Multi-tools are some of the most functional things to carry everywhere you go. From pliers to knives, they have a tool for practically every job and will get you out of a pinch more times often than not! The biggest problem is that a lot of multi-tools can be bulky and cumbersome, which can discourage everyday carry applications.
That problem is exactly why many companies have come up with the solution of minimizing the size of some of their multi-tools while not minimizing on their utility. Pocket sized multi-tools are great because they provide a lot of the same functionality as standard sized multi-tools, but without the bulk. Ultimately, this will encourage you to keep them on your person at all times making the pocket sized multi-tool a great idea for everyday carry (EDC) applications. If you’re looking to step up your EDC game, upgrade your multi-tool to one of the 10 best pocket multi-tools listed below!
1) BigIDesign TPT Slide Multi-tool
One of the most popular multi-tools on the market is the Titanium Pocket Tool (TPT) Slide from Big I Design. There are several tools packed into this little tool that solve all sorts of common issues that come up on a daily basis. From making small measurements with the side of the tools to the flat head screwdriver on the back handle, you’ve got something that will tackle practically every job you throw at it.
The machining of the TPT slide is very precise, making it an easy to carry tool that also looks incredible. One thing that sets the TPT Slide apart from the rest of the tools is that the sliding feature is able to be operated with one hand and can be interchanged with either a fork head or a razor blade. Ease of function and multiple uses are the defining features of a multi-tool and the TPT Slide hits both of those out of the park.
2) Gerber Shard
Gerber is a brand name that has earned the respect that it carries. They’ve created some of the toughest and most useful products for survival around. From machetes to multi-tools, Gerber puts the highest quality products out because they know their clientele very well. They’re everyday adventurers that need the best to get them out of whatever situation they find themselves in!
Enter the Gerber Shard. This little multi-tool is built with the same attention to detail and quality as the rest of Gerber’s products, so you can rest assured that you’re making a good purchase when you pick one of these little guys up. Don’t let the size fool you, the Shard packs a ton of utility with 7 functions built right into it. From the wire stripper to the large flathead screwdriver, you’ll find plenty of work for this little dynamo to do on a daily basis.
3) Axwell Mission Multi-tool Card Bundle
If you need a multi-tool to go the distance and provide you with not 7, not 10, but 23 different functions, look no further than the Axwell Mission Multi-tool Card. This excellent little tool is sure to tackle practically everything that you can throw at it. Whether you need to quickly comb your hair before a big interview or date or you need to use one of the many different sized hex bits to tighten down a bolt or screw, the Mission Multi-tool Card is sure to be the best fit for the job.
What’s even better is that this awesome multi-tool is designed to be about the same size as a standard credit card. This makes it easy to store it inside of your wallet, which will ensure that you take it wherever you go without a second thought!
4) Leatherman Free T4
Another household name brand when it comes to strong, built to last multi-tools is Leatherman. For years, Leatherman has made some of the toughest multi-tools out there. They machine their tools so well that each one is guaranteed for life to not break down. And if it does, Leatherman will fix your tool up free of charge to you! If that doesn’t give you peace of mind that they’ve got a stellar product in the Free T4, I don’t know what will!
The Free T4 gives you 12 tools that fold neatly into a slick looking metal sheath. Each tool locks into place, making the Free T4 an excellent tool for those needing to do extended work with it as the tools will stay out and locked for as long as you need them. The Free T4 comes in a variety of colors too, making it easy to customize your multi-tool to your preferences!
5) Griffin Pocket Tool
The Griffin Pocket Tool is a great option for minimalists. The design is simple, but it packs a ton of utility into the tools machined into this great little tool. There are 12 tools built into this one little bar, making it one of the most functional single bar tools on this list.
Many who’ve purchased this tool rejoice about how much easier their lives have become since buying one. The initial skepticism wares off once the Griffin Pocket Tool gets used to open boxes, scrape things off of the walls or floors, and by the end of the day, it’s still there to help you crack a cold one after a long day’s work.
6) CRKT Pryma
When you need a tool that will not only be there to help fix minor issues on a day to day basis, but also be there to save lives, look no further than the CRKT Pryma. This dynamic little tool is one of the most important to carry for those who are first responders, as not only does it carry similar functions to the rest of the tools on this list, but it also is designed to use the pry bar/scrapper as a glass breaking tool. If you’re in a situation when you need to get yourself or someone out of a car wreck or building, you’re going to want a glass breaking tool on hand as it’ll effectively shatter any glass in its path. This saves time, which ultimately saves lives!
7) BigIDesign Bit Bar
One of the most frustrating things about needing a screwdriver to quickly tighten loose screws or install batteries in your kid’s toys is that often times, the bit that you need is not on the first screwdriver you grab. Sure, there are screwdrivers that come with exchangeable driver heads, but carrying a multi-head screwdriver around everywhere isn’t necessarily convenient!
Enter the Big I Design Bit Bar. This little multi-tool is a great replacement for the multi-head screw drivers in your house because it easily carries 8 different screwdriver heads to tackle anything that you come across. It’s small enough to keep in your pocket for EDC applications and even is made with a lanyard hole at the end of it to allow you to secure it to your pants pocket when you’re on the move.
8) Victorinox MiniChamp Alox
When it comes to EDC multi-tools, you can’t have a conversation about the best ones on the market without mentioning the GOAT of multi-tools: Victorinox. The best-known product made by Victorinox is their iconic Swiss Army Knife. The Mini Champ Alox is Victorinox’s next iteration of the wildly successful multi-tool, but in a smaller package!
This Mini Champ Alox comes with 15 tools that fold neatly into the tool for easy access no matter where you are. There are several different styles of knives built in so that you can choose the right tool for the job every time!
9) Gerber Armbar
Gerber makes a ton of exceptional EDC products. As mentioned earlier, they produce gear that is going to stand up to the harshest conditions no matter what. And if you need a tool that will provide you with a few more functions than the Gerber Shard, look no further than the Armbar. This great little tool comes with several functions, one of which is it turns into an actual long handled screwdriver. Most multi-tools that have driver heads usually are fairly difficult to use, especially when tightening multiple screws. The Armbar uses a smart design to make it one of the most functional screwdriver multi-tools out there!
10) Nite Ize DoohicKey
If you’re just testing out EDC and you don’t want to invest a bunch of money right off the bat, consider picking up a Nite Ize DoohicKey. This neat little tool comes with 5 tools built into one package that can easily clip onto your keychain for easy transportation. It’s lightweight and durable, making it a great entry level EDC multi-tool!
Final Thoughts
Alrighty! We’ve discussed several examples of the top tier pocket multi-tools that you should consider upgrading your EDC with. Like everything else in life, each has its own pros and cons. Try a few out to find the one that suits you best! After all, the best tool for the job is the one that gets used the most.
Another tool you should always carry in your pocket is a quality made wallet. Axwell wallets come with a lifetime warranty, so you only need to buy just one! View a selection of our best-selling Axwell Wallets.
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