The idea was invented by Tim Leatherman at a time when he was holidaying in Europe. He realised that Swiss Army Knives were up to his more demanding work and developed a tool that included a decent pair of pliers, in addition to other things a person would be sure to locate in a Swiss Army Knife: screwdrivers, a knife plus a can opener.

Various companies prior to him manufactured comparable tools on a much smaller basis, but Leatherman introduced multi tools in vast quantities. Over two decades later, Leatherman remains the market leader.

Differences with Swiss Army Knives:

The biggest variation between multi tools and Swiss Army Knives is still the set of pliers. Although some Swiss Army Knives are equipped with pliers, they are only suitable for easy jobs. A multi tool is also very different: it is bigger, so you can carry it in your hand far easier. The weight of multi tools is possibly a disadvantage: in most cases you get more tools per weight in a Swiss Army Knife. Many people also feel that the quality of Swiss Army Knives is beyond comparison in today's multi tools, so that is a second option.

Which Option to go for?

If you wish for pliers, you without a doubt need a multi tool. If you wish for knives, it boils down to personal choice, but realise that the blades in both multi tools and Swiss Army Knives are in some cases not quite as good as superior knives. Those who depend on knives typically carry both a knife and a multi tool.

If you require screwdrivers it would be a good idea to try out various options of both multi tools plus swiss army knives, because manufacturer's designs of what is a small or a phillips screwdriver vary a lot. Both Swiss Army Knives and multi tools have models with bit holders available.

If you require a tool for tough tasks, opt for a substantial multi tool, like the Leatherman Super Tool 300 or the Leatherman Surge, or even the Victorinox Swiss Tool.

Leatherman Surge And Leatherman Wave - A Detailed Look At Two Best Selling Leatherman Tools, Each Makes A Fantastic Buy
The Leatherman Surge is one of Leatherman Group's leading products in the market today but has the company surpassed its all time popular product the Leatherman Wave Pocket Multi Tool?

Leatherman - Select Between A Not So Big Leatherman Tool Or A Larger Leatherman Tool Packed With Numerous Features
I have always been a handyman around the house and I often get calls from people who need some sort of help - whether it's installing a microwave, getting a PC built, or building a deck outside the house.

Leatherman Wave ToolMulti Tool - Have It Engraved
The Leatherman Wave is a popular multi purpose tool. Much like a Swiss Army Knife, it has different tools that you can use around the house and beyond.

Leatherman Charge AL Pocket Tool - The First Choice Knife For Your Toolbox, The Forest And Campground
While a pocket knife is just a pocket knife, the Leatherman Charge AL multi tool goes beyond the knife and packs all your camping essentials into one tight parcel.

Leatherman Micra And Leatherman Juice - A Snapshot Of These Superbly Produced Products
The most stylish combo tools on the market just got juicier. The new Juice line of tools has the market cornered when it comes to stylish portable tools.

Leatherman Freestyle Tool- Boasts 5 Tools In 1
Leatherman UK has recently started to offer the Freestyle, this striking multi-tool/knife hybrid that can fold up to be marginally bigger than a pack of chewing gum.

Leatherman Super Tool 300 - The Original
Leatherman reintroduced the Super Tool with a variety of new and improved functions. The new Super Tool 300 (ST300) continues the long tradition of preparing the working man and DIYers alike, for the expected and unexpected.