The answer, in my opinion, is simple: real !@#$in’ pliers!...
Same here, plus scissors. A multi-tool is just a good way to carry pliers and scissors with me in a relatively low-key way. Both items are very useful for survival and daily chores. They are especially good for modifying various items for improvised uses.
You might pose the question to Les Stroud, aka Survivorman, who has stated many times he simply won't be without a multi-tool in the wilds if he has a choice.