There are so many other multi-tools out there, and models upon models from brands like Leatherman and Victorinox that it can be confusing to figure out exactly what to get. Here are some others that I like.
Leatherman Skeleton CX for $90, It’s a bit smaller than the Wave Plus, but it’s still a standard-sized multi-tool. If you don’t need all the bells and whistles our top pick offers, you can probably get by with a less bulky tool that still holds the basic, most-used tools, like a knife, bottle opener, opener batter, bit driver, and pliers.
Victorinox Swiss Tool for $153, Yes, I did a double-take when I first saw the price tag. At 10 ounces, it’s also heavy. But it’s beautifully made, and I dig the boxy, straight-edged handles. Sometimes it’s nice to have a tool that doesn’t try to look trendy. It is beautiful.
Leatherman Charge TTI for $190, This is a weak recommendation. It’s packed with 19 useful tools and comes with that stellar Leatherman quality and warranty. I’ve been happily using one for years. Although the price. Even though it’s made of titanium, it’s not lighter than the Wave Plus which costs a lot less and comes with 18 mini-tools, many of them the same as the Charge TT. buy Wave Plus, unless you In fact Like the look of Dark Titanium.
Leatherman Free P4 for $150, I was on the fence about this one. Like most of Leatherman’s lineup, the Free P4 is a quality, well-built tool, but is it worth the $40 increase over our top pick, Leatherman’s $110 Wave Plus? The big differences are that the Free P4, with its 21 tools, uses magnets to open and lock the tools, and a new mechanism to unlock and close the mini-tools that keep your finger in the path of the blade. Does not depend on input. , Compared to other Leatherman’s the magnet takes no less force initially to open the tool, but once you get it started, the opening mechanism Very Smooth and comfortable.
SmallRig Universal Multi-Tool for Videographers for $30: If you find yourself hung up with a lot of videography equipment like our product reviewer Eric Ravenscraft, you can make a multi-tool for adjusting and maintaining cameras without knives and pliers. The Smallrig consists of nine tools, including hex keys in several sizes common to cameras, a Phillips-head screwdriver, and a pair of flat-head screwdrivers. Eric likes the wider flat head for screwing in and removing tripod heads, which he says usually get scraped and chewed up by smaller screwdrivers.
Leatherman Micra for $57, Instead of pliers, the Micra opens in a pair of scissors. It feels like it’s made of cheaper materials and has thinner tool blades than the Victorinox Mini Champ, which is of similar size, purpose, and price. The spring-loaded mechanism is tough to open and close without poking yourself. But it has character, and I love the little thing. It’s a good alternative to the Mini Champ, especially if you want a tiny multi-tool that circles around the scissor.
Leatherman Wingman for $70, Wingman feels great to use. Not wildly textured surfaces, and no plastic anywhere. Smooth scales similar to Victorinox Swiss tools feel old school in a good “remember when” way. Its handle holds 14 tools, all of which open and close as if they were buttering. The complete package measures only 4 inches tall and weighs 7 ounces. It is a great deal at this price.
SOG Key Knife for $12, The best knife is the one you have with you. That Leatherman Wave Plus won’t do you any good if it’s at home and you’re not. Subtle tools like the Mini Champ and Micra are easy to pocket, but you still have to remember them. The key knife goes right on your key ring, so it’s always with you. The blade flares out and measures 1.5 inches, which is long enough for most minor cutting tasks. However, it is a one trick pony, and has only one blade. You’re not getting a premium product, but the stainless steel blade is plenty sharp.
Leatherman Raptor Response for $80, Instead of taking the form of pliers, these medical scissors have a blunt tip so that medics don’t accidentally stab a patient while trying to cut through tissue. Raptor Response is very niche. If you have to ask, then no, you don’t need to. But for an EMT or wilderness medic on remote backcountry trips, it’s a simple packaging solution that includes an oxygen tank wrench and ring cutters (for cutting through tightening jewelry).
