After the long week that I just worked, I’m thinking of going on a hike in the great outdoors. When planning to get out there and breathe some fresh air I generally always ask myself  “What could go wrong?” Lots! So basically that’s where I think a solid multi-tool comes into play. Because you should be prepared for almost anything like:

1. Emergency repairs: Whether it’s a broken strap on your pack or a ripped seam on your tent, a multi-tool can help you make quick repairs in the field.
2. Preparation of food: A multi-tool with a knife or scissors can come in handy for preparing food, whether it’s slicing up vegetables for a backcountry meal or opening a package of jerky.
3. First aid: Many multi-tools come with a small pair of tweezers, which can be useful for removing splinters or ticks.
4. Self-defense: In a worst-case scenario, a multi-tool with a blade can serve as a last line of defense against wild animals.
5. General utility: There are countless other tasks that a multi-tool can help with, such as tightening screws, cutting rope, or opening bottles.

For sure there are a plethora of multi-tools on the market. Some are specifically built for a type of use. So that’s when you would ask yourself “What are my needs? But then you realize they are all pretty similar so then it comes down to what looks cool and the build quality. Here is a list that I put together that should help you figure out what is the best multi-tool for your next hiking adventure but my personal pic that I carry is the Leatherman Signal. Why? Because I can start a fire, you never know.

LEATHERMAN FREE P2 MULTI-TOOL

• Magnetic Closing System
  

  Brand new and easily accessible tools can be accessed effortlessly.

• One-Handed Operation

  Access to all the tools is great for when you are working on a project and you only have one hand available to get the job done. Additionally there are 19 essential tools built into the Leatherman Free P2 and it has a convenient pocket clip.

• Multi-Tool Tools

  Premium replaceable Hard-Wire Cutters, Electrical Crimper, Wire Stripper, 420HC Combo Knife, Spring-action Scissors, Package Opener, Awl, Can Opener, Bottle Opener, Wood/Metal File, Phillips Screwdriver, Medium Screwdriver, Small Screwdriver, Extra-Small Screwdriver, Pry Tool, Ruler (1.41 in | 25 mm)

LEATHERMAN SIGNAL MULTI-TOOL

• Designed For The Outdoors

  The Signal Leatherman strikes back with its fire-starting ferro rod, 420HC combo blade and an emergency whistle. The Signal might be the Best Multi-Tool For Hiking because it was made for outdoor activities.

• One-Handed Operation

  Access only requires one hand to open and use all the tools, even the ones that aren’t accessible from the outside. With all-locking features you can multitask with confidence and it is also equipped with a pocket clip and carabiner so it’s always within reach. Clip it on your backpack or in your pocket.

• Multi-Tool Tools

  Needle Nose Pliers, Regular Pliers, Premium Replaceable Wire Cutters, Premium Replaceable Hard-Wire Cutters, Wire Stripper, 420HC Combo Knife, Saw, Hammer, Awl w/ Thread Loop, Can Opener, Bottle Opener, 1/4” Hex Bit Drive, Bit Driver, 1/4″ Box Wrench, Carabiner, 3/16″ Box Wrench, Safety Whistle, Ferrocerium Rod, Diamond-Coated Sharpener

GERBER GEAR DIESEL MULTI-TOOL

• Industrial Strength

  Components that are larger and stronger an certainly capable of tackling the toughest jobs. With 15 total tools, the Diesel has everything you need to get the job done. Overall the Diesel is one of the most versatile and capable multitools on the market.

• One-Handed Operation

  One-handed deployment is what the Gerber Diesel is one of those features that makes this multi-tool worth its weight in your hand. Countless times I have been on a ladder and I was able to use the Diesel’s pliers with no problem.

• Multi-Tool Tools

  Needle-Nose Pliers, Partially Serrated Knife Blade, Cross Point Screwdriver, Small-Medium and Large Flat Blade Screwdrivers, Can Opener File, Bottle Openers, File, Saw, Scissors, Fully Locking Blades

SOG POWERPINT MULTI-TOOL

• Ultra-Compact Multi-Tool Design

  The Sog PowerPint allows me to put every essential tool I need into any pocket I want. The PowerPint might be right up there with the Signal for Best Multi-Tool For Hiking for its compact design.

• Patented Compound Leverage

  Proprietary SOG tech gives you twice the power of ordinary multi-tool pliers.

• 1/4″ Magnetic Hex Bit Holder

  Use a 1/4” hex bit kit to customize and expand your PowerPint multi-tool loadout

• Multi-Tool Tools

  Pliers/Gripper, Knife Blades (2), Screwdrivers (2), File, Scissors, Can/Bottle Openers, Wire Cutters, Line Cutter, Jewelry Driver, Awl, Ruler, Protractor, and Hex Bit Holder