Quickly tighten a screw, open a bottle or cut open packaging – with a multitool, you always have your multifunctional tool with you wherever you go. Up to 40 tools are hidden in the successor to the pocket knife and are a real asset when camping, hiking or trekking. We have taken a close look at various models and tell you what you need to consider when buying multitools.
The most important things first
- A multitool is a kind of mini toolbox and a practical purchase, especially for outdoor adventurers.
- When folded up, the multifunctional tool is so small that you can carry it in your pocket or on your belt.
- The difference between a pocket knife and a multitool lies in the design. The main element of the pocket knife is a handle, whereas the multitool is a pair of pliers.
- There are different types of multitools. These include the mechanical multitool, the multitool knife, the electric multitool, the bicycle multitool, the multitool snowflake and the mini multitool.
Inhaltsverzeichnis
- The most important things first
- Functional & high-quality: The editors’ recommendation
- Good & affordable: The price-performance winner
- Multitool: What is important when choosing
- Multitool or pocket knife – what’s the difference?
- What types of multitools are there?
- Who is a multitool suitable for?
- Your multitool should have these functions
- You should pay attention to these features when buying
- We compared these multitools
- Frequently asked questions about multitools
Don’t want to scroll? Click here to go directly to Multitools in comparison.
Functional & high-quality: The editors’ recommendation
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- Verschiedene Zangen, Schraubendreher, ein scharfes Messer, Drahtschneider, ein Dosenöffner, ein…
14 tools and the high-quality stainless steel finish speak for this multitool.
Good & affordable: The price-performance winner
- 🎁【Ideale Geschenke für Männer】Praktische und sparsame multitool zange eignet sich für…
- ❤【18 in 1 Multifunktions Zange】BIBURY Zange ist mit 18 Funktionen ausgestattet,…
This model impresses as a multi-tool with needle-nose pliers, saw, pipe wrench, cable cutter, screwdriver, bottle opener, wrench, scales and file at a fair price
Multitool: What is important when choosing
Do you enjoy being out in nature a lot, do you love camping and do you like to take things into your own hands? Then a multitool could be just the right tool for you. Even MacGyver knew how to get himself out of any dicey situation with his pocket knife. With a practical multitool, you have even more functions than with the predecessor. Let’s take a closer look at the whole thing. The best way to find the right model for you is to use our buying guide for multitools.
Multitool or pocket knife – what’s the difference?
The two are very similar in the way they work. Both versions are multifunctional tools that combine many tools in a very compact way and can be folded out as required. The biggest difference lies in the design. A pocket knife consists of a handle to which blades, corkscrew, saw, file and various other items are attached. In a multitool, on the other hand, the main element is a pair of combination pliers with the tools housed in the two handles. As the name suggests, the pocket knife focuses on the knife, while the multitool focuses on the pliers.
What types of multitools are there?
We have already clarified the generic term multitool, but there are still certain differences and different versions of these multifunctional tools. I would like to briefly introduce you to them in detail.
Mechanical multitool
This is the version already presented, i.e. a multifunctional tool on which many small tools can be folded out. These are integrated into the two arms of the pliers. Here, the many models differ in the number of tools that are housed in the pliers. These include a saw, file, bottle opener, can opener, screwdriver and many more.
Multitool knife
This is a kind of pocket knife, but in a slightly larger format. Instead of pliers, the handle with fold-out blade is the heart of the multifunctional knife. In addition to the knife, there are of course plenty of other tools such as can openers, pliers, files and even Allen keys.
Electric multitools
This is a practical helper that is often used in workshops and is also a real added value for hobbyists and campers. Such a multifunctional tool can perform various tasks, such as cutting, sawing, milling, polishing or grinding. All you have to do is change the corresponding attachment. So instead of buying several tools, your motorized multitool is enough. If you travel a lot with your van or camper, this purchase is a real space saver.
Multitool for the bike
There are also special multi-tools for bike enthusiasts that are tailored to the needs and requirements of bicycle and motorcycle repairs. A special multitool with appropriate components is very practical for both short tours and longer trips. You always have your own little workshop with you and are not dependent on the help of others. From tightening bolts off-road to changing tires or a broken chain, your bike multitool can easily help you out of a jam. You should always have an Allen key in various sizes up to 8 mm, a Torx key, a screwdriver, a chain tool and a spoke tensioner.
Multitool snowflake
As the name suggests, this multifunctional tool looks like a snowflake. In contrast to the multitool knife and the mechanical multitool, all tools are visible on this version. This means that nothing is hidden or folded away. Cross-head and slotted screwdrivers and various Allen keys are often included as tools. For safety reasons, as nothing can be folded in, this version does not have a knife, file or pliers.
Mini multitool as a key ring
Last but not least, I would like to introduce you to the multi-tools in mini format. These are so small that you can simply use them as key rings. The snowflake, for example, is sometimes so small that you can attach it to your key ring and always have your tool set with you. The pocket knives are also available in mini format with a small knife, file and everything that goes with it.
Who is a multitool suitable for?
The target group for multitool users is huge. After all, it can never be wrong to have a small tool set with you. Both hobbyists and craftsmen can benefit from such a multifunctional tool. But outdoor enthusiasts in particular should not do without a multitool. This means you always have the right tool with you when camping, trekking, fishing or hunting. Of course, it also helps you with everyday problems, such as a loose screw, opening bottles or cutting through objects.
Your multitool should have these functions
Every multitool is different – so the features and functions depend entirely on the product and the manufacturer. There are simple models with fewer than ten tools and larger multifunctional tools with up to 30 tools. It’s best to choose a model that has all the tools you need. Frequently included are:
- Pliers
- Pointed pliers
- Pipe grip pliers
- Wire cutter
- Scissors
- Saw
- File
- Screwdriver
- Wrench
- Bottle opener
- Can opener
- Corkscrew
- Ruler
You should pay attention to these features when buying
As you have probably already noticed, the range of multifunctional tools is enormous. There are very different types and models with different features. I would like to briefly explain what you should look out for when choosing the right product.
Kind
The first thing you should think about is what type of multitool you want. A practical all-purpose multi-tool is suitable for small jobs around the house and especially for camping or trips into the countryside. If you are looking for a multifunctional tool for your bike, then you should look for a special tool for bikes. These are then designed entirely to meet the needs of cyclists. If, on the other hand, you want to use it for large manual tasks, an eclectic multi-tool is the perfect choice, allowing you to saw, grind and do many other things.
Size and weight
The dimensions and weight of your multitool should not be disregarded. Most mechanical multitools are between 9 and 15 cm long when folded, so you can easily stow them in your trouser pocket, on your belt or in your rucksack. Most of the larger models weigh between 200 and 400 g. Of course, there are also lightweight models such as mini multitools as key rings, but these have significantly fewer functions.
Material
Most multitools are made from high-quality stainless steel, which guarantees a long service life. However, there are always black sheep who work with cheaper materials. So make absolutely sure that your multitool is not made of inferior metal or cheap plastic. The differences are primarily noticeable in the price.
Tools
Of course, the number and equipment of the tools are also very important. After all, they are the reason why you want to buy a multitool. The knife, pliers, scissors, file, screwdriver and bottle opener are particularly practical.
Accessories
Many multitools are supplied with an accessory. In most cases, this is a practical case or holster. This is primarily useful if you want to carry your multitool on your belt. The big advantage is that this case has exactly the right dimensions to prevent your tools from sliding around. Another extra can be an additional bit set. If you want to use your multitool frequently as a screwdriver replacement, this accessory can be a great advantage.
We compared these multitools
Frequently asked questions about multitools
What is a multitool?
A multitool is a multifunctional tool that consists of several small tools. You can carry it comfortably on your belt, in your trouser pocket or in your rucksack, as it is usually quite small and compact. You may already be familiar with the name Leatherman. The developer from the USA made the multitool really famous.
How do I care for a multitool?
Good care of your multitool includes storing it as dry as possible and not exposing it to constant moisture. A place in the garden is therefore not the ideal storage location. If your tool comes with a practical holster or case, you should always keep it in there. To sharpen knife blades or scissors, a sharpening stone or similar is usually recommended. If you have used your multitool to cut branches in nature, for example, it is advisable to remove the residue immediately afterwards with a cloth so that nothing can stick.
What does a multitool cost?
Depending on which model and type of multitool you choose, the purchase costs will vary. You can get a small and simple multitool as a key ring or a snowflake multitool for between EUR 6 and EUR 15. Between 15 and 30 EUR, you can get quite well-equipped tools that are really impressive. If you want to buy an original Leatherman, you need to budget at least 50 EUR, although most models are priced between 75 and 150 EUR. If you opt for an electric multitool from Bosch, Makita or Dewalt, for example, you will have to budget between EUR 40 for a lesser-known brand and up to EUR 150 for a brand-name tool.
Cover picture: © CamperStyle
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