EDC or Every Day Carry, are things you carry every day on your person, usually like your wallet, keys, however many people also add to these with tools like pocket knifes, multi-tools or multi-function tools, pens, pen-torches, and even tape measures.

Personally my EDC which is usually for work, usually consists of standard keys, and wallet but also a pen, torch a small tape measure and a multi-tool. However most people a will only need to add a multi-tool. I also usually carry a few eye glass wipes,  a few band aids and paramedical and Ibuprofen and maybe an extra pocket knife.

DeWALT multi-tool – MT16 / DWHT 71843

So which multi-tool is right for you. Well I personally can not answer that as every one has different requirements. But most people will only want / need pliers, a knife and maybe a couple screw drivers. If you are more in to the out doors life like camping, or hiking then maybe add the saw, serrated knife can opener etc.

So what is the best multi-tool to get and is it worth getting a Leatherman which can cost anywhere from $180.00 to $599.00 NZD or can you get away with a budget or another brand multi-tool to meet your needs and requirements.

There are other brands of multi-tools not just from knife companies but many of the tool brands we know now make multi-tools other than just Leatherman ie;

DeWALT, Fuller, Bahco, Powerbuilt, Trojan Tools and even Black & Decker etc.

There are also other companies in the game as well that basically clone one of the Leatherman.  ie; SOG, B/Bury, Gerber, Victorinox  etc but these are more expensive and I wouldn’t all them in the budget range. You can also get some really cheap multi-tools off Temu. (However buyer beware when you buy off Temu)

Unbranded Multi-tool

Model: 408-9113
Price: $10.00
Guarantee: none

Has all the standard tools you expect from a multi tool. However have no idea the longevity of tools and no info of type of steel used. Probable cheap soft steel to be honest. It is most likely made cheaply in China for mass production.

Comments:

• Nothing truly locks.
• A bit uncomfortable to use.
• There is a bit of play in the pliers.

Fuller Multi-tool

Fuller Multi-tool 13 piece

Model: 408-9113
SKU: 393582
Price: $16.18
Guarantee: Guaranteed Forever

With 13 tools in one this Multi-tool can easily solve different problems in daily life, like cutting ropes, opening boxes, bottles and cans, peeling and cutting fruits, cutting paper and stripping wires. No need for a Tool Box as one Tool handles all. At 105mm it is easy to store and keep in your pocket.

• Lightweight and portable
• Compact size and foldable design
• Induction hardened cutting edges.

https://www.mitre10.co.nz/shop/fuller-multitool/p/393582

Comments:

• Hard to get the tools open.

Fuller Multitool

Fuller Multi-tool 13 Piece

Model: 406-9113
SKU: 383883​
Price: $14.98
Guarantee: Guaranteed Forever

With 13 tools in one this Multi-tool can easily solve different problems in daily life, like cutting ropes, opening boxes, bottles and cans, peeling and cutting fruits, cutting paper and stripping wires. No need for a Tool Box as one Tool handles all. At 105mm it is easy to store and keep in your pocket.

• Lightweight and portable
• Compact size and foldable design
• Nylon pouch included.

https://www.mitre10.co.nz/shop/fuller-multitool/p/383883

Comments:

• Comes with a pouch.
• Hard to get the tools open.

Trojan MultiTool knife Set

Trojan 2 piece tool set – Multi-tool/Utility Knife

Price: $24.95
Model:
SKU:
Guarantee: Lifetime Warranty

• Folding Utility Knife
• 10 in 1 Multi Tool: Plier, Wire Cutter, Serrated Knife, Slotted Screwdriver, Sharp Knife, Double Tooth Saw, Ruler & File, Can Opener, Phillips Head Screwdriver, Straight Blade Knife

Bunnings appear to be currently out of stock so here but I have seen them on eBay

Comments:

• Comes with the utility knife.
• Doesn’t feel that great in hand but is usable.
• Hard to get the tools open.

Bahco Multitool

Bahco 18-in-1 Aluminium Foldable Multi-tool

Model: MTT151
SKU: 0237532
Price: $27.98
Guarantee: Lifetime Warranty

• Heavy duty aluminium body
• Anodized finish in orange
• 18 versatile functions
• Rust resistant stainless steel blades
• Hard durable canvas storage pouch with belt loop

With 18 versatile functions in one tool this has a wide variety of uses. Handy to have in the car or take with you everyday. The Multi Tool includes standard pliers, long nose pliers, wire cutter, wire stripper, knife, saw, large slotted screwdriver, medium slotted screwdriver, small slotted screwdriver, can opener and bottle opener, cross-head screwdriver, file/de-scaler/fishing hook remover/ruler and fine edge serrated blade.

https://www.bunnings.co.nz/bahco-18-in-1-aluminium-foldable-multitool_p0237532

Comments:

• Feel great in hand
• Looks good.
• Hard to get the tools open.

Powerbuilt Multi Function Tool

Powerbuilt 13 In 1 Multi Function Tool

Model:
SKU: CMS3449
Price: $38.44
Guarantee: Limited Lifetime Warranty

• Handy pocket size tool, great for use when space
• of a full range of tools is limited
• Includes long nose pliers, wire cutter, double serrated blade, slotted
• screwdriver, double cut file, single cut file, slotted screwdriver (small),
• can opener, large knife, ruler, fish scale, phillips screwdriver, bottle opener

https://nzfasteners.co.nz/products/powerbuilt-13-in-1-multi-function-tool-w-pouch?_pos=1&_sid=b80b30b56&_ss=rz

Comments:

• Feel great in hand.
• Looks good.
• Knife doesn’t truly lock.

Axminster Multi Tool with Leather Pouch

Model: LMT-1
SKU:
Price: $53.50
Guarantee:

27 tools in one! Our Multi-Tool features the following: Regular pliers; Scissor pliers; Needle nose pliers; Medium screwdriver; Can opener; Couple for connector; Phillips screwdriver; File / fish-scaler / hook remover; General purpose knife; Large flat head screwdriver / bottle opener; Small flat head screwdriver; Small knife. Constructed of stainless steel with wooden handles. Includes 11 screwdrivers + 1 socket and leather pouch.

This multitool from www.axminster.co.uk

https://www.carbatec.co.nz/product/31518-multi-tool-with-leather-pouch-

Comments:

• Feel great in hand
• Well made and has bit driver set.
• Looks good.
• Bulky

DeWalt multitool – MT16 / DWHT 71843

DeWalt 16 in 1 Multi-tool

Price: $52.98
Model: MT16 / DWHT 71843
SKU: DWHT71843
Guarantee: Guaranteed Forever

The Multi-Tool comes with a variety of tools to help you get the job done. Never be unprepared again. Easy open and easy tool access make this versatile tool ready for anything that comes your way.

• Stainless steel tools for long life and rust resistance
• Soft grip panels for comfort
• Durable construction withstands job-site usage
• Convenient storage.

https://www.mitre10.co.nz/shop/dewalt-16-in-1-multi-tool/p/326713

Comments:

• Feel great in hand
• Looks good.
• Pretty easy to open the tools.

CAT – Multitool knife and small pocket knife set.

Cat® 13-in-1 Multi-tool

Model: #980296
SKU: 980048
Price: $61.44
Guarantee:

Need a multi-function solution for serious work? The Cat® multi-function tool is your solution for work, play, outdoors, automotive, boat and RV, this companion is built with stainless-steel tools to resist corrosion in demanding environments. This sharp-looking multi tool backs up good lucks with utility to spare. Underneath the two-toned anodized aluminium skin is a multi-function solution for work, play, outdoors, automotive, boat and RV.

Thirteen useful tools are housed in a lightweight aluminium chassis. These stainless-steel tools resist corrosion, while the adjustable set screws let you tighten everything up as needed. The handles fold closed for compact storage between uses.

Tools include:

Long nose pliers, Pliers, Wire cutter, Bottle opener, Serrated knife, Slotted screwdrivers small and medium, Phillips screwdriver, Knife, Single cut and double cut files, Can opener, Saw

https://nzfasteners.co.nz/products/cat-13-in-1-multi-tool-folding-skeleton-knife-set

Comments

• Feels ok in hand.
• Looks good.
• Pretty easy to open the tools.
• Bulky.

This was my EDC or every day carry for long while till I got the Leatherman Sidekick.

Blak & Decker 12 n 1 Multi-tool

Model: BDHTO-28110
SKU: 980048
Price: $50.44 NZD
Guarantee:

For everyday use, durable stainless steel; all in one tool: universal pliers, wire cutter, mandrel, saw, file, centimetre size, 2 screwdrivers, 2 knives, can and bottle openers. Robust stainless steel 2-in-1 multi-purpose pliers, compact, foldable and pocket-size.Universal tongs and bottle opener

Tools include:

12 in 1 Multi Tool Universal pliers, wire scissors, small saw, small knife, large knife, bottle opener, pliers, 3 x screwdrivers.

Comments

• Feels ok in hand.
• Looks good.
• Pretty easy to open the tools.
• However tools don’t lock into position including knife.
• Pliers felt like there was grit in the bearings.
• There are better options for the price.

Gerber Suspension NXT + Paraframe Combo

Gerber Suspension NXT & Paraframe Combo

Model:  NXT Multitool
Price: $119.99
Guarantee:

Complete any task with the Suspension-NXT and Paraframe combo. Boasting an increased tool count of 15 in a smart everyday carry package, the Suspension-NXT is equipped with a pocket clip that is easily carried in pocket or on belt. This lightweight everyday carry Paraframe has an open frame that is the ultimate in minimalist design.

Suspension NXT Multi-tool

Real cross driver, Large, medium, small flathead drivers, Needle nose and regular pliers, 2.25 inch fine edge and partially serrated edge blade, Wire cutter and wire stripper, Awl, ruler, file, can opener and bottle opener

Paraframe Knife

High carbon stainless steel fine edge blade, Clip point blade style, One handed opening

https://www.huntingandfishing.co.nz/gerber-suspension-nxt-paraframe-combo

Comments:

• Feels ok in hand.
• Looks good.
• Pretty easy to open the tools.
• Has belt clip.
• No saw.

Leatherman Sidekick

Leatherman Sidekick

Model:  Sidekick
SKU:156866
Price: $179.99
Guarantee: 25 Year Guarantee.

The handy, outside accessible blades mean you can open the knife with just one hand. The rounded handles make it easy to get a grip around the spring-action jaws.

Made from Stainless Steel and backed by a 25-year warranty, as a first choice or convenient backup, you can’t beat the value of the Sidekick. Features: Lanyard Ring: Attaches tool securely to a lanyard.

Great for people who want to use their tool near water or on scaffolding Replaceable Pocket Clip: Allows you to wear your multi-tool attached to your pocket or belt loop without using a sheath Outside-accessible Features: Knife and saw blades can be accessed while the tool is folded or closed, for extra convenience One-hand Operable Features: Every tool can be opened and operated with one hand, so you can keep your other hand free Carabiner Accessory: Features hex bit driver and bottle opener

Made from Stainless Steel An improved, high-carbon (HC) form of 420 stainless steel. Its strength is optimised in Leatherman multi-tools by heat treatment. 25-year Warranty: Guarantees your Leatherman will give you many years of dependable service.

Tools include:

Spring-action Needle nose Pliers, Spring-action Regular Pliers, Spring-action Wire Cutters, Wire Stripper, 420HC Knife, 420HC Serrated Knife, Saw, Ruler (1.5 in | 3.8 cm), Can Opener, Bottle Opener, Wood/Metal File, Phillips Screwdriver, Medium Screwdriver, Small Screwdriver

https://leatherman.co.nz/collections/multi-tools/products/sidekick%C2%AE?variant=37268175749282

Comments: This is my every day carry and while I have tried others I keep coming back to one of my Leatherman’s.

Leatherman Free® P2

Model:  Free® P2
SKU:
Price: $359.99
Guarantee: 25 Year Guarantee.

Leatherman FREE P2

Every aspect of this multipurpose plier was designed with comfort, durability and ease-of-use in mind. All tools open smoothly with one hand and lock into place with a confident snap.

• All Locking Features All locking features means that every tool and knife on the body of the handle, with the exception of the plier head, will lock into place.
• Lanyard Ring This secure ring is for attaching the tool safely and securely to a lanyard.
• Replaceable Pocket Clip & Quick-release Lanyard Ring
• Outside-accessible Features This multi-tool features tools that are accessible while the tool is in its folded or closed position, mimicking the functionality of a pocket knife.
• One-hand Operable Features Every feature on this tool can be opened and operated with one hand.

CLOSED LENGTH 10.78 cm, WEIGHT 215.46 g, PRIMARY BLADE LENGTH 7.02 cm

Website: https://leatherman.co.nz/products/free-p2?_pos=1&_sid=5c4404481&_ss=r&variant=14413670350893

Comments: This is my every day carry and while I have tried others I keep coming back to one of my Leatherman’s.

Every Day Carry

So what is my “Every Day Carry”  mine is pretty simple and is tailored for work but carries over at home and out and about. I have my obvious mobile phone, keys and wallet. My keys are nothing special however my wallet is a carbon fibre “Ekster” card holder which has a RFID blocker (sometimes a money clip if I need cash). My wallet also carries a multi-tool card which to be fair and honest I have never used, but it is there and maybe one day.

I also carry a “Leatherman Side Kick” however for a long time I use to carry the “13-in-1 Multi-tool from Cat®” and then the “Gerber Suspension NXT”. I also did carry many of the others on this list for while to see how they were and to be honest they were fine. They all have good points and bad points. The main tools I use are the pliers, knife and maybe the odd occasion screwdriver etc .

My final item is a pen torch of some description. I mainly use this at work when doing a tool change on the press seeing behind it. I use to use my phone but I dropped in once and was lucky it didn’t break the screen. I would rather drop and break a $20.00 pen torch rather than my $600.00 phone. However sometimes when walking the dog early in the morning when it is still dark the torch comes in handy for “doggy do pickups” as well as telling the “Mitre” to hurry along. It always handy when you have a small torch handy to find things you have dropped, under the bed, desk, behind fridge or an dark spot around the house you have.

So how often do I use my mullti-tool. As stated above I mainly gets used at work and is mainly the pliers and knife. While I don’t use it every single day but it is quite often I will use the pliers during a tool change over on the press change or the knife when I am wrapping a pallet  or open a courier (yes I know we have box cutter knifes but they are not always handy) or a variety of other things. While yes there are pliers at work, and even knifes sometimes I don’t want to walk all the way back to the tool wall to get the pliers then all the way back to the press to continue the change over. (The workshop at work is huge btw.) So sometimes it just quicker to use the multi-tool.