Gerber Balance, 2012 Edition!

[ari6126]

But would it kill them to have a plain edge version?

[Gareth]

I'm looking forward to handling a Balance myself.   I'm still not convinced of the need for two bit drivers, I know they're different sizes, but surely the point behind using a bit set is that the 'tip' can be any size/shape you want? 

[Grant Lamontagne]

Ordinarily I agree- I often complain about the two bit drivers on the Charge XTi/ALX models, but in this case the different sizes I feel are worth having.  You have the standard 1/4" bits on one side and the "technical" type bit size on the other for electronics and so on.  It's actually a pretty decent arrangement I think.

Def

[Mercury]

I think the rounded edges will make this a pleasure to carry and use.  I plan on buying one simply for fun, but depending on how much I like it, it may find itself a permanent spot in my pocket next to my wallet.  Its been a while since I last carried a MT there, but I do miss the ability to go without a sheath on my belt.

[Grant Lamontagne]

Imagine a bar of soap after a week's use- it's still mostly there but all the edges are worn away and it's smooth and round.  That's what the Balance is like.  Either that or a smooth rock found on the beach.  It really is unlike any tool we've encountered before, and it is quite a joy to hold.  It balances the smooth, almost organic lines of something designed to slip in and out of a pocket easily with the reassuring heft (not weight, but a solid feel) of a good tool.

While the Balance has a limited number of functions compared to some similar type models (Juice line comes to mind) it really does seem like it would be the easiest possible tool to carry with you everywhere.  And, as we all know, the tool that's with you is a thousand times better than the nicer tool you left at home.

Def

[Raukodur]

I really think they missed a trick with this tool in not making it the size of a juice.

Two bit drivers, well, at least they are different sizes, but maybe they should have had one bit driver, and like with the cybertool, used the other space as a secure storage space for bits with different sized ends.

[J-sews]

I think a Juice-sized Balance would be a good idea too

[Grant Lamontagne]

The Balance may be a bit bigger but it is significantly more pocketable.  I think its a lot easier to carry around than the Juice on account of it's shape.

Def

[Mercury]

Something that always bothered me with my juice models is the shape.  While it is slim, it still has weight enough to make sure it stays horizontal(I hate that, laying across my leg and pushing my jeans up) and it can wear through your pockets in a matter of weeks if you let it.  I like either very slim items or very rounded items to ride in my pockets.  They have to be, for lack of a better term, aerodynamic so they slip in and out easily.  The balance looks pretty close to what I would like in that area.