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Every ounce matters when you’re carrying a pack for miles, but a multitool that lacks essential tools—like scissors for cutting tape or a reliable blade—leaves you improvising. Many hikers discover that the tool they chose for its low weight can’t handle trail repairs.
Conversely, a heavy multitool with every gadget becomes dead weight after the first day. The best backpacking multitool balances weight, durability, and the tools you actually need—not a full workshop.
That balance is hard to read from marketing specs, but it’s the difference between a tool you’ll carry and one you’ll actually use.
Best for Light Backpacking
Leatherman Wingman
Rating: 4.8 ★ | Price: $$ | Weight: 6.88 oz | Tools: 14 | Blade Lock: Yes | Scissors: Yes
Spring-action pliers reduce hand fatigue on repetitive tasks, and the scissors cut cleanly through cordage and fabric—both lock open for safety. At 6.88 oz, the Wingman packs 14 tools into a folded length under 4 inches, making it pocketable for day hikes or overnight trips. Build quality holds up well in everyday carry; the blade keeps an edge through regular use.
This tool suits backpackers who need scissors for first-aid or gear repair but want to stay under 7 oz. It fits comfortably in a hip belt pocket or jeans pocket. The tradeoff: the pocket clip can snap under sideways strain, so pocket carry is safer than belt clipping. And the stainless steel can develop surface rust if left wet—easy to avoid with a quick dry after use.
Pros
- Spring-action pliers reduce hand fatigue during repeated use.
- Scissors cut cleanly and are large enough for trail repairs.
- Locking blade stays safely deployed during heavy cutting.
Cons
- Pocket clip may break under sideways pressure – better to keep the tool in a pocket rather than clipped to a belt.
- In humid or wet conditions, the steel can develop surface rust if not dried promptly.
For backpackers who value scissors and a balanced tool set without paying a premium or carrying extra ounces, the Wingman is the right call.
Best for Ultralight Hiking
Leatherman Skeletool
Rating: 4.8 ★ | Price: $$$ | Weight: 5.6 oz | Tools: 7 | Blade Lock: Yes | Scissors: No
At 5.6 oz with a pocket clip, the Skeletool is the lightest way to carry pliers, a locking blade, and basic drivers on the trail. That weight savings means you give up scissors, a saw, and a file — and the pliers can snap under moderate torque, so this isn’t a tool for heavy camp repairs. It’s purpose-built for ultralight backpackers and trail runners who already pack a dedicated knife and scissors and need a minimalist backup for unexpected fixes.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and slim — disappears in a pocket or pack.
- Build quality and fit/finish match Leatherman’s standard for precision assembly.
- No wasted tools — each one serves a genuine trail need.
Cons
- Pliers may bend or snap under moderate twisting force — best for light tasks only.
- No scissors, saw, or file — you’ll need to pack those separately for camp chores.
If you’re counting grams on a thru-hike, this is the multitool to carry — just know you’ll need to supplement the tool kit.
Best for Budget Camping
Gerber Suspension
Rating: 4.7 ★ | Price: $$ | Weight: 9.6 oz | Tools: 12 | Blade Lock: Yes | Scissors: Yes
Spring-loaded pliers and a full set of locking tools make the Suspension a capable basic multitool for casual use. At 9.6 ounces, it’s noticeably heavier than lighter alternatives like the top pick, making it less suitable for backpacking where every ounce counts. The screwdriver tips may snap under moderate torque, so this is best kept as a car or toolbox companion rather than a trail essential. For budget-conscious beginners, the low price and functional toolset offer good value, but serious hikers should look to the lighter Wingman instead.
Pros
- Spring-loaded pliers open smoothly for quick one-handed use.
- All tools lock into place for safer operation.
- Affordable price compared to premium multitools.
Cons
- At 9.6 ounces, it’s heavy enough to notice in a pocket on long hikes.
- Screwdriver tips can snap under lateral pressure — light-duty use only.
A budget-friendly multitool for the car or toolbox, but not the right choice for backpackers prioritizing weight and longevity.
Best for Car Camping
Mossy Oak 21-in-1
Rating: 4.7 ★ | Price: $ | Weight: 16 oz | Tools: 21 | Blade Lock: Yes | Scissors: No
The Mossy Oak 21-in-1 offers an impressive tool set for the price, including a saw and file. However, its 16 oz weight makes it unsuitable for backpacking, and occasional plier issues under heavy torque limit its reliability for demanding tasks. Best left in the car or workshop for light repairs.
Pros
- Wide tool selection includes saw and file.
- Solid construction feels sturdy for the price.
Cons
- Pliers may not handle sustained heavy-duty tasks.
A practical choice for car or workshop use, but not for backpacking where weight and tool durability are critical.
Best for Survival Kit
WETOLS 27-in-1
Rating: 4.6 ★ | Price: $ | Weight: 9.38 oz | Tools: 27 | Blade Lock: Yes | Scissors: No
With 27 tools packed in, including a fire starter and whistle, this multitool offers exceptional value for budget buyers. The 9.38 ounce weight and bulky folded size, however, rule it out for any hike where ounces matter. Occasional fit-or-finish inconsistencies mean checking the tool out of the box is wise — trade-offs that are easy to accept for a survival kit or car emergency bag, but a non-starter for trail weight weenies.
Pros
- Exceptional value — 27 tools for a low price
- Includes dedicated emergency tools (whistle, fire starter)
Cons
- Heavy and bulky for its tool set — 9.38 oz is too much for backpacking
Keep this in the car or emergency kit where weight doesn’t matter, but leave it home for any hike where you count grams.
Best for Budget All-Around
PERWIN 17-in-1
Rating: 4.7 ★ | Price: $ | Weight: 10.56 oz | Tools: 17 | Blade Lock: Yes | Scissors: Yes
The PERWIN 17-in-1 packs a saw and scissors at a low price, but at over 10 ounces it’s too heavy for backpacking. Best suited for budget users who need a multi-tool for around-the-house or crafting, not for the trail.
Pros
- Great value for money
- Includes scissors and saw
Cons
- Blade lock may not engage securely on some units
Best for around-the-house and crafting use, not for backpacking.
Best for Emergency Backup
Fangfo 14-in-1
Rating: 4.5 ★ | Price: $ | Weight: 8.95 oz | Tools: 14 | Blade Lock: Claimed | Scissors: No
The Fangfo 14-in-1 is extremely affordable and includes a basic tool set plus a nylon sheath, but its 8.95 oz weight and inconsistent build quality — screws may loosen, tools can jam, blade dulls quickly — disqualify it for trail use. It suits emergency car storage instead.
Pros
- Extremely affordable price for a 14-function multitool.
- Includes a nylon sheath for basic storage.
Cons
- Screws may loosen over time, causing handles to separate in some cases.
Best reserved for the car’s glove compartment where low expectations are acceptable.
Best for Keychain Backup
Gerber Dime
Rating: 4.4 ★ | Price: $ | Weight: 2.2 oz | Tools: 12 | Blade Lock: Yes | Scissors: Yes
The Dime weighs just 2.2 oz and clips onto a keychain, making it the lightest option for quick access to scissors, a blade, and a bottle opener. However, its small size limits leverage, and the toolset is not built for sustained use, so this is best as a backup in a pack rather than a primary tool for backpacking repairs.
Pros
- Ultra-light keychain form factor for daily urban carry.
- Includes scissors and locking blade for light tasks.
Cons
- Pliers can snap under moderate use and tools wear quickly, limiting heavy-duty tasks.
Best as a backup tool in a pack or on a keychain; choose a sturdier multitool for primary trail use.
How to Choose
The single most important buying insight: weight is the biggest factor in whether you’ll actually carry and use a multitool on the trail.
Weight
A multitool that weighs 8 oz feels fine in a store but becomes a burden after ten miles. Each extra ounce multiplies over a day’s hike—a 10 oz tool adds over half a pound to your pack before food and water.
Ultralight backpackers aim for tools under 6 oz, but that often means fewer tools. For most hikers, the sweet spot is 6–8 oz, offering enough durability for camp chores without dragging you down.
Tool Selection
Pliers and a sharp blade are non-negotiable for gear repairs and food prep. Scissors are surprisingly useful for cutting tape, cord, and bandages—many tools omit them, forcing you to use the blade where it’s less precise.
A saw is valuable for bushcraft but rarely needed on maintained trails. Prioritize tools that match your actual activities: a weekend car camper can afford more gadgets; a thru-hiker should focus on essentials.
Locking Mechanism
A locking blade prevents the knife from folding onto your fingers during use—a critical safety feature. Cheaper tools often use slip joints or weak locks that can fail under side pressure.
Check that each tool locks firmly into place. Liner locks and frame locks are common; they should require a deliberate press to release. A tool with a non-locking blade is not suitable for backpacking where you need reliable one-handed cuts.
Build Material and Finish
Stainless steel resists rust but isn’t corrosion-proof—tools that get wet during a rainstorm should be dried. Premium 400-series steel holds an edge longer but is heavier; budget 3Cr13MoV steel dulls faster but keeps weight down.
A tool’s finish (bead-blasted, coated, or polished) affects how it sheds water and dirt. Textured handles improve grip when wet, while smooth finishes slide into pockets easier. Consider your environment: coastal or humid conditions demand better corrosion resistance.
FAQ
What is the lightest multitool with pliers for backpacking?
The Leatherman Skeletool is the lightest full-size pliers-based multitool at 5.6 oz. It includes a knife, pliers, and a bit driver, but no scissors or saw. If you need fewer tools and can accept a smaller form factor, the Gerber Dime weighs only 2.2 oz but its pliers are fragile—it’s best as a backup.
Why do budget multitool pliers break so easily?
Budget multitools use lower-grade steel and simpler casting, which creates weak points at the plier pivot and jaw tips. Under moderate torque—like twisting a stubborn screw—those joints can snap. A mid-range tool like the Leatherman Wingman uses heat-treated stainless steel that handles repeated use without failing.
Are spring-loaded pliers worth the extra weight for backpacking?
Yes, if you use pliers frequently. Spring-loaded pliers open automatically after each squeeze, saving time and reducing hand fatigue during repetitive tasks like cutting wire or pulling splinters. The added weight is minimal (0.3–0.5 oz) and the convenience is significant for trail repairs.
Can a $10 multitool survive a weekend camping trip?
Rarely. Cheap multitools often have soft steel that dulls quickly, loose screws, and unreliable locks. They might open a beer or cut a loose thread, but they’ll likely fail when you need to cut a tent stake strap or tighten a pack buckle. Keep one as a car or day-pack emergency backup, but rely on a quality tool for any real work.