Mini Multi-tools

Leatherman Micra
SOG Cross Cut
SOG Cross Grip
Buck Mini-Tool
Coast Micro-Pliers

Leatherman Micra

This is a very handy tool for those who require the ultimate in minimization. Steve, the resident minimalist of the GearReview.com team, prefers the Micra to the other tools he reviewed for backpacking and day hiking. The Micra offers several very useful implements in its small package and each one is made to high standards. Leatherman opted for scissors instead of the pliers as the main implement. There was considerable debate among testers as to whether a mini-tool should have scissors or pliers as the main implement. This may never be settled, but for those who like scissors, the Micra is a great tool.

SOG Cross Cut & Cross Grip

SOG has tried to settle the debate over scissors or pliers by offering mini tools with each. These tools were built to last and inspire confidence when using them, even though they are mini tools. The pliers on the Cross Grip have a similar gear reduction as the full-size SOG and are surprisingly stout for small pliers. The SOG ranked very high with several of Jim's engineering associates and most felt it could be a near perfect mini-tool with the addition of a small pair of scissors. Many testers thought the tweezers on both SOG mini-tools were too wide but this was a very minor criticism.

Buck Mini-tool

The Buck mini-tool combines both small pliers and scissors into the tool. This tool also is much smaller than either the Leatherman or SOG tools. Depending on your intended use, this could be either a good or bad thing. Those who are looking for the smallest possible mini-tool, either to fit a pocket or for packing, would prefer the Buck to the others. Though one must sacrifice something for the smaller size. That something is ruggedness. Because the Buck is so small it is not a very strong, rugged tool, like the Leatherman and SOG tools. Once again, this is a matter of individual preference.

Coast Cutlery Micro-Pliers

Coast's Micro-Pliers is the least expensive of the included mini-tools and, as expected, lacks the power and balance of the other three minis. It is designed for the cost-conscience shopper who may not be willing to fork over $50 for a multi-tool they're going to throw in the bottom of the tackle box.

Choosing affordability over eloquence, one reviewer stated that if he were purchasing a mini-tool for his kid, he would probably go with the Coast.

After all is said and done, maybe the Micro-Pliers' affordability makes it the best choice for a young Boy Scout. 800.426.5858

Darren Scruggs is a contributing editor at GearReview.com