We carry our wallets with us every day, but they’re often filled with junk we don’t need. What if we told you that you could slip in something practical? Like an entire chest full of tools without the bulk?
It’s possible with a credit card tool—a handy tool that you can add to your everyday carry (EDC).
With its size and functionality, we don’t see why you shouldn’t have one within reach.
If you’re new to the prepping game, a credit card multitool is a must-have item in your EDC kit. It’s literally the EDC gear of your dreams.
Not convinced? Here’s everything you need to know about a credit card tool:
What Is a Credit Card Tool?
Designed to be about the size of a credit card, this multitool is a nifty gear that fits your wallet perfectly.
Unlike a normal credit card, though, a credit card tool comes with—you guessed it—a bunch of tools that are handy for everyday fixes.
And for something so thin and lightweight, it’s pretty solid. Of course, you’d expect this since most credit card multitools are crafted from the most rigid heat-treated stainless steel, guaranteed never to rust, dull, or bend.
What Are the Benefits of a Credit Card Tool?
Before we dive into the hullabaloo of selecting the perfect credit card multitool, let’s address the benefits of getting one in the first place. Here are some of the reasons why your EDC isn’t complete without a credit card tool:
They come in a manageable size.
Credit card multitools are small and portable, making them less of a hassle and more of a useful tool to carry around daily. With their size, you’re never caught without the tools you need.
They’re space-efficient.
These pocket tools are built to be compact and lightweight, so you can do away with bulky tools when choosing what EDC gear to pack. You’ll also be able to save the much-needed space in your EDC kit, bug out bag, or camping backpack. Pretty cool, huh?
You have small tools within reach.
Who knows? You might need a sharp blade, a bottle opener, or a mini serrated edge to complete random tasks you encounter on a daily basis. Aside from quick, everyday fixes, these bad boys are reliable in survival situations.
They don’t get unwanted attention.
Since wallet multitools are shaped like credit cards, you won’t be getting suspicious looks in public places because they’re discreet and look harmless.
What Should You Look for in a Credit Card Tool?
A number of credit card multitools might have similar functions here and there, but they’re never exactly the same. One could be better than the other, so you must be sure about your options. Here are a few questions to ask yourself when selecting a credit card multitool:
Is it made of strong material?
Credit card multitools are designed to be multifunctional. Obviously, they’re meant for small but tough jobs, so you better not hold back on choosing the right material. Find one made of stainless steel or some other type of durable material.
Choosing one made of steel that’s lightweight and extremely rust-resistant is something you should consider. You can never go wrong with 420 stainless steel. It’s guaranteed to get things done with its increased strength and hardness.
Does it have a smart and functional set of tools?
Credit card multitools have different combinations and a number of tools depending on the gear’s model and brand. You don’t have to get a multitool with a ton of functions; sometimes, less is more. Your ultimate mission is to look for the most useful one.
You might only need screwdrivers, bottle openers, a sliding blade, or other cutting tools for your everyday fixes. So don’t go too crazy picking one with a bajillion tools if you’re just gonna use half of it.
Does it fit perfectly inside the wallet?
The concept of a credit card tool is for it to fit nicely in a standard wallet. For reference, credit cards usually come in at around 0.80 millimeters thick, while multitools are about 2.0 millimeters thick. There’s not much of a difference between the two, but even with the added thickness, a good credit card multitool should slip right into your wallet nicely.
Is it lightweight?
Credit card multitools can weigh a little bit more than the standard credit card, but they shouldn’t be too heavy to the point where you feel them weighing down your pockets.
A credit card weighs between 0.2 ounces and 0.7 ounces, while a multitool often weighs around 0.9 ounces. The added weight is expected; credit card multitools are made of solid metal. But don’t lose too much sleep over the weight because it doesn’t change this EDC gear’s portability!
Is it easy to use?
You don’t wanna fiddle with your credit card tool for a whole five minutes trying to get it to work, so go for a multitool that doesn’t go overboard with tools and isn’t uncomfortable to hold.
Learning the functions of your credit card multitool is one way to bring out its full potential. Once you know what your multitool is capable of, your muscle memory will guide you when you encounter small emergencies while out and about.
Can you bring it on a plane?
You want EDC gear you can take with you anywhere, even in the sky. Your credit card multitool of choice must be safe and approved for TSA air travel for that to be possible.
You’d be surprised to know how many aren’t actually TSA-approved, so choose wisely!
Where to Buy a Credit Card Tool?
Now that we’ve laid out the four main advantages of having a credit card multitool and what to consider when getting one, you must be itching to get your hands on one of these pocket tools. But where can you buy the best credit card multitools? We’ve got you covered, bud.
In this article, you’ll learn about the top six wallet multitools paired with a prepper’s honest reviews. And on top of our list is TAC9ER’s wallet multitool. It’s number one for a reason, and here’s why:
1. It has 22 tools available. These are:
- Screwdriver
- Straight edge ruler in metric
- Ruler in inches (flip side)
- Cable bender
- Letter/box opener
- Cord cutter
- Can opener
- Peeler
- Screwdriver
- Wire diameter of 1.2, 1.6, 2.0, 2.6
- Cable peeler
- Nail puller
- Nail filer
- Eyeglass screwdriver
- Slide blade
- Hex wrench set of 6, 8, 10, 12
- Lanyard hole/ keyring hole
- Hex wrench of 7
- CXard insert for smartphone stand
- Hex wrench set of 9, 11, 13, 15
- Right triangle/ruler (in and cm)
- Bottle opener
2. It’s durable and easy to carry. TAC9ER’s credit card tool is crafted from heat-treated 420 stainless steel, so you know its strength is impressive, and its toughness is reliable for everyday work. Added bonus: it’s thin, small, and a perfect fit for your wallet!
3. It’s perfect for everyone. This pocket tool is basically idiot-proof as long as you find joy in fixing broken things. Repairmen, mechanics, carpenters, hobbyists, boat owners, and campers will definitely appreciate the wallet multitool from TAC9ER.
Final Thoughts
Carrying a credit card tool in your pocket makes you feel prepared for anything. Whether it’s for small problems or survival situations, a wallet multitool has your back.
You’ll barely know it’s there until you have to whip it out for when you need it most.
Are you getting a wallet tool for your EDC kit? Tell us all about it! We’d love to hear your answers in the comments section below.
