When preparing for outdoor adventures, most hikers remember to pack a reliable knife and other basic essentials, but many overlook the value of a multi-tool. A good multi-tool can be a lifesaver in the wilderness, offering everything from quick fixes on your gear to providing basic first-aid. In this post, we’ll highlight our top multi-tool picks for 2025, perfect for backpacking, camping, and survival situations.
Leatherman Wave+
The Leatherman Wave+ is a well-loved classic, often regarded as one of the best all-around multi-tools available. Weighing in at 8.5 oz (240.97 g), it comes with 18 tools, including pliers, scissors, a saw, a file, and a strong 420HC stainless steel knife. While it’s not meant for heavy-duty tasks like batoning, the knife is perfect for food preparation and lighter bushcraft tasks.
One feature we appreciate is the ability to open the blade with one hand, making it quick and easy to use in emergencies. The Wave+ lacks a pocket clip, but that’s an easy addition if you prefer one. For anyone seeking a reliable multi-tool for both everyday carry and outdoor adventures, the Leatherman Wave+ is hard to beat.
Leatherman Signal
Designed with outdoor enthusiasts in mind, the Leatherman Signal is equipped with tools that are perfect for survival situations. In addition to the standard pliers, scissors, and saw, the Signal includes a built-in ferro rod for fire starting, a hammer for pounding tent stakes, and a safety whistle for emergencies.
While the serrated blade may not be to everyone’s liking, it’s a useful feature for cutting through tough materials. This tool is ideal for anyone who spends time in the wilderness and wants a multi-tool that’s tailored to outdoor survival needs.
Gerber Armbar Trade
If you’re looking for a minimalist multi-tool that’s lightweight yet functional, the Gerber Armbar Trade is an excellent choice. Weighing only 3.1 oz (98 g), it’s perfect for light tasks around camp or quick fixes on the go. While it lacks pliers and scissors, it includes essential tools like a saw, pry bar, and screwdriver with interchangeable bits.
The Armbar Trade’s small size makes it incredibly portable, and its frame-locked blade is handy for food prep and light bushcraft. It’s a no-frills, affordable option that provides great value for anyone looking for a simple tool to carry in their pack.
Leatherman Skeletool CX
For those who want a lightweight, compact multi-tool without sacrificing utility, the Leatherman Skeletool CX is a great option. It comes with a straight-edge blade, pliers, wire cutters, and a carabiner/bottle opener. Weighing just 5 oz (141.75 g), the Skeletool CX is an excellent choice for anyone looking to reduce pack weight while still having access to key tools.
If you prefer a serrated blade, consider the standard Skeletool model, which has a partially serrated 420HC stainless steel blade. The Skeletool CX offers a more durable blade, but it comes at a slightly higher price point.
Victorinox Fieldmaster
The Victorinox Fieldmaster is a great all-around tool that balances compactness with functionality. At 3.5 oz (99 g), it’s lightweight and versatile, featuring 15 tools, including a wood saw, scissors, and screwdrivers. It’s perfect for light tasks around camp or for general outdoor use.
However, as with all Swiss knives, it lacks a blade lock, so caution is needed when using it for heavier tasks. Despite this, it’s a classic, reliable tool that’s easy to use and perfect for hikers who want a dependable tool without the extra bulk.
Leatherman Rebar
For those seeking a rugged, no-nonsense multi-tool, the Leatherman Rebar is a fantastic option. Weighing 6.7 oz (189.94 g), it includes 17 tools, such as pliers, saws, files, and screwdrivers. The Rebar excels in reliability, with a locking mechanism that secures the knife for heavy tasks like bushcraft.
The only downside is the difficulty of accessing the blade one-handed, as it’s hidden inside the plier handles. Nonetheless, the Rebar is a great tool for anyone who needs a solid, durable multi-tool that can handle a variety of tasks in the wild.
Gerber MP600
The Gerber MP600 stands out for its one-handed plier deployment, allowing you to quickly open and use the tool in any situation. At 9 oz (255 g), it’s heavier than most tools on this list, but it makes up for it with its versatility. The MP600 includes pliers, screwdrivers, a can opener, and two knives, one serrated and one straight, all with Gerber’s Saf.T. Plus locking mechanism.
Although it’s not as lightweight or compact as other models, the MP600 is a reliable, rugged multi-tool for anyone who needs a bit more heft and a wide variety of tools in their kit.
Leatherman Micra
The Leatherman Micra is a tiny powerhouse of a tool, weighing just 1.8 oz (51.03 g). Despite its small size, it packs several useful features, including scissors, a knife, tweezers, screwdrivers, and a file. It’s perfect for day-to-day carry or as a backup tool in your pack.
While it’s not suited for heavy-duty tasks like the Leatherman Signal, the Micra is an impressive multi-tool that’s compact and lightweight enough to always have on hand.
Victorinox Rambler
If you’re a minimalist, the Victorinox Rambler is the ideal multi-tool for you. This keychain tool is extremely lightweight at just 1.1 oz (30 g) but still manages to pack essential functions like scissors, a knife, screwdrivers, tweezers, and a toothpick. It’s perfect for small tasks or as a secondary tool alongside a larger multi-tool.
Although the Rambler is not meant for serious outdoor use, it’s a great option for anyone who wants a compact, simple tool for everyday carry.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a survivalist, or someone who enjoys the occasional outdoor adventure, having the right multi-tool can make a world of difference. From heavy-duty options like the Leatherman Wave+ to compact and lightweight tools like the Victorinox Rambler, there’s a multi-tool out there to fit every need.
So, which one is your go-to tool for backpacking and survival situations? Let us know in the comments!
