If you’ve ever seen the movie 127 Hours, you’ll understand the potential of a multi-tool. In the true story, Aron Ralston uses one to save his life.

My daily needs may never be as life-threatening as Ralston’s, but my Leatherman Charge TTI has been a handy sidekick for many years. From roadside repairs to popping tops off beers, the Charge TTI has all the features you could want for everyday carry. I could spend hours telling stories of when each of the 19 tools came in handy.

A key feature for the Charge TTI is that the exterior blades are one-hand operable and lock open. The main straight blade is made of S30V steel and maintains a sharp edge. The serrated blade is equipped with a cutting hook; the saw is able to cut down small branches; and a multi-surface file completes the roster of exterior tools.

The pliers are perfect for holding nuts in place while you’re working in tight spaces, like behind your motorcycle’s bodywork. As much as I use them, I’m surprised they aren’t marred up and the teeth aren’t worn down. I also cut and strip wires with the Charge, and it works like a charm every time.

On the inside of the multi-tool, you’ll find more tools that lock into place. Large lock-release buttons are easy to access and operate. Why are locking features so important, you ask? Imagine using a Phillips driver on a screw that needed a bit of downforce, when suddenly the driver folds in!

19 tools in the palm of your hand! The Leatherman Charge TTI is a powerful addition to any tool kit.

Internal tools include a flat edge which I use as a mini-pry bar; a can/bottle opener; spring-loaded scissors that are very sharp; and my favorite—the small and large bit drivers. The bits are held in place by spring clips and give an audible snap when they set into the driver. Bit sets are sold separately, but they’re worth the investment.

The Charge TTI is on the heavy side, but there are multiple ways to carry it. Leatherman includes a belt holster and offers options for a quick-release pocket clip or key ring. I’ve found that the Charge TTI is a little too heavy to carry freely in my pockets, so I use the belt holster. A buddy of mine pointed out a feature I didn't know existed for years - a retractable, steel loop hidden within the pivot points of the Charge. It can be used with the plastic clips you usually find in backpacks.

The Charge features aggressive jimping on the lock releases and built-in safeties to prevent tools from opening when they’re not supposed to. You can even tell which blade you’re opening in the dark by feeling the back sides of blades. The straight edge is smooth, and the serrated blade has ridge marks. All of the tools on the Charge TTI are replaceable, but I’ve never had to send a Leatherman back to the shop.

Leatherman Charge TTI Tool List:

• Needlenose Pliars
• Standard Pliars
• Hard-wire Cutters
• Wire Cutters
• Crimper
• Wire Stripper
• S30V Knife
• 420HC Serrated Knife
• Saw
• Spring-action Scissors
• Cutting Hook
• 8in | 19cm Ruler
• Can Opener
• Bottle Opener
• Wood/Metal File
• Diamond-coated File
• Large Bit Driver
• Small Bit Driver
• Medium Screwdriver

Leatherman has been around since the 1980s, and it’s well known that these are some of the best pocket tools money can buy. Today, they offer a full line of multi-tools of various sizes, features, and price ranges. The Charge TTI is currently one of their pricier options, but after years of extensive usage, this multi-tool has become a priceless necessity and a true companion. Don’t be concerned about putting it through harsh use either, since Leatherman multi-tools come with 25-year warranties. Is it the only tool you need to bring on your adventure ride? Of course not, but if I was stranded in the wilderness for 127 hours and could only have one accessory with me, it would be a Leatherman multi-tool. MSRP: $169.95 Leatherman.com

Where to Buy:

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