My favorite multi-tool is the only one you’ll ever need and it comes with a 25-year warranty

I love having a good multi-tool at hand at all times. While they can’t replace a proper tool set, I don’t like carrying a full set of tools when I go out. Many of my readers, like me, often do random and unplanned DIY jobs throughout the day, so having a portable toolkit that can handle the basics is essential.

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Not a week goes by without someone asking my opinion on multi-tools. My advice is always the same: test what you want Leather people or Gerber must provide and ignore the rest.

Why? Two reasons: warranty and repairability.

Take my trusted person Leatherman Free P4. I chose this one for three reasons: it has all the tools I need, the wire cutters are user-replaceable so I don’t need a tool warranty to fix them, and it comes with a 25-year long-term warranty.

And these are real guarantees. I know because I’ve had to use them several times over the years. I use and abuse my tools — after all, any tool can replace a hammer if you’re creative enough! As a result, I broke a few blades and even the pliers. But each time, the problem was resolved promptly and to my complete satisfaction.

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Assuming you don’t lose your multi-tool — don’t be like this writer, who lost two multi-tools over the years — you’ll have a reliable companion for decades.

The next thing to consider is repairability. The wire cutters on every multi-tool I own are completely worn out. I use them not only to cut wire but also to chew on small bolts, gnaw metal, and gnaw screws. They had a very difficult life. Therefore, these parts need to be user replaceable, otherwise I will replace or warranty the tool every time the cutter breaks down.

Luckily, you can buy replacement cutters Leather people And Gerber multitool. The cutter is easy to replace, allowing you to get your tool back to like-new condition in no time.

I replaced the cutter on my Leatherman in about five minutes and for about $12.

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Personally, I don’t recommend wasting money on cheap multi-tools. It’s a false economy and a classic case of ‘buy cheap, buy twice’. I’ve been sent dozens to test and they’ve all been poor quality, disappointing, or even dangerous. That’s why I didn’t recommend them and chose them Leatherman multi-tool instead of.

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Some people told me they would buy a cheap one for their car or home to use in an emergency. However, the last thing you want to rely on in an emergency is a cheap tool!