This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission when you buy through our links — at no extra cost to you.
Many multitools claim to be trail-ready, but in practice they add unnecessary weight or fail when you need them most. This guide cuts through the noise to highlight the models that actually balance essential functions with pack-friendly weight.
Whether you need a saw for firewood or scissors for first aid, the right choice depends on your priorities. A 3-ounce Swiss Army knife handles most camp tasks, while a plier-based tool adds leverage for gear repairs at the cost of extra ounces.
The best multitool for backpacking is the one that fits your specific trip needs without weighing you down.
Best for Hiking and Camp Use
Victorinox Huntsman
The Huntsman combines a wood saw and sharp scissors in a compact frame that weighs 3.4 ounces. Blades come sharp from the factory, and the build feels solid without play. The saw cuts small branches efficiently, and the scissors handle food prep and first aid tasks without snagging.
This SAK suits backpackers who want campsite essentials without the extra weight of plier-based multitools. The lack of pliers and a locking blade means heavy gripping or one-hand cutting is off the table, but for cutting cordage, opening cans, and trimming wood, it covers the basics well. Some units may show minor cosmetic scratches, but that doesn’t affect function.
Pros
- Solid construction and sharp blades straight from the box.
- Saw and scissors cover campsite cutting tasks without adding weight.
- Good value for the price with Swiss-made quality.
Cons
- Occasional cosmetic scratches on arrival – not a functional issue.
- No pliers – limited for heavy gripping or wire work.
For backpackers prioritizing saw and scissors over pliers, the Huntsman is a capable, lightweight companion.
Best for Camp and Diy
Leatherman Wave+
With 18 tools including replaceable wire cutters and a 25-year warranty, the Wave+ offers a tool set that outmatches most competitors. Its 8.5 oz weight and reports of pliers snapping under load mean it suits serious outdoor work and tradespeople rather than backpackers seeking a lightweight companion.
Pros
- Comprehensive 18-tool set includes saw, scissors, and replaceable wire cutters
- Replaceable wire cutters extend the tool’s service life
Cons
- Weighs 8.5 oz, which is noticeable when carrying for extended hikes
- Pliers can snap under moderate stress – worth checking the unit individually
Serves tradespeople and car campers well; backpackers should consider lighter options with fewer tools.
Best for Hiking with Saw
Victorinox Hiker
At 2.7 ounces, the Hiker is the lightest Victorinox model to include a wood saw — a tool that handles branches and small logs with surprising efficiency. This makes it a natural fit for day hikers and backpackers focused on fire prep or trail clearing. The Phillips screwdriver replaces the traditional corkscrew, which suits those who prefer a driver over a wine opener. The tradeoff is clear: no scissors. First aid tasks like cutting tape or trimming fabric, and food prep jobs such as snipping herbs or opening packages, require a separate tool. The saw can manage some of these, but not with the precision scissors offer. Some units may arrive with cosmetic scratches on the scales; these don’t affect function but are worth inspecting upon delivery.
Choose the Hiker if you need a saw for lightweight camping and don’t mind carrying a separate pair of scissors for first aid and kitchen tasks. The top pick in this set (the Huntsman) adds scissors at an extra 0.7 ounces — worth the weight if you prefer an all-in-one tool. The Hiker is the better choice when every gram matters and the saw is your priority.
Pros
- Weighs only 2.7 ounces — easy to stash in a pack pocket.
- Wood saw cuts through branches and small logs effectively.
- Solid Swiss build at a mid-range price that delivers on its purpose.
Cons
- Scratches or cosmetic marks may appear on the scale surface upon arrival.
- No scissors means you’ll need a separate tool for first aid and fine cutting tasks.
The Hiker earns its place as the go-to saw-equipped SAK for weight-conscious hikers who can leave the scissors behind.
Best for Ultralight Backpackers
Leatherman Skeletool
Weighing 5 oz with a pocket clip and bit driver, the Skeletool is the lightest plier-based Leatherman — a stark contrast to fuller multitools like the Huntsman. That weight reduction comes with real limits: no saw, scissors, or file, and reports of pliers or knife tip snapping under heavy stress. This tool fits best for ultralight backpackers and city dwellers who need only pliers and a blade for occasional tasks; it’s not for those who require a saw for wood processing or heavy-duty gripping.
Pros
- Lightweight and minimalist design saves ounces on belt or pack
- Good quality and sleek appearance with a useful tool set
- Perfect for everyday carry and ultralight hiking due to compact size
Cons
- Pliers and knife tip may snap under heavy stress
For lightweight carry where pliers and a knife are sufficient, this is the slimmest Leatherman — but if you need a saw or scissors, the Huntsman is a better fit.
Best for Day Hiking
Victorinox Climber
The Climber (2.8 oz) centers on a pair of sharp scissors and a corkscrew, wrapped in translucent blue scales that give it a distinct look. Its toolset suits daily tasks and wine bottles, but the missing saw means it cannot handle campfire wood preparation – the Huntsman at a similar weight includes both saw and scissors.
Pros
- High-quality build with eye-catching transparent blue handle
- Scissors cut paper, thread, and light materials cleanly
Cons
- Scale plastic may show scratches after rough handling
- No wood saw – cannot process branches or kindling for fires
Best for everyday carry and wine lovers who don’t need a saw; backpackers needing fire prep should look to the Huntsman.
Best for Budget Camp Use
Gerber Suspension-NXT
The Gerber Suspension-NXT packs spring-action pliers, scissors, and a saw into a lightweight frame that costs significantly less than premium plier tools. However, the pliers can bend under heavy stress and the locking mechanism requires deliberate force to release, making this a questionable choice for backcountry use where tool failure is not an option. This multitool suits occasional home or car use, a backup in an emergency kit, or buyers on a tight budget who accept its reliability limitations.
Pros
- Spring-action pliers and scissors handle everyday tasks effectively.
- Includes a wood saw and file for light camping work.
- Lightweight at 6.7 oz for a plier-based tool.
Cons
- The locking mechanism can be difficult to release, slowing down tool changes.
- Pliers can bend or fracture under heavy stress, so best for light tasks.
This is a budget-friendly option for casual home or car use, but not a tool to rely on when miles from a replacement.
Best for Day Hikers
Leatherman Wingman
The Wingman delivers dependable pliers and scissors at a weight that won’t drag down a day pack. The tool set suits campsite repairs and home DIY, but the stainless steel has shown rust after exposure to moisture — so it is better suited for dry conditions and shorter trips where keeping it dry is easy.
Pros
- Comfortable grip and solid build for most everyday tasks.
- Cost-effective entry into name-brand plier-based multitools.
Cons
- Can develop rust if left wet after use in damp environments.
A good pick for day hikers and campsite DIYers who prioritize cost and weight over wet-weather durability.
Best for Urban Carry
Victorinox Tinker
The Victorinox Tinker delivers consistent cutting performance in a lightweight 2.4 oz build at a budget-friendly price — ideal for urban daily errands. The missing wood saw and scissors, however, make it unsuitable for backpacking or camp tasks where those tools are essential.
Pros
- Lightweight at 2.4 oz for easy pocket carry
- Sharp blades that maintain their edge for everyday cutting
Cons
- Lacks wood saw and scissors — not suitable for backpacking or hiking use
Best as an ultra-budget everyday carry for urban tasks; choose a model with saw and scissors for backcountry trips.
Best for Everyday Carry
Victorinox Super Tinker
At just 2.2 ounces, the Super Tinker packs 14 functions including sharp scissors and a Phillips screwdriver — ideal for everyday carry and light camp chores. The lack of a wood saw, however, limits its usefulness for firewood processing on backpacking trips, and there are no pliers for gripping tasks. This is a scissors-focused alternative to saw-equipped models like the Huntsman, best kept in an urban pocket or as a backup for tasks that don’t require a saw.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and pocketable at 2.2 oz
- Sharp scissors and well-chosen daily tools
Cons
- No saw – limits wood processing for campfires
A fine urban multitool for light camp tasks, but skip it if you need a saw for campfire wood.
Best for Campers with Saw
Leatherman Sidekick
The Sidekick’s spring-action pliers and wood saw handle cutting and gripping tasks well for casual campsite use. The missing scissors becomes a real gap for first aid or food prep, and the clip and pliers can show wear over time — durability that suits light to moderate outdoor use rather than backcountry demands.
Pros
- Sharp blade and solid build hold up to regular use
- Tool selection balances saw, pliers, and openers for camping
Cons
- No scissors — a limitation for cutting cord, food, or first-aid materials
A reasonable choice for car camping or as a backup tool where scissors aren’t essential, but not the best fit for backpackers who need every gram to earn its keep.
Best for Ultralight Backup
UST Tool-a-Long
At just 1.2 oz, this carabiner-shaped tool adds negligible weight to a keychain and includes basic screwdrivers, a bottle opener, and a ruler. The stainless steel build holds up for occasional use. However, it lacks any cutting tool or pliers, limiting it to light-duty backup tasks — not a replacement for a proper multitool on backpacking trips.
Pros
- Ultralight design at 1.2 oz fits easily on a keychain without adding noticeable weight.
- Stainless steel construction withstands casual use despite the small size.
Cons
- No knife, pliers, or scissors — only basic screwdrivers and a bottle opener that may not work reliably.
Fits best as an ultralight backup or novelty gift for hikers who already carry a proper multitool.
Best for Preppers and Survival
Victorinox SwissChamp
The SwissChamp packs an astonishing 33 tools into a classic Victorinox build — pliers, scissors, saw, corkscrew, and more. The sapphire ABS scales add a premium look, but the 6.5 oz weight and 3.6 in closed length make it a desk drawer companion rather than a hiking partner. Plastic scales may separate over time with heavy use, and the thickness rules out comfortable pocket carry for backpackers. This is the multitool for preppers who want every function in one place, not for lightweight trail needs.
Pros
- Comprehensive 33-function toolset covers nearly every everyday and survival need.
- Classic Victorinox fit and finish — tools lock into place with minimal play.
Cons
- At 6.5 oz and 0.75 in thick, it feels heavy and bulky in a pocket during hikes.
Keep this in your car or tool kit; for a backpacking multitool, consider a lighter SAK like the top pick Huntsman.
How to Choose
The most important decision is balancing tool versatility against weight, because every ounce counts on the trail.
Weight
A multitool that feels fine in the store becomes a burden after 10 miles. The difference between 3 oz and 8 oz is over a quarter pound on your belt. For backpacking, target under 4 oz for a Swiss Army knife and under 6 oz for a plier tool.
Every additional ounce may seem trivial, but multiply by the miles and the cumulative fatigue becomes real. That’s why the lightest options often sacrifice tools – make sure the trade-off matches your trip needs.
Tool Count and Type
More tools mean more weight and bulk. A saw adds ounces but may be essential for firewood; scissors are often undervalued until you need to cut tape or trim a blister pad. Pliers tempt many hikers but are rarely needed on well-maintained trails.
The hidden trade-off is that extra functions increase the chance of failure – more pivots and moving parts create more potential break points. Focus on the three or four tools you actually use, not the total count.
Build Material and Durability
Stainless steel resists rust, but not all stainless is equal. Cheaper steels can corrode quickly in wet conditions, especially in saltwater or humid environments. High-carbon blades hold an edge longer but require more maintenance.
Pliers are the weak point in many multitools – budget models often break under moderate stress. Look for replaceable wire cutters and robust pivot construction if you rely on pliers for gear repair.
Closed Size and Carry Options
A pocket clip helps access but can snag on branches or break off. Keychain tools are ultra-light but lack leverage for tougher tasks. A closed length under 4 inches fits comfortably in a hip pocket or stuff sack.
The sheath that comes with many multitools adds 2-3 oz and is often left behind. Consider whether you’ll actually carry the tool on your belt or in your pack before committing to a heavy model.
FAQ
Why do Leatherman Wave+ pliers snap so often?
This is a known issue with the plier pivot under repetitive side-loading. For heavy gripping, the Wave+ is not indestructible. Use pliers for their intended purpose – light gripping and cutting – not as a vice or clamp.
Is a Swiss Army knife enough for backpacking without pliers?
Yes, if your tasks are limited to cutting, sawing, and screwdriving. Pliers add weight and are rarely needed on well-maintained trails. For car camping or gear repair, a plier tool may be necessary.
Which multitool has the best scissors for hiking and camping?
The Victorinox Climber and Huntsman both have excellent scissors – sharp enough for first aid, food prep, and trimming tape. They are identical in design and performance.
How much weight should a backpacking multitool add?
Aim for under 4 ounces for a Swiss Army knife or under 6 ounces for a plier tool. Every additional ounce compounds over miles, so weigh the trade-off between tools and carry fatigue.