Leatherman Micra

The Leatherman Micra is a "keychain" multi-tool that's only 2.5 inches long when closed. Instead of pliers, spring-loaded scissors are the main tool; you can make a small knife by unfolding the handles. Five other pull out tools are available, including three screwdrivers, a nail file, a bottle opener and tweezers (which aren't removable). One handle includes a ruler, which is easiest to see on the plain stainless-steel version. The Micra is also available in five additional colors. The warranty is for 25 years -- a good thing considering some users report a few quality-control issues, such as tools that broke soon after purchase.

The Micra earns good reviews for all-around usefulness as a multi-tool that's small and light enough to carry anywhere. Owners say it's comfortable in a pocket and light enough to attach to a keychain. There's no saw in such a miniature multi-tool, but otherwise reviewers say it's great for backpackers and hikers -- though one owner reports that the scissors didn't cut moleskin. If you need tiny pliers more than scissors consider the Leatherman Squirt PS4 (*Est. $25). Note that both multi-tools have knives so you can't carry them onto a plane; we found many owners lamenting that they'd forgotten to transfer their small multi-tool from key ring to luggage before attempting to board an airplane.

We found an expert review of this tiny multi-tool at Backpacker.com, a publication that tests hundreds of products every year for outdoor enthusiasts. We also found useful reviews from owners at REI.com and Backcountry.com (retail sites aimed at outdoor enthusiasts), as well as more than a hundred reviews at Amazon.com. There are several video reviews of the Leatherman Micra posted at YouTube.com; we found most useful review was the one by a law enforcement officer who uses it as his off-duty carry-everywhere tool.