When you enter “multi-tools” into your search bar, you’re instantly bombarded with a diverse array of tools in all shapes and sizes. There are a lot of multi-tools on the market, and we should know, we sell tons of them. Finding the best multi-tools can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. From pocket multi-tools to those with butterfly or one-handed openings, there’s plenty to choose from.
Don’t get too overwhelmed by the variety of tools. It’s better to look at multi-tools by use. How you’re going to use them and where you’re going to use them will help you narrow down your selection so you can find the right tool for you. You may need a multi-tool for just one tool in it, or you may want as many tools as possible. It’s entirely up to you. To help you out in your search, we’ve put together a guide on different multi-tools by use.
A QUICK OVERVIEW OF MULTI-TOOL TYPES
As we already said above, there are a lot of different types of multi-tools. If you’re not an expert, take a moment to learn about each unique format.
Butterfly Opening
A butterfly opening multi-tool is as simple as it sounds. It has two pieces on a hinge that swing open like wings. Most butterfly opening tools have pliers in them, so if that’s an essential tool for you, you’ll want to browse this type of multi-tool.
One-handed Opening
Whoever named the different types of multi-tools didn’t like to mince words. A one-handed opening multi-tool can be opened with one hand. They are designed to bring ease while working. If you already have your hands busy with a project but need access to a tool fast, this is a multi-tool for you.
Compact
These multi-tools are all about travel and packability. They are compact, meaning you can keep them in a bag or on a keychain, so you have something there when you need it. The tools are often smaller, but it doesn’t mean they’re less effective. It’s better to have a tool than no tool at all.
THE BEST ALL-AROUND MULTI-TOOL:
CENTER-DRIVE
The Center-Drive is a fan favorite at Gerber, and with good reason. It comes with nine tools that do their job incredibly well. It’s a one-handed opening multi-tool with a pair of spring-loaded needle nose pliers. The most innovative feature of this multi-tool is the center-axis driver. This tool has a screwdriver feature designed to align like a real screwdriver, yielding maximum torque and rotation. It also features a 3.25-inch steel blade, serrated blade, wire cutters, file, and much more.
This is genuinely the best multi-tool for multiple situations. The pliers can do everything from fixing a barb-wired fence to pulling a hook from a fish’s mouth. With the Center-Drive, you get the function and power of a screwdriver on the go.
THE MULTI-TOOL WITH THE MOST TOOLS:
TRUSS
If you like to be over-prepared for any situation, or as we at Gerber say, “MORE THAN READY,” the Truss is the multi-tool for you. Built with a whopping 17 tools, this is the multi-tool you want to carry along when troubleshooting anything and everything. It’s a butterfly opening style tool with needle nose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutters, a 2.25-inch plain edge blade and serrated edge blade, scissors, saw, real cross driver, can opener, bottle opener, awl, file, ruler, wire stripper, along with a small, medium, and large flathead driver.
If that seems like a lot, it’s because that is a lot of tools. But think of it this way: would you rather carry 17 individual tools or one tool that can do 17 different things? If you do a lot of work out on a ranch, outdoors, or even on a remote job site, this a great tool to keep on you because of its versatility.
THE BEST MULTI-TOOL TO CARRY IN YOUR BACKPACK: ARMBAR DRIVE
The Armbar Drive is the perfect multi-tool for campers, backpackers, and anyone who likes to spend time outdoors. This is a compact multi-tool with just eight tools and a slim profile. It has the same screwdriver technology as the Center-Drive, making it a great addition to your bike bag or backpack if you need to adjust your gear along the way. The eight included tools are a plain edge blade, Philips driver, flathead driver, pry bar, hammer, scissors, awl, and a bottle opener. The star is a 2.5″ driver that grants more access and less frustration when completing tasks in hard-to-reach places.
Since it’s a more compact design, this is a handy multi-tool to carry outdoors or keep in your center console in your car. It’s become a favorite of gear enthusiasts who like mountain biking, skiing, and snowboarding.
THE BEST MULTI-TOOL TO DO THE DIRTY WORK: PRYBRID UTILITY CLIP
The Prybrid Utility Clip is a tiny but beefy multi-tool built for demanding jobs. It’s designed to scrape, pull, cut, and pry no matter how gnarly the task is. It has eight tools, including a pry bar for challenging tasks like opening old paint cans or pulling up old nails. It clips into your pocket and has an exchange-a-blade system so you can always have a sharp edge. It’s tough as hell, so you shouldn’t be afraid to use it on any job that needs some elbow grease. This is a great tool to have on a job site for any contractor, handyman, or DIYer.
These are just four of the many different kinds of multi-tools Gerber has to offer. Remember, each multi-tool can get the job done, or multiple jobs done for that matter. It’s always best to have a tool on hand.
