multifunction tools

[Justin_NSA]

Which model multifunction tool is found to be most usefull around the boat? I have a good folding blade and marlin spike but I'm constantly digging in the tool bag for help. Do these wear out easily? I'd like to just carry one belt or pocket tool for odd jobs. Maybe take it to the BVI when we go this year.

 

[MrBill_FLL]

a basic leatherman or similar clone.
I really like the SOG version, since it has an advantage in the pliers part. but I would hate to loose it overboard..
I tie a line around the pliers part and attach to my belt loop...

https://www.amazon.com/SOG-PowerAss...4&sr=8-1&keywords=sog+power+assist+multi-tool

 

[Charlie Jones s/v Tehani]

I have carried the Leatherman Wave in my pocket for years now. . Had one break, store just handed me a new one

 

[Justin_NSA]

The Wave seems very popular. I found a list - never heard of most.
http://gearpatrol.com/2013/02/26/grip-n-go-5-best-multi-tools/

 

[Gunni]

My rule for a boat tool is it has to have a knife with a serrated blade that opens with one hand, and it has to have a marlin spike, and it has to provision a lanyard. In fact, the knife I sheath on my PFD is a gerber river shorty because it is a water knife that come out ready for action. You can't be prying a blade out of some gizmo when you are dragging on a tether. Here is a premium boat tool:

 

[Anonymous 121765]

Justin,

Just when you think you have all the tools, another project rears its ugly head & you find yourself, one size off and/or not enough.

An old sea salt told me years ago that if you want all the tools needed on your boat, you first get two toolboxes.
You put all your tools in one toolbox. As you use a tool, you put that in the empty toolbox. On-n-on this goes until, you no longer go to the original toolbox any longer. The now filled toolbox with all the tools is the one to keep onboard.

It took 2 years for me but, he was right. Just take the other tools & toolbox home.
Along the way with newly projects requiring new tools, just add them to the toolbox........on & on............

CR

 

[Justin_NSA]

Sage advice. I'll get organized someday

 

[Anonymous 121765]

J-Man,

There will be times that something new needs to be fixed that may require a tool that you do not have aboard. Such is a boater's life.

So you get the needed tool, fix the problem then ask yourself, "Will I again need this while underway or, is it a dockside project tool? If the answer is yes or maybe, put it in your "boat toolbox."

I have a C30 & keep my toolbox under the chart table on a shelf above the batteries which is not a big area for tool storage. Along with this, I have a cheapo 70 piece socket wrench set. Twenty years ago, I bought two "Metrinch" socket sets. A fitting spans both US & Metric sizes hence, only half the fittings required.

The advantages are that they will loosen bolts when the normal hex-points are stripped. It does not rely on the points of the bolt head but rather, it tightens down on the flat sides. I keep one set on the boat & one at home. I don't know if they even make them anymore. A very well made tool both by design & material. I keep them shiny like jewelry.

CR

 

[sailnewbie]

Gerber multi tool, blades super sharp and durable, pliers super strong along with the screw drivers and about 10 other things on it

 

[rbringle]

Leatherman Wave!!!! I've tried knockoffs and they are inferior functionally (some of them you have to open to get to the knife) and durability (they rust). I had a rigger working on our sailboat. I asked him about his Leatherman and he said he uses it for 90% of his tasks. Expensive, but worth it. I once bought two knockoffs on sale for the price of one Leatherman and I regretted it.

 

[Charlie Jones s/v Tehani]

Leatherman Wave!!!! I've tried knockoffs and they are inferior functionally (some of them you have to open to get to the knife) and durability (they rust). I had a rigger working on our sailboat. I asked him about his Leatherman and he said he uses it for 90% of his tasks. Expensive, but worth it. I once bought two knockoffs on sale for the price of one Leatherman and I regretted it.

And as I said- break it, they replace it. 25v year warranty.

 

[sailnewbie]

Leatherman vrs Gerber is like craftsman vrs snapon or gerber, yes they work but if you buy one you'll never buy another or buy one break it at the worst time and carry it in and exchange, hopefully!

 

[kappykaplan]

I have a Leatherman Charge. Great tool.

 

[NotCook]

(they rust)

You bring up a good point - how do you guys keep your tools from rusting, especially in the saltwater environment?

 

[All U Get]

If you can't fix it with a hammer, then it's electric.

All U Get

 

[Captn Scotty]

"Vise Grips" The only tool that works for every thing and destroys everthing at the same time!

 

[BlowMeAway]

Below deck I have a full tool set, on deck I have two pocket tools for the most important needs that a captain and crew might need.

 

[Justin_NSA]

I did quite a bit of research recently. I think I'm going with the Leatherman Charge Al. The Wave is highly rated but the Charge has a few more useful tools that might come in handy.
Meantime my toolbag will get a serious inventory.

 

[SFS]

You can fix anything in the world with a hammer and a pair of pliers.







Unless it's been fixed with a hammer and a pair of pliers before.






In which case you're gonna need duct tape.

 

[agprice22]

I carry a Gerber folding, serrated, 3" knife and a West Marine Multitool. I use em both, often. No complaints.