There always seems to be a negative connotation surrounding the word �knife,� because it’s sometimes associated with violence. However, a lot of people still carry a knife, even if it’s a small one, because they have more uses than just hurting people. You never know when you’ll need something sharp to cut string, branches, zip ties, and other smaller things. In these cases though, a dull knife will do you no good, so it’s best to keep a sharpener on hand.

Seeing as it would be a little difficult to bring a wet stone and honing oil with you everywhere, it’s better to go with something smaller, like the Pocket Pal Multifunction Sharpener. It’s very similar to a Swiss army knife in size, but will only help you fine tune the blade of anything that is a little dull. On it you will find a ceramic slot that will finish edges, and sharpen serrated blades, a diamond rod for standard and serrated edges, and pre-set carbides that will sharpen dull edges in the blink of an eye. At only around $8, this is an ideal buy and is so compact that you’ll forget it’s even there. Unless you need it, of course.