SOG have forever changed the multi-tool game with their Baton series. The Q3 is the biggest and burliest of the bunch, housing an impressive 13 tools chosen with wilderness survival in mind. Housed in a sleek anodized aluminum frame the size of marker, this multi-tool has a powerful set of pliers at its core and a wide array of cutting and shaping implements to support it. The components include: 1.75-inch 5Cr15MoV straight blade, pliers, awl, bolt/nut gripper, bottle opener, can opener, chisel, file (3-sided), small and medium flat screwdrivers, jewelry driver, phillips screwdriver, and wire cutter (soft).

Why choose this multi-tool?

• Unique pocket-friendly baton frame
• Stylish black and grey anodized finish
• Houses 13 essential tools for wilderness survival
• Outward-opening components can be accessed without unfolding the frame
• Liner lock holds tools in place when open

Why not?

• Pliers are not spring-loaded
• Short blade is not ideal for large cutting tasks
• Smooth aluminum frame has no grip texture

Pro tip:
Spring loaded pliers, also known as self-adjusting pliers, have a spring mechanism that automatically pushes them open. This feature can reduce hand fatigue, but it also increases the risk of accidental loss of tension.