Survival Multi-Tools are really just multi-tools that can be used in a variety of different situations whether it’s EDC and everyday use or for more outdoorsy situations like camping, hiking and fishing.
What’s great about multi-tools is that they are small enough so that you can keep them in your pocket but provide such functionality that you often can often find upwards of 10-20 tools all in one tiny light little couple-inch space.
With the metric ton of survival multi-tools available on the market, it can be hard to decide which one you should get. Although some products have more functions and tools than others, we’ve done a little digging and picked our favorites.
Best Survival Multi Tools List
- Best Overall Survival Multi Tool – Victorinox Swiss Army Multi-Tool
- Best Survival Leatherman – Leatherman Surge Heavy Duty Multitool
- Best EDC Leatherman – SOG PowerAssist Multi-Tool
- Best Premium Multi Tool – Leatherman Wave Plus Multi-Tool
- Best for Emergency Bag – RoverTac Multitool Camping Survival accessory
- Best Exoskeleton Design – Gerber Suspension Multi-Plier
- Best Budget Option – Victorinox Swiss Army Classic SD Knife
Best Multi Tools For Surviving the Wild
1. Victorinox Swiss Army Multi-Tool
Best Overall Survival Multi Tool
Price: $$
Dimension: 1.13 inch H x 3.6 inch L
Weight: 6.33 oz
Material: Steel
Pros: Multi-function (33 Tools), Lifetime guarantee, Swiss made,
Cons: Does not feature a locking blade
Description: If you’re looking for a survival tool, look no further. The Victorinox Swiss Army Multi-Tool is the ultimate all in one survival tool. It has 33 blade functions and includes a steel ABS coating to protect it from rusting or corrosion. This multi-tool can be used as an emergency seatbelt cutter, wire stripper, screwdriver, ruler, bottle opener, pen, and more
You’ll never have to worry about being unprepared again with this handy device and if you’re not satisfied with your purchase they offer a lifetime warranty so that if anything happens you are covered. So what are you waiting for?
2. Leatherman Surge Heavy Duty Multitool
Best Survival Leatherman
Price: $$$
Dimension: 5.3 x 3.6 x 1.97 inches
Weight: 0.9 Pounds
Material: Black Oxide
Pros: Multi-function (21), 25-year warranty, heavy duty tool, larger blades, one hand openeing
Cons: Slightly bulky
Description: The Leatherman Surge Heavy Duty Multitool is the perfect choice for any outdoor die hards. This 21 function tool includes wire cutters as well as 4 opening blades. It’s made of high-quality stainless steel with an ergonomic design so you can hold it comfortably.
A Leatherman is a your every man tool that can be used in just about any enviroment and situation. Leathermans more than carry their own in the outdoors, as you dont have to worry about needing to bring a bunch of other tools with you, because one of these guys has it all. To top it off it is covere by Leatherman’s 25-year warranty so you can be sure it will last.
3. SOG PowerAssist Multi-Tool
Best EDC Leatherman
Price: $$
Dimension: 7 x 1.9 x 0.77 inches
Weight: 9.6 Ounces
Material: 420 Stainless Steel
Pros: Comes with a Sheath, Blade lock function, Great torque on pliers, Patended funcitonality, Easy to open, Compound leverage
Cons: No saw, No pocket clip
Description: This 16 tool component multi-tool is built using SOGs 420 stainless steel that is finished with satin polish. It includes 2 knives one with a straightedge that is 2.75 inches together with a serrated blade supported with a spring mechanism.
SOG has merged their multi-tool prowess with a decent survival knife that can rival any of its rivals. It has assisted opening and some extra bit of tech that gives you extra leverage for using the pliers.
Made of black oxide material, This multitool is coated so as to give you a corrosion-free finish. The PowerAssist is crafted from stainless steel with noteworth tools such as needle nose pliers, an adjustable wrench, nail file and bottle opener. It is not as heavy duty as the leatherman Surge but at about half the price we feel its a good alternative.
4. Leatherman Wave Plus Multi Tool
Best Premium Multi Tool
Price: $
Dimension: 4 x 1.5 x 0.8 inches
Weight: 0.7 Pounds
Material: Stainless Steel
Pros:Multi-function (18), 25 Year Warranty, Nylon sheath, All tools have locking features, Laynard ring
Cons: Screwdrivers might be uncomfortable to hold except when pliers are open
Description: The Leatherman wave plus is an everymans tool with a fresh upgrade from standard Leathermans. One of the notable changes is that there are replaceable wire cutters.Comes with a nylon carrying case and can be found in oxide black or their traditional stainless steel
It packs 18 tools that will be needed, including pliers, replaceable wire cutters, wire stripper, knives, saw, spring-action scissors, screwdrivers and more. The company offers a 25-year warranty so you can be sure Leatherman wants to make a well made product.
The Wave Plus has one handed opening with this bad boy and is Leathermans best selling multi tool they have.
5. RoverTac Multitool Camping Survival accessory
Best for Emergency Bag
Price: $
Dimension: 7 x 3 x 1
Weight: 15 oz
Material: Stainless Steel
Pros: Multifunction(14), Comes with a Sheath,
Cons: Tools are tiny, and the ax would not be able to split firewood
Description: RoverTac Multi-Tool Camping accessories is a heavy-duty lightweight tool allows you to carry everything you are going to need on an outdoor outing in one tool.
You can use this tool for anything from cutting rope to hammering in stakes or cutting branches. The RoverTac Multi-Tool offers 14 different tools in the kit including a: hatchet, hammer, knife blade, wire cutter, and a hex wrench.
What makes this multi tool different from the rest is that it has a hatchet and a hammer and is a bit heavier and bulkier than the traditional leathermans. What we like about this that you can throw this in your go bag easily rather than having to carry everythin seperate.
6. Gerber Suspension Multi-Plier
Best Exoskeleton Design
Price: $
Dimension: 4 x 1 x 6
Weight: 9.6 oz
Material: Stainless Steel
Pros: Multi-function (12), Strong grip, Safety lock, Nylon sheath, Rust-proof, Great price
Cons: Pliers are loose on side ends, Weak Pouch/sheaths
Description: Gerber Suspension Multi-Plier has a cool exoskeleton minimalist design multi-tool that includes 12 different tools, including a saw blade, bottle opener, scissors, plain and serrated blades, with a screwdriver, pliers and a wire cutter.
It’s enhanced with Saf.T.Plus safety mechanism to keep your hands off the tool while it`s perfectly locked in place. They do offer a limited warranty which can include replacing most of the parts without too much fuss.
Gerber brand is one of the most reliable and well-known manufacturers out there with a stellar reputation for survival gear, especially for their knives.
7. Victorinox Swiss Army Classic SD Knife
Best Budget Option
Price: $
Dimension: 2.98 x 0.71 x 0.35
Weight: 0.6 ounces
Material: Stainless Steel
Pros: Small, Good for those on a budget, Lifetime warranty, Lightweight
Cons: Cannot cut hardwood
Description: The Victorinox Swiss Army Classic SD Knife is a classic. Swiss Army Knives are one of the most recognizable multi-tool brands in the world. And there is a reason why, as it does what it is supposed – well.
It’s made of high-quality steel that resists corrosion and rust and has 5 different tools, including scissors, screwdriver and nail files.
It’s structured as a pocket knife with an elegant design that the brand is known for. Though this tool does not have as many functions as a leatherman, it is much smaller, lighter and is for someone who wants more of a pocket knife.
What to Look Out for When Buying a Survival Multi-Tool?
There are certain features you should look for while purchasing a multi-tool to ensure that you make the best market choice. Some of them are:
Durability
This is a no-brainer. You want something that is going to last and long enough so that it won’t fail you when you find yourself in a pinch.
The best way to test this is by looking at the materials that were used in its construction. Better quality multi-tools (ie. stainless steel wit) will last much longer than cheaper ones made with weaker metals or plastics, for example.
Short-term durability is another component, which looks at how much-sustained force it can take. For example, you might find yourself in an emergency situation where you need to exert a lot of force on this piece of gear; you want to make sure it won’t break right at the wrong moment.
Functionality
What kind of tools comes with the multi-tool?
You need to think about which items will actually be useful for you. Some multi-tools are too bulky and create excess weight, while others have all sorts of unnecessary bits that are not really necessary.
What you need will be more dependent upon your skillset more than anything else. If you are McGuyver-esque you are more than likely only need a paperclip to survive in the woods, however, if you are a suburban living dad, maybe you are going to need more 😉
Size
What you are looking to use the tool for will likely help determine the size you want. If you are going trekking or only on any excursion you are going to want something light and multi-functional.
If you are looking for something more techie, durable and perhaps even for self-defense then something with more weight, size perhaps with a longer blade will be useful.
Cost
Just like most products and tools out there, price is often what distinguishes great products from pieces of crap. The ideal is to find something right in the middle, that doesn’t break the bank but isn’t some dollar store cheapo.
When it comes to most tools and gear we tend to look more at quality than anything else. As what’s the point of buying something if it’s going to break in a years time?
Check out: Best Survival Masks
Conclusion
And that’s a wrap. If you looking to find the “best survival tool” having an idea of what you are looking to use it for will go a long way in finding what may be best for you.
