Multitool.org Forum

Tool Talk => Keychain and One Piece Tools => Topic started by: engblom on March 13, 2016, 08:03:11 PM

Title: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: engblom on March 13, 2016, 08:03:11 PM
I am daily carrying either Leatherman Squirt ES4 or Gerber Dime. Both got their good and bad sides. I picked these because I very often need pliers, scissors, files, knives and screw drivers. I also want the tool to be as small as possible as it will be in my pocket.

Leatherman Squirt ES4
+ Very good selection of tools and and good design
- Very soft material. Screw drivers (especially the Phillips) degrade very quickly.
- Badly built. From the beginning both my Squirts hardly cut finger nails with the scissors.

Gerber Dime
+ Slightly better material than Squirt
- Bad design. The stupid bottle opener makes the already too short file almost impossible to use. Why not putting the files on the box opener sides and also remove the not necessary bottle opener?

What are your favorite small sized multitools?
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: captain spaulding on March 13, 2016, 08:08:25 PM
For me it is most definitely the Leatherman Style PS. I have been carrying one every single day for probably the last 3 years and I would never leave home without it. The great thing is I never have to as it has no blade so it is not restricted anywhere. I have traveled across the country with only the Style PS at my side. Its been a great companion.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: ThePeacent on March 13, 2016, 08:39:22 PM
Mine has to be the Micra.

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/20160207_124818_zpscaq3ifel.jpg)

Unproportionally strong scissors, capable drivers.

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/20160207_124749_zpsu7pjuyiq.jpg)

Much slimmer than any other Dime, Squirt, etc. Lighter as well.

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/20160207_124730_zpsufxplgih.jpg)

The blade is a true slicer, and the finish doesn't get scratched up.

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/20160207_124713_zpsrcsc2dpf.jpg)

The best LM of all, IMO. But I like my Squirt and Dime as well.

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/20160207_101513_zpsd6p9wxxi.jpg)

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/20160207_104631_zpssyo094pr.jpg)
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: WWW on March 13, 2016, 09:25:35 PM
I would go for the Micras as well. Don't really need scissors but, the long tools and the tool density are hard to beat.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: cody6268 on March 13, 2016, 10:04:14 PM
I prefer full-size multitools, knives, and SAKs but you've got to hand it to the mini tools when it comes to packing light or as a backup.

Leatherman 6 and Craftsman 4-in-1 "Lucky Clover" for one piece tools.   The Leatherman 6 gets used mostly for its wrenches and is almost always on me, and the "Lucky Clover" always accompanies a pocketknife when I'm not carrying an SAK or multitool with it.    And at $1 and US made, the price can't be beat on the Lucky Clover.

As far as small multitools I own, that would be the Victorinox MiniChamp.  Has everything I need as a backup tool.  Favorite tools on it are the bottle opener/No. 0/1 Phillips driver and the Wharncliffe blade. 

I am looking at the Bear and Son Mini Bear Jaws as my next small multitool, since I prefer pliers to scissors, since the SwissCard that almost always accompanies me when I go out (in my wallet) has them.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Kampfer on March 14, 2016, 08:01:18 AM
My all time favorite MT is Swiss Tech Utili-Key, which I EDC over 15 years.
It offers a couple basic functions like blade, drivers and cap lifter, weights next to nothing, hides in plain sight, takes up no space.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Corwyn on March 14, 2016, 08:13:17 AM
I currently edc a Victorinox Rogue, but the absolute best would be a Vic Drifter (I might mod one soon).

I don't like the SOG Crosscut... strong scissors but poor fit & finish and far too heavy.

For the Gerber Dime I am ambivalent. It has a great design and looks awesome... it also made of recycled bedpans... I have never seen poorer excuse of QC as with Dimes... I had two NIB ones.. one was a nailbreaker with offcenter pliers, the second came in with scratches a a huge welding error on the handle...
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: SteveC on March 14, 2016, 04:29:18 PM
Micra  :tu:
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: jekostas on March 15, 2016, 03:19:49 AM
Esquire
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: ToolJoe on March 16, 2016, 12:04:52 AM
How do you find carrying the Leatherman 6? I'm considering one as a cheaper alternative to the piranha..
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Aloha on March 16, 2016, 01:10:31 AM
Leatherman P4.  Mine is getting pretty beat up.  I love this thing but truth be told I must pair it with a Classic. 
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: NetsNJ on March 19, 2016, 02:54:12 PM
Definitely the leatherman micra.  The best drivers on a keychain multitool, as others have pointed out great tool density.  Excellent scissors.  Simple but robust design.  Wonderful fit and finish. 
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: rishardh on March 20, 2016, 03:59:56 AM

Another vote for the Micra. Nicely complements my bigger MT with robust scissors and smaller drivers. I wish they made them in BO to match my other BO tools. I am weird that way.

Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: cody6268 on March 20, 2016, 02:10:17 PM
How do you find carrying the Leatherman 6? I'm considering one as a cheaper alternative to the piranha..

Screwdriver is one of the worst I've used on a multitool, but it's value is in the SAE wrench set and the tool's overall small size.   It fits in the small front slot of a Wave sheath, a keychain, or in a pocket all equally well.  It works great--in a pinch when you have nothing else that will work better. Last summer, I had a nut that needed replacing on a lawnmower (fell out due to vibration, I think) and the hole was recessed, meaning the 6 inch Crescent wrench I had one me at the time wouldn't fit in there. So, I pulled the 6 out of the Wave sheath I had my first generation Super Tool in, and was able to fix it.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: captain spaulding on March 20, 2016, 02:15:13 PM
I may have to change my answer. While I do carry my Style PS every single day I have been carrying a Vic Classic every single day as well, but for much longer.

I would be lost without both.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Chako on March 20, 2016, 11:03:05 PM
I would have to say the Swiss+Tech 6in1 Utilikey is probably my favorite small sized multitool simply because it is a constant companion hiding among all my keys.

It doesn't do anything all that great, and the tool does have plenty of limitations. However, I find that what it does do, it does fairly well. Compact size is excellent. A big caveat is how dangerous this tool can be in use. It can be quite easy to cut yourself once the utilikey is folded out. I haven't cut myself yet, but I am extra careful about that aspect. the little Phillips is great at eyeglass repairs.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: theonew on March 21, 2016, 05:10:01 AM
For my everyday life I don't often need pliers, scissors or a file but they do come in handy often enough that I prefer to have them with me all the time. Thus my pick and EDC for the last several years is a PS4. That and my four layer SAK mod (Explorer plus with a saw swapped for the scissors) work extremely well together for me.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: alexTOOL on March 21, 2016, 02:19:11 PM
I may have to change my answer. While I do carry my Style PS every single day I have been carrying a Vic Classic every single day as well, but for much longer.

I would be lost without both.

Then you keychain carry both or you alternate them?

As a back up of another bigger tool I suppose

Thanks my Captain! :salute:
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: captain spaulding on March 21, 2016, 02:39:07 PM
I may have to change my answer. While I do carry my Style PS every single day I have been carrying a Vic Classic every single day as well, but for much longer.

I would be lost without both.

Then you keychain carry both or you alternate them?

As a back up of another bigger tool I suppose

Thanks my Captain! :salute:


Keychain carry the Classic (alox minichamp now) and the Style PS just gets dropped into my right front pocket. I carry both everyday. The Style PS has a Uncle Bills sliver gripper attached.

Depending on the day I will sometimes carry a larger tool like my Blast or Fuse (both with locking pocket clips). I have been getting away from sheath carry lately.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: mrog on March 23, 2016, 06:06:13 AM
Victorinox Manager > Any other 58mm Victorinox > Leatherman Micra > Leatherman Squirt PS4

Gerber Dime is garb all the way around. Style PS scissors usually break themselves for no reason.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Kampfer on March 23, 2016, 10:44:00 PM
My all time favorite MT is Swiss Tech Utili-Key, which I EDC over 15 years.
It offers a couple basic functions like blade, drivers and cap lifter, weights next to nothing, hides in plain sight, takes up no space.
I would have to say the Swiss+Tech 6in1 Utilikey is probably my favorite small sized multitool simply because it is a constant companion hiding among all my keys.

It doesn't do anything all that great, and the tool does have plenty of limitations. However, I find that what it does do, it does fairly well. Compact size is excellent.
Great minds think alike.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Semajmarx007 on March 29, 2016, 08:14:18 AM
I've been carrying a Vic Manager for close to 9 years now and I've recently attached a Brewzer to it.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: ReamerPunch on April 03, 2016, 10:48:57 AM
I've been carrying the LM Micra on my keys for more than a year, and it's just great.
Not a scratch on it. Amazing.
the blade is awesome, had to resharpen it a couple of times. Scissors are excellent.

I'm going to get a Vic Signature and try it out, though. I wanted a pen too.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: twiliter on April 03, 2016, 10:32:01 PM
Jetsetter (with signature scale added) is my favorite, with a recently acquired Style PS running a close second. These are ones I don't have to give up at security. The Jetsetter gets scrutinized so often that I carry the Style when I don't want to be hassled by security (some of them really don't get it  ::)). The iconic and widely recognized 58mm SAK is always a target for them, but the tool selection is better for me than the Style.  :salute:

I don't carry small tools regularly, they are only placeholders for bigger and more capable EDC tools.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: powernoodle on April 04, 2016, 12:31:30 AM
(http://i1302.photobucket.com/albums/ag137/toddh6/EDC2_zps65086b72.jpg)
When I go small, my favorite combo is the PS4 + Manager.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: rdub934 on April 22, 2016, 03:34:57 AM
As far as small multitools - I like the  LM Style CS. I don't find the pliers on the Keychain sized tools very useful as pliers, more like the best tweezers ever. So the CS replaces pliers with really good scissors and it has tweezers in the scale so, double win. I also like the lightness and thinness of the Style, it is truly easily forgotten on a keychain.

But I only carry OPTs on my keychain now. Currently the NiteIze Key-looking-thing.

The CS rides in the Skinth with my Wave, now.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: sabesh on May 04, 2016, 10:00:42 PM
Victorinox Manager > Any other 58mm Victorinox > Leatherman Micra > Leatherman Squirt PS4

Gerber Dime is garb all the way around. Style PS scissors usually break themselves for no reason.
I carry a Victorinox Manager too. Fits into the small front pocket on my jeans.
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160504/37c3c7bcf8e868adb9014f2a0bfce144.jpg)

Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Weasel on May 18, 2016, 10:58:30 PM
Victorinox rambler for me , a very handy little tool
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: ThePeacent on May 21, 2016, 12:47:10 PM
I'd have to add these two to the "Favorite" section because I've found they're the ones that get more use on a daily basis.

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/13051653_1063728193689026_5619622297779762966_n_zpsm5hpekyw.jpg)

Dismantled an old PC Hardware tower with them today.

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/CAM01139_zpsi5yybtyj.jpg)
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: BlueDot on July 17, 2016, 12:53:04 AM
I have carried a leatherman PS4 at work.  Every day for the last 7 years or so.

Weekends I like to mix it up,  usually something bigger like a wingman or freestyle (today's carry).
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Huntsman on July 17, 2016, 01:49:53 AM
Gerber Dime
- Bad design. The stupid bottle opener makes the already too short file almost impossible to use. Why not putting the files on the box opener sides and also remove the not necessary bottle opener?
Gotta defend the Dime (BO) here. The BO IMHO is one of the best of all the multitools and certainly is not stupid!!
If you need to use the file just open the tool up.  ;)  :think:
However the file is pretty rubbish, as it's too small (as you say), and I think the file pattern is not that great.
But I do like the Dime (very cool looking) and I keep one in my desk drawer. Although looks never trump functionality  :o

These 'What is your favourite?...' questions are always so hard to respond to.
All my favourites have already been mentioned.

Re Scissors - I think the Vic 58mm scissors outperform all the others, except perhaps the Micra, I am less familiar with its scissors.
I rarely need pliers EDC and the Dime/PSx are all a bit big/fat for keychain carry for me.

So I will go with a Vic 58mm - But which one?
My most carried is a Swiss Lite (light and one slot for tp/tw) or Signature Lite (light/pen)  as these are on key bunches. Also carry the Classic sometimes. But I really should upgrade all these to a Rambler/Manager.

The problem I have is I love, and want to EDC, the light, the pen and the toothpick (tweezers less important, but still handy) - and there are only two slots  :rant:

So this requirement is usually sorted by carrying another SAK

Also a big thumbs up to the Utilikey - This always goes with me when I fly as it will get through airport security.

Talking of larger SAKs - The question to which I responded was: 'What is your favourite key chain multitool?'  ???
- So to answer the actual question I think I will respond:
Wenger Evo 13: Blade, Scissors, openers, tp, tw, nail file - all in a very nice package - Brilliant  :tu:
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: ThePeacent on July 18, 2016, 02:46:54 PM
To answer your question, yes, Micra scissors have no rival

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/CAM02560_zpsc25pnbwn.jpg)

I wholeheartedly recommend trying one as an EDC tool!

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/CAM02555_zpsypduvdfu.jpg)
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Joseph Gonzalez on August 03, 2016, 02:19:36 AM
My vote goes to the Leatherman PS4. I was able to find one with the torx screws and carry it on a daily basis. I've got a Victorinox Pioneer X that will probably join it and my Spyderco Ambitious in my EDC kit.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Yadda on August 03, 2016, 02:26:03 AM
Style CS
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: DaveK on August 03, 2016, 02:36:19 AM
Easy this one - my Raker Ring Tool.

I only use it for prying, tightening camera quick-release plates and opening packets, but its probably my most used tool.

(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e10/DaveK-ToolPics/IMG_0722_zpskjyv5fx4.jpg) (http://s36.photobucket.com/user/DaveK-ToolPics/media/IMG_0722_zpskjyv5fx4.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: mrog on August 31, 2016, 03:42:05 AM
Victorinox Rambler > Any other 58mm Victorinox > Leatherman Micra > Leatherman Squirt PS4 > Leatherman Style PS > Any other small Leatherman >>>>> Gerber Dime
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: ThePeacent on September 01, 2016, 05:38:45 PM
Victorinox Rambler > Any other 58mm Victorinox > Leatherman Micra > Leatherman Squirt PS4 > Leatherman Style PS > Any other small Leatherman >>>>> Gerber Dime

I don't agree with all those, in that particular order, but yeah

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-08/CAM04318_zpsqbgmotol.jpg)

the Rambler's awesome

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-08/CAM04277_zpskyve73dw.jpg)

A neat tool for its size, maybe the champion of the 58mm line!  :tu:
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: RR1551 on June 15, 2018, 10:47:18 PM
A custom SAK:

Sent from my SM-G955U using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: BePrepared on June 17, 2018, 10:20:01 AM
LM Squirt PS4.  I modded it to remove the file and replaced it with the awl and small eye-glass driver from the older PS range.  If I want to go bladeless (or end up carrying a dedicated blade...  :whistle: ) I can swap the blade for the file (not done it yet, so need to check nail nicks).  Added into my pocket sheath is a Thrunite Ti3, a pen, and a generic small pry bar tool, and I'm ready to go!   :)

I also have a black Vic Classic on my keychain, which I've had over 20 years --- but only recently is it a regular on the keychain.  At office keys stay in my bag, as we have electronic swipe cards for doors, but the Squirt kit stays in my pocket.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Ayik goyep on June 23, 2018, 07:07:01 PM
My favorite keychain..
That everyday iam bring to my workplace...
On power station
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Ayik goyep on June 28, 2018, 07:39:38 AM
My favorite keychain..
That everyday iam bring to my workplace...
On power station


That is my revision for my keychain, all stuf are handmade or DIY, except my SAK, USB and a cigarete, consists of :

1. Keychain duct tape (DIY)
2. USB 8 gb
3. SAK
4. Utility cutter razor (DIY)
5. Cigarrete
6. lighter (DIY)
7. key chain suspension clip (DIY)

Best regrads
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: alexTOOL on August 18, 2018, 12:19:07 AM
Talking of larger SAKs - The question to which I responded was: 'What is your favourite key chain multitool?'  ???
- So to answer the actual question I think I will respond:
Wenger Evo 13: Blade, Scissors, openers, tp, tw, nail file - all in a very nice package - Brilliant  :tu:

Wenger Evo 13 is 85 mm full sak. It is not a keychain tool.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Vidar on August 18, 2018, 10:39:53 AM
My vote goes to the Leatherman Micra. I've lost more of those than I like to think about.  Oh no, now I'm thinking about it  :ahhh
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: ThePeacent on August 18, 2018, 01:07:28 PM
in the months (years?) since I first responded to this thread,
I've grown very fond of the Squirt S4 over the Micra  :angel:

(https://i.imgur.com/cRcWlMf.jpg)
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: gregozedobe on August 18, 2018, 03:53:52 PM
These days a LM Squirt P4 is my only EDC tool.  It is small enough that I don't notice it in my pocket, but when I need it it's ready & waiting for whatever light duty tasks I want to do..
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Aloha on August 18, 2018, 04:06:52 PM
These days a LM Squirt P4 is my only EDC tool.  It is small enough that I don't notice it in my pocket, but when I need it it's ready & waiting for whatever light duty tasks I want to do..

I'm with you gregozedobe but I have to also carry my Manager.  The scissors and pen are so handy. 
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: ChopperCharles on August 31, 2018, 11:27:26 PM
I love my minichamp. It's on the keyring to my jeep, so it's usually with me. However, I think the scissors on the Schrade DL-2 are better. They're springless, they have a slimmer profile, and they're sharp as blazes. They're much better at trimming fingernails, at least. The Minichamp is no slouch, but the DL-2 scissors are just better.  I do also really like the scales on the DL-2, they're really deep and glossy. With a blade, a nail file, and scissors it's like a Victorinox SD... but even smaller!

I don't really EDC my DL-2s, as I'm collecting tool and auto/moto related advertising on SD-sized knives. But if I had call to use a Victorinox SD.... I'd get a Schrade DL-2 instead.


The Texaco and Snap-On are Schrade DL-2's. The Michelin is a Victorinox SD, for size comparison

Charles.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: AimlessWanderer on September 01, 2018, 12:40:15 AM
Victorinox Rambler/Manager

Second place goes to the Wenger Pocket Tool Chest/Evo 88, and it would win outright if it had the Phillips combo tool and the SD file from the Rambler
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: theonew on September 02, 2018, 01:34:15 AM
Just curious, what do you like so much about the SD file on the Rambler?
You could probably mod the one on a PTC to be similar in shape :think:

I'm also a big fan of the combo phillips :tu:
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: AimlessWanderer on September 02, 2018, 02:08:08 AM
Just curious, what do you like so much about the SD file on the Rambler?
You could probably mod the one on a PTC to be similar in shape :think:

I'm also a big fan of the combo phillips :tu:

The combo tool on the PTC does the job of the SD file tip, but if you swapped the combo tool to the Phillips type, you'd need a SD tip on the file to replace that function.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: ChopperCharles on September 02, 2018, 03:29:15 AM
Check this little thing out. I got two of these little guys in a big lot of multi tools. It’s branded PokeTech, is made in Taiwan, and is labeled US PAT No. Des 414092. Interesting enough, the pliers are the part that is patented. The tool load is not included in the patent.

The pliers themselves are VERY similar to victorinox 91mm pliers. Just a hair larger and a hair thinner. The tool load reminds me of Vintage Coast multi tools. The opener in particular is a Coast design.  The file is heat treated and quite nice, it’s a dull finish not stainless like the rest. The main blade is sharp enough to cut paper, and the serrated blade goes through paracord quite nicely. All the drivers are decent, slightly rounded corners on some but not bad at all. Some are machined after polishing and have sharp corners. The lanyard loop is redundant but everything else is useful and works well - even the 2D Phillips driver.

The pliers take a lot more force than victorinox pliers, due to the form factor obviously. They do deflect at the tips a little easier though. The teeth are well formed and grippy enough for the size. This is a super small, and yet super useful little tool. I like it!

Charles.

Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: smiller43147 on September 06, 2018, 03:43:35 AM
Interesting tool.  Looks like it has two bottle openers too.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: ChopperCharles on September 06, 2018, 04:11:19 PM
No, just one bottle opener -- actually one combo bottle/can opener. The other small bottle opener looking thing is just a nail nick, and is on the small flat driver and lanyard loop. It's just a nail lift for the center tool, it's far, FAR too small to be a bottle opener. It's hard to get the scale of a thing in a pic, but this tool is TINY. The pliers are the same size as Victorinox 91mm pliers, so the tools are far smaller than SAK tools.

Charles.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: pfrsantos on September 11, 2018, 07:02:21 PM
My favorite keychain..
That everyday iam bring to my workplace...
On power station


That is my revision for my keychain, all stuf are handmade or DIY, except my SAK, USB and a cigarete, consists of :

1. Keychain duct tape (DIY)
2. USB 8 gb
3. SAK
4. Utility cutter razor (DIY)
5. Cigarrete
6. lighter (DIY)
7. key chain suspension clip (DIY)

Best regrads

Very good, Ayik! That SAK seems to have had lots of use.

 :cheers: :tu:
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Huntsman on September 24, 2018, 05:07:50 PM
Talking of larger SAKs - The question to which I responded was: 'What is your favourite key chain multitool?'  ???
- So to answer the actual question I think I will respond:
Wenger Evo 13: Blade, Scissors, openers, tp, tw, nail file - all in a very nice package - Brilliant  :tu:
Wenger Evo 13 is 85 mm full sak. It is not a keychain tool.

The OP question is  .........  "What is your favourite small sized multitool"
And this is the question to which I responded  ...... The Wenger S13  :pok:

Would you disagree that it is a small sized mutitool?

However most people responded to this question with a key chain tool

I never said the S13 was a key chain tool 
However .... Who is to say you could not put an 85mm SAK on a keychain     :think:    Some people do !!

Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: alexTOOL on September 26, 2018, 01:16:04 PM
Talking of larger SAKs - The question to which I responded was: 'What is your favourite key chain multitool?'  ???
- So to answer the actual question I think I will respond:
Wenger Evo 13: Blade, Scissors, openers, tp, tw, nail file - all in a very nice package - Brilliant  :tu:
Wenger Evo 13 is 85 mm full sak. It is not a keychain tool.

The OP question is  .........  "What is your favourite small sized multitool"
And this is the question to which I responded  ...... The Wenger S13  :pok:

Would you disagree that it is a small sized mutitool?

However most people responded to this question with a key chain tool

I never said the S13 was a key chain tool 
However .... Who is to say you could not put an 85mm SAK on a keychain     :think:    Some people do !!

You can also attach a truck to a keychain... :D
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Joris Debaere on October 27, 2018, 06:15:30 AM
i'm in love with my swisstool spirit.  :multi:
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: cody6268 on November 01, 2018, 04:29:21 PM
I know a friend who carries a Kershaw Chive on his keys. To me, I don't see the point in anything bigger than a Classic or Ladybug on someone's keys. Maybe an Executive at the biggest.   I have a 4" County Comm bar, which many carry on their keys, but for me, it's separate, down with the pliers in the right front pocket.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: ChopperCharles on May 15, 2019, 11:38:44 PM
Check this little thing out. I got two of these little guys in a big lot of multi tools. It’s branded PokeTech, is made in Taiwan, and is labeled US PAT No. Des 414092. Interesting enough, the pliers are the part that is patented. The tool load is not included in the patent.

The pliers themselves are VERY similar to victorinox 91mm pliers. Just a hair larger and a hair thinner. The tool load reminds me of Vintage Coast multi tools. The opener in particular is a Coast design.  The file is heat treated and quite nice, it’s a dull finish not stainless like the rest. The main blade is sharp enough to cut paper, and the serrated blade goes through paracord quite nicely. All the drivers are decent, slightly rounded corners on some but not bad at all. Some are machined after polishing and have sharp corners. The lanyard loop is redundant but everything else is useful and works well - even the 2D Phillips driver.

The pliers take a lot more force than victorinox pliers, due to the form factor obviously. They do deflect at the tips a little easier though. The teeth are well formed and grippy enough for the size. This is a super small, and yet super useful little tool. I like it!

Charles.

Update: I found more information. The Pocket Tech (not PokeTech, apparently the single T is meant to be printed twice in literature) tool is made by, or at least imported by, Stanley. "Pocket Tech" may or may not be a stanley designation. If you search eBay for "stanley max edge mini multi tool", you'll find several examples for sale. The tool was made in the late 90s. The patent was granted in 1998, but it was obviously sold while the patent was still pending.

Mine is apparently an early version, because it does not have the "US Patent No 6038735" imprint, only the "US Pat No Des 414092". The stanley-branded models have both. Not sure what the "Des" refers to.

It was also available in a gift set with a maglite solitare.

https://www.adsources.com/brands/stanley/tapemsr1.htm

Charles.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Dutch_Tooler on May 16, 2019, 08:06:10 AM
Des stands for US Design Patent (see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Design_patent), which is legal protection for an ornamental design of a functional item.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: ChopperCharles on May 16, 2019, 04:55:27 PM
Also, the stanley branded tools appear to have less polishing. The teeth on the jaws are more sharply defined, and my tool doesn't have the text on the phillips driver.

Charles.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: bryan123 on January 11, 2023, 02:50:37 PM
I've tried a lot of them and my favorites are

1.  Micra, the keychain multitool that has stood the test of time
2.  SAK Classic SD paired with a Nite Ize  Doohickey.

The SAK Doohickey pairing has similar functionality to the Micra more or less, and weighs less.

Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: charlie fox on January 11, 2023, 03:00:22 PM
Probably going to catch some hate but as much as I love SAKs, they wouldn't be my first choice in a small tool. That honor (or horror) would go to my Gerber Dime. Sure it's not the best or the prettiest, but it has all the tools I might need during the day and I don't mind abusing it a little. Both of mine have many miles on them and refuse to give up. To paraphrase Dirty Harry; a tool's got to know it's limitations. I know the Dime's and still carry it ;)
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Echotech on January 11, 2023, 10:40:02 PM
Probably going to catch some hate but as much as I love SAKs, they wouldn't be my first choice in a small tool. That honor (or horror) would go to my Gerber Dime. Sure it's not the best or the prettiest, but it has all the tools I might need during the day and I don't mind abusing it a little. Both of mine have many miles on them and refuse to give up. To paraphrase Dirty Harry; a tool's got to know it's limitations. I know the Dime's and still carry it ;)

 :iagree:
I actually carry a Rambler but used to carry a Dime and always liked it too....think we're in the minority though Charlie
 :cheers:
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Blunt Object on January 13, 2024, 10:13:24 PM
Before there was much to choose from, I always had a small pen knife as my keyring tool. Then when the markets opened up (that is, when we started to have quality imports from US of A), I had a FRN-handled Dragonfly as my key fob. Anything smaller would feel like waste of space, if it only had the blade and nothing else.

The first real tool was the Micra for years and years. It is still very adequate, but I rotate, because I can! Then Squirt PS4, after which it has been SAKs, now I'm kinda stuck with the Alox Mini Champ, because it is such a marvel of miniature engineering. I tried going with Rambler, but I'm an Alox man through and through, and there's still no Alox Rambler (Victorinox, you listening?)

With a light and SAK my keyring is maxed out, all the rest of my tools will be in my bag, except my EDC knife.

So, short answer: Mini Champ and close second Micra.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: nate j on January 14, 2024, 01:24:33 AM
…there's still no Alox Rambler (Victorinox, you listening?)
I agree an Alox Rambler might be the ideal key chain tool.

Some Alox Ramblers were in fact produced as SFOs in fairly small quantities about ten years ago, but they are difficult to find now.  Why it isn’t part of the standard lineup, I’m sure I don’t know.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Huntsman on January 15, 2024, 02:11:58 PM
Yeah Nate

Even better idea? 
...... Now we have all the other Classic colours (Alox and cellidor) to choose from ..... the Annual Alox LE small model should be Rambler

How good would that be ?   ???    :think:
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: nate j on January 16, 2024, 02:35:36 AM
the Annual Alox LE small model should be Rambler

How good would that be ?   ???    :think:
Well, I’d probably have to get a lifetime supply the first year (even if I didn’t love the color), just in case Vic decided not to make it an annual thing…
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: cody6268 on January 17, 2024, 01:27:35 AM
LM Squirt P4--everything the PST has, in something that doesn't weigh a whole heckuva lot.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Aloha on January 17, 2024, 06:57:16 PM
 :iagree:  Squirt is a heck of a small powerhouse. 
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: nate j on January 18, 2024, 01:00:45 AM
LM Squirt P4--everything the PST has, in something that doesn't weigh a whole heckuva lot.
Squirt is a heck of a small powerhouse.

I am glad they work well for you guys.

I was initially excited about them, as they are a very pocketable size, have some useful functions, and are better quality than most of their competitors.

However, I broke the pivot on a Squirt cutting the end off a pin.  I suppose it is probably my fault for pushing it outside its capabilities.  It’s also possible I just got a rare lemon.  Regardless, I lost confidence in the tool at that point, and no longer carry them.
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Aloha on January 18, 2024, 07:33:17 PM
I can fully understand that. The scissor spring was also faulty for many users on the PS4s.  So far the PS4s I have are all in tact. 

I went from carrying a full size MT on my off days to a Squirt and never looked back.  I did have a quick romance with a Gerber Dime but that fizzled.   :D 
Title: Re: Your favorite small sized multitool
Post by: Dutch_Tooler on January 21, 2024, 10:28:28 AM
 :iagree:

Although it's been on and off with a MiniChamp, lately it's my recently acquired*) Squirt Ps4 which sits in my 5th pocket.

*) I was lucky as they were still selling off old Squirt stock on the German LM site last year. Now that the sites have apparently been unified, Squirts are no longer available even here. Funny thing - and this goes to show I'm not getting any younger - I shortly thereafter found the other Squirt I knew I had owned but thought I'd either sold or lost... :facepalm: