Backpacker's Multi-Pliers

The first is a sparking device. A ferrocerium bar, preferably flat like the other tool blades, would sit in a channel in one handle. On the other handle, one of the blades would have a coarse file on its edge. The blade would be passed through a hole in front of the ferrocerium, throwing out sparks. This device could be engaged when the handle were fully open, and would benefit from sprung pliers.

The second is the clamp end of an X-Acto woodcarving handle. It would be a bit bulky, but would make a nice extra. The woodcarving handle take an amazing assortment of bits, including various chisels and gouges, a mini keyhole saw, even a 6.5” mitre saw blade.

That’s the idea. The rest is a rant.

Most of the campers and backpackers I know have owned at least one multi tool. Enough, it seems, that companies like Leatherman and Gerber are targeting them, making smaller and lighter tools with outdoorsy bits in them. As nice as these are, it’s hard to find a saw, file, awl, and scissors for under a pound, but you still invariably end up with at least four screwdrivers… and a corkscrew, and two knife blades, and a can and bottle opener. I have never packed canned food, but if I did I doubt the extra weight of a real can opener would put me off.

I would like to see a pair of backpacking pliers which contains only things of reasonable utility: The aforementioned saw, file, scissors, and awl – preferably an awl with more than a passing resemblance to a marlinspike. Fisherman’s style needle nose pliers. Wire cutters and crimp. A reamer. Possibly some sort of chisel or gouge. Even a pick; Gerber made a tool with a hoof pick, which looked fairly versatile.

While we’re here, I’ll mention the usual niceties; locking tool, removable tools, one-handed opening, a ruler, a lanyard hole, sprung handles, tools that open out when the handles are closed, and handles that are smooth when using the pliers. I think Gerber also had a device that accepted jigsaw blades, but I’m sure it’s patented. I’m pretty comfortable with what I’m asking here; none of it is out of the ordinary, except perhaps for the marlinspike.