Multitasking with the Multi-Tool
By Desiree Weeks
Who doesn't love a multi-tool?
A multi-tool is a handheld device that can perform a variety of functions in one easy-to-carry piece. You can find them as small as a keychain or in larger sizes to carry in a pocket or bag.
While it might seem like a modern concept, the idea of a multi-tool dates back to the Middle Roman times, with many of them being used for eating. Of course, one of the most iconic examples of a multi-tool is the Swiss Army knife. First produced in 1891, the Swiss Army knife generally features a drop-point blade along with other tools such as a screwdriver, can opener, saw blade, and a pair of scissors.
Today, multi-tools are available for a wide range of purposes. Here are just a few examples of the useful multi-tools you can find at BudK!
Black Truss Multi-Tool
One multi-tool that is sure to have everything you need is the Black Truss Multi-Tool. Made of steel, this multi-tool has spring-loaded needle nose pliers along with standard pliers, wire cutter, fine edge blade, serrated blade, scissors, saw, real cross driver, small, medium, and large flatheads, can opener, bottle opener, awl, file, ruler, and wire stripper. While that certainly is a lot of tools, they’re all housed within this compact tool that also features a lanyard hole and tool lock.
SHTF 20-In-1 Multi-Tool
A fun keychain size multi-tool is the SHTF 20-In-1 Multi-Tool. As the name states, this multi-tool has 20 tools in one with a revolving disc. The tools include a bottle opener, cutting blade, pry bar, wire stripper, nail cleaner, box opener, large flat driver, medium flat driver, eyeglass screwdriver, medium Phillips screwdriver, small Phillips screwdriver, bicycle spoke wrench, measuring ruler, 1/4" wrench, 5/6” wrench, 3/8” wrench, 1/2" wrench, and a 9/16” wrench. Not only is it functional, it’s a good looking piece made of 420 grade black stainless steel and gold titanium rotating disc. With its quick release carabiner, this is one multi-tool that’s literally built with portability in mind.
Kissing Crane Burnt Bone Camp Dining Tool
While this tool may not be the first thing you think of when someone says “multi-tool”, it’s certainly something useful that everyone could use. The Kissing Crane Burnt Bone Camp Dining Tool has a sharp blade along with a spoon and fork, all housed within an attractive genuine burn bone handle. It also has an integrated bottle/can opener, making it the perfect camping companion. Each tool is made from CrMoV17 stainless steel and can be separated into three pieces for easy use. Never worry about being with utensils by the campfire again!
Trailblazer Torque Driver Multi-Tool
Another carabiner style multi-tool is the Trailblazer Torque Driver Multi-Tool. You’ll be ready to fix anything with this tool, which includes two standard Phillips hex bits and two standard flat head hex bits that can be easily removed. The torque driver can be removed to help access the bits and it can be adapted to an angle driver using the small hex wrench on the base. Also, on the stainless steel base is a 10mm hex wrench, oxygen bottle wrench, bottle opener and carabiner tab. As if all of that wasn’t enough, it also has a built-in LED flashlight.
Trailblazer Survival Multi-Tool Card
If you’re looking for something a bit outside of the box, check out the Trailblazer Survival Multi-Tool Card. This 3 1/2" x 2” card is a must-have for survivalists and easily fits inside a wallet or bug out bag. The card, made of flexible aluminum, has an arrow head, ripping saw, fine saw, three snare hooks, three fishing hooks, three treble fish hooks, two sewing needles, and a spear tip. Each tool is super easy to remove.