Critical Multi-Tool Features for the Outdoors - By: Tom C. Huntington

Which features should a multi-tool have? Backpackers and survivalists can debate this question ad nauseum, and for good reason. Today's multi-tools offer an incredible array of features. From scissors to fishing hook removers, multi-tool accessories are wide ranging. What works for a backpacker may not be ideal for a fisherman, and what survivalists consider essential may not be important to the casual camper.

To clarify the situation, below a few multi-tool features generally considered important for any outdoor enthusiast.

Saw blade. A saw blade can come in handy in any number of situations, from cutting firewood to building traps and snares. In a few short moments, a saw blade can transform a knobby stick into the perfect walking aid.

Pliers. While in the wild, you can use pliers to pick up hot items, such as a singing teakettle. Pliers are also incredibly handy for removing splinters - just be sure you clean them or any other multi-tool accessories before using them to provide first aid. Finally, pliers may be used to bend metal items (such as pack frames and tent poles) back into shape.

Wire cutters. If you plan on fishing often, your multi-tool should include wire cutters. Wire cutters may be used to remove hooks from fish - and from your fellow fishermen. Hikers and backpackers may also find wire cutters useful in certain wilderness first aid situations. For instance, if a person's skin becomes trapped in a zipper, wire cutters can destroy the zipper and free the tender skin.

Scissors. A long-running debate among wilderness lovers is whether proper backpacking multi-tools should include scissors. Many survivalists believe scissors are unnecessary provided the multi-tool already includes a knife blade. And because every ounce counts when you're carrying a 60-pound pack over miles of uneven terrain, many claim that scissors just add dead weight to multi-tools. However, there are certain times when scissors are extremely handy. Detailed jobs, such as sewing tears in tents and clothing, are easier when you have a pair of scissors available. Finally, scissors may be used for cutting away hangnails, which can easily become infected if they are torn off while on the trail.

Flat-edge blade. No multi-tool is complete without a good, sharp knife blade. You'll find yourself using this attachment for everything from preparing food to cutting cord to whittling wood.

Lanyard hole. A lanyard hole allows you to attach your multi-tool to a cord, which you can then loop onto your pack. This will help you keep your multi-tool handy on the trail. If you're the type of person who tends to lose items easily, a lanyard hole is an especially useful multi-tool feature.

Screwdriver. If your gear is technically advanced, chances are it contains screws that will occasionally need tightening. The screwdriver attachment is also a good idea for hikers who wear glasses. If your glasses happen to come unscrewed on the trail, your screwdriver attachment will be a true godsend.

File. This is one attachment that most backpackers agree is not necessary in a multi-tool. A file is helpful for woodworking, but it just adds unnecessary weight to a backcountry multi-tool.

Can/bottle opener. Imagine this: You finally reach your camping spot for the night, after six miles of grueling hiking, only to realize that you have no way to open that can of beans you brought along. Even worse, you can't even crack open a cold one. It is hard to improvise a way to accomplish these tasks. Can and bottle opener features are beneficial for most multi-tool users.

Locking mechanisms. One thing to look for in a multi-tool is a secure locking mechanism. If your attachments can't stay locked securely in place, they may suddenly close on a tender finger.

Toothpick. This is one multi-tool feature most backpackers can do without. First, who wants to watch a companion picking at his or her teeth by firelight? Moreover, toothpicks found on multi-tools are generally not very clean; the inside of your multi-tool can easily pass on germs and cause gum infections if you're not vigilant about toothpick cleanliness. On the other hand, a toothpick can be an invaluable poking tool for clearing clogged stoves.

From scissors to toothpicks, today's multi-tools offer a cornucopia of features. Which ones you need will depend on which outdoor activities you prefer. In general, backpacking multi-tools should amount to no more than five ounces in weight; any more than this, and you'll feel like you're lugging around a car battery with you on the trail.

About the Author

For all of you outdoor enthusiasts, it is always smart to have a great multi-tool or two on hand. For a selection of quality multi-tools that can be used in a variety of different situations, take a look at the website for Coast Products, a leading manufacturer and distributor of multi-tools, LED lights, and sporting knives, at http://www.CoastPortland.com.

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