Small Multi-Tools / Keychain Pocket Knives

For a survivalist, there is always a trade-off between bulk and convenience. Few of us are willing to cart a 20kg go bag with us every where we go (picture a Valentine’s Day date…)

So it is worth considering which items can always be on your person without having a downside. A tool/knife is one of them (be very sure about local regulations!).

I carry the Leatherman Squirt P4. It is roughly the dimensions of a mini Bic lighter, or a 9 volt battery, and fits in with your keys well – but does add weight. Maybe 56 grams doesn’t sound like much, but that’s equivalent to 7 keys.

Everything aside from the pliers and wire cutter is available from when it is closed, providing speed of access:

1. Spring-action Needlenose Pliers
2. Spring-action Regular Pliers
3. Spring-action Wire Cutters
6. 420HC Knife
7. Spring-action Scissors
8. Metal/Wood File
10. Medium Screwdriver
11. Small/Phillips Screwdriver
12. Bottle Opener

Nothing is better about this tool (relative to other tools) except for its size. Don’t get this unless size is all that matters. Having said that, it is fully-functional and the quality is the equal of larger tools. The knife is quality and will easily last and function until you get to your better gear. A small multitool is simply a little bit fiddlier and has less leverage / requires more effort.

The main competitor – at this size – is the Gerber Dime.

1. Spring-action Needlenose Pliers
2. Standard Pliers
3. Wire Cutters
4. Tweezers
5. Bottle Opener
6. Fine Edge Blade
7. Package Opener
8. Scissors
9. Medium Flat Driver
10. Coarse & Fine File
11. Cross Driver
12. Lanyard Ring

They are very similar in size, functionality and quality.

The Dime has a much better bottle opener, and it is more convenient. Which is great for every day scenarios but not really a survival factor. Maybe just leave a bottle opener with your beers…

The pliers are not as good, with more of a gap between them when closed.

It also has tweezers (potentially highly useful) and is a lot cheaper than the Squirt. So, the Dime is a solid choice, but if you can afford it, I recommend the Squirt.