Tool Review: DeWalt MT8 Multi Tool

Key Features:

 +   Excellent bottle opener
 -   Tools are hard to get at

The DeWalt MT8 multi tool (model #DWHT71842) is typically sold as part of a gift set along with the MT16 multi tool.  (My review of the MT16 can be read here.)  The MT8 -- the smaller of the two tools -- is more of a novelty multi tool than a useful one, and on its own I wouldn't recommend buying it unless you want a cool-looking bottle opener.  There is nothing inherently wrong with the MT8; it just doesn't offer much in the way of functionality.

The MT8 has several small tools, including a knife, a pair of scissors, a double-sided file, a nail pick, and a slotted driver.  The biggest drawback of the MT8 lies in the fact that in order to get to any of these tools, you have to first pull the handles apart.  The only thing the MT8 can be used for without opening it up is a bottle opener.

As a bottle opener, the MT8 works very well.  It's easy to grip, provides plenty of leverage, and pulls bottle caps off smoothly.  Hang it from a nail on the wall in your workshop or garage and it makes a cool novelty bottle opener.  DeWalt bills it as a keychain tool or EDC tool, but it's too heavy to realistically attach to a keychain.

The knife is sharp and well-made, but very small.  Similarly, the scissors work well but are under-sized.  The other tools are average for a multi tool.

The gift set that includes both the MT8 and MT16 (model #DWHT72419L) can be found on Amazon.com for $19.80.  Home Depot sometimes carries it as well, usually for around $20.