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Tool Talk => Gerber Tools => Topic started by: The Lone Wanderer on May 06, 2017, 03:17:31 AM

Title: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: The Lone Wanderer on May 06, 2017, 03:17:31 AM
I know its still a relatively new tool, but O figured I'd start a new club. I love this MT, alot. Its got all I need and nothing I don't. It has now usurped and replaced my Swisstools as my MT of choice. Who's going to join the club?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MusicMen on May 06, 2017, 11:52:50 PM
This is my goto MT if I don't need anything special. (or in a challange)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: The Lone Wanderer on May 09, 2017, 10:36:49 PM
2 People in the club!  :woohoo:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: David Bowen on May 10, 2017, 12:00:17 AM
3 people, it's my favorite Gerber to date

Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: zoidberg on May 10, 2017, 12:46:13 AM
No pic no club membership.   :pok:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MusicMen on May 10, 2017, 12:55:19 AM
No pic no club membership.   :pok:
Fine!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: zoidberg on May 10, 2017, 01:08:02 AM
 :)   :D   :salute:   :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on May 17, 2017, 08:25:50 PM
Mine arrived today and it's going straight to Gerber for warranty.  Pics to follow, but the problem is the plier head.  The pivot point has way too much play, alignment is not good, and the cutters hit due to the play. Also the pliers won't close fully with the spare bit holder folded into the handle.

If this is Gerbers QC on their new flagship model I'm not impressed. I guess there's a bad one every now and then but I've never had this problem with a Leatherman and I have 14 of those.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: magentus on May 17, 2017, 08:53:41 PM
That's bad news Kev - Here's to a speedy and satisfactory outcome.  :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: zoidberg on May 18, 2017, 12:06:22 AM
That's bad news Kev - Here's to a speedy and satisfactory outcome.  :cheers:

+1   :popcorn:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MusicMen on May 18, 2017, 12:42:37 AM
Hopefully they will treat you as well as they have treated me with their warranty.
https://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,71890.0.html
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: mikekoz on May 18, 2017, 05:46:14 AM
Mine arrived today and it's going straight to Gerber for warranty.  Pics to follow, but the problem is the plier head.  The pivot point has way too much play, alignment is not good, and the cutters hit due to the play. Also the pliers won't close fully with the spare bit holder folded into the handle.

If this is Gerbers QC on their new flagship model I'm not impressed. I guess there's a bad one every now and then but I've never had this problem with a Leatherman and I have 14 of those.

  Thant stinks, but can't you just return it to where you purchased it from and get it exchanged?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on May 18, 2017, 09:09:40 AM
I could just return it but I bought it from the MTO store so won't return it for a two reasons.

1. It is in Canada and I am in the UK, so it's just as quick for me to send to Gerber myself.
2. It's no bother for me to send it to Gerber myself. The MTO store is just getting off it's feet and I'm sure Grant has enough to deal with, with all of that. I'm sure he would want me to to send it back to him and knowing what he is like on here, will be upset that the tool is not 100%. But I'm going to send it to Gerber myself and sort it.

I'm disappointed in Gerber as it appears the alignment issue is at the machining stage for the plier pivot and it is at an angle as when I pull them into line the cutters crash into each other. That one should definitely have been spotted at the factory and there is probably a bad batch out there with the same issue.

OK here's the pics.

(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4164/34345467810_3a4c98af92_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/UjZv17)

(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4157/34345467840_0c189da0b6_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/UjZv1C)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on May 18, 2017, 09:48:41 AM
Just checked out Gerbers warranty page, they haven't even got my country spelled correctly in the drop down, it should be United Kingdom, they have United Kingdon  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: magentus on May 18, 2017, 09:53:00 AM
Just checked out Gerbers warranty page, they haven't even got my country spelled correctly in the drop down, it should be United Kingdom, they have United Kingdon  :facepalm:
Lol!  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on May 18, 2017, 12:29:46 PM
Just checked out Gerbers warranty page, they haven't even got my country spelled correctly in the drop down, it should be United Kingdom, they have United Kingdon  :facepalm:
Lol!  :facepalm:

What's annoying is it could have been so good, it is even fliky straight out the box. It might well be good, but I'll put off testing it fully till it can be a fair test with a sorted tool.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Carthas on May 18, 2017, 12:43:10 PM
I just bought one of these today from Bunnings, Not cheap in Aus at around $150, and it doesn't come with the bit kit for some reason. The first one of these I got I had to return, as the magnet in the bit holder came out with the 1/4"bit when I pulled it out  :oops:

I've just been spending a few minutes applying 3 in 1 oil to try to clean off the excess black oxide, and the more I handle it, the more I appreciate my Leatherman Surge. It's just the little things - the whole tool rattles, and even when cloed and using the outward opening knife, there is play in the handles still. The locks are plastic, and use a tiny coil spring as opposed to the simpler flat spring like in the Leatherman. I plan on EDCing it over the weekend to see how it goes. Maybe just having to return the first one so quick has left a bad taste in my mouth. We'll see.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: mikekoz on May 18, 2017, 01:02:38 PM
I could just return it but I bought it from the MTO store so won't return it for a two reasons.

1. It is in Canada and I am in the UK, so it's just as quick for me to send to Gerber myself.
2. It's no bother for me to send it to Gerber myself. The MTO store is just getting off it's feet and I'm sure Grant has enough to deal with, with all of that. I'm sure he would want me to to send it back to him and knowing what he is like on here, will be upset that the tool is not 100%. But I'm going to send it to Gerber myself and sort it.

I'm disappointed in Gerber as it appears the alignment issue is at the machining stage for the plier pivot and it is at an angle as when I pull them into line the cutters crash into each other. That one should definitely have been spotted at the factory and there is probably a bad batch out there with the same issue.



         Wow! You are correct! Somebody at Gerber was asleep during the QC session for your tool.  ??? :twak:    I am sure Gerber will take care of that for you though. I have never had to contact them for any reason, but have heard nothing but good stories about their warranty service. I just got one of these tools also, and I am going to look at it a bit later today to make sure mine is OK! It stinks when you get a new toy and it does not work!!  :D
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on May 19, 2017, 08:55:14 AM
Mines winging it's way back to Gerber now.  They will only do the repair/replace from their factory in Portland. If it was a leatherman I could have sent it to their UK main distributor, another black mark for Gerber.

I had a good look at it before I parceled up, you'd have thought they would have had a U shank saw adapter instead of the serrated blade. When it gets back to me in 6 to 8 weeks time it will be a mod to do.  I could also mod some scissors from a SAK to fit in a U shank adapter.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: magentus on May 19, 2017, 09:31:58 AM
Great....now we have to wait 6 to 8 weeks plus however much longer it takes you to do the mod. C'mon Kev, sort it out!  :D
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on May 19, 2017, 10:04:40 AM
Great....now we have to wait 6 to 8 weeks plus however much longer it takes you to do the mod. C'mon Kev, sort it out!  :D

Oooo kayyyy, I'm tryin
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: firiki on May 19, 2017, 10:16:53 AM
:popcorn: 

:angel:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: zoidberg on May 19, 2017, 10:45:20 AM
Is it done yet kev?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on May 19, 2017, 11:09:12 AM
Is it done yet kev?

Hang on I'll check















































































































Nope not yet  :D
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: magentus on May 19, 2017, 11:54:54 AM
Why is it taking sooooooooooooooooooo long?  :pok:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on May 19, 2017, 01:04:25 PM
They are still stoking the boilers on the slow boat to mulitool land, I'm sure it'll only take a little while longer
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: magentus on May 19, 2017, 01:12:55 PM
(https://i.imgflip.com/1pbwv5.jpg) (https://imgflip.com/i/1pbwv5)via Imgflip Meme Generator (https://imgflip.com/memegenerator)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on May 19, 2017, 01:20:22 PM
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4162/33909506504_55da7d7799_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/TEt5TS)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: magentus on May 19, 2017, 01:27:15 PM
(https://i.imgflip.com/1pbxj2.jpg) (https://imgflip.com/i/1pbxj2)via Imgflip Meme Generator (https://imgflip.com/memegenerator)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on May 19, 2017, 02:03:30 PM
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4270/33910068214_b90a48863d_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/TEvXSw)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: magentus on May 19, 2017, 02:10:00 PM
(https://i.imgflip.com/1pbzu1.jpg) (https://imgflip.com/i/1pbzu1)via Imgflip Meme Generator (https://imgflip.com/memegenerator)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on May 19, 2017, 04:25:43 PM
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4250/34754312245_8d068f15b4_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/UX7Wd6)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: AimlessWanderer on May 19, 2017, 08:05:37 PM
Sorry to hear you had a rough time with it Kevin. It is a shame these issues were predictable from the moment these tools were released, without even needing to handle them.

I'm sticking with my prediction that these will be discontinued by 2019 at the very latest. However, I do hope you get a serviceable tool back, and you do manage to get some decent use out of it before the pivot wear renders it unusable again, or the investment cast parts fail.  :salute:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on May 19, 2017, 10:16:45 PM
Sorry to hear you had a rough time with it Kevin. It is a shame these issues were predictable from the moment these tools were released, without even needing to handle them.

I'm sticking with my prediction that these will be discontinued by 2019 at the very latest. However, I do hope you get a serviceable tool back, and you do manage to get some decent use out of it before the pivot wear renders it unusable again, or the investment cast parts fail.  :salute:

Thank you  :tu:

I'm guessing you're not a gerber fan
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: mikekoz on May 20, 2017, 01:19:28 AM
Sorry to hear you had a rough time with it Kevin. It is a shame these issues were predictable from the moment these tools were released, without even needing to handle them.

I'm sticking with my prediction that these will be discontinued by 2019 at the very latest. However, I do hope you get a serviceable tool back, and you do manage to get some decent use out of it before the pivot wear renders it unusable again, or the investment cast parts fail.  :salute:

      I just got one one of these, and it appears very solid. What are you basing this on?  ???
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: AimlessWanderer on May 20, 2017, 12:22:41 PM

Thank you  :tu:

I'm guessing you're not a gerber fan

I am actually. I think I might still have more Gerbers than Leatherman. Big fan of the MP400, MP600, Diesel and even the much maligned Dime.

      I just got one one of these, and it appears very solid. What are you basing this on?  ???

25 years in mechanical engineering, and a lot of experience with the Gerber MP700. I have a thread somewhere highlighting the wear that occurs on spring plier heads, showing photos of my own MP700s - one that is essentially unused, and another that wore out very quickly. You can see side by side shots of the effects of the wear. The play that develops means the cutters can clash and disintegrate if used right handed, and have a substantial air gap if used left handed.

As for the investment cast parts, castings are strong under compression, not tension or torsion - although I must admit, I am still waiting for my first pics of the failed driver arm and pry tool.

Ironically, I still like the MP700, but it wears out significantly faster than other tools
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on May 20, 2017, 05:10:30 PM
If mine wears out it will be a really crappy tool, I doubt it will see much heavy duty use, I use a Surge for that.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ThePeacent on May 20, 2017, 05:59:51 PM

Thank you  :tu:

I'm guessing you're not a gerber fan

I am actually. I think I might still have more Gerbers than Leatherman. Big fan of the MP400, MP600, Diesel and even the much maligned Dime.

      I just got one one of these, and it appears very solid. What are you basing this on?  ???

25 years in mechanical engineering, and a lot of experience with the Gerber MP700. I have a thread somewhere highlighting the wear that occurs on spring plier heads, showing photos of my own MP700s - one that is essentially unused, and another that wore out very quickly. You can see side by side shots of the effects of the wear. The play that develops means the cutters can clash and disintegrate if used right handed, and have a substantial air gap if used left handed.

As for the investment cast parts, castings are strong under compression, not tension or torsion - although I must admit, I am still waiting for my first pics of the failed driver arm and pry tool.

Ironically, I still like the MP700, but it wears out significantly faster than other tools

Could we have a link for that thread, please?   :cheers:
The MP700 is an absolute favorite of mine, and my favorite "fits in the coin pocket" MT.

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-11/CAM06202_zpsvjyyay61.jpg)

I'd be so sad if it lost its "springyness" and it became worn out so quick.

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-11/CAM06201_zpskxbtcv7i.jpg)

Such a nice tool, compact and with a complete toolset, it's not good news to hear that this issue affects the MP700/800 series!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: AimlessWanderer on May 20, 2017, 06:05:10 PM

Could we have a link for that thread, please?   :cheers:


https://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,69464.0.html  :salute:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on May 31, 2017, 09:45:36 PM
I just ordered one and can hardly wait for it to arrive!  If it works out, my son is going to order one too. 
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Grant Lamontagne on June 01, 2017, 01:07:26 AM
Kevin, I am sorry I missed this earlier.  Crap, if I'd have known that it was messed up I wouldn't have sent it.  I'm sorry and quite horrified by this. 

I really like the Center Drive myself, but if I had those issues with mine I'd have been super pissed too.

If there's anything I can do to help you out with this just let me know.

Def
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: kaput on June 01, 2017, 01:27:16 AM
Mines winging it's way back to Gerber now.  They will only do the repair/replace from their factory in Portland. If it was a leatherman I could have sent it to their UK main distributor, another black mark for Gerber.

I had a good look at it before I parceled up, you'd have thought they would have had a U shank saw adapter instead of the serrated blade. When it gets back to me in 6 to 8 weeks time it will be a mod to do.  I could also mod some scissors from a SAK to fit in a U shank adapter.
Being "made in the USA" is a strong selling feature (usually meaning much higher qualities) for companies in the US and a point of pride for the citizens too.

It's all good unless that Gerber employees been boozing it on the job like the fella who put together your CD... lol  :drink:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Grant Lamontagne on June 01, 2017, 02:13:57 AM
Not trying to blindly defend Gerber, but most manufacturers have had issues with first run tools and the quality thereof.

It's frustrating that this happened, but Gerber is hardly the first or only one these issues have showed up in.

Def
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on June 02, 2017, 11:58:33 AM
Kevin, I am sorry I missed this earlier.  Crap, if I'd have known that it was messed up I wouldn't have sent it.  I'm sorry and quite horrified by this. 

I really like the Center Drive myself, but if I had those issues with mine I'd have been super pissed too.

If there's anything I can do to help you out with this just let me know.

Def

I knew you wouldn't be happy that it wasn't right, but these things happen. It was as easy to send direct to Gerber as it was to you so I just sent it to them. I figured you had your hands full with the new store so didn't bother you with it.

I'm disappointed in Gerber as there will most likely be a batch with the same defect, and they haven't got my country spelled correctly on their warranty page which should have been an easy one to get right.

It's already on the way back to me, or rather the replacement is, so I certainly have no complaints about their warranty service.


A local store has them on sale over here. When you take the exchange rate into account, it is still cheaper to buy them from the MTO store, and the ones on sale here don't come with the bit kit like the one I got from you has. So they are a bargain for us Brits.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Grant Lamontagne on June 02, 2017, 12:44:36 PM
Well that's good at least.  I'm glad that Gerber is going the distance to look after you.  Their customer service is excellent.   :tu:

Def
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 03, 2017, 08:32:47 PM
What a beast!!!  I got the bit kit and the MOLLE sheath with it, and I think it made the land speed record from Oregon to Pennsylvania getting here.  I was really taken back by its heft...this is not a pocket carry (at least in my pocket).  I'm looking forward to seeing what it's got!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Grant Lamontagne on June 03, 2017, 10:15:54 PM
It is definitely a handful all right!  I like it, but then I have been known to carry a Surge as well, so I guess just about anything seems light and breezy by comparison.

I know the Center-Drive has had some quality issues, but I have to say, mine has been solid and I like it a lot.

Def
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: mikekoz on June 04, 2017, 12:28:02 AM

Thank you  :tu:

I'm guessing you're not a gerber fan

I am actually. I think I might still have more Gerbers than Leatherman. Big fan of the MP400, MP600, Diesel and even the much maligned Dime.

      I just got one one of these, and it appears very solid. What are you basing this on?  ???

25 years in mechanical engineering, and a lot of experience with the Gerber MP700. I have a thread somewhere highlighting the wear that occurs on spring plier heads, showing photos of my own MP700s - one that is essentially unused, and another that wore out very quickly. You can see side by side shots of the effects of the wear. The play that develops means the cutters can clash and disintegrate if used right handed, and have a substantial air gap if used left handed.

As for the investment cast parts, castings are strong under compression, not tension or torsion - although I must admit, I am still waiting for my first pics of the failed driver arm and pry tool.

Ironically, I still like the MP700, but it wears out significantly faster than other tools

Could we have a link for that thread, please?   :cheers:
The MP700 is an absolute favorite of mine, and my favorite "fits in the coin pocket" MT.

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-11/CAM06202_zpsvjyyay61.jpg)

I'd be so sad if it lost its "springyness" and it became worn out so quick.

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-11/CAM06201_zpskxbtcv7i.jpg)

Such a nice tool, compact and with a complete toolset, it's not good news to hear that this issue affects the MP700/800 series!


      ThePeacent......How long have you had your MP700/800? How much have you used them? If they are holding up and are more than a few years old, yours do not have the problem! I only use my multi's for low abuse, everyday mundane things like opening boxes, cutting string, small wires, opening blister packs, etc, so I am not concerned about ANY of mine wearing out! I have a multitool in front of me that is over 20 years old, was a cheap no name brand Leatherman Supertool sized device, and was used pretty heavily shortly after I bought it, and it is still going strong! The only test for any of these tools is usage!   
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ThePeacent on June 04, 2017, 04:47:11 PM

Thank you  :tu:

I'm guessing you're not a gerber fan

I am actually. I think I might still have more Gerbers than Leatherman. Big fan of the MP400, MP600, Diesel and even the much maligned Dime.

      I just got one one of these, and it appears very solid. What are you basing this on?  ???

25 years in mechanical engineering, and a lot of experience with the Gerber MP700. I have a thread somewhere highlighting the wear that occurs on spring plier heads, showing photos of my own MP700s - one that is essentially unused, and another that wore out very quickly. You can see side by side shots of the effects of the wear. The play that develops means the cutters can clash and disintegrate if used right handed, and have a substantial air gap if used left handed.

As for the investment cast parts, castings are strong under compression, not tension or torsion - although I must admit, I am still waiting for my first pics of the failed driver arm and pry tool.

Ironically, I still like the MP700, but it wears out significantly faster than other tools

Could we have a link for that thread, please?   :cheers:
The MP700 is an absolute favorite of mine, and my favorite "fits in the coin pocket" MT.

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-11/CAM06202_zpsvjyyay61.jpg)

I'd be so sad if it lost its "springyness" and it became worn out so quick.

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-11/CAM06201_zpskxbtcv7i.jpg)

Such a nice tool, compact and with a complete toolset, it's not good news to hear that this issue affects the MP700/800 series!


      ThePeacent......How long have you had your MP700/800? How much have you used them? If they are holding up and are more than a few years old, yours do not have the problem! I only use my multi's for low abuse, everyday mundane things like opening boxes, cutting string, small wires, opening blister packs, etc, so I am not concerned about ANY of mine wearing out! I have a multitool in front of me that is over 20 years old, was a cheap no name brand Leatherman Supertool sized device, and was used pretty heavily shortly after I bought it, and it is still going strong! The only test for any of these tools is usage!

Well, my MP700 is just over half a year old in my collection, but I got it used already by a previous owner

the MP800 was bought years ago, but even then it was also used when I bought it

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/IMG_20160407_082255_600_zpsukhldx2b.jpg)

I haven't abused them, but used the Legend extensively especially last summer where the MP800 was my most carried MT.

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-08/CAM04313_zps8kgma4wk.jpg)
The blade, saw, scissors and drivers were all useful and came handy on occasion, but I never forced it.
What worries me is that the tool becomes non-functional because of time, independently of the use and work it is put against

At least that's the idea I got from your post  :think:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: AimlessWanderer on June 04, 2017, 09:24:35 PM
I met Kev Davey here today, and showed him the two tools I used in the comparison. At first he didn't spot the issue, but then I became quite apparent. Hopefully Kev can confirm what I was saying.

The wear only occurs from real usage. If you only use then lightly and occasionally, the effect for you will be negligible. I used mine quite heavily, and the pivot had worn heavily within less than two years. To some people it won't be an issue - to others it will  :salute:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on June 04, 2017, 10:27:12 PM
I met Kev Davey here today, and showed him the two tools I used in the comparison. At first he didn't spot the issue, but then I became quite apparent. Hopefully Kev can confirm what I was saying.

The wear only occurs from real usage. If you only use then lightly and occasionally, the effect for you will be negligible. I used mine quite heavily, and the pivot had worn heavily within less than two years. To some people it won't be an issue - to others it will  :salute:

Yep I can confirm what 50ft-trad is saying.

I didn't spot it till I closed the plier jaws then the wear became very apparent. The worn one had a lot of play in it compared to the good one.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 05, 2017, 03:24:45 AM
I put mine to use cutting open a bag of dog food.  Mine seems tight and the fit and finish seems really good.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 05, 2017, 02:24:46 PM
Get to ready to do some house work!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MusicMen on June 05, 2017, 05:21:53 PM
Used my CenterDrive over the wekend, along with my Grappler, PowerAcess, and my DimE. I asked the wife, " Small, medium or large". Thinking the I would carry one (or two) tool of that size. Well she says, "extra large". That is why I had a large carry over the weekend.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: El Corkscrew on June 05, 2017, 06:30:06 PM
I definitely get a crap load of YouTube ads about this thing.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 05, 2017, 09:05:58 PM
Busy day!!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on June 05, 2017, 09:16:14 PM
Awesome! :gimme: :gimme:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 11, 2017, 12:56:13 PM
Put the nail puller and pliers to work this morning fixing my belt. 
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Poncho65 on June 11, 2017, 04:15:22 PM
Just catching up on this thread :whistle: It is a great read and very funny at points :rofl: plus lots of great pics :tu: :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 11, 2017, 10:27:19 PM
I think I finally found the perfect kit Poncho.  Ranger/Center Drive combo!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MusicMen on June 13, 2017, 11:36:19 PM
CentreDrive with Grappler and a friend
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 13, 2017, 11:41:49 PM
 :like: :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Grant Lamontagne on June 14, 2017, 10:46:29 PM
It's nice to see the Gerbers aren't to uppity to slum it a bit with the Power Access!  :D

Even better to see some of the pics of everyone putting their Center-Drives to work!   :tu:

Def
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 14, 2017, 11:27:46 PM
I really like mine!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on June 15, 2017, 01:57:43 PM
Parcel to pick up on my way home, I'm only expecting one thing so it looks like my centre drive is back  :tu:

I'll find out in 4 hours time
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 16, 2017, 03:03:48 AM
 :like: Hoping for you man!!  Put my cats paw to work tonight  :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MusicMen on June 16, 2017, 04:17:49 AM
Kevin, good luck with your CentreDrive!
Mine has a new mod.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on June 16, 2017, 08:48:06 AM
Sadly it wasn't it. It was a stainless steel funnel that should have come with a small fuel flask.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: magentus on June 16, 2017, 10:06:20 AM
Sadly it wasn't it. It was a stainless steel funnel that should have come with a small fuel flask.
Pics or it didn't happen  :D
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on June 16, 2017, 11:37:19 AM
Sadly it wasn't it. It was a stainless steel funnel that should have come with a small fuel flask.
Pics or it didn't happen  :D

You want pics of a 59p mini funnel for a 4oz hip flask that I'm going to use in my fire kit as an emergency fuel bottle?

ok I'll take one when I get home

it was this one https://www.amazon.co.uk/Stainless-Steel-Funnel-Flasks-Flask/dp/B00EC7C86Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497605794&sr=8-1&keywords=hip+flask+funnel  and they are only 41p now  :twak:

edit: to go with this hip flask to use as a mini fuel bottle https://www.amazon.co.uk/Stainless-Whisky-Liquor-Alcohol-Pocket-x/dp/B00M9XEITK/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1497606100&sr=8-3&keywords=4oz+hip+flask
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: magentus on June 16, 2017, 11:48:39 AM
I admire your dedication to the forum Kev  :salute:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 16, 2017, 02:54:03 PM
 :salute:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 19, 2017, 02:32:53 AM
Used mine to erect an outdoor kennel for our dogs.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 19, 2017, 02:35:35 AM
Some refreshments afterwards :drink:  Hot and muggy here today!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MusicMen on June 19, 2017, 02:46:39 AM
Amazing what you can do with an MT   :multi:
Enjoy your adult beverage   :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 19, 2017, 02:48:38 AM
 :cheers: I agree and thanks!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 21, 2017, 02:13:49 AM
.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MusicMen on June 21, 2017, 02:57:27 AM
My favorite carry
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 23, 2017, 09:53:53 PM
Day of leisure for us today.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: gerleatherberman on June 26, 2017, 05:32:01 AM

I'm disappointed in Gerber as it appears the alignment issue is at the machining stage for the plier pivot and it is at an angle as when I pull them into line the cutters crash into each other. That one should definitely have been spotted at the factory and there is probably a bad batch out there with the same issue.

It is not just Gerber. Here is a photo of my OHT jaws, AFTER I sent them off to the have the jaws aligned so the cutters would not catch on eachother and the tips would meet equally. They half-butted the repair/return and I got them back only 20 percent better.
I am going to wait another few months before I send them back in again. This time I will request they change the plier altogether. The jaws only meet about 60 percent on light work. If I gently twist them, they sometimes lose all jaw alignment with quite a bit of play for an expensive tool.

Anyway, I am a center drive fan for sure. Mine came to me with no defects and the jaws do not shift a bit after a couple of months use. The cutters are not my favorite. Gerber should switch to thicker 154cm steel on their replacements to solve this well know problem in their replaceable cutter MTs. From a technical viewpoint, this ia not a difficult engineering issue.

First is a pic of the OHT jaw tips with poor jaw contact after a repair claim and the second is the CD with perfect alignment.
It is not the brand in my opinion, but moreso the QC. Maybe someone at the end of a long shift at inspection was just thinking about going home was the person in charge of the checklist. I am guilty of not giving my all at the end of a long work week once in awhile.  :o
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MusicMen on June 30, 2017, 04:35:08 AM
More CentreDrive goodness at tonights concert.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 30, 2017, 04:52:50 AM
 :like: :like: !!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MusicMen on June 30, 2017, 04:59:01 AM
:like: :like: !!!
Thanks!   :hatsoff:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on June 30, 2017, 09:07:43 AM
Mines back!!  :mail: :ahhh :ahhh :ahhh :ahhh

Picked it up on my way to work this morning. Just opened the package and it looks all ok to me. Pics later after my meetings.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: magentus on June 30, 2017, 10:22:08 AM
Mines back!!  :mail: :ahhh :ahhh :ahhh :ahhh

Picked it up on my way to work this morning. Just opened the package and it looks all ok to me. Pics later after my meetings.
Priorities Kev! Get your priorities right.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on June 30, 2017, 12:49:00 PM
Mines back!!  :mail: :ahhh :ahhh :ahhh :ahhh

Picked it up on my way to work this morning. Just opened the package and it looks all ok to me. Pics later after my meetings.
Priorities Kev! Get your priorities right.

I have  :tu: Go to meetings so I can keep my boss happy and keep my job, so I can afford to buy more multi's   :D
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on June 30, 2017, 01:05:37 PM
Piccies

Old one...

(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4157/34345467840_1dd0ecc479_b.jpg)

Replacement one  :tu:

(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4211/34818299893_36a424417d_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4280/35496731881_ce8496c10a_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4242/35627107265_3229d2f4c1_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4138/34818302553_1d3545f3fd_b.jpg)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: pa_strunk on June 30, 2017, 01:22:27 PM
Gerber does have great customer service. They recently replaced my Flick with broken scissors with a brand new Diesel. Glad they took good care of you.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: AimlessWanderer on June 30, 2017, 03:12:52 PM
That looks a lot better Kev  :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on June 30, 2017, 03:18:51 PM
That looks a lot better Kev  :tu:

Yep  :tu:  Everything appears to be lined up where it should be. I managed to bang the end of the pliers while flicking it though and took a bit of BO off it,  you can see it in the pic  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 30, 2017, 05:33:00 PM
 :like: :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: rdub934 on July 06, 2017, 01:12:19 AM
Soon...
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: The Lone Wanderer on July 06, 2017, 05:11:25 AM
After catching up on this thread I'm sorry to see the poor QC on a few of these Centerdrives. Mine has been rock solid the last 2 months and I've put it through the ringer.

The only issue I have had was a small chip on a Phillips bit after trying to free a stuck screw. Other than that I'm happy with it.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on July 06, 2017, 10:58:29 AM
Mines ok so far, though I still tend to use my surge when I know it's going to need a tough tool.  I'll have to try and use the gerber and see how it fairs.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Chako on July 06, 2017, 12:16:58 PM
The local Canadian Tire has this model which I do not have as of yet...but I won't spend 170 bucks for it!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on July 06, 2017, 01:39:30 PM
The local Canadian Tire has this model which I do not have as of yet...but I won't spend 170 bucks for it!

they are cheaper on the mto store. no stock at the mo though. if you want one from there give Grant a  :pok:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: AimlessWanderer on July 06, 2017, 02:06:47 PM
Thanks to Kev (again) I've been able to examine a Centre Drive close up. I did a follow up post on the SOG PowerAccess and Syncs after I got to examine those close up, and now I can do the same with the Centre Drive.

Firstly the pliers. Kev said that he didn't think they looked very strong, but a side-by-side comparison with the Diesel showed that the construction looked solid enough for general use. I still think that the hollow spring opening construction and indexable inserts are a bad idea. These ruin what could have been a versatile and durable plier design for the reasons highlighted before. Also, the way the Centre Drive is put together, the plier heads cannot be readilly swapped with the far superior ones of the Diesel or MP600.

Secondly, the driver itself. This looks weak. I think if people start using these on heavier duty jobs such as rusted screws, we are going to be seeing broken drivers. Kev and I both agreed where the fracture point was likely to be on this. It is also LESS central (when considering both axes) than the Balance.

Cast pry tool - I still struggle to comprehend that professional tool makers would design such a thing. It's ugly, bulky, and I have no confidence in its durability. Something make from rolled plate would be stronger and thinner, leaving space for another function.

Overall, a heavier duty version of the Balance with full 1/4" hex capability would have made for a better tool. The Centre Drive is a nice looking tool, but genuinely strikes me as being less dependable for hard use than the MP600 and Diesel.

Kev, sorry to slate another of your tools buddy, and I hope it serves you better than I am anticipating. :salute: Gerber still maintains a place in my tool array with the Balance, MP400, 600, and Diesel, but the Center Drive will not be on my shopping list at any point.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: The Lone Wanderer on July 06, 2017, 04:55:07 PM
Speaking to the strength of the driver, I have used mine on very tight/over torqued screws. These were tight to the point of me putting a good deal of force on and no issues. However as stated it is more of a long run kind of deal.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: AimlessWanderer on July 06, 2017, 04:56:36 PM
Speaking to the strength of the driver, I have used mine on very tight/over torqued screws. These were tight to the point of me putting a good deal of force on and no issues. However as stated it is more of a long run kind of deal.

Good to know they're up to occasional heavy usage anyway  :salute:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on July 06, 2017, 04:58:20 PM
Thanks to Kev (again) I've been able to examine a Centre Drive close up. I did a follow up post on the SOG PowerAccess and Syncs after I got to examine those close up, and now I can do the same with the Centre Drive.

Firstly the pliers. Kev said that he didn't think they looked very strong, but a side-by-side comparison with the Diesel showed that the construction looked solid enough for general use. I still think that the hollow spring opening construction and indexable inserts are a bad idea. These ruin what could have been a versatile and durable plier design for the reasons highlighted before. Also, the way the Centre Drive is put together, the plier heads cannot be readilly swapped with the far superior ones of the Diesel or MP600.

Secondly, the driver itself. This looks weak. I think if people start using these on heavier duty jobs such as rusted screws, we are going to be seeing broken drivers. Kev and I both agreed where the fracture point was likely to be on this. It is also LESS central (when considering both axes) than the Balance.

Cast pry tool - I still struggle to comprehend that professional tool makers would design such a thing. It's ugly, bulky, and I have no confidence in its durability. Something make from rolled plate would be stronger and thinner, leaving space for another function.

Overall, a heavier duty version of the Balance with full 1/4" hex capability would have made for a better tool. The Centre Drive is a nice looking tool, but genuinely strikes me as being less dependable for hard use than the MP600 and Diesel.

Kev, sorry to slate another of your tools buddy, and I hope it serves you better than I am anticipating. :salute: Gerber still maintains a place in my tool array with the Balance, MP400, 600, and Diesel, but the Center Drive will not be on my shopping list at any point.

It's a tool forum, if I got upset because of someone else's opinion I'm in the wrong place, and I wouldn't have brought it for you to look at. I said it myself, I don't think it will be a very strong tool, due to the cast parts on it. Time will tell how well it holds up to use and abuse. I'll give it a fair trial though and not go out of my way to get it to fail.

I quite like the pry bar on it, though I haven't tried it on nails or anything yet. It's first use was to open some fence wood treatment paint that covered the tool when I did. I took a fair amount of wd40 to get it cleaned out. I didn't clean the wd out of it as well as I thought as you found out when examining the tool  :D
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: AimlessWanderer on July 06, 2017, 05:03:12 PM
 :tu: :salute:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: rdub934 on July 06, 2017, 06:30:00 PM
The local Canadian Tire has this model which I do not have as of yet...but I won't spend 170 bucks for it!

Midway USA has them for $75, as of Tuesday. Not sure what shipping to Canada would do to the overall cost, though.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ThePeacent on July 06, 2017, 07:48:24 PM
I had my doubts on this tool's driver and prybar, so far the only "prybars" I've trusten on MTs are the Spirit/Swisstool's one and the big flat driver on the ST300.
Others have failed (I've broken two Gerber, two Leatherman and one SOG prying with their drivers, either chipping the driver or bending the tool, on the LM the entire handle blew up... :facepalm:) and multitool drivers never inspired confidence, I've broken 2 Phillips drivers and deformed many soft(er) ones like on my Explorer, so I definitely see this being an issue if you don't have proper tools around and only carry the Center Drive, which seems aimed to people who tend to do tough jobs and tasks (mechanics, car repair, industry workers...).

In my view, the Surge and Center Drive have weak jaws for their size, and I'd trust a SOG PowerPlier, Vic Spirit or Gerber MP600 Blunt Nose or LM Crunch way before those two
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on July 07, 2017, 02:53:11 AM
My wife needed pliers tonight.  Always great having the Center Drive around!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: The Lone Wanderer on July 07, 2017, 02:57:40 PM
Nice one Barry!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on July 08, 2017, 04:33:55 AM
 :cheers: It was one of those moments you just wait for, like having the SAK with the only corkscrew in the house!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: The Lone Wanderer on July 08, 2017, 04:45:17 AM
Agreed! I'm glad I had a can opener yesterday and Tinker did just fine!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: rdub934 on July 09, 2017, 04:39:22 AM
I'm in. Couldn't pass up a good deal. Tool feels solid, even more so than the MP600. I really wish it had or could accept scissors, but the weird lock-tab/lanyard loop thing prevents it (I've already tried Diesel scissors). The blade is MASSIVE. The centered driver is cool and a joy to use, so far. I like the springy pliers but the shape of the jaws will take getting used to.

Who's next?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on July 12, 2017, 10:51:48 PM
Guess what just came in the mail!!! :mail: I'm diggin' the center drive. Awesome!! :like: :like: :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MusicMen on July 14, 2017, 12:10:37 AM
 :multi:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: The Lone Wanderer on July 14, 2017, 04:37:31 PM
Welcome to the club folks!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: AimlessWanderer on July 14, 2017, 07:14:56 PM
I'm in. Couldn't pass up a good deal. Tool feels solid, even more so than the MP600. I really wish it had or could accept scissors, but the weird lock-tab/lanyard loop thing prevents it (I've already tried Diesel scissors). The blade is MASSIVE. The centered driver is cool and a joy to use, so far. I like the springy pliers but the shape of the jaws will take getting used to.

Who's next?

Strata scissors  :pok:

The scissors will be "upside down" when deployed and therefore might take a bit of time to find the most comfortable way to use them, but at least the shorter arm will be clear of the body of the tool and able to move properly :tu:

Just a thought  :salute:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: thesavo on July 24, 2017, 08:49:25 PM
My wife bought me a center drive for my birthday in February.  I have always had to call in the warranty because the loop and hook closer isnt holding anymore. It's a step up from my mp600.  I do miss the Scissors. However, the exterior knife and driver is impressive to most bystanders.

Sent from my SM-N910V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on July 26, 2017, 12:08:55 AM
Used mine today at work for unscrewing a metal strap that was hanging from the ceiling. I've also had a chance to use the catspaw on drywall screws, for moderate jobs, it does great! :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MusicMen on July 26, 2017, 12:26:33 AM
Used mine today at work for unscrewing a metal strap that was hanging from the ceiling. I've also had a chance to use the catspaw on drywall screws, for moderate jobs, it does great! :like:
:2tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on July 26, 2017, 03:12:10 AM
Thanks brother! :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on August 01, 2017, 11:14:43 PM
Had to use mine yesterday for bending some metal studs at work, and managed to sneak both an in action and a pre staged pic ( don't tell the boss! :D)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on August 16, 2017, 09:12:08 AM
I used mine last Wednesday to cut open bags of top soil, after 6 bags the blade was blunt and wouldn't cut them, so I switched to a surge and it cut through the other 34 no problem.

I sharpened the blade on my sharpmaker before heading off to the UK meet to put an edge on it and gave it a full sharpen on my edge pro on Monday morning ready for my delivery of bags of top soil coming, as I wanted to try it again, and this time it cut through all 30 bags of top soil and 10 bags of compost no problem.  I guess the factory grind was a little off.

The blade was still fairly sharp after it finished with the bags so just needed a tickle on the sharpmaker to bring it back. Not bad at all I must say. I just need to give it a proper clean out again now as it's a little gritty from the top soil.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: theonew on August 16, 2017, 08:05:16 PM
I have found that almost without exception, factory edges do not stay sharp as long as they do after a couple of hand re-sharpenings. I believe it has to do with the edge having been overheated during the factory machine sharpening process. This is why I always chuckle when I read people complaining about out of the box sharpness.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: AimlessWanderer on August 16, 2017, 08:27:13 PM
I have found that almost without exception, factory edges do not stay sharp as long as they do after a couple of hand re-sharpenings. I believe it has to do with the edge having been overheated during the factory machine sharpening process. This is why I always chuckle when I read people complaining about out of the box sharpness.

I've found the overtempering of the edge to be more of an issue on axes. They often need sharpening a few times before you get to good material and it starts holding an edge properly.

With knives, I have found a wire edge (false edge) to be more of an issue. I have had a few burred edges on Gerbers, the worst of which was on a Flik. That was horrendous, particularly on the "art deco" serrated blade. I would guess that was the case on Kev's Centre Drive
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on August 16, 2017, 08:42:39 PM
It's no Vic hook but it sure works!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: theonew on August 16, 2017, 08:46:11 PM
A wire edge is a definite possibility but in my experience with those, he'd have been lucky to get through one bag of topsoil before noticing a lack of cutting ability.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Etherealicer on August 17, 2017, 09:22:34 AM
I have found that almost without exception, factory edges do not stay sharp as long as they do after a couple of hand re-sharpenings. I believe it has to do with the edge having been overheated during the factory machine sharpening process. This is why I always chuckle when I read people complaining about out of the box sharpness.
I'm one of those guys who complain...
I believe that if I buy a knife, it should be ready to use. So, without a sharp edge, to me that is buying an unfinished product.
Sadly, for many MT manufacturers this is not where it ends. Frame that needs some file work so it does not bloody your hands are fairly common. We are approaching more and more the IKEA model and in 20 years all you need to make your MT ready for use is a belt-grinder a forge and some black-smithing skills
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: theonew on August 17, 2017, 09:53:09 PM
Sharp edge, how sharp of an edge? My wife at first was apprehensive about me keeping our kitchen knives very sharp. Now she can't stand working with a dullish knife. If you intend to strip wire with your knife you probably want a 50 degree angle. If you are going to use it for delicate work than a 20 degree angle is preferable. If it is for push cutting primarily than a polished edge is required. For slicing, a toothy edge. Regardless you will need to sharpen your knife at some point, so to me the analogy is more like buying a new car and complaining that there is only an 1/8th of a tank of gas in it.

Just my $.02 :D

 
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Etherealicer on August 17, 2017, 11:12:31 PM
Sharp edge, how sharp of an edge? My wife at first was apprehensive about me keeping our kitchen knives very sharp. Now she can't stand working with a dullish knife. If you intend to strip wire with your knife you probably want a 50 degree angle. If you are going to use it for delicate work than a 20 degree angle is preferable. If it is for push cutting primarily than a polished edge is required. For slicing, a toothy edge. Regardless you will need to sharpen your knife at some point, so to me the analogy is more like buying a new car and complaining that there is only an 1/8th of a tank of gas in it.

Just my $.02 :D
You are overthinking it. It should perform at basic cutting tasks: cardboard, wood etc.
But if you can't cut a fruit (apple) with it, then its dull, no discussion needed.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: theonew on August 18, 2017, 12:09:02 AM
And if you cut that piece of fruit on a china plate you now have a knife that is too dull to cut a piece of fruit. So the important thing is that it was able to cut the fruit in the first place :think:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: gerleatherberman on August 18, 2017, 05:31:48 AM
I wonder if people are selling factory seconds of the CD? My factory direct CD was perfect. One I got from an ebay listing as a backup had issues that I resolved. I know Bear & Sons lets people buy seconds, but didn't think Gerber did.

A question to those who bought CDs for less than retail or ordered on an outside site. Does yours have issues.

A question to those who bought CDs for retail direct from Gerber. Does yours have issues?

For everyone who bought a CD. Did you bother contacting Gerber before bothering with these adjustments to edges/blades?

Surely a small shipping cost & wait outweighs these time consuming deburring and sharpening tasks?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Etherealicer on August 18, 2017, 11:22:13 AM
And if you cut that piece of fruit on a china plate you now have a knife that is too dull to cut a piece of fruit. So the important thing is that it was able to cut the fruit in the first place :think:
Cutting on a porcelain plate is an abuse/wrong use of a knife and it should not be expected to stay sharp.

Apply that to a car. Buying a factory new knife with a dull blade, is like buying a brand new car with run-down tires. You have to invest time and money before you can use it. And before you say, tires have to be bought, remember that sharpening is not for free. A sharpening system from Spyderco or Lansky costs as much as a knife (and requires training, which is time, which is money) and unless you have really a lot of knives you cannot split the cost. Tires on the other hand only cost a tiny fraction of what a car costs.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on August 18, 2017, 01:19:54 PM
Both my son and I got ours from Gerber.  Mine came without issues except a not so sharp blade.  He is on his second one.  His first had issues with the pivot point at the pliers when opened.  It felt like the spring was binding, not smooth like mine.  I'm not sure what the QC issues are at the plant.  It's almost like the old days of Monday-Friday cars.  I agree on the sharpness issue, but maybe I'm spoiled by Victorinox.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: theonew on August 18, 2017, 10:19:45 PM
Last week I started to cut up a medium sized cardboard box that had come from China.  After about 12 - 18 inches of cutting the edge had been completely wiped smooth. You could safely drag it across your palm. So I guess we need to add cutting cardboard to the abuse/wrong use list for knives.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: gerleatherberman on August 19, 2017, 02:27:06 AM
Edit: deleted because I misunderstood what I read. Sorry ??? Please forgive me moderators!  :ahhh
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on August 20, 2017, 11:34:08 PM
Some zip strap trimming action!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MusicMen on August 20, 2017, 11:50:38 PM
Some zip strap trimming action!
Don't forget to apply for your badge!   :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on August 20, 2017, 11:52:41 PM
Thanks for reminding me!!  :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on August 26, 2017, 12:28:43 AM
Plier spring has been giving me some trouble with this one, hopefully I can work it out. Whenever you have to apply pressure to the pliers, they tend to stay clamped shut instead of springing back open. I'm hoping it's just new MT stiffness. I can't stand to be away from it again! :ahhh :ahhh
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: gerleatherberman on August 26, 2017, 02:59:39 AM
I used some new 3-in-1 silcone-based  lubricant on mine and it took care of the slight gritty feeling. Maybe it will help your CD's stickiness?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on August 27, 2017, 02:47:43 AM
Ok, thanks gerleatherberman! :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on August 28, 2017, 09:05:50 PM
Gave mine some hard use installing lights and sockets for my sister yesterday.  It did very well though was a pain for some screws tight to a wall and could only do a 1/4 turn at a time, but other than that it was great. 
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on August 28, 2017, 09:17:45 PM
Nice Kevin! :tu: Mine hasn't had a job yet today, but I'm sure something will come up :D
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on August 29, 2017, 04:34:50 AM
Great pic my man!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on August 29, 2017, 07:37:18 PM
Thanks! I knew I'd find a job for it to do. :D
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on September 05, 2017, 11:11:35 PM
Had mine camping over the weekend, lots of rain the past few days :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: El Corkscrew on September 06, 2017, 12:59:24 AM
Had mine camping over the weekend, lots of rain the past few days :cheers:


 :like:


Rain... I think I remember what that's like  :think:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: gerleatherberman on September 06, 2017, 01:18:05 AM
Had mine camping over the weekend, lots of rain the past few days :cheers:
Nice picture!
How's it holding up surface rust wise? I have not gotten mine wet yet, so I don't know if it will spot up yet.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on September 06, 2017, 01:28:27 AM
Had mine camping over the weekend, lots of rain the past few days :cheers:
Nice picture!
How's it holding up surface rust wise? I have not gotten mine wet yet, so I don't know if it will spot up yet.

So far no issues, there looks like some spots may be starting at the pivot point for the pliers. Other than that, it's doing well :tu:

Had mine camping over the weekend, lots of rain the past few days :cheers:


 :like:


Rain... I think I remember what that's like  :think:

 :rofl:  :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: gerleatherberman on September 06, 2017, 01:29:49 PM
Thanks Spartan!
Good to know! I will make sure to oil up the pivots before I take mine out on a wet day. :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on September 06, 2017, 03:49:28 PM
No prob buddy :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on September 11, 2017, 03:52:55 PM
I've used my CD a lot lately to give it a really good working over to see how it handles it. After a shaky start with QC issues on the pliers, I am very happy with how robust it is.

I use the pry bar/nail puller for the first time on Saturday and really made it work hard. So hard that I braced myself for it to break but it didn't. Now I know it can take that sort of use, I can use it with confidence. Gerber carbide cutters still suck though, they chip way to easily.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: AimlessWanderer on September 11, 2017, 09:56:50 PM
I've used my CD a lot lately to give it a really good working over to see how it handles it. After a shaky start with QC issues on the pliers, I am very happy with how robust it is.

I use the pry bar/nail puller for the first time on Saturday and really made it work hard. So hard that I braced myself for it to break but it didn't. Now I know it can take that sort of use, I can use it with confidence. Gerber carbide cutters still suck though, they chip way to easily.

The pry tool can actually do proper pry tool work? Now there's a surprise Kev.  :o I saw your thread on wanting a Gerber Phillips, and the first thing I thought was "he's killed his pry tool"
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Etherealicer on September 11, 2017, 10:06:44 PM
I've used my CD a lot lately to give it a really good working over to see how it handles it. After a shaky start with QC issues on the pliers, I am very happy with how robust it is.

I use the pry bar/nail puller for the first time on Saturday and really made it work hard. So hard that I braced myself for it to break but it didn't. Now I know it can take that sort of use, I can use it with confidence. Gerber carbide cutters still suck though, they chip way to easily.

The pry tool can actually do proper pry tool work? Now there's a surprise Kev.  :o I saw your thread on wanting a Gerber Phillips, and the first thing I thought was "he's killed his pry tool"
Good to know I was unlucky and its not a problem with all pry tools.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: AimlessWanderer on September 11, 2017, 10:19:04 PM
I've used my CD a lot lately to give it a really good working over to see how it handles it. After a shaky start with QC issues on the pliers, I am very happy with how robust it is.

I use the pry bar/nail puller for the first time on Saturday and really made it work hard. So hard that I braced myself for it to break but it didn't. Now I know it can take that sort of use, I can use it with confidence. Gerber carbide cutters still suck though, they chip way to easily.

The pry tool can actually do proper pry tool work? Now there's a surprise Kev.  :o I saw your thread on wanting a Gerber Phillips, and the first thing I thought was "he's killed his pry tool"
Good to know I was unlucky and its not a problem with all pry tools.

Yours was more what I expected actually, Beat
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on September 12, 2017, 10:16:03 AM
I've used my CD a lot lately to give it a really good working over to see how it handles it. After a shaky start with QC issues on the pliers, I am very happy with how robust it is.

I use the pry bar/nail puller for the first time on Saturday and really made it work hard. So hard that I braced myself for it to break but it didn't. Now I know it can take that sort of use, I can use it with confidence. Gerber carbide cutters still suck though, they chip way to easily.

The pry tool can actually do proper pry tool work? Now there's a surprise Kev.  :o I saw your thread on wanting a Gerber Phillips, and the first thing I thought was "he's killed his pry tool"

Yep it can actually do proper pry tool work. The philips is for the multiplier I just got, it's a bit chewed up so want to replace it. The CD has a few use scratches and a chipped cutter in the pliers but is otherwise all great so far.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on September 12, 2017, 10:18:38 AM
I've used my CD a lot lately to give it a really good working over to see how it handles it. After a shaky start with QC issues on the pliers, I am very happy with how robust it is.

I use the pry bar/nail puller for the first time on Saturday and really made it work hard. So hard that I braced myself for it to break but it didn't. Now I know it can take that sort of use, I can use it with confidence. Gerber carbide cutters still suck though, they chip way to easily.

The pry tool can actually do proper pry tool work? Now there's a surprise Kev.  :o I saw your thread on wanting a Gerber Phillips, and the first thing I thought was "he's killed his pry tool"
Good to know I was unlucky and its not a problem with all pry tools.

Have you broken yours?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: AimlessWanderer on September 12, 2017, 11:24:42 AM
I've used my CD a lot lately to give it a really good working over to see how it handles it. After a shaky start with QC issues on the pliers, I am very happy with how robust it is.

I use the pry bar/nail puller for the first time on Saturday and really made it work hard. So hard that I braced myself for it to break but it didn't. Now I know it can take that sort of use, I can use it with confidence. Gerber carbide cutters still suck though, they chip way to easily.

The pry tool can actually do proper pry tool work? Now there's a surprise Kev.  :o I saw your thread on wanting a Gerber Phillips, and the first thing I thought was "he's killed his pry tool"
Good to know I was unlucky and its not a problem with all pry tools.

Have you broken yours?

He chipped it trying to pry a brass upholstery nail (or something like that)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Don Pablo on September 12, 2017, 12:17:38 PM
I've used my CD a lot lately to give it a really good working over to see how it handles it. After a shaky start with QC issues on the pliers, I am very happy with how robust it is.

I use the pry bar/nail puller for the first time on Saturday and really made it work hard. So hard that I braced myself for it to break but it didn't. Now I know it can take that sort of use, I can use it with confidence. Gerber carbide cutters still suck though, they chip way to easily.

The pry tool can actually do proper pry tool work? Now there's a surprise Kev.  :o I saw your thread on wanting a Gerber Phillips, and the first thing I thought was "he's killed his pry tool"
Good to know I was unlucky and its not a problem with all pry tools.

Have you broken yours?

He chipped it trying to pry a brass upholstery nail (or something like that)
Yup. A brass nail.  :facepalm: :rofl:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Etherealicer on September 12, 2017, 02:12:43 PM
I've used my CD a lot lately to give it a really good working over to see how it handles it. After a shaky start with QC issues on the pliers, I am very happy with how robust it is.

I use the pry bar/nail puller for the first time on Saturday and really made it work hard. So hard that I braced myself for it to break but it didn't. Now I know it can take that sort of use, I can use it with confidence. Gerber carbide cutters still suck though, they chip way to easily.

The pry tool can actually do proper pry tool work? Now there's a surprise Kev.  :o I saw your thread on wanting a Gerber Phillips, and the first thing I thought was "he's killed his pry tool"
Good to know I was unlucky and its not a problem with all pry tools.

Have you broken yours?

He chipped it trying to pry a brass upholstery nail (or something like that)
Yup. A brass nail.  :facepalm: :rofl:
Not to mention that I don't like using a plastic part as pivot for prying...

Here is my thread for reference (https://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,73389.msg1536480.html#msg1536480), shame that I broke that wooden spatula...
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on September 12, 2017, 10:03:24 PM
I had a lot more meat of mine under what I prying. I'll test to see if the end of mine is that brittle
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Etherealicer on September 13, 2017, 10:09:12 AM
I had a lot more meat of mine under what I prying. I'll test to see if the end of mine is that brittle
Hope yours doesn't break.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: WiseDuck on November 15, 2017, 05:30:28 PM
So I received a Gerber Center Drive today and... I had to immediately call up the place I got it from to ask for a replacement. I'm sending this back tomorrow. They're shipping me a new one right away. Outnorth's customer service is outstanding!

So what was the problem? First off, the pliers were ever so slightly misaligned. The tips were a little off. Second, the bit holder had a bit of flash left on it. You can see a clear cut line near the tip of the bit holder where they had not  cut off the excess material from the production.  We're  talking like 0.5cm of material left on past this point.

And third, worst of all... The bit holder had a substantial crack in it lengthwise, about 0.6cm long from the tip of the bit holder.  You could even see light through this crack. So it's not a question of IF it'll fail, but WHEN the entire bit holder will crack in half. Gerber QC fail. I'll post a picture later today. Here's hoping I get a good one the second time. My MP600 bluntnose has been flawless from the first day and is a beast.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on November 15, 2017, 05:57:56 PM
Sorry to hear of your woes, hopefully it gets sorted quickly for you.

I had the same problem with my pliers https://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,71930.msg1480239.html#msg1480239
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: WiseDuck on November 15, 2017, 11:16:33 PM
Actually, when I look at the pliers again, they appear to be acceptable. They're NOWHERE near as bad as yours. This, however, is unacceptable and would've led to a premature failure of the bit holder. And with a bit inside, I can visibly widen the crack ever so slightly by pushing the bit sideways. Also, what's up with all that material past the cut line? It does not look like this in the official pictures.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: WiseDuck on November 15, 2017, 11:19:02 PM
Another.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on November 16, 2017, 12:27:29 AM
I've got 2 CD's and both of them are cut like that, so I think that's normal.
The crack definitely isn't though. That needs exchanging for a new one.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: gregpost on November 16, 2017, 05:10:07 AM
This thread does not inspire confidence in the product.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on November 16, 2017, 08:59:02 AM
This thread does not inspire confidence in the product.

This isn't the first new tool out there that has been like this, and I'm sure it won't be the last. Every manufacturer has and will do it at some point. Although it's more than a little annoying to us the consumers, how they deal with their lack of QA tells a lot about the company.  I sent mine back to Gerber with the plier issue and it was replaced. SO they have had crap QC at the moment but have a great warranty department (even though they can't spell United Kingdom correctly on their warranty page).
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on November 16, 2017, 09:04:33 AM
Another.

Yep mines the same. The battered looking part of the sloped bit has been caused by me using and abusing it at work.

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4558/26676837429_966a517a38_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/GDkLmV)2017-11-16_08-01-23 (https://flic.kr/p/GDkLmV) by Kevin Davey (https://www.flickr.com/photos/142788496@N06/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: WiseDuck on November 16, 2017, 11:26:12 AM
Yeah, Gerber likes to say that any product in the US is "proudly made" there on the package. If you're so proud of the product, then at least try to make sure no bad products get through QC. Tell the quality control people to slow down a little so they can spot these obvious flaws. That crack was even visible through the blister packaging, but I had to open it to make sure. In hindsight, I should've just refused the package and returned the product right away. Thankfully, I only had to wait a day for a replacement. I'll report back later today after I've received the replacement Center Drive.

Overall, the CD has received glowing reviews across the web. Especially on Youtube where I would say that about 90% of the big review channels love it. But time will tell how well it'll hold up. My initial impression is that it might have two weak spots; the screw and large discs that hold the knife and bit holder in place. How well can these resist a twisting motion? I don't know. I've seen pics of sheared off screws. On my MP600, the center axle that all tools sit on go through the frame of the tool, so they are all supported on both sides, then the screws go into this axle. So any twisting forces will go through the frame of the knife and not the screw on the side. Will the bit holder itself hold up over time? It's a cast piece and the walls that surround the bit itself seem to be somewhat thin, with two large holes on either side of the bit for some reason. (Is this to make the installation of the magnet easier? Can't they just put a bead of glue down there from the top and then shove the magnet down there?)

I'm not saying this is a very common thing, but I think that it could be a weak spot. Anyone else agree?

Don't get me wrong, I do like Gerber and own a good chunk of their products, but I will happily criticize any company out there, whose products I own. Even Victorinox, even they can have spotty QC, though it's far less common. My "Walker" models saw actually got stuck on the frame whenever I tried to close it. I had to bend the saw the other way to get it to close reliably without the teeth digging into the frame. So the soft aluminium frame actually got pretty dinged up in one spot after that.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on November 16, 2017, 01:14:03 PM
I hit it lucky with my Center Drive, and I"ve had a Gator for years, but my son picked up a Gator machete and it was really smurfed up steel wise.  He also wound up returning his original CD and having another sent to him, this time with better luck.  I love their tools, but QC appears to be a HUGE issue and the metallurgy issues strike me as strange for a company that's been in the business for as long as they have.  That being said, I love my CD!  I'm in the Challenge and have really grown to appreciate this beast.  I will say one thing: Gerber warranty service is top notch.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on November 16, 2017, 04:07:11 PM
A pic from the CD challenge.  Really liking this tool! 
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: WiseDuck on November 16, 2017, 05:03:56 PM
I'm happy to report that my second CD is pretty much perfect! Perfectly aligned pliers, no cracks in the bit holder, the knife is better finished and so on. Yay! Pictures will be posted later today after work.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on November 16, 2017, 05:10:18 PM
I'm happy to report that my second CD is pretty much perfect! Perfectly aligned pliers, no cracks in the bit holder, the knife is better finished and so on. Yay! Pictures will be posted later today after work.

Nice one  :tu:

Glad you got it sorted out quickly
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on November 16, 2017, 08:15:42 PM
Outstanding!!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: WiseDuck on November 16, 2017, 11:06:08 PM
Just two small pics. Everything is a bit stiff of course, but it'll loosen up in time, just like my MP600 did. I will apply a bit of oil to all the joints anyway, to speed up the process a bit.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on November 16, 2017, 11:30:33 PM
That's more like it Wise Duck!  You'll love it!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Mavericky11 on November 30, 2017, 12:07:59 AM
I just bought one on Amazon for $51! Btw it's also on sale right now for  $59.

Sent from my SM-G935P using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on December 06, 2017, 03:42:28 AM
 :like:  :like: That's a phenomenal price!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on December 06, 2017, 05:03:33 PM
After carrying it daily for the last 30 days for the challenge I automatically picked mine up this morning
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on December 06, 2017, 08:35:09 PM
Me too!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on December 06, 2017, 10:09:43 PM
Glad it's not just me
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ThePeacent on December 07, 2017, 12:29:28 PM
Glad it's not just me

good indicator that it is a good tool   :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: dks on December 14, 2017, 07:20:00 PM
mine seems OK, at first glance
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on December 14, 2017, 08:45:49 PM
 :tu: :tu: :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on December 15, 2017, 12:15:40 AM
You won't regret it DKS! :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: israelpiper on January 06, 2018, 08:14:39 PM
Gerber Center Drive (with Sante Fe Stoneworks Mammoth and Damascus mini lockback, and Victorinox walnut handle small knife).
(https://i.imgur.com/UHf6iLE.png)

So far so good. It'll all depend on durability under reasonable use, and the quality of the metal.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on January 06, 2018, 11:18:28 PM
 :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on January 25, 2018, 05:29:47 AM
+1!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on February 04, 2018, 11:18:03 PM
 :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on March 10, 2018, 05:50:09 PM
 :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: campussecurity on March 16, 2018, 06:50:38 PM
I'm a fan. After carrying a PowerAccess or Skeletool in my pocket  for a year I had to use the awl on my belt so my pants were not falling down. No pics sorry. (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180316/fc23009b2c6c0ae5f0a2719fbdbf4cc2.jpg)

Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk

Title: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ezdog on March 17, 2018, 01:27:01 AM
I got this one Today and can not stand the sheath it came with,no clip or even decent belt loops so.......

Spare Skinth with
Center Drive
Bit Set
ET D25C-NW
Thrunite TI-5-NW

I will likely get rid of the TI-5 for another AA light as soon as I find one that fits.

Not too sure how I feel about the tool just yet?
Not as slick as the Spirit X and just pretty clunky overall so far.
I was hoping I could flip out the pliers one handed but maybe they just need to break in?

Change=BAD


(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180317/3009d1297321be1257cb4001d7d5f102.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180317/f2aa172a1eef14ef8084bd0aee9dbf4e.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180317/83e2ede1e8392aeb802ea539e0c3c1b0.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180317/9ad99b524cd87778c221d6a2055d2d27.jpg)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ReamerPunch on April 12, 2018, 01:38:45 PM
Do loki's Gerber wrenches fit the screws on the Center Drive?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on April 13, 2018, 09:04:55 AM
Do loki's Gerber wrenches fit the screws on the Center Drive?

I have a set so I'll check tonight for you, but I think they do.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ReamerPunch on April 13, 2018, 11:40:43 AM
Do loki's Gerber wrenches fit the screws on the Center Drive?

I have a set so I'll check tonight for you, but I think they do.

I assume they'll fit, but I thought I'd check. Thanks!  :cheers:
Title: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: jaya_man on April 14, 2018, 04:07:43 PM
I don’t have those Gerber wrenches... Instead, I’ve used 90° angled pliers similar to this to mod my MP600...

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180414/2d0515ec0bdd3ecdb107375e1601c72a.jpg)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on April 14, 2018, 05:32:51 PM
Do loki's Gerber wrenches fit the screws on the Center Drive?

I have a set so I'll check tonight for you, but I think they do.

I assume they'll fit, but I thought I'd check. Thanks!  :cheers:

Oops forgot about this last night. I'll go check now
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on April 14, 2018, 05:41:31 PM
Yep the wrenches fit. There's a little play but you can use the tape trick to get rid of that.  Just put a thin piece of tape on top of the stud then press the wrench on, it takes up the little bit of play.

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/808/41452437131_cedf86b3b4_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/26a1znV)

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/890/40738040824_feb7b4d2f8_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/254T7fd)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ReamerPunch on April 14, 2018, 06:32:12 PM
Yep the wrenches fit. There's a little play but you can use the tape trick to get rid of that.  Just put a thin piece of tape on top of the stud then press the wrench on, it takes up the little bit of play.

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/808/41452437131_cedf86b3b4_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/26a1znV)

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/890/40738040824_feb7b4d2f8_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/254T7fd)

 :tu: Thanks. Good news.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on April 14, 2018, 08:02:44 PM
Yep the wrenches fit. There's a little play but you can use the tape trick to get rid of that.  Just put a thin piece of tape on top of the stud then press the wrench on, it takes up the little bit of play.

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/808/41452437131_cedf86b3b4_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/26a1znV)

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/890/40738040824_feb7b4d2f8_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/254T7fd)

 :tu: Thanks. Good news.

You're welcome  :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on April 18, 2018, 11:03:30 PM
I would love to put a saw on mine!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on May 04, 2018, 10:47:35 PM
Needed a heavy duty screwdriver! Sorry about the glare :facepalm:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on May 06, 2018, 01:07:54 PM
I can't stop finding used for mine!  I had to replace the mower deck belt on my tractor yesterday and broke out my Center Drive.  I don't believe there's many jobs you couldn't get accomplished with a combo like this!  I used a torx bit to remove two pulley covers with the assistance of my youngest son, who absolutely loves the Center Drive.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ThePeacent on May 06, 2018, 05:36:09 PM
I can't stop finding used for mine!  I had to replace the mower deck belt on my tractor yesterday and broke out my Center Drive.  I don't believe there's many jobs you couldn't get accomplished with a combo like this!  I used a torx bit to remove two pulley covers with the assistance of my youngest son, who absolutely loves the Center Drive.

kewl!
The versatility of a universal bit driver is hard to match  :salute:  it seems you've taken good profit of that feature.
Now you'll have a tool to pass on to your son that he'll actually carry and enjoy as much as his father!  :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on May 06, 2018, 08:09:24 PM
 :cheers: You're right about that my friend!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on May 15, 2018, 04:35:18 PM
I'm currently in the Camper Challenge, but ran into a situation where pliers were the only option I had available.  The alternator went south on my Subaru, and took the battery with it.  Luckily, something told me to pack the CD in my gear last night.  I used those awesome pliers to loosen the terminal nuts so I could bring it home to put it on the charger. 
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ThePeacent on May 16, 2018, 01:39:40 PM
I'm currently in the Camper Challenge, but ran into a situation where pliers were the only option I had available.  The alternator went south on my Subaru, and took the battery with it.  Luckily, something told me to pack the CD in my gear last night.  I used those awesome pliers to loosen the terminal nuts so I could bring it home to put it on the charger.

good that your CD was on you and saved the day  :cheers:

that is why I always carry at least one pliers tool with whatever SAKs  :salute:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on May 16, 2018, 02:57:30 PM
Great advice my friend!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Bancomat85 on May 19, 2018, 10:26:39 AM
My center drive should be delivered to my door today (to replace a Sog PowerAssist)... Can i join the club?


Inviato dal mio MI MAX 2 utilizzando Tapatalk

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on May 19, 2018, 04:29:40 PM
Welcome aboard!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 16, 2018, 06:42:16 AM
Went along on a hike with my Vic Rambler today!  This guy has been busy with a ton of homework lately and hasn't missed a beat!  That light behind the CD is literally the light at the end of a 1/4 mile long railroad tunnel.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 17, 2018, 11:03:47 PM
I'm in the 58/65/74mm challenge over in the Swiss Army Knights section but needed something with a little more smoke to erect an outdoor kennel for our sheepdogs. I put the CD to use. Everything from the pliers and wirecutter to the cat's paw got a workout!  I'm still thrilled with mine!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on June 18, 2018, 03:36:55 AM
Nice! :like: :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 18, 2018, 03:38:47 AM
 :cheers: Thanks buddy!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on June 21, 2018, 02:38:08 AM
 :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 21, 2018, 02:42:56 AM
 :like: Great pic!   I recognize that background! :D
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on June 21, 2018, 02:47:54 AM
Nothing like kp trays! :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: smoovemoove on June 23, 2018, 09:17:22 PM
New here, but had to come somewhere to share my good fortune. I was on the fence between the Center Drive and another leatherman until visiting the recently reopened "Gander OUTDOORS" and noticed they had the tool with sheath for 59.99. I knew I had to bite now. Turns out it was supposed to be 99.99 and as they hurried to change the displayed price I calmly and quietly paid 59.99 as a grief stricken manager humbly instructed the cashier to subtract $40!!!

P.S. Huge shout out to the guys there for doing the right thing!!!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180623/695dab58500fb308f9d1a45cf9617f34.jpg)

Sent from my SM-G892A using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Kev D on June 23, 2018, 09:25:52 PM
Nice score  :tu:

And welcome to  :MTO:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 23, 2018, 11:32:51 PM
Way to go and welcome aboard!!  You will absolutely love the Center Drive!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on June 27, 2018, 02:23:20 AM
+1! Guarantee it!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 27, 2018, 04:45:59 AM
 :like: Great pic!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 30, 2018, 06:30:21 PM
Put the Center Drive to work draining my hot water heater today!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: recklesstryg on July 10, 2018, 09:09:13 PM
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/466/32098959602_5c0f543c2a_z_d.jpg)
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/532/32209638756_4701affa61_z_d.jpg)
Made a gravity/ friction holster with a sleeve for the bits
Attaches to a dual phone holster.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ducttapetech on July 10, 2018, 09:14:21 PM
Nice!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: zoidberg on July 11, 2018, 09:04:10 AM
Yeah I still want one.   :like:   :gimme:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: NetsNJ on July 19, 2018, 06:47:03 AM
Really coveting one of these.

Question for owners: do you use yours to cut wire or do you avoid this given the cutters?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on July 19, 2018, 06:55:35 AM
I've cut all kinds of things with my cutters and never had an issue Nets.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: The Lone Wanderer on July 28, 2018, 07:49:11 AM
After a break from carrying this tool, I'm back for full time EDC, the one handed knife and slick action one handed pliers cannot be beat.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: zoidberg on July 28, 2018, 10:34:44 AM
Yeah I still want one.   :like:   :gimme:

+1   :tu:   :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: WiseDuck on September 04, 2018, 07:22:25 PM
Gosh, sad sad day. I lost my Center Drive! I don't know where it is, but I suspect that it has been left behind up on Fulufjället fell. I.e. up in the Swedish mountains, pretty dang far from here. I hope a hiker finds it and gets some use out of it, because I aint getting mine back, that's for sure! (I went on a hike with a girl I'm dating, on the second day I guess I packed my things a bit too quick and missed it)

It's a shame, I really really liked it. I used it mainly for work as a do-it-all type of tool.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: tosh on September 04, 2018, 08:57:44 PM
Gosh, sad sad day. I lost my Center Drive! I don't know where it is, but I suspect that it has been left behind up on Fulufjället fell. I.e. up in the Swedish mountains, pretty dang far from here. I hope a hiker finds it and gets some use out of it, because I aint getting mine back, that's for sure! (I went on a hike with a girl I'm dating, on the second day I guess I packed my things a bit too quick and missed it)

It's a shame, I really really liked it. I used it mainly for work as a do-it-all type of tool.

Hey WiseDuck

You helped me find those missing Ranger Snows  back in 2016!!, I've never forgotten.
I have a Center Drive that I bought used over a year ago, it's fine no issues at all.How about I send it to you by way of a thank you.
I'll never use it, it's been sat in a box since the day it arrived.

Pm me your full address and I'll post it this friday.

 :hatsoff:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on September 04, 2018, 09:20:09 PM
 :salute:. That's what makes this Forum such a special place!!  Way to go Tosh!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: AimlessWanderer on September 04, 2018, 11:05:31 PM
Top man!

Well played, Tosh  :hatsoff:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: WiseDuck on September 05, 2018, 06:13:29 PM
Gosh, sad sad day. I lost my Center Drive! I don't know where it is, but I suspect that it has been left behind up on Fulufjället fell. I.e. up in the Swedish mountains, pretty dang far from here. I hope a hiker finds it and gets some use out of it, because I aint getting mine back, that's for sure! (I went on a hike with a girl I'm dating, on the second day I guess I packed my things a bit too quick and missed it)

It's a shame, I really really liked it. I used it mainly for work as a do-it-all type of tool.

Hey WiseDuck

You helped me find those missing Ranger Snows  back in 2016!!, I've never forgotten.
I have a Center Drive that I bought used over a year ago, it's fine no issues at all.How about I send it to you by way of a thank you.
I'll never use it, it's been sat in a box since the day it arrived.

Pm me your full address and I'll post it this friday.

 :hatsoff:

Goddang, you really don't have to do this... But, if you insist, I can't say no!
I'll send a PM right away.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: WiseDuck on September 05, 2018, 09:06:53 PM
False alarm!
Like a complete dum-dum, I misplaced it after unpacking at home. I saw it today, just sitting on a shelf I never put any tools on, ever. I feel like a fool now, but this was a relief. I really do appeciate Tosh's offer though, he's a great guy. And yes indeed, this is what makes this place special, thanks everyone!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on September 05, 2018, 09:31:11 PM
 :woohoo:. That's awesome news!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: tosh on September 05, 2018, 10:11:16 PM
False alarm!
Like a complete dum-dum, I misplaced it after unpacking at home. I saw it today, just sitting on a shelf I never put any tools on, ever. I feel like a fool now, but this was a relief. I really do appeciate Tosh's offer though, he's a great guy. And yes indeed, this is what makes this place special, thanks everyone!

Here's what you could've had...  :mail:
Guess I'll take it to work, now I've found it out....see if Mr Center Drive lives up to the hype
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on September 05, 2018, 10:18:02 PM
You can't beat it!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: WiseDuck on September 05, 2018, 10:49:48 PM
Sure, I could've kept my mouth shut. And then I'd have two of these things. But that just aint right.
You keep yours and use it well, or send it to someone who ACTUALLY needs one.  :cheers:

Its a great tool, it can do a lot! The only con is the weight, really.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: clown on September 14, 2018, 04:10:27 AM
I want to buy a Centerdrive so bad for a work EDC but I use cutters all day and the idea of the carbide cutters shattering all time is keeping me away.  :bnghd:  Its driving me nuts lol.  I emailed Gerber to explain my frustration and ask if a fix was in the future.  Sadly, I'm not really counting on getting a response, let alone one with good news.  But a guy can hope!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on September 14, 2018, 04:17:11 AM
I think I must be the only one that hasn't had any issues with a Center Drive.  Mine has worked like a charm since Day one!  I just used the bit driver tonight to remove a guard from a mower deck.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Antti Lammi on September 14, 2018, 05:52:16 AM
Im definetly getting now this tool, offer was just way too superb to bypass.

Only Tools Matters

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: mtoolman on September 14, 2018, 10:01:11 AM
I was seriously thinking about the Center Drive a few days ago, but some negative reviews on the cutters shattering in youtube reviews and also having no scissors made me to go for other models.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Antti Lammi on September 16, 2018, 09:26:15 AM
Im getting my newest tool in few days, i read also those shattering cutters but i think im not gonna use those so much that would actually bother me and deal was so good that i just couldnt resist offer. 30€ for it isnt bad price

Only Tools Matters

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: zoidberg on September 16, 2018, 09:57:12 AM
Im getting my newest tool in few days, i read also those shattering cutters but i think im not gonna use those so much that would actually bother me and deal was so good that i just couldnt resist offer. 30€ for it isnt bad price

Only Tools Matters



Wow that is so unfair, cheapest I've seen here is 110€.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Antti Lammi on September 16, 2018, 10:07:34 AM


Im getting my newest tool in few days, i read also those shattering cutters but i think im not gonna use those so much that would actually bother me and deal was so good that i just couldnt resist offer. 30€ for it isnt bad price

Only Tools Matters



Wow that is so unfair, cheapest I've seen here is 110€.

Well also here its around 110€ but i got email cause i had buying annoucment on MTs so this guy emailed me and offered his tool for 30€.
He told me that he havent used after he gotted as gift this. He didnt have clue what it was cause he introducet it Gerber Leatherman i saw pictures of it and immediatly saw it was centerdrive and after that i sealed deal

Only Tools Matters

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: zoidberg on September 16, 2018, 10:12:03 AM


Im getting my newest tool in few days, i read also those shattering cutters but i think im not gonna use those so much that would actually bother me and deal was so good that i just couldnt resist offer. 30€ for it isnt bad price

Only Tools Matters



Wow that is so unfair, cheapest I've seen here is 110€.

Well also here its around 110€ but i got email cause i had buying annoucment on MTs so this guy emailed me and offered his tool for 30€.
He told me that he havent used after he gotted as gift this. He didnt have clue what it was cause he introducet it Gerber Leatherman i saw pictures of it and immediatly saw it was centerdrive and after that i sealed deal

Only Tools Matters



Good deal.   :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Antti Lammi on September 16, 2018, 10:16:05 AM


Im getting my newest tool in few days, i read also those shattering cutters but i think im not gonna use those so much that would actually bother me and deal was so good that i just couldnt resist offer. 30€ for it isnt bad price

Only Tools Matters



Wow that is so unfair, cheapest I've seen here is 110€.

Well also here its around 110€ but i got email cause i had buying annoucment on MTs so this guy emailed me and offered his tool for 30€.
He told me that he havent used after he gotted as gift this. He didnt have clue what it was cause he introducet it Gerber Leatherman i saw pictures of it and immediatly saw it was centerdrive and after that i sealed deal

Only Tools Matters



Good deal.   :tu:
Thanks, its gonna be my first Gerber and im eager to see hoe good it is after all

Only Tools Matters

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Antti Lammi on September 18, 2018, 05:47:10 PM
Ok today got my newest addition and my first ever Gerber. I was suprised size of this tool(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180918/bebea08c30e0995dc0437b092e000f03.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180918/8da50ab3cccba3261d654b00e58d8bcc.jpg)

Only Tools Matters

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on September 19, 2018, 03:59:48 AM
It's a handful of tool, but you will find it will stand up to anything.  I've used mine for everything and it keeps coming back for more.  If I could change one thing, it would be to substitute the serrated blade for a saw.  If I did that, the only thing that would keep me from carrying it all the time is the size.  It's not so much big as it is wide on the belt, with the bit kit. 
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: israelpiper on October 06, 2018, 07:17:39 AM
After quite a few months I am disappointed in the CenterDrive. It is not robust, and the small tools and cutter and knife roll, bend, chip too easily.

It is a great LIGHT-use too only.  But nothing heavy. The driver is not as long as my LM Surge with extension. And is as awkward feeling as many MT drivers.

Why the cheap or poorly heat-treated metal for the tools? 

Is this Chinese parts assembled in USA? Not being cheeky. I am curious. Not that I blame China for Gerber quality control practices.

CenterDrive Idea is good. Execution is of uneven quality, especially metal and/or heat treatment.

Ironically my low priced Gerber Evolution, essentially a Suspension, has proven more durable. To say nothing of my Leatherman  or Victorinox MTs.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on October 06, 2018, 03:04:59 PM
You aren't alone in your findings.  I don't understand why Gerber had the issues they do either.  I agree with the whole Suspension series in that it feels so much better than most of the rest of the lineup quality wise!

I'm beginning to think that I have the sole Center Drive without issues.  I've borderline abused it and it just keeps on taking it.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: mtoolman on October 06, 2018, 04:32:08 PM
Are there officially considerable differences in quality and durability of the tools Made in China and Made in USA?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: AimlessWanderer on October 06, 2018, 05:42:09 PM
Are there officially considerable differences in quality and durability of the tools Made in China and Made in USA?

That's a can of worms. Good and bad products can be made anywhere, however some companies contracting out manufacturing to the lowest bidder, are prepared to accept quality compromises for that low purchase price. Quality sadly is often given lower priority than margins and intended sales price. Judge the tools on their own individual strengths and weaknesses, and not country of origin.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: israelpiper on October 06, 2018, 06:52:33 PM
Are there officially considerable differences in quality and durability of the tools Made in China and Made in USA?

That's a can of worms. Good and bad products can be made anywhere, however some companies contracting out manufacturing to the lowest bidder, are prepared to accept quality compromises for that low purchase price. Quality sadly is often given lower priority than margins and intended sales price. Judge the tools on their own individual strengths and weaknesses, and not country of origin.

This is very true. I have had a few cheap Coast knives for years. One a liner lock with G10 scales, 9cr18MoV steel. Still solid lock-up, no blade play. Not a refined looking piece of engineering, or the lightest knife around. But not rolling or chipping. Needs resharpening or stropping now and then, but less than some of my LM 420HC multi tool blades. After a lot of use over a year, I went and bought two more. Point being, most reviewers won't even review Chinese-made Coast knives. Snobbery. I have held some darn fine Chinese knives. Kershaw also proves the point of potential Chinese quality. Uneven, maybe, but if the contracting company enforces materials specs and QC the end product can be excellent. (Haven't gone Ganzo yet, though, on MTs. The exposed spring bothers me.)     
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: mtoolman on October 06, 2018, 11:51:57 PM
My MP400 and MP600 have no stamps or marking saying where they are made in, so I am assuming they are all made in China.

They seem working OK, and very durable so far.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on October 08, 2018, 05:44:13 PM
Are there officially considerable differences in quality and durability of the tools Made in China and Made in USA?

That's a can of worms. Good and bad products can be made anywhere, however some companies contracting out manufacturing to the lowest bidder, are prepared to accept quality compromises for that low purchase price. Quality sadly is often given lower priority than margins and intended sales price. Judge the tools on their own individual strengths and weaknesses, and not country of origin.

 :iagree:Very true! I am on my second USA made Center drive, as the first one I had had some problems with the pliers, While I have had the same Chinese made suspension for 7 years now, and have never had any trouble with it, despite putting it through the wringer on several occasions. Some are good, some are not so good. I am pretty much done buying Gerber products now, as the last few products I've bought from them haven't been that good. It's not the Same gerber that I new and loved
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on October 08, 2018, 07:49:49 PM
 :iagree:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: israelpiper on October 09, 2018, 10:30:36 AM
I am getting a little tired of all the "excellent warranty service" of this or that multi-tool firm. They factor in a substantial return and replacement scheme in their prices, as anyone here who knows business will agree. Nothing is given away gratis. Great warranty--but NOT great quality control. Imagine an arms manufacturer selling assault rifles to a nation's armed forces based on poor to mediocre quality control, but a cheerful and prompt returns and replacement warranty service. Battlefield disasters would abound.

Many much more complicated devices than multi-tools are made, with far better quality control. My wife's Daihatsu Sirion has gone ten years with only standard maintenance and tune-ups. Not one breakdown.

I would rather true quality and endurance. So far, only my LM Surge, LM SuperTool 300, Victorinox SwissTool, and Victorinox Spirit come pretty close to the mark. On my other MTs from various other firms, many of the smaller tools are woefully below the quality of the main tools. 
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on October 09, 2018, 02:46:18 PM
I agree my friend!  Not to keep beating a dead horse, but Gerber has been at the multitool game almost as long as Leatherman and has had all kinds of QC issues.  I don't know what is going on in Portland, but Fiskars management should take a trip down from everything I've read here over the years.  I own 3 Gerber mts, the Center Drive, 400, and the new NXT.  I've not had issues with them, but my BG hatchet chipped at the edges after only very light duty and my son's machete was pathetic.  Ultimately, I've spent most of my adult life in one uniform or the other, and the only one I'd stake life and limb on is Victorinox.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: israelpiper on October 09, 2018, 06:49:07 PM
I fear that uneven quality control, coupled with the generous and courteous returns and replacement policies, has become an established business model.

The MT works best as an on the belt or in the pack or glove compartment "always there" mini tool kit. If I have a problem I need the MT then and there, not the warranty honoured later, cheerfully done and dusted by a future employee of the year.

Screwdrivers that strip first use, nail pulls that snap on real nails, serrated knives that struggle to cut rope, make me want to return to a custom tool roll for pack and auto.

Top of the line LM and Victorinox are all I would seriously rely on. Rebar is decent around the house or tent.   I love the SOG pliers, but again small tools are a little flimsy. Gerber got me excited with the CenterDrive. My fault in part.
This rant is done...
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ReamerPunch on October 10, 2018, 11:25:43 AM
 :iagree:
The abundance of overwhelmingly positive "reviews" on the tube baited a lot of people, combined with the aggressive promotion of it by Gerber.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: mtoolman on October 10, 2018, 03:30:42 PM
First, I was thinking about the Centre Drive seriously, but found a lot of aspects were not convincing.
So I went for the cheaper MP400 and MP600, and they are fine. No markings where they are made in, but all seem working OK.

I think I was lucky.  All MTs have good and bad points - even LM Surge and SWISSTOOLS.

MP400 and 600 also have plenty bad points, but I like their good points.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: israelpiper on October 10, 2018, 04:43:25 PM
First, I was thinking about the Centre Drive seriously, but found a lot of aspects were not convincing.
So I went for the cheaper MP400 and MP600, and they are fine. No markings where they are made in, but all seem working OK.

I think I was lucky.  All MTs have good and bad points - even LM Surge and SWISSTOOLS.

MP400 and 600 also have plenty bad points, but I like their good points.

Good and bad points are one thing. Inferior materials and heat treatment are another.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: mtoolman on October 12, 2018, 12:09:26 PM
First, I was thinking about the Centre Drive seriously, but found a lot of aspects were not convincing.
So I went for the cheaper MP400 and MP600, and they are fine. No markings where they are made in, but all seem working OK.

I think I was lucky.  All MTs have good and bad points - even LM Surge and SWISSTOOLS.

MP400 and 600 also have plenty bad points, but I like their good points.

Good and bad points are one thing. Inferior materials and heat treatment are another.

Saw some adverts for CenterDrive in half price sale.
Time to reduce the price for the model?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on October 14, 2018, 12:13:48 AM
Must be, they are to the point where even Walmart is carrying the cd now :multi:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on November 26, 2018, 11:43:44 PM
 :multi:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on November 26, 2018, 11:49:27 PM
Awesome picture!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ezdog on December 17, 2018, 06:55:17 PM
I am pretty much in love with mine,it has changed my life in a way!

I really just use the Pliers and Driver but they seem to me to be better than anything else I have tried,including the Vic.

Only Time will tell I suppose?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on December 17, 2018, 07:02:08 PM
I love mine!!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on December 18, 2018, 02:16:44 AM
Here's mine!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on December 31, 2018, 06:02:03 PM
Haven't carried mine in awhile.  I still absolutely love this tool!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on January 30, 2019, 12:18:09 AM
Kevin, good luck with your CentreDrive!
Mine has a new mod.

Do you have a write up of this? The wire stripper looks great!!

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: zoidberg on January 30, 2019, 01:17:15 AM
Kevin, good luck with your CentreDrive!
Mine has a new mod.

Do you have a write up of this? The wire stripper looks great!!

Charles.

MM was the best, rest in peace good buddy.   :salute:   :salute:

Charles, I don't recall there being a write up posted but others might.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on January 30, 2019, 01:40:49 AM
I agree Z.  I don't believe he did a write up either, but I do believe it was one of the first Center Drive mods.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: chrono on February 16, 2019, 02:11:30 PM
I will be getting a black CD thru buying a gun cleaning kit  :think:  for a bit over $50 in total  :D Some of these kits are on eBay if you fancy a black CD and some extra
https://www.ebay.com/itm/US-MILITARY-OTIS-CQB-CLEANING-KIT-5-56mm-223-NEW-IMPROVED-GERBER-MULTI-TOOL/202580054550
https://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-OTIS-CLEANING-KIT-5-56-GERBER-MULTITOOL-SOLDIERS-TOOL-KIT/113633953001

From what I read, I should not have too high of expectation on the tool, huh? An ultimate MT for me is half a Leatherman Surge (with PE blade and scissor), and the bit driver of the Gerber CD. Is such mod possible?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Antti Lammi on March 01, 2019, 07:55:56 PM
Does someone knows where to get parts to mod Center-Drive especially scissor is needed cause i want to get rid off serrated blade and replace it with scissors


Only Tools Matters
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Sam Lim on March 08, 2019, 12:18:10 PM
I will be getting a black CD thru buying a gun cleaning kit  :think:  for a bit over $50 in total  :D Some of these kits are on eBay if you fancy a black CD and some extra
https://www.ebay.com/itm/US-MILITARY-OTIS-CQB-CLEANING-KIT-5-56mm-223-NEW-IMPROVED-GERBER-MULTI-TOOL/202580054550
https://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-OTIS-CLEANING-KIT-5-56-GERBER-MULTITOOL-SOLDIERS-TOOL-KIT/113633953001

From what I read, I should not have too high of expectation on the tool, huh? An ultimate MT for me is half a Leatherman Surge (with PE blade and scissor), and the bit driver of the Gerber CD. Is such mod possible?

Is the CD driver a must? There are probably other tools that can use as a bit driver.. Assuming the driver is going into the internal tool bay?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on March 14, 2019, 05:04:57 PM
Some pics from the Challenge!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: gerleatherberman on March 26, 2019, 07:01:22 AM
Nice work, Barry!

Gerber sure did a decent job with following up on their sliding pliers design. :)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on March 26, 2019, 01:07:43 PM
Thanks Gman! I agree.  I really like this tool.  It's been my go to since I bought it.
Title: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ezdog on March 26, 2019, 01:39:02 PM
Thanks Gman! I agree.  I really like this tool.  It's been my go to since I bought it.

Same here!
I didn't even drag my Spirit along for the fun in Montana the last 2 weeks and that is a pretty huge change for me!

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190326/e48841a8503f904b1de31433a88a57aa.jpg)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on March 26, 2019, 09:28:41 PM
That's a great kit!  I've been itching to take mine on a campout :D
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: The Lone Wanderer on March 31, 2019, 09:51:37 PM
I've been carrying mine regularly the last few days, and I have an RAE sheath on order to replace the bulky stock sheath.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on March 31, 2019, 09:56:45 PM
Post a review of that sheath when you get it LW.   About the only complaint I have is the bulky sheath that comes with the CD.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: The Lone Wanderer on April 01, 2019, 03:14:25 AM
Roger that Barry, I plan on posting an initial impressions thread when I've had some hands on time.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: chrono on April 04, 2019, 01:55:56 AM
Is the CD driver a must? There are probably other tools that can use as a bit driver.. Assuming the driver is going into the internal tool bay?
For me, yes. I prefer the long reach. A blade, scissors, and a driver should cover most of my needs at work.Oh, and I want a clip too!  :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: zoidberg on May 26, 2019, 12:18:01 PM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47935074347_6ca984fc70_b.jpg)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on May 26, 2019, 04:15:09 PM
 :like: :2tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ezdog on May 27, 2019, 03:48:18 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190527/ce33f48059efd572cafad4aed84df1d2.jpg)


Sent from my iPhone,dont expect too much
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on May 27, 2019, 04:13:33 PM
I like that ezdog!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ezdog on May 27, 2019, 07:55:41 PM
I like that ezdog!

Thanks!
This is what I carry every day.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on May 27, 2019, 08:09:17 PM
It's pretty difficult to top a Center Drive!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ezdog on May 27, 2019, 08:17:21 PM
It's pretty difficult to top a Center Drive!

Well if the driver is the most important part of a MT for your jobs it sure seems so.
I also really like the spring loaded pliers and cutters more than the others but overall I also wish the CD had more tools and was slimmer overall but beggers can not be choosers as they say and this is the best I have EDC carried so far.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on May 29, 2019, 11:21:37 PM
Doing a little maintenance work today :multi:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on May 30, 2019, 01:13:27 AM
 Nice job!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: zoidberg on May 30, 2019, 01:22:54 AM
Nice job!

+1   :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on June 06, 2019, 06:39:04 PM
Would it be possible to replace the bit holder between the blade and the center drive tool with a few tools from another multi tool? Obviously without a standard Gerber locking mechanism MP600 tools are out. It'd be nice to have a can opener and lanyard ring over there at least. Maybe find a short reversible bit to fit in the main driver tool. I know I've seen those somewhere.

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: zoidberg on June 07, 2019, 12:56:43 AM
Would it be possible to replace the bit holder between the blade and the center drive tool with a few tools from another multi tool?

Yes.

Obviously without a standard Gerber locking mechanism MP600 tools are out.

Any tool put there would have no locking mechanism.
They would have to be short to clear the plier slide. Approximately one inch from centre of pivot.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on June 11, 2019, 05:11:49 PM
Cool, I just snagged one of these for $60 with a gun cleaning kit on eBay. Will MP600 tools fit in this? I'd love to replace that serrated blade with scissors. I've already got a pocket clip on order, that will be my first mod. (A pocket clip is necessary for any tool to be an EDC for me).

I'm thinking it'd be interesting to have a saw blade holder where the extra bit is contained now. Something like the holder on some versions of the MP600. It wouldn't even need to fold, if I could find a way to just lock it in place, I could insert or remove saw blades as needed - and keep some longish ones around too. But, I'll hold off any thoughts of mods until I actually get one in my hand to play with - and disassemble :)

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on June 13, 2019, 07:36:15 PM
Well, I'm part of the Center Drive Club now. I just got it in, and played with it a it. I had to unscrew the blade pivot bolt a bit, as the blade was quite difficult to open with two hands, much less one.

The sliding mechanism isn't what I was expecting or am used to. I like the MP600's flick-open approach, and this is actually difficult to open one-handed. At least, as a brand new tool. I added some lube to the slides and opened and closed it a bunch and it got noticeably better, so hopefully it will loosen up.

That's the other thing... I'm expecting it to be loose like the MP600, and everything is tight tolerances with this. Not what I was expecting, but not bad either. I do like the spring-loaded pliers. Somehow I missed that they were spring loaded.  The cutters suck for small stranded wire. My MP600s all cut the small stuff far better, and several of them have completely smurfed up cutters, with dents and nicks and chunks taken out, then filed down so the pliers will close again without binding.  So that's a bit disappointing, but not a deal breaker.

I love the bit driver and the OHO blade. I always loved the gerber-based scissor tool with the chrome handles and the little fold-out tiny pliers. That's one of my most-used tools, actually. And this is a pliers version of that. I was always thinking about getting another to mod with an MP600, and have spring-loaded pliers with an OHO blade. Then I'd replace the external pliers with a fold-out micro bit driver. (Planned to do some welding to accomplish this).  So the Center Drive is pretty much the tool that I was envisioning, with a better bit driver but without a wood saw.  That's kinda cool. I can mod in a wood saw pretty easily, and get rid of the serrated blade. Scissors would be nice too, but there's room for one or the other, but not both.

I'm going to mod a pocket clip to it and see how I like EDCing it instead of my much-loved, nicely-modded MP600.

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 14, 2019, 12:13:55 AM
 :popcorn:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on June 14, 2019, 06:19:09 AM
Hope you enjoyed that popcorn, because my first wave of mods is done.

First is the clip. I used a Titanium clip for a Zero Tolerance ZT0055 knife, snagged off of eBay for around $26. All-black clips are five bucks or so more, but they're powder-coated and I prefer natural metal or black oxide.

Next the screws and the holes. The handle is hardened stainless. Tiny-ass screws hold this clip onto the stock knife, but a tiny-ass tap is going to break trying to go through stainless. So, I drilled with a 2.5mm hardened bit, and tapped with an off-the-shelf name-brand 4-40 tap. SLOOOOOOOWLY. After drilling my holes (with a drill press), I then chucked the tap into the drill and gently, slowly, ever so carefully tapped the holes. One "CLICK" at a time, watching the tap closely for twisting, constantly dialing it backwards, and oiling it regularly. After about 45 minutes I had two tapped holes. I was in a hurry, and broke the tap after I was done and was extracting it a little too quickly. So... don't rush.

I practiced on an old Rebar frame first. I had done this before to my MP600, but I tapped it metric (M3), and the taps I used were junk. I wore several of them out and STILL didn't cut full threads. So I just used some red locktite and screwed the M3 screws in to what little threads there were. (Felt like it was cross-threading the whole time). BUT over a year later that's still holding up.

This time, I wanted to cut full threads, and that's why I practiced on the Rebar first. It can be done with a high-quality Irwin tap, a drill press, and a lot of time. After succeeding with the Rebar frame I made my holes in the Center Drive and tapped them the same. I chose the screwdriver side, and yes the driver does interfere with the pocket lip when I'm trying to clip the CD to my pocket. BUT, when I remove it from my pocket the deploy button is right under my thumb and the pliers are easy to open. I was going to drill and tap the other side too, so I could try it both ways, but I broke my tap before I got that far.

The screws are standard 4-40 screws, but I chucked them into my drill press and held a file against the edge until I turned the diameter down such that they'd fit through the cutout in the top of the clip. I slightly enlarged the holes in the clip with a dremel and a diamond rotary tool, but only slightly. After tapping, I screwed it all in, and used a dremel with a cutoff wheel to cut the excess off inside the handle.

Finally, I ground my file into a scraper blade, like I've done with all my Gerber tools. Then I used a whetstone to finish it.

I like the results!

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 14, 2019, 08:03:07 AM
I  :like: that!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on June 14, 2019, 05:16:40 PM
Whoops, I said an old rebar frame, but I meant a diesel frame. I don't really like the Diesel, I just bought it to mod the scissors and saw into an MP600. So I may buy another clip, modify some more screws, mount the clip to the diesel frame, and then sell it.

Or I may hold on to it, because I need another Diesel for another saw and scissors mod...

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Chako on June 15, 2019, 12:57:55 AM
It took me some time, but I now have one.

(https://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo006/IMG_7409small_zpsgfruayvd.jpg) (https://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo006/IMG_7409small_zpsgfruayvd.jpg.html)

(https://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo006/IMG_7410small_zpshi9aoi2y.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo006/IMG_7410small_zpshi9aoi2y.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 15, 2019, 01:47:50 AM
Way to go Chako and nice collection! :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Chako on June 15, 2019, 02:07:59 AM
Thanks Barry Rowland.  :salute:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on June 19, 2019, 04:10:33 AM
I’ve been EDCing the center drive for a few days now and I’m really liking it. However, the little bit holder is in the way. It prevents me from really bearing down on the pliers when trying to pull cellophane or foil from the top of containers. It’s an extra step to unfold that bit holder so the pliers will function for such thin material. None of my mp600s have this problem. Some other tools do, but that’s usually because the serrations in the plier jaws are too sharp. Only the center drive has a problem actually gripping thin stuff.

Granted it’s not a huge problem, but I open stuff with my multi tool all the time, so it is a bit annoying. 

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Ivo on June 22, 2019, 11:24:20 AM
I just come back from shopping and saw this GERBER for €70 , is it a good price ?  :pok:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Top-Gear-24 on June 22, 2019, 03:57:57 PM
I just come back from shopping and saw this GERBER for €70 , is it a good price ?  :pok:

Was this at the A. S. Adventure store in "your" city?

I saw that they briefly had the Center Drive at -50% discount, costing only 69,95 Euro or so, but they were sold out quickly. And one of the stores who had one in stock was the one in your hometown.

Now on topic, the cheapest I found one (except the one at - 50% discount) was about 100 Euro, so yes, 70 Euro is a good price (but for some reason I didn't bite  :think:, while I held one in my hands for like half an hour while in the store only two weeks ago, when it was still at -30% discount.

For some weird reason I thought I could use that 70 Euro on something else (better?  :dunno:).

Edit: used the word one quite a lot. Reading back my own post. But I'm at work and don't have the time to do something about that right now  :P.

 ;)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Mechanickal on June 22, 2019, 04:09:50 PM
I thought we agreed you'd PM me when this would happen... :wait:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Ivo on June 22, 2019, 04:10:27 PM
Yes it is in A.S. in Turnhout  :cheers:
And it was at 50%
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Mechanickal on June 22, 2019, 04:44:40 PM
:facepalm:

TG, you owe me a Center Drive...

:rant:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Top-Gear-24 on June 22, 2019, 05:27:29 PM
:facepalm:

TG, you owe me a Center Drive...

:rant:

I'll give you mine...  :whistle:

Show content
which I don't have...


The way I see it, you owe me a thank you whenever you spend that 70 Euro on something better  :pok:

And in my defence, there were like 4 stores which still had the CD in stock, and they were gone mighty fast (which is why I find it weird that their webshop says "sold out" while at least one of the stores who had one in stock still has it available, weird...)

Edit: I'm not saying the Center Drive isn't something good, but choices have to be made since my "tool budget" is way smaller than my wanted tool list...  :poh:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Mechanickal on June 22, 2019, 05:53:50 PM
Might visit my local AS tomorrow...
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Top-Gear-24 on June 22, 2019, 10:21:35 PM
Might visit my local AS tomorrow...

If I remember correctly the last stores who had them were the ones in Aalst, Turnhout, Veurne and Oostende.  And they were all gone in half an hour time or so ...

Maybe they just took them offline, and they are still in these stores ?   :dunno:

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Mechanickal on June 22, 2019, 10:25:18 PM
You checked them all??
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Top-Gear-24 on June 22, 2019, 10:33:35 PM
You checked them all??

Yeah, I jumped into my car and drove halfway around the country to see where they had them ...

 :whistle:

Show content
You do know that you can check their site to see which store has something in stock, right ?  By the way, can't do that for the CD anymore, since it's listed "out of stock", but when it was still available, the above stores were the last ones who had at least one of them

Edit: Maybe we should continue this with PM, we're ruining this topic ...  :pok:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Top-Gear-24 on June 24, 2019, 04:08:02 PM
When I opened up a new screen on the pc today I noticed that the page with the Gerber CD on the A.S. Website was show in "my favorite sites", so I decided to click on it just for the heck of it and guess what ... The CD was available again, and still at -50%, this had to be a sign that I really should just buy it, right ...

 :whistle:


So, I put it in "my basket", clicked on the checkout button and entered my creditcard info, and right before I clicked on "buy it" I thought "maybe I should try and buy two of them ...", went back to "my basket", but when I changed one into two it said there wasn't enough stock, so I quickly changed it back to just one and completed the buy.

One minute later I received an e-mail confirming my order so it might just be that I picked up the very last one at -50% discount (If I don't get an e-mail these next 24h or so saying they can't deliver my order since it's out of stock  :dwts:).

Show content
Sorry Nick ...  :surrender:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 24, 2019, 05:15:11 PM
 :like: :woohoo:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on June 24, 2019, 07:22:22 PM
I removed the awl and the serrated blade from my center drive and added the jigsaw blade holder from an MP600 pro scout. It was a drop in replacement, no filing or modification necessary. The awl fit in the pro scout too. I was wondering if the center drive took mp600 tools or diesel tools, and thankfully it takes mp600 tools.

Mp600 scissors won’t fit though. The larger release lever gets in the way, and they’re completely a no-go. 

The combination tool works for opening bottles AND as a can opener. It’s not a good can opener, like the MP600 opener, but it is passable. It does a decent job.

For me, it’s a hard decision as to which is a better EDC, between my modified mp600 or this center drive. (Both have pocket clips) The jaws on the center drive don’t open nearly as far as the blunt nose mp600. The center drive weighs more and is more bulky to carry. The screwdriver and blade seem to make up for this. I almost never use the blade or drivers in my mp600. I usually have a pocket knife on me and it’s faster to open that for a blade. The center drive’s blade is nice and big and easily deployed, and I leave the knife at home now. The screwdriver I’ve used more than the pliers now.  So for that use, the center drive really wins. With the mp600 in my pocket, I reach for real screwdriver often as not. The mp600 just doesn’t have the reach.

But, if I ever need to grip larger items, the mp600 wins. Especially for garden hoses and the like. It’s always a trial to get my power washer hooked up, for instance. The clearance is weird and pliers help immensely. The MP600 has more tools, scissors and saw and file and openers and whatnot.

So for me, I cannot retire the mp600 entirely. It still has valid uses that the center drive cannot manage.

If they made a blunt nosed CD, that might be enough to retire the mp600.

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: zoidberg on June 26, 2019, 02:50:49 AM
Mp600 scissors won’t fit though. The larger release lever gets in the way, and they’re completely a no-go. 

It's hardly a surprise though is it after seeing the short handled scissors on the plus version.

If they made a blunt nosed CD...

That would be pretty cool.   :dd:   :gimme:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on June 26, 2019, 03:44:55 AM
Oh somehow I forgot the pic. Here it is.

I thought the scissors could be modified to fit, but there is really no way. It wasn’t clear from the photos until I had some scissors out of the tool, but the distance between the tool pivot and the scissors blade pivot is greater on the CD scissors than on the mp600. It’s not just a shorter handle, the tool itself is longer.

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: zoidberg on June 26, 2019, 03:53:54 AM
I put Diesel? scissors in my MP600, small reprofile needed around the pivot area but totally worth it for the extra reach.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on June 26, 2019, 07:05:45 AM
I have diesel scissors in one of my mp600s. Longer reach yes, but also more pressure required, which is hard on my thumb. They’re also not as smooth for some reason. Still the extra reach is nice. They still won’t work on the CD tho.

Edit: diesel saw, bottle opener, and large flat driver as well in my MP600. Saw because saws are useful. Large driver because it is beefier and I’ve bought two mp600s with broken large flat drivers - both broken at the narrowest point. The diesel driver doesn’t have that narrow area. The diesel bottle opener because it is shorter, which allowed me to extend the bottom of the slide so the pliers head tucks fully within the handle.

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: gerleatherberman on July 09, 2019, 08:50:44 PM
Center-Drive Plus arrived today!  :woohoo:

Looks better in person. The stone-wash finish on the implements is nicely done, but a tiny bit cheap looking. But, the classic Gerber Satin finish makes the tool look pretty good. The leather sheath is really nice and has the pocket for the bit set.

OK, we know about the normal Center-Drive, but the main differences to the CD+(aside from the finish) are the scissors(replacing the SE blade from OG CD) and combo blade(replaces PE blade from OG CD). The CD+ also comes with the well-made leather sheath(made in the USA). Same bit set as the normal CD.

Scissors have a similar blade profile to the Diesel scissors, but with a much shorter handle. They work great on paper, thread, and other softer materials. Anything thicker, like cardboard, is a thumb-bruiser.  :ahhh

Though, with that said, they are still a better implement to have than the small SE blade. The combo blade is done quite well.

PICS!

*The other CDs came to welcome the CD+*

(https://i.imgur.com/t1ldLY6.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/PCtR3Zr.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/DHh5DfQ.jpg)

Center-Drive Plus photos.

(https://i.imgur.com/im09RUj.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/TBXi1Wl.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/B1PLcUP.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/FIYP2sT.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/nuSF25d.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/ypWcoJj.jpg)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on July 09, 2019, 09:14:54 PM
I ended up really needing that saw blade that I put in my CD. Had to modify an auto fuse box and cut a slot so a wire could exit the box without being pinched. My girlfriend’s car started overheating in heavy traffic. Radiator fans wouldn’t come on. Stopped at advance and got a piggyback fuse holder, and I used the CD to crimp some connectors on to make a bypass.  Either the relay is bad or the thermostatic switch is bad, or some bit of electrical voodoo is broken. Wired the fan to the high beam circuit, and that got us home in rush hour traffic on a 100 degree day.

The cd crimped connectors, cut wire, and the saw made a small slot in the fuse box for the wire to exit. The only thing the CD didn’t do well was strip wire. The replaceable cutters just aren’t good for anything precise. I broke out my SAK for that.

Overall I’m really liking carrying the CD as my EDC. It has some trade offs though so sometimes I still swap it for my blunt nosed bladeless MP600

Charles.
Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: gerleatherberman on July 10, 2019, 12:00:26 AM
Oh snap. Looking at Gerber's date codes, seems as though I ended up with Center-Drives from 2017, 2018, and 2019.  :)

(http://i.imgur.com/IOL7ejZ.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/SZhGawJ.jpg)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on July 10, 2019, 12:36:05 AM
Where is that date code info? I’m curious what it tells me about mine. It has the same number on the blade: “0871118B”

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Top-Gear-24 on July 10, 2019, 12:44:15 AM
Where is that date code info? I’m curious what it tells me about mine. It has the same number on the blade: “0871118B”

Charles.

Was wondering how the date codes worked myself, one of my CD's has the same 0870217A code behind the bit driver (haven't opened the other one yet).
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: gerleatherberman on July 10, 2019, 12:52:40 AM
The last two numbers are the year produced. I am not entirely certain of the other numbers(or letter suffix) or how the newer code works.  :ahhh

This thread has a little bit of information about it. Looks like 087 is common to a lot of sliding pliers tools.

https://forum.multitool.org/index.php?topic=57132.0

So it looks like the OG CD I have was made Feb 2017, the BO CD was made in November 2018, and the CD+ dropped the month indicator to just indicate the year(2019 in this case).
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: LotsOfCoffee on July 13, 2019, 08:23:09 PM
Just got myself a CDplus. Really solid tool and got it from the Gerber website. The only thing is the driver wiggles left right and front and back. Doesn’t twist or anything. Does anyone’s else's do that or do I need to call Gerber?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ezdog on July 13, 2019, 08:56:51 PM
Why exactly is there an RCA Paracorded to your CD?

Oh somehow I forgot the pic. Here it is.

I thought the scissors could be modified to fit, but there is really no way. It wasn’t clear from the photos until I had some scissors out of the tool, but the distance between the tool pivot and the scissors blade pivot is greater on the CD scissors than on the mp600. It’s not just a shorter handle, the tool itself is longer.

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: gerleatherberman on July 13, 2019, 09:00:22 PM
Just got myself a CDplus. Really solid tool and got it from the Gerber website. The only thing is the driver wiggles left right and front and back. Doesn’t twist or anything. Does anyone’s else's do that or do I need to call Gerber?
Is it the whole driver implement or the bit within the end that wobbles?

If it is the implement itself, more than a hair of play is not normal. Hope that helps. :tu:

Welcome to MT.o! :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: LotsOfCoffee on July 13, 2019, 09:45:44 PM
Is it the whole driver implement or the bit within the end that wobbles?

If it is the implement itself, more than a hair of play is not normal. Hope that helps. :tu:

Welcome to MT.o! :cheers:

It’s the whole implement. The bit holds tight. I’ll give Gerber a call. Is there a special tool to work with this bolts?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Top-Gear-24 on July 13, 2019, 09:51:26 PM
It’s the whole implement. The bit holds tight. I’ll give Gerber a call. Is there a special tool to work with this bolts?

That doesn't sound right  :-\.

On my regular CenterDrive the bit driver has no play whatsoever.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: LotsOfCoffee on July 13, 2019, 10:01:52 PM
That doesn't sound right  :-\.

On my regular CenterDrive the bit driver has no play whatsoever.

It’s a bummer cause it’s the only thing that seems wrong. Pliers line up great and everything is seems in good order. It honestly looks like maybe a washer wasn’t put it. The knife has one on the inside side. The driver doesn’t. I hate to have to get an exchange  :cry:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Top-Gear-24 on July 13, 2019, 10:09:23 PM
It’s a bummer cause it’s the only thing that seems wrong. Pliers line up great and everything is seems in good order. It honestly looks like maybe a washer wasn’t put it. The knife has one on the inside side. The driver doesn’t. I hate to have to get an exchange  :cry:

My eyesight most be deteriorating, because I can't make out a washer on either one of them ...  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: gerleatherberman on July 14, 2019, 12:08:16 AM
Just checked the three CDs in the collection and none of them have any side-to-side or front-to-back motion.
If the bolt is loose, it could be causing both types of play. But, as far as tightening, the only tool I know made for it is this.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Lite-wrenches-for-parse-some-Gerber-Old-SOG-Tools/293031130444?hash=item443a04354c:g:dNAAAOSw4qxaorN7

His tools are top-notch(many of us on MT.o have the Leatherman wrenches), but shipping from Russia takes a week or two.
Even if you do send the tool back to Gerber, it wouldn't hurt to have a set to do maintenance in the future. :)

If the play is minimal, it may be worth waiting until you get the wrenches, if you decide to get a set.

That reminds me, need to order a set myself. Getting a little tired of scratching up Gerber screw heads. :facepalm:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: LotsOfCoffee on July 14, 2019, 04:19:57 AM
Just checked the three CDs in the collection and none of them have any side-to-side or front-to-back motion.
If the bolt is loose, it could be causing both types of play. But, as far as tightening, the only tool I know made for it is this.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Lite-wrenches-for-parse-some-Gerber-Old-SOG-Tools/293031130444?hash=item443a04354c:g:dNAAAOSw4qxaorN7

His tools are top-notch(many of us on MT.o have the Leatherman wrenches), but shipping from Russia takes a week or two.
Even if you do send the tool back to Gerber, it wouldn't hurt to have a set to do maintenance in the future. :)

If the play is minimal, it may be worth waiting until you get the wrenches, if you decide to get a set.

That reminds me, need to order a set myself. Getting a little tired of scratching up Gerber screw heads. :facepalm:

Thank you for the tool link! Can’t seem to find it when I google it. I’m thinking that might be all it needs. It’s like a mm of movement both ways. I tried turning it with a small set of pliers but I didn’t want to mess up the screw heads.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: LotsOfCoffee on July 14, 2019, 04:33:14 AM
Just thought I would share that it was the bolt. I found out my channel lock teach fit real nicely into the grooves. Just took my time getting them in place and a few turns good as gold.

Thank you everyone!!!  :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: gerleatherberman on July 14, 2019, 05:01:22 AM
Thank you for the tool link! Can’t seem to find it when I google it. I’m thinking that might be all it needs. It’s like a mm of movement both ways. I tried turning it with a small set of pliers but I didn’t want to mess up the screw heads.
You're certainly welcome. :cheers:

Just thought I would share that it was the bolt. I found out my channel lock teach fit real nicely into the grooves. Just took my time getting them in place and a few turns good as gold.

Thank you everyone!!!  :cheers:

 :woohoo:
That is awesome. Cost of shipping and waiting 2-4 weeks avoided! :like:

If it isn't any bother, it wouldn't hurt to shoot Gerber an email explaining what you had to do though. The CD seems to be very consistent in quality, and it would be a shame if Gerber let the QC slip on them. :ahhh
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on July 18, 2019, 11:22:07 PM
I really love the pry tool in the CD. It works great on removing staples from upholstered chairs. Refinishing the wood arms on some mid century modern chairs, and the pry tool made short work of the staples without tearing up the vinyl. I used a screwdriver previously and this was night and day better!  It’s also a good bottle opener and a fair can opener.

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Mechanickal on August 11, 2019, 04:36:32 PM
So my Center-drive arrived yesterday.

First impressions:

No bit kit with mine... Too bad, but not the end of the world.

Decently built, but doesn't feel like a LM or Vic.

The engineering that went into it is impressive!

I also noticed the holes in the sides of the bit holder. Which MUST be there for easy cleaning with compressed air... Genious!!

No way this is going into the pockets. Belt or bag carry only.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190811/e2d6dbb1e491e778dc32e44e0dc2bfae.jpg)

It's well worth the €70 discount price, but not the €140 it retails for.

All in all a cool looking, decent tool, feels capable but because of the Kalashnikov principle (tolerance allows for smooth operation) it feels less finished, even though it's got a way better finish than the feel of the tool implies.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: gerleatherberman on August 11, 2019, 09:37:29 PM
 :like:
Congrats on finally getting the CD, Nick! :woohoo:

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Mechanickal on August 11, 2019, 10:24:07 PM
Thanks!
:hatsoff:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Top-Gear-24 on August 12, 2019, 11:52:18 AM
Congrats on the CD Nick  :cheers:.

And indeed, no bitkit with the ones at Bever/A.S.Adventure, but the sheath has room for a bitkit and you can just use any bitholder that fits in the sheath.  My toolbox had two red plastic bitholders which hold 10 bits each, and one of those fits perfect in the sheath.  So an easy (and cheap) fix to get the most out of the CD.

By the way, have you seen the beautiful leather sheath Gerber made for the CD plus ... ?  :pok:

(https://i.imgur.com/BAvYzo2.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/umxI0mA.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/yvRbfba.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/rFQfBPv.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/u2ZSrJ0.jpg)

Best "value for your money" sheath I've seen in a long time, just pointing them out, that's all ...  :whistle:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Ivo on August 12, 2019, 01:37:47 PM
WOW these are awesome TG  :drool: :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Mechanickal on August 12, 2019, 08:56:55 PM
Yes, I've seen them...
But at €22 excl shipping, I've decided to give it a go like this first.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Top-Gear-24 on August 12, 2019, 10:42:57 PM
Yes, I've seen them...
But at €22 excl shipping, I've decided to give it a go like this first.

When you order 3 you get free shipping...  :whistle:

(https://i.imgur.com/u2ZSrJ0.jpg)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: chip on August 12, 2019, 11:13:18 PM
When you order 3 you get free shipping...  :whistle:

(https://i.imgur.com/u2ZSrJ0.jpg)

Those are beauties, not often I say that to a man.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: parnass on August 14, 2019, 02:39:51 AM
I am trying to reconcile the complaints on Amazon.com about problems with the Center Drive Plus leather case with the praise I read in other venues.

https://www.amazon.com/Gerber-Center-Drive-Plus-Multi-Tool-30-001417/product-reviews/B07P56HJLX/ref=cm_cr_dp_d_show_all_top?ie=UTF8&reviewerType=all_reviews (https://www.amazon.com/Gerber-Center-Drive-Plus-Multi-Tool-30-001417/product-reviews/B07P56HJLX/ref=cm_cr_dp_d_show_all_top?ie=UTF8&reviewerType=all_reviews)

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: JonesE on August 14, 2019, 05:35:59 AM
I am trying to reconcile the complaints on Amazon.com about problems with the Center Drive Plus leather case with the praise I read in other venues.

Hi Parma’s, I read through the comments on Amazon that you linked. Seem the issue raised is with the snap not being secure to the sheath. I have had this happen to me where the snap comes off so it is not limited to just this sheath. I am planning on eventually getting around to buying one of these sheaths. I will check the snap and make sure that the center rivet that holds the snap on is correctly folded over. If not it is an easy fix with just peeling it over with a hammer and punch. I get the frustration with buying something and having an issue. To me this just does not sound like a big deal.

JonesE
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: gerleatherberman on August 14, 2019, 09:07:43 PM
 :iagree:

Shame the snaps are getting a bad reputation. Will look closely at the attachment of the snap on mine this evening. :)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on August 15, 2019, 06:32:44 AM
Why exactly is there an RCA Paracorded to your CD?

Because I thought all the skull beads on paracord lanyards were hokey and stupid. Plus I’m a big fan of vintage audio equipment. I put a “bead” on that had meaning to me.

Plus if I find a bad patch cable I can fix it on the spot! :)

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: belshi on August 26, 2019, 01:17:23 AM
Center Drive is 79.oo + tax at Walmart 
 :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ezdog on August 26, 2019, 01:06:01 PM
Because I thought all the skull beads on paracord lanyards were hokey and stupid. Plus I’m a big fan of vintage audio equipment. I put a “bead” on that had meaning to me.

Plus if I find a bad patch cable I can fix it on the spot! :)

Charles.

Sorry it took me so long to see this reply!

Same here but I did not imagine that there were 2 of us?

I have a 1/4" Mono Plug on one ring myself!
Monster Cable used to give them to dealers and the ring is a small loop of Monster Cable,I need to get a pic of it here.

Thanks :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on September 03, 2019, 08:51:33 PM
Here's a new one!  Orthopedic Dr used my Center Drive to fit a brace on my wife today!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Mechanickal on September 03, 2019, 08:52:50 PM
Building a Cyborg! :ahhh
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Mechanickal on September 03, 2019, 08:53:34 PM
Seriously though, I hope she's ok?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on September 03, 2019, 09:01:58 PM
Thanks Mech!  Dislocated Hip that she's currently undergoing therapy.  She said she feels like a Cyborg! :rofl:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Mechanickal on September 03, 2019, 09:28:33 PM
Sounds awfully painfull :/

Wish her a fast recovery from me! :salute:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on September 04, 2019, 03:03:52 AM
 :salute: Thank you my friend!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on September 10, 2019, 12:08:11 AM
Went for a bike ride today, and thought the CD might come in handy :multi:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on September 10, 2019, 02:07:04 AM
Beautiful day for a ride!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Happy Gilmore on September 18, 2019, 01:46:37 AM
I'll be joining because CD is really cheap atm. With full gun kit no less!

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F352779024000
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on September 18, 2019, 02:12:49 AM
Nice!! :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: gerleatherberman on September 18, 2019, 03:52:53 AM
I'll be joining because CD is really cheap atm. With full gun kit no less!

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F352779024000

That kit is awesome! :like:

I use the lens stuff on my camera all the time. The oil it comes with is good too. The black red-light Maglite is cool too. :)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ezdog on September 18, 2019, 02:37:12 PM
I'll be joining because CD is really cheap atm. With full gun kit no less!

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F352779024000
I got one of these too for the Black CD which is my second CD now!
Great Kit all around.

But beware that there are evidently 2 of these kits on Ebay that are slightly different too and the one that I received has a different Bit Holder strip for the bits that will not ride in the tool and mine is not really practical for pocket carry either.
I could not even see the holder strip from the pics that you link to either.

Had I known this in advance I likely would have chosen the other one if it comes with the same Bit Strip as the retail CD did.
My original strip has not lasted and I need a new one which makes this unknown even worse in my case.

Hope that makes sense or is not a factor for you.

Edit:OK so I actually read the description and this set does not include the bit strip anyway?
Nevermind.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Mechanickal on September 20, 2019, 10:41:05 PM
Used the CD during work this week.
Love the OHO pliers, but miss a large toolset.
So ended up carrying my Spirit on the other side of my belt in a Skinth.

Also found out that the CD can't cut alarm cables, whereas the Spirit can (with it's way smaller wire cutters) in 2 cuts.

So all in all a true workhorse tool, but not really suitable for my trade.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on September 20, 2019, 10:59:38 PM
I agree Mech.  I'm not sure what trade Gerber was aiming at, carpentry or mechanic?  Mine is used around the house for DIY stuff, but my son used his in carpentry and loved it.  Then again, he loves his Spirit too!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ezdog on September 21, 2019, 02:16:11 PM
Used the CD during work this week.
Love the OHO pliers, but miss a large toolset.
So ended up carrying my Spirit on the other side of my belt in a Skinth.

Also found out that the CD can't cut alarm cables, whereas the Spirit can (with it's way smaller wire cutters) in 2 cuts.

So all in all a true workhorse tool, but not really suitable for my trade.

I have to wonder exactly what "Alarm Wire" means in your part of the World?
I have no issues with Quad Wire,UL Fire Cable,Zip Cords,Speaker Wire and most LV cable every day.
Co-Ax can be too thick to cut in one pass as well as some huge speaker cables but I usually get it done if needed too.

It would not surprise me that these are not what you mean and that w just label them differently but LV cable is easy for my CD.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Mechanickal on September 21, 2019, 03:13:03 PM
I have to wonder exactly what "Alarm Wire" means in your part of the World?
I have no issues with Quad Wire,UL Fire Cable,Zip Cords,Speaker Wire and most LV cable every day.
Co-Ax can be too thick to cut in one pass as well as some huge speaker cables but I usually get it done if needed too.

It would not surprise me that these are not what you mean and that w just label them differently but LV cable is easy for my CD.
I tried it on a 2x0.75+4x0.22 shielded cable.
It just pinched the insulation, but didn't even cut through that :shrug:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ladder5 on September 22, 2019, 12:22:08 AM
Newbie here :salute: have modded my cd to take mp600 scissors, don't know if it's been done before? Thinking of modding the file next ( partly serrated,chisel end) as the serrated blade file groove being on the inside is eating away at me!
 :facepalm:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on September 22, 2019, 02:12:45 AM
Nice job!  It's great to see this thread active again.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Rapidray on September 22, 2019, 03:19:27 AM
Nice mod  :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Happy Gilmore on September 23, 2019, 03:32:50 AM
I tried it on a 2x0.75+4x0.22 shielded cable.
It just pinched the insulation, but didn't even cut through that :shrug:

I think I figured out why. The bit carrier prevents the handle from being closed far enough to properly cut cable. You need to extend the bit holder to get leverage. It's a design flaw.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2ub3siH8WA/?igshid=19h47susggsqe

Describe it in this post. Video #3
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on October 07, 2019, 06:01:42 PM
Bit carrier also prevents squeezign the pliers hard enough to remove foil or plastic seal that's under the cap on ketchup, iced coffee, hummus, yogurt, etc. Have to flip it out first, or grab an MP600 instead. Some of those stupid seals are impossible to remove with fingers.

As for the cutters... none of the Gerber replaceable cutters are worth a damn. There's too much tolerance, and they can't cut stranded wire well at all. I much prefer the non-replaceable cutters for that reason.

That said, I just buggered the cutters on my favorite MP600 by cutting a motorcycle throttle cable outer sheath. D'oh. I should have used the carbide cutters for that. Now that MP600 sticks closed. I'm going to have to hit it with a dremel to restore the cutter. The thing about the MP600 non-replaceable cutters though... they can be mangled pretty badly, and will still cut even the thinnest stranded wire. It's all about machining tolerances and lack of play in the plier head.

I love the mod for removing the lanyard loop on the CD. That's a great idea.... but how did you do it?  That looks OEM, not like it was machined or modified.

I went with a Pro Scout saw blade holder in my CD, and have gotten a bit of use out of it as well. Scissors would maybe be better for an EDC carry, but I really like having that saw at my disposal.

Also, I'm finding my most used tool in the CD is that little pry tool. That thing is the bomb. Seriously a great idea for a tool. And it works as a good bottle opener and a passable (barely) can opener.

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ReamerPunch on October 07, 2019, 07:24:05 PM
Newbie here :salute: have modded my cd to take mp600 scissors, don't know if it's been done before? Thinking of modding the file next ( partly serrated,chisel end) as the serrated blade file groove being on the inside is eating away at me!
 :facepalm:

That looks perfect!  :o
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MrMckay on October 16, 2019, 04:20:32 PM
Just joined ;)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191016/39cf499c35beebb1f17d584f7bb19791.jpg)

Sent from my SM-G960F using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on October 16, 2019, 04:27:30 PM
Welcome aboard Mr McKay!  Glad to have you.  I've had great luck with mine, and it's typically my go to tool. 
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Aloha on October 16, 2019, 04:38:23 PM
Nice to see the CD is still being picked up.  I did wonder if the hoopla was over. 
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Rapidray on October 16, 2019, 08:20:44 PM
Just joined ;)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191016/39cf499c35beebb1f17d584f7bb19791.jpg)

Sent from my SM-G960F using Tapatalk
Nice - I like
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: The Lone Wanderer on October 20, 2019, 08:35:45 PM
I've still been carrying mine in a RAE Gear sheath which is a huge improvement over the stock sheath. As far as the bits go, those sit in a repurposed Opinel sheath with a Nite Ize pocket clip and a Vic Classic, I'll have to post pictures in the future. Sorry for my absence I started a new job in February and although its a great job and I love my work between commuting times I usually work 12 hour days which is draining to say the least.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on October 20, 2019, 08:40:39 PM
I completely understand that LW. I've been doing the same thing for a year and a half and it doesn't leave much time for anything else.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: rdub934 on November 22, 2019, 04:39:59 PM
Hi, folks! I still carry and use my CD a lot. Since getting home from Turkey, the Wifey has had me helping her finish the perimeter fence of our 5 acers here in central Arkansas. I had a heavy-duty tool showdown to see which I preferred for "farm" work. I won a Supertool 300 at a flight BBQ in Turkey and wanted to see what all the hoopla was about. I can say for certain, the LM is a beast, but for some reason, it didn't handle the fence-clips very well. And it was fiddly getting to the implements with gloves on. Conversely, the CD was a pleasure. And the one hand access pliers, knife and driver won out for my preferences. And after a few hard weeks, the plier jaws look the part of a hard use, heavy duty tool.

At any rate, I'm glad to see Gerber expanding the CD line a bit. I love the blacked out version, and I'm excited they've offered a version with scissors and a combo blade. I hope they keep building on it ie BN, bladeless, etc... What would everyone else like to see next from the CD line?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on November 22, 2019, 05:02:56 PM
The CD really is a great tool!  I'd love to substitute a saw for the serrated blade.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on December 22, 2019, 10:10:58 PM
Does anyone know gerber’s policy on repairing modded tools? Or military spec tools bought new from third parties?

I broke the tip of my nail puller tool and I’d like to have it repaired, but my CD has a clip and I’ve swapped a saw holder from a pro scout in place of the serrated blade and awl.

Would they still fix it? Or am I SOL?

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on January 23, 2020, 10:00:02 PM
Broke out my trusty Center Drive for vent cleaning duty on the Domestic front :D
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Rapidray on January 24, 2020, 01:59:01 AM
Broke out my trusty Center Drive for vent cleaning duty on the Domestic front :D
Nice usage!  :like: :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: SirVicaLot on January 24, 2020, 02:03:15 AM
 :iagree: :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on January 24, 2020, 03:03:14 AM
 :cheers: Thanks Ray!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Scott Plaster on February 09, 2020, 08:42:31 PM
Hello, here is my Centerdrive, with a couple of changes to work a little better for me. The last picture is without the pocket clip on it. The clip and scissors are from an old gerber suspension and I filed holes on the slide so it would lock closed. I use it as a screwdriver more than a pliers so it was helpful to have it lock closed.
 I am an FEC technician and some days I wear a pullover sweater so the gerber can go into my pocket with the clip and on days I do not wear the pullover, I remove the clip and put it in a sheath on my belt.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on February 09, 2020, 11:26:45 PM
Nice mods Scott and welcome aboard!  The Center Drive covers pretty much any situation you might encounter on a job site.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Hevy (CT-782) on February 09, 2020, 11:38:03 PM
Nice Centerdrive!

Welcome aboard!

Enviado de meu moto g(6) usando o Tapatalk

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Juan el Boricua on February 10, 2020, 12:26:18 AM
Nice mods, Scott; the clip in particular must make it a lot more accessible.  :like:
Gerber, are you watching?! THIS is how it should come from the factory!
 :pok:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on February 10, 2020, 12:31:42 AM
 :iagree:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Rapidray on February 10, 2020, 04:29:40 AM
 :iagree: X2
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ddogu on February 10, 2020, 07:31:46 AM
Thanks to Kev (again) I've been able to examine a Centre Drive close up. I did a follow up post on the SOG PowerAccess and Syncs after I got to examine those close up, and now I can do the same with the Centre Drive.

Firstly the pliers. Kev said that he didn't think they looked very strong, but a side-by-side comparison with the Diesel showed that the construction looked solid enough for general use. I still think that the hollow spring opening construction and indexable inserts are a bad idea. These ruin what could have been a versatile and durable plier design for the reasons highlighted before. Also, the way the Centre Drive is put together, the plier heads cannot be readilly swapped with the far superior ones of the Diesel or MP600.

Secondly, the driver itself. This looks weak. I think if people start using these on heavier duty jobs such as rusted screws, we are going to be seeing broken drivers. Kev and I both agreed where the fracture point was likely to be on this. It is also LESS central (when considering both axes) than the Balance.

Cast pry tool - I still struggle to comprehend that professional tool makers would design such a thing. It's ugly, bulky, and I have no confidence in its durability. Something make from rolled plate would be stronger and thinner, leaving space for another function.

Overall, a heavier duty version of the Balance with full 1/4" hex capability would have made for a better tool. The Centre Drive is a nice looking tool, but genuinely strikes me as being less dependable for hard use than the MP600 and Diesel.

Kev, sorry to slate another of your tools buddy, and I hope it serves you better than I am anticipating. :salute: Gerber still maintains a place in my tool array with the Balance, MP400, 600, and Diesel, but the Center Drive will not be on my shopping list at any point.

 :iagree:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on April 05, 2020, 03:43:05 AM
Bump!  What are all those Center Drives doing out there?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: zoidberg on April 05, 2020, 03:45:48 AM
Bump!  What are all those Center Drives doing out there?

I've been using mine...       just never get any pics.   :facepalm:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on April 05, 2020, 03:57:50 AM
Same here Zoid.  I had to break mine out and use one of the Allen head bits to assemble my wife's swing the other day.  There's times that the Center Drive is the best tool I have.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Mechanickal on April 05, 2020, 11:27:09 AM
Your wife's... Swing?


Nevermind...
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on April 05, 2020, 03:32:11 PM
 :rofl:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: 43north89west on April 14, 2020, 10:48:50 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/F4QiKCE.jpg)


Here is my just about EDC workhorse of choice for the past 9 months, a Center Drive Plus, carried in a RAE Gear sheath/holster. It replaced my previous EDC beast, a Leatherman Surge, which served me well for a couple of years before defenestrating itself from my pocket due to a wonky clip at a soccer park  :oops: . It took a bit of adjustment going from the classic butterfly-style of the Surge to the sliding OHO of the CD, but I've come to love it. I initially was concerned about the relatively limited toolset on the CD compared to the Surge, but that's kind of the point of the tool - do a few things really well. I found that tools I used the most on the Surge were, in rough order: plain-edged blade, bit driver, pliers, cap lifter, scissors, file, large flat driver (mostly as a scraper), serrated blade...and everything else very rarely. The Center Drive's...uhh...centered driver was what tipped the scales into trying the CD over simply replacing the Surge. I knew I'd miss the scissors probably the most from the Surge which is what drove me towards the CD+.


So far I haven't really regretted the decision at all. I do wish the fit and finish was a bit tighter on the Gerber (particularly in the plier head), but it ultimately hasn't effected the tool's functionality appreciably. My pliers are ever-so-slightly misaligned at the needle-nose, but I don't do much precision work that would suffer from this. The weird quirk of the extra bit holder preventing the user from really getting a tight grip at the tip is another unfortunate flaw, but again, doesn't effect my use much.


The scissors aren't anything to write home about (a little disappointing given Gerber's parent company) and I wish they would have provided a little nub or platform to prevent it from digging into your thumb on tougher materials, but they work well enough for snipping loose threads or quick paper trimming jobs.


The cap lifter/pry tool is an improvement over the Surge's combo can/bottle opener which always struggled to find purchase on a bottle cap. I haven't used the pry feature a ton, but it works great on small staples.


I took the inspiration of someone on this board during my lurking days (apologies for not remembering who) and sanded down the end of the file into a scraping tool which I've used quite a bit on errant caulk, grout, or dried-on food from my gaggle of children on just about every flat surface of my home. In a perfect world, the single cut side would be replaced with a diamond coating, but the cross-cut side is nice and aggressive for rougher jobs.


I haven't found a chance to use the awl yet, but holy hell is it sharp!


The biggest thing I missed initially was a pocket clip option. As someone crazy enough to prefer pocket clip carry for my old Surge, and averse to a bulky nylon/leather pouch on my belt I again took inspiration from someone here (maybe the same person) and tried the Nite-Ize HipClip. I tried the included adhesive strip but found that it started moving around after a week or two and eventually failed entirely. I then tried a two-part metal epoxy approach that worked for a few months until I dropped the tool and it shattered right off. I tried reapplying it and a few weeks later it popped loose in my pocket. Gun shy from my bad luck losing a Skeletool and the aforementioned Surge to pocket clip calamities, I knew I needed a better solution. I settled on the RAE Gear tactical sheath due to its inconspicuous design and lack of velcro/snaps/flaps. It also has a cool feature where if you pull the tool straight out of the sheath, the frame has a cutout that catches the locking slide on the CD and deploys the pliers as you pull. If you give the tool a slight twist as you pull it out, the pliers stay in place. Pretty clever. There are times where I still lament the lack of pocket clip for a more discrete carry as the RAE sheath's metal frame has occasionally snagged on clothing or scraped up against things. I'm tempted to look into the clip mod I saw above as an option.


Overall I'm pretty happy with the CD+ and find myself flicking the pliers open as a fidget all the time. It's a nice outlet for all the tension/nervous energy I'm sure a lot of us are feeling right now :ahhh . So anyway, this is my Center Drive(+). There are many like it, but this one is mine.  :multi:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on April 15, 2020, 12:06:42 AM
They're put together like a GI 45, but they definitely get the job done.  I love mine!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on April 25, 2020, 12:28:08 PM
 :2tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: cat2024 on July 23, 2020, 07:50:41 PM
New to the Center Drive club. I'm coming from a Leatherman OHT I used for years to my newly acquired CD. I got a smoking deal on it new. I'm curious where to find scissors for it to replace the serrated knife. Also, is there a special tool to take it apart?

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Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on July 24, 2020, 04:14:37 PM
Only the center drive scissors will fit the center drive, unfortunately. There are some scissors from outside-opening tools like the that can be modified to fit (the mp800 I think?). I replaced the serrated blade and awl with a remgrit saw holder, and have been quite happy with that setup.

Also be careful with the pry tool, it's not as robust as you hope it will be.

You can get tools to take it apart, but I find a file set of needle nosed gripped tightly in the indentations works fine. Hit it with a torch for a few seconds to loosen the locktite - but be careful not to melt the unlock slider.

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Berserker26 on August 10, 2020, 02:08:17 AM
Hi All am new to the forum and new to the MultiTool game. Picked up a CD yesterday and the thing is massive and awesome. The last MT I had was years ago, maybe 15, that my parents gave me and was a really small pocket knife I think by Victorinox so this CD is a huge upgrade. Am loving the pictures you are all posting too. I had 2 questions maybe other users could answer?


1 - How does everybody sharpen their MT Blade? Is there a simple/cheap solution that is like a tool you just run it through rather than putting on a wetstone/grinder?
2 - My Pliers don't fully close unless I unfold the extra bit holder out. Is this normal? It feels like it shouldn't be normal, thought I would ask before taking it back to the shop.


Thanks! I will take photo's soon!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: WoodsDuck on August 10, 2020, 04:42:15 PM
Hi All am new to the forum and new to the MultiTool game. Picked up a CD yesterday and the thing is massive and awesome. The last MT I had was years ago, maybe 15, that my parents gave me and was a really small pocket knife I think by Victorinox so this CD is a huge upgrade. Am loving the pictures you are all posting too. I had 2 questions maybe other users could answer?


1 - How does everybody sharpen their MT Blade? Is there a simple/cheap solution that is like a tool you just run it through rather than putting on a wetstone/grinder?
2 - My Pliers don't fully close unless I unfold the extra bit holder out. Is this normal? It feels like it shouldn't be normal, thought I would ask before taking it back to the shop.


Thanks! I will take photo's soon!

That thing with the pliers sounds like a quality control failure. I'd probably go ahead and get an exchange.
As for sharpening, one of the easiest and most effective systems that doesn't cost a fortune is a Lansky turnbox. Pull-through sharpeners are terrible and I'd never recommend one. The turnbox only requires a tiny bit more skill and doesn't ruin your blades. Plus they're available for $15-20.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on August 10, 2020, 09:08:02 PM
 :iagree:. Gerber is generally very quick to replace tools.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Berserker26 on August 11, 2020, 05:02:51 AM
That thing with the pliers sounds like a quality control failure. I'd probably go ahead and get an exchange.
As for sharpening, one of the easiest and most effective systems that doesn't cost a fortune is a Lansky turnbox. Pull-through sharpeners are terrible and I'd never recommend one. The turnbox only requires a tiny bit more skill and doesn't ruin your blades. Plus they're available for $15-20.


Thanks very much for your help - I was looking through the previous posts and it seems that some other users had the pliers issue, one guy above had posted a video of his as well. I thought it might have been a 'design flaw'. Having said that you and the post below yours elude to it being a fault, so perhaps I'll take it back and get another.


Good to know about that sharpening device, I will go watch some video's on it now :-)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Berserker26 on August 12, 2020, 02:37:46 AM
Well it was short lived friends :-(


As can see above I took my CD back into the shop yesterday and they confirmed it didn't look right, the pliers do not close until you pull out the bit holder. They went and got me another one and we opened it before I went home with it, the pliers did close but they didn't line up. The top piece closes down off-centre to the bottom piece by a few mm. The tool guy at the shop says 'well that's not right...how much are these??' I said $160. He said for that price they'd want to be perfect. So he goes and gets a third pair, opens them and the plier head was more offline than the previous pair....they didn't have any more there to check so I've decided to give them back and get a refund


FML


So now I'm in an annoying spot. This thing has the tools I want and I love the look of it, but the QC is just no good and I'm a bit worried about trying to get another one because now my opinion of them is so soured that I don't know if I could.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Antti Lammi on August 12, 2020, 10:27:56 AM
Well it was short lived friends :-(


As can see above I took my CD back into the shop yesterday and they confirmed it didn't look right, the pliers do not close until you pull out the bit holder. They went and got me another one and we opened it before I went home with it, the pliers did close but they didn't line up. The top piece closes down off-centre to the bottom piece by a few mm. The tool guy at the shop says 'well that's not right...how much are these??' I said $160. He said for that price they'd want to be perfect. So he goes and gets a third pair, opens them and the plier head was more offline than the previous pair....they didn't have any more there to check so I've decided to give them back and get a refund


FML


So now I'm in an annoying spot. This thing has the tools I want and I love the look of it, but the QC is just no good and I'm a bit worried about trying to get another one because now my opinion of them is so soured that I don't know if I could.
You should try find one in ebay or other similar place to get it much cheaper. Only bad thing about CD is cutters. Otherwise tool is great, tolerances arent best but while it works better on dirty jobs than other tools higher tolerances.


Only Tools Matters
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: cat2024 on August 12, 2020, 02:11:40 PM
You should try find one in ebay or other similar place to get it much cheaper. Only bad thing about CD is cutters. Otherwise tool is great, tolerances arent best but while it works better on dirty jobs than other tools higher tolerances.


Only Tools Matters
Yes I snagged my CD for 45$ new on eBay. My pliers are offset to but not a big deal on a 45$ tool. They are accurate enough and I love the tool so far.

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Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on August 15, 2020, 02:24:52 AM
 :iagree:. When they first came out it was tough to find them, but not so now.  Jump on the Bay and pick up a good one for a good price.  They're terrific tools.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MTSebastian on August 15, 2020, 09:50:19 PM
As of today I am also the proud owner of a CD.  It's a very different feeling than an MP600 or a Leatherman. 
I have to honestly say, I like it very much! The spring loading of the pliers is simply easier to handle for me. 
Now I'm still thinking about installing the T-Shaft mount from the MP600. 
Let's see (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200815/06cbcc528e9855d269114f0531a1a9c8.jpg)

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Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on August 15, 2020, 10:52:45 PM
Congrats!!  :like: :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Juan el Boricua on August 16, 2020, 12:30:59 AM
Quote from: MTSebastian link=topic=71930.msg2153914#msg2153914 [b
[/b]date=1597521019]
As of today I am also the proud owner of a CD. It's a very different feeling than an MP600 or a Leatherman. 
I have to honestly say, I like it very much! The spring loading of the pliers is simply easier to handle for me. 
Now I'm still thinking about installing the T-Shaft mount from the MP600. 
Let's see (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200815/06cbcc528e9855d269114f0531a1a9c8.jpg)

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Congrats on your newest acquisition  :tu: and...
... DO IT!!!!!   >:D :pok:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MTSebastian on August 23, 2020, 05:59:34 PM
Sunday work in process
Done quickly and works great (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200823/d0e6e9de0e725c97d5bd742e791d9f95.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200823/9276f5d69bb37e481c90cd914b054223.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200823/76d59aee22acf81505fcd051128ef544.jpg)

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Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on August 23, 2020, 06:57:26 PM
 :like:  :tu: :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Juan el Boricua on August 23, 2020, 11:59:44 PM
Sunday work in process
Done quickly and works great (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200823/d0e6e9de0e725c97d5bd742e791d9f95.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200823/9276f5d69bb37e481c90cd914b054223.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200823/76d59aee22acf81505fcd051128ef544.jpg)

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Nice, very nice; it appears to be one very practical and functional tool now! :tu: :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MTSebastian on September 02, 2020, 04:41:26 PM
A lot of work to do

Have a great and save day (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200902/d8dfe66c1dfd4bc7c920d3e0447eb813.jpg)

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Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: SirVicaLot on September 02, 2020, 07:26:50 PM
Great use!  :like:

Can‘t be long until I give in and get a CD  :D
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MTSebastian on September 02, 2020, 09:30:04 PM
Great use!  :like:

Can‘t be long until I give in and get a CD  :D
I haven't regretted buying one!
I would even prefer my CD and my MP600 to an LM IMO!

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Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MTSebastian on September 14, 2020, 06:35:15 AM
Is it normal that the pliers are a little bit open when it's closed? (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200914/0c3d2a98247ed8f660e47a57d9a74e71.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200914/823a32b7b07780afbd6bb5e2fa9697d2.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200914/998d2a9da5324f6572e9d4f30e398482.jpg)

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Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Mechanickal on September 14, 2020, 07:39:26 AM
It does that on mine too
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on September 14, 2020, 02:22:19 PM
Yes
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on September 14, 2020, 08:59:55 PM
Yarp, it's because the pliers are spring loaded.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MTSebastian on September 14, 2020, 09:11:08 PM
Okay
I thought it had an closed Position where the pliers are together.

Thx everyone

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Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: SirVicaLot on October 09, 2020, 03:11:35 AM
I just ordered a CD. Wanted to see how it compares to my modded MP600. If i like it, i might even integrate a lot of its tool implements into the CD  :popcorn:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MTSebastian on October 10, 2020, 10:21:40 AM
I just ordered a CD. Wanted to see how it compares to my modded MP600. If i like it, i might even integrate a lot of its tool implements into the CD  :popcorn:
The CD is like a good movie Lots of good stuff in it

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Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on October 10, 2020, 04:24:13 PM
I wished I would have had mine with me yesterday.  I could have put that bit driver to good use.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: SirVicaLot on October 10, 2020, 06:11:19 PM
I read through the 30 day challenge you did with it last year, seems like a great tool. Especially that bit driver got lots of use  :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on October 11, 2020, 12:30:46 AM
It really is, Sir V.  That bit driver alone is worth the cost of the tool.  More times than not, if I'm working on something I ask my son to go get the Center Drive.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: SirVicaLot on October 11, 2020, 02:11:12 AM
Looking forward to try it out. Should be coming in this week  :ahhh
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: SirVicaLot on October 16, 2020, 04:57:07 AM
The CD came in earlier this week  :mail:

Gotta agree with you, Barry. That bit driver is awesome! Used it plenty already  :tu:

(http://www.justbenphotography.com/img/s/v-10/p4017409370-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Top-Gear-24 on October 16, 2020, 07:06:01 AM
The CD came in earlier this week  :mail:

Gotta agree with you, Barry. That bit driver is awesome! Used it plenty already  :tu:

(http://www.justbenphotography.com/img/s/v-10/p4017409370-4.jpg)

Congrats on getting a CD, one of Gerber's finest tools in my opinion  :tu:.

And it does not only feel good in hand, it also looks good, as shown in your beautiful picture  :drool:.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Juan el Boricua on October 16, 2020, 01:23:16 PM
Congratulations on your new arrival, Sir.  :multi: :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on October 16, 2020, 01:51:55 PM
 :iagree: and beautiful pic buddy! 
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: SirVicaLot on October 16, 2020, 03:02:00 PM
Thanks, gents  :hatsoff: It is a good looking tool. That combination of stainless steel and BO is  :drool: :D
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Juan el Boricua on October 16, 2020, 03:30:03 PM
SirVic, you know you can do this, right?

https://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,71930.msg2155832.html#msg2155832

 :pok: :pok: :pok:
 :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: SirVicaLot on October 16, 2020, 03:53:50 PM
Yepp, I know  :D I modded it already, but decided against the saw holder for the time being. I replaced the scribe with an awl from a MP600 (like that one better) and replaced the serrated blade with scissors.

I had a hard time loosening the screws to do the mod. There was so much loctite on it, I messed up the screws head pretty good  :facepalm: Luckily the pivot and screw are the same as on the MP600, so I had spares  :D
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Juan el Boricua on October 16, 2020, 05:53:14 PM
 Glad to see you're not only enjoying it, but making it your own. Oooh, remember the MT.O way?:
:worthless:
 :pok: :pok:

(Naaah, just kiddin'! :tu:)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: SirVicaLot on October 16, 2020, 08:44:15 PM
You are right when you are right  :D Will upload a photo later  :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: SirVicaLot on October 17, 2020, 02:20:18 AM
Here you go:

(https://www.justbenphotography.com/img/s/v-10/p4018630741-4.jpg)

Used the scissors from a Suspension. They only work when the handles are open, but because of the spring loaded pliers this is not a big deal for me. The scissors from the MP's don't fit, and are not usable, unless you cut the handle.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Juan el Boricua on October 17, 2020, 03:08:24 AM
 :tu:  :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on October 17, 2020, 05:07:52 AM
 :iagree:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MTSebastian on October 19, 2020, 07:41:37 PM
Here you go:

(https://www.justbenphotography.com/img/s/v-10/p4018630741-4.jpg)

Used the scissors from a Suspension. They only work when the handles are open, but because of the spring loaded pliers this is not a big deal for me. The scissors from the MP's don't fit, and are not usable, unless you cut the handle.
I noticed that on the weekend too.  Unfortunately!  I've tried both.  Once the suspension and the MP.  I didn't want to edit the slider.  Not that it doesn't fit after all.  Let's see what solutions there will be in the future ... But the CD + scissors are not an option for me

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Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: SirVicaLot on October 20, 2020, 01:28:15 AM
It is tricky to add later, that’s for sure. You might have to get the CD plus that has the scissors already  :dunno:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: chip on October 20, 2020, 02:26:51 AM
I keep looking a CDs but I can’t live without a pocket clip.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: SirVicaLot on October 20, 2020, 04:28:34 AM
You can always fabricate one yourself. It is fairly easy as i found out the other day. Have since made one for my MP400 and my Spirit  :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: ChopperCharles on October 20, 2020, 04:43:27 PM
I mod all my Gerber tools with pocket clips. You do need a drill press, tungsten carbide bits, and a lot of patience. But it can be done.

(https://forum.multitool.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=71930.0;attach=437493)

(https://forum.multitool.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=71930.0;attach=437489)

Charles.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: SirVicaLot on October 21, 2020, 02:27:25 AM
You don’t even have to drill it. Double sided heavy duty tape works as well  :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MTSebastian on October 27, 2020, 08:17:13 PM
I would like to start a brainstorming Guys.... How can we make the CD bladeless? What would fit instead of the blade?

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Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Juan el Boricua on October 27, 2020, 10:51:57 PM
I would like to start a brainstorming Guys.... How can we make the CD bladeless? What would fit instead of the blade?

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Maybe 91mm Vic scissors!? :think: :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: chip on October 28, 2020, 12:06:53 AM
You don’t even have to drill it. Double sided heavy duty tape works as well  :cheers:
i added a stick on clip to my gerber diesel. its not ideal and rides high in the pocket but better than no clip.
i just wish gerber integrated clips into some of their design. ease of pocket carry is a real deal breaker for me and the clips on the wave and skeletool are what make them clear winners for me when deciding on which tool i will actually carry.
(https://i.imgur.com/rROVXTT.jpg)
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MTSebastian on October 28, 2020, 02:30:33 PM
Maybe 91mm Vic scissors!? :think: :tu:
Sounds like a good idea! But is it big enough to fill the holder?

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Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: SirVicaLot on October 29, 2020, 03:03:14 PM
i added a stick on clip to my gerber diesel. its not ideal and rides high in the pocket but better than no clip.
i just wish gerber integrated clips into some of their design. ease of pocket carry is a real deal breaker for me and the clips on the wave and skeletool are what make them clear winners for me when deciding on which tool i will actually carry.
(https://i.imgur.com/rROVXTT.jpg)
Yeah, the pivot screws are kinda in the way there. I wonder if it would be possible to make a clip and attach it under those screws  :think:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: SirVicaLot on October 29, 2020, 03:04:43 PM
I would like to start a brainstorming Guys.... How can we make the CD bladeless? What would fit instead of the blade?

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I thought about using the saw holder, but i think it would be too thick to fit into that spot.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: MTSebastian on October 29, 2020, 03:16:07 PM
It could fit. But it wouldn't lock and it's the wrong side

The Sissors from MP600 is also to small.

We need a 3d printed alternative (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201029/85b3f47907e414b6b7dcbfbd482a3e46.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201029/1bac46974b70ffd71c2c057b6469737e.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201029/48f71498e9b334259afd28f5689e74ed.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201029/9dc13e214e5e5a0eef6500f1c80c2a5f.jpg)

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Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Juan el Boricua on October 29, 2020, 11:13:13 PM
Another idea ... Surge or Wingman scissors or Surge blade exchanger. :think:  :multi:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Sam Lim on October 30, 2020, 02:01:54 AM
A real file?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Antti Lammi on December 03, 2020, 07:38:15 PM
Sended my CD to warranty repair other day cause of broken replaceable cutter and broken awl. I first asked if they could sell me cutters to it but they insisted that i send it to warranty, mentioned awl was broken and reprofiled it.

Today i received message them that they are sending me new CD to replace old one. Gotta love Fiskars/Gerber warranty, only thing they asked estimate buying time for it.


Only Tools Matters
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: master69420 on January 05, 2021, 10:57:36 AM
i added a stick on clip to my gerber diesel. its not ideal and rides high in the pocket but better than no clip.
i just wish gerber integrated clips into some of their design. ease of pocket carry is a real deal breaker for me and the clips on the wave and skeletool are what make them clear winners for me when deciding on which tool i will actually carry.
(https://i.imgur.com/rROVXTT.jpg)

Octane? Basically the only one handed pliers designed to be carried in the pocket.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Antti Lammi on January 13, 2021, 04:34:17 PM
Finally my Center-Drive arrived from warranty repair, i got brand new from there. My issue was broken cutter and snapped awl.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210113/f558b5401bf1312f81415ff20696baa5.jpg)


Only Tools Matters
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: SteveC on January 13, 2021, 11:24:56 PM
 :like: :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Juan el Boricua on January 14, 2021, 12:06:21 AM
Congrats on your new tool Anti; and agood one it is!👍
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Antti Lammi on February 11, 2021, 01:54:09 PM
Dang i did it again and broke my cutters on Center-Drive, other cutter turned to dust.
I called Gerber/Fisksrs customer service and they told me that i get new one, i dont even need to send my old one back. It takes few weeks to arrive here, Gotta say this kinda customer service/ Warranty service is way beyond super.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210211/956a41eb012e7691533d407b46a36625.jpg)


Only Tools Matters
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on February 13, 2021, 11:32:26 PM
Used mine  to put a bed extender on the truck today :multi:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on February 14, 2021, 03:41:54 AM
Outstanding!   :tu: :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on February 14, 2021, 03:43:45 AM
I've always had good customer service from Gerber.  They're usually pretty quick about getting a replacement to you.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: bts on May 30, 2021, 01:43:43 PM
Excited as I just got my Center Drive. So I was wiping the tool with disinfectant(worried of the C19 virus) the black coating? anodizing? came off. I then use my finger to rub and the it stain my finger. Is this normal? Looks like weak coating there.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on May 30, 2021, 03:32:08 PM
Definitely not normal.  I've used and abused mine, and while it's worn, it's not done that.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Juan el Boricua on May 31, 2021, 04:24:04 PM
Excited as I just got my Center Drive. So I was wiping the tool with disinfectant(worried of the C19 virus) the black coating? anodizing? came off. I then use my finger to rub and the it stain my finger. Is this normal? Looks like weak coating there.

I think the coating is black oxide so, yes it is normal for a while. Then it stays on till wear and or scratches develop a patina. Now go an enjoy such a great tool!  :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on May 31, 2021, 04:46:03 PM
 :like: Great advice Juan!  I don't have many black oxide tools, so that didn't occur to me.  Mine bailed me out of a dead car battery the other day.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: John M. Keiper on June 25, 2021, 01:57:38 AM
Bought my first sliding Gerber when they first came out as a kid.  Its when I learned stainless could rust.  lol. I really like this new Centerdrive.  Looking forward to adding it to the carry rotation.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 25, 2021, 02:52:14 AM
You're going to love it John! 
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Vjdotson on September 07, 2021, 11:46:01 PM
Just got the Center-Drive with the M4 Bit Set. A little tight but I think I am really gonna like it!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on September 08, 2021, 04:13:04 AM
 :like:  Congratulations!  You're going to love it!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Scorpion Regent on September 08, 2021, 08:26:12 AM
After decades of pinched palms cutting wire with the MP600 it was time for a change.  I knew what I wanted.  A painless Gerber, with locking blades and a driver that accepted 1/4" bits.  I looked around and there it was, with spring loaded pliers.   
So far the CD gets used for basic light tasks.  When things get serious I have real tools close at hand.  I used it today to install a license plate frame. No I am not posting a image of my license plate, thank you very much.  I'm not impressed with the Phillips bit, but that's unimportant, I'll replace it with a impact rated bit soon enough.  I all ready removed the flat blade bit and a 1/4" socket driver rides in the bit holder now.  A 3" bit extension is in the pouch with the bit assortment. Maybe I'll add a few common sockets in the future.  I accept that the wire cutters are inadequate.  I have real tools to cut wire.  The pry tip is fine for small stuff.  If I need more my GAK has it covered. 
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on September 08, 2021, 08:41:37 AM
 :iagree: 💯
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: campussecurity on October 01, 2021, 05:27:53 AM
My wife is right now using my center drive wire cutters to cut fake plants up to make autumn wreaths to sell. I used to get mad at this and now I'm just attracted. She always used to freak out when my tools are being used and I come home, glad they are being used and not shelf queens.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on October 01, 2021, 01:35:50 PM
I'm the same way.   :iagree:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Alan K. on October 21, 2021, 10:06:18 PM
I finally acquired a Center Drive when it was included in the Surprise Box I received last month.  I like the spring loaded pliers, the very generous sized knife blade, and the sheath that can be worn horizontally is interesting too.  The date code on mine is 0871018D.  There's still a Surprise Box (or two) available to whoever claims it (or them) by the way. :pok:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Adam5 on October 22, 2021, 12:33:59 AM
I finally acquired a Center Drive when it was included in the Surprise Box I received last month.  I like the spring loaded pliers, the very generous sized knife blade, and the sheath that can be worn horizontally is interesting too.  The date code on mine is 0871018D.  There's still a Surprise Box (or two) available to whoever claims it (or them) by the way. :pok:

 :woohoo:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Monrogue on November 04, 2021, 04:44:53 PM
Hey I can join….unfortunately I can’t seem to post pics lately.  I did get the CD last week and I enjoy it.  It actually checks most of the boxes for my preferences, but a big strike is the bulk.  It would be great if there were a smaller version, but the driver would probably be compromised.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on November 04, 2021, 04:55:59 PM
I'll second that.  I don't know if it could be done, but a smaller version sure would be sweet!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: BigMacSailor78 on November 04, 2021, 06:04:51 PM
I bought my CentreDrive as soon as it was available through the Gerber Pro program. I as saddened when they then released a version with scissors.

I am at work and will post pics of mine later as it’s in my truck. 
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: robibotti on November 04, 2021, 06:25:30 PM
 Ciao!! here's my Center Drive...now it's perfect!!!💪😁
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on November 04, 2021, 07:05:13 PM
 :like: :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: SurgeUk on November 04, 2021, 07:43:00 PM
:like: :like:

 :iagree: x2  :tu: :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Juan el Boricua on November 05, 2021, 05:28:29 PM
Great mod, robibotti, and glad that it's now just the way you wanted it! :tu: :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: pa_strunk on November 05, 2021, 07:06:50 PM
Brilliant  :tu: :tu: :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Freefalcon90 on January 14, 2022, 11:06:35 PM
So what's the deal with the Centerdrive owners club 🤔 how do you join it?
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on January 14, 2022, 11:27:45 PM
It's easy!  Just get a Center Drive and post pics and you're in :D
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: BigMacSailor78 on January 17, 2022, 01:06:31 AM
 :facepalm: sorry I’m late.
I bought my CentreDrive as soon as it was available through the Gerber Pro program. I as saddened when they then released a version with scissors.

I am at work and will post pics of mine later as it’s in my truck.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on January 17, 2022, 02:22:35 AM
Looking great!!  :tu: :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Juan el Boricua on January 18, 2022, 02:51:05 PM
Nice kit there, BMS78. And welcome!  :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on January 23, 2022, 03:09:16 PM
After having used the center drive for the last five years, as well as the leatherman oht, mp600, and the Swiss tool spirit x, I can say that the cd is a very good tool, as long as you get one made on a wednesday :D.
The one I have now is my second one, the first one I bought had a plier issue and I had to sent it back for a replacement, the one I've got now I've used for everything from construction to work on the ship to maintenence work on the boats. Gerber can still make great tools but you just never know what your getting with the new ones. It's a shame to see such a great company slide the way they have the last decade
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: powernoodle on January 23, 2022, 05:00:24 PM
I must be stuck in 1974, because it seems to me that the Center Drive should be $59.95 and not $114.99.

But still I want one.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on January 23, 2022, 05:06:13 PM
 :iagree: :tu:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: cat2024 on January 23, 2022, 05:27:28 PM
I've been using my center drive for over a year now. I switched from a Leatherman OHT. I loved the OHT but I had to send it in when the blade lock broke. What I got back was a refurb I believe and the slide lock flipped freely causing the pliers to open on their own in my pouch. I sent it back a second time, same thing I don't think they did anything to it. So I decided to go away from Leatherman and try the center drive.

What I like about the center drive, the slide for the pliers is nice, I like the length of the screw driver. I like the length of the knife.

What I don't like: I can't grip anything fine with the pliers. I find myself needing to crank down on small things with the pliers all the time and am unable to do that. The cutters are horrible. I replaced them with some from the little machine shop, but still terrible. I have to use my dad's leatherman cutters whenever I need to cut something or use actual cutters. Normally using them to try to cut CAT5 or CAT6 ethernet cable. The knife is a good length, but doesn't stay as sharp as my leatherman 420 did. I have to sharpen it far more often it seems.

I think this tool could be great, and I'd be willing to pay a hefty premium for better cutters, pliers and an s30v blade option.

Sent from my Pixel 6 Pro using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on January 23, 2022, 05:31:30 PM
Those cutters have been a complaint from the beginning.  I am still surprised that Gerber hasn't remedied this issue. 
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: powernoodle on January 23, 2022, 05:57:49 PM
I've been using my center drive for over a year now. I switched from a Leatherman OHT.

You are posting at the rate of one per year - but this year's post was a good one, as we appreciate the thoughts of an actual Working Man who uses his Center Drive on the job.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: cat2024 on January 23, 2022, 06:16:54 PM
Those cutters have been a complaint from the beginning.  I am still surprised that Gerber hasn't remedied this issue.
I agree. It's uncanny how much better the Leatherman replaceable cutters are.

Sent from my Pixel 6 Pro using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: cat2024 on January 23, 2022, 06:18:16 PM
You are posting at the rate of one per year - but this year's post was a good one, as we appreciate the thoughts of an actual Working Man who uses his Center Drive on the job.
Appreciate that. I'm gonna hang with it a while longer. Maybe some decent after market cutters will reveal themselves. That would make the other issues reasonable to deal with.

Sent from my Pixel 6 Pro using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: cody6268 on January 24, 2022, 11:06:54 PM
I must be stuck in 1974, because it seems to me that the Center Drive should be $59.95 and not $114.99.

But still I want one.

Occasionally, you'll find them for about that price, but pulled from military surplus Otis weapons cleaning kits. That's where mine came from. Honestly, given all the gadgets that come in the sets, I recommend just getting the whole cleaning kit, as they're usually just about $15 more than just the Center Drive to get a sealed kit.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Spartan19 on February 10, 2022, 02:17:23 AM
I agree. It's uncanny how much better the Leatherman replaceable cutters are.

Sent from my Pixel 6 Pro using Tapatalk

Very true, if I could have the plier head from an oht on a center drive, and the leatherman saw, it would be the ultimate mt
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Jan178 on March 22, 2022, 07:24:22 PM
I HAVE ONE TOO!!!  :cheers:

After years of thinking about it i finally got myselt the CD!
So, long story short, i found myself needing a multi with capability of taking standard bits. I watched reviews of SOG, Leatherman and Gerber, and decided that Gerber is the way.
I have had my MP400 for two decades, Spirit for couple of years and i´ve carried Suspension NXT for about half year, and none of those is close to what i really need at my daily job.

The MP400 keeps going with me when compactness and light weight is needed, but the tools are quite worn out and the whole thing is pretty limited overall.
Vic Spirit is absolutely great when i do some clean tasks inside the house and it´s tools are fantastic, but it´s finishing and tight tolerances makes the tool unusable when using it outside, cold and wet environment. More of an instrument than a tool. But not giving it away, no way!
Gerber Suspension NXT, well, i like it´s toolset, springloaded pliers are nice, phillips driver is absolutely usable and the awl works great as scriber. But they made the tool so unergonomic that it´s actually painful to use without gloves. Also the whole tool flexes so much it feels like it´s gonna break when even moderate force is used.

Now, i thought about getting a SOG Poweraccess for the exotic pliers and ability to use standard bits, but they apparently suffer major quality control issues. Might get the Powerpint is some point, though...
The Leatherman Wave would be a boring desision, tried and true, yes, but i don´t really care carrying plethora of useless flathead drivers. Ability to chance bits is cool, but their price is not. Also i couldn´t buy those bits from every corner store. And actually having used the Wave, while being greatly made it´s tools are, IMHO quite mediocre. And to use those standard bits i woul´d have to carry the extension with me. So, no.

So, what about the Center Drive? Yeah, Gerber has it´s quality issues, but it also has great quarantee. Also i have liked my other Gerbers, specially the MP400 and i think that the sliding pliers are next to none when it comes to usabilitity. The drive of course is the main attraction beside the big OHO knive.
I´ve had this beast of a tool for two weeks now and the more i use it the more i like it! Pliers and blades are coming smoother to open, i modded the tip of file to work as chisel. There are not too many tools in it, but the ones that are there feels to work as they should.

Not regretting my buy so far, and i think we have many years and many jobs ahead of us!  :multi:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on March 22, 2022, 08:01:00 PM
Good for you and welcome aboard!!  :multi:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: semso suljagin on July 27, 2022, 09:49:39 PM
 :like:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on August 20, 2023, 04:45:34 AM
Has anyone ever seen, or modded, a Center Drive pliers set into the blunt nose?  I think that would be a handy set of pliers!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: zoidberg on August 20, 2023, 11:21:58 PM
Has anyone ever seen, or modded, a Center Drive pliers set into the blunt nose?  I think that would be a handy set of pliers!

I have thought about it but I already have a blunt nose mp600, surge, charge and a few others...
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on August 21, 2023, 01:07:39 AM
I'm sort of surprised Gerber doesn't offer one  :think:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on August 23, 2023, 04:34:42 PM
Well used but still getting the job done!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Antti Lammi on November 11, 2023, 01:53:44 PM
Has anyone found good solution to spare bit holder so it wont prevent grabbing thin materials, i hate to open it everytime i want to grab thin materials like paper so 8 can pull them without slipping.
I could mod that holder so it wouldnt engage other side when grabbing thin materials but it would also mean that lifting up spare holder comes troublesome especially when wearing gloves ( without gloves its also really difficult) to me its really huge flaw on desing, on my previous Centerdrive i modded part that engaged orjer handle away so i know how annoying that can be, also i dont wanna keep holder open cause if it comes loose bits drop and secondly it digs to your hand when squeezing pliers ( without gloves or thin gloves) also it sometimes stucks to your pockets cause of that holder, i carried it on my workpants swing pockets for faster acces, many times it got stuck on fabric inside pockets.
So i decided to cut away that part but it made lifting holder near impossible without help of something like nail or screw. Eventually i just let it sit and started carrying seperate bitholder cause it was easier to grab bit from it that lift up holder.
Eventually i sended Centerdrive to warranty cause blades lock bended and i couldnt bend it back so blade wouldnt wiggle back and fort when blade was engaged, when i got new i partially gave up carrying it cause of that flaw in desing and replaced it with ST300 and Victorinox wrenches.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231111/55e0cc102fd2b3d634922122bb4f4a4e.jpg)

There is that flaw, if anyone wonder what part i meant. Try it yourself, when sparebit holder is closed grab paper with pliers and pull paper it just slips, then open holder and repeat grabbing and it wont slip like when holder closed. It seems to be small flaw but it is actually really huge desing flaw.
To make it work better Gerber should redesing holder so that lift up mechanism is much lower than it is now. Difference between gap on handles closed and opened holder is roughly 2-3mm but if you press even more on opened holder handles gap is much less, but even without pressing hard that 2-3mm makes pliers grab paper without it slipping. So it makes huge difference even that gap is so small.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231111/4d3339581984d3a86846d66d6c15f058.jpg)


Only Tools Matters
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on November 11, 2023, 04:58:02 PM
Of all the pieces on the Center Drive, that bit holder is the one part that almost everyone dislikes.  Mine wants to drop the bit because it gets loose.  I think it could definitely use some revisions. 
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Judith on February 19, 2024, 03:46:35 AM
Just picked up a CD the other day, they had it 20% off at Ace Hardware. So far I really like it, it rattles a bit more than my surge but I honestly prefer it over the Surge so far. One thing though does anyone know where you can buy the bit set that comes with it? The one I purchased didn't include the bit set and Ive looked high and low and can't find it anywhere. I couldn't even find it on Gerber's site
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on February 19, 2024, 04:22:37 AM
Welcome to the club Judith!  I know someone posted a link on either the CD or MP600 owner's club for the bit kit.  Let me look and see what I can find for you and get back to you.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Judith on February 19, 2024, 04:26:36 AM
Thanks Barry, this site has been awesome to browse through since I stumbled across it recently. Since the CD takes standard 1/4 bits I know I can use some off the shelf ones but I’m a sucker for having my equipment match up OEM wise. Thanks again!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on February 19, 2024, 04:37:24 AM
I understand completely Judith!  https://www.knifecountryusa.com/store/product/120708.120737/gerber-45200-tool-kit-for-mp-400-mp-600-and-mp-800.html?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA8sauBhB3EiwAruTRJj55DxygdAui2y3SYG-x1Gv1gEhX9o4io5O2TXGQkHRM1BjQSAG0qRoCTsUQAvD_BwE is a new set for sale.  It's identical to the CD version.
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on March 05, 2024, 12:00:49 AM
Some pictures from the Driver Challenge.  I don't know why I didn't post more here  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on March 05, 2024, 12:03:32 AM
 :ahhh
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on March 05, 2024, 12:03:54 AM
☕☕
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Juan el Boricua on March 24, 2024, 05:03:48 PM
Patina!!! :multi:
  [ This attachment cannot be displayed inline in 'Print Page' view ]    [ This attachment cannot be displayed inline in 'Print Page' view ]  
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on March 24, 2024, 05:18:03 PM
Excellent!!  Juan that looks great!
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Juan el Boricua on March 24, 2024, 05:20:33 PM
 :hatsoff: :cheers:
Title: Re: Gerber Center Drive Club
Post by: Barry Rowland on March 24, 2024, 05:22:56 PM
I love how the Center Drive seasons with use.  They look better the older they get  :D