Folding multitools have become an indispensable companion for DIY enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and professionals. These compact devices pack various valuable tools into a single, portable package. Among the many options available, we specifically recommend the Leatherman Wave+, which is a favorite of This Old House’s own Richard Trethewey.
Trethewey has carried a Leatherman pocket tool for decades. Clipped to his belt or snugged in a pocket, his Wave style has been a constant companion—until he hits the airport. “In my years of travel, I’ve lost at least a dozen to the TSA,” he says regretfully.
In our guide below, we talk about what makes the Leatherman tool stand out and take a deep dive into more of our top picks.
Top 5 Multitools
- Leatherman Wave+ Multitool: Best Overall
- Gerber Gear Truss Multitool: Most Comprehensive
- RoverTac Multitool: Best Hammer Tool
- RAK Multitool: Best Pen Tool
- Desuccus 18-in-1 Snowflake Multitool: Best Snowflake Tool
Compare Top Multitools
| Product | Tool Count | Type | Color | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
LEATHERMAN Wave Plus MultitoolCheck Price | 18 | Pliers head | Stainless steel or black | 25 years |
Gerber Gear Truss MultitoolCheck Price | 19 | Pliers head | Gray | Lifetime |
RoverTac MultitoolCheck Price | 14 | Hammer and hatched head | Multiple | Lifetime |
RAK MultitoolCheck Price | 8 | Pen | Black | Not listed |
Desuccus 18-in-1 Snowflake MultitoolCheck Price | 18 | Snowflake | Gray | Not listed |
Best Overall
Leatherman Wave+ Multitool
This tool comes recommended from This Old House expert Richard Trethewey, who has been carrying it for decades. It features 18 tools and is built to withstand tough conditions and continued use. This multitool is perfectly sized to fit in your backpack, pocket, or tool belt and can be operated with one hand.
Pros and Cons of Leatherman Wave+ Multitool
- Has magnets that hold the handles together but won’t mess up credit cards
- No fingernails are needed to get at tools
- No rough edges or balky parts; it’s good to go right out of the box
- Has a high price point
- Some customers said it was hard to open
What People Are Saying About The Leatherman Wave+ Multitool
We found that customers who were pleased with this multitool raved about its excellent quality and durable build. Several others were pleased with how well it lasted, and how easy it was to open and use. However, some customers did note that they had a hard time opening this tool, while others said it arrived damaged or dirty.
Most Comprehensive
Gerber Gear Truss Multitool
This multitool from Gerber Gear contains 19 tools, allowing you to perform more tasks than the other products in this review. The Gerber Gear Truss Multitool is also spring-loaded, which minimizes how tired your hands feel after using it.
Pros and Cons of Gerber Gear Truss Multitool
- Made from strong alloy steel
- Can be mounted vertically or horizontally on a belt
- Spring-loaded to minimize hand fatigue for the use
- Noted by some that it was blocky
- Criticized by some customers for having small blades
What People Are Saying About The Gerber Gear Truss Multitool
Positive reviews noted that this multitool was ergonomic and versatile. Several customers also pointed out that this tool was small enough to carry with them at all times. Negative reviews stated that the blades were smaller than anticipated and that the design was blocky.
Best Hammer Tool
RoverTac Multitool
This multitool from RoverTac has a hammer and a hatchet as its head, allowing you to complete a variety of tasks around the home. In addition, this hammer tool comes with a solid nylon pouch to cover its blade and a lifetime warranty to guarantee its longevity.
Pros and Cons of RoverTac Multitool
- Contains 14 tools
- Available in different colors
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
- Criticized by customers for being smaller than expected
- Noted by some that the hatchet was dull
What People Are Saying About The RoverTac Multitool
Positive reviews noted that this stainless steel multitool was durable and versatile. Many said that they used it for hiking and everyday projects. Negative reviews said that the tools were small and that the hatchet blade was dull.
Best Pen Tool
RAK Multitool
This multitool is shaped like a pen, giving it a slim design that doesn’t take up much space in your toolbox. It features unique tools that the other options in this review don’t, such as an LED light and a bubble level.
Pros and Cons of RAK Multitool
- Includes two ink refills
- Comes with the needed batteries
- Has a built-in LED light
- Have to take apart the pen to get to some of the tools
- Can’t refill the pen again after using the two included refills
What People Are Saying About The RAK Multitool
Satisfied customers said that the flashlight function was one of their favorite parts of this pen multitool. In addition, many reviewers noted that it was sturdier than other pen multitools that they had used in the past. Unsatisfied customers criticized this pen multitool for not having universal ink refills. After they used the two included refills, they couldn’t use the pen again.
Best Snowflake Tool
Desuccus 18-in-1 Snowflake Multitool
This Desuccus multitool is shaped like a snowflake with a unique tool on each of its eight ends. It also features tools between each end, giving it a total of 18 tool functions that are suitable for daily use.
Pros and Cons of Desuccus 18-in-1 Snowflake Multitool
- Has the most affordable multitool price in this review
- Built to be small enough to fit in your pocket
- Includes a Phillips screwdriver function
- Doesn’t have size markings on the tools
- May be difficult to grip because of its bulky snowflake design
What People Are Saying About The Desuccus 18-in-1 Snowflake Multitool
Happy customers said that they were pleased with the high-quality material that this multitool was made of. However, some customers complained that this multitool was heavy and bulky, making it difficult to use. Negative reviews also criticized this multitool for not having markings on the tools to indicate their size.
Multitool Buying Guide
Selecting the ideal folding multitool depends on your intended use and personal preferences. Consider the following factors when making your choice:
- Brand reputation: Opt for reputable brands known for quality and customer support.
- Build quality: Look for durable materials and solid construction for longevity.
- Ease of use: Consider features such as one-handed operation and tool accessibility.
- Size and weight: Choose a size that balances functionality with portability.
- Tool selection: Make sure the multitool includes the tools you’ll use most frequently.
Multitool Maintenance Tips
Proper maintenance can significantly extend the life of your multitool and enhance performance. Follow these tips to keep your tool in top condition:
- Clean regularly: Remove dirt and debris after each use, especially in moving parts.
- Inspect regularly: Check for loose screws or damaged components and address issues promptly.
- Lubricate: Regularly apply a small amount of lubricant to hinges and other moving parts.
- Sharpen blades: Keep knife blades and other cutting tools sharp for safe and effective use.
- Store properly: Keep your multitool in a dry place when not in use to prevent rust.
Multitool FAQs
What tools are typically included in a multitool?
Here are a few of the most common and essential tools you’ll find in a multitool:
- Bottle openers
- Knives
- Pliers
- Pry tools
- Scissors
- Screwdrivers
- Toothpicks
- Wirecutters
Who uses a multitool?
Anyone can benefit from a multitool, as it provides you with several tools in a compact shape. However, multitools are commonly used by cyclists, electricians, hunters, mechanics, and campers because they allow for easy repairs on the go without taking up too much storage space.
How do I keep my multitool from closing on me while I’m using it?
Look for a multitool that locks in its in-use position. This prevents knives, pliers, and other sharp tools from injuring your hands.
Our Methodology
To provide our readers with the best recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of everyday carry tools with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: Through our years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down further by comparing each model’s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIYers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published numerous tool reviews, from cordless drills and impact drivers to tape measures and laser levels.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.