Top Multi-Tools for Wilderness Survival

When venturing into the wilderness, having reliable gear can mean the difference between a challenging situation and a life-threatening emergency. As experts in the functionality of all our kit, we can advise on the right tool for your specific needs. In this guide, we’ll share our top recommendations for multi-tools that deserve a place in your survival kit.

Leatherman Signal: The Ultimate Survival Multi-Tool

The Leatherman Signal is an outdoor multi-tool in a class of its own. What sets this remarkable tool apart is its combination of Leatherman's traditional functionality with specialised wilderness survival features.

The Signal comes equipped with 19 tools, including needlenose pliers, regular pliers, replaceable wire cutters, wire stripper and a versatile 420HC combo knife blade with both straight and serrated edges. It includes three critical components for survival: a shaped diamond-coated sharpener to maintain your blade, a ferrocerium rod for fire starting, and an emergency whistle that can signal for help over long distances.

The Signal is available in several variants:

• Standard Signal: The classic design with all essential features
• Signal Black: Same trusted functionality with a tactical black finish
• Signal Black Red: Features a red handle with black-coated tools
• Signal Topo: Includes a topographical map laser-etched onto the blade

Each Signal variant weighs approximately 212g and measures 11.43cm when closed, making it compact enough for everyday carry while robust enough for serious outdoor use. The carabiner clip lets you attach it securely to your belt or pack.

What impresses us most about the Signal is its thoughtful design for wilderness use. The hammer feature is perfect for securing tent stakes, while the awl with thread loop allows for emergency repairs to gear. The integrated bit drivers offer versatility for equipment maintenance, and the ferro rod can reliably create sparks in any weather condition.

Gerber Suspension: Engineering Excellence for the Outdoors

Inspired by the bridges of Portland, Oregon, the Gerber Suspension multi-plier offers remarkable structural integrity in a sleek, open-frame design. Don't let its elegant appearance fool you - this tool is built for serious use in demanding conditions.

The Suspension features spring-loaded pliers for reduced hand fatigue during extended use, along with Gerber's patented Saf.T.Plus component locking system that ensures each tool locks securely in place. At 8.9cm closed length and with a comfortable grip, it fits well in hand while providing access to essential tools, including wire cutters, fine and serrated edge knives, saw, scissors and various screwdrivers.

The newer Gerber Suspension NXT takes this classic design and evolves it for everyday carry. With 15 tools in a slim butterfly design, the NXT adds conveniences like a pocket clip for easy carrying. At 10.8cm closed and weighing 189g, it's optimised for the weekend warrior or commuter who needs reliable tools in a compact package.

Both Suspension models demonstrate Gerber's commitment to quality construction and thoughtful design, making them excellent companions for wilderness adventures.

Gerber Clip: The Perfect Suspension Companion

To complement your Gerber Suspension NXT, the Clip & Carry Gerber Suspension NXT Sheath provides secure storage and easy access to your multi-tool. Handcrafted in the USA by military veterans, these sheaths are constructed from high-quality Kydex with a carbon fibre finish in various colours.

What makes these sheaths stand out is their attention to detail and durability. With adjustable retention, you can customise how securely your tool is held, ensuring it stays in place during active movement but remains accessible when needed. Weighing just 50g, this sheath adds minimal bulk while providing maximum protection.

The manufacturer's lifetime guarantee speaks volumes about the quality of construction. For anyone serious about protecting their investment in quality tools, the Gerber Clip represents practical functionality and peace of mind.

Gerber Ultimate Survival Knife: Beyond Multi-Tool Functionality

Sometimes, wilderness survival requires more than what a traditional multi-tool can provide. The Gerber Ultimate Survival Knife addresses this need with a full-tang fixed blade design that combines multiple survival functions in one robust package.

This knife features a 25.4cm overall length with a utilitarian drop point blade that's partially serrated to handle many tasks. The textured rubber grip provides secure handling in all conditions, while the steel hammer pommel can be used for emergencies.

What truly makes this knife ‘ultimate’ is its integrated survival features. The sheath houses a sharpener and a ferrocerium rod for fire starting, while the knife includes a fire-striking edge along the spine and an emergency whistle. This combination of tools addresses the core needs of wilderness survival: cutting, shelter building, fire starting and signalling.

Weighing 320g and featuring a hollow grind with a stonewashed finish, this knife is designed to perform when it matters most. For situations where you need more substantial cutting power than a multi-tool can provide, the Gerber Ultimate Survival Knife is an excellent complement to your gear.

Victorinox: Swiss Precision for Wilderness Challenges

No discussion of outdoor multi-tools would be complete without mentioning Victorinox, the original Swiss Army knife manufacturer with a heritage dating back to 1884. These iconic multi-tool knives have earned their reputation through generations of reliable service in challenging conditions.

Victorinox multi-tool knives feature high-quality stainless steel blades with excellent sharpness, durability and corrosion resistance. Depending on the model, they include various tools such as screwdrivers, can and bottle openers, scissors, saws, files, tweezers and more.

What makes Victorinox especially valuable for wilderness adventures is the combination of precision engineering and thoughtful tool selection. Their multi-tools can assist with gear repairs, outdoor cooking, basic first aid, and shelter construction. The compact design means you always have essential tools available without carrying excess weight.

From simple everyday tasks to emergencies, Victorinox multi-tools offer Swiss precision when needed. Their legendary durability means these tools can be passed down through generations of outdoor adventures.

Why Heinnie Haynes is Your Trusted Source

At Heinnie Haynes, we pride ourselves on being the premium source for the hardest kit on the planet. Each of these multi-tools has earned its place in our inventory through rigorous assessment of quality, functionality and reliability. We understand that when you're in the wilderness, your gear needs to perform flawlessly.

Our customer service team consists of outdoor experts who use these tools and can provide personalised recommendations based on your needs. We stand behind every product we sell, ensuring you get the right tool for your adventures.

Remember that, in survival situations, your multi-tool might be the most important piece of equipment you carry. Choose wisely, prepare thoroughly and adventure confidently with quality gear from Heinnie Haynes.

Explore our full range of robust & tactical Multi-tools