Tested: The Best TSA-Approved Multi-Tools for Hassle-Free Travel

While we can appreciate that the TSA is in place to ensure everyone can travel in safety and security, they can also be the bane of our existence — from an everyday carry perspective, that is. The reasoning for this is pretty straightforward: the TSA has a list of travel-banned gear that typically encompasses that which an EDC enthusiast might normally carry. And while the greater reason for this is respectable and desirable, it means bringing things like knives or your typical multi-tool is out of the question when flying.

Fortunately, there are quite a few eminent EDC brands and craftsmen who are keen to build pocket gear that meets the TSA’s fairly rigorous standards. And that’s excellent news for the rest of us, as it means there are airplane-ready options for most of the things we need — even tools used for cutting (not knives, per se, but things that have an edge sharp enough to cut through twine or tape). After extensively scouring this closely-regulated space, we’ve gotten out hands on the latest and greatest the segment has to offer for this hands-on review and tested guide to the best TSA-approved multi-tools for worry-free travel and globetrotting. 

Selection & Testing

In order to uncover the very best TSA-approved multi-tools on the market, we kicked off our search by first generating a shortlist of possible candidates, largely on the strength of each multi-tool’s design, material selection, price and value, and number of integrated tools and functions. On top of limiting our picks to models that meet the TSA’s stringent standards for carry-ons, we also opted to restrict our selections to multi-tools that lend themselves to travel, and are fairly compact and pocketable. Once we’d generated this shortlist, we proceeded to get hands-on with each model that we suspected may stand as one of the best TSA-friendly multi-tools on the market. 

Once we had each multi-tool in hand, we established a series of standardized tests that would reveal the actual real-world performance capabilities of each pick. This was achieved by testing each multi-tools suite of functions by performing tests such as hammering nails into a piece of wood and then using each multi-tool’s pry bar (when applicable) to remove said nail, and over tightening several flathead and Phillips screws, allowing us to use each multi-tool’s bit driver to remove them. Additionally, we also tried out the bottle opener on each multi-tool, and used their package openers whenever possible. Individual tests were also devised in order to test out multi-tools that had unique features or functions not found on the other models we tested. 

Additionally, our hands-on testing would also help reveal other vital information on areas that can only be gleaned using these products firsthand, such as each model’s overall ergonomics and grip, and every multi-tool’s overall craftsmanship and fit and finish. Once armed with the information from our hands-on review process, we were then able to narrow our initial shortlist down to a final selection of what we found to be the very best TSA-approved multi-tools that money can buy. 

TSA Regulations On Multi-Tools

When it comes to airline travel, the TSA has strict prohibitions on knives of any size, so you won’t be able to bring any multi-tools with blades in your carry-on or pockets. As for scissors, they are allowed but must be less than 4″ in length. As a rule of thumb, sharp-edged objects are what the TSA is looking out for, which is why the following options won’t have many of them.

*TSA rules are constantly changing, and ultimately it’s up to the judgement of the TSA agents during your travel

Victorinox Jetsetter

Best Budget Pick: Since the very first model appeared in 1897, Swiss Army Knives have become legendary pieces of kit, lauded and carried by everyone from outdoorsman to EDC enthusiasts to soldiers. And, with the addition of the blade-free Victorinox Jetsetter, you can now add travelers and globetrotters to that list as well. The Jetsetter is a keychain-sized multi-tool that comes loaded with over half-a-dozen tools and functions such as a bottle opener, bit driver, key ring, toothpick, scissors, tweezers, and a wire stripper — all of which come sandwiched between Victorinox’s iconic red Cellidor scales. 

Measuring 2.3” in length, the Victorinox Jetsetter is essentially a modified version of the Swiss brand’s iconic Classic SD model. While it shares the Classic SD’s material selection, dimensions, seven total functions, and even exact price, the TSA-friendly model sees the Classic SD’s main blade and nail file items jettisoned in favor of a bottle-opener and 2.5mm Phillips head driver combo that also sports a cleverly-integrated wire stripper. Just like with other Swiss Army Knives, the fold-out functions found on the Jetsetter sport a heavily-polished finish that gives the item a more elegant air compared to most pieces of EDC gear. And, though undeniably minimalistic, the Jetsetter’s functions really do come in handy, whether at home or abroad. 

Having previously carried a Swiss Army Knife as part of my everyday carry loadout for several years, I had a good idea of what to expect before I started testing the Jetsetter, though I still found quite a few aspects and elements that I was pleasantly surprised by. For example, on the regular Classic SD model, the blade and nail file both fold out from the same side of the SAK’s handle, meaning both tools have to be thin enough to fit. With the Jetsetter, this pair of functions has been replaced by a single combo item, making its nail nick opening much easier to use — even if you have really short finger nails. At less than $25, I also really appreciate the fact that you don’t really have to worry about ever losing this TSA-friendly multi-tool during your travels, as its $24 MSRP doesn’t really require a major financial investment — something that can’t be said for some of the more expensive TSA-approved multi-tools I tested like Big Idea Design’s Bit Bar II. Another minor highlight is that the Jetsetter can be personalized on the Victorinox site with a slew of scale color options and available custom lettering. And, while subjective, I really like how the Jetsetter maintains the classic appearance of a keychain SAK. The fit and finish on the thing is also pretty fantastic, especially considering its sub-$25 MSRP — though this is typical of Victorinox. 

As much as it has going for it, there were a few minor gripes I had when testing the Victorinox Jetsetter. Though there’s no denying that the inclusion of a toothpick and tweezers bring some functionality to the table, I nonetheless wish the Swiss brand had opted to replace these items with the LED light and ballpoint pen found in the similarly-sized Victorinox Signature Swiss Lite, as these just seem more useful for travel applications — and are functions that we know Victorinox has no problem integrating into a Swiss Army Knife. What’s more, at less than 2.0” in length, the Jetsetter is perfectly sized to be carried on a keychain — though very seldom do I find myself carrying my full keyring and keys with me at all times when traveling, which definitely takes away from this area to some extent. The tiny size of the Jetsetter’s scissors also limit their real-world use, though they can be used as a tiny blade in a pinch. 

Verdict: A modified version of the iconic Classic SD Swiss Army Knife, the Victorinox Jetsetter is a super compact and highly-pocketable multi-tool developed specifically for globetrotters and frequent flyers. For those that want a quality Swiss-made multi-tool that’s TSA-compliant, this seven-function SAK is just the ticket. 

Toor Knives Keychain Multi-Tool

Best Overall Pick: Made in America in small batches, the Toor Knives Keychain Multi-Tool is a compact yet thoroughly utilitarian item that offers ample utility in a decidedly compact package. Spanning 4.10” length, Toor’s Keychain Multi-Tool starts out as a block of steel billet that’s precision-machined into a mono-construction body with an integrated pry bar feature, bottle opener, and four wrench fitting sizes. A set of mini heavy-duty bands also accommodate a removable 4mm Phillips head bit towards the top of the tool while a lanyard or keychain hole has been drilled into its bottom end. Rather than opting for a cheaper stainless steel construction, Toor instead chose to go with more premium 1075 carbon steel — a material often used to craft survival knives, axes, machetes, and other outdoor tools due to its extreme toughness. Tipping the scales at just 1.5oz, this keychain multi-tool has been finished with a black oxide coating. 

The best way I can describe Toor’s Keychain Multi-Tool is simple yet effective — at least on the surface. Instead of trying to cram an enormous number of functions into a small package, the San Diego brand went with a more spartan design that only integrates a handful of tools, though each one is genuinely useful, easy to access, and easy to use. On top of the premium construction, this multi-tool is also designed and manufactured entirely by Toor, entirely in-house. While you can see this item’s obvious utility just from looking at it, it isn’t until extensively using the thing that it becomes abundantly clear just how calculated of a design this thing really is. For starters, I really appreciate how well the front of the pry tool is able to double as a flat head driver. What’s more, I also found the shape of the pry tool to serve as an effective package-opening tool. Placing the bit opening at the very end of the tool also allows the user to maximize leverage when loosening or tightening hardware or screws — a stellar design decision as it allows the tool to offer an astonishing amount of leverage despite its roughly 4-inch size. Likewise, the same goes for the placement of the pry tool, at the end end of the multi-tool. 

I was also pleasantly surprised by how the upper rubber band that holds the Phillips head bit in place can be left in place on the rear-face of the tool, keeping said bit firmly locked in. This allows you to hold it at any angle without the bit falling out, plus applies pressure from behind the bit so it doesn’t just fall through the bit holder. Despite its roughly 4-inch length, the Toor Knives Keychain Multi-Tool actually fits really well in the hand, allowing it to lend itself to actual hard-use — unlike most keychain-style multi-tools. I also love that Toor opted for a Swiss-made Phillips head bit from PB Tools. Though subtle, I also really appreciate the tiny Toor Knives skull logo that’s been machined into body — a detail from the boutique brand’s handmade knives that’s been carried over to this multi-tool. When I first got my hands on this multi-tool, I was worried that it may be super easy to lose the item’s included rubber bands, though its design actually allows you to slide them up in order to access the Phillips head bit, without ever removing them from the multi-tool. Additionally, I was also initially concerned with how the rubber bands could snap, though after extensive use, it’s become increasingly clear just how robust these little items are. And, even after following extensive testing, they didn’t show any signs of weakening or loosing elasticity. Considering its materials and the fact it was made in America, this multi-tool also affords pretty stellar value, as well. 

As impressive as it is as a whole, I did come across a few issues with the Toor Keychain Multi-Tool during my testing. This includes the way the Phillips head is oriented, which required my hand to be extremely close to whatever hardware the tool is tightening — something that’s fine the vast majority of the time though becomes problematic when dealing with tighter, more awkward spaces. The opening for the Phillips head seems a bit larger than necessary. While this makes it super easy to slide the bit into place, it also results in a little bit of wobble/play when using the thing. I wouldn’t normally complain about this, though Toor is synonymous with ridiculously meticulous craftsmanship and manufacturing, so I was a little surprised to see them produce an element with not-so-tight tolerances — granted not one of much importance, plus at just $35, it’s tough to complain here. I was also a little surprised to see some rust starting to form on the multi-tool’s construction. While I actually think the mild pitting gives the tool a unique, patinated appearance, I still understand how some might not appreciate this. Another minor downside to Toor’s multi-tool is the fact that you can lose its Phillips head bit. With that said, the multi-tool uses a standard-sized bit, so even if you do misplace it, you can easily replace it with a cheap and widely-available 4mm Phillips bit. What’s more, if you happen to regularly use a less common type of bit — such as a Torx bit for adjusting pocket knives — Toor’s multi-tool affords the option of swapping out its included Phillips head bit for any other 4mm bit. 

Verdict: The Toor Knives Keychain Multi-Tool is an American-made, five-function item that makes a terrific addition to any EDC loadout — whether used at home or abroad. With its suite of functions, ample grip, and rugged 1075 construction, this beautifully-machined multi-tool offers an ideal balance of utility and value. 

The James Brand Halifax

Best Minimalist Pick: The James Brand Halifax is a tiny TSA-approved keychain multi-tool with a simple yet clever design. Spanning less than 3.0” and weighing less than half-an-ounce, the Halifax consists of a 0.125-inch-thick slab of billet that’s machined into shape before being fitted with a bottle opener insert. Not unlike a great many of TJB’s knives, the Halifax’s fashion-forward design has been brought to life using a decidedly premium material selection, with the main body precision-milled from grade 5 titanium while its bottle opener is crafted from 416 stainless steel — both of which are constructions often used to make the cases of high-end watches. This hardwearing and high-end construction has been fortified using a black Cerakote finish as well. 

Equipped with a drilled out loop section that bolsters grip while also serving as an attachment point for a lanyard or keychain, the Halifax culminates in a four-sided tip that allows it to act as a pry tool and bit driver — on top of also being a bottle opener. Not only did my testing reveal this trio of tools to actually be useful and effective, but the tip of the tool also had no problem doubling as a package opening, plus was also perfect for opening cans of paint. At less than 3.0” in length, the tiny size of the Halifax does limit grip and ergonomics to some extent, though this was very seldom an issue when I tested the thing — save for attempting hard-use tasks, which clearly isn’t what the Halifax was designed for.

Just like with any product from the house of James, the Halifax was penned to seamlessly blend form and function, putting a fashion-forward spin on traditional bottle opener designs. And, rather than merely being a design exercise, the Halifax is able to punch well above its weight, arming its carrier with a suite of functions in a super compact — and super sleek — package. I was also really impressed by how well the keychain multi-tool’s Cerakote finish protected its underlying grade 5 titanium construction, as even after extensive use as a bit driver, pry tool, and scraper, the finish showed literally zero signs of wear and never exposed the material underneath. I also applaud TJB for the use of the harder steel for the bottle opener insert, rather than seeing a titanium piece slowly get mangled over time. The grooved depressions in the tool’s main body also do a pretty terrific job of bolstering grip, despite being a very minor detail. While somewhat insignificant, this element no doubt speaks volumes about just how much thought went into the Halifax’s design. 

Some of the Halifax’s biggest selling points are unquestionably its tiny size and incredible simplicity. With that said, these areas can also be a bit of a double-edged sword, as they also limit the tool’s utility. In short, it just doesn’t offer as much functionality as practically every other multi-tool on this list — with even Victorinox’s slightly smaller Jetsetter Swiss Army Knife affording several more functions than the TJB item. It’s also worth noting that while the fit and finish of this item is admittedly pretty great, this item is made in China — and while you’d never know it from the overall craftsmanship and build quality the Halifax displays, its manufacturing origin does become a sticking point in my eyes when you consider its roughly $50 MSRP. At the end of the day, I had a hard time finding any major gripes or complaints with The James Brand’s Halifax, as its only real shortcomings are a result of it being super small, minimalistic, and pocketable — save for the Chinese manufacturing and semi-steep price. 

Verdict: Punching well above its weight, The James Brand Halifax is an insanely pocketable keychain tool that boasts a grade 5 titanium body with a trio of integrated functions. Anyone looking for a super compact multi-tool that still offers basic functionality for day-to-day use, should definitely consider TJB’s Halifax multi-tool. 

Gerber Multi-Plier 600 Bladeless

Most Utilitarian Pick: The Gerber Multi-Plier 600 Bladeless — or “MP600 Bladeless” — is a unique TSA-approved blade-free version of the best-selling multi-tool platform used by the U.S. military. Weighing in at 9oz, this full-size, full-function multi-tool is made in America and has been engineered from the ground up to be as utilitarian as possible, while still adhering to the “no knife policy” often employed by schools, hospitals, and of course, airlines. Sporting a length of only 5.10” (when closed), the Multi-Plier 600 Bladeless features a suite of over a dozen tools and functions including multiple flathead and Phillips driver sizes, bottle and can openers, a file, wire cutter and stripper, scissors, a ruler, and needle nose pliers — all of which are fully locking and can be opened or close with just one hand (save for the pliers).  

Though it looks like a traditional Leatherman-style butterfly-opening multi-tool, Gerber’s MP600 Bladeless employs a idiosyncratic opening setup where a pair of buttons on either side of the tool can be pushed in, allowing its needle nose pliers to slide up and lock into position. This setup also keeps the entire thing locked, preventing the two halves from opening up until the pliers are fully slid up. Rather than equipping this version of the MP600 with a regular or serrated blade, Gerber has opted to bestow this Bladeless-spec variant with a removable and replaceable carbide-grit jigsaw blade. Idiosyncratic opening setup aside. This full-size multi-tool feels great in the hand, and is large enough to afford the grip needed for even hard-use tasks. This TSA-approved multi-tool also ships with an included nylon carrying case with a belt-loop attachment. 

As far as outright utility goes, the MP600 Bladeless is pretty unbeatable, as it really does cram an entire toolboxes worth of functions into a pocketable — and more importantly for the sake of this list; TSA-approved — package. On top of its impressive levels of functionality, I also hugely appreciate the fact that its scissors can double as a small blade — plus are still TSA-friendly at less than 4.0”. I do wish Gerber had chosen to swap out the carbide-grit jigsaw blade for something a little more useful or practical in day-to-day life. Having said that, I do like that said item is removable, and can theoretically be replaced with an actual blade thanks to its standard sizing. Speaking of which, removable the blade is incredibly easy to do, and I was able to figure out how the release mechanism worked after only a few seconds. Typically, purchasing a TSA-approved multi-tool means making some pretty major concessions or compromises, though Gerber’s MP600 Bladeless is a different story, as the only real difference between it and any other full-size multi-tool is its blade being of the carbide-grit jigsaw variety.  

All in all, the Multi-Plier 600 Bladeless feels rugged and robust, with its USA-made stainless steel construction. With that said, the two plastic sliders used to unlock the thing’s suite of tools feels decidedly less durable. And while I didn’t see any signs of damage during or after testing it, I could see these plastic elements possibly breaking if exposed to enough abuse. Between the MP600 Bladeless’ being made in the U.S.A. and boasting a more-than-$100 price tag, I was expecting it to have a more premium fit and finish than it did in reality. The handles exhibit a bit of play, and the fold-out tools are far less stiff than the items on other butterfly-opening multi-tools that I’ve tested and/or owned. This small amount of wobble and rattle admittedly doesn’t impact its performance, though I still think it’s important to note — especially because I imagine this issue may be exacerbated over time with regular use. Fortunately, should it ever fail you, the Gerber brand stands behind this American-made multi-tool with a generous lifetime warranty — literally guaranteeing a full lifetime of use.

Verdict: Allowing its user to carry an entire toolbox’s worth of functionality in their pocket or on their hip. The Gerber Multi-Plier 600 Bladeless is a full-sized multi-tool that achieves full TSA compliance without making a single concession or sacrifice — save for not having a regular blade. If raw utility is at the top of your list of priorities when shopping for a TSA-friendly multi-tool, Gerber’s MP600 Bladeless is unquestionably the one you want. 

Windeler Extra Stak

Best Modular Pick: From the mind of British designer and engineer Douglas Windeler, the Windeler Stak Multi-Tool was initially launched through a Kickstarter campaign over the summer of 2020, with its ultra-modular, magnetic-coupling design garnering the attention and backers needed to exceed the project’s targeted funding goal several times over. Crafted from top-shelf grade 5 titanium, this unique system employs a clever design that allows a host of different tools to be magnetically-stacked however the user sees fit. Not only is there a wide range of available “Staks,” but these items can all easily be swapped, removed, or interchanged on the fly. The boutique brand’s Windeler Extra Stak represents its flagship offering, and consists of a Phillips head Stak, a 4mm flathead driver Stak, and a third combo Stak that features a package opener, a bottle opener, a pry bar, and four different wrench fitting sizes. Each tool that comprises the entire Stak can also be used or carried individually. 

Spanning just 4.09” in length and tipping the scales at just 3.35oz, the entire suite of Stak-able tools all feature a Ti6AL4V construction with a bead-blasted satin finish, plus each Stak benefits from the use of Windeler’s new Polnetik connector design which utilizes updated 316 marine grade stainless steel magnet shells, a stepped machined CD pattern, and ultra-potent N52 Neodymium magnet. Another major highlight of the Extra Stak is no doubt its included 2.36” drop point blade. Sporting one of the most clever low-profile folding knife designs I’ve ever seen, this blade nestles into a unique frame-locking titanium handle scale that covers the blade’s edge when not in use. Forged in 440C, this drop point blade is also offered with the option to upgrade to a LC200N construction for just $30 more. It’s crucial to note that the blade is easily removable — leaving the rest of the Stak to adhere to TSA regulations — plus it can also be carried as a standalone EDC blade (and a ridiculously low-profile one at that!). In addition to the four Staks that comprise the Extra Stak, this modular magnetic multi-tool can also be optioned with an available Torx driver Stak, a Surf Stak, and a Cycle Stak. With the option to be supplemented with other available Staks, Windeler’s multi-tool design let’s you build out the perfect multi-tool based on your unique wants and needs — plus let’s you make on-the-fly swaps and adjustments to suit different applications or uses, such as removing its blade when traveling for example. 

It’s hard to even know where to begin when describing everything that I loved about the Windeler Extra Stak. It’s an insanely cool, well-calculated design that allows for an unparalleled degree of modularity, practically guaranteeing that it will be conducive to your EDC wants and needs, assuming you option the thing correctly. Whether dealing with the knife, bottle opener, pry tool, or bit drivers, each tool is sized in a way that allows the user to achieve ample grip. They also feel as good in the hand as they look — and they look amazing. When testing the Extra Stak, we opted to supplement the product’s included Staks with the brand’s newer folding scissors Stak and folding pliers Stak — the latter of which employs a ridiculously cool and ridiculously clever opening setup. With that said, the thing can also be optioned with any other item from Windeler’s rapidly-growing ecosystem of beautifully-designed EDC gear. Clearly designed by a team with an engineering background, this highly versatile design is also brought to life using super premium components and equally top-shelf craftsmanship and build quality. Thanks to powerful magnets, each Stak snaps right into place and lines up perfectly. Removing and swapping them is also ridiculously easy — yet they’re still secure, with the magnets being strong enough to keep everything coupled together. In fact, you really do have to intentionally shake the whole thing in order to get them to uncouple. 

As much as I genuinely love the Windeler Extra Stak, it does have aa few minor downsides to it. Though the basic concept for this stacking modular magnetic system is admittedly pretty brilliant, its IRL use at times leaves a bit to be desired, as I found the tools often needed to be removed and used individually in order to be most effective — though the magnetic-stacking setup makes adding and removing tools a total breeze which hugely lessens this complaint. This was because using some of the tools while they were connected to the rest of the stack made their functionality a bit awkward. I also quickly found that the Extra Stak’s magnets were so strong that they often grabbed a hold of any other alloy items that they were sharing my pocket with. Lastly, while I think it’s fairly easy to justify thanks to its super premium materials, stellar build quality, and generally outstanding design, the Windeler Extra Stak does come at a fairly steep price, with the Stak starting at $159 (or $189 for the LC200N-bladed model), and going up from there, with the price steadily increasing with each supplementary Stak that you add.  

Verdict: A totally novel take on a modern multi-tool that’s as modular as it is premium, the Windeler Extra Stak is a highly-versatile, stacking magnetic titanium multi-tool system that can be built out and configured to lend itself to practically any use or application — plus with a frame-locking titanium knife attachment that can easily be removed on the fly, the Windeler Extra Stak is totally TSA-compliant as well. 

Note: The Windeler Extra Stak comes with 4 Staks, though we opted to test it with the available scissors and pliers Staks.

Big Idea Design Bit Bar II

Best Bit Driver: TSA-approved or otherwise, when we talk about multi-tools, we’re almost always referring to pocketable tools that cram several functions into a compact package. The Big Idea Design Bit Bar II is a little bit different in this regard, as it only really offers a single function, however, it offers said function so well, that it’s definitely worthy of a spot in your EDC loadout whether traveling or commuting to the office. The Bit Bar II is an updated second generation everyday carry bit driver that retains its predecessor’s onboard storage for eight of the most commonly-used bits, as well as its top-shelf grade 5 titanium construction. Spanning just under 4.5” in length, the Bit Bar II is comprised of a DLC-coated titanium body that boasts a titanium pocket clip and a thumb-slider mechanism that raises and exposes the tool’s eight bits, allowing one to easily be removed and then inserted into the thing’s driver slot for using. 

Though it’s also offered in a bare stonewashed titanium version, we opted to test Big Idea Design’s DLC-coated “Battle-Worn Black” model, which not only looks great right out of the box, but it also does a fantastic job of hiding scuffs, scratches, scrapes, and other inevitable wear and tear. I also really appreciate the fact that everything from the pocket clip to the hardware has been hit with a matching DLC coating, plus the bits themselves feature a black oxide coating so they also match the faded, blacked-out motif. The new thumb-slider mechanism also makes deploying and accessing the tool’s included bits even more effortless than on the first-gen Bit Bar. And, not only is the gen-two’s bit storage super secure and super easy to access, but it’s also pretty fidget-friendly too. 

In typical Big Idea Design fashion, an enormous amount of thought has gone into the development of the Bit Bar II, as it boasts a slew of features and elements that are just wildly practical, such as how it features two different bit driver angles, and the fact that it uses magnets to secure the bits, both for its storage slots, and the its two driver ports. On top of an included leather carrying case, the Bit Bar II ships with a super handy 60mm (2.36”) extension bar that hugely ups its real-world utility and use, allowing you to more easily access tighter spaces. The design and size of this tool’s body allowed me to get a really decent grip on it, while still remaining plenty pocketable — an area that hugely separates it from other EDC driver tools on the market. The thumb-slider mechanism and its spring-loaded action are incredibly smooth, and all of the bits fit squarely into their slot, and snap right into place thanks to the thing’s array of embedded magnets. Very seldom do pocket-style tools compare to their full-sized counterparts as far as functionality and utility go, though the second-gen Bit Bit is definitely an exception. This is almost certainly my favorite aspect of the Bit Bar II, as it feels more like using a regular full-size tool than it does a pocketable multi-tool. 

Though there’s no denying that the Bit Bar II represents a pretty massive step forward from its first-generation predecessor, there were still a few minor issues I stumbled upon when testing this TSA-approved multi-tool. First off, I would have liked to see BID incorporate a pry tool or bottle opener into the design of this item, as it really only affords one function — even if it does this one function better than just about any other multi-tool out there. Second, while I love the way the tool’s grade 4 titanium pocket clip has been integrated into the design without any visible hardware, I did find the clip to be incredibly stiff, making it difficult to slip over a pant pocket. I imagine this may change over time as the clip breaks in, but I never noticed it getting easier to use over the course of my testing period. And, at just over half-a-pound, the Bit Bar II is definitely on the heavier side. Third, as much as I really do appreciate the extension arm, it does make the tool generally less pocketable, as you either have to carry this additional element, or leave it at home and not get the performance benefit that it offers. (It is crucial to note that the included leather carrying case does have a slot to accommodate the extension arm, though it adds a decent amount of bulk). Lastly, we should probably talk about the Bit Bar II’s price, as $120 is admittedly a lot to spend on what’s essentially a pocket screwdriver. With that said, I do actually I think it’s fairly easy to justify this item’s MSRP when you factor in its design, construction, and overall functionality — not to mention the fact it comes backed by a lifetime warranty. 

Verdict: With a pocket clip-equipped grade 5 titanium body that features a spring-loaded deployment system, magnetic coupling throughout, dual driver angles, and onboard storage for eight bits, the Big Idea Design Bit Bar II is something of the ultimate everyday carry bit driver tool. Though it lacks the versatility and wider utility of its multi-functionary counterparts, the second-generation Bit Bar more than makes up for it with just how well it tackles its lone function. 

TSA-Approved Multi-Tools Comparison Chart

What To Consider When Shopping

Materials: Materials like stainless steel and titanium are going to be the ones to look out for here. Both are very tough and durable, with the former having great scratch-resistant properties and the latter being significantly more lightweight.

Size: If you’re going to be carrying anything in your pockets, you’ll want them to be somewhat diminutive in size. The options below are all rather small, be it in total volume or slimness (e.g., credit card multi-tools that fit into your wallet).

Tools: Like any multi-tool, the number of tools, along with the type of tools offered, is of most importance to your purchase-making decision. If you value drivers and wrenches, certain TSA-approved options won’t be of value to you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something bare and simple, then you probably won’t need any of the well-equipped options.

Keyrings: The benefit of many TSA-approved multi-tools is the addition of a keyring. This adds a quality of fun to your carry as well as a convenience factor to prevent you from losing your unit.

Versatility: While this list is limited to TSA-approved models, it no doubt affords a multi-tool additional versatility — and therefor value — if it’s able to lend itself to a wider range of uses that extend beyond traveling, as quite a few of our favorite TSA-approved multi-tools also make for stellar additions to practically any EDC loadout. 

Price: Generally speaking, you tend to get what you pay for when shopping for multi-tools, with pricer models getting you larger bodies, more premium materials, and often more functionality. With that said, the more expensive multi-tools seldom afford the same level of value as some of the more budget-focused multi-tools that offer much better bang for your buck. 

Honorable Mentions

Offering phenomenal bang-for-your-buck with a sub-$15 price tag, the Nite Ize DoohicKey is a surprisingly-well-constructed racket key tool that incorporates half-a-dozen functions into its low profile frame — which spans just 2.6”. Crafted from stainless steel, this award-winning item also features removable flat head and Phillips bits, plus sports an integrated carabiner for easy attachment or carrying. 

What’s especially interesting about the SOG MacV Tool SM1001 multi-tool isn’t that it’s under 3” in length or its black-finished 3Cr13 stainless steel construction, or even that it incorporates 12+ tools into its functionality. What’s the most enticing thing about this device is the fact that the Studies and Observations Group has managed to pack all of those features into an item that’s shaped to look like the original skull icon from the MACV SOG Special Forces group from the Vietnam War.

The GIRIAITUS Ratcheting Pry Bar isn’t your average multi-tool, as this pry bar’s construction features an integrated bidirectional ratchet, along with a ballpoint pen, a bottle opener, multiple hex openings, and a box opener. With both a keyring hole and pocket clip, this TSA-friendly multi-tool also affords multiple carrying options, making it even more conducive to travel. 

Crafted from composite and constructed around a stainless steel core, the Tactica M.100 Multitool is another TSA-approved pocket tool that punches well above its weight. Clocking in at only 1.6oz and measuring just 3.3” x 2.0” x 0.5”, the M.100 manages to cram a whopping 17 tools and functions into its pocketable footprint, including a bottle opener, magnetic bit driver, multiple hex openings, and a ruler, just to name but a few. 

Like The James Brand’s Halifax, the WESN MT is a masterclass in multi-tool minimalism. Made in America and backed by a lifetime warranty, this mono-construction item is machined from a solid block of titanium billet and features an integrated bottle opener, pry bar, flathead screwdriver, and scraper tool.

The Griffin GPT Titanium (short for “Griffin Pocket Tool”) isn’t just one of the best TSA-approved multi-tools on the market, it’s undeniably one of the very best mono-construction EDC multi-tools, period. Offered in multiple sizes, constructions, and finishes, the GPT Titanium measures just  3.0″ x .60″ x 0.2”, yet still manages to sport a full dozen of integrated tools and functions — making it an obvious go-to choice for both everyday carry and traveling alike. 

The Best Multi-Tools For Everyday Carry

Want to check out an additional selection of multi-tools that aren’t restricted to just TSA-approved models? Then be sure to check out our wider guide to the best multi-tools for our testing and hands-on reviews of the latest and greatest pocketable multi-tool powerhouses.