A Powerful Multi Tool

Coast MultiTool C5799CP LED Pocket Pliers

Because a knife is an essential item for hikers (one of The Essentials in the Hiking Lady Backpacking Checklist), I’ve been testing various knives to find some good lightweight, high quality options to use on the trail.

Coast Portland manufactures a range of knives, multi tools, and LEDs, including the popular multi tool, the Coast C5799CP LED Pocket Pliers. For the past couple of months I’ve been using this multi tool both on and off the trail. Wow does it have a lot of features!

Pros:

Loads of features! In addition to screwdrivers, knives, and the other standard items I have come to expect to find on multi tools, the Coast C5799 also includes a saw! The saw worked amazingly well on small branches, which is sure nice to have in the wilderness. Plus it includes an LED light, which is a rare find on a multi tool.
Includes molded sheath. While the extra weight of a sheath would likely be shunned by most hikers, when I’m using multi tool around the house it is super convenient to have the sheath to attach the multi tool to a belt or even protect it in my purse.

Cons:

Weight. This multi tool is on the heavy side for backpacking use, weighing in at 10.06 ounces. The durable kydex pouch that comes with the tool is convenient for wearing on a belt or protecting the tool from scratches, but it adds a little extra weight. It may prevent backpackers from taking it along and substituting it for a lightweight knife. For day hikes and everyday use, the weight isn’t an issue in my view, and the features outweigh (pun intended!) the extra weight!

Specs:

Included tools: LED light in handle, pliers, wire cutter, main knife blade, file blade with wire stripper, flathead screwdriver, awl, can opener with screwdriver tip, Philips screwdriver and wire stripper, saw blade, scissors.
Batteries required: 2 CR1220 to power the LED flashlight feature. (Included)
Length: 4 inches closed.
Weight: 10.06 ounces
Materials: Cutlery grade stainless steel; rubber handle inlays.
Price: MSRP $39.99.

A quick tip: the tools were a little tough to open at first, but a drop of oil at each hinge helps break it in, making the multi tool even friendlier.