I Tested 4 Multitools - ONLY 1 Knife Hikes With Me When you’re out on the trail, a good knife or multitool is more than just a gadget — it’s a problem solver. Come With Us as we show you 4 different tools, the features of each, critical comparisons, and decide which one deserves a permanent spot hiking with you. Let’s Get Started.
Here are links to the four tools if you would like to follow along:
Victorinox Swiss Tinker 14 function: https://amzn.to/4lm0NIo
Leatherman Wave: https://amzn.to/4ozwUXS
Victorinox Swiss Champ: https://amzn.to/40YfGZY
Bibury Multitool Pliers BI2038B, 22-in-1 https://amzn.to/41lV2TZ
For examples of the gear we took on our hike check out these links below for more details.
Teton Sports Hydration Pack Video Review: https://youtu.be/KEBrYwp8RQk
Amazon Link: 2021 model https://amzn.to/3SnKcGR
2022 model https://amzn.to/3vIogMZ
Camelbak Mini M.U.L.E hydration backpack Video Review for younger hikers: https://youtu.be/WbRgZr6C20g
Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3Zpj91p
Merrell Moab II Men's Hiking Shoes: https://amzn.to/3Ardw8k
The First Aid Kit we carry: https://amzn.to/3Lcvu2h
Trekking Poles: https://amzn.to/3DHj54L
Tactical Flashlights: https://amzn.to/3QLY25T
Compass: https://amzn.to/3GahGU5
Rescue Rope: https://amzn.to/3ZTLnTW
Here are dad joke books for great gifts: Dad Jokes Around the Campfire: https://amzn.to/3JinFJ2 600 Funniest Dad Jokes: https://amzn.to/3EPGv7D To view any product mentioned by us in our videos, click this link: https://www.amazon.com/shop/campbrood As an Amazon Associate, we earn a commission from qualifying purchases.
The Swiss Army Tinker, the Swiss Army Swiss Champ, the Leatherman Wave, and the Bibury Multitool Pliers BI2038B But, these are the knives that I’ve taken hiking with me, after doing my own research, and I go back to the same one again and again.
Should I bring a knife while hiking?
Bringing a knife on a hike is about being prepared for those small moments when a good tool can make your day easier and safer. I carry a knife mostly for convenience. Whether it’s cutting open a to package, trimming a stray piece of rope, fixing gear with a screwdriver on a multitool, or even helping with first aid in an emergency, a knife is one of those versatile tools that makes things easier. A lightweight multitool is often all you need to cover most tasks without adding unnecessary weight. Hike with a multitool and I guarantee you’ll use it more than you expect.
Let’s start with the Bibury Multitool Pliers BI2038B
If you’re looking for a budget multitool that still brings a lot to the table, the Bibury 22-in-1 is worth a look. It has pliers, wire cutters, multiple screwdrivers, a knife, saw, bottle opener, and more. At around ⅓rd the price of a Leatherman, it’s surprisingly capable. The pliers are decent for light work, though they don’t feel quite as strong or refined as the Wave’s. The locking mechanism on the tools is a nice safety feature
Next Let’s continue the conversation
Is the Swiss Army Swiss Champ Practical?
The Swiss Champ is the Tinker’s big brother — and when I say big, I mean big. It packs an incredible 33 functions, from a magnifying glass to a mini saw, pliers, scissors, fish scaler, and more. Mine does not have pliers but I’ll link to the one that does in the video description. It weighs 6.5 ounces, so you’ll notice it more in your pocket, but if you like being ready for anything, the Swiss Champ delivers like with the magnifying glass.
Number 3 on our list is the Leatherman Wave
The Leatherman Wave is the workhorse of the group. This is the one I often grab when I plan overnight trips. When I expect to be fixing or building something on the trail away from the car. It’s made of stainless steel, has 18 functions, and the pliers are strong enough to handle real pressure without flexing. The knives lock into place, the file can smooth down rough edges, and the saw is sharp enough for small wood projects. It weighs 8.5 ounces, so it’s heavier than the Swiss Army knives
Fourth on our list is the Victorinox Swiss Tinker
If you’re looking for a multitool that’s compact, lightweight, and simple, the Swiss Army Tinker is a classic. It weighs just 2.2 ounces and gives you 12 functions, including two blades, screwdrivers, a can opener, and a reamer. I love the Tinker for day hikes because it’s small enough to disappear in your pocket but still covers the basics like tweezers and a toothpick.
Is a Swiss Army Knife Better than a Leatherman?
For ultralight hikers, the Swiss Army Tinker is a perfect minimalist choice.
Timecodes:
0:00 What is a Good Knife for Hiking?
0:41 Should I bring a knife while hiking?
1:40 Is The Bibury Multitool Pliers BI2038B a Good Hiking Multitool?
2:36 Is the Swiss Army Swiss Champ Practical?
3:42 Is the Leatherman Wave a Good Hiking Multitool?
4:31 Is the Victorinox Swiss Tinker a Good Hiking Knife?
5:25 Hiking Multitool Side By Side Comparison
6:18 Is a Swiss Army Knife Better than a Leatherman?