A multitool is a must for anyone who spends time outdoors. Whether working, camping, hiking or recreating in other ways, the outdoors enthusiast who doesn't carry a multitool can soon be in a heap of trouble. Swiss Army pocketknives have several tools that come in handy, but noticeably missing are a set of pliers. Newer multitool products such as Leatherman and Gerber give you pliers and the other tools you may need.

Experts recommend a good multitool product for survival needs. Suppose you are lost in the desert. If you have canned food with you, the can opener is important. You may need the saw blade for cutting pieces of wood for a fire. You can use a serrated knife blade in all kinds of emergencies. The multitool also is excellent on the job. You can make quick adjustments with the screwdriver blades, and some people use the needle nose pliers and wire clippers almost daily.

1. Pick a quality Leatherman multitool at discount pricing.

2. A Gerber multitool is a great product at a reasonable price.

3. Check out several brands with a distributor you trust.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Try Leatherman if you are looking for a tried and true multitool product

Leatherman introduced the Pocket Survival Tool in 1983, and the multitool market is bursting at the seams because of it. Although several other companies now make a good multitool similar to that of Leatherman, others make cheap imitations that aren't worth investigating. With Leatherman, you know it's good. If you want to sell Leatherman products you should find a wholesale source from which to purchase products.

I recommend: Find wholesale multitool information at Moontrail. You can get discount Leatherman multitools at All Leatherman Tools 4 Less. For orders of 24 pieces or more than 80 pounds they provide even lower prices. You can see a comparison chart for various models of multitools at Leatherman Tool Group.

Consider a Gerber multitool

You can find what you need on a Gerber multitool list. Gerber products are similar in many ways to Leatherman tools. One of the main differences is that the pliers flick out easily with one hand. It is especially convenient when only one hand is free.

I recommend: One Gerber multitool provider is Two Point Enterprise located in Haughton, LA. The Knifecenter also offers a selection of Gerber multitools.

Locate an exceptional multitool provider to find multitool products

Some companies sell only the best products. Others sell anything they can get their hands on. Just because you find something cheap doesn't mean you found a bargain. Cheap imitations, especially some imported from Asian countries will not stand up to much use. Be safe and deal with companies you trust.

I recommend: You can find various makes of excellent multitool products at West Marine. Cabela's also offers a selection of multitools.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Outdoorsmen should keep their multitool with them at all times. Many put one in a holder on their belt and leave it there. If you are selling multitools in a retail store, consider adding accessories such as these holders to sell to your customers.