non-stop like we do.
Free P2 has a very good selection of tools. Although we prefer the streamlined features of Skeletool, Free P2 does add scissors and bag openers, which we find useful every day. It also includes a can opener, an awl, a file, a small scraper and several smaller flat-head screwdrivers-we rarely need these, but sometimes, such as on a camping trip, some of them do come in handy .
These additional tools add weight, but in our tests, Free P2 never felt bulky or too bulky. It weighs 7.6 ounces, which is 2.5 ounces heavier than Skeletool (but still less than many other full-size multifunction tools). It has a good balance, and the slightly inclined handle adds to the overall sense of fashion.
The streamlined shape of the Free P2 accentuates the included pocket clip-rarely seen in large multifunctional tools. You can easily remove the clip; the tool also comes with a nylon sheath. We prefer to use editing, and we think this is a good addition.
Free P2 has received many positive reviews. Stuart Deutsch of ToolGuyd liked the redesigned magnet-based architecture and wrote that Free P2 "turns on and off really well". He added that the tool “feels like it was perfectly broken from the first day” and “whether it is in the actual actions of deploying and closing the tool or in terms of use, it is smooth and comfortable to use.”
Although good, Free P2 is not perfect. As we said, deploying a single tool requires some practice. The Free P2 does not have a replaceable driver tip like Skeletool; however, it has a Philips head and many flat head sizes. Replaceable drill bits are great, they can be used as a space-saving device on Skeletool, but on the larger Free P2, this is not a problem. Except for the Philips and flat head tools provided, most people don't need anything, so we don't think it's worth being too nervous.
Unfortunately, Leatherman equipped the Free P2 with a combined blade, which means it is semi-serrated. We prefer to skip the sawtooth, but considering the success of the tool in other areas, we are willing to ignore this decision. Knives may be very picky about their blades, and we are surprised that there is no option that only offers straight blades.
The cost of Free P2 can be called a defect. This model is usually priced at about US$120 and is firmly on the top of the list in multi-tool pricing. But this is a lifetime tool with a 25-year warranty on the back, and it is likely to withstand years of daily use and abuse. In view of everything this tool provides, especially its fast and convenient availability, it still has a high value, and we think its price is suitable for the service it provides you.
Our biggest concern about Free P2 is that it is a brand new design for Leatherman, so it lacks a proven durability and history of success. Given the company's obvious dedication to high-quality tools and our experience so far in this area, we are confident that this leap of faith will be achieved.
This tool is known for its sturdy gear pliers and ability to accept standard 1-inch screwdriver bits, but it is bulky and lacks the accuracy of Leatherman tools.
*At the time of publication, the price was $66.
For cheaper full-size models, the focus is on pliers and screwdrivers, we like SOG PowerAccess Deluxe. The SOG multi-function tool has gear pliers, which doubles the force of pliers and wire cutters and makes it easier to open and close the tool. The tool selection is similar to the tool selection of Free P2, but with a second blade and saw. As for the disadvantages, SOG lacks a simple one-handed blade like Skeletool or Free P2; in addition, some tools, such as knives, saws, and files, are not that strong.
According to SOG, their gear jaws double the force of the pliers. Compared with other multi-function tools, this makes it easier to grab and twist stuck bolts. It also greatly increased the power of the wire cutters, but we found that the actual cutting pliers could not fully keep up with this increased strength-on a thick sheep fence, the tool did cut, but the jaws were slightly recessed . In addition, due to the force required to make these cuts, the boxy multi-tool handles quickly become uncomfortable, and they will not replace a beautiful set of wire cutters or a pair of needle-nose pliers for daily use.
The gear device also has the benefit of opening and closing the tool in a symmetrical manner. This means that when the handle is almost in the stowed position, the jaws are still reachable and can grip objects, making it ideal for very narrow positions.
For the screwdriver, PowerAccess Deluxe has an ordinary Phillips screwdriver and a flat screwdriver, and a precision screwdriver for glasses. It also has a ¼-inch socket driver, an adapter for standard 1-inch bits, and a point at the pivot point where the drive bit can be clamped between pivot gears (the tool comes with 12 in a separate holder) A drill bit). For difficult or stuck screws, you can place a little bit in the socket driver.
All the tools of PowerAccess Deluxe can be operated with the handle in the closed position, but the nail buckles are closely aligned, so it is sometimes difficult to pull out only the tools we want. PowerAccess is about 1/4 inch longer than Free P2 and heavier, so it is less likely to fit comfortably in your trouser pocket. It comes with a belt sheath, 12-position drill bit and socket adapter.
Dime's pliers, bottle openers and convenient clamshell package openers are surprisingly capable of being used in such a small and cheap package.
*At the time of publication, the price was $20.
We tested two of the most popular pliers-based keychain models. For mini multi-tools with multiple options and functions, we recommend Gerber Dime. Dime's asymmetrical design is about the size of a slim Bic lighter, so you can easily find specific tools. Not all tools are successful, but the more important tools are well done. We also like that it has a variety of colors (black, gray, green, purple and red). The limitations of Dime come from its size: you can do many things with blades that are only over 1¼ inches and pliers that open only ⅞ inches.
In terms of its size, Dime is very capable. In addition to the pliers/wire cutter combination, it is also equipped with a knife, flip-top knife, Phillips screwdriver and flat-head screwdriver, scissors, tweezers, file and bottle opener. Like Skeletool, the bottle opener is designed at the end of the pliers handle, so you don't need to open the tool or fiddle with the nail notch to use it. There are other benefits of putting the bottle opener here; it has a long handle when pulled down in the pliers mode, and serves as a good small area for our fingers to buy when we open the tool and get the pliers.
The accuracy of the pliers left a deep impression on us. The quality of the tweezers is really bad, and the springs are also small, but because the tweezers are very successful, this is not important. We will use tweezers at any time, and the tweezers can also work normally.
The blade on Dime is small but very practical. There is no problem cutting the sisal bundles repeatedly. Unfortunately, it is not locked; multifunctional tools of this size are rarely used. The clamshell cutting machine is another success story. Compared with the use of blades, it can open retail packaging more safely, and we found that the risk of this task is greater than you expected.
During the test, we became very fond of Dime. It is just a cool little tool that can do a lot of work. It does not replace the complete feel of Skeletool, but for less than $20, it is a satisfying bargain. Sculimbrene also likes it, and wrote in the comment that Dime "may be the best keychain multifunction tool on the market".
The pliers-based model in this guide does not include the pocket-knife Victorinox Swiss Army Knife (Victorinox's pliers tool is listed in the "competition" section). These basic multifunctional knives are classics of pocket multifunctional knives. They are very useful items, and we have liked to have a variety of models for many years, but many of the reasons in how we choose explain why we decided to use pliers-based tools.
Nevertheless, if these are more in line with your style, then the range of models to choose from is very wide-you can basically choose the ideal combination of tools and find a model that can provide it. The classic, and Sculimbrene's favorite, is Cadet. This is a thin basic model with a knife, screwdriver, bottle opener, can opener and file. At the other end of the spectrum is the Evolution S54 similar to 31 tools.
For a long time, Leatherman Wave+ has been the gold standard for full-size multifunction tools, and for good reason. It is a complete set of tools, combined with high quality and a 25-year warranty, making it an unbeatable tool. We have always appreciated this tool, but after we tested the more user-friendly Free P2, Wave+ now feels heavy and difficult to use. As for tools, Wave+ adds a saw and a second blade, neither of which is necessary (in 15 years of multi-tool use, I think I have never even used a saw). The fact is, between the two, we will choose Free P2 every time.
Leatherman also offers Free P4, which includes a second blade and saw, which combines the overload function of Wave+ with the ease of use of Free P2. Similarly, we believe that these additional tools are not worth the additional weight and volume.
Leatherman Wingman and Leatherman Rev are generally priced at approximately US$50 and US$30 respectively in the low to mid-price range of Leatherman. They have similar designs and their tool selection is fairly streamlined, but we always recommend Skeletool CX (or regular Skeletool) as an easier-to-use option. We don’t have any negative comments about these tools, but nothing makes them stand out from the crowd.
Victorinox SwissTool Spirit X has a stylish appearance and a good selection of tools, but the tools are deployed with small nail notches, so they are not too picky. Overall, it is an excellent tool, but it is not possible to deploy the blade with one hand. This is a feature of Skeletool and Free P2 that we consider essential.
Gerber Suspension NXT has a good range of tools, but it feels cumbersome to hold. The same is true for Gerber trusses. The price of both is about half the price of Skeletool CX. For such long-term purchases, we prefer those more refined tools.
Gerber's CenterDrive and CenterDrive Plus align the tip of the screwdriver with the centerline of the tool in order to make it easier to rotate in the hand. It's good in theory, but the handle is really too heavy, and we really didn't think the design was any good. We like the one-handed deployment of the pliers, but both tools are very large, and when they are in the closed position, there is a large gap in the handles, and we don’t like that the knives on the Plus are semi-serrated. They are also better than the ones we tested Other tools are heavy.
Gerber Crucial has the same streamlined tool selection as Skeletool CX, including carabiner/corkscrew combination, but its pliers pivot is too loose and the handle just flies around. It usually sells for around US$30, so we don’t want it to be compared with Skeletool, but apart from a streamlined selection of tools, this tool has nothing else to make it stand out.
Leatherman Squirt PS4 is a popular keychain model and a competitor of Gerber Dime. Squirt has very beautiful scissors, but no flip-top corkscrew, which we think is a useful addition to Dime. The strange thing is that the keychain ring is exactly where the knife is folded to the body, and we often close the knife on the ring. Its cost is usually twice that of Dime, which has the same function.
SOG PowerAssist is a giant. It has SOG gear pliers and reliable tool selection (but no scissors). The blade has an auxiliary opening that we don't care about, and a lock that is difficult to use with one hand.
SOG PowerPint is a bit difficult to classify. It is larger than the keychain tool, but much smaller than the full-size tool. It looks like a full-scale half-scale model of SOG. It has a pocket folder and a good set of tools, but they are difficult to deploy individually and are tedious to release.
Ganzo G302-b feels good, the blade can be easily opened with one hand, but the handle is particularly bulky. We believe that a larger investment in Skeletool or Free P2 is worthwhile, but even with a budget of $40, we will still choose Leatherman Rev.
DeWalt MT16 is big and bulky, nothing special.
We also tested the Goutoday Multitool Pliers, and its price is usually less than $20. After testing, the price even seems to be too high. The handle is difficult to open, the tool is difficult to deploy, and the pliers pivot makes a slight grinding sound.
We did not retest Leatherman Charge+ for this update, but Harry Sawyers, the editor of this guide, has owned and used Charge+ for several years. This is a very good tool and an upgrade to Wave+. But its price ranges from US$110 to US$140, and we think its value is not as good as Free P2 at similar prices.
We gave up a lot of tools before testing. Many of them have blades on the inside of their pliers. These models include Leatherman Rebar, Leatherman Supertool, Gerber MP600, Gerber Diesel, SOG Crosscut 2.0 and SOG PowerLock.
We also rejected any models designed for specific hobbies, including Leatherman MUT designed for gun maintenance and Leatherman Signal designed for outdoor enthusiasts.
All weight lists in this guide are based on our own measurements, which are usually a fraction of an ounce from the manufacturer’s specifications.
Doug Mahoney is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter, covering home improvement. He has worked in the field of high-end construction for 10 years as a carpenter, foreman and supervisor. He lived in a very demanding farmhouse with a history of 250 years and spent four years demolishing and rebuilding his previous home. He also raises sheep, raises a cow, and milks him every morning.
MegaPro 13 in 1 (or the same Channellock 131CB) is the best screwdriver.
Our favorite thing for building your own small home repair kit.
After more than 350 hours of research and testing of more than 250 tools, we have assembled the best kit for your home.
The Milwaukee 13" site work box is the most efficient, portable, and most organized toolbox we have found.
You can also send us a note.
© 2021 The New York Times Company Wirecutter, Inc.