Best Multitool for Hiking in 2023

Multitools really come down to 2 types.  There’s a knife with additional tools or you can choose a type of pliers.   The plier multitools are usually more useful in more situations but sometimes leave something to be desired in the knife department (cue, “that’s not a knife”).   The knife suffers from the opposite problem.    Our reviews are based on what we could agree on as a baseline but you’ll have to choose which one fits your needs.

Multitools are an essential item for anyone who loves spending time in the outdoors or enjoys DIY projects. These versatile tools can combine a variety of functions, such as pliers, knives, screwdrivers, and more, into a compact and portable device. With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one.

When looking for the best multitool, there are several factors to consider. One of the most critical aspects is the tool’s build quality. A high-quality multitool should be made of durable materials that can withstand heavy use without breaking or bending. Another factor to consider is the number and variety of functions the multitool offers. Some models may have more tools than others, but it’s essential to choose one that has the functions you need.

Other factors to consider when selecting a multitool include its size, weight, and ease of use. A bulky or heavy multitool may not be ideal for carrying around, while a small and lightweight one may not offer enough functions. Additionally, the ease of use is an important consideration, as some models may be more difficult to open or use than others.

After researching and testing multiple multitools, we have identified the best options on the market. These multitools offer a wide range of functions, are made of high-quality materials, and are easy to use. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just need a reliable tool for everyday use, our top picks have got you covered.

Best Multitools for Camping and Hiking

We know how important it is to have a reliable multitool, whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or just someone who values practicality. That’s why we’ve tested and reviewed some of the best multitools on the market to help you find the perfect one for your needs. In this roundup, we’ve included multitools that boast a range of features, including pliers, screwdrivers, knives, saws, and more. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best multitools available today.

Gerber Gear Suspension-NXT 15-in-1 Multi-Tool

If you are looking for a versatile, compact, and durable multi-tool, the Gerber Gear Suspension-NXT 15-in-1 Multi-Tool is a great option.

Pros

  • The 15-in-1 tool set provides a wide range of functionalities, including needle nose pliers, wire stripper, flathead drivers, cross driver, awl, nail file, scissors, can opener, bottle opener, partially serrated blade, and more.
  • Made from stainless steel, this multi-tool is built to last and can withstand heavy use. The tool lock, lanyard point, and pocket clip make it easy to carry and access.
  • The slim design and butterfly opening feature make it easy to use and store. It is a great addition to your camping essentials, toolbox, workwear, fishing, and hiking gear.

Cons

  • The locks can be stiff, which may make it difficult to close the tools with gloves on.
  • The pliers are not high-end or premium quality, but they are competitively priced.
  • The multi-tool may not be suitable for winter use due to the stiff locks.

We have used the Gerber Gear Suspension-NXT 15-in-1 Multi-Tool on various occasions, and it has always performed well. The tool set is comprehensive and has everything you need for everyday tasks and outdoor adventures. The stainless steel construction ensures that it can withstand heavy use and last for a long time. The slim design and butterfly opening feature make it easy to use and store, and the tool lock, lanyard point, and pocket clip make it easy to carry and access. The only downside we have noticed is that the locks can be stiff, which may make it difficult to close the tools with gloves on. Overall, if you are looking for a reliable and versatile multi-tool, the Gerber Gear Suspension-NXT 15-in-1 Multi-Tool is a great choice.

fangfo Multitool

We highly recommend the fangfo Multitool for anyone in need of a versatile and durable tool for outdoor activities and everyday use.

Pros

  • With 14 functions, this multitool has everything you need, including pliers heads, sharp knife, screwdrivers, serrated knife, hook remover, double-sided file, can opener, and bottle opener.
  • The side lock design ensures every tool and knife (except the pliers heads) is locked when fully open, providing safety and stability during use.
  • The compact size and foldable design make it easy to store in your pocket or attach to your belt loop with the included nylon pouch.

Cons

  • The ridges/serrations along the outside of the handle can make it uncomfortable to grip for extended periods of time.
  • The cutting tools and blades could be sharper.
  • The case loop is positioned too low, making the tool top-heavy on a belt.

This comprehensive tool set is perfect for outdoor sports, survival, camping, fishing, hiking, and hunting. The sturdy stainless steel material ensures it can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. Whether you need a screwdriver, pliers, or knife, the fangfo Multitool has got you covered. Overall, we believe this multitool is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile tool.

Pohaku Multitool Knife

We highly recommend the Pohaku Multitool Knife for those in need of a reliable and sturdy all-in-one tool.

Pros

  • The knife is over 3 inches long, providing a secure grip and making heavy-duty cutting tasks a breeze.
  • Made of high-quality stainless steel, this multitool is rust-proof and anti-corrosion, ensuring long-lasting durability.
  • With 13 different tools, including pliers, screwdrivers, and saws, this multitool can handle almost any job, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Cons

  • It may be too heavy for some users to carry around comfortably.
  • The tools can be difficult to access at times, requiring some extra effort to open.
  • The nylon sheath that comes with the multitool may not be as durable as desired.

We found the Pohaku Multitool Knife to be a great tool for outdoor enthusiasts and those in need of a reliable all-in-one tool. The knife’s large blade and comfortable grip make it easy to handle, while the high-quality stainless steel ensures durability. With 13 different tools, this multitool can handle almost any job, making it perfect for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

In addition to its many features, the Pohaku Multitool Knife is also lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry with you wherever you go. It comes with a durable nylon bag that can be put into a pocket or hung on a belt, making it perfect for daily EDC, maintenance, and outdoor survival gear.

Overall, we highly recommend the Pohaku Multitool Knife for anyone in need of a reliable and durable all-in-one tool. With its many features and high-quality construction, it is sure to be a valuable addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s gear collection.

Mossy Oak Multitool

We highly recommend purchasing the Mossy Oak Multitool because of its excellent material, convenient self-locking design, and wide range of functions.

Pros

  • The whole multitool is constructed of ultra-durable stainless steel, which effectively prevents corrosion and guarantees long-term durability. It has an advanced 3D hollow structure and smooth surface and edge, which makes it comfortable to use.
  • The remarkable self-locking structure applied to all tools in the handles makes you open and close the tools more quickly. You just need to press the lock and then fold it to keep the accessories in place.
  • The multi tool includes needle nose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutters, magnetic hexagon sleeve, screwdriver, knife, scale, metal/wood File, serrated knife, bottle opener & slotted screwdriver, wood saw, leather punch, 8-in-1 bit set and more.

Cons

  • The tool comes with a hard-wearing pouch with a separate elastic pocket on the front for storing extra screwdriver bits. The included sheath can slip over a belt or a backpack strap for easy carrying.
  • All the tools have well-sized holes or bumps for easy opening. It is an ideal multi-pliers for outdoor activities like camping, fishing, hiking, cooking, picnic, DIY, and more.
  • The ruler and file are designed in together, distributed on the front and back.

We have used the Mossy Oak Multitool for several outdoor activities like camping, fishing, hiking, and cooking. The tool is sturdy, and all the accessories are well-designed to serve their purpose. The self-locking design makes it easy to open and close the tools, and the pouch is convenient for carrying it around. However, the ruler and file are not as useful as the other accessories, and the tool is a bit heavy. Overall, the Mossy Oak Multitool is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a durable and functional multitool.

KINGMAX Pocket Tool Kit

We highly recommend the KINGMAX Pocket Tool Kit for anyone looking for a versatile and durable multitool.

Pros

  • The folding design saves space and makes it easy to carry.
  • Made of high-quality stainless steel with premium hardness and rust resistance.
  • The blade is locked when open, ensuring safety during use.

Cons

  • The tool is slightly heavy, weighing 7.7 ounces.
  • The handle can be slippery when wet.
  • The screwdriver bit set is limited to 9 pieces.

We have used the KINGMAX Pocket Tool Kit extensively and found it to be a reliable and useful tool for a variety of situations. The folding design makes it easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt, and the included nylon cloth bag is a convenient addition. The stainless steel construction is durable and resistant to rust, ensuring that it will last for years.

One of the standout features of this multitool is the locking mechanism on the blade. This ensures that the blade will not accidentally close during use, providing an added level of safety. The grooved handle design also makes it easy to grip, even when wet.

While the tool is slightly heavy, we found that the weight is well-distributed and does not cause any discomfort during use. The only minor issue we encountered was with the screwdriver bit set, which is limited to 9 pieces. However, this is a minor drawback and did not significantly impact our use of the tool.

Overall, the KINGMAX Pocket Tool Kit is a great choice for anyone in need of a versatile and reliable multitool.

LEATHERMAN, Rebar Multitool

We highly recommend the LEATHERMAN, Rebar Multitool for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile tool.

Pros

  • The all-locking tools make it easy to use and prevent accidental injury.
  • With 17 tools in 1, the Rebar is perfect for any job around the house or job site.
  • The 25-year warranty gives you peace of mind knowing that your Leatherman will last a lifetime.

Cons

  • The Rebar is smaller than other Leatherman multitools, which can make it harder to hold for people with larger hands.
  • The tools are all internal, which can make them harder to access than external tools.
  • The price may be a bit high for some people.

We found the LEATHERMAN, Rebar Multitool to be a reliable and versatile tool that is perfect for any job around the house or job site. The all-locking tools make it easy to use and prevent accidental injury. With 17 tools in 1, including knives, pliers, screwdrivers, wire cutters, an electrical crimper, a wire stripper, bottle and can openers, a file, a saw, an awl, and a ruler, the Rebar is perfect for any job around the house or job site. The 25-year warranty gives you peace of mind knowing that your Leatherman will last a lifetime.

However, the Rebar is smaller than other Leatherman multitools, which can make it harder to hold for people with larger hands. The tools are all internal, which can make them harder to access than external tools. Additionally, the price may be a bit high for some people.

Overall, the LEATHERMAN, Rebar Multitool is a great investment for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile tool that will last a lifetime.

WETOLS 21-in-1 Multi-Pliers

If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile multi-tool that can handle various tasks, the WETOLS 21-in-1 Multi-Pliers is an excellent option to consider.

Pros

  • This multi-tool features 21 tools in one compact and foldable design, including pliers, knives, screwdrivers, and more, making it a useful tool for various applications.
  • The self-locking device ensures that all tools will be automatically locked after opening, preventing accidental closing during operation and avoiding hand injuries.
  • The tool is made of hardened stainless steel and sandblasted surface, making it resistant to oxidation and corrosion in harsh environments.

Cons

  • The nylon bag that comes with the tool is not very durable and may wear out quickly with regular use.
  • The tool is slightly heavier than other multi-tools in its class, which may not be ideal for some users looking for a lightweight option.
  • The tool’s blade may not be as sharp as some users would like, and it may require sharpening before use.

We’ve tested the WETOLS 21-in-1 Multi-Pliers and found it to be a reliable and durable tool that can handle various tasks. The tool is easy to use, and the self-locking mechanism ensures that all tools remain in place during operation.

The sandblasted surface of the tool provides a good grip, making it easy to handle even in wet or slippery conditions. The 21 tools included in the design make it a versatile tool that can handle various tasks, from cutting wires to opening bottles and cans.

However, the nylon bag that comes with the tool is not very durable and may wear out quickly with regular use. Additionally, the tool is slightly heavier than other multi-tools in its class, which may not be ideal for some users looking for a lightweight option.

Overall, the WETOLS 21-in-1 Multi-Pliers is an excellent multi-tool that offers a range of features and functions at a reasonable price point. If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile multi-tool that won’t break the bank, this is an excellent option to consider.

WIWUE GUO Multi Tool

We highly recommend the WIWUE GUO Multi Tool for anyone looking for a versatile and affordable multitool that can handle a variety of tasks.

Pros

  • The WIWUE GUO Multi Tool includes all the important tools you need in one compact and lightweight package.
  • The outside-accessible blades make it easy to open with one hand, and the rounded handles provide a comfortable grip.
  • The included nylon sheath makes it easy to carry and store the multitool on your belt.

Cons

  • The knife blade may not be as sharp as some other multitools on the market.
  • Some of the tools, such as the screwdrivers, may be duplicated or unnecessary.
  • The multitool may not be as durable as more expensive options.

In our experience, the WIWUE GUO Multi Tool is a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable multitool for camping, hiking, fishing, or other outdoor activities. The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry in your pocket or on your belt, and the included nylon sheath provides added protection.

The outside-accessible blades and rounded handles make it easy to use with one hand, and the variety of tools included make it a versatile option for a wide range of tasks. However, the knife blade may not be as sharp as some other options, and some of the tools may be duplicated or unnecessary.

Overall, we believe that the WIWUE GUO Multi Tool is an excellent value for the price and would make a great addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s toolkit.

Grand Way Multitool

If you’re looking for a versatile and compact multitool that can handle a variety of tasks, the Grand Way Multitool is a great option.

Pros

  • Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry in your pocket or backpack
  • Includes 24 features, including pliers, wire cutter and stripper, folding knife, can and bottle opener, metal file, screwdrivers, scraper, and awl
  • Comes with a nylon sheath for easy carrying and storage

Cons

  • The ribs on the outside can be uncomfortable when using a lot of force to cut something
  • The case is not very durable and may come apart over time
  • Some of the tools may be difficult to access or use due to their small size

We were impressed with the Grand Way Multitool’s wide range of features and its compact design. It’s a great choice for anyone who needs a versatile tool for camping, hiking, backpacking, hunting, fishing, or everyday use.

The multitool is made of high-quality stainless steel, which ensures that it will last for years without rusting or corroding. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry in your pocket or backpack, and the included nylon sheath provides added protection and convenience.

One of the standout features of the Grand Way Multitool is its 24 different tools, which cover a wide range of tasks. The pliers, wire cutter, and stripper are great for electrical work, while the folding knife and screwdrivers are useful for all sorts of repairs. The can and bottle opener, metal file, scraper, and awl are also handy additions that make this multitool a true all-in-one solution.

While we were generally impressed with the Grand Way Multitool, there were a few downsides to note. Some of the tools are quite small, which can make them difficult to use for people with larger hands. Additionally, the ribs on the outside of the tool can be uncomfortable to grip when using a lot of force.

Overall, we think the Grand Way Multitool is a great option for anyone looking for a versatile and compact tool that can handle a variety of tasks. Its wide range of features and high-quality construction make it a great value for the price, and the included nylon sheath makes it easy to carry and store.

LEATHERMAN, Skeletool Lightweight Multitool

We highly recommend the LEATHERMAN Skeletool Lightweight Multitool for those looking for a compact and versatile tool that can handle a variety of tasks.

Pros

  • Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry around
  • Includes a variety of useful tools, including a knife, pliers, and bit driver
  • One-hand access and locking blade ensures safe and easy use

Cons

  • Lack of additional tools may not be suitable for those who need a wider range of functions
  • Paint may wear off over time with frequent use
  • Pliers do not have a spring and need to be manually opened/closed

The LEATHERMAN Skeletool Lightweight Multitool is an excellent choice for those who need a reliable tool for everyday use. With its compact and lightweight design, it can easily fit in your pocket or attach to your belt for quick access. The tool includes a knife, pliers, large exchangeable bit driver, wire-cutters, carabiner/bottle opener, and an extra bit stored in the handle. The one-hand access feature allows you to easily open and use all the tools, even the ones that are not accessible from the outside. The locking blade ensures safe use while cutting.

While this tool may not have as many functions as some other multitools on the market, it is perfect for those who need a simple and reliable tool for everyday use. The lack of additional tools may not be suitable for those who need a wider range of functions, but for those who only need the basics, this tool is perfect. The paint may wear off over time with frequent use, but this does not affect the functionality of the tool. The pliers do not have a spring and need to be manually opened/closed, which may be inconvenient for some users.

Overall, we highly recommend the LEATHERMAN Skeletool Lightweight Multitool for its compact and versatile design, reliable functionality, and ease of use.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best multitool, there are several factors to consider. We want to make sure you get the most out of your purchase, so here are some things to keep in mind:

Functionality

The first thing to consider is what tasks you will be using the multitool for. Do you need a saw blade? Pliers? Scissors? Make a list of the functions you need, and look for a multitool that includes those features. Keep in mind that the more functions a multitool has, the heavier and bulkier it will be.

Size and Weight

Speaking of weight, it’s important to find a multitool that is comfortable to carry and use. If you plan on carrying it in your pocket, look for a compact and lightweight option. If you’ll be carrying it in a backpack or tool belt, you can go for a larger, heavier option.

Material and Durability

Multitools are designed to be used in tough conditions, so you want to make sure yours is durable and made from high-quality materials. Look for a multitool with a stainless steel construction or other durable materials that will withstand wear and tear.

Ergonomics

The design of the multitool is also important. Look for one with comfortable grips and easy-to-use tools. A multitool with a locking mechanism can also be helpful to prevent accidental closures.

Warranty

Finally, make sure to check the warranty on the multitool. A good warranty can give you peace of mind and protect your investment. Look for a warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship.

In summary, when choosing a multitool, consider the functions you need, the size and weight, the material and durability, the ergonomics, and the warranty. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a multitool that will meet your needs and last for years to come.