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The best types of all-in-one tools for everyday carry

Tools with multiple uses and features can help make your life easier and more efficient. All-in-one tools are known for being compact, which is perfect for everyday carry. Most of these tools can be carried in a backpack, tool belt, or even your pocket. Some can be clipped onto your keychain, so it’s always with you.
With so many options out on the market, the selection can be overwhelming. You may miss out on the best products because you had no idea they existed. This is why, with a little research, you can find the perfect multiuse tool that you’ll be using on a daily basis.

Features to look for in an all-in-one tool

Choosing a multiuse tool can seem complicated, but it can be easy if you know what to look for. The concept of an all-in-one tool is that you need multiple tools in any given time or space. Combining them together in a single product can save some steps, time, space, and weight. An all-in-one tool is basically anything that has multiple tools in one piece of equipment. There are many products within that broad definition. Handy people like to have a combined set of tools for ease and convenience. Whether you are a professional in construction or someone who just enjoys the handiness of a multiuse tool, it will be something you find yourself using in everyday life.

pocket knife
Nor Gal/Shutterstock

To determine what multitool is best for you, you need to consider the following factors:

How you will carry it. A multiuse tool is only as good as your ability and willingness to carry it. Owning one with over 100 tools is great until you forget to bring it or just don’t want to because of its size. The first step in picking the perfect multiuse tool is to figure out how it’s going to best fit into your life. Some all-in-one tools have the size and slenderness to fit into backpacks or pockets. Others are light enough to add to your keychain. Look for tools that are lightweight and compact for easy carry.

What you need to use it for. Do you need something to help you fix your bike? Fix your eyeglasses? Open packages? Fix electronics? If you are not sure, you can start with making a list of what your most common needs are when you are out and about. This list will help you decide what important emergencies you may have and what tool will be the solution to them. Look for tools that have different sizes of screwdrivers, knives, etc.

Avoid cheap, easily breakable pieces. Spending a little extra money on an all-in-one tool will save you the headache of consistently replacing it. It will also ensure your tool won’t suddenly break when you need it most. Sturdy, metal pieces are something to look for in all-in-one tools. It ensures reliability and durability.

Types of all-in-one tools

There are many types of all-in-one tools, and picking the right one is important so you can have easy and convenient access to the things you need.

Pocketknife. A pocketknife typically features one blade that cleanly folds into its handle. It is a great tool for opening boxes, cutting fruit, whittling, carving, and more. It is lightweight and comes in multiple sizes, perfect for customization.

Swiss Army Knife. A Swiss Army Knife is the epitome of all-in-one tools. They are one of the most well-known and handy tools that can be used in fishing, hunting, hiking, and more. These knives have a knife blade, toothpick, tweezers, nail file, a regular screwdriver, bottle opener, can opener, awl, and corkscrew. They are lightweight and can be easily stored on a keychain.

swiss army knife
Myron Jay Dorf/Getty Images

Types of tools within an all-in-one tool. Some higher-end multiuse tools are made of strong metal and feature over 17 tools. These types of tools are great for people who would store them in backpacks or tool belts. Tool sets typically include pliers, a crimper, a wire cutter, a double-toothed saw, a three-sided file, multiple drivers, spring-loaded scissors, two assisted-open blades, and a bottle opener. 

All-in-one tools can make your everyday life so much more convenient. There may be no single multitool that’s perfect for everyone, but there should be one that’s almost perfect for anyone’s particular situation. There are so many options ranging in price, design, and size. There is no doubt that you will find the one that suits your lifestyle and fulfills your needs. 

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