Budget Multi-tool

C

Charles Stevenson

Joined
Sep 3, 2020
Messages
31
Looking for a multitool under $50, but a decent knife and pliers are a must. I was thinking of purchasing a Gerber Armbar and replacing the scissors with some small pliers, any suggestions on how to do this? Or would I be better off just buying a tool with these things built in?
 
Having experienced cheap multi tools before, I would say add a little money and get a leatherman.

Cheap multitool (like gerber ones) will not only create headache but alot of physical pain lol. The wire cutters gerber uses are pretty bad.

I've seen used leathermen (leathermen? Leathermans?) Go for around your budget so definitely look around before jumping in.

DLT had the Victorinox Spirit for sale for 65$, I got it and it's pretty nice! You can also get the new leatherman bond for your budget.

Have fun shopping!
 
At a price point of $50, I would look hard at the Leatherman Bond. Goes for right around $49.99 and is an updated version of the original Leatherman Tool. Everything you need, nothing you don't. I'm looking at getting one, and I carry a $130 leatherman P4. The Original tool is just such a handy package.
 
A Leatherman Rev is $40. The Leatherman Bond is $50.
I'll second what Dergyll said, cheap multitools are a PITA. There is always something wrong, be it screwdriver heads that are too wide for slots, pliers that don't line up, laughable wire cutters, etc.
 
What do you consider a decent knife ?
Do you want outside or one hand knife opening ?
Is it out of the question to ignore the blade and just carry an actual pocket knife with it , or do you just have to carry your multitool as a knife ?

I think the new bond is an excellent tool regardless of the $50 price, but that's because it has only what I consider the bare essentials which is all I'm after.
If you want more In a multitool you may wish to look elsewhere.

My suggestion would be to find whatever leatherman model you like most and do what you gotta do to get it.
Save up, get a gently used example on Ebay...ect.
If you find a model you like for $50 or less new that's great, but don't settle if you don't.

 
Charles Stevenson said:
Looking for a multitool under $50, but a decent knife and pliers are a must. I was thinking of purchasing a Gerber Armbar and replacing the scissors with some small pliers, any suggestions on how to do this? Or would I be better off just buying a tool with these things built in?
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You probably already own a SAK. Just add a pair of decent pliers and you're all set.
 
There's also the option of keeping an eye on the exchange here on blade forums for one in your price range that would be above your budget if it were new.
 
Another vote to avoid Gerber and get a LM. Grab a Rev or Bond or look over the forums if you aren't in a hurry.

Fathers day is coming up, hopefully some sales on LM should be popping up.
 
Ourorboros said:
A Leatherman Rev is $40. The Leatherman Bond is $50.
I'll second what Dergyll said, cheap multitools are a PITA. There is always something wrong, be it screwdriver heads that are too wide for slots, pliers that don't line up, laughable wire cutters, etc.
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And those prices are for new tools. I've seen used Leatherman Sidekicks (incidentally, my first multitool) on the big auction site in the mid-$30 to $40 range. Ditto the Wingman and Rev. It pays to look around.
 
Also look into the Ozark Trail 18-in-1 Multi-Force available through Walmart. It is very similar to a LM Wave but with a few improvements. It sells new for less than $50. T-A
 
Buying a Leatherman on the secondary market would be a good option.

I bought one of these Blackfire multi-tools from Home Depot ($40) and it has been a good serviceable multi-tool. 1623363663473.png
 
the-accumulator said:
Also look into the Ozark Trail 18-in-1 Multi-Force available through Walmart. It is very similar to a LM Wave but with a few improvements. It sells new for less than $50. T-A
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And the new Leatherman Bond can be had for nearly the same price. Why are you suggesting an inferior tool?
 
Used LM Skeletool can be found in your budget. 154CM blade, replaceable screwdriver tips.
2 of my 3 have pliers that close perfect enough to be used as tweezers.
Carries EASY(5 oz) - I carry one everyday at work in dress slacks on the pocket clip.
I have a 600 series Gerber. Hated it. It sleeps in a drawer. I can't even in good conscience sell the thing.
 
Lee D said:
And the new Leatherman Bond can be had for nearly the same price. Why are you suggesting an inferior tool?
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I think you and many others need to reconsider the quality and value to be found in an Ozark Trail Multiforce 18 in 1 multitool. Don't write it off just because it bears the name of a company known for very inexpensive low quality import crap. This tool needs to be experienced to be appreciated.
Check out TX Tool Crib's two videos comparing the Multiforce to the LM Wave. He scored the $100 Wave at 71 and the $40 Multiforce at 66. The LM Bond sounds like a great tool at a reasonable price, but the Multiforce is far more capable. And while I own a Multiforce and am very impressed by its function, fit and finish, I admit that my EDC is a LM Surge (or two!). T-A
 
the-accumulator said:
I think you and many others need to reconsider the quality and value to be found in an Ozark Trail Multiforce 18 in 1 multitool. Don't write it off just because it bears the name of a company known for very inexpensive low quality import crap. This tool needs to be experienced to be appreciated.
Check out TX Tool Crib's two videos comparing the Multiforce to the LM Wave. He scored the $100 Wave at 71 and the $40 Multiforce at 66. The LM Bond sounds like a great tool at a reasonable price, but the Multiforce is far more capable. And while I own a Multiforce and am very impressed by its function, fit and finish, I admit that my EDC is a LM Surge (or two!). T-A
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Don’t listen to him. LoL.

Get a name brand multitool with a great warranty. You can find Leathermans all day long in pawn shops for your budget.
 
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