MULTITOOL SHOWDOWN

TAKE A LOOK AT HOW THESE POPULAR TOOLS STACK UP

- ABE ELIAS

Often, I am asked why I carry a multitool and find myself struggling with the answer. My main problem is trying to give specific examples. So, as I was thinking this question through, I came up with a simple answer: “To fix or make things.”

If you are going to carry a multitool, the first tool you have to get used to using is the one between your ears. If you do not learn how to fix or make things, then you obviously do not see the need in carrying a multitool. Without the knowledge of how to fix things, items stay broken and you never see the repair. So, where everyday carry is concerned, multitools are of most use to people who know how to use tools.

Over the years, I have tested a number of multitools, and they range from tools that have knives on them to knives that have tools on them. In this article, I am looking at just a few models, some new, some tried and true. I have the Gerber Truss and Armbar Drive, the Victorinox SwissTool X Plus Ratchet, and the Leatherman Surge. Don’t worry—we will also sneak in a few of your favorites.

GERBER

I specifically got a Gerber Truss and an Armbar Drive. Both the Truss and Armbar come in at under $50 and represent a budget-minded approach to multitool carry.

The Armbar falls into the category of knife with some tools. In a way, it tends to be more of an industrial style version of a Swiss Army Knife with a scissors, bit driver, hammer (platform), and awl to go with the main razor edge blade.