Editors Rating

First on our extensive list is this awesome keychain multi tool that gives you easy access to a whopping 12 tools. Designed and constructed by arguably one of the best EDC brands, Gerber, this has a sturdy stainless-steel construction that makes it feel like a quality product. Crucially though, without feeling too weighty. It’s lightweight and compact design means it’ll fit nicely into most pockets.

What about the actual tools and accessing them? It has a very simple, but elegantly executed butterfly opening. This gives you full and easy access to the 12 incredibly handy tools stored within. For the DIY workman, there’s not just one but, two different pliers, needle nose and standard, two screwdrivers (both flat and cross heads), wire cutters and a fine-edged blade. Alongside these though are the obligatory scissors and bottle opener most expect from EDC keychain tools. The Dime provides something a little unique in a tool that makes it easy to score and cut plastic packaging. No more blunting those kitchen knives opening Amazon packages.

With a closed length of just 2.75-inches, it’s fair to say we’re impressed with the number of cool things Gerber have fit into the Dime multi tool. Though others may have more than 12 tools, for the quality, brand and price, we think this is a winner.

Editors Rating

Sure, it doesn’t look like much if you just give it a glance. Look a little closer at the amazing MOCA keychain multi tool from Keyport and you’ll find a whole world of possibilities. Each nook, tip and neatly machine-cut line or edge is a tool just waiting to be put to good use. Made from aesthetically-pleasing and corrosion-resistant polished 420 stainless-steel, this is built to take price of place on your keychain or, if you’ve got one, Keyport Pivot.

Importantly, it’s TSA-friendly, so if you’re planning on a trip and want to be sure you’re always prepared, this is the perfect companion. Aside from the bottle opener, screwdriver and visible 2-inch ruler, there’s blade that doubles as a box cutter and cord cutter. For the more technical out there, there’s three different sized wrenches (1/4-inch, 5/16-inch and 3/8-inch) all in the same inconspicuous hole that sits alongside a hex bit driver. You can even use the MOCA for any fine scoring work you need to complete.

We’d be lying if we said that we hadn’t fallen a little in love with this tool. It’s not the fanciest, but it’s reliable, functional and exceptionally practical. It also makes for a great talking point, as people will undoubtedly be unconvinced of its proficiency or usefulness. Just don’t let demos of its functionality turn into your buddies getting all those odd jobs sorted around their house for free.

Editors Rating

Leatherman are a brand known for their ingenuity when it comes to designing practical and lightweight EDC tools. The Micra is one of the most popular of its kind and it’s not too hard to see why. Weighing just 1.8-ounces with a total of 10 tools, including some fine personal grooming and care gizmos, it’s a pocket-sized wonder.

Unlike some of the others on the market, all the sharp edges and tools are kept hidden away when closed. This means you’re unlikely to accidentally snag your clothes or skin when fishing it out of your pocket. Access is still relatively quick and easy though and with its durable stainless-steel build and 25-year manufacturer’s guarantee, your everyday tool needs are looked after.

Leatherman are confident in their ability and proclaim the scissors to be one of the best sets of spring-action cutters on the market. Alongside these sharp and portable scissors in this miniature toolbox, is a knife and three different sizes of screwdrivers. Your beer will not stay closed, because, as you’d imagine there’s a bottle opener. For the guys out there, that like to look after themselves though, there’s also tweezers, a nail file and nail cleaner. It may not be to everyone’s taste, but we love the blend of personal grooming and the most crucial of everyday tools.

Editors Rating

Looking at the Swiss+Tech 7-in-1 tool you could be forgiven for thinking it was just like all the others out there. You’d be wrong, but we’d forgive you for it. One major thing that’s worth highlighting that makes this stand out from the crowd is the fact it’s equipped with a quick-release, fully-patented locking system that means it’s able to attach easily to just about any keyring. So, you don’t need an additional belt or ring holster.

Tools-wise, it’s equipped with both a slotted and Phillips screwdriver, a bottle opener and knife. These are all standard for keychain multi tools. The two stars, in our view, of the Swiss+Tech show are the LED flashlight, which is perfect for all auto work and when you need a fine and bright light on a tight and enclosed fixing or space, and the awl. Think nice and sharp tool for punching holes in more robust materials like leather and wood and you’ll know what an awl is.

It’s fair to say if you’re looking for an all-singing-all-dancing multi tool, then this isn’t for you. However, if you just want to switch up your keychain a little, this is a great way to do it. The one thing we’re surprised about is how heavy it is, but the fact that it feels like a very solid and robust item, that it feels substantial in your hand, is a major plus for us. We hate holding even the most miniature of tools and it feels like it will fall apart any minute.

Editors Rating

Back with the kings of the tools all men want, Gerber, for their subtle-yet-outstanding Shard. The Shard has a very rugged and masculine-feel to it, something that we’ve come to expect from the manufacturer. The clean edges and Titanium-Nitrate coated stainless-steel tool gives it a real sense of class. It may look a little unwieldly and awkward to use, but Gerber have put a lot of thought into designing it ergonomically so that it feels good whether you’re prying open a can of pickles or finishing off that piece of furniture for your decking.

Weighing at just 0.32-ounces it’s hard to think of another less bulky and lightweight tool that offers so much versatility. Wherever you are, whatever needs handling, this is a great tool to have at your disposal. Yes, we do mean everywhere, because it’s fully airline-safe. Let’s face it, as modern men, with a sense of pride, there’s always something that needs to be screwed in or tightened up. Even when there’s none of those jobs to do, there’s always a bottle or three of the cold stuff that needs opening. For all those scenarios, the Gerber is your new best friend.

In our search through the best keychain multi tools out there, we’ve found that there’s always one random tool that’s not on others. In addition to the usual suspects like screwdrivers and bottle openers. With the Shard, it’s the nifty wire stripper and pry bar. If that wasn’t enough to tempt you, Gerber have also applied a limited lifetime warranty to this sexy little thing.

Editors Rating

The next Leatherman keychain multi tool in our guide is this Style PS model. The first thing that’s noticeable in comparison to the other Leatherman we’ve covered so far, is that there’s a lot more substance to this tool. With a weight of under 1.8-ounces though, we don’t really see that as being especially bad or heavyweight.

Stainless-steel is used throughout its construction, with a nice bit of black plastic in the carabiner to offset all that metal. Modern multi tools should be ready to use and portable enough to take with you everywhere. Juist like the Style PS. That includes on flights when you’re travelling, as it’s fully TSA-compliant. Thanks to the carabiner, you can attach this to your rucksack or coat, if you’d rather keep it out of your pocket.

Using it couldn’t be simpler. In fact, Leatherman know as we all do, that sometimes you only have one hand available. So, you can open this bad boy with just one hand. With two types of spring-action pliers (regular and needle nose), spring-action scissors and wire cutter, two kinds of screwdrivers and some handy nail implements, you’re ready for just about anything. And yes, there’s even a bottle opener.

Editors Rating

This funky looking multi tool may resemble a quirky-designed bottle opener, but trust us, the Haversport 10-in-1 is so much more. This heavy duty, low-cost and exceptionally portable EDC multi tool is constructed from top-grade stainless-steel with a sandblasted surface to give it a more textured feel.

If you’re a keen cyclist, then this is probably one of the best options in our guide for you. Among the various other tools, we want to highlight specifically the fact it features two different sizes of bicycle spoke wrenches. If we had to pick out one tool, we’d not seen featured in another keychain multitools, it’d be that.

Now back to that key-shaped design. It’s more than just a thematic stylistic thing, as it’s designed that way, so it feels comfortable inside your pocket and doesn’t stick out any more than the keys on your chain. With regards to tools, this is an intriguing little thing. We’ve already mentioned the bicycle spoke wrench.

Yes, it’s got a bottle opener, screwdriver and scoring tool. In addition to the regulars though, there’s also three sizes of wrench and a wrecking bar. All in all, Haversport have produced a fine addition to the small multitools market.

Editors Rating

Introducing the newest member of the Decepticons…Swiss+Tech ST50022. Okay, it’s not the catchiest name. Would Wrench-itWireStrippertron be better? We’ll go back to the drawing board. Anyway, the reason the good ol’ Decepticons are mentioned is because of the neat way this ‘transforms’ and that metallic finish makes it look like the old Megatron Generation 1 toys of the 80’s. What starts off as a compact little rectangle, transforms into a nice pair of precision pliers.

Even some of the best EDC keychain tools suffer from not being able to fit on to all keychains. That’s where Swiss+Tech have really bettered their competition, with the self-locking quick-release jaws that mean it attaches to just about any chain. As well as the pliers there’s also a wire cutter and stripper, sheet shear and two types of screwdriver. We’re not sure what you need from one day to the next, but we’d say this has you covered for most tasks, save for those that are more specialized.

As is the case with many of these mini tools, this has been constructed from high quality stainless-steel. This gives it a nice and reliably solid look and feel. One to consider for your inner handyman.

Editors Rating

SOG sounds badass. As does their covert operations they were involved in during the Vietnam War. That’s until you realize it’s Studies and Observations abbreviated. No offence, but huh? Really. Anyway, back to matters at hand. Admittedly, this is perhaps the most simplistic tool we’ve covered so far. It’s fierce some-looking. But, given it’s just got a bottle opener – yes, it’s simplistic.

We’re not ragging on it though. We love this and all you COD fans out there or Apocalypse Now! Full Metal Jacket and Platoon fans will adore it. If you’re looking for a small gift to get someone or to treat yourself to, you should consider this.

One thing we will say about it, that makes it different from many on our list, is the design. More than just quirky and cool, the very design is what enables it to attach to backpack straps so easily.

Editors Rating

Another great key-shaped design. This time from the popular Boar Tools. With 13-in-1 this multi tool keychain is one of the most feature-filled in our guide. The key design helps it to fit nicely into your pocket, while the stainless-steel construction gives it a sturdy and very tough quality. All that without being too thick or much longer than the average key in length.

What kind of tools does it have? The 13 includes the inevitable and vital bottle opener, bicycle spoke wrenches, screwdrivers, nail puller, box opener, three wrenches and a 1” ruler. So, just about everything you could need on your keychain. AS well as, if you’re a cyclist, tools to carry out light maintenance and repairs on your bike.

As it has a very streamlined design, it doesn’t feel nearly as bulky as a tool that has 13 different functions should. Anyone that’s familiar with Boar Tools knows they’re committed to designing and manufacturing only the finest tools with long-term, even lifetime use in mind. To that end, they’ve supplied their limited lifetime warranty for the tool.

Editors Rating

Try to say that name without laughing a little. But this doohickey is anything but a joke. Put the silly name to one side for the moment. Key designs are obviously a popular choice among manufacturers and EDC fans. This is probably one of the slickest we’ve looked at. It just looks like a key, until you give it a closer look. Stainless-steel is used to give it a strong and durable quality, while remaining relatively lightweight.

There’s something deftly-clever about a gadget that can do multiple jobs from virtually the same part. And that’s the case with this Nite Ize tool. All the tools are found in the ‘key teeth’. So, whether you’re looking to fasten something with screws, score or cut something or open a bottle of your favorite amber nectar, there’s no complicated usage instructions or opening mechanism.

Like most of the EDC multi tools in this guide, this one is TSA-friendly, so can be taken just about anywhere.

Editors Rating

Just when we thought we’d seen the best of the best, Bastex blast much of their competition out of the water with this sensational pocket tool. Are you one of these guys that always has things he needs to get done? This amazing 14-in-1 multi tool is worth considering if you are. Not only does it have a strong metallic construction, but it’s also lightweight, especially when you think about just how many tools are held within it.

About those tools, how does a miniature saw, pocket knife, wire cutters, two types of pliers, screwdrivers and bottle opener sound to you? Pretty awesome, right? Well, hold on a little before you inevitably click trough and purchase this bad boy. If you’re a keen angler, whether for sport or for the belly, there’s a fish hook remover, to help you benefit from your catch. Versatility is the name of the game when Bastex is at the helm, because the same implement can also be used to re-string your guitar too.

After a busy, but undoubtedly fun time using this tool for just about anything, you can kick back and bust open two or three cold ones. But wait, 14 tools in 1 sounds quite dangerous, doesn’t it? Have no fear, hombre, as each individual tool has its own locking mechanism that keeps it securely in place when it’s not in use. So, there’s no need to worry about toes or fingers flying.

Editors Rating

By now, if you didn’t already realize it, seeing the Swiss+Tech branding emblazoned on a keychain multi tool, is enough to suggest it’s a quality product. That’s what we would say about this 9-in-1 gizmo. Even if it does look like something a serial killer might use when it’s fully open and all the tools are out. Don’t do that at the airport. Seriously, dude. Don’t.

Anyway, back to the tool itself. It’s exceptionally lightweight, comfortable to keep in your pocket and very easy to use. What’s more, thanks to the inclusion of Swiss+Tech’s patented quick-release mechanism this Micro-Plus EX will lock easily and conveniently onto just about any size or style of keyring.

With stainless-steel used throughout, it looks and feels like a professional piece of kit. Think about the tools that are included. There’s pliers, a wire cutter that will also crimp and strip wires if necessary and that bottle opener for when you need a bit of a refreshing break from all that hard work tinkering. Additionally, there’s two flat-head and two Phillips head screwdrivers, whose heads all meet ANSI standards.

Editors Rating

Do you want to feel as free as a hawk? The Freehawk outdoor tactical emergency survival tool is just what you need for everyday task but should also be considered for your go bag or camping accessories haul. It’s constructed from high quality, hardened stainless-steel and aluminum with a silver-brushed finish that makes it look very elegant. The stylish layout and Freehawk motif all make it a rather elegant piece.

Elegance aside, this is built for work. The fine-edge knife is ideal for cutting material like rope and other materials, particularly if you are climbing, hiking or just camping out in the great outdoors. Even if you’re back home and need quick and easy access to screwdrivers, the Freehawk EDC multi tool provides you with not just one size of slotted screwdriver, but two and a Phillips head too.

You’ll also never been in the dark again, thanks to the LED flashlight. It’s obviously not going to be as powerful as the torches featured in our guide to the best tactical flashlights, but it’s better than nothing. So, when you’re looking for affordable and reliable pieces of kit to stick in your backpack (you can find some great products in our Best 29 Tactical Backpacks Reviewed post), give this classy tool from Freehawk more than a passing glance.

Editors Rating

This looks like it was built for some serious abuse. The Alotm keychain multi tool has a very curious design. It’s not shaped like a key, for one thing and it’s long and has a cap that you remove to insert the different heads. Although it’s not got any sharp blade or any cutting implement, it does have a wide variety of screwdriver and hex bit carrier heads and an LED flashlight.

The black and silver-tint of the metal make for a very smart-looking accessory. The most appealing part of it’s the carabiner though, as this means it not only can attach to virtually any keychain, but also a belt or backpack, if necessary.

Given that it’s just under 10 bucks, we think this is a rather great bargain. Forget the fact you may never have heard the name before and just think about the quality and versatility of the tool.

Editors Rating

The final of our keychain multitools is this attractive key-style design from Closs Industries. Closs Industries are an American-based company who have a reputation for designing and building high quality products. This keychain tool is no different. The metal construction has been finished with titanium for extra protection. Despite this, it’s still a relatively compact and lightweight multitool.

It’s only got five tools, which admittedly isn’t as many as some of the other EDC tools on this list. However, what it lacks for in quantity, it more than makes up for in quality. The tool has been cleared for airline travel and is TSA-compliant. There’s a flat screwdriver along with different sizes of hex wrenches.

While the obligatory bottle opener is ever present. Our favorite features of this tool are the file on the edge of the tool near where the keychain slot is and the box opener. Don’t be alarmed though. As we said, it’s TSA-complaint, so the box opener isn’t especially sharp, but should be enough to do the job. It may require you to work those guns tho!

If you’re looking for a slick item that looks just like a key, feels just like a key and tastes just like…wait, just the first two. Then, this Closs Industries tool is ideal.

Editors Rating

First in our guide to the carabiner multi tool is this simplistic, but incredibly practical model from Northwall. Made from titanium alloy, this tool offers a great deal of robustness with more than enough resistance against corrosion, meaning it’s going to last a long time indeed. It’s also suitable for taking on in your carry-on luggage on flights as it’s TSA-compliant.

With regards to the tools, there’s 12. While many of these will be of no use to some people, most will find many of them handy. Even if you’ve got no use for the seven different hex wrench sizes, you’ll probably have flat head and Phillips head screws that you need to install or tighten from time to time. We’re almost 100% sure you’ll find a use for that bottle opener too.

Intriguing, as this is a carabiner multi tool, it still features a keychain loop, providing you with various options for where to hang or keep it. Regardless of where you do, you’ll always be glad you had the smart and manly multi tool.

Editors Rating

Now we’re really hitting our stride with the next EDC carabiner. Considering how inexpensive this is, we’re rather surprised at what it features. With a durable construction of aluminum alloy and stainless-steel and seven amazing tactical accessories, we did fall a bit head over heels for it.

You may well do the same thing to be honest, especially when we point out that there’s a stainless-steel blade. This is essentially the upgraded version of a previous model from the manufacturer. Not only is the bottle opener sharper, but so too is the blade. With that power comes great responsibility and durability. The Elephant outdoor tactical carabiner has it all.

As a safety feature, we were pleased to note it had a locking liner for the blade that ensures it stays tucked in when not in use and that it stays open properly when in use. We also appreciate the inclusion of an easy access LED flashlight. That’s something you need if you’re faced with working with small screws and possibly in low-light environments.

As this is a tactical EDC multi tool, it’s not surprising that there’s a glass breaker. The carabiner part has a locking latch that means your multi tool will be going nowhere once it’s hooked to your bag or belt.

Editors Rating

As we dive deeper into the EDC carabiner section of the marketplace, you’ll find the attachments and tools featured in products are more leaning towards survivalist needs. Take this so-called Firebiner for instance. Initially it looks just like any other carabiner multitool. However, look closely and you’ll see that alongside the bottle opener and screwdrivers that have become default features, there’s also a small but sharp utility belt, for cutting all sorts of things.

There’s also a special Ever Spark Fire Wheel, as patented by the company. This works in a similar way to the modern EDC fire starters you get. In addition to that, the whole design is basically the carabiner itself. So rather than having features that fold out or detach, it’s all integrated, for convenience and quick access to the tools.

Only the highest quality materials are used, and it has been built with foresight and durability in mind. The price tag is rather attractive too.

Editors Rating

How about a carabiner multi tool that has a bit more sophistication and elegance? Look no further than this great from Columbia River Knife & Tool. CRKT don’t tend to put their name on anything that’s less than amazing and the Pryma is a multi-tool keychain that stands out even from the other carabiners, because it’s the only one featured in our guide that’s been designed by renowned knife designer Jesper Voxnaes.

His guiding force in the design is evident with its beautiful minimalism and clean lines that echo the Scandinavian look and feel he was inspired by in his childhood. The name is very apt, when it comes to the tools it’s got, as it’s got a pry bar. While it’s not big enough to pry open anything too weighty or big, it’s still useful to have. As is the hex wrench, glass breaker, bottle opener and carabiner attachment concept.

Editors Rating

The penultimate carabiner multitool on our list is very simplistic, but nevertheless well-executed model from Loowoko. What we do love about it is its gorgeous look and feel. It’s constructed from a mixture of aluminum alloy and stainless-steel, in fact the same material used in aerospace, so you can’t argue with its toughness.

Additionally, though, it’s the high-elastic spring carabiner we really appreciate and the fact that there’s plenty of hang holes to transform it into a keychain. The one thing that we really love about it though, is the rather long and exceedingly sharp knife.

You’d never think anything of it, as it just looks like an overgrown keychain. With such a lightweight and compact style, we sure you’ll be as transfixed as we are, particularly with the images of the knife retracted.

Editors Rating

For all fisherman reading this guide, this is the EDC carabiner multitool you want to invest your money in. Look at it and then look at the features. It’s got scissors for cutting your line, a line threader and even a jig buster. Just about everything you need, apart from bait and an actual rod.

It’s even got a handy bottle opener, so you can enjoy a cold one while waiting for lunch to arrive on the end of your line. Worth the investment.