# Portable string pick/multitool recommendations? **URL:** \ **Category:** Yo-Yo Mods and Maintenance\ **Created:** [December 24, 2024, 8:38pm UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763 "2024-12-24T20:38:14Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 20\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![Maverick](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/m/258eb7/32.png) [@Maverick](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/Maverick)\ **Post date:** [December 24, 2024, 8:38pm UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/1 "2024-12-24T20:38:14Z")
For a while, I’ve been using a multitool that looked similar to this bearing remover: ![686d7260-520f-58bc-b9f8-8bfa4cc4decc_1024x1024@2x](https://us1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/uploads/yoyoexpert1/original/4X/f/0/3/f032566f7869787b203f42a8a84b328e429a02e0.webp) Unlike the pictured one, it could disassemble into a hex key, string pick (in the form of a spike), and even a small blade for string cutting. Unfortunately, the threads holding it together were fairly weak, and I’ve recently lost everything other than the hex key portion. The string pick was by far what i used the most, so I’m looking for a replacement. Is there some sort of keychainable household item that works as a replacement? Or is there a similar multitool currently on the market? I’ve had no luck trying to find something similar. ---
**Author:** ![YYdudeman](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/user_avatar/forums.yoyoexpert.com/yydudeman/32/668180_2.png) [@YYdudeman](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/YYdudeman)\ **Post date:** [December 24, 2024, 9:08pm UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/2 "2024-12-24T21:08:17Z")
![1000001264](https://us1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/uploads/yoyoexpert1/original/4X/0/6/6/0666c75db17e450c32115fc70f57bbb88cdd3932.jpeg) ---
**Author:** ![yo-yo](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/user_avatar/forums.yoyoexpert.com/yo-yo/32/310712_2.png) [@yo-yo](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/yo-yo)\ **Post date:** [December 24, 2024, 10:27pm UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/3 "2024-12-24T22:27:32Z")
for string picks I usually just use a toothpick or a needle Also the yyf multitool is pretty similar but it doesn’t have a string pick ---
**Author:** ![Maverick](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/m/258eb7/32.png) [@Maverick](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/Maverick)\ **Post date:** [December 24, 2024, 10:40pm UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/4 "2024-12-24T22:40:25Z")
Yeah, I’ve been using needles as well. But getting something I can easily keep on me and quickly take out would be nice. @YYdudeman That does look like it would work well, but I don’t really carry a lighter around in the first place. So it would just a be bit of unnecessary bulk. ---
**Author:** ![GnarlyCharlie](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/user_avatar/forums.yoyoexpert.com/gnarlycharlie/32/279610_2.png) [@GnarlyCharlie](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/GnarlyCharlie)\ **Post date:** [December 24, 2024, 10:47pm UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/5 "2024-12-24T22:47:38Z")
One of those plastic tooth picks like in the old Swiss Army knives would be perfect. I’ll use a paperclip or needle in a pinch, but I get worried using sharp metal and scratching the ano. ---
**Author:** ![Tempura](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/user_avatar/forums.yoyoexpert.com/tempura/32/246135_2.png) [@Tempura](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/Tempura)\ **Post date:** [December 24, 2024, 10:48pm UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/6 "2024-12-24T22:48:51Z")
I use one of those mini Swiss army knives you get for free with some things. Has a scissors for string and a plastic tooth pick thing. ---
**Author:** ![SlowThrow](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/user_avatar/forums.yoyoexpert.com/slowthrow/32/307451_2.png) [@SlowThrow](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/SlowThrow)\ **Post date:** [December 24, 2024, 10:54pm UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/7 "2024-12-24T22:54:05Z")
> [@Perfect Knot Picking Tool](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/perfect-knot-picking-tool/411830): > > I have one of these in my toolbox for its intended use, but the other day it dawned on me that this would be perfect for picking axle knots and not destroying anno, and I’ll be dipped, I was right. It’s SUPER handy having the hook to dig right into the knot. They are available all over, not just from the jungle warehouse I’m partial to these bad boys. If you want it more portable you could cut one in half and drill a hole in it to put it on a keychain ---
**Author:** ![dickytwothrows](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/user_avatar/forums.yoyoexpert.com/dickytwothrows/32/263644_2.png) [@dickytwothrows](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/dickytwothrows)\ **Post date:** [December 24, 2024, 10:54pm UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/8 "2024-12-24T22:54:56Z")
Nothing beats toothpicks imo. Functional, disposable, and you can use them as actual toothpicks. ---
**Author:** ![RC\_yo-yo](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/user_avatar/forums.yoyoexpert.com/rc_yo-yo/32/168781_2.png) [@RC\_yo-yo](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/RC_yo-yo)\ **Post date:** [December 24, 2024, 11:15pm UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/9 "2024-12-24T23:15:18Z")
![IMG_0474](https://us1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/uploads/yoyoexpert1/original/4X/4/b/6/4b6c34f2609db4a1c0d92e8eb4c53227affba51a.jpeg) I forget what they called it, but ZRGT made this killer little tool that has a pick, bearing removal tool and Allen wrench for axle! And it fits in my wallet. ---
**Author:** ![Sleeper80](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/user_avatar/forums.yoyoexpert.com/sleeper80/32/257936_2.png) [@Sleeper80](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/Sleeper80)\ **Post date:** [December 24, 2024, 11:23pm UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/10 "2024-12-24T23:23:33Z")
i usually use my swissarmy knife toothpick. but any toothpick should do most of the time. ---
**Author:** ![YYdudeman](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/user_avatar/forums.yoyoexpert.com/yydudeman/32/668180_2.png) [@YYdudeman](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/YYdudeman)\ **Post date:** [December 24, 2024, 11:30pm UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/11 "2024-12-24T23:30:09Z")
Embroidery needles are also nice cuz they got the hook on the end. Kinda long tho unless u can find a mini ![1000001269](https://us1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/uploads/yoyoexpert1/original/4X/9/5/f/95f6e365afa7a9a9c74977ee2c5be7ec7794785d.jpeg) - or crochet, whichever. Wtf do i know, im not a seamstress ---
**Author:** ![Kaylinity](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/user_avatar/forums.yoyoexpert.com/kaylinity/32/201672_2.png) [@Kaylinity](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/Kaylinity)\ **Post date:** [December 24, 2024, 11:44pm UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/12 "2024-12-24T23:44:30Z")
I’m known at my club for always having these on me. I personally think there is no better tool for string picking other than a bolt action toothpick. > **[Amazon.com: weikui 6 Pieces Portable Titanium Toothpicks Pocket Toothpick Metal...](https://www.amazon.com/weikui-Portable-Titanium-Toothpicks-Toothpick/dp/B0BXP3CD7T)** > > Buy weikui 6 Pieces Portable Titanium Toothpicks Pocket Toothpick Metal Toothpick Holder for Outdoor Picnic and Camping (6): Toothpick Holders - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases ---
**Author:** ![Maverick](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/m/258eb7/32.png) [@Maverick](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/Maverick)\ **Post date:** [December 25, 2024, 12:31am UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/13 "2024-12-25T00:31:14Z")
yeah, that’s basically what I had, though somewhat different in design. ---
**Author:** ![Splizacular](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/user_avatar/forums.yoyoexpert.com/splizacular/32/640487_2.png) [@Splizacular](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/Splizacular)\ **Post date:** [December 25, 2024, 3:04am UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/14 "2024-12-25T03:04:44Z")
@Xanadu might be able to help out. he sources picks for his bear hug holsters > [@Show us your coolest DIY yoyo related accessories](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/show-us-your-coolest-diy-yoyo-related-accessories/405744/18): > > I have made various yoyo accessories over the years. The first was a leather pouch: I made my own nylon strings for a while. I made and sold these holsters that I called Bear Hugs - including my own string pick design: I will likely make these again some day. And most recently I made the 3-Pack, the first product I sold under my lowkey brand Bear&Fox Armoury. (Good news, I managed to find more stock cases i… ---
**Author:** ![Maverick](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/m/258eb7/32.png) [@Maverick](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/Maverick)\ **Post date:** [December 25, 2024, 4:19am UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/15 "2024-12-25T04:19:32Z")
I’ve ended up ordering a toothpick like those suggested by @Kaylinity. However, those certainly look like they would also work well, thanks for bringing them up! Hopefully others will be able to benefit from the various suggestions in this thread as well. ---
**Author:** ![Xanadu](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/user_avatar/forums.yoyoexpert.com/xanadu/32/84910_2.png) [@Xanadu](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/Xanadu)\ **Post date:** [December 25, 2024, 4:22am UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/16 "2024-12-25T04:22:58Z")
Thanks for the mention @Splizacular , I actually hand make my string picks from anodized aluminum wire, it is a softer alloy than 6061 so it doesn’t scratch finishes. My picks come with my yo-yo holsters, the BearHug and my newest design that has yet to be named. I also always keep one on my keys. ☺ ![IMG_8310](https://us1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/uploads/yoyoexpert1/original/4X/0/5/e/05ea0a8704368527f93d7d3e2d7352c4039b195e.jpeg) ![IMG_8393](https://us1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/uploads/yoyoexpert1/original/4X/f/2/a/f2a106371b91d819c367cf92028ccc42428a0e4f.jpeg) ---
**Author:** ![Lido](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/user_avatar/forums.yoyoexpert.com/lido/32/173650_2.png) [@Lido](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/Lido)\ **Post date:** [December 25, 2024, 9:02am UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/17 "2024-12-25T09:02:26Z")
Check this post: > [@Perfect Knot Picking Tool](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/perfect-knot-picking-tool/411830/22): > > I use a string buddy clipped to my bag. It’s a spring loaded knot pick on a retractable cable thing. Is it over-engineered for a knot pick? Absolutely. But is it cool? Extremely. They were giving these out at worlds if you let them film you doing a trick tutorial. I feel like this is something I wouldn’t have purchased on my own, but now that I have one I use it constantly. Pick made by [Seth Dolin](https://www.instagram.com/stringbuddyseth/). ---
**Author:** ![AKYOYOMIKE](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/user_avatar/forums.yoyoexpert.com/akyoyomike/32/286732_2.png) [@AKYOYOMIKE](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/AKYOYOMIKE)\ **Post date:** [December 25, 2024, 10:00am UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/18 "2024-12-25T10:00:26Z")
I love the ZGRT tool, MFD also made a pick that’s nice…ZipLine has a cool wooden pick that works… but my go to is the plastic envelope opener, plastic tip works to pick the string and a built in string cutter. You can buy a dozen for $10 or less and i have one in every yoyo case/ bag / display i own. ---
**Author:** ![mikeydoe](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/flex015/user_avatar/forums.yoyoexpert.com/mikeydoe/32/301589_2.png) [@mikeydoe](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/mikeydoe)\ **Post date:** [December 25, 2024, 3:23pm UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/19 "2024-12-25T15:23:07Z")
grabbed a two pack of these and they’re fantastic! ---
**Author:** ![Kalic00](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/k/f0a364/32.png) [@Kalic00](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/u/Kalic00)\ **Post date:** [December 25, 2024, 8:24pm UTC](https://forums.yoyoexpert.com/t/portable-string-pick-multitool-recommendations/415763/20 "2024-12-25T20:24:01Z")
I keep the yyf multitool and a floss pick on my keychain. The floss is strong enough to keep it attached to the key ring, the toothpick is slightly curved which makes knot picking much easier, they wont scratch anything and are cheap and easy to replace! At home I usually use a thin crochet hook or a wooden toothpick