Maverick Sergeant First Class William James (Jeremy Renner), U.S. Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team leader, preps his EDC multitool before disarming a gruesome bomb in Kathryn Bigelow’s pulse-pounding 2008 thriller, The Hurt Locker .
Maverick Sergeant First Class William James (Jeremy Renner), U.S. Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team leader, preps his EDC multitool before disarming a gruesome bomb in Kathryn Bigelow’s pulse-pounding 2008 thriller, THE MULTITOOL: AN INTRODUCTION
Unlike many of the EDC items we highlight via The Dispatch, the multitool doesn’t come complete with a rich history that spans vast oceans of time. The individual tools within a multitool may, but as a complete package, the multitool itself does not. That being said, the multitool has become quite the hot ticket over the last few decades as EDC enthusiasts get a whiff of what a swiss army knife might be like if it got jacked.
Remember those giant cell phones people used to carry around in the 80’s? Think of toolboxes as those phones and today’s multitools as the equivalent of your cell today. In other words, think of a multitool as a mini toolbox that you can fit in the palm of your hand. You can practically feel the weight disappearing, can’t you? Adios, chunk!
“I’m making a res at Dorsia.”
That’s what is so fantastic about your modern multitool. It goes where that ol’ toolbox passed down from your grandpappy can’t – YOUR POCKET!
With multitools, convenience is the name of the game. A boatload of your every day carry necessities in one easy-to-access location.
Us Gallantry men have lives to lead. Even if we did have the time to maintain each and every individual tchotchke that we could find just as easily fused into one multitool, why would we want to? We wouldn’t. With the multitool, we save money, time, and energy, all while being able to switch up from one tool to another in mere milliseconds. Plus, no more worrying about losing an individual piece. With that sense of security comes peace of mind and you can’t put a price on that.
So, without further adieu, let’s get to it.
Academy-Award winning Director of The Hurt Locker, Kathryn Bigelow, is definitely a chick that likes her EDC.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF MULTITOOLS?
There are a lot of models and variations of multitool out there today and they’re as light, compact, and stylish as they’ve ever been. Some are designed for specific trades (i.e. carpentry). Some are designed for quick one-handed blade flip-outs that just straight-up look badass. Whatever your individual needs are, there’s a multitool with purpose and utility for you.
The three main categories of multitool are as follows…
TYPE #1: REGULAR/FULL-SIZED MULTITOOLS
Fully-featured and containing the widest array of instruments, this type of multitool is the most functional of the three. Perfect for the outdoors, DIY Gallantry Man, these tools usually come equipped with more than ten widgets (which is why they also tend to cost more and weigh more than the other types).
TYPE #2: MINI MULTITOOL
The “mini” in the category name is literal in this case, so expect these to be smaller than your regular, full-sized multitools. While they may contain less one-off tools, they are also more affordable and easier to carry. Life is all about trade-offs!
TYPE #3: KEYCHAIN MULTITOOL
The baby of the bunch. With a slick minimalist design, these multitools have got the goods when it comes to tasks involving prying, popping bottle caps, stripping wire, and, of course, undoing tiny screws.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT MULTITOOL FOR YOU
Pierce (Boyd Holbrook), leader of the militant Reavers group, whips out his go-to EDC multitool to fix his mechanical hand in James Mangold’s Logan (2017).
Pierce (Boyd Holbrook), leader of the militant Reavers group, whips out his go-to EDC multitool to fix his mechanical hand in James Mangold’s You want everyday carry that is comfortable and stylish. We get it. We do, too. It’s basic human psychology. If you like how your EDC looks and feels, you’re more likely to, you know, carry it every day. Go figure!
Meanwhile, there are lot of other factors to keep in mind (occupation, lifestyle, environment) as you prepare to make your first (or second, third, fourth, etc.) multitool purchase. Quick access to specific tools, a strong defense against the unknown elements, and overall portability – all these things matter. So do the following items of business…
SIZE AND WEIGHT
Consider what activities you’re most likely to engage in with your new EDC multitool. If you’re a hunter or a hiker constantly in motion, you might want to opt for a smaller, lighter multitool. If you’re more likely to stay put, a larger, heavier tool capable of even the most heavy-duty tasks might be you’re best move.
THE TOOLS
You know best what individual tools you’re most likely to need in a pinch. Sturdy pliers, a saw, a screwdriver, a bottle opener (maybe even a cork-sealed bottle opener), a can opener, a knife, scissors, scrapers, crimpers, rulers, nail files, tweezers, eating utensils, measuring tape, you name it. Some multitools even have cool features like wire cutters and/or strippers, diamond files, jewelry drivers, awls, and interchangeability options.
FUNCTIONALITY
Multitools come in different varieties for a reason. Each owner is different. If you’re a contractor who spends a lot of time on job sites, a multitool with a great plier and a nice screwdriver collection has your name on it. If you’re a camper, a multitool with a good serrated knife is a safe bet for when you’re looking to cut up grub around the campfire. If you like to fish, look for a multitool with an efficient straight knife so that you can disembowel that fresh catch like the champ you are. If you’re an office guy, the keychain multitool is likely to meet all your needs.
WARRANTY
Depending on how much you’re investing in your new multitool, you may want to read the fine print from the manufacturer as it pertains to the assurance provided. A good limited warranty ensures you that you’re investing in a product that is both well-designed and durable.
USAGE
Emergencies aside, you know best how often you’re likely to have to use your multitool. If you’re a real DIY repair type who requires what’s packed in a multitool on the regular, hey, it might not be the worst thing in the world to splurge on a full-size. If your multitool is likely to spend most of its time on your desk, maybe you spend less (and spend what’s leftover on adding another knockout piece of EDC to your ever-growing arsenal). Then again, maybe not. It’s a free country! One man’s overkill is just too tame for another (and vice versa). That’s one of the best parts of EDC culture – it’s always to each their own!
FREQUENT FLYING
Consider how often you travel. If you’re constantly zigzagging around from one place to the next in the friendly skies (and like always bringing your EDC with you), keep in mind that TSA does prohibit certain kinds (not all, many mini multitools are TSA-approved) of regular sized multitools from getting past the security line.
BLADE
In many ways, a multitool is a book that you can largely judge by its cover. With the multitool specifically, that cover is the knife (you want a good one).
Keep an eye out for the hardness of the blade’s steel (it determines how long the blade will retain its sharpness before needing a tune-up). A little flex isn’t the worst thing in the world, as it allows you to apply increased force without hearing (and seeing) that unfortunate snap. Good stainless steel is strong, durable, but not overly rigid.
Lastly, if self-defense is a priority for you, make sure your multitool has a blade that extends longer than two inches.
*As an aside, we recommend not viewing a multitool as an EDC pocket blade substitute. Think of having a multitool as having an additional form of insurance on your normal everyday carry pocket blade…and then some!
CARRY OPTIONS
Having a quality carrying case with a belt loop for your multitool is money. Pair it a nice little solid enclosure bit and you’re golden. Meanwhile, a good belt clip that provides easy storage without the bulge is also a classy option. Lastly, if you know you’re in the market for a smaller keychain multitool, a connected lanyard or string is often included to help prevent loss.
BUDGET
One of the best aspects of a multitool is that no matter what your price point, you know you’re going to save some cash. After all, you’re investing in one premium item, not a bunch of a la carte knick knacks. As a general rule of thumb, the more individual items a multitool contains, the higher the price.
Whether you’re tired of digging through junk drawers for that tool you need or just want to add a cool, new stylish piece of EDC to your impressive and growing collection, Gallantry, as always, has you covered.
It’s time to toss the possibility of frustration into the dustbin of history (along with the rest of your crappy old tools that you will no longer need once you are in possession of your awesome new EDC multitool).
You’re ready to make a move. Perfect. Time for some real fun as we dive into some multitools we’re currently offering at Gallantry, each one in a class of their own.
THE 10-IN-1 TITANIUM POCKET TOOL FROM BIG IDEA DESIGN
There are a lot of comprehensive multitools out there, but few are as pocket-friendly and loaded with tools as the TPT. Featuring an aerospace grade 5 6AL4V titanium frame with a steel insert, this minimalist pocket tool might just be the most capable for its size. That's in large part thanks to it having more than 10 built-in tools - including a bottle opener, dual flathead screwdrivers, an internal magnet, a 1/4-inch hex bit opening, measurement cues, a mini pry bar and scraper, and 15 different socket sizes (both metric and imperial).
If you want an incredibly useful and durable tool that takes up the smallest amount of space, say hello to our little friend.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Aerospace Grade 5 6AL4V titanium frame
- 420 stainless steel insert
- 550 paracord lanyard
- Leather sheath included
- 10+ built-in tools including: bottle opener, 2 flathead screwdrivers, internal magnet, 1/4" hex bit opening, measurement cues, mini pry bar, scraper, and 15 socket sizes.
- Universal Wrench Design (15 Socket Sizes)
- SAE 15/64, 1/4, 17/64, 9/32, 5/16, 11/32, 3/8, 7/16 in.
- TSA Compliant
- Metric 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 mm
- 3" L x 1" H x 0.157" D
- 0.9 oz weight
10-in-1 Titanium Pocket Tool
$65.00
[tab-section data-sc-active-background="#ffffff" data-sc-other-background="#ffffff" data-sc-color="#555555"][tab title="Details"] There are a lot of comprehensive multitools out there, but few are as pocket-friendly and loaded with tools as the TPT. Featuring an aerospace grade 5 6AL4V titanium frame with a steel insert, this minimalist… read more
THE 10-IN-1 TITANIUM POCKET TOOL SLIDE FROM BIG IDEA DESIGN
If the TPT from Big Idea Design isn’t compact, versatile, and hardwearing enough of a multitool for you, the new and improved TPT Slide might just be what you’re looking for.
Designed with an Aerospace Grade 5 6AL4V titanium frame, the Slide is machined from plates that are 25% thicker than the outgoing model’s. Furthermore, a new, one-handed, ambidextrous, secure sliding mechanism with dual lockout points has also been introduced for even more additional convenience. The universal wrench — which offers 15 different socket sizes – has been made stronger as well, and the TPT Slide has been given a new removable pocket clip that is attached to the tool without any screws.
Still not sold? The upgraded version of the massively popular titanium pocket tool still boasts two flathead screwdrivers, a bottle opener, internal magnet, 1/4” hex bit opening, measurement cues, mini pry bar/scraper, natural or black-anodized stainless steel blade, camping fork, and lanyard hole (along with 550 paracord), and even comes encased in a leather sheath.
Weighing in at just 1oz and measuring at just 3” long, the TPT Slide is proof that good things still come in small packages.
- Aerospace Grade 5 6AL4V titanium frame
- Matte black finish
- Now machined from 25% thicker titanium plates than the TPT
- 420 stainless steel insert
- New, one-handed, ambidextrous, secure sliding mechanism with dual lockout points
- New, unique removable pocket clip, adjoined without using screws
- 550 paracord lanyard and leather sheath included
- 10+ built-in tools including: bottle opener, 2 flathead screwdrivers, internal magnet, 1/4" hex bit opening, measurement cues, mini pry bar, scraper, and 15 socket sizes.
- Improved, stronger universal Wrench Design (15 Socket Sizes)
- SAE 15/64, 1/4, 17/64, 9/32, 5/16, 11/32, 3/8, 7/16 in.
- Metric 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 mm
- TSA Compliant
- 3" L x 1" H x 0.38" D w/ clip (0.20" D w/o clip)
- 1oz weight
10-in-1 Titanium Pocket Tool Slide
$80.00
[tab-section data-sc-active-background="#ffffff" data-sc-other-background="#ffffff" data-sc-color="#555555"][tab title="Details"] Big Idea Design's Titanium Pocket Tool (TPT for short) was already one of the most compact, versatile, and hard-wearing multi-tools on the market, though the ten-in-one tool has been taken to the next level with… read more
THE WRENCHIT MULTI-TOOL FROM MININCH
Multi-drivers are a dime a dozen - but when it comes to wrenches, there's not much in the way of portability and versatility. And that's what makes Mininch's WRENCHit, brand new at Gallantry, such a handy tool for DIYers, handymen, mechanics, and cyclists alike.
This all-metal pocket tool features 10 interchangeable wrenches (with 15 functions total), so you can tighten or loosen any bolts on-the-fly without having to carry around a heavy tool roll. Plus, as an added benefit, this handy device also comes with a bottle opener.
- All-metal construction
- 10 interchangeable wrenches
- 15 total functions
- 6mm box-end wrench with built-in 3.2, 3.4, 3.5 mm spoke wrenches
- Other box-end wrenches: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 mm
- Wing-nut wrench with built-in Shimano 4.3 and 4.4 mm spoke wrenches
- Bottle opener
- Included carry pouch
- 2.2 oz weight
- 6" L x 1" W
Available in Silver
WRENCHit Multi-Tool
$55.00
[tab-section data-sc-active-background="#ffffff" data-sc-other-background="#ffffff" data-sc-color="#555555"][tab title="Details"] Multi-drivers are a dime a dozen - but when it comes to wrenches, there's not much in the way of portability and versatility. And that's what makes Mininch's WRENCHit such a handy tool for DIYers,… read more
THE TOOL PEN FROM MININCH
The multi-bit screwdriver was invented to incorporate the versatility of a comprehensive driver set into the convenient size of a single tool. The Mininch Tool Pen takes that concept a step further and puts the capability of a multi-bit driver in a slim package that can fit in your pocket. With 16 included bits of various sizes and a capacity to hold 6 at a time, you can take your driver set on-the-go, wherever you may be headed. Boom.
SPECIFICATIONS
- 6061 aluminum construction
- SAE 8660 steel bits
- Sand-blasted finish
- Slotted bits: SL3, SL4, Sl4.5
- Phillips bits: PH1, PH2
- Imperial hex bits set: H5/64, H3/32, H1/8, H5/32
- Star bits: T10, T15, T20, T25
- Robertson / Square Bit: S1, S2, S3
- 2012 Red Dot Design Award Winner
- 5.9" L x 0.69" D
- 93g with 6 bits
Available in Black
Tool Pen
$72.00
[tab-section data-sc-active-background="#ffffff" data-sc-other-background="#ffffff" data-sc-color="#555555"][tab title="Details"] The multi-bit screwdriver was invented to incorporate the versatility of a comprehensive driver set into the convenient size of a single tool. The Mininch Tool Pen takes that concept a step further and puts the… read more
THE SUSPENSION & PARAFRAME COMBO FROM GERBER
Always be prepared, by having an extremely versatile multitool and a tough utility knife ready in a pinch. This combo from Gerber offers a Suspension tool which includes Needlenose pliers l Pliers l Wire cutter l Scissors l Flat head screwdriver l Ruler l File l Awl l Wire stripper l Large screwdriver l Bottle opener l Can opener l Small screwdriver l Serrated blade l Hex/Bit driver. It also includes a Paraframe framelock knife with a 3" clip point blade, bead blasted finish stainless blade and handle. Throw this in your car so you're ready for anything on the go.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Includes the Suspension multitool and the Paraframe knife from Gerber
- Suspension multitool includes: Needlenose pliers l Pliers l Wire cutter l Scissors l Flat head screwdriver l Ruler l File l Awl l Wire stripper l Large screwdriver l Bottle opener l Can opener l Small screwdriver l Serrated blade l Hex/Bit driver.
- Paraframe knife: 4.13" closed framelock with 3" clip point blade
- Bead blasted finish stainless blade and handle
- Thumb stud and pocket clip.
- Stainless steel
Available in Stainless Steel
MULTITOOL MAINTENANCE
Like any good EDC item worth its salt, a little upkeep here and there goes a long way. A nice wooden skewer (chicken satay, anyone?) or even a dust blower can help you quickly get rid of dirt, sand, and lint from your multitool, in turn keeping it nice, smooth, and sleek as the day you got it in the mail.
Want to real keep your new multitool operating like a fine-tuned vessel? Toss a little grease on its moving joints every now and then. Not only will this help keep your EDC in tip-top shape, but it will also help prevent rust from incurring.
As for those occasion when you’re new multitool is not on your person? Glove boxes and toolkits are two ideal spots for keeping your new gear clean and dry.
THE FINAL WORD ON YOUR NEW MULTITOOL
“Yeah, thanks. Took the restrictor plate off to give the red dragon a little more juice.”
“Yeah, Whether you’re gearing up for a Sunday in the garage (or the driveway) to unwind by getting after it with some basic repairs and home DIY projects or a month in the canyons to unplug, having the right EDC multitool at your disposal is the x-factor when it comes to being prepared. And, as you well know, being prepared is a core component of the Gallantry ethos.
Our Marine pals swear by these versatile gems and for good reason, too. The ingenuity of the multitool is unmatched; as it serves a wide array of wants and needs no matter where you are or how often you’re moving.
With your new handy multitool, you’ll be laughing with confidence as the universe decides what challenge to present you with next. Whatever it is, you can handle it. You are a problem solver. You are a Gallantry Man. And with your crisp new everyday carry multitool, you are most definitely a winner.
Say goodbye to not being ready to deal with annoying little tasks that pop up out of left field and say hello to being ready to deploy a multitool with superb quality, design, and functionality.
Life is unpredictable. Your EDC doesn’t have to be.
STREAMING THE EDC MULTI-TOOL
Parker (Jason Statham) uses a multitool to whip his piece into shape in Taylor Hackford’s action flick Parker (2013).
Parker (Jason Statham) uses a multitool to whip his piece into shape in Taylor Hackford’s action flick Parker (2013).We’re not going to lie, we’re big Statham fans here at Gallantry. To this end, we were pretty stoked when we saw Parker for the first time back in 2013, as Statham’s thief with honor character uses an EDC multitool twice in the flick.
Once to jumpstart a stolen car…
Once to jumpstart a stolen car…
Then again to tighten his gun before a heist.
No wonder Leslie (Jennifer Lopez) wants a piece of Parker’s action!
No wonder Leslie (Jennifer Lopez) wants a piece of Parker’s action!“I warned you not to touch my Gallantry EDC.”
“I warned you not to touch my Gallantry EDC.”So if you’re ready to watch Statham even the score with a former crew that made the foolish decision to double-cross him while he woos J.Lo with his incredible knowledge of everyday carry, go right ahead and stream Parker on Netflix tonight!
