When you’re going camping, you should never leave without the best camping multitools. These multifunctional tools can serve you well in the wild. And it can help you do a variety of tasks. You might not be able to carry regular knives and blades. So there is no other way to be able to cut ropes or open food packets than with a multitool.
Shopping for the best multitool can be confusing. They have different features and different functions. And you might be overwhelmed. Never worry, we are here to help you choose the tool that will serve you best.
So start scrolling to see what we have in store for you. –
Quick summary:
- The LEATHERMAN, Charge Plus TTi- B is our overall choice because it has a nice set of features and a rather sharp titanium blade. It can also be used for a variety of applications.
- If you need a multitool that’s perfect for daily tasks, the LEATHERMAN 830950 Skeletool CX will be of great use. You do not need something too heavy to carry around every day.
- The LEATHERMAN Surge is made of black oxide. Thus it’s a heavy duty multitool that can take on tougher cutting jobs and tasks.
- Even if you’re on a budget, you can still score a functional multi tool. The Gerber Gear Truss is decently shaper. It may be easy on the wallet, but it’s quite dependable.
- If you’re going camping, the Victorinox Swiss Army Swisstool Spirit X- is the best multitool to pack. This can make your camping easier as you can use it for a variety of cutting tasks.
Pack these bad boys along if you go camping or pretty much anywhere. You’ll have a good use for them!
Our Top 10 Picks for the Best Camping MultiTool (A Product Review)
Pack these bad bods along if you go camping. You’ll have a good use for them!
1. LEATHERMAN, Charge Plus TTi- Best Overall
This 19 in 1 tool boasts a sharp and light titanium blade.
This multi-tool ticks the boxes of our list! And it might hit yours too. It’s a 19 in 1 tool so you can have more use for it. In addition, the blade is titanium. So you can expect it to be sharp but it will not have too much heft to it. And since it’s not that heavy, it’s convenient to carry in your pocket or a lanyard.
In addition, you will love the nice set of features. Except for the pliers, everything else kicks into place. So safety is not a concern. Plus, you will be able to use this tool more efficiently.
You’ll also love how you can open and use it with just one hand. So when it comes to multitasking, this is king. Now, your other hand is free to do anything.
Features:
- 5 x 2 x 0.8 inches
- Stainless steel
- Titanium blade
- Weighs 8 lbs
- replaceable wire cutters
- 19 TOOLS IN 1
- 25-year warranty
- pocket clip and quick-release lanyard ring
Pros
- High-quality tools
- One-hand operation
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Some customers experienced quality control issues
2. LEATHERMAN 830950 Skeletool CX- Best for Light duty
This lightweight multitool has the basic tools that you will need for everyday tasks.
It’s lightweight and it has the basic tools for a wide range of jobs. So this is a no-fuss multitool. And since it does not contain a lot of tools, you can expect it to be light and handy, Thus, it’s easy to use and carry.
And you only need one hand to open it. It also has a locking mechanism so safety will always be the utmost concern.
It’s an agreeable lightweight utility knife for light-duty work. It’s also great for beginners.
Features:
- Stainless steel
- Pocket clip
- Locking mechanism
- 25-year warranty
- needlenose and regular pliers, hard and regular wire cutters, 154CM knife, carabiner, bottle opener, and large bit driver
- 2 x 3.54 x 0.4 inches
- Weighs .4 lbs
Pros
- Easy to use
- Has a locking mechanism
- No-fuss and straightforward
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Some find the wirecutter section too small
3. LEATHERMAN Surge – Best Heavy Duty
This is a heavy-duty multi-tool ready to take on tough jobs.
It’s made of black oxide and you can expect this bad boy to be heavy duty. It comes in a large size that can take on more demanding and challenging jobs.
And it’s also easy to use. It may have a bit of heft to it but it’s still easy to open and easy to maneuver.
Features:
- Weighs .9 lbs
- 5.3 x 3.6 x 1.97 inches
- Black oxide
- 21 in 1 tool
- Unique blade exchanger, replaceable premium wire cutters, and four outside-opening blades give you quick access to any of its 21 premium tools
- One-hand opening
Pros
- Has a lot of tools
- Can be opened with one hand
- Heavy duty
Cons
- The scissors have been better
4. Gerber Gear Truss Multitool- Best Budget
The Gerber Gear comes with 17 tools and it’s at a very affordable price.
It’s a multifunctional tool but you will be able to buy it at a very sweet price. And you won’t be disappointed with this budget-friendly multitool. Also, the handle is made of a single stainless steel sheet, so it’s rather durable and ergonomic.
And this also makes the handle nice, slim, and light. It’s easy to carry around and it’s easy to use. Moreover, all the tools are locked and can be accessed outside. This makes deployment of the blades rather easy. And since it’s lockable, it’s very safe to use.
Also, the tools have a smooth opening on the box, so there isn’t much that you will not be happy about
Features:
- 1.75 x 0.5 x 4.35 inches
- Weighs .5 lbs
- Molle compatible sheath
- Spring-loaded needle nose pliers
- Includes wire stripper, medium flathead driver, awl, file, and ruler
Pros
- Tools are lockable
- Slim and light
- Easy to use
Cons
- The blades are quite small
5. Victorinox Swiss Army Swisstool Spirit X- Best for Backpackers
This is the ultimate multitool for backpackers.
Why may you ask? It’s because of its compact size. It’s easy to carry around, and this brand has been a household name for multi-tools for decades! So in terms of quality, you can never go wrong with it.
You’ll be amazed at how compact it is despite all the tools it has. The brand was able to squeeze in all of the 26 tools in one compact unit.
It also comes with a nylon belt sheath so it’s easier to bring for camping. And it looks rather fancy too.
In terms of durability, the black finish is made of stainless steel thus it’s corrosion-resistant. At the same time, it also makes the multi-tool look more fancy and sophisticated.
Features:
- 0.03 x 0.08 x 0.03 inches
- Weighs 31 lbs
- stainless steel construction.
- Made in Switzerland
- 25 tools
- Lockable blade
- Needle-nosed pliers, wire cutter for thin and soft wire up to 40 HRC, hard wire cutter, large blade, Phillips screwdriver 1/2, reamer/punch, multipurpose hook, can opener, screwdriver 3 mm, bottle opener, screwdriver 6 mm, crate opener, wire bender, scissors, wood saw, metal saw, metal file, screwdriver 2 mm, chisel 7 mm, cable cover longitudinal cutter, cable cover crossways cutter, wire stripper and scraper, lanyard hole, coupling for a corkscrew
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Polished sophisticated look
- Come with a lot of tools for its size
Cons
- The blade does not have a lock
6. SOG Multi-Tool Pliers Set with Knife – Best Design
This multitool is cleverly designed.
Out of all the products on our list, this model perhaps had the most intelligent design. You can fold it apart to make use of the plier. Moreover, it has long handles. So it’s very comfortable to use and ergonomic too.
All the tools are lockable with folding edges. So you will be able to grasp the handles fully and it has a more even torque.
It also comes with a sheath and you can use it either horizontally or vertically. So that’s a plus for us in terms of comfort.
Features:
- 1.3 x 5.9 x 0.65 inches
- Measures 5.9 ounces
- 17 tools in one
- tiny driver, a bottle opener, can opener, spring-loaded scissors, small and medium screwdrivers, and a plain edge knife
Pros
- Unique clever design
- Adjustable sheathe
- Ergonomic handle
Cons
- Some experienced problems with quality control
7. Leatherman Wave Plus- Best Value
From a known multitool brand comes another compact and affordable multi-tool.
And for its price, it has a nice set of tools. And all tools are made from high-quality materials. It also features a locking blade so you can use this multitool confidently. You don’t have to worry if the blades will suddenly spring out and cut your hand.
In terms of construction, it’s durable and solid. This compact multitool can hold up pretty well. And it can take on a fair amount of abuse. So you’ll be getting the most bang for your buck.
It’s a rather solid tool for its price. It also has more tools stashed in a small pocket knife.
Features:
- 4 x 1.5 x 0.8 inches
- weighs .7 lbs
- 18 tools
- 25-year warranty
- Pocket size
Pros
- One-hand opening
- Durable and solid
- Compact and light
Cons
- Some had issues with quality control
8. Gerber Center Drive- Best Screwdriver
If you’re looking for the best screwdriver in a multitool, nothing beats the Gerber Center Drive.
When used as a screwdriver, it has a very smooth handle and ratcheting drive. It also features a longer handle so it’s more comfortable and torque is better. The outboard knife is even 30 percent longer than most of its competitors.
It has one hand handle to access all the tools, so it’s rather convenient too. It’s also quite heavy-duty. But you have to take note that it can be a bit bigger than its contemporaries.
Features:
- 9.5 x 2.25 x 1 inches
- Weighs .85 lbs
- 12 piece tool
- Comes with black sheath
- One-thumb opening sliding jaws
- Made in the USA
Pros
- One-hand access
- Great screwdriver
- Longer handle
Cons
- Too big to fit in the pocket of some
9. Leatherman Signal- Best Portable
This portable multi-tool is the ultimate tool for camping.
If you’re going off the grid, better pack this bad boy in your camping bag. And if it’s from Leatherman, you know it’s of high quality. This brand has been a frontrunner in making multitools. So there’s so much reliability in there.
This multitool is particularly designed for the great outdoors. The tools that are inside this bad boy will serve you well when you’re camping or hiking.
It even has a carabiner for easy hanging, one feature that most of the
competition lacks. It also has a ferrocerium so you can start a fire to give warmth to your camping crew.
Features:
- Stainless Steel with Nylon Sheath
- Measure .6 lbs
- Has a clip and carabiner
- 25-year warranty
- Made In the USA
- 5.2 x 3.6 x 1.8 inches
- variety of pliers, wire cutters and stripper, knife, saw, hammer, a variety of bit drivers and wrenches, bottle and can openers, carabiner, safety whistle, ferrocerium rod, diamond-coated sharpener, and awl with thread loop
Pros
- Perfect for camping
- One hand open feature
- Has a whistle and a firestarter
Cons
- The handle is not the most ergonomic
10. Stanley 84-519K -Best Basic
This basic multi-tool is perfect for rugged situations.
Why do you ask? For several reasons! One, it has features that work decently. Though it’s not the most durable on the list, it does the job rather well. Two, it has an affordable price. So it can be an alternative to your expensive multi-tool. You will not cry if it gets lost.
It’s pretty ergonomic for a variety of tasks and jobs. It’s quite solid and stout so if you use the pliers, it does not feel like it’s going to bend or anything.
The nylon sheath is also a nice addition. It works well and doesn’t snap. So even if it is made in China, it can do the job.
Features:
- Stainless steel
- 12 in 1 tool
- 8.3 x 5.5 x 2 inches
- Measures.4 lbs
- Made in China
- Comes with a nylon holster
- 2 Pliers, Wire Cutter, Saw, 4 Screwdrivers, 2 Knives, Bottle opener, and File
Pros
- Basic tools
- Affordable
- Suitable for rugged situations
Cons
- Screwdriver isn’t the best
What to Consider when Buying a Camping Multi-Tool, (A Buying Guide)
Multi-tools offer a lot of functionalities. But there will be a product that will fare better on your list. And here’s how to find out.
1. Functions
As mentioned above, different multitools will have a different function. There are 12 in 1 multitool and there are more elaborate ones. It can even have up to 24 tools in one unit.
Some multitools brands may be more suited for beginners. So you have to hover through each function and decide if you have a real need for it. Only then will you be able to get a multitool that can be of more value to you. The bottom line, it should be something that will serve your needs well.
2. Legality
If your multi-tool does have a blade, there is nothing much to discuss in terms of legality. But if it has blades, you have to check first your state’s law regarding carrying multitools with blades and knives.
3. Materials
The perfect multitools must be durable. Most are made from stainless steel so they will be able to withstand wear and tear. The best camping multi-tool should be able to take on abuse.
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4. Size
While most camping multitools are fairly compact, there are more portable ones that you can easily carry around. Some may come with cheetahs and lanyards too.
But it should not be too heavy or big. Camping multi-tools must not be too hefty because you don’t want to pack one that is too big in your camping bag.
5. Weight
Weight is directly relevant to the size. Camping multi-tools must not be too heavy and they should not be too big either.
6. Access
multitools will have serial told stashed in a single unit. And you have to be able to access each tool easily. Otherwise, you might not have much use for it. It also has to have a comfortable handle. An easy-to-use tool is always a plus.
7. Price
multitools can have a budget-friendly price. And there are also more premium-priced ones. So you have to hover through the tools if you need them for each. Because even if it has a more expensive price, it can be of more value to you if you have a use for each of the tools.
Why you Should Use a Multitool
Here are several functions of multitools.
1. Cutting
Most brands often come with knives and scissors so it is handy when you want to open a packet of food or cut a rope. This will not function in the same way as a full-on knife or scissor. But it still can do the job.
2. Gripping items
Multi-Tools with pliers come in handy when you need to grab things. It can be used to fold wires or tiles.
3. Screwing and unscrewing
Screws can be quite tricky to work with. And a multitool is the perfect alternative when there is no full screwdriver.
4. Opening bottles
You can easily open cans and bottles with a multitool. And you do not even have to bring a buy can opener.
Types of Multitools
You might be curious how many types of multitools there are in the market. They all look so intricate, right? Allow us to break it down for you.
1. Keychain
These multitools are portable and perfect for those who are on the go. Most camping multi-tools are also of this type. This is easier to carry and easy to conceal from the public.
2. Regular
Regular multitool can be of different sizes. The size often depends on how many tools it has. Some camping multi-tools are also of this type. And you’re sure to find one that suits your needs.
3. Credit card
Credit card multitools have sharp edges that can be used to open bottles. It looks like a credit card when unopened. However, this is not suitable for camping because of its shape and size.
FAQ’s
What is a multitool?
It’s a multipurpose power tool that has interchangeable blades and accessories.
What are campaign multitools?
Camping multitools are pocket-sized multitools that have a lot of accessories and functions. Aside from camping, you can also use these for outdoor home use.
What is the best multitools design for camping?
Camping multitools should be compact and portable. Most multitools will have a butterfly casing where the tools are encased in two casings.
Final say
The best camping multi-tools can solve nearly any problem in the backcountry. These portable and compact tools are packed with accessories and blades that you’ll need when you’re going off the grid.
But don’t just settle for any brand. To ensure quality, reliability, and functionality, you must buy from reliable and trusted brands. And we have them on our list!
OUR #1 RECOMMENDATIONS
LEATHERMAN
Our list consists of reliable maltitol brands. But we had to choose our best overall and the LEATHERMAN, Charge Plus TTi- B takes home the bacon. This has a little bit of everything and it’s pretty much a combination of all the things you’d want in a multitool.
It’s pretty sharp too so you can use it for a variety of cutting tasks. And it has a 25 years warranty so you are getting the best deal.