You don’t have to spend a pretty penny to get yourself a quality multi-tool for EDC, especially if you’re just looking to cover your bases. In the past year, there have been quite a few affordable everyday carry multi-tools released recently that deliver the performance you need without breaking the bank. The wide variety of tools available also means that you can pick the one that’s just right for your needs. And to help you along, we’ve rounded up our pick of some of the best recent EDC muilti-tools that you can grab for under 50 dollars right now.
SOG PowerPint
The SOG PowerPint is a pocketable, butterfly-style multi-tool that has the chops to perform like a much bigger tool. The secret to its effectiveness lies in SOG’s unique Assisted Technology, which amplifies the strength of your grip force, making it very easy to use its pliers and cutters. And at just 3.2” long when closed and weighing 4.20 ounces, it fits an impressive 18 EDC-friendly essential tools in its compact frame. An included pocket clip is the perfect addition to a mid-size tool like this, making it especially portable. To make it even better for quick tasks in your day-to-day, its tools can be accessed without having to open the tool up entirely, too.
Gerber Suspension-NXT
As its name might imply, Gerber has updated its classic Suspension multi-tool with better ergonomics and more functions for EDC. Save for the pliers and cutters, all of the NXT’s tools can be accessed without opening the tool up. And for both ease of use and for safety, all of the outboard tools lock into place. When you do open the tool up, you’ll appreciate the spring-loaded pliers, which allow for a faster pace of work with less fatigue when you’re getting things done. When you’re finished, you can fold the tool up and use the integral pocket clip to store it in your pockets, leaving it ready to go in a flash when the next task comes along.
Leatherman Black & Silver Wingman
For many, Leatherman is the be-all end-all name when it comes to making excellent and reliable everyday carry multi-tools. Their Wingman is one of the best at this price point, offering easy one-handed opening of its outboard tools, including a large pair of spring-loaded scissors for more delicate cutting tasks that require a bit more precision. And this year Leatherman has made it available in a limited edition black DLC colorway that both looks great while adding a bit more resistance to the elements when compared to the regular bare stainless steel. This 14-function multi-tool is made in the USA, built to last, and backed by Leatherman’s 25-year warranty.
CRKT Knife Maintenance Tool
If you already have a trusty knife in your everyday carry, you might not need the assorted blades that come with most multi-tools out there. The design of the CRKT Knife Maintenance Tool revolves around this use-case, giving you both what you need to get through your day and also maintain your knife along the way. The standard tools are readily apparent, with a flathead screwdriver and a bottle opener for unwinding when you aren’t working. But it also includes a T6 and T8 hex bit that let you open up other tools and specialized electronics as well. And at the top of the tool, you’ll find an integral V-shaped tungsten sharpener and a ceramic honer to keep your blade’s edge in tip-top shape.
Gear Infusion EverRatchet
If you find yourself in need of the screwdrivers in a multi-tool more often than not, consider carrying the EverRatchet instead. It’s a one piece multi-tool that’s designed to work with your favorite standard hex bits with a unique design that lets you ratchet the tool for a much easier time. The tool itself carries an included 1/4” driver and hex bit, and it comes with an assorted set of tools including a scraper, file, wire stripper, and bottle opener as well. At 2.4” long, it’s compact and pocketable, and you can use the large hex opening at the back to attach it to a lanyard or keychain for easy carry. If you want things even lighter, it’s available in a titanium edition, which lightens the load by 8 grams in total.
What new affordable multi-tools have you picked up this year? Let us know your favorites in a comment below.
