Multi-tool

Charles W. Bryant,

multi-tool

"Swiss Army knife" comes to mind when you think of "multi-tool." Its options were thrilling for most Boy Scouts, from the standard tweezers, saw and scissors, to the tiny magnifying glass on deluxe models. While the Swiss Army knife is still around, its tiny saws, pokers and toothpicks are more of a novelty than a true survival tool. It can come in handy, but it's no match for the modern multi-tool. The "Leatherman" is probably the most well-known of these. Popularized in the 1980s, the Leatherman and other multi-tools have come a long way in their own right.

Multi-tools typically contain two halves joined by a pair of pliers in the center. Each half has a number of options, depending on your needs, and they generally don't weigh more than 5 to 10 ounces. Flat and Phillips head screwdrivers, pokers, saw blades, and bottle and can openers are standard on most varieties. Other models come with scissors, serrated knives, metal files and Allen wrenches. A Phillips head screwdriver may come in handy in the wood shop, but for a survival scenario, go with one that has the most blade options.