Victorinox SwissTool and Other Multitools

About ten or so years ago, I got what I think has been the single most appreciated Christmas present I ever got: my Victorinox SwissTool 3.0327. I had asked for it because I was often being asked to help people out with computer things, and I needed a sort of mini-tool kit that I could easily take along with me.

At the time, multitools were a relatively new category, the main player being Leatherman. I chose the SwissTool because, again at the time, it was unique in combining features of: comfort, blade accessibility, blade variety, blade locking, and company reputation (Swiss Army Knife, anyone?).

Now, about a decade later, there has been an explosion of multitools. What was once a niche tool for outdoors people has become one of spectacular specialization. There seems to be a multitool for just about any task you want to engage in, whether it be for work or play.  I can’t comment on their durability or their usability features, but most seem to be at least modestly useful. Certainly useful enough to tuck one away in every vehicle you own…after all, you never know.

For me, I’m sticking with my SwissTool. SInce they aren’t the easiest things to find (nor the least expensive), I don’t think you can go too far wrong with any other manufacturer. They don’t replace even a modest toolbox for ordinary tasks, but when you are out in the field and you need a screwdriver, or a saw, or a pair of pliers…well, you’ll be thankful every time you whip one of these puppies out. Highly recommended.