A Multi Tool Is So Versatile

The problem you have with a multi tool is that if you go for all the bells and whistles you possibly can then you end up with a significantly weighty tool. On the other hand, not enough tools and you end up with out a really useful tool, and you can bet that the one tool that you need is the one you chose not to get.
So the point here is to go for a happy medium, all the most commonly used tools, lightweight, and handy that will not weigh your pocket down. After all if you are going to get a multi tool you don't want to be put off carrying it around because it is too heavy, or because there is no point in it because it is too limited.
So what options do you have?
Well a knife is the most common tool that you are likely to use, there will be countless times when you will be glad you had it, things like cutting string in the garden, opening packaging, cutting twigs and smaller branches if you are outdoors. The list is endless, and some multi tools come with a selection of knives, others come with just one, you could get a decent penknife if this is all you are going to use it for.
The diagram below shows you just how compact these multi tools are, and what can be packed into them. I thought this would give you a good idea of what we are talking about as we go through the different gadgets on board.

So the front end is where you will find the pliers, usually both regular, and needle nosed are found on good tools such as this. Behind those you will find wire cutters, this is very useful in a variety of situations, from gardening to camping, after all wire can be a real pain if you need to cut it and you have nothing to use.
A screwdriver, or bit driver is housed at the bottom, these too are fairly standard, you often get a Philips and a straight head, there is nothing worse than only having one, the one you want will always be the one you do not have!
Then there is the bottle opener, on some you will also get a can opener too, but this diagram shows the very lightweight Leatherman Skeletool.
So this is the basics you will find with most multi tools, they then cleverly fold down so that everything is neatly enclosed, on thing to look out for is having the ability to use the knife attachment without having to unfold the whole thing, very useful if you need to use it quickly and don't want to be fumbling around.
So let's take a look at some of the different brands, and options, available from the best selling multi tools.

This seems like the best one to start with because the diagram is above. It is the most lightweight