Important Features for Outdoor Multi-Tools by Coast Portland
Which features should a multi-tool have? Backpackers and survivalists can debate this question ad nauseum, and for good reason. Today’s tools offer an incredible array of features. From scissors to fishing hook removers, accessories are wide ranging. What works for a backpacker may not be ideal for a fisherman, and what survivalists consider essential may not be important to the casual camper.
To clarify the situation, below a few multi-tool features generally considered important for any outdoor enthusiast.
Saw blade. A saw blade can come in handy in any number of situations, from cutting firewood to building traps and snares. In a few short moments, a saw blade can transform a knobby stick into the perfect walking aid.
Pliers. While in the wild, you can use pliers to pick up hot items, such as a singing teakettle. Pliers are also incredibly handy for removing splinters – just be sure you clean them or any other accessories before using them to provide first aid. Finally, pliers may be used to bend metal items (such as pack frames and tent poles) back into shape.
Wire cutters. If you plan on fishing often, your multi-tool should include wire cutters. Wire cutters may be used to remove hooks from fish – and from your fellow fishermen. Hikers and backpackers may also find wire cutters useful in certain wilderness first aid situations. For instance, if a person’s skin becomes trapped in a zipper, wire cutters can destroy the zipper and free the tender skin.
Scissors. A long-running debate among wilderness lovers is whether proper backpacking multi-tools should include scissors. Many survivalists believe scissors are unnecessary provided the tool already includes a knife blade. And because every ounce counts when you’re carrying a 60-pound pack over miles of uneven terrain, many claim that scissors just add dead weight. However, there are certain times when scissors are extremely handy. Detailed jobs, such as sewing tears in tents and clothing, are easier when you have a pair of scissors available. Finally, scissors may be used for cutting away hangnails, which can easily become infected if they are torn off while on the trail.
Flat-edge blade. No multi-tool is complete without a good, sharp knife blade. You’ll find yourself using this attachment for everything from preparing food to cutting cord to whittling wood.
Lanyard hole. A lanyard hole allows you to attach your tool to a cord, which you can then loop onto your pack. This will help you keep your multi-tool handy on the trail. If you’re the type of person who tends to lose items easily, a lanyard hole is an especially useful feature.
Screwdriver. If your gear is technically advanced, chances are it contains screws that will occasionally need tightening. The screwdriver attachment is also a good idea for hikers who wear glasses. If your glasses happen to come unscrewed on the trail, your screwdriver attachment will be a true godsend.
File. This is one attachment that most backpackers agree is not necessary in a multi-tool. A file is helpful for woodworking, but it just adds unnecessary weight to a back country tool.
Can/bottle opener. Imagine this: You finally reach your camping spot for the night, after six miles of grueling hiking, only to realize that you have no way to open that can of beans you brought along. Even worse, you can’t even crack open a cold one. It is hard to improvise a way to accomplish these tasks. Can and bottle opener features are beneficial for most multi-tool users.
Locking mechanisms. One thing to look for in a multi-tool is a secure locking mechanism. If your attachments can’t stay locked securely in place, they may suddenly close on a tender finger.
Toothpick. This is one feature most backpackers can do without. First, who wants to watch a companion picking at his or her teeth by firelight? Moreover, toothpicks found on multi-tools are generally not very clean; the inside of your multi-tool can easily pass on germs and cause gum infections if you’re not vigilant about toothpick cleanliness. On the other hand, a toothpick can be an invaluable poking tool for clearing clogged stoves.
From scissors to toothpicks, today’s multi-tools offer a cornucopia of features. Which ones you need will depend on which outdoor activities you prefer. In general, backpacking tools should amount to no more than five ounces in weight; any more than this, and you’ll feel like you’re lugging around a car battery with you on the trail.
About the Author
Whether you are going hunting or backpacking or fishing or are an outdoor survivalist, there are a few key multi-tool features that are important for all outdoor enthusiasts to have. To explore and learn more about a quality selection of multi-tools, visit the site for Coast Products at www.CoastPortland.com.
Ultralight Fishing Rod for backpacking Pt2
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Oasis DELUXE BACKPACK FISHING CHAIR w/ ROD HOLDER & BOTTLE HOLDER-5 YEARS WARRANTY-High Quality Product.. A BONUS FISHING KIT INCLUDED: (ONE FISHING KNIVE-FISHING GLOVES AND A SOLAR RECHARGEABLE LED MINI FLASHLIGHT) $69.99 Expanded Size: 34″ Height x 19″ Width x 17 1/2″ Depth Folded Size: 5″ Height x 23 1/2″ Width x 29″ Depth 4-Position Adjustable Reclining Feature. Convenient Carry Strap. Total Weight:11 Pounds…. |
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My Light – LED Task / Reading Clip Light – Pink $14.99 Reading in the dark has never been so much fun! This friendly, little LED clip light holds tight, shines bright and works like a charm. Perfect for curling up under the covers with your favorite read. Also great for travel – both for reading and as a multipurpose flashlight. A rugged design – this light clips to almost anything and stands up to it all – it’s even waterproof! *** Carabineer Latch L… |
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My Light – LED Task / Reading Clip Light – Blue $14.99 Seeing in the dark has never been so much fun! This friendly, little LED clip light holds tight, shines bright and works like a charm. The perfect little light for shining extra light on whatever you need. Also great for travel – both for reading and as a multipurpose flashlight. A rugged design – this light clips to almost anything and stands up to it all – it’s even waterproof! **** Carabineer L… |
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My Light Latch Light – Super Bright LED Task Light – Pink $14.99 Rugged and fun, this task light is ready to latch onto your gear and go! The sturdy, 2.75-inch long, all-aluminum carabineer easily snaps onto bags, backpacks, duffel bags, coats – any handy location – so the light is always in reach. 2 L.E.D.s are easily swiveled in the unique ball mount, keeping the light pointed precisely where most desired. The ball light is quickly unsnapped from and returned… |
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EARTH OUTDOOR ALUMINUM FOLDING FISHING BACKPACK CHAIR w/ CUP HOLDER AND FISHING POLE HOLDER, AND LARGE BACK COMPARTMENT $38.00 The ultimate “go-anywhere” fishing chair! You can now go fishing or go backpacking anywhere with this chair! With this extra comfortable, extra rugged Backpack Fishing Chair you can put it on your back, and just go anywhere, because it has padded carry straps, even if it’s a mile hike in! This will definitely make your next trip fishing much more enjoyable. And it comes with a Rod & Cup Holder! Ve… |
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The Original CAMP MASTER Ultra Light All Aluminum Camping Chair with Fishing Rod Holder, Cup Holder! $59.00 The “CAMP MASTER” Ultra Light All Aluminum Folding Camping Chair! Go Camping, Fishing, Hiking or Backpacking anywhere with our ULTRA LIGHT comfortable, reclining chair. As a result, we have built the LIGHTEST, STRONGEST Aluminum chair of its kind! Made with Black 600D Polyester Fabric, the Padded Carrying Straps and Lumbar Padded Support Bar is so user friendly. The three position reclining chair … |
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Unifold 3 position Aluminum Chair w/ Drink Holder / Fishing Pole Holder $54.90 This unique folding chair has patent pending 3 reclining positions and tension bar at the rear for enhanced comfort and stability when reclining. Two molded armrest stem glass holders & side storage/beverage pocket. Stem glass holders double as fishing pole holders. Its easy to open and close. The zippered carrying bag with shoulder straps allows easy transport and storage. Its powder coating fram… |
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Trailworthy Telescopic Rod and Reel Set $19.60 Fishing rod and reel set comes with a handy telescoping feature. Fishing set is a perfect gift for the whole family to enjoy . Fishing supplies include fishing rod with spinning reel. Outdoor equipment sports a telescopic rod that extends from 15 inches to approximately 6.2 feet in length (1.9 meters). Spinning reel and line are included . Features lightweight and comfortable foam grips . Design a… |
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Mini Pen Fishing Rod with Deluxe Spin Reel $39.99 …Most of us have been there. we unexpectedly encounter a great fishing opportunity only to find we don’t have a rod to fish with. These can often be the best times to fish, and not having a rod can be one of the most frustrating things ever. …That’s where this product comes in. |
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Okuma VS-605-20 Voyager Spinning Travel Kit $37.69 Okuma Voyager Travel Spinning Pack… just the thing for the trail! Great for travel, camping and backpacking! Take this handy Fishing Kit just about anywhere! Includes 5-Pc. 6′ graphite composite rod teamed-up with a spinning ball bearing reel. And when you’re done fishing, everything packs away in the soft-sided, space-saving carry case! Light, corrosion-resistant aluminum spool. Durable ceramic… |
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