Gerber Dime Multi-Tool

The Gerber Dime packs 12 functional tools into something barely bigger than your thumb. Needle-nose pliers, wire cutters, scissors, a fine-edge blade, a package opener, tweezers, a file, three screwdrivers, a bottle opener, and a lanyard ring. The spring-loaded pliers are surprisingly strong for their size. The scissors actually cut well (not always the case with micro multi-tools). The package opener with the hooked blade is the tool I use most — it opens boxes and packaging without risking damage to contents. At 2.2 oz, it rides on a keychain or in a coin pocket without being noticed. Under $25 for a genuinely useful daily carry tool. The butterfly opening mechanism is satisfying. For a go-everywhere backup tool, the Dime is hard to beat.