When you’re packing for a camping trip, every piece of gear has to earn its place in your bag. That’s especially true for tools. While I’d love to bring my entire toolbox with me, it’s just not practical. This is where a good multi-tool comes in. I’ve tried a few different ones over the years, but when I saw the RAXCO Multitool with its built-in hammer, I was intrigued. Could this one tool really handle enough tasks to justify its weight and become a go-to for my adventures? I took it out to the campsite to find out.
The good
- 15 tools in one compact design
- Sturdy stainless steel construction
- Includes hammer and claw
- Comes with a nylon sheath
- Pocket clip for easy carrying
The not-so-good
- Not for heavy-duty tasks
- Small size makes some jobs awkward
- Knife blade could be sharper
What You’re Getting
A heavy-duty 15-in-1 multi-tool made from stainless steel, featuring a unique combination of a claw hammer, pliers, a knife, a saw, and various screwdrivers.
Quick Specs
If you’re ready to dive into the details, here are the key specs for this product. The table below gives you a clear and quick overview of everything you need to know.
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | RAXCO |
| Material | Stainless Steel & Aluminum |
| Dimensions (folded) | 16 cm x 7.5 cm x 3 cm |
| Weight | 430g |
| Color | Black |
| Features | Hammer, pliers, knife, saw, screwdriver |
| Use Case | Camping, fishing, DIY, general use |
First impressions
Taking the RAXCO multi-tool out of its packaging, I was surprised by its weight. At 430g, it feels incredibly solid in your hand, much more substantial than other pocket-sized multi-tools I’ve used. The black finish and the textured aluminium inserts on the handle give it a rugged, durable look. All the different tools are neatly folded into the handle, and the central hinge is strong and smooth.
The most unique feature is obviously the hammer and claw head. It’s a great concept, as a hammer is one of those tools you often wish you had while camping but rarely want to pack. I opened and closed the different tools, and they all clicked into place with confidence. The included nylon sheath feels sturdy and a good way to carry it on a belt.
Materials & Build Quality
The RAXCO multi-tool is made primarily from stainless steel, which gives it a good balance of durability and resistance to rust. The hammer head and pliers feel particularly robust. The handles are also reinforced with aluminium covers and a rubberised grip, which makes it comfortable to hold and provides a secure, non-slip feel even when your hands are a bit dirty or wet.
The build quality feels quite good. The pivot points are tight, and there’s no noticeable wobble when the tools are extended. The locking mechanism on the folding tools is simple but effective, ensuring they don’t fold back on your fingers during use. For a tool with so many moving parts, it feels well put-together and capable of handling regular use on the campsite.
Ergonomics & Weight
While it is heavier than a standard pocket knife or a small Leatherman-style tool, the 430g weight of the RAXCO multi-tool is a fair trade-off for the added functionality of a hammer and pliers. Its folded dimensions of 16 cm x 7.5 cm make it easy to pack, and it fits neatly into the included nylon sheath or can be clipped to a belt with the pocket clip. It feels balanced in the hand, and the rubber grip on the handle is a nice touch.
When you use the hammer, the weight provides enough momentum to drive in small tent pegs. The pliers are also surprisingly easy to use for their size, and the spring-loaded action is a helpful feature. However, because it’s a compact tool, some of the smaller instruments can feel a bit awkward to use, especially the small knife blade. Overall, it’s a good compromise between a full toolbox and a lightweight, simple tool.
Performance & Features
I used this multi-tool for several tasks on my last trip, and it performed admirably for light-duty work. The hammer was fantastic for tapping in tent stakes and was much better than using a rock. The pliers were also useful for tightening a loose screw on my camp chair and for pulling out a stubborn tent peg. The various screwdrivers and can opener also worked as expected.
It’s important to remember that this is a compact tool, not a full-sized one. The saw is useful for cutting thin pieces of wood, but it’s not for chopping firewood. The small knife blade is good for cutting rope or opening packets, but it’s not suitable for food prep or detailed tasks. It’s a tool of convenience that excels at quick fixes and general camp tasks, freeing you from carrying a separate hammer or a larger toolkit.
Gear That Complements Your Camping Setup
A good multi-tool is just one part of a well-equipped camp kit. To truly be prepared for any situation, check out our reviews on compact camp knives, durable camp lights, and other effective tactical gear. Combining a few key pieces of gear will ensure you’re ready for anything the outdoors throws at you.
The RAXCO 15-in-1 Multitool is a versatile and surprisingly sturdy piece of gear that earns its place in your pack.
The inclusion of a hammer and pliers sets it apart from other multi-tools, making it a valuable asset for a wide range of tasks on the trail or around the campsite. While it's not a replacement for full-sized tools, it's more than capable of handling the most common camping repairs and tasks. For the weight and price, it offers an incredible amount of functionality.
This multi-tool is best for campers and backpackers who need a compact, all-in-one solution for common repairs and camp tasks. It’s particularly useful for those who want a hammer and pliers without carrying separate, heavier tools.
Yes, absolutely. For the convenience and sheer number of tools you get in one compact package, it is an excellent value. It’s a versatile tool that can handle a variety of situations and will save you from packing multiple items.
