The Knife Vault

Swiss Army Tool

“Multi-tool” is name given to a variety of products that are: portable, many functioned, all-in-one, hand tools that are versatile and combine several individual tools in a single grip. The Victorinox Swiss Card is in essence a multi-tool.

Multi-tools have been around for centuries. The Romans had a multi-tool that was probably used for eating. It had a pick, fork, spatula, knife and a spike.

You will find a plethora of styles and makers of the multi-tool, from the simplest Swiss Army Classic (knife, file/screw driver, tooth pick, tweezers) to the Swiss Champ that has 80 functions. Some versions are specific to sports, golf, hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities. Victorinox have also added a flash drive to their multi-tool knives.

They were created to be small enough to be carried in the pocket/purse or in a pouch attached to the belt.

The type that has become synonymous for multi-tool is the Leatherman. It usually contains a pair of folding pliers with wire cutters and also has an assortment of other folding tools such as knives and screw drivers.

No matter the make or type of multi-tool you have, they are not intended for prolonged use. The grips are not very ergonomic and tend to tire the hand if used for long tedious work.