best apocalyptic tool?
my vote: bolt cutters
Discussion
Bitcoin
Cordless zipcut
Other contenders:
Sillcock key
Water filter
Mylar blanket
Fresnel lens
Knife
Shotgun/Rifle
Tourniquet
Pry-bar
CB Radio
Paracord
I think there's basically two ways to look at the question: bottom-up (starting with most immediate needs like air, warmth, water, wound care and food) or looking top-down at the tools that provide the greatest potential to meet many needs like a gun, an entry tool, communication tools, etc.
I think overall the single most powerful item is probably a radio.