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Multitools test

Carrying a multitool in your glovebox for emergencies is a great idea. But which one? We put 12 to the test to pick out the sharpest buys...

If you don’t have the boot space for an emergency toolkit, look no further than a multitool. These versatile gadgets are ideal for emergencies as they can tighten hoses, remove panels or solve electrical glitches. With so many different designs and prices, however, picking the ideal multitool can be tricky. To find out which is the best, we put 12 examples through their paces.

The test
WE cut and stripped auto wire and cable, used the blades and scissors on cloth, plus tried the screwdrivers on several screw sizes. A locking mechanism was essential for the tools, and they had to be comfortable to hold, as you can’t apply much pressure if there are sharp edges digging into the palms of your hands. The range of equipment, build quality and cost were also factors.

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Contacts
Burton McCall, (Victorinox), 0116 234 4646 burton-mccall.co.uk
Sealey, 01284 757500, sealey.co.uk
Draper Tools, 02380 266355, draper.co.uk
Kore (Gerber), 0870 728 0696, gerberuk.com
Whitby & Co, (Leatherman), 01539 721032, whitbyandco.co.uk
Halfords (Phaze), 0845 762 6625, halfords.com
Bahco, 01709 731731, bahco.com
True Utility, 01202 766333, trueutility.com
 

Verdict

SWISS Army Knife producer Victorinox has the competition snipped with the CS. Build quality was unrivalled and the range of tools huge. If the CS is beyond your budget, opt for the Gerber Suspension. Victorinox also takes third place with the comprehensive Spirit.

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