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Gear Reviews 8 min read

Best Multi-Tools for Camping

One tool, endless possibilities. We tested the best camping multi-tools that combine functionality with reliability for backcountry problem-solving.

Best Multi-Tools for Camping

A quality multi-tool is the unsung hero of campsite problem-solving. Trim tent stakes, repair gear, prepare food, tackle unexpected issues. The market has evolved beyond basic red knives—modern options combine functionality with thoughtful engineering.

Methodology

I tested each multi-tool on actual camping trips. Blade sharpness, tool reliability, build quality, practical usability. Food prep, gear repairs, firewood processing, general camp tasks. All rankings consider weight, pocket appeal, and whether tools feel gimmicky or genuinely useful.

Our Top Picks

1. Leatherman Wave+ - Around $120-130

The gold standard

Leatherman’s Wave+ has 18 tools including needle-nose pliers, wire cutters, knife blade, saw, and screwdrivers. One-handed opening knife and pliers. All tools lock. Military adopted this for a reason—it handles serious emergencies.

This is what I carry.

  • Weight: 4.3 oz
  • Tool count: 18 functions
  • Primary blade: 420 stainless steel
  • Locking: Yes (all tools)
  • Best for: Serious campers, car camping, basecamp operations

2. Victorinox Huntsman - Around $40-50

Lightweight Swiss precision

The Huntsman proves Swiss engineering works for camping. 3.2 oz. Blade, saw, bottle opener, can opener, scissors, tweezers in iconic red design. Locking blade. Compact size means it actually lives in your pocket. Replacement parts available worldwide.

  • Weight: 3.2 oz
  • Tool count: 11 functions
  • Primary blade: 420 stainless steel
  • Locking: Blade only
  • Best for: Ultralight backpackers, minimalists

3. Gerber Suspension-NXT - Around $100

Heavy-duty performer

The Gerber Suspension-NXT brings industrial capability to portable form. 5.1 oz. 15 tools including full-size lock-blade, adjustable wrench, heavy-duty pliers. Smooth deployment. Carabiner clip for pack attachment. If you’re processing firewood or making repairs, the Gerber executes where lighter tools fail.

  • Weight: 5.1 oz
  • Tool count: 15 functions
  • Primary blade: 420J2 stainless steel
  • Locking: Full tool locking
  • Best for: Heavy camp work, firewood processing

4. SOG PowerLock - Around $85

Efficient minimalism

SOG’s PowerLock concentrates on tools that matter. 3.8 oz. Spring-loaded pliers, blade, saw, screwdrivers—skipping bottle openers and nail files you’ll never use. PowerLock mechanism locks all open tools simultaneously. Faster access to what you need.

  • Weight: 3.8 oz
  • Tool count: 10 functions
  • Primary blade: AUS-8A stainless steel
  • Locking: Full tool locking
  • Best for: Pragmatic campers, minimalists, frequent users

5. Leatherman Skeletool CX - Around $75

Stripped-down essentials

The Skeletool CX removes excess to create excellence. 2.1 oz titanium. Only the tools you need: knife, pliers, screwdriver, can opener. Minimal design means faster access and lighter weight. Titanium eliminates corrosion concerns.

If you’re counting ounces but refuse to abandon multi-tool capability, this is your answer.

  • Weight: 2.1 oz
  • Tool count: 7 functions
  • Primary blade: 420 stainless steel
  • Locking: Blade and pliers
  • Best for: Ultralight backpackers, titanium believers

6. Victorinox SwissTool Spirit X - Around $130

Swiss premium alternative

The SwissTool Spirit X competes with Leatherman at the premium tier. 26 functions. Magnetic Phillips bit holder. All tools accessible without opening pliers. Superior finish quality. If you prefer Swiss engineering over American, this is your Wave+ alternative.

  • Weight: 7.4 oz
  • Tool count: 26 functions
  • Primary blade: Stainless steel
  • Locking: All tools
  • Best for: Swiss tool enthusiasts, premium quality seekers

Blade Steel Comparison

Different stainless steel alloys affect performance:

  • 420 (Victorinox standard): Easier to sharpen, moderate edge retention
  • AUS-8A (SOG standard): Better edge retention, trickier sharpening
  • 420J2 (Gerber standard): Good balance, widespread availability

All are durable for camping. Choose based on sharpening comfort and field maintenance tolerance.

Pro Tips

  • Keep it accessible: Pocket clip or pack attachment means you’ll actually use it
  • Maintain the blade: Dull blade = useless blade. Carry a small sharpening stone
  • Lubricate regularly: Oil moving parts to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation
  • Don’t abuse pliers: Multi-tool pliers aren’t for crushing or heavy leverage
  • Clean after meals: Food residue attracts pests and corrodes edges

Final Thoughts

Ultralight backpackers: Victorinox Huntsman or Skeletool CX preserve ounces. Weekend car campers: embrace the Leatherman Wave+ for comprehensive capability. Weight-conscious minimalists: SOG PowerLock hits the efficiency sweet spot.

A quality multi-tool transforms you from visitor to capable camper. Problems that seem frustrating with bare hands become simple challenges. That confidence might be the tool’s greatest contribution.

Pack smart.