16 Best Camping Multi Tools

Last Updated December 8, 2023
Top 3 Best Camping Multi Tools
Leatherman Signal Camping Multi Tool
Leatherman Signal
  • Versatility: Includes 19 tools like pliers, wire cutters, a saw, and a 420HC combination knife.
  • Portability: Lightweight (7.5 oz) and compact (4.5-inch frame).
  • Outdoor-Oriented Features: Equipped with a ferrocerium rod, diamond sharpener, and safety whistle.
  • Quality: High-quality Leatherman construction with secure tool locks.
  • Minor Drawbacks: Slightly loose opening; lacks scissors; removable pieces could be lost.
Gerber Downrange Tomahawk Multi Tool
Gerber Downrange Camping Tomahawk Multi Tool
  • Durable Construction: Made from 420HC stainless steel with G-10 composite handles.
  • Functional Design: Features a full tang axe, pry bar, and a MOLLE compatible sheath.
  • Lightweight: Designed to be both sturdy and easy to carry.
Off Grid Tools SA100 Camping Hatchet Multi Tool
Off Grid Tools Camping Hatchet Multi Tool
  • Multi-Functional: Combines 30 features including an axe, hammer, nail puller, hex wrenches, saw blade, glass breaker, and seat belt cutter.
  • Compact Size: Just under a foot long with a full tang carbon steel body.
  • Versatile: Suitable for camping and emergency situations.
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There’s nothing quite like the open sky and twinkling stars over your head at night. Going camping is an American right of passage and one of the best inexpensive recreation options available. If you’re getting ready for this years camping season make sure you don’t forget to bring the right tools along. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the best camping multi tools as well as a buyers guide to make choosing your favorite a breeze.

Best Camping Multi Tools Reviewed

You’ll have different tool needs depending on where you’re camping and how you’re getting there. If you’re in an RV or going car camping you can afford to go with the largest and most capable tools available.

For hikers or other folks hoofing their gear into the backcountry size, weight, and multi role functionality become much more important.

With that in mind we’ve picked out some of the best traditional multi tools, shovel/axe based tools, and ultra light additions to help everyone find the perfect tool for their needs.

Leatherman Signal

Leatherman Signal
The Leatherman Signal camping multi tool product picture

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the Leatherman Signal has become a staple in my outdoor adventures, offering an impressive array of tools that cater to both general and wilderness-specific needs. With its sleek design, the Signal folds into a compact 4.5-inch body, weighing merely 7.5 oz, making it a lightweight yet potent companion on the trails.

Being an avid outdoorsman with a penchant for hiking, camping, and RVing, I find the blend of 19 versatile tools in the Signal incredibly practical. From the essential needle-nose and regular pliers, wire cutters, to the wilderness-oriented ferrocerium rod and diamond sharpener, it’s apparent that thought has been invested in its design to cater to outdoor enthusiasts.

The one-handed operable 420HC combination knife has become a go-to for a variety of tasks at the campsite. Its straight and serrated edges demonstrate exceptional proficiency in cutting through anything from ropes to meal preps. The saw, with its sharp teeth, makes short work of small to medium branches, a necessity for gathering firewood.

The unique inclusions of a safety whistle, ferrocerium rod, and diamond sharpener have elevated my outdoor preparedness. While I initially doubted the effectiveness of the small ferro rod, with a few practice strikes, it proved capable of igniting tinder, a priceless feature in survival scenarios. The diamond sharpener, although small, has held up well in field-dressing the knife and saw blade edges.

The Signal’s hammer point is a clever addition that eliminates the need to lug around a separate hammer when setting up the tent, saving both space and weight in my pack. I also found the carabiner useful for quick access by clipping the Signal to my belt loop.

While I adore my Leatherman Surge for its robustness, the Signal’s lighter frame has made it my preferred choice for everyday carry (EDC). The Signal doesn’t compromise on quality, showcasing excellent fit and finish, synonymous with the Leatherman brand. The tool locks securely, and its aluminum body contributes to its lightweight characteristic, making it less of a burden in my pocket as I navigate through rough terrains.

However, it’s not without its minor quirks. I did notice a slight looseness when opening the tool, although it tightens up nicely in plier mode. And while I appreciate the innovative design of the whistle, ferro rod, and sharpener, there’s always a lingering worry about losing these removable pieces during intense activities.

A feature I miss on the Signal is a pair of scissors, which often comes in handy in both wilderness and urban settings. Adding that could potentially elevate the Signal’s utility even further.

During a recent weekend RVing trip through the Rockies, the Leatherman Signal proved its worth in gold. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a cool shadow over our campsite, I decided it was time to set up the fire. With the Signal in hand, I quickly sawed through some branches and had a decent pile of firewood in no time. As the night grew colder, the need for a warm fire became more pressing. The ferro rod on the Signal, though small, sparked the tinder after a few strikes, and soon we had a comforting fire crackling against the chilly mountain air. As we settled around the fire, I found myself constantly reaching for the Signal to open cans of beans, slice through sausage links, and even carve sticks for marshmallow toasting.

The ease with which I could access and utilize the tools, especially the knife and saw, made the camping experience seamless and enjoyable. And when it was time to call it a night, hammering down the tent stakes using the Signal’s hammer point was a breeze. Each click of the tool folding back into its compact form was a reminder of the thoughtful engineering that went into its design, making the wilderness feel a bit more like home.

In wrapping up, the Leatherman Signal resonates well with my adventurous spirit. Its thoughtful amalgamation of general and outdoor-centric tools, coupled with the reputable Leatherman quality, makes it a significant contender in the realm of camping multi-tools. The price may lean towards the higher end, but the value it brings to the table, especially for outdoor aficionados, is undeniably substantial.

Tools included:

  • Needlenose Pliers
  • Regular Pliers
  • Regular Wire Cutters
  • Hard Wire Cutters
  • Wire Stripper
  • Awl With Thread Loop
  • Hammer
  • 420HC Combination Knife
  • Can Opener
  • Bottle Opener
  • 1/4 in Bit Driver
  • Saw
  • Bit Driver
  • Hex Wrench
  • Carabiner
  • 3/16 Hex Wrench
  • Safety Whistle
  • Ferrocerium Rod
  • Diamond Sharpener

Pros:

  • Versatile Toolkit: With 19 integrated tools, the Signal caters to a wide range of outdoor and general-purpose needs.
  • Lightweight and Compact: Its 4.5-inch frame and 7.5 oz weight make it a portable choice for everyday carry and outdoor excursions.
  • One-Handed Operable Knife: Quick and easy access to the knife enhances practicality in various situations.
  • Outdoor-Specific Features: The inclusion of a ferrocerium rod, diamond sharpener, and safety whistle are invaluable for wilderness survival.
  • Quality Construction: The fit and finish are in line with the high-quality standards associated with Leatherman.

Cons:

  • Loose Opening: The tool can feel a bit loose when unfolding, although it tightens up in plier mode.
  • No Scissors: The absence of scissors is felt, especially for those used to having them in a multi-tool.
  • Potential Loss of Removable Pieces: The removable whistle, ferro rod, and sharpener could potentially be lost during vigorous outdoor activities.
  • Price: The Signal is on the higher end of the price spectrum, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.

Gerber Downrange Camping Tomahawk Multi Tool

Gerber Downrange Camping Tomahawk Multi Tool
The Downrange camping multi tool product picture

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The Gerber Downrange Tomahawk is a camping multi tool designed to be lightweight yet highly durable. It’s made from 420HC stainless steel with G-10 composite handles in an attractive desert tan.

The axe itself has a full tang design that provides maximum strength. The axe head has been hollowed out to reduce overall weight without lowering the strength at the point of impact.

One of the great things about the Downrange’s design is its multi purpose utility. It has a full size pry bar built into the end of the handle, allowing you to both chop and pry at things. It comes with a MOLLE compatible sheath to make carry safe and easy.

If you want a quality camping multi tool axe that’s rugged yet lightweight the Gerber Downrange Tomahawk is an excellent option.

Off Grid Tools SA100 Camping Hatchet Multi Tool

Off Grid Tools Camping Hatchet Multi Tool
The Off Grid Tools camping multi tool product picture

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The Off Grid Tools SA100 survival and camping hatchet is an axe based multi tool that combines lots of useful tools for on and off the grid use. It’s just under a foot long, has a full tang carbon steel body encased in nylon handles, and packs in 30 unique features and tools. These include:

  • Axe
  • Hammer
  • Claw Nail Puller
  • 10 Hex Wrenches
  • Replaceable 6 inch Saw Blade
  • Glass Breaker
  • Seat Belt Cutter

The main tool on the SA100 is the hatchet/hammer combo. The hatchet takes up the front of the body and has a rounded blade profile. This makes it perfect for chopping and splitting small limbs for a campfire or shelter. The hammer is great for pounding in tent stakes or nails.

When you add in the replaceable saw blade you have everything you need to cut and prepare wood for a roaring fire. The remainder of tools on the SA100 are great add ons that fulfill several useful roles alongside the main tools. They aren’t camping specific but do give you a nice bonus for keeping it in your car.

The SA100 is a survival focused tool that’s just as useful on a weekend camp as it would be in a true emergency situation.

IUNIO Camping Axe Multi Tool

IUNIO Camping Axe Multi Tool
The IUNIO camping multi tool product picture

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The IUNIO Camping Axe Multi Tool is a modular camping multi tool designed to fulfill the key tasks of setting up a campsite. It’s just under 17 inches long, weighs 2 lbs, and incorporates 10 different tools, including:

  • Axe
  • Hammer
  • Fish Scaler
  • Hammer
  • Ferro Rod
  • Knife Blade
  • Mini Saw
  • Bottle Opener
  • Emergency Whistle
  • Compass

The Camping Axe has a carbon steel head on a hollow aluminum handle. One side is the axe bit and the other is the hammer. Within the handle are several compartments that can be screwed open or closed.

These contain the bottle opener, whistle, fish scaler/saw blade, and the ferro rod. The Camping Axe gives you everything you need to chop firewood, clear a campsite, prepare tinder, get it going, and even get your catch of the day ready to go on the fire.

It’s priced well for the value it brings you and is sturdy enough to last through lots of camping trips.

Zippo AxeSaw Camping Saw Multi Tool

Zippo AxeSaw Camping Saw Multi Tool
The Zippo AxeSaw camping multi tool product picture

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Zippo is best known for their iconic lighter and other firestarting products but has also dipped their toes into the multi tool world. The Zippo AxeSaw combines an axe, saw, and hammer into a very compact package.

The AxeSaw is just over 20 inches long, a great size for a packable axe. It has a 5 inch carbon steel head on one side and a durable hammer on the other. The axe is perfect for chopping, clearing brush, or splitting small logs for a fire.

What helps set the AxeSaw apart from competitors is the design of its safety sheath. It’s made from durable composite materials with a rubber overlay. Between the bottom of the axe bit and the end of the handle runs a 15 inch long self-tensioned saw.

The combination of an axe and a saw gives you everything you need for camping wood processing. You can saw limbs into a manageable size then split them into useful pieces of firewood.

If starting and feeding your campfire is a primary camping concern of yours the Zippo AxeSaw is a sturdy, well designed tool that won’t let you down.

We have a great article you might enjoy on the best folding saws.

FiveJoy Folding Shovel Camping Multi Tool

FiveJoy Folding Shovel Camping Multi Tool
The FiveJoy camping multi tool product picture

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The FiveJoy Folding Shovel Camping Multi Tool is built to provide you with everything needed to set up a perfect campsite. It gives you 9 different tools packed into the body of a shovel, including:

  • Shovel
  • Saw
  • Axe
  • Hammer
  • Ferro Rod
  • Knife Blade
  • Mini Saw
  • Bottle Opener
  • Ruler

The entire shovel tool is made from stainless steel with a handle of aircraft grade aluminum. This gives it significant strength without greatly increasing its weight. The shovel head encompasses the main saw, ruler, axe, and hammer function all in one.

To access the other tools you unscrew different segments of the handle. The ferro rod, saw, and knife are hidden within. The whole thing comes with a sturdy nylon carry case and a strap to better carry it on your shoulder.

If you’re like us you love single tools that fulfill a lot of roles. The FiveJoy Folding Shovel lets you level your campsite, dig a cat hole, pound in tent stakes, and start a fire all in one. It’s an excellent tool to take with you on your next camping trip.

IUNIO Camping Folding Shovel Multi Tool

IUNIO Camping Folding Shovel Multi Tool
The IUNIO shovel camping multi tool product picture

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The IUNIO Folding Camping Shovel is an adjustable shovel tool with a variety of other useful tools built right into its handle. It packs in 9 different tools, including:

  • Adjustable Shovel
  • Saw
  • Hammer
  • Hoe
  • Fish Scaler
  • Emergency Whistle
  • Ferrocerium Rod
  • Bottle Opener
  • Nail Extractor

The shovel head contains more than half the included tools. It acts as the saw, the shovel, the hammer, the hoe, and the bottle opener. The remaining tools are contained within the lightweight aluminum handle.

To access them you unscrew the shovel at different places along the length of the handle. This gives you quick and easy access to the various tools. The shovel comes with a nylon carry case that lets you unscrew the handle and carry the shovel as compactly as possible.

The IUNIO folding camping shovel is a durable, inexpensive tool that gives you a lot of value in a very small package for a camping trip.

Leatherman Charge TTi

Leatherman Charge TTi
The Leatherman Charge TTi camping multi tool product picture

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The Leatherman Charge TTI is quite possibly the finest multi tool available today. It’s made from high end materials, uses the latest in multi tool design, and was put together with all of Leatherman’s expertise. It’s a full size multi tool at 4 inches long and weighs a full 8.89 oz. It gives you 19 different tools, including:

  • Needlenose Pliers
  • Regular Pliers
  • Regular Wire Cutters
  • Hard Wire Cutters
  • Wire Stripper
  • Electrical Crimpers
  • S30V Knife
  • 420HC Serrated Knife
  • Saw
  • Spring Action Scissors
  • Ruler
  • Cutting Hook
  • Can Opener
  • Bottle Opener
  • Large Bit Driver
  • Small Bit Driver
  • Wood/Metal File
  • Diamond Coated File
  • Medium Screwdriver

The Charge TTi is basically an upgraded version of Leatherman’s wildly popular Wave+. It substitutes durable titanium in the handles and adds in a few other higher end touches. The most obvious is the high carbon S30V steel used in the main knife blade.

This is a very hard steel that holds an edge well yet still has excellent corrosion resistance. Each of the 4 outside access tools are just under 3 inches long, a great size for use in a camp setting. The saw especially is great for cutting through small to medium branches for shelter or fire building.

The needlenose pliers are perfect for pulling out a stuck fish hook by the lake or grabbing a hot camping pot out of the fire. The cutting hook is similarly useful for cutting fishing line, cordage, or opening up pouches of trail food.

One of the most often overlooked tools in a camping multi tool is the can opener. If you’re car camping there’s nothing like some fresh hot dog chili or corned beef hash cooked in the can over an open fire.

If you’re looking for a top of the line multi tool that also gives you a lot of value while camping the Leatherman Charge TTi is the tool for you. It’s expensive, but definitely worth the price.

For more information on the Leatherman Charge TTi, check out our full review here.

Nite Ize Doohickey Keychain Camping Multi Tool

Nite Ize Doohickey Keychain Camping Multi Tool
The Nite Ize Doohickey camping multi tool product picture

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The Nite Ize Doohickey is a one piece multi tool that’s perfect for EDC and hiking/camping trips. It’s a tiny little tool, 2.6 inches long and weighing just .4 oz, but still gives you a lot of value.

The Doohickey has 5 different tools built into its small body. The primary tool is a combination pry bar and flathead screwdriver. It’s great for opening up boxes, turning screws in lanterns or stoves, and generally performing small tasks.

Right behind the pry bar is a really nifty little bottle opener. You’ll quickly have your chosen refreshment open and ready to be enjoyed. There’s also a small ruler and three different sizes of hex wrenches. The Doohickey is designed to clip to your keys, onto a belt loop or bag, or be tossed into your pocket.

The Nite Ize Doohickey won’t work as a primary camping multi tool but it provides a lot of really useful features as an accompanying tool.

SOG Flint Camping Multi Tool

SOG Flint Camping Multi Tool
The SOG Flint camping multi tool product picture

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The SOG Flint is a camping multi tool built around an emergency signaling whistle. It’s made from anodized aluminum and 3 three different tools into one.

The whistle is piercingly loud, perfect for signaling for help should you get separated from your group or lost in the woods. If night begins to approach the ferro rod has you everything you need to make an emergency fire. It’s also great to get your campground fire going if you forgot your lighter.

The last tool on the Flint is a carbide glass breaker. It doubles as a self defense tool if you should ever need it.

Overall the Flint is a useful add on camping multi tool that lets you signal for help or start a fire while in the great outdoors.

CRKT Eat’N Tool Camping Multi Tool Spork

CRKT Eat’N Tool Camping Multi Tool Spork
The CRKT Eat’N camping multi tool product picture

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The CRKT Eat’N Tool answers the burning question of whether a utensil really can be a multi tool. It’s an easy to carry little spork made from durable stainless steel and available in a variety of finishes and colors.

The spork itself is perfect for eating campfire eggs, spooning up fall chili, or enjoying some nice hot oats on a cold winter morning. As befits any good camping multi tool it gives you a way to open up cold beer and soda. The included bottle opener is as good as any we’ve seen and the 3 hex wrenches are a good range of sizes for basic tasks.

Combined with the included carabiner for easy bag or belt carry the CRKT Eat’N tool is the perfect addition to any camping or outdoor EDC.

SURVCO Tactical Credit Card Axe Camping Multi Tool

SURVCO Credit Card Axe Camping Multi Tool
The SURVCO camping multi tool product picture

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The SURVCO Credit Card Axe is a multi tool that gives you the foundation for dozens of other tools. It’s basically a solid piece of stainless steel with the ability to pull apart into multiple useful tools.

The main use of the Credit Card Axe is as the head of an axe/tomahawk. The top of it is a sharpened axe blade that can be attached to a handle using cordage. There is also a saw, cutting hook, and several hex wrenches built into this section.

The center of the Credit Card Axe is a detachable arrow head with a band of useful rubber. It lets you quickly craft an arrow for a survival situation or to use for fun on a camping trip. The remainder of the uses are variants of these main tools.

The SURVCO Credit Card Axe is a well made tool that gives you a lot of useful features should your camping trip turn into a survival situation.

Last Man Camping Paracord Multi Tool

Last Man Camping Paracord Multi Tool
The Last Man camping multi tool product picture

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Anyone familiar with EDC will know about paracord bracelets. They’re survival tool fashion statements that combine useful cordage with a very nice woven bracelet. Last Man Survival Gear has taken this a step further with their Ultimate Paracord Survival Kit. It combines a paracord bracelet with several other useful items for survival.

There’s a compass, a miniature fishing kit, a ferro rod and striker, tinder, and of course 12 feet of paracord. It’s not as bulky on your wrist as you would expect and generally looks quite nice. The survival gear is contained within the weave of the bracelet and the ferro rod is used as the closing latch.

It gives you everything needed to start a fire, catch a fish, and tie a few things together. The Last Man Ultimate Paracord Survival Kit isn’t the only camping multi tool you’ll need but it does a good job filling in the gaps of other tools.

Leatherman Wave Plus

Leatherman Wave Plus
The Leatherman Wave Plus camping multi tool product picture

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The Wave+ is Leatherman’s current flagship multi tool. It’s also one of the best selling multi tool lines in history, with millions made. It’s 4 inches long, weighs 8.5 oz, and gives you 18 full size tools, including:

  • Needlenose Pliers
  • Regular Pliers
  • Regular Wire Cutters
  • Hard Wire Cutters
  • Wire Stripper
  • Electrical Crimpers
  • 420HC Straight Edge Knife
  • 420HC Serrated Knife
  • Saw
  • Spring Action Scissors
  • Ruler
  • Can Opener
  • Bottle Opener
  • Large Bit Driver
  • Small Bit Driver
  • Wood/Metal File
  • Diamond Coated File
  • Medium Screwdriver

As far as general purpose multi tools go it’s hard to beat the Wave+. The main tools are outside accessible and large enough to sort out nearly any issue. The bit drivers let you quickly adjust almost anything with a screw and the main pliers are perfect for grasping delicate or hot objects.

The saw blade in particular is perfect for powering through small to medium branches for firewood. You can then make a feather stick with the straight edge knife to really get the blaze going.

The Leatherman Wave+ is very nearly the best multi tool on the market today. It loses the overall top spot to its cousin the Charge TTi but is still an excellent camping multi tool at a very reasonable price.

For more information on the Leatherman Wave Plus, check out our full review here.

Victorinox Swiss Army Huntsman Pocket Knife

Victorinox Swiss Army Huntsman Pocket Knife
The Victorinox Huntsman camping multi tool product picture

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Victorinox is famously known as the creator of the iconic swiss army knife. The Huntsman is one of their most popular products and will be familiar to anyone who was ever a Boy Scout or Girl Scout. It gives you 15 different tools in a 3.6 inch long body, including:

  • Large and Small Straight Edge Blades
  • Awl with Thread Loop
  • Corkscrew
  • Large and Small Flathead Screwdrivers
  • Can Opener
  • Bottle Opener
  • Multi Purpose Hook
  • Wood Saw
  • Tweezers
  • Toothpick
  • Scissors
  • Keyring

The Victorinox Huntsman is a full sized swiss army knife with all the fixings. It has two knife blades, a well sized wood saw, and a selection of smaller tools. The tools don’t lock out but they do easily stay in place when used properly.

One of the most important parts of any good camping trip is cooking over a fire. The Huntsman gives you the tools you need to open up a can of beans and chili out in the field plus pop open your favorite beer or classic soda pop.

The tools are all made from quality steel and each fulfill their role beautifully. We especially love the included tweezers. They’re just right for plucking off the annoying ticks that inevitably climb their way into itchy places.

Victorinox has been making quality knives and multi tools for well over 100 years. Their products are well made, beautiful to look at, and provide a lot of value. The Huntsman pocket knife is no exception.

The Firebiner Fire-Starting Multi Tool

The Firebiner Fire-Starting Multi Tool
The Firebiner camping multi tool product picture

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The Firebiner is a carabiner multi tool that incorporates a useful sparking firestarter right in. It has a few other interesting features that give it outsized usefulness for such a small tool.

The body of the carabiner is made from lightweight aluminum and gives you more than 5 different tools. The carabiner itself is useful for connecting various items together or holding your keys. It has a set of slots at the base that you can easily attach a keyring to.

The main feature of the Firebiner is the sparking fire wheel. It shoots out a spray of sparks great for lighting a grill, igniting a stove, or sparking a small tinder bundle. There’s also a sharp cutting hook good for slicing through things like fishing line and string.

The final tools are a flat head screwdriver and bottle opener. On a camping tool like the Firebiner the bottle opener is honestly one of the tools you’ll use most. It does a great job popping the top on ice cold beer or sodas.

For a simple carabiner multi tool the Firebiner packs a ton of value into a very small package. It’s a great tool to have on your next camping trip.

Buyers Guide for the Best Camping Multi Tools

The most important things to keep in mind with any multi tool are price, design style, and the types of tools included. As long as you focus on these areas you’ll be able to pick out the tool best suited to your needs

Price

There’s a pretty wide range of prices you can pay for a quality camping multi tool. You can get a workable basic model for around $30 or spend well over $100 on a top of the line model.

If you want something that will work as both a camping multi tool and an EDC piece you should expect to spend more.

Style

Camping multi tools are an interesting category. There isn’t really a consensus on what exactly one should look like.

You can find classic butterfly fold multi tools, one’s built into shovels, one’s designed around carabiners, and everything in between. The best camping multi tools therefore aren’t going to be one particular type.

If you prefer an axe or shovel model that will work great for you. Other’s prefer the compact size and portability of traditional multi tools.

Size and Number of Tools

Where you’re going and how you plan to get there affect the size of your multi tool and how many tools it will have. Car and RV campers can carry large tools with every attachment imaginable. Hikers and campers will be more likely to look for the lightest and most multi role tool they can find.

If you’re somewhere in the middle a traditional butterfly fold multi tool or pocket knife is probably going to be your best bet.

Handy Camping Tools

For dedicated hiking and camping enthusiasts picking the tools they carry is almost as much fun as the actual camping. There are some basic camping tools that any serious outdoorsman should bring with them for the best experience possible.

Knife – We’ll be 100% honest with you, if you’re going hiking, camping, or exploring without a knife you’re doing yourself a disservice. A high quality pocket knife is the absolute minimum tool load out you should bring with you.

The vast majority of camping multi tools will include a knife in them. Picking out the best one for your needs comes down to how you’re using it, how much upkeep you want, and how sharp you want it.

When it comes to camping and survival knives you should always try and carry more than one.

Axe – An axe is one of those multirole tools that you don’t know you need until you need it. Then you need it a lot.

A good axe can chop wood, clear a campsite, hammer in tent stakes, chop apart venison steaks, and do tons of other tasks. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, each with a job they do best.

It’s hard to find a true multi tool axe but if you can get a good one we definitely recommend it.

Awl – When we mention awls most people give us a funny look and ask what is an awl? At its most basic an awl punctures materials to allow you to thread string or another material through it.

Most people have used one without even realizing it. If you’ve ever added a hole to your belt you probably did it with an awl. They’re great for making field repairs under trying conditions.

If you’re working with leather, putting together a lean to, or designing a classic three pole campfire tripod having an awl available will really come in handy.

Saw – A saw is a great tool to have for hunters, hikers, and general outdoorsman. Ones around 2-4 inches long are perfect for sawing through small branches for a fire.

You can also use a saw to help you field dress a deer or other game animal or to help in basic carpentry tasks.

Shovel – A shovel is one of the most often overlooked tools to take into the backcountry. This is a mistake. A good shovel provides tons of useful features beyond just moving earth.

Planning to have a campfire? You should always have a shovel on hand to safely extinguish it in an emergency.

Practicing leave no trace principles? Try digging a proper cathole without a shovel.

There are lots of great options out there to choose from. You can get purpose built shovels, folding army surplus models, and even true multi tool shovels.

Ferro Rod – The ability to start a fire is the most basic requirement for wilderness preparedness. A ferrocerium rod, commonly called a ferro rod, is the most compact and reliable backup fire starting tool available.

They’re inexpensive, lightweight, compact, and reliably produce a spray of sparks. Even better, tons of great multi tools come with ferro rods built right in.

Hammer – Just about any multi tool can be used as a hammer in a pinch. Having a camping multi tool that comes with a purpose built hammer is a much better option though.

A quality outdoor hammer makes just about any task easier. You can hammer in tent stakes, baton wood effectively, and more easily build shelters.

You may enjoy our best multi tool hammers article.

Can and Bottle Openers – Let’s be honest, most of us are going out camping to rest and relax. It’s hard to enjoy your weekend in the great outdoors without the ability to open up your favorite iced beverages or canned goods.

Camping multi tools with can and bottle openers are worth their weight in gold if you realize you forgot the full size twist can opener.

At a Glance: Our Top 16 Best Camping Multi Tools

Top Camping Multi Tools Video

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Best Camping Multi Tool

When it comes to camping, hiking, and survival activities, having the right tools at your disposal can make all the difference between an enjoyable adventure and a challenging experience. Among the essentials that every outdoor enthusiast should have is a reliable camping multi tool – a versatile gadget designed to be the Swiss Army knife of the wilderness.

In this comprehensive FAQ section, we aim to address the most common inquiries surrounding camping multi tools. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker looking to upgrade your gear or a novice camper preparing for your first outdoor excursion, we’ve got you covered. From understanding the benefits of a camping multi tool to selecting the perfect one for your needs, we’ll provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions.

Our team of outdoor experts has compiled a list of frequently asked questions that often arise when choosing the best camping multi tool. We’ll delve into the key features to consider, maintenance tips to keep your tool in prime condition, and even address whether you can bring it on an airplane or not. We’ll explore the versatility of these compact tools, examining their potential to replace full-size toolsets for various tasks.

At OutdoorsmanToolkit.com, we are passionate about outdoor exploration and safety. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge you need to make the most of your camping and hiking adventures. So, read on to discover all you need to know about camping multi tools and how they can become your most trusted companion in the great outdoors. Let’s gear up for unforgettable experiences and embrace the spirit of adventure with the best camping multi tool by your side!

What is a camping multi tool?

A camping multi tool is a versatile and compact tool that combines several functions into a single device. It typically includes various tools such as pliers, knives, screwdrivers, can openers, and more, making it a handy and essential accessory for camping, hiking, and survival activities.

Why do I need a camping multi tool?

A camping multi tool is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts as it offers convenience and versatility. Instead of carrying a separate set of tools, a camping multi tool provides a wide range of functionalities in one compact package. It can be used for various tasks like cutting ropes, opening cans, repairing gear, and much more, making it invaluable in emergency situations.

What features should I look for in a camping multi tool?

When choosing the best camping multi tool, consider factors such as the number of tools included, build quality, size, weight, ease of use, and additional features like a built-in flashlight or fire starter. A good camping multi tool should be durable, lightweight, and have essential tools suitable for your specific camping and survival needs.

Are all camping multi tools the same?

No, camping multi tools can vary significantly in terms of design, tool selection, and quality. Some multi tools may be more geared towards camping and survival, while others may focus on general everyday tasks. It’s essential to choose a multi tool that aligns with your intended usage and meets your requirements.

Can I bring a camping multi tool on an airplane?

No, you cannot carry a camping multi tool in your carry-on luggage while traveling on an airplane. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) prohibits sharp objects like knives and cutting tools in the cabin. To avoid any issues, place your camping multi tool in your checked baggage.

How do I maintain and clean my camping multi tool?

Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your camping multi tool functioning optimally. After each use, clean the tool with warm soapy water and a soft brush to remove dirt and debris. Lubricate moving parts with a drop of oil to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. Store the multi tool in a dry place to avoid moisture-related issues.

Is a camping multi tool a suitable gift for outdoor enthusiasts?

Absolutely! A camping multi tool makes an excellent gift for anyone who loves camping, hiking, or survival activities. It’s a practical and thoughtful present that can be used in various situations, making it an essential addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s gear collection.

Can a camping multi tool replace a full-size toolset?

While a camping multi tool is incredibly versatile and useful, it may not entirely replace a full-size toolset for more specialized tasks. It is best suited for light to medium-duty tasks and emergency situations during outdoor adventures. For heavy-duty or specialized tasks, a dedicated set of tools may still be necessary.

What is the average price range for a high-quality camping multi tool?

Prices for camping multi tools can vary based on brand, features, and overall build quality. Generally, you can find good-quality camping multi tools ranging from $20 to $100. While some high-end models may be more expensive, they often offer additional features and superior durability.

Are camping multi tools waterproof?

Not all camping multi tools are waterproof. While some models may offer some level of water resistance, it’s essential to check the product specifications or manufacturer’s guidelines to determine the water-resistance capabilities of your chosen multi tool. It’s always a good idea to keep your multi tool dry to prolong its lifespan.

Best Camping Multi Tools Recap

Final Thoughts

When planning your next camping trip make sure you don’t leave a good multi tool out. The best camping multi tools provide you with tons of value whether you’re at a full service campground or 20 miles into the backcountry.

Look for well built models that fit your needs. Don’t worry about brand names as much as you look at pricing, materials used, and the type of problems it’s designed to solve.

2 thoughts on “16 Best Camping Multi Tools”

  1. I’ve been using the Leatherman Wave Plus for over a year now. It’s incredibly versatile with 18 tools, perfect for camping and general use. The saw and knives are sharp and durable. The only downside is the weight, but it’s a small price to pay for such a robust tool. Highly recommend for serious campers and outdoor enthusiasts.

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