I am not gentle on multitools, and I don’t pretend they are something they’re not. A multitool is a compromise by design. It trades specialization for convenience. The question is not whether it can replace real tools. It can’t. The question is whether it earns its space in your pocket, bag, or truck.
Gerber has been on a slow upward climb over the last few years and the Scout is one of the clearest examples of how close they are to making truly competitive knives again. The design is excellent. The feel in hand is fantastic. The lock and mechanics rival knives that cost twice the price. But all of that momentum hits a wall when you look at the blade steel. At around sixty dollars the Scout should have been a home run. Instead it lands squarely in the almost category good enough to use but not good enough to recommend without a major asterisk.
I’m not going to get into my personal feelings about multitools in general—if you’ve been reading my reviews on this site for a while, you know my feelings are decidedly mixed—but simply offer what advice I can. If you’re going to carry a multitool, it should be a good one, and these three models from three of the biggest names in the game are all solid choices.
When it comes to multitools, you might be surprised to discover that you don’t need to empty your wallet to fill your pocket with quality. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, a DIY pro, or someone who likes to be prepared for any situation, a reliable multitool is an essential part of your kit.
Among the essential tools to bring along is a hatchet. A backpacking hatchet differs from a camping hatchet in that it needs to be smaller and lighter to fit into your backpack easily.
I bought the knife in June of this year (2022) and never got around to writing a review until now, so my opinions have changed. First, don’t waste your money on a $20 knife…ever. Save a few more bucks and get to the $30-$50 range. However, if you were to spend your last $22 on a knife, should it be the Zilch? Maybe, it’s not a total loser considering the entire cheap knife landscape.
The Gerber Armbar Drive is a tough, functional and well-made little multitool. It shines brightest when it leans into the simplicity of its design and its pared-down selection of features.
Pocket cleavers are utilitarian as well as stylish. Their sudden spike in popularity has been one of the most surprising EDC trends in recent years.