Tool Review: Shop Basics BTT-12001 15-in-1 Multi-Function Tool

Key Features:
 +   Strong pliers with good tension
 -    Too heavy for what it offers
 -    Pliers have to be opened to get to the other tools


Multi tools range from the very expensive to the very cheap. In general, the expensive ones are better quality tools than the cheaper ones, with some exceptions. The Shop Basics 15-in-1 multi-function tool (item #BTT-12001) is one of those exceptions.

Shop Basics is a Big Lots brand, and the Shop Basics multi tool is sold in Big Lots stores for $5. That price tag definitely puts it on the lower end of inexpensive multi tools. But this tool is worth more than its price, especially when compared to similarly-priced multi tools.

Like many other multi tools, the Shop Basics tool folds out into a pair of pliers with other smaller tools contained in the handles. The pliers are strong, with long nose tips and standard jaws, and a wire stripper close to the hinges. The wire stripper is about average for multi tool standards; better than some multi tools but worse than others. The pliers are spring-loaded, which is a nice feature, and the spring tension is perfect. The spring does make some noise during use.

The other tools that are part of this multifunction tool include a Phillips screwdriver, three different-sized flathead drivers, two knives (one small, one large), a file, a fish scaler, a hook remover, a ruler, a can opener, and a bottle opener. These tools are decently made, and they look like more thought was put into their design than is typical of the tools included on a low-priced multi tool.

The Phillips driver has a thick, square shaft, and the tip is sturdy. The flathead drivers are slightly rounded at the tips, but are definitely functional. The large knife has a sleek shape to it, with a very sharp tip and a sharp enough blade. The small knife would be called an awl on other multi tools. Most of the tools are easy to get to, and the tension on them (as well as on the pliers) can be adjusted with a Torx screwdriver.

One negative for this tool is that the knives, screwdrivers, and other implements are all stowed on the inside of tool, meaning you have to open the tool up to get to any of them.  The knife has a smooth edge, and would be more useful (in my opinion) if it were partially serrated.

A problem shared by many multi tools plagues this one as well. Because of the design, when you are using any of the screwdrivers, if you apply too much force the driver tends to collapse inward. You can sometimes avoid this issue by angling it slightly, but it's a common problem among multi tools. However, the two handles can be folded so that they somewhat resemble a long shaft, giving you some additional leverage when using the screwdrivers or other tools.

This multi tool is big. It measures about four inches long when closed, and it's heavy. For carrying around in your pocket, it's not the best choice (unless you have thick pants or reinforced pockets) and it doesn't come with a pouch, belt clip, or even a hole to attach to something. But it's a great tool to have with you; you could stow it in your tool bag, glove box, or trunk, or even just leave it in a kitchen drawer. For its $5 price tag, the Shop Basics 15-in-1 multi-function tool is a good value.

(Originally published on Helium.com, March 2013)