Unearth The Voyage
Hiking adventures demand gear that’s both functional and featherlight. A quality multi-tool under 200 grams can be your trusty companion for everything from emergency repairs to meal prep on the trail. These eight ultralight options pack impressive utility without weighing down your pack, helping you stay prepared without sacrificing precious ounces on your next wilderness journey.
Leatherman Micra: Scissors That Mean Business
Unlike most mini multi-tools where scissors feel like an afterthought, the 62-gram Micra makes them the star of the show. When opened, the spring-loaded scissors reveal themselves as full-sized and remarkably capable for their weight class.
The 10 additional tools hide within the butterfly-style handles, including knife blades sharp enough for food prep and various screwdrivers for gear maintenance. Frequent hikers appreciate the sturdy tweezers that actually grip what they’re meant to remove.
The keychain hole makes it easy to attach to pack straps for quick access.
Gerber Dime: Compact Powerhouse
Don’t let the 62-gram weight fool you—the Dime delivers surprising capability in an ultralight package. The butterfly-opening design reveals needle-nose pliers that handle delicate tasks other mini-tools can’t manage.
Hikers particularly love the unique package opener that slices through stubborn freeze-dried meal pouches without spilling precious calories. The spring-loaded scissors cut cordage and moleskin with precision, while the bottle opener celebrates summit victories.
The Dime’s subtle pocket clip prevents it from sinking to the bottom of your pack’s hipbelt pocket.
Victorinox Swiss Army Classic SD: The Keychain Wonder
At a mere 21 grams, this tiny titan earns permanent residence on countless keychains worldwide. The Classic SD packs seven functions including scissors that snip through moleskin and bandages with surprising precision.
Despite its diminutive size, the blade handles everything from opening packages to emergency gear repairs. The nail file doubles as a screwdriver in a pinch, while the tweezers extract splinters that would otherwise torment your entire hike.
Perfect as both primary tool for ultralight enthusiasts and backup for those carrying heavier options.
Leatherman Skeletool CX: Minimalist Marvel
Carbon fiber handles help this sleek performer achieve its impressive 91-gram weight while maintaining full-sized pliers and a premium 154CM steel blade. The Skeletool strips away unnecessary tools, focusing instead on quality fundamentals that actually matter on the trail.
The integrated carabiner clip doubles as a bottle opener and attachment point, keeping the tool accessible on your belt loop or pack strap. The removable bit driver accepts standard bits, allowing you to customize your tool kit for specific adventures.
The blade opens with one hand—crucial when the other hand is occupied with a task.
SOG Snippet: The Scissor Specialist
Weighing just 54 grams, the Snippet centers its identity around robust scissors that outperform others twice its size. The spring-loaded design reduces hand fatigue during extended use—ideal when cutting multiple pieces of tape for blister prevention or gear repair.
The straight blade features a partially serrated edge, tackling different materials with equal efficiency. A bottle opener, small pry tool, and screwdrivers round out the everyday essentials without unnecessary bulk.
The flat profile slides into even the most cramped hipbelt pockets, making it practically forgettable until needed.
Victorinox Huntsman: Traditional Excellence
The iconic red multi-tool earns its trail cred by packing 15 functions into a surprisingly light 97-gram package. The wood saw—often missing from ultralight options—makes the Huntsman invaluable for emergency shelter building or campfire preparation.
Both large and small blades handle different cutting tasks with Swiss precision. The scissors, though small, manage everything from trimming moleskin to emergency clothing repairs. The corkscrew isn’t just for celebrations—experienced hikers use it to remove deeply embedded splinters.
The translucent scales let you confirm that tweezers and toothpick remain in place.
Gerber Armbar Drive: Modern Trail Companion
Breaking from traditional multi-tool design, the 88-gram Armbar Drive prioritizes one-handed operation—critical when you’re balancing on uneven terrain. The frame lock blade deploys quickly and locks securely, providing confidence during challenging cutting tasks.
The innovative scissors fold out separately rather than nesting inside, offering better leverage than most compact tools. The awl punches through tough materials for emergency repairs, while the pry bar removes stubborn tent stakes from rocky ground.
The magnetic bit driver accepts standard bits, allowing customization based on your specific gear’s fasteners.
