I love a full-sized multi-tool as much as the next person, but when I'm trying to carry light or even want something TSA-approved, I reach for a smaller multi-tool that fits on my keychain.You don't always need a big Leatherman.Plus, some people have no desire to carry something that big and heavy.
With that in mind, here are several capable options worth buying or that you might prefer to the bigger EDC you've been carrying for years.NexTool Mini Flagship F12 Tiny and mighty Close The old Leatherman I've had for years is an indispensable tool that I carry around all the time.But sometimes I want something a little smaller for when I'm wearing shorts, or a good tool to put on my keychain.
Over the last 4–5 years, NexTool has become a force in the space, consistently releasing excellent products at wallet-friendly price points.A prime example is the NexTool Mini Flagship, also known as the F12.It's a premium multi-tool that's a hair over 2.5 inches tall when closed, all while still offering 13 different tools at your disposal.
There's a reason they call it a "keychain multi-tool," it's perfect for your keyring.The F12 Mini Flagship opens to be under 4 inches tall and includes reinforced pliers, a locking main blade, scissors, a file, two screwdrivers, a bottle opener, and more.I also really enjoy the glow-in-the-dark ends that make it easy to find at night, similar to the limited-edition Leatherman Signal Sandstorm.
Best of all, the NexTool Mini Flagship is only $37 and comes in four colors.NexTool Mini Flagship F12 13 essential tools all in one tiny package that'll fit great on your keychain. See at Amazon Expand Collapse Gerber Shard DT Your keyring companion If you're a tiny multi-tool fan, you probably recognize the original Gerber Shard in our photo at the top of the page.And while it's great, I prefer the Gerber Shard DT for my keys.
It's a tiny, affordable, 3-in-1 tool you'll absolutely love.Gerber's Shard DT runs you $11 and comes in multiple different color options and designs.It's a tiny problem-solver that's great for opening packages or bottles, tightening a quick screw with the cross driver, or handling other random tasks throughout the day.
Related 4 capable multi-tools under $50 that are worth buying You don't need to spend a ton on your EDC.Posts 3 By Cory Gunther It's durable, lightweight, and generally considered TSA-approved because it doesn't feature a blade.I've had this on my keychain for over a year and reach for it far more than I ever expected.
It's pretty great.Victorinox Rambler Swiss Army 10 functions in a small package This list wouldn't be complete without mentioning Victorinox in some capacity.We all love a good Swiss Army knife, and you probably remember your dad or grandpa carrying one around with them 24/7.
The Victorinox Rambler is a tiny knife with 10 different tools.This Swiss-made tool gives you a blade, scissors, a magnetic screwdriver, a bottle opener, a pry bar, wire strippers, and more.And don't forget about the included tweezers and toothpick.
It's the ideal size for your keychain, has everything you'd need, and it's only $34 on Amazon.Nite Ize Doohickey Key Tool A keychain 5-in-1 Close Nite Ize is a weird brand that makes a little bit of everything.The company has tons of accessories for your phones, cables, garage, or daily life needs, like the neat Doohickey tool.
For whatever reason, the popular Doohickey Key Tool is no longer on Amazon, but you can get it right from Nite Ize for $7.Attached to your keychain and ready for anything, the stainless steel body features a box cutter, flathead screwdriver, multiple wrench sizes, a ruler, and the all-important bottle opener.Similar to the Gerber Shard DT, this doesn't have a blade, so in theory, it'll be safe for travel and airlines.
OKNIFE Otacle D1 EDC Screwdriver All the bits Close Last but certainly not least, I wanted to mention the KNIFE Otacle D1.And while this isn't your standard "multi-tool," it does serve multiple purposes in one tiny package.The Otacle D1 is a 9-in-1 screwdriver that easily fits on any keychain.
On the outside, you'll enjoy a durable titanium frame that's been sandblasted for a stunning finish.Inside, it houses 4 double-ended bits and a pencil tip, covering 9 specific sizes.You're getting Phillips, T6, T8, and others.
More importantly, two magnetic bit holders give it even more versatility.Use it like a regular screwdriver with any of the bits, or mount it near the top when you need more torque and twist more like a wrench.If you don't want to carry a bunch of scissors and other things, but are always doing something handy, this is a solid option worth considering for only $35.
Be prepared for life's daily tasks A solid multi-tool is one of those everyday carry items I think everyone should have.That said, it's understandable if you don't want to lug around a big Leatherman or constantly worry about a knife in your pocket or on your hip.That's where these fun, tiny, yet capable multi-tools come in.
Feel free to start small with something like the Gerber Shard DT.You'll be surprised by just how often you use it.
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