A common problem during deployment is finding a multitool that is dependable. This got me thinking about what multitools were best for military needs and how you should go about finding one.
One of the most nerve racking feelings is being deployed and not having a dependable multitool. So I did a little research about what multitools make good tools for military or tactical applications. Multitools usually fail during deployment because they either aren’t quality made or they become too heavy or cumbersome to carry around. They also are easy to lose or misplace, which happens with just about every tool. Let’s look in to these common problems that make finding a multitool for deployment difficult and what you need to do about it.
Our top picks are the Leatherman Raptor and the Leatherman MUT EOD Multitool. Additionally, our cost per tool analysis breaks down each Leatherman Multitool to show you where the value lies.
Best Multitools for Deployment
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Both Leatherman and Gerber offer multitools with the tasks of the military and first responders in mind. The first is the new Leatherman Raptor which is designed for medics and first responder teams. This tool features foldable medical shears, an oxygen tank wrench, strap/ring cutters, and a glass breaker. Most of these tools are not found on any other multitool currently offered.
Leatherman Raptor
Click to check the price of the Leatherman Raptor at Amazon
Another popular multitool that has proven itself on the battlefield and remains a top pick for those looking for reliability and performance is the Leatherman MUT EOD Multitool.
The Leatherman MUT EOD features the following 15 tools:
- Needlenose Pliers.
- Stranded-wire Cutters.
- 154CM Replaceable Fuse-wire Cutters.
- Military Performance Spec Cap Crimper.
- Electrical Crimper.
- 420HC Combo Knife.
- Replaceable Cutting Hook.
- Bolt Override Tool.
- Replaceable C4 Punch.
- Replaceable Bronze Carbon Scraper.
- #8-32 Cleaning Rod/Brush Adapters.
- Carabiner/Bottle Opener.
- Large Bit Driver.
This multitool is the epitome of military deployment. The bolt override tool and replaceable C4 punch is what every EOD team needs. Our cost per tool analysis indicates the MUT has a cost ratio of $10 for every tool it’s equipped with. This is in line with other specialty multitools.
Leatherman MUT EOD Multitool
Click to check the price of the Leatherman MUT EOD at Amazon
If smaller is your thing, the Gerber Dime is another multitool you should consider. Its small size can fit in your pocket easily or even on a key chain. It has 10 of the most popular tools which will meet most needs, but considerably cuts down on weight and bulkiness for long missions. It only weighs 2.2 ounces!
Gerber Dime
Click to check the price of the Gerber Dime at Amazon
Here’s a great clip of what you can expect to achieve with a multitool for deployment
What Makes a Multitool Good For Deployment?
Multitools for deployment must be capable of holding up in the most demanding situations and provide enough uses to warrant its place on the belt or chest rig. Most of the best multitools for this purpose are lightweight and extremely compact.
Top multitools today have close to 20 tools which will meet almost any need that should arise. This aspect makes multitools essential items for their compact frame. Ergonomic designs like one handed opening are important aspects to consider as well and should not be discounted.
When choosing a multitool for your next deployment, make sure it’s built with quality and not a Chinese made piece of junk. Stainless steel is preferable due to its corrosion resistance and many of the best multitools even have corrosion resistant polymer coatings. The final aspect is that it must be light and compact for long hikes and maneuverability.
Who Makes Quality Multitools for Deployment?
When choosing a multitool for deployment, it comes down to Leatherman or Gerber. Both are well respected multitool manufacturers that have built their reputation on making quality tools. They are also extremely innovative, filling new niches and developing task driven tools specifically designed for deployment and military applications.
Both Leatherman and Gerber Multitools have up to 25 year warranties as they stand behind their products. Many of the new plier systems installed on multitools can be changed out, thus eliminating the need to purchase a new multitool like in the past. These features and reliability are the reasons you should stick with Leatherman and Gerber when you choose a multitool for your next deployment.
Multitools are like every other item, in that you get what you pay for. Buying quality from Leatherman or Gerber might be a little more expensive, but when lives are on the line, as they often are in military situations, the last thing you should cut corners on is a tool you’re relying on to be there for almost any task that may arise.
About Multitools
Multitools are a logical solution to a common problem. Where did all my tools go and why don’t I have it with me? These questions are just a memory with the right multitool on your belt.
There’s really no reason not to carrying a multitool very day either. You may think that they are cumbersome and heavy, but that’s really not the case anymore. Multitools have gone through a serious revamp recently that have not only reduced their profile, but made them lighter as well.
What makes multitools so efficient?
- Compact and lightweight tool set
- Wide range of tools to choose from
- Cheaper to buy than individual tools
- It goes where you go.
- All your tools are just an arm length away.
Some of the best multitools now have 20 or more tools that can accomplish just about any task you throw at it on a moment’s notice. From chores around the house to a military environment, multitools are the best way to keep tools compact and handy.
Additionally, multitools are usually less expensive than buying each tool individually. If you’ve looked at tool sets recently, they are rather expensive. Avoid paying more for the same capabilities by purchasing a good multitool that can do the same job but offers so much more.
Bottom Line
Finding a good multitool for deployment doesn’t have to be difficult. Quality and reliability lead to dependability and ultimately completing your assigned mission. Plenty of multitools will fit this need, but not all are designed specifically for the military. The Leatherman MUT EOD should be a part of every military member’s field pack. Its 15 tools are specifically designed for military tasks like bolt clearing and a C4 punch.
If you are a military medic or first responder, the Leatherman Raptor has all the tools for you to do your job efficiently. From an air bottle wrench to medical shears, it’s a compact medical tool that is one of a kind. Our cost per tool analysis indicates the Raptor has a cost ratio of $11.66 for every tool it’s equipped with. This is on the high end compared to other Leatherman Multitools.
And for your long hikes with heavy packs, the Gerber Dime is a popular multitool that is extremely lightweight at only 2.2 ounces. It’s 10 tools can accomplish most regular tasks, but with its compact size, you’ll never have an excuse for not carrying it around.
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