Multitools and knives

Modern knives are light, razor sharp and often come with multiple tools to help you out of any situation.

Weight
The more tools your chosen model has the heavier it will be. If you’re buying for your tramping trips, choose a model that has fewer functions. If you want a multi-tool to complement your tool box, then it’s a case of the more the merrier.

Handle
The handle is one of the most important features. It should allow a sure and comfortable grip – often achieved through an ergonomic design that naturally fits your hand. When using the knife or multi-tool, the tools not in use should not protrude into the hand. Some handles also offer a textured surface for non-slip grip.

Serrated vs plain blades
Straight edges are good for accurate and clean cuts – perfect for those cheese and salami lunch breaks – and for skinning animals or sharpening sticks. Serrated blades are designed for more vigorous cutting and for tackling tougher materials, sometimes even wood. A single blade that combines a plain and serrated edge provides the best of both worlds.

Blade access
Most multi-tools allow access to the blades without having to open the tool. One-handed opening is common, where you use your thumb to slide the blade out of the handle.

Locking mechanisms
A safety feature built into most multi-tools and the outdoor-oriented pocket knives is a lockable blade. This prevents the blade from accidentally closing when pressure is applied in the wrong direction. This is easy to operate with your thumb when the tool is held in a natural grip.

Now you know what to look for, it’s time to choose a model.

Leatherman Signal $299-$325
19 tools including fire-starting ferro rod, built-in emergency whistle, pliers, saw, hammer, wire cutters, combo knife, diamond-coated file and can/bottle opener. All locking blades, made in USA, 25 year warranty. 213g.

Leatherman Tread $299-$340
Wearable multi-tool for wrist, travel-friendly and TSA compliant with 29 tools including cutting hook, bottle opener, carbide glass breaker, hex drives and screwdrivers. Fully customisable links. Also available in Black DLC coating. Made in USA, 25 year warranty. 168g.

Leatherman Wave $279-$299
17 tools including four outside-accessible locking blades with one-handed deployment, pliers, scissors and large bit driver for switching bits. All locking blades. 100% stainless steel, leather, nylon or MOLLE pouch, made in USA, 25 year warranty. 241g.

Victorinox Ranger Wood 55 $169.99
10 functions including wood saw, large lock blade, key ring, can opener, 3mm and 5mm screwdrivers, wire stripper, reamer, punch and sewing awl, corkscrew. Wrapped in walnut scales. 163g.

Leatherman Wingman $119-$129
14 tools including spring-action regular and needle nose pliers, screwdrivers, wood/metal file, bottle opener, can opener, one handed deployment of outside-accessible locking 420HC combo knife blade and scissors, belt clip, made in USA, 25 year warranty. 198g.

Leatherman Style CS $75-$80
Clip-on multi-tool featuring spring-action scissors, file, knife, tweezers, bottle opener and mini-screwdriver. Fits in pocket or clips onto pack, bag or keyring. Made in USA, 25 year warranty. 41g.

Gerber Suspension $69.99
Open frame multi-tool featuring spring-loaded pliers, Saf.T.Plus locking system, fine-edge knife, serrated knife, rough cut saw. Housed in a ballistic nylon sheath. 255g.

Leatherman Micra $49-$69
6.5cm long with 10 tools including spring-action scissors, multiple screwdrivers, bottle opener, tweezers, nail file and knife blade. Made in USA, 25 year warranty. 51g.

Victorinox Climber from $64.99
14 functions including scissors, blades, corkscrew, screwdrivers, wire stripper, toothpick, tweezers, parcel hook and bottle/can openers. 82g.

Gerber Paraframe I $34.95
Minimal frame-lock design, open frame, with a fine edge locking blade, easy to clean, single handed opening, smooth stainless steel handle, clip for secure travel, limited Lifetime warranty. 74g.