Multi-tools are vital for any outdoor adventure. They offer many functions in one small item. This means hikers can do things like prep meals and fix gear with just one tool. It’s smart to pack a top multi-tool to be ready for anything on your hike.
The Leatherman Wave+ is a great choice. It’s strong and has many features, such as pliers and knives. If you prefer something smaller and lighter, try the Leatherman Micra. It’s ideal for everyday tasks. Picking the right multi-tool means looking at the variety of tools, quality, and how easy it is to carry.
Many experts suggest that a small blade is enough for hiking. Ultralight hikers usually just carry a tiny knife for cutting. The Leatherman Skeletool CX is light yet functional, so it won’t slow you down.
It’s crucial to have a multi-tool that meets your needs. This could be the Leatherman Signal for its many uses or the tiny Leatherman Squirt. Having the right multi-tool can greatly improve your time outdoors. Let’s look at some of the best options out there.
The Importance of Multi-Tools for Hikers
For hikers, having a multi-tool can be a real lifesaver. It helps with everything from cutting frayed ropes to fixing loose bolts. Leatherman multi-tools, for instance, are popular for their dependability and multiple uses.
Hikers find that the right multi-tool can tackle unexpected challenges. Pliers might pull out a cactus spine or fix a zipper, saving time. Many prefer lightweight multi-tools for easy carrying. Also, 70% of hikers carry essentials like scissors, tweezers, or pliers for repairs.
Scissors are crucial for 80% of trail hikers, many seasoned adventurers agree. Experts like Mike St. Pierre value simplicity in multi-tools, focusing on essentials. They suggest having pliers, scissors, and a blade.
Some choose a small Swiss Army knife for long hikes like the Appalachian Trail, while others may not carry a multi-tool. Interestingly, 40% opt for a Swiss Army knife for extended trips. About 30% suggest a multi-tool is vital for solo snowshoeing to avoid equipment failure.
But multi-tools are more than hiking gear; they’re essential for outdoor survival. They enable self-reliance, promote safety, and prepare you for anything. They’re useful for fixing blisters, gathering materials, or starting a fire. Despite their importance, 10% of hikers have had multi-tools taken by TSA, showing their value in daily life.
Leatherman ARC: The Best Overall Multi-Tool
The Leatherman ARC is the top choice among premium hiking tools. Its high-quality build and superb functionality make it shine in reviews. Although it weighs 8.6 ounces, which is a bit heavy, it’s ideal for your hiking backpack rather than your pocket.
Features and Specifications
The Leatherman ARC is packed with features. It boasts 21 tools, making it extremely versatile. Here are some highlights:
- Blade: The 2.8-inch MagnaCut steel blade is known for its durable edge and resistance to rust.
- FREE Technology: This feature allows easy access to tools, even when they’re folded up, making your life easier.
- Swappable Bits: This adds more versatility with tools like a mini-bit driver and scissors.
- Material: It’s crafted from the finest CPM MagnaCut Steel Blade and other high-quality steels.
- Warranty: It comes with a long 25-year warranty.
Pros and Cons
While the Leatherman ARC has many pluses, there are also some downsides. Here are the pros and cons:
- Pros:
- It has superior build quality and uses advanced materials.
- You can operate all tools with one hand.
- It includes a durable nylon sheath for carrying.
- Features the latest FREE technology for hassle-free tool access.
- Cons:
- At 8.6 ounces, it’s a bit heavy for daily carry.
- With a price tag of $230, it’s one of the pricier options.
Leatherman Skeletool CX: Best for Everyday Carry
The Leatherman Skeletool CX is the best daily carry multi-tool around. It’s designed to fit comfortably in your pocket or on your belt loop. It has a pocket clip for easy attachment.
Why It’s Great for Daily Use
The Skeletool CX is comfy and easy to use every day. Its blade is made of high-quality 154CM stainless steel. This keeps the blade sharp for longer. It also allows for using the knife with just one hand.
This tool only weighs 5.08 ounces, making it super light. It’s one of the least heavy full-size multi-tools out there. User reviews are great. Many people love it for daily carry. 55 out of 59 users even gave it a full 5-star rating.
Performance and Limitations
The Skeletool CX performs well for everyday tasks. It comes with useful tools like pliers, wire cutters, and a unique screwdriver. But, some users find the pliers hard to hold for a long time.
Its design makes it very portable. Even though it has fewer tools, what it has matters for most daily needs. Its design helps avoid discomfort during long use. This is due to its rounded handles and easy-to-reach tools.
Overall, the Leatherman Skeletool CX is an excellent choice for daily carry. It offers a smart balance of utility and comfort. With its reliable performance, it’s great for daily tasks.
Best Multi-Tools for Hikers: Compact and Essential Gear in One Package
Finding the right multi-tool for hiking can be tricky. You want something that does a lot but isn’t too heavy. The best ones have what you need and don’t make your pack heavy.
Top hiker multi-tools are loved for meeting different needs. One popular choice is the lightweight Leatherman Squirt PS4, at only 57 grams. It’s known for being useful and tough, with strong pliers for quick fixes.
The Leatherman Juice is another favorite, weighing just under two ounces. It packs necessary tools like pliers and a sharp knife for many tasks. Hikers who like to keep it light often choose this tool.
Looking for something affordable? Check out the Gerber Gear Dime Multi-Tool. It’s a light option with many helpful tools. You get pliers, a knife, scissors, and more that can hang on a keychain. It’s ideal for those who want to carry less but still be prepared.
The Wetols 21-in-1 Multi-Tool is great for its price and what you get. It weighs 12 ounces and has 21 tools including a knife and pliers. It’s perfect for hikers who want lots of tools without the bulk.
If you’re ready to spend a bit more, the Victorinox Swiss Tool Spirit MXBS is top-notch. It weighs 7.4 ounces and comes with 24 tools. With comfy handles and sharp blades, it’s for hikers who want the best of everything.
Every multi-tool offers something special for different hikers. Maybe you’ll like the feature-rich Leatherman Wave+ or the affordable Leatherman Wingman. Think about the tools, quality, and how it feels to use outdoors. This will help you choose a multi-tool that can handle your hiking adventures.
Leatherman Wave+: Best Bang for Your Buck
Looking for a multi-tool that offers great value? The Leatherman Wave+ could end your search. It’s praised in many reviews for packing loads of features without a hefty price. This makes it a top pick for anyone needing a reliable tool.
Comprehensive Functionality
The Leatherman Wave+ comes with 17 useful tools. It’s ready for a variety of tasks. It has everything from pliers to wire cutters that you can replace. Plus, it has different blades for cutting needs. It’s great for outdoor adventures or fixing things at home.
Even with its sturdy build, the Wave+ is not heavy. It weighs about 8 ounces. It combines pliers, scissors, wire cutters, and more in a full-sized tool. You also get a nylon sheath for carrying. Or, you can add a pocket clip or lanyard ring.
This makes the Wave+ a loaded hiking tool at a good price. It stands out against more expensive models like the Charge+ TTi. For those wanting quality without spending a lot, the Wave+ is an excellent choice. It’s a bestseller in the Leatherman range.
Leatherman Wingman: Best on a Tight Budget
Looking for a great multi-tool that won’t break the bank? The Leatherman Wingman is your best bet. It costs way less than the Charge multi-tool, yet it’s packed with awesome features for under $25. It’s affordable while offering many useful and reliable features.
The Wingman shines with its special package opener. It’s designed to cut through annoying plastic packaging easily, scoring an amazing 11/10. The springs in the pliers (8/10) and the large scissors (7.5/10) are easy to get to and use. These scissors are some of the best, being sharp and accurate.
There’s a knife in the Wingman that has a smooth and notched edge. Even though it got a 5/10 and is a bit short, it works well for a lot of tasks. The file, driver, and “pokeything” are useful with a 6/10. The screwdrivers are reliable, with a 7/10 rating.
This multi-tool is made of full steel, so it lasts a long time. But, you might need help to fix the notched part of the blade. It’s easy to carry every day because of its pocket clip and springs in the pliers. Plus, its shape is modern and unique.
If you’re looking for a multi-tool that’s easy on the wallet, the Leatherman Wingman is fantastic. It may not have the fanciest materials or design like the Charge+ TTi. Nor the perfect balance of the Wave. But, it stands out for its features and great price. It’s a top pick for anyone watching their budget.
Leatherman Charge+ TTi: Professional-Grade Quality
The Leatherman Charge+ TTi stands out for its professional-grade quality. It suits those who need a dependable multi-tool. For over 40 years, Leatherman has focused on meeting the high demands of professionals and outdoor lovers.
Designed for Heavy-Duty Use
The Charge+ TTi shines with its many features. It’s among the best for hard tasks. It holds 19 tools and, with extra bits, doubles the functions of other tools. Key features are:
- S30V steel blade for improved durability and edge retention
- Titanium handle for a solid yet light design
- Interchangeable wire cutters for precise cuts
- Locking blades and tools for safety
- User-serviceable parts, except the main plier hinge
- Versatile carrying options
The Charge+ TTi is petite at 4 inches long and weighs 8.2 oz, perfect for tough tasks. Leatherman added a blade-lock for safety when the pliers are used.
It comes with a 25-year warranty, proving Leatherman’s dedication to quality and customer happiness. Its design favors right-handers, ensuring ease during long uses.
At $170.00, its quality and performance have earned a 4.5 out of 5 rating. For those needing more features, a bit kit is available for $19.00. In a crowded market, the Charge+ TTi is a leading choice for reliable and high-quality tools.
Conclusion
After looking at many multi-tools for hikers, we see there’s a wide range. Each option is designed to meet different needs and budgets. Every tool we mentioned has special features. This means they work well for various outdoor activities.
The Leatherman ARC is great due to its versatility. It’s perfect for many uses. The Leatherman Skeletool CX is ideal for everyday carry. It keeps things simple but effective. The Leatherman Wave+ offers a lot at a good price. And, the Leatherman Wingman fits those who don’t want to spend much.
The Leatherman Charge+ TTi excels in professional settings with its robust build. The GOAT Multi-tool adds something new with its customizable features and strong blades. However, it’s a bit tricky to use. Key aspects of these tools include being long-lasting, easy to handle, and compact.
Each hiker’s needs are unique, from specialized tools to budget limits, or wanting something light to carry. Picking the right multi-tool can greatly enhance your time outdoors. It ensures you’re ready for anything. Whether fixing gear, preparing food, or handling emergencies, a trusty multi-tool is essential for lovers of the outdoors.
