Post by: Chako on March 25, 2016, 01:47:04 PM
Leatherman came out with its iconic Pocket Survival Tool (PST) back in 1983. That tool has changed the multi-tool market ever since. There were older models than the PST and one could not claim that the PST was the first butterfly style folding plier based multi-tool ever created...but it most certainly made a large impact on the multi-tool market when first introduced.
You might be wondering why I am starting this little Gerber episode off with mention of the Leatherman PST. Well, back in the 90's, Gerber went head to head with Leatherman for a military contract. Now my meager research indicated that military contract was for the USMC. Gerber made the odd looking MPT to compete with the PST. Surprisingly enough they won that contract with the MPT. I do not know the numbers, but apparently these were issued to a few good men and women in the US Marine Corp. One could think of this as the forefather that paved the long relationship Gerber and the US military have enjoyed ever since with the various MP600 BO versions.
Now to beat the PST, Gerber came out with a tool that is very much similar to its competition. In doing so, the Gerber MPT is a very odd duck in the Gerber Lineup. It looks like nothing Gerber has produced before or since. With that said, the MPT is definitely a very dated design.
The MPT did one thing better than the PST design wise. The issue with the Leatherman PST was always the handles that dug into the palm whenever you applied any amount of force on the pliers. The Gerber MPT fixed that by rolling the edges that comes in contact with your palm. At the price of a slightly thicker body, you gain exponentially in ergonomics. With that said, the MPT was never considers one of Gerber's top end designs. It was a model designed to go head to head with the PST. Eventually, models were made for the civilian market.
I must say, I appreciate the clean lines of the older multi-tools. I am a big fan of the Leatherman PST, and the MPT fits right in there in the looks department. Being highly polished and slablike in form, the MPT is a looker. Its looks do belly its functionality however, as more modern MTs run circles around this tool.
Look at those rolled edges...comfort right there.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0472small_zpsvxywhsk2.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0472small_zpsvxywhsk2.jpg.html)
The tool load-out of the MPT was very similar to its main competitor the PST. It featured one less physical tool, but the cap lifter did double duty as a small flat head screwdriver, negating much of the advantage, if any, of the PST.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0473small_zps2ewp6xqq.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0473small_zps2ewp6xqq.jpg.html)
A closer look at those rolled edges.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0476small_zpsmldjnkr4.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0476small_zpsmldjnkr4.jpg.html)
No locking mechanism on the MPT. At the time, the competition didn't feature these either.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0477small_zpslaktj1m9.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0477small_zpslaktj1m9.jpg.html)
The pliers are unique in the Gerber line.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0478small_zpsi0wzncze.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0478small_zpsi0wzncze.jpg.html)
Now the MPT was never designed to be a top quality multi-tool. In fact, many including myself believed it to be an economical tool found in the Gerber lineup. Quite often, the handles wouldn't fit flush with each other, among other various minor fit issues. However, looking back at these older multi-tools, there is just something about polished stainless steel with nice curves in the creases, etc...that is very attractive. Lets just say for a cheaply made tool, the stamping is top rate, as are the edge bends.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0479small_zpslhux8zho.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0479small_zpslhux8zho.jpg.html)
I also have a weird hydro painted MPT. The finish is rather fragile, but it does make for a striking looker.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0480small_zpshgzd87ik.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0480small_zpshgzd87ik.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0481small_zpsyjr0n5lv.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0481small_zpsyjr0n5lv.jpg.html)
For more information, please look at our resident encyclopedia entry here...
http://wiki.multitool.org/tiki-index.php?page=MPT
Post by: Chako on March 25, 2016, 02:17:39 PM
Gerber has been an interesting company product wise in terms of multi-tools. Fiskars bought out Gerber Legendary Blades back in 1987, thus all of Gerber's multi-tools were produced as a subsidiary of Fiskars. This will come to play in future Episodes.
With that said, back in the early 90's, Gerber/Fiskars started to look at the multi-tool market. Leatherman had a big head start with their PST which was introduced back in 1983. Many companies wanted a piece of the lucrative multi-tool market, and Gerber was no different. They introduced this very early version of their much popular Multiplier family of multi-tools. This First Production Run Multi-Plier was based on a unique concept of having the pliers slide up and down inside the body. That made their design unique and different from the competition. This tool was the forefather of the now very popular MP400 and MP600 series.
This is a very dated example. Look at the lack of tool locks (those came afterwards), the polished stainless steel, and the well defined stamping. I am unsure of the intro date, as unlike Leatherman, Gerber never bothered to stamp dates on their tools, but I would hazard a guess at a production date of around 1991 to 1993. This Gerber is a very early example of things to come.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0482small_zpsd93ru1yn.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0482small_zpsd93ru1yn.jpg.html)
The Multi-Plier's biggest design feature was the unique sliding pliers. The patent ran out in the last few years, allowing Leatherman to come out with the OHT. One could think of the OHT as an homage to the venerable Gerber design.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0483small_zpsxkplwxxs.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0483small_zpsxkplwxxs.jpg.html)
The tool load-out was surprisingly good. Just the right amount of flat drivers, along with two blades and a very nice pair of scissors. What is odd about the First Production Run was that Gerber seriously messed up on the nail nick locations. If you have a copy of the First Production Run Multi-Plier, then you can see that extracting some of the tools is more difficult than it should be. I am happy to say this is the only Gerber multi-tool that shows this issue. They quickly fixed this after the first run got out the door.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0484small_zpsk33wb91x.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0484small_zpsk33wb91x.jpg.html)
Gerber was rightfully proud of this tool...
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0485small_zps6egscwft.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0485small_zps6egscwft.jpg.html)
An early model that is rough around the edges...but showed the potential which later models and revisions built upon.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0486small_zpsvcmgs280.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0486small_zpsvcmgs280.jpg.html)
The "First Production Run" is only stamped on the one side.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0488small_zpsulw3kocn.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0488small_zpsulw3kocn.jpg.html)
One thing Gerber hadn't figured out yet in this early production model...was the handle geometry. Many folks call the older Multi-Plier models as mister Pinchy. This First Production Run illustrates the issue and the dangers to your palms if you were not careful.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0489small_zpsqouhutom.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0489small_zpsqouhutom.jpg.html)
Regardless, this tool ushered in a new era for Gerber with their iconic sliding pliers design.
Post by: Demel on March 25, 2016, 03:58:48 PM
Post by: Chako on March 25, 2016, 05:33:07 PM
I have always found that my knowledge is lacking when it comes to the older Gerbers. The two that I will be talking about in this episode are what J-sews aka Bob, stated was a version 5. From what little I know, the version 5 of the MultiPlier was the last version before the MultiPlier 600 (originally called the Multi Lock) rolled out in 1998. I also believe this is the first Gerber that featured a needle nose plier. All previous versions were blunt nosed.
If you compare the version 1 "First Run" mentioned in episode 2 to this version 5, you can see the extent of generational improvements that the MultiPlier family offered.
Notice that when closed, the handle gap is wider than that found on the first generation.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0490small_zpsgz7xb5hg.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0490small_zpsgz7xb5hg.jpg.html)
5th Generation blunt nose MultiPlier.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0491small_zpsgbmvtbfw.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0491small_zpsgbmvtbfw.jpg.html)
The scissors from the first generation are now removed by this time and replaced by a file.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0492small_zpsoyo306jr.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0492small_zpsoyo306jr.jpg.html)
Both handles are stamped with the following patent numbers. Note the rivets used on the pliers slide mechanism.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0493small_zps8uerfxhy.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0493small_zps8uerfxhy.jpg.html)
Plier pivot point.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0494small_zpsu4iwu5dj.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0494small_zpsu4iwu5dj.jpg.html)
An inside look of a version 5 MultiPlier focusing on the sliding plier mechanism.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0495small_zpsmnicrvsl.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0495small_zpsmnicrvsl.jpg.html)
That is it for the blunt nose, what follows is the first needlenose MultiPlier offered to the public.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0496small_zpsporhfyhu.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0496small_zpsporhfyhu.jpg.html)
Note that by version 5, they had designed the pliers/sliding mechanism/handles to give a wider gap, thereby eliminating the older versions pinchy characteristics. I do not know what version the change was implemented at...but by version 5, that pinched palm issue was mostly fixed.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0497small_zps0xri14hf.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0497small_zps0xri14hf.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0498small_zpsn1kjiw9e.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0498small_zpsn1kjiw9e.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0499small_zpshmifwabx.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0499small_zpshmifwabx.jpg.html)
Gerber's first needlenose installation model...setting the stage for the ever popular MultiPlier 600.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0500small_zpsljrck8tx.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0500small_zpsljrck8tx.jpg.html)
If you look very closely, you can see that the needlenose pliers example offers a slightly larger handle gap than the blunt nose plier. Just an observation.
This ends this installment of episode 3.
Post by: Poncho65 on March 25, 2016, 06:46:51 PM
Post by: jerseydevil on March 25, 2016, 07:03:40 PM
Post by: Demel on March 25, 2016, 08:28:16 PM
Wow Chako! This is an excellent idea for a thread, and I'm loving it so far. :tu: Add a couple more models and I think I'll make this a sticky.I vote sticky thread as well
Post by: tosh on March 25, 2016, 08:34:08 PM
I remember being obsessed by Gerber when I first joined partly because they were in abundance here in the UK and compared to their rivals were significantly cheaper.....win win :tu:
After having purchased most of the models that were available here in the UK, I quickly realised what was available across the pond on eBay :ahhh :drool: :drool:
With the help of many members here my Gerber collection just exploded :D
Back then - we're only talking 4yrs ago!!, there seemed to be a never ending supply of unusual models offered up continuously.... In fact the biggest problem was having the money to buy.
What a difference 4yrs makes, I haven't followed Gerber much for the past couple of years, been too busy grabbing Wengers :facepalm: but occasionally I look to see if there's anything unusual being offered but it seems to be just a steady never-ending stream of the usual models with maybe the odd mr.pinchy offered up.
Missed out on a First Production Run MP600 (Grey locking release tabs) that was offered up here on the forums trade section a few years back, needless to say I've been hoping to land one for my own collection ever since.
Something to keep me on my toes I suppose !
Post by: Chako on March 25, 2016, 08:34:32 PM
Back in 1987, Fiskars bought out Gerber Legendary Blades. One could say that although Gerber was the force behind the designs, Fiskar was the parent company. Thus, it should not be any surprise that the MultiPier should also bear Fiskars' name.
What I do know is that this is not a version 1, nor is it a version 5. This pair of Fiskars stamped MultiPliers are somewhere in between. If I was to hazard a guess, I would say these are closer to the version 5 than they are to the version 1. Maybe a version 3 or 4 but with no clear information that I could find, I am only guessing here. I couldn't find much about these older Gerbers, and what little I could discern comes from MT.O. No surprise there.
I do know I am fortunate to have a pair of Fiskars MultiPliers however.
Note the handle gap. I do know that the version 2 was very much like the version 1 in terms of a lack of gap. The older pliers form makes me think this is more in line with the version 3 of the MultiPlier. Stickily conjecture here.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0502small_zpsdsylcik7.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0502small_zpsdsylcik7.jpg.html)
Note the older style pliers.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0503small_zpsxnb7ydfx.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0503small_zpsxnb7ydfx.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0506small_zpsuie15nys.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0506small_zpsuie15nys.jpg.html)
The tool load-out is somewhat similar with version 1 in that it has the old style Gerber Awl.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0504small_zpsiua7qph4.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0504small_zpsiua7qph4.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0507small_zps45quvcvc.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0507small_zps45quvcvc.jpg.html)
Note the lack of scissors though.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0508small_zpsbr13rvdl.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0508small_zpsbr13rvdl.jpg.html)
A closer look at the Patent numbers which are stamped on both handles. Also note the two retaining screws for the pliers sliding assembly. You could tighten these up with the proper hex key.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0505small_zpspwxxlxgk.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0505small_zpspwxxlxgk.jpg.html)
To sum this up, Fiskars, Gerber's parent company did indeed have Fiskars labeled MultiPliers. However, they didn't seem to continue this line...not sure if they feared watering down the name, or competing with their own product. Either way, having a MultiPlier with the Fiskars name on it is a little neat. Not something you see everyday.
Post by: Chako on March 25, 2016, 08:37:28 PM
Post by: Chako on March 25, 2016, 09:46:38 PM
I know there have been a lot of confusion on who exactly produced the Carolina Knife and Tool. We know that Fiskars bought Gerber Legendary Blades back in 1987. We also know that during the development stages or should that be the evolutionary stages of the sliding pliers MultiPlier model, Fiskars branded a few Gerbers. I firmly believe these came from the Gerber factory as they are marked U.S.A. With that said, Fiskars wanted to also have an econo version produced offshore. This company is called Carolina Knife and Tool.
Before we go into greater details, just be aware that Carolina Knife and Tool has also been known to package some really cheap designs that are not based on Gerber MultiPliers. You can find some boxed sets that have no relationship with Gerber whatsoever.
My first Carolina Knife and Tool multi-tool is actually a very nice and well made item. Mind you, this was bought new in the mid to late 90s. One thing to know is that the older made models are of higher quality than the newer ones. This first Carolina Tool fooled me for the longest time, as I thought it was produced by Gerber in the US. For a while, I didn't clue into the fact that if it was, it would have had USA stamped somewhere on the body. Regardless, this is a good quality piece especially compared to the later offerings. It should also be pointed that these Carolina branded models have outlasted the original Gerber MultiPlier variants in that you can still find a Carolina branded model, albeit of a much lower quality, new. More on that later.
The first Carolina Tool that was bought new. I know I am personally attracted to polished stainless steel, and well manufactured tools. This hits all those points, and thus is my favorite of the lot.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0509small_zpsi9nbbave.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0509small_zpsi9nbbave.jpg.html)
The pliers are a little different from the Gerber made MultiPliers.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0510small_zpsirwslwu9.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0510small_zpsirwslwu9.jpg.html)
The tools are comparable to the Gerbers in design and quality.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0511small_zpsfxfan6ax.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0511small_zpsfxfan6ax.jpg.html)
The quality of the stamping is just below what you would see on a Gerber branded product. Not by much however. This of course take a serious drop in the newer and far cheaply made Carolina branded tools. Note the two flat screwdriver bolts used to hold the sliding pliers mechanism.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0512small_zpsuhn8bacf.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0512small_zpsuhn8bacf.jpg.html)
Not bad actually.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0513small_zps8mjqrcdf.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0513small_zps8mjqrcdf.jpg.html)
A closer look at that odd pliers jaws.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0514small_zpsloys5hmr.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0514small_zpsloys5hmr.jpg.html)
the next model bought showed a marked departure from the older tool. However, this is not as bad as it gets. The stamping on the tool is still rather nice and crisp.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0515small_zpsoumjht7q.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0515small_zpsoumjht7q.jpg.html)
Note the newer pliers design found on this second model.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0516small_zps3foxgfsx.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0516small_zps3foxgfsx.jpg.html)
This model also lacks a serrated blade.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0517small_zpskse1fru4.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0517small_zpskse1fru4.jpg.html)
Differences also continue in the sliding pliers mechanism. Note that instead of the two flat headed bolts, we now have a rivet and a Phillips head book-ending the button.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0518small_zpsodnxevux.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0518small_zpsodnxevux.jpg.html)
You can see a deterioration in the stamping. I should also add that all Carolina Tools have the patent numbers stamped on only one handle, not the two as seen with Gerber models.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0519small_zpszd6wfsti.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0519small_zpszd6wfsti.jpg.html)
Here is the third and newest addition to this family. It is also the cheapest in fit and finish.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0521small_zpsgk7rijj7.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0521small_zpsgk7rijj7.jpg.html)
Note the different font used to stamp Carolina Knife and Tool on the handle. Worse yet, it is not an even stamping.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0522small_zpsbw96dq09.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0522small_zpsbw96dq09.jpg.html)
The tool Load-out is the same as the above with a few quality dips throughout.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0523small_zpsmnqjskpk.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0523small_zpsmnqjskpk.jpg.html)
If you look at the backside of the rivets, you can see they aren't exactly uniform.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0524small_zpsbymsr7dv.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0524small_zpsbymsr7dv.jpg.html)
This cheapest of examples is also the only one to have the place of manufacture stamped on the inside of a handle.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0528small_zpslx84jqr0.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0528small_zpslx84jqr0.jpg.html)
Note also that the rivet lacks finishing, showing a bit of the sprue on the sliding pliers assembly.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0529small_zpsdxpquige.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0529small_zpsdxpquige.jpg.html)
My last of this family is a Winchester branded Fisherman. The Gerber MP600 Fisherman came out in 2001, thus I can only assume this came out later than that date. It is without doubt a product of the Carolina Knife and Tool company.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0530small_zpstlatpgx2.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0530small_zpstlatpgx2.jpg.html)
Gerber designed Fisherman models all have an overly long set of pliers that jut out of the multi-tool when stowed away. This Winchester model is no different.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0531small_zpshohvwvn8.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0531small_zpshohvwvn8.jpg.html)
This model also features a serrated blade that follows the Gerber serrated blade pattern of the day.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0532small_zpsoikkzsjf.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0532small_zpsoikkzsjf.jpg.html)
This later tool also shows the lack of finish as evinced by the sprue on the rivet of the sliding assembly mechanism.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0533small_zpsgilec0tn.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0533small_zpsgilec0tn.jpg.html)
In this Episode, we have taken a closer look at those Carolina Knife and Tool models that are based upon Gerber Multi-Plier design. These Carolina models are all built cheaper than those made from Gerber in the United States. You could also say that the older produced models are of higher quality than those of more recent production. Either way, You can still find the more recent model new online and at a few stores. With that said, Carolina Knife and Tool multi-tools are a subsidiary company of the parent company Fiskars, and this is why I tend to store these tools with the Gerbers in my collection. They are related by design and company. They are a fascinating offshoot.
Post by: Chako on March 25, 2016, 10:35:55 PM
(Not related to the AR weapons support Multitasker series)
This next model is a rather unusual one. Meet the Paul Chen Multitasker. This tool, produced in China, is a Paul Chen design based upon the Gerber sliding pliers design. If you are wondering, Paul Chen is a fairly well known knife blade designer for Hanwai Swords.
Fiskars marketed this as the Fiskars Excalibur Multi-Snipe. There was also a similar tool called a Zibermann tool which appears to be also produced by the same factory...but unsure if there was any Fiskars tie in other than the general Gerber sliding pliers design.
See the Zibermann tool thread here: http://forum.multitool.org/index.php?topic=3791.0
The Paul Chen Multitasker has Professional laser etched onto the one handle. The tool features a Victorinox like pliers that pivots 180 degrees. It is an odd design, as the pliers fold on top of the tool.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0534small_zpsnf38vafw.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0534small_zpsnf38vafw.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0542small_zpsbbmpogza.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0542small_zpsbbmpogza.jpg.html)
On the back side, a very nice pocket-clip.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0536small_zpsuguhsdnk.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0536small_zpsuguhsdnk.jpg.html)
The snipes slide out and are beefy in size and thickness.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0537small_zpscwkq3yp4.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0537small_zpscwkq3yp4.jpg.html)
This tool is surprisingly thick for the tools carried. There is a liner locked knife blade nested in the one handle, and a fold out non-locking saw in the other handle. The second handle also has a removable file that locks in place around a pivot point.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0539small_zpsrnx3mxg1.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0539small_zpsrnx3mxg1.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0540small_zpsoeiumtoq.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0540small_zpsoeiumtoq.jpg.html)
A close up of the sliding pliers assembly mechanism.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0544small_zpsmtjukuug.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0544small_zpsmtjukuug.jpg.html)
A relatively small set of pliers is also included on the tool.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0545small_zpsszmfc4pk.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0545small_zpsszmfc4pk.jpg.html)
I store the Paul Chen Multitasker with the rest of the Gerber collection due to the Fiskars tie in and general design. This one is an interesting tool, and due to its bulk and toolset, is mostly of interest to collectors.
Post by: Chako on March 26, 2016, 01:10:32 AM
Coming out one year after the MultiPlier 600, the MP400 Compact is a very popular multi-tool due to its size, weight, and functionality. Unlike the MP600, the MP400 comes in a limited variety. The MP400 was first introduced in 1999.
The MP400 is quite easy to differentiate from its larger sibling via the handle ventilation cutouts. The MP400 is also only stamped on the one side of the tool.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0548small_zpsk77qqjex.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0548small_zpsk77qqjex.jpg.html)
Much like the MP600, the MP400 features locking tools via two large plastic locking levers. Push them against an internal spring to unlock. The locking levers are wider and also textured for easier grip.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0549small_zpsb7p7z9h8.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0549small_zpsb7p7z9h8.jpg.html)
The MP400 features a more modern pliers head. As far as I know, there are no MP400 models with removable cutters.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0550small_zpsjicsvdsz.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0550small_zpsjicsvdsz.jpg.html)
This is the standard tool load-out for the MP400. The scissors are actually quite good, heads and shoulders above those found in the first generation Multi-plier.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0552small_zps8rfgerib.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0552small_zps8rfgerib.jpg.html)
Here is the tool load-out of the MP450. Basically, an MP400 with a file instead of scissors, a differen Phillips driver, and a different shaped main knife blade. Externally, they both look the same when closed up.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0553small_zpsb9xyz3e9.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0553small_zpsb9xyz3e9.jpg.html)
This variant is called the MP400 Advertiser. One side of the tool has no ventilation cutouts in the handles. This allows room for a billboard space for companies to place their logos and names on it. The far side looks like your average MP400.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0554small_zpsg7ehwp69.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0554small_zpsg7ehwp69.jpg.html)
This variant is called the MP400 Corkscrew. This one is interesting as one handle has a cutout to fit the corkscrew.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0556small_zpsv1qwqabn.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0556small_zpsv1qwqabn.jpg.html)
The MP400 Corkscrew replaces the file with a corkscrew. The knife blade in this photo is still in the handle folded away.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0555small_zpsbesniwwm.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0555small_zpsbesniwwm.jpg.html)
Another variant is the MP400 Fisherman. This tool not only features the longer fisherman pliers, but a different tool load-out.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0557small_zpsucbqpbji.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0557small_zpsucbqpbji.jpg.html)
Differences from your average run of the mill MP400 are the inclusion of fixed tweezers, a file with a hook groove (on the hidden side), and an awl.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0558small_zpsrbp4a2vl.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0558small_zpsrbp4a2vl.jpg.html)
The MP400 also comes in a black oxide version. Notice the different blade shape to the stainless steel version at the start of this episode.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0559small_zpsxlkwfmbe.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0559small_zpsxlkwfmbe.jpg.html)
Gerber also produced a special MP400 Terminator 3 model that features a differently shaped blade, and a different handle marking.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0561small_zpst2ngo1pr.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0561small_zpst2ngo1pr.jpg.html)
BO MP400 on top, special commemorative T3 version on the bottom.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0562small_zpsb63alxav.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0562small_zpsb63alxav.jpg.html)
Overall, the MP400 is a nice multi-tool that features a lot of functionality in an easy to carry package. The MP400 along with the MP600 are some of Gerbers best sellers.
Post by: Marcellus on March 26, 2016, 01:35:20 AM
Thanks again Chako!
Post by: Chako on March 26, 2016, 05:49:48 AM
1998 was a banner year for Gerber. That was when the MP600 rolled out. At first called the Multi-Lock, the MP600 ushered in a vast armada of variations. These range from different pliers down to the various tools included. I only have a few models, and those are the ones I will illustrate for you, but be aware that there are many variations, and most of them fall under the MP600 designation with not a model name to differentiate one from another...that is how it seems to me.
This is the general profile of the MP600.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0563small_zpsdckje9yj.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0563small_zpsdckje9yj.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0564small_zpshad6quqz.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0564small_zpshad6quqz.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0565small_zpsmkpax6oc.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0565small_zpsmkpax6oc.jpg.html)
Multi-Lock Woodsman
This is an early model that includes a removable saw. A little different from the later models that usually comes with a RemGrit blade.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0566small_zpsxhkhtzjl.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0566small_zpsxhkhtzjl.jpg.html)
MP600 Pro Scout
This version is fairly feature rich with a removable RemGrit blade. My copy has that style of knife, but with the whole MP600 line, the shape and style of the blade may be different in another Pro Scout. There is even a Camo Pro Scout.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0585small_zpsfmvdikvf.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0585small_zpsfmvdikvf.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0568small_zps3h7jzchb.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0568small_zps3h7jzchb.jpg.html)
MP600 Basic
Just as it says, the basic model.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0567small_zpsqdwpdm5z.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0567small_zpsqdwpdm5z.jpg.html)
MP600 Fisherman
Much like its smaller sibling the MP400 Fisherman, this multi-tool features a very long set of pliers. Likewise, the MP600 Fisherman also comes with a lanyard.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0569small_zpsccyjbmwn.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0569small_zpsccyjbmwn.jpg.html)
Carbide cutters, an awl, and a fishing hook sharpening groove on the file round out the fisherman's features.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0570small_zpsxasluyoz.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0570small_zpsxasluyoz.jpg.html)
MP600 Cable Cutter
Another odd duck. Replace the pliers with a pair of cable cutters.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0571small_zpsu6pypqyq.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0571small_zpsu6pypqyq.jpg.html)
BO MP600
There are several variations of the MP600 in black oxide. This version has a sheeps foot blade that appears to be common on military geared Gerbers. This variant also features removable carbide cutters, and blunt nosed pliers. Likewise, these BO MP600 versions are common with military packs. I have others that came with OTIS firearm cleaning kits, and other military kits. Many of these may have slight variations from one another.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0572small_zpsogzce4ue.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0572small_zpsogzce4ue.jpg.html)
A slightly different variation. Note the needle nose pliers and removable carbide cutters. Also of interest, no file nail cutout as seen in the above variant.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0573small_zpsz33okp98.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0573small_zpsz33okp98.jpg.html)
MP600 Operation Iraqi Freedom
Here is a special MP600 to commemorate the war with Iraq. Operation Iraqi Freedom started in 2003, placing this variant sometime after that date. Note the nail cutouts on all longer tools.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0574small_zpsgedrawbs.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0574small_zpsgedrawbs.jpg.html)
Build Your Own Gerber Program MP600
For a time, Gerber allowed you to customize your own MP600. There were six colours on tap (white, blue, yellow, red, green, and orange), and of course the options of using a basic or Pro Scout model. Mix that with black or stainless innards, and you got yourself some variety. I think the Operation Iraqi Freedom listed above as part of this program. Likewise, I recall J-sews stating that the yellow and red only came in a combo pack with a flashlight.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0575small_zpsgu5sd4ty.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0575small_zpsgu5sd4ty.jpg.html)
MP600 ST
Here is a military specific MP600. The ST stands for sight, as in, you can maintain and sight in your firearm. The tool load-out for this one is different from all the other MP600s out there. This model is easy to ID front and back as each side has a cut out for one of the specialized tools.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0576small_zpsqbxeg1ry.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0576small_zpsqbxeg1ry.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0577small_zpsczwofq0u.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0577small_zpsczwofq0u.jpg.html)
You get a sight adjustment tool, and extra long Phillips driver, and a carbon scraper to round out the tool specialization.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0578small_zps6n7l26g5.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0578small_zps6n7l26g5.jpg.html)
MP600 DET
Another military tool, this time geared towards folks that like to blow stuff up. The MP600 DET has a cap crimper pliers head and a nice C4 spike.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0579small_zpsu8xvmbds.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0579small_zpsu8xvmbds.jpg.html)
Note that the C4 spike only protruded on one side of the tool. The back side does not look like anything special.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0580small_zpszo0rdm7j.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0580small_zpszo0rdm7j.jpg.html)
The MP600 DET also features a removable RemGrit blade.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0581small_zpslcmuqqnu.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0581small_zpslcmuqqnu.jpg.html)
A closer look at the cap crimper head.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0582small_zpssvst1eck.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0582small_zpssvst1eck.jpg.html)
Of interest, the MP600 DET also had a very dishonest fake out there. The fake is simply painted black as opposed to having a real black oxide finish. Likewise, the USA is not stamped into the body but simply silk screened on the handle. The differences don't stop there. The fake does not have a removable saw blade...and the whole thing is cheaply built.
Fake on top, real on the bottom.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0583small_zpstewwngmh.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0583small_zpstewwngmh.jpg.html)
Here is the fake. Note the white USA lettering, the general black painted parts, the lack of a removable saw blade. If you look really closely, you can tell that some of the tools are a little off in shape.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0584small_zpsdx7vejki.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0584small_zpsdx7vejki.jpg.html)
Well, that was quite the slog. As you can see, there are plenty of different MP600 variations out there. The MP600 is a favorite of many, and is one of Gerber's longest and best selling multi-tools.
Post by: Chako on March 26, 2016, 06:33:42 AM
The MP650 Evolution came out in 2002. Someone over at Gerber figured that it might be cool to be able to exchange the pliers. That came with the cost of having to store the various plier heads, along with the inability of folding the tool into a smaller and easier package to carry around. You see, the MP650 cannot fold away.
Likewise, there were two variants of the MP650. I like to think of them as the civilian and military version. The civilian version does not feature spring loaded pliers. The Military version does...but it does this with a piece of spring steel attached to each inner handle. They bridge together and keep the jaws open slightly. Likewise, the MP650 came in a Military Tech Kit. This kit came in a very large zippered pouch that can be attached to a belt or webbing. Along with the spring loaded body, you also get 4 different plier heads (cable cutter, cap crimper, blunt nose, and needle nose) that do not feature replacable carbide cutters. There is also a Fisherman pliers head that does feature removable cutters. I know of only these 5 plier heads.
Notice that the internals are much like the MP600 Pro Scout.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0586small_zpstn4nped9.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0586small_zpstn4nped9.jpg.html)
Here are the two different MP650 bodies.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0588small_zpsjx4hsbgj.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0588small_zpsjx4hsbgj.jpg.html)
Here is the Military Tech Kit with the largish pouch on the left, along with the 5 different heads and 2 bodies. Note that I have an extra blunt head for the second body.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0589small_zpsjimdeong.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0589small_zpsjimdeong.jpg.html)
A closer look at the different bodies.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0590small_zpsx8uyjxrl.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0590small_zpsx8uyjxrl.jpg.html)
A closer look at the base of the plier head. It would appear they are standard pliers heads with slight modifications, if any, to make them interchangeable.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0591small_zpsyowhtpqt.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0591small_zpsyowhtpqt.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0592small_zpspjiyolqh.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0592small_zpspjiyolqh.jpg.html)
The MP650 Evolution is basically a modified MP600 that allows the interchangeability of the pliers. Simply press in the two spring catches on the body and push the pliers in until it snaps in place. To remove the pliers, press the two spring catches and pull away on the pliers. A unique concept in the multi-tool industry. A great idea let down somewhat in execution. The hallmark for a multi-tool is something that folds upon itself for ease of carry. The MP650 couldn't, and thus was a chore to carry in the field.
Post by: gregozedobe on March 26, 2016, 12:33:46 PM
Thank you for some very informative posts (and great photos as usual :tu: )
If I may add to it, here is a link to a post I did a while back on the early Multi-Pliers (Mr Pinchy) in case anyone wants more details on the differences between the various versions (1-5) :
http://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,48158.msg928733.html#msg928733
Post by: Demel on March 26, 2016, 01:48:40 PM
Post by: Poncho65 on March 26, 2016, 05:40:23 PM
I am gonna hunt for a couple of these different models and give Gerber a try if I can find the ones I want with the tools I want and these will be a good reference for me to get started looking with :D
Post by: strmliner on March 26, 2016, 05:54:45 PM
Wow Chako! This is an excellent idea for a thread, and I'm loving it so far. :tu: Add a couple more models and I think I'll make this a sticky.I vote sticky thread as well
+1000
Great work Dan...thanks for putting this info out there. :2tu:
Post by: Chako on March 26, 2016, 06:36:08 PM
No worries. I have just basically wrapped up one and a little bit of a second drawer so far. I plan on running through my Gerber collection in its entirety. So stay tuned for more later. I think when I am done, this will be one massively long thread.
Can't wait to hear how you will get along with your Gerber(s) in the future Poncho65.
Demel, I have no idea how they came up with their model naming.
Post by: jerseydevil on March 26, 2016, 06:48:08 PM
Post by: Marcellus on March 26, 2016, 07:26:21 PM
What a great , valuable contribution to this forum
Thanks again Chako!
I have never posted with my own quote in it, to my recollection, but...
I was raving about this presentation, and it was not even DONE yet!
Outstanding post Chako
He went from the recording studio to a Platinum album, like overnight!
Post by: Chako on March 27, 2016, 12:02:21 AM
Introduced in 1998, the Gerber Multi-Lite offered an alternative to a pliers based multi-tool. The concept never really took off, and the end of production occurred in the early 2000s. This is an old and somewhat dated design, although I have seen a few other similar designs, especially from Utica Kutmaster.
There were two main models, although I have read there may be as many as 4 variations of the Multi-Lite. Going from this link, I have the two main models in my collection (corkscrew and removable saw).
https://7090a624-a-78e87ce8-s-sites.googlegroups.com/a/multi-tool.org/museum/gerber-catalog-1999/Gerber_1999_Catalog-10.jpg?attachauth=ANoY7cqH62yWH_ZRtkbC6IR8qRtiHrFYKA0JtOBCFscVdzHnLyBg8Uf_BVR84xHOg8S0NzEcSGN8HHY2XcZnYk1qU2ddfnOUUTRsKhHHQI_7O6I-y8Ox9P9lelnONjhaofbU-6p8ty1afEt-QPdooiEcBLAOHq1E_yKrrHQ-UWr75nspdQuqBUL_x2nZN25JapGABzyrxi4_dSrTnNMpSfyc44UzNvfqKaZCyw0j3oayB2esPAnr2EO99Pw8OXA2YF9Q2On2PICC&attredirects=0
Now, I do like the Multi-Lite. There is a lid compartment which contains a small flat driver, a toothpick, and a pair of tweezers. Along with the compartment, there is an anemic yellow/amber/orange LED lamp that runs off of a single CR1620 button cell. The light is not strong by any stretch of the imagination. However with that said, there is enough light to get you into your house in the dark.
The Gerber Multi-Lite came in mostly two colours. The black lid for the saw, and green for the corkscrew.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0593small_zpsa9rhfcny.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0593small_zpsa9rhfcny.jpg.html)
Here is the corkscrew model, with the saw model showing the bottom side with the locking instructions stamped into the metal. The side cutouts is a design feature of the MP400...showing a little design continuity. The 3 tools that are stowed in the lid are also shown in this photograph.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0594small_zpslws33vcv.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0594small_zpslws33vcv.jpg.html)
Here are the two variations I have in my collection. Note that the saw is the same as that seen in the Gerber Multi-Lock Woodsman.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0595small_zpsbugzhprt.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0595small_zpsbugzhprt.jpg.html)
Side profile.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0596small_zpsghbw86sr.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0596small_zpsghbw86sr.jpg.html)
To access the battery, simply pull off the rubber cover.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0597small_zpslrxwttlp.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0597small_zpslrxwttlp.jpg.html)
Yes, i am a fan of the Multi-Lite because of its quirkiness. It does manage to pack a lot of tools into a boxy envelope. No pliers included, but then that was the idea.
Post by: jerseydevil on March 27, 2016, 12:19:44 AM
Post by: Chako on March 27, 2016, 12:39:30 AM
Here is an odd little keychain tool. I can't seem to find any information of when it was introduced, but I would wager it would be early to mid 2000s. This tool is now discontinued.
I have the Green Marble Keystyle. It certainly is a pretty tool featuring an iridescent Gerber logo, even though the photos do it no justice.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0598small_zpswnxkxglg.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0598small_zpswnxkxglg.jpg.html)
Odd in that it basically mimics a Victorinox Classic in an overly fat form factor. Where the Victorinox Classic is very sleek and pocket-able, the Gerber Keystyle is anything but. The tools slide in and out via a separate sliding lock mechanism for each tool except for the Fiskars scissors which for some unknown reason, do not have a locking mechanism. The scissors also have the distinction of being the only traditional swing out tool on the Keystyle.
the backside of the Keystyle showing the sliding and locking channels for each tool. To unlock a fully deployed tool, simply press down on the little black button and slide it back into the Keystyle. It works ok and is easier to use than to describe.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0599small_zpskeuvhjuu.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0599small_zpskeuvhjuu.jpg.html)
How big is this thing you may be asking yourself? Here is a side profile of the Keystyle. I would rather pocket a Victorinox Classic any day...which may explain this products relatively short production life.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0600small_zpsasyqwwap.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0600small_zpsasyqwwap.jpg.html)
The Keystyle features a small Phillips driver, a small flat head driver, a small knife blade, a small pair of scissors, and a removable toothpick.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0602small_zpswcpdiqhq.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0602small_zpswcpdiqhq.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0603small_zpsof1k8oau.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0603small_zpsof1k8oau.jpg.html)
The Keystyle does not offer anything over a Victorinox Classic. other than a much larger profile. Short tools and a fiddly design relegates this one more to a collectors shelf than as a user. One thing that the Keystyle has going for it, it is pretty enough to EDC this at a black tie party or some other formal affair.
Post by: Chako on March 27, 2016, 12:40:26 AM
Post by: Chako on March 27, 2016, 01:02:25 AM
This unique tool was introduced in 2003. Not sure who at Gerber thought that spring loaded pliers was a good idea, but there must have been enough consensus to put this somewhat dangerous tool into production. I say dangerous because the spring action is very powerful. So powerful, that I have found that the easiest way to put the pliers back into the handle is to jam the jaws on a solid surface and push hard until you hear the locking mechanism click. I jokingly call this "arming the pliers". I am not far off however with that statement.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0611small_zpsp5ukqetx.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0611small_zpsp5ukqetx.jpg.html)
To deploy the pliers, slide the circular selector from safe to ready, and press that button. To close up the tool again, push the pliers back into the tool and slide the selector back to safe.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0605small_zpsnhnksk2z.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0605small_zpsnhnksk2z.jpg.html)
The Recoil only has 4 fold out tools. You have your Fiskars scissors, a sheep foot knife blade, a combo flat driver/can opener/wire stripper, and a combo Phillips driver/bottle opener/wire cutter. The rest of the body contains a very strong spring.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0604small_zpsp31ek9dt.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0604small_zpsp31ek9dt.jpg.html)
The fold out tools do have a locking mechanism.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0608small_zpssdajdcos.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0608small_zpssdajdcos.jpg.html)
The danger zone.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0609small_zpsfmju49nl.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0609small_zpsfmju49nl.jpg.html)
What can I say about the Recoil. I think this is a very playable model. If you like to flick and fiddle with multi-tools, a Recoil is almost a needed model. It is dangerous however. the speed those pliers come out is amazing, and the amount of force required to push the pliers back into the body is a little frightening. if you get one, play safe with it. It is unique, and I do not think Gerber's design was ever copied...probably worried about lawsuits I guess. SOG has the SwitchPlier...and that is a much safer and saner design. Just saying.
Post by: derekmac on March 27, 2016, 01:57:39 AM
Post by: Poncho65 on March 27, 2016, 03:05:02 AM
These posts are great Chako :cheers: I am loving the pics and the history I am learning of Gerber :salute:
Post by: Chako on March 27, 2016, 04:15:11 AM
Introduced in 2005, the Gerber Diesel improved slightly on the venerable MP600 design. As such, I have always though of the Gerber Diesel as an updated MP600. Sporting new pivots, and taking a cue from Buck, the handles are stamped with little icons telling you where the various tools reside...at least for the larger tools.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0632small_zpstwqybohd.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0632small_zpstwqybohd.jpg.html)
By this stage, Gerber had improved the handle geometry to prevent palm pinch. The new improved pliers helped in this regard somewhat.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0634small_zpszy25dfff.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0634small_zpszy25dfff.jpg.html)
The Gerber Diesel came in stainless, black oxide, and camo finishes. My example of a stainless steel Diesel sports two Phillips drivers. Somehow at the factory, the assembler exchanged the large flat head driver for an extra Phillips.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0636small_zpserhgdo61.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0636small_zpserhgdo61.jpg.html)
A closer look at the updated cosmetics.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0637small_zpsd3jkzfpd.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0637small_zpsd3jkzfpd.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0638small_zpsimd1tn6x.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0638small_zpsimd1tn6x.jpg.html)
Here is a Camo Diesel. Note the proper tool assortment as opposed to the dual Phillips in the above example.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0640small_zps8e6j8ohh.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0640small_zps8e6j8ohh.jpg.html)
The Diesel also improved the ergonomics of the locking mechanism.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0641small_zps5kg4hdou.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0641small_zps5kg4hdou.jpg.html)
Despite these updates seen in the Diesel, the MP600 is still a very strong seller. I personally like the Diesel. I find it rattles a little less than the MP600.
Post by: Chako on March 27, 2016, 04:26:08 AM
Introduced in 2006, the Gerber Freehand took some design cues from the Diesel which preceded it by a year. Those design cues are mostly external, as the Freehand also sported a new and updated plier system that attempted to eliminate palm pinch and keep the tool as compact as possible when closed. This added a rather complex mechanism. It did the job, but it also was prone to failure, as I do recall some folks having issues with the mechanism itself.
The Gerber Freehand is a very BIG multi-tool. It is one of Gerber's largest and heaviest multi-tools ever produced. Note the movement of the locking levers to the sides of the tool.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0624small_zpsayec54nn.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0624small_zpsayec54nn.jpg.html)
All tools are outside accessible, which is a big improvement to the Diesel and older multi-tools. Now you could open them up without having to deploy the pliers first. One downfall to the Freehand are the very small secondary tools. For such a large multi-tool, the inclusion of such small tools looks farcical. Worse yet, the reach of them is almost impractical.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0626small_zps1olde1mf.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0626small_zps1olde1mf.jpg.html)
Closer look at some of the design features of the Freehand.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0627small_zpshwglhnjj.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0627small_zpshwglhnjj.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0628small_zpsdkivnemy.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0628small_zpsdkivnemy.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0629small_zpsamxoxlht.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0629small_zpsamxoxlht.jpg.html)
The Freehand is a massive multi-tool let down by very small secondary tools. it does build upon the older Diesel, and in some cases, diverges greatly from the MP600/MP400/Diesel form factor.
Post by: Chako on March 27, 2016, 04:50:31 AM
The Gerber Flik was introduced one year after the larger Freehand, back in 2007. I view the Freehand and the Flik as members of the same family. Seeing that the Freehand was such a large multi-tool, it was logical for Gerber to come out with a smaller tool. That smaller tool is the same size as the average full size multi-tool. That tool is the Flik.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0612small_zpsv4zzo1cf.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0612small_zpsv4zzo1cf.jpg.html)
Much like the Freehand, the Flik also has a very complicated pliers pivot system. When closed, the tool is very compact, or at least more so than the MP600/MP400/Diesel.
Here is a photo of a Flik closed.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0614small_zpsf43izpqa.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0614small_zpsf43izpqa.jpg.html)
pressing the buttons and sliding the pliers forward, the handles are still tightly nested against each other.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0615small_zpshkquwfks.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0615small_zpshkquwfks.jpg.html)
Towards the end, the pliers will click to a stop and the handles will wedge themselves apart. This mechanism is complex and a little unique. Much like the Freehand, this complicated mechanism have had some recorded issues in the past. I have yet to see any of these issues in my copies, but just know that the possibility of something going wrong is a possibility, however slight that may be.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0616small_zpsy2vmfrdb.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0616small_zpsy2vmfrdb.jpg.html)
Of interest, the Flik is a smaller Freehand in many ways, including the small secondary tools. However, they do not appear to be so comically small in the Flik as they appear in the much larger Freehand.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0617small_zpsmmi4hwu6.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0617small_zpsmmi4hwu6.jpg.html)
There is also a Flik Fisherman version that came out in 2009. Much like other Fisherman models in Gerber's colourful history, the Flik Fisherman differs with the specialized pliers head, and the inclusion of a nail-file with hook sharpening groove. Like all other Fisherman models, the pliers do stick out of the tool quite a bit.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0618small_zpsvhfmduzk.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0618small_zpsvhfmduzk.jpg.html)
Speaking of issues, when I took this photograph, only one side of the complicated pliers mechanism had engaged in the locked position...causing the pliers to be slightly skewed off center. When I attempted to open the tool more, it wouldn't engage until I fully pulled the pliers away from the handles. Not a big issue, but it could be depending on the circumstances.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0619small_zps97abukfu.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0619small_zps97abukfu.jpg.html)
The regular Flik with saw, and the Fisherman version which replaces the saw for a file.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0620small_zps6rlyrabu.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0620small_zps6rlyrabu.jpg.html)
A close up of the locking mechanism.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0621small_zpsucxf8g7v.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0621small_zpsucxf8g7v.jpg.html)
And one of the Fisherman pliers sticking out of the body.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0622small_zpsdcckizin.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0622small_zpsdcckizin.jpg.html)
A bonus shot for those wondering about the difference in size between the Freehand and the Flik.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0631small_zpsjqlweqmt.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0631small_zpsjqlweqmt.jpg.html)
The Flik attempted to eliminate all complaints of palm pinch, and did a good job at the expense of having a very complicated pliers pivot system. I have only had little issues such as the photo above illustrates. Much like the Freehand, the secondary tools are small and limited because of that. With all of that said, I like the Flik. If you enjoy mechanical things that just feel good in use, the Flik's opening and closing mechanism is a nice thing to behold and feel.
Post by: Demel on March 27, 2016, 05:02:06 AM
Post by: jerseydevil on March 27, 2016, 06:11:37 AM
I have a soft spot for the flik.
+1 I've enjoyed using mine. The stubby tools were no problem in regards to the work I did with it. Maybe I'll dig it out and carry it a bit......
Post by: Chako on March 27, 2016, 06:25:39 AM
Acquired by Gerber around 1996 from another company, the Cool Tool was one of the first multi-tools designed to repair bicycles. Here is a news snippet from the Cool Tool's original manufacture from the early 90s.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/490CoolTool_zpstpzrnmch.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/490CoolTool_zpstpzrnmch.jpg.html)
When Gerber started producing the Cool Tool, they also included a sheath with it. Got to love the slogan "Ride it, wreck it, repair it", and the cool mascot found on the sheath.
For more information, please visit our Multi-tool encyclopedia here...
http://wiki.multitool.org/tiki-index.php?page=Cool+Tool
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0642small_zpswf5iykq7.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0642small_zpswf5iykq7.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0643small_zps0hktkkat.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0643small_zps0hktkkat.jpg.html)
There were also a few other accessories/related items for the Cool Tool such as (Photos found on internet)...
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/BQ8-4VgWk-KGrHgoH-DIEjlLlvv6nBJ7iJG7rmw--_12_zpsxd1enxek.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/BQ8-4VgWk-KGrHgoH-DIEjlLlvv6nBJ7iJG7rmw--_12_zpsxd1enxek.jpg.html)
The Quick Release tool combines the functions of the seatpost clamp quick-release with a 4-5-6mm allen wrench, 14/15ga spoke wrenches, and a 10mm box wrench
and
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/_1_zpszhtykokl.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/_1_zpszhtykokl.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/_57%203_zpsbok0jtyo.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/_57%203_zpsbok0jtyo.jpg.html)
and
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/_57_zpsbzlaifud.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/_57_zpsbzlaifud.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/_57%202_zpsk3s7vqvs.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/_57%202_zpsk3s7vqvs.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/_57%201_zpsoic7ezhv.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/_57%201_zpsoic7ezhv.jpg.html)
Being a little difficult to find these days, the Cool tool is a cool addition to any collection.
Post by: Chako on March 27, 2016, 06:57:10 AM
Introduced in 2000, the Gerber MultiPlier 800 Legend was a departure for Gerber. This is Gerber's first butterfly opening mulit-tool.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0645small_zpszytytso2.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0645small_zpszytytso2.jpg.html)
Note the side tool lock levers.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0646small_zpski4y7jrt.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0646small_zpski4y7jrt.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0647small_zpsuwlcieq1.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0647small_zpsuwlcieq1.jpg.html)
The Legend 800 is feature rich, including a removable saw blade, a feature seen on premium Gerber models.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0648small_zpse7u3szrj.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0648small_zpse7u3szrj.jpg.html)
Some design features of the Legend 800.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0649small_zpsefeiznkz.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0649small_zpsefeiznkz.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0650small_zpsybb9rt5b.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0650small_zpsybb9rt5b.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0651small_zpseyu3tiy9.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0651small_zpseyu3tiy9.jpg.html)
Post by: Chako on March 27, 2016, 07:09:04 AM
The Gerber Urban Legend 700 was released either in 2001 or 2002 by my best guess. It is smaller than the Legend 800, and has some weirdness associated with it that is a bit puzzling. For instance, there is an attached pair of tweezers included in the tool set. You can tell it is the smaller sibling of the Legend 800 as it follows all of the 800's design cues.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0652small_zpsrhqmleiu.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0652small_zpsrhqmleiu.jpg.html)
You can see the odd attached pair of tweezers.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0653small_zpsvcqm2wrk.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0653small_zpsvcqm2wrk.jpg.html)
Looks like a Legend 800 except for more black here and there.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0654small_zpsg1negqk7.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0654small_zpsg1negqk7.jpg.html)
No removable saw blade in the Urban Legend 700.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0655small_zpsq2tg645r.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0655small_zpsq2tg645r.jpg.html)
There was also a special edition Terminator 3 version that features a few cosmetic differences.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0657small_zpstgtshsz4.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0657small_zpstgtshsz4.jpg.html)
The most significant change aside form the colour and handle branding, are the pliers.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0658small_zps0eezssig.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0658small_zps0eezssig.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0659small_zps03nekv6y.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0659small_zps03nekv6y.jpg.html)
Of interest, there was also a T3 MP400 and MP600 produced by Gerber. Seeing as the movie came out in 2003, these T3 Gerbers date to that time.
Post by: Chako on March 27, 2016, 04:29:20 PM
2010 saw a new model for Gerber, and one that is of some interest. The Grappler has the distinction of being the first and only (to date) locking pliers multi-tool from Gerber.
It is roughly the same size as the Gerber Freehand. This makes the Grappler a BIG tool.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0661small_zpssji8g3ub.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0661small_zpssji8g3ub.jpg.html)
Much of the body is relegated to a single channel that holds the pliers and sliding/locking mechanism. The fold out tools are located on the exterior of this channel. I like to think of these as outboard pods.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0662small_zpsgcfzzzxo.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0662small_zpsgcfzzzxo.jpg.html)
There is only one single sliding mechanism as opposed to the standard two seen on the majority of Gerber sliding pliers head designs.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0663small_zps1zgmz2ej.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0663small_zps1zgmz2ej.jpg.html)
One deployed, the jaws are skewed away from center. You can also see the somewhat difficult to get to adjustment knurl nestled inside the body. I say difficult to get if you have largish fingers.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0664small_zpslwrpbjnr.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0664small_zpslwrpbjnr.jpg.html)
Taking a design cue from the older Recoil, you get 4 longish folding tools.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0665small_zpsbb7lufdd.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0665small_zpsbb7lufdd.jpg.html)
Some closer details of the jaw pivot.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0666small_zpsfi9f0aot.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0666small_zpsfi9f0aot.jpg.html)
Here you can see the design limitations. It would have been better if that knurl could have been larger. There was room actually to do this as the handles are cut out already. Regardless, it is still a functional design that works.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0667small_zpsprlndpjs.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0667small_zpsprlndpjs.jpg.html)
When closed, the whole sliding mechanism mates with a hook on the inside ensuring the tool doesn't open when fully closed.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0668small_zps7huqk5xi.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0668small_zps7huqk5xi.jpg.html)
The Gerber Grappler definitely follows some Gerber design cues from older models. Designed to compete with the much older and more elegant Leatherman Crunch, there just aren't that many locking pliers multi-tools out there. Especially those that fold into a smaller package. For that reason, the Gerber Grappler is a noteworthy multi-tool.
Post by: Chako on March 27, 2016, 04:53:07 PM
Now for something completely unique in the multi-tool world...or at least as far as I know. The Gerber Steady was introduced in 2012, and is aimed at the picture taking market segment.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0669small_zpsr0mqmtyw.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0669small_zpsr0mqmtyw.jpg.html)
How you may wonder is it aimed at the photography world you may ask? The Steady comes with a small camera mount screw on a tiny ball head. There are also two tripod legs that pull out nestled one on each side of the Steady (which lends the tool its name). The third leg of the tripod is the Steady's posterior.
Here, you can see the small camera mounting screw.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0671small_zpsakp3q5js.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0671small_zpsakp3q5js.jpg.html)
I am not a big fan of curved handles, but the Steady didn't cause me any issues...possibly due to the very grippy textured surface. The Steady is a butterfly opening tool and not a sliding pliers design.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0672small_zpsbd1cxfku.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0672small_zpsbd1cxfku.jpg.html)
The tool selection offers both a large and small knife blade, along with that unique camera mounting screw.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0674small_zpsmfttawwh.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0674small_zpsmfttawwh.jpg.html)
Here is a small video camera mounted onto the Stead with both legs deployed. The green sections are made from a very grippy soft textured rubber.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0676small_zpssv9r4jae.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0676small_zpssv9r4jae.jpg.html)
The side arms fold and are kept there by a slot. To deploy the arms, simply rotate the arm outwards and bend them into position at the hinge.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0677small_zpsnmcyspjk.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0677small_zpsnmcyspjk.jpg.html)
A closer look at the camera screw and mini ball mount. My first though when I saw the Steady, was the eventual wear and tear on the plastic part that holds the ball mount in place would eventually lead to any device mounted on it to flop around. However, I assume upon closer inspection that there is an adjustment screw to tighten the mount located just behind the ball mount. If that is the case, then you can control the tension, which is a nice feature to ensure your camera or cell phone will remain in position.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0678small_zpshxlgnz26.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0678small_zpshxlgnz26.jpg.html)
On the other side, two folding tools and the two tripod arms.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0679small_zps5gg0bvrm.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0679small_zps5gg0bvrm.jpg.html)
A good view of the textured surface.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0680small_zpsu942rhdi.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0680small_zpsu942rhdi.jpg.html)
A quirky multi-tool. Now if only Gerber had figured a way to incorporate a selfie stick into the design, just imagine how many more units they would have sold. :think: :)
Post by: Chako on March 27, 2016, 05:15:40 PM
Part of the Myth line of hunting gear by Gerber, the Myth Archery Tool is something a little different in the Gerber product lineup. This tool was first introduced in 2013 with product reaching the market towards the later part of 2013 and early 2014.
What also makes the Myth Archery Tool a little unique is the forbearance of a set of pliers for an adjustable wrench. Adjustable wrench multi-tools are not as common as plier based multi-tools.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0681small_zpsqrt4ufja.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0681small_zpsqrt4ufja.jpg.html)
Because this is aimed squarely at the archer, you do get a few hex keys with a Phillips and flat driver.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0682small_zpswygjf4sc.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0682small_zpswygjf4sc.jpg.html)
On the back side, are two little paddles that when depressed will aid in extracting those Hex keys.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0685small_zps21ojguvj.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0685small_zps21ojguvj.jpg.html)
A closer look at that smooth jawed adjustable wrench.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0686small_zps4fd5dxi7.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0686small_zps4fd5dxi7.jpg.html)
On the back, is a nifty broad head wrench.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0688small_zpswuj5zlxf.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0688small_zpswuj5zlxf.jpg.html)
The Gerber Myth Archery Tool is a specific tool for a specific market. It is a little unique in the world of multi-tools as it is based around a smooth surfaced adjustable wrench. There are other archery specific tools out there by other companies, and most of them are pliers based.
Post by: Chako on March 27, 2016, 05:22:00 PM
This squarish tool came out the same time as the Myth Archery Tool. It is also part of the same Myth family, which also contains numerous knife blades, and other hunting accessories. The colour scheme for the Myth series is a muddy brown with a black rubber surface on some parts.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0689small_zpsccbnctjz.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0689small_zpsccbnctjz.jpg.html)
A top view of the back showing the large sliding tool lock lever.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0690small_zpswwgyncri.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0690small_zpswwgyncri.jpg.html)
A top view of the bottom. Note the black housing on the left that houses a 1 foot spring retractable measuring tape.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0691small_zps3ak95slw.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0691small_zps3ak95slw.jpg.html)
The Myth Shotgun tool does offer a nice sized knife blade, along with a saw, a dis assembly punch pin, and a universal shotgun choke wrench. The tool also has a measuring tape.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0692small_zpsrf7szeks.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0692small_zpsrf7szeks.jpg.html)
Looking at the back of the tool, the measuring tape.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0694small_zpsxndib2ck.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0694small_zpsxndib2ck.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0695small_zpsauc4rdx3.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0695small_zpsauc4rdx3.jpg.html)
Another Myth product for the hunting market segment, the Shotgun Tool offers a lot in a boxy package.
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 03:24:38 AM
Gerber's parent company is Fiskars. Fiskars is well known for their scissors. In 2003, Gerber produced a little key-chain scissors based multitool. That model is the Solstice.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0699small_zpsirrxjebs.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0699small_zpsirrxjebs.jpg.html)
The handles rotate around a pivot point. When closed, they physically keep the spring loaded scissors closed. There is also a small circular cutout in the base of the scissors for a keyring.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0700small_zpsmpw971i8.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0700small_zpsmpw971i8.jpg.html)
Note that the blade is stamped Taiwan.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0701small_zpsylluicss.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0701small_zpsylluicss.jpg.html)
The Eclipse reminds me of several older designs that are larger than this one, but are pliers based and not made by Gerber. This type of design, with rotating handles, is always a little fiddly.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0707small_zpsjle1xyyk.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0707small_zpsjle1xyyk.jpg.html)
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 03:33:30 AM
The following year, 2004, the Gerber Solstice came out. Now if I thought the Eclipse was fiddly, the Solstice takes that to a whole new level. Much like the Eclipse, the Stolstice's handles rotate around a pivot point. They also keep the spring loaded scissors closed. Opening them is a little tricky as the scissors tend to want to jump open once the handles go past a certain point. Worse yet, there are two extra folding tools that tend to get in the way.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0702small_zpseat2mavl.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0702small_zpseat2mavl.jpg.html)
Does this tool resemble Swiss+Tech gear? Yes it most certainly does when looking at that flat and Phillips drivers at the end of each arm.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0703small_zpsfihycbdf.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0703small_zpsfihycbdf.jpg.html)
The two fold out tools are a bottle opener and can opener. They tend to get in the way when trying to deploy the scissors. At least there are ledges inside each handle that prevents these tools from rotating past the horizon...so they will only rotate in one direction from rest. That helps in keeping down the handful that this tool's design represents.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0704small_zpspamexwwy.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0704small_zpspamexwwy.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0705small_zpssjq0ji1p.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0705small_zpssjq0ji1p.jpg.html)
You can use a keyring much like the Eclipse, or you can run a lanyard through that hole in one of the handles.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0706small_zpszv4yirjx.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0706small_zpszv4yirjx.jpg.html)
I have a soft spot for this tool as it was the first Gerber I ever bought. A local store placed these on a clearance shelf. I didn't pay much for it. I gather the Eclipse and Solstice didn't sell very well as there are no successors to this line. However, as we will see in the next episode, the flame didn't die on the scissors based multi-tool...it just took a different form...or should I say, a pair of forms.
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 03:40:59 AM
Introduced in 2005, the Gerber Clutch and Shortcut are keychain sized multi-tools that ushered in a concept at Gerber. The introduction of two models, one with scissors and one with pliers.
The Shortcut is the scissors bearing member of this duo.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0711small_zpsap9b444y.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0711small_zpsap9b444y.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0712small_zpst03av3qy.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0712small_zpst03av3qy.jpg.html)
For their size, these have a nice feature set.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0714small_zpso2wca2oj.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0714small_zpso2wca2oj.jpg.html)
The Gerber Clutch is the pliers based version of this duo.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0708small_zpsmieozhfn.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0708small_zpsmieozhfn.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0709small_zpstevawrqo.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0709small_zpstevawrqo.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0710small_zpslus5rbee.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0710small_zpslus5rbee.jpg.html)
Thus the torch of the Eclipse and Solstice was passed onto the Shortcut. However, you can also get the Clutch...having the option of either pliers or scissors...that made perfect sense.
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 03:49:01 AM
The Gerber Shortcut and Clutch held the fort until 2009, when the Gerber Splice and Vice were introduced. These are a little smaller than their predecessors.
My copy of the Splice is pink, but they came in different colours. As you can guess, the Splice bears scissors.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0715small_zpsxosueo53.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0715small_zpsxosueo53.jpg.html)
These are spring loaded much like the older Shortcut.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0716small_zpsezbiix8o.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0716small_zpsezbiix8o.jpg.html)
The tool load-out did change. For one thing, the file got a lot smaller and is now the side of the flat Phillips driver. You do gain a serrated blade. The bottle opener is improved via a wider cap lifter (there is also a flat driver affixed to one side of the cap lifter).
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0717small_zpswrz702lc.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0717small_zpswrz702lc.jpg.html)
The Gerber Vice is the pliers based version.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0718small_zpsfdggupyz.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0718small_zpsfdggupyz.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0719small_zpsab5vfhlw.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0719small_zpsab5vfhlw.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0720small_zps6w61oie7.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0720small_zps6w61oie7.jpg.html)
Not much more to say about these. They are slightly smaller than their predecessor and offer slightly different functionality.
Post by: Poncho65 on March 28, 2016, 05:19:49 AM
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 05:38:40 AM
Introduced in 2009, the Gerber Curve is a very small and compact key-chain multi-tool. The Gerber Curve also does not have pliers, much like the older Gerber Multi-Lite.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0721small_zpsaqheirtl.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0721small_zpsaqheirtl.jpg.html)
The Gerber Curve offers a combo bottle opener/carabiner on the tail end, a knife blade, large and small flat head driver, and a Phillips driver. All the tool lock.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0722small_zpsgwicmvc8.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0722small_zpsgwicmvc8.jpg.html)
Top down view.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0723small_zpsiueeqhdm.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0723small_zpsiueeqhdm.jpg.html)
And on the other side.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0724small_zpsolwyimj4.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0724small_zpsolwyimj4.jpg.html)
The Curve is very small and wouldn't be a chore to carry on your key-chain.
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 05:39:37 AM
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 05:50:24 AM
I could not nail the release date of the Gerber Nautilus...so if I had to guess, I would say early to mid 2000's. I am hedging more towards 2003/2004 for a release date from what I could find online.
Irrespective, the Gerber Nautilus is an odder duck from a company that likes to make odd ducks. Called the Nautiolus due to its oddly nautical shape, the tool features a spring loaded LED flashlight. The flashlight has 4 functions. press the button once, and the front LED will light up. Press it a second time and the front will turn off and the bottom LED will light. Press is a third time and both will turn on. Press it a forth time and the bottom will turn off and the front will strobe. Press it once more, and all will shut off.
Someone online called the Nautilus..."the shrimp". I kind of like that.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0746small_zpshykop5sj.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0746small_zpshykop5sj.jpg.html)
The backside doesn't have much to see.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0727small_zpsqwx5pp7s.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0727small_zpsqwx5pp7s.jpg.html)
The other side is more visual. That button that sticks out on the left top side, released the spring loaded flashlight.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0728small_zpsbjhfwe8a.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0728small_zpsbjhfwe8a.jpg.html)
On tap is a nice sized blade, a combo bottle opener/flat head driver, a Phillips driver, and a unique designed pair of Fiskars scissors. Unique in that the handle has a little finger loop. A loop that is too small for my big fingers I may add, but it is visually striking. on the opposite end is the LED flashlight housing.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0730small_zps7poedz2u.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0730small_zps7poedz2u.jpg.html)
All the tools lock via these locking levers.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0731small_zpsbd9gh11l.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0731small_zpsbd9gh11l.jpg.html)
On the opposite end is the LED flashlight release button, and the on/off button on the flashlight housing (blue oval).
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0732small_zpsues3doqu.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0732small_zpsues3doqu.jpg.html)
The Nautilus is strange. The Curved body is very stylish, but it comes at the cost of comfort, especially with those with big hands. The LED flashlight is ok...but more modern LEDs are far brighter than they are on this now discontinued tool.
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 06:00:22 AM
Released in 2008, the Gerber Shard is a very nice OPT (One Piece Tool). It offers a Phillips driver, a bottle opener, a lanyard hole, and a mini pry bar/nail puller. The pry bar section is slightly curved for ease of use and practicality.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0733small_zpsipntkblk.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0733small_zpsipntkblk.jpg.html)
My copy has multitool.org etched onto the back side.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0734small_zps6tpna901.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0734small_zps6tpna901.jpg.html)
Next up its the Shards larger cousin, the Artifact. Beyond what the Shard offers, the Artifact also gives you an X-Acto blade which rotates around a pivot point.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0735small_zpszrowagy3.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0735small_zpszrowagy3.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0736small_zpsltkfllxq.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0736small_zpsltkfllxq.jpg.html)
The removable blade locks via a liner lock on the body.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0737small_zpsdjvjjfvq.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0737small_zpsdjvjjfvq.jpg.html)
Both the Gerber Shard and Artifact are nice little tools. The Artifact is slightly larger than the Shard, but also offers an X-Acto blade.
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 06:17:24 AM
I do not have much on this particular tool other than it came with a small folding knife. I do think the Guardian line is either a Fiskars econo line, or a Gerber econo line. I am not sure which. Either way, it does belong here as it is under the Fiskars company umbrella.
Not much to say about this...so I will let the photo do most of the talking.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0738small_zps1fh20gjk.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0738small_zps1fh20gjk.jpg.html)
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 06:25:23 AM
The successor to the Gerber Vice and Splice, the Gerber Dime came out in 2012.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0739small_zpsczdhqgua.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0739small_zpsczdhqgua.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0740small_zpswpambgoo.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0740small_zpswpambgoo.jpg.html)
The bottle opener is a little odd in that it sticks out of one end of the multi-tool. it also doubles at a lanyard attachment point.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0741small_zps02qbrzxa.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0741small_zps02qbrzxa.jpg.html)
Unlike the older models, the Dime is offers as only a pliers model. They are spring loaded at that.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0742small_zpsoucxkdqw.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0742small_zpsoucxkdqw.jpg.html)
The Gerber Dime has the same Phillips/file combo seen in the Vice and Splice. It also offers scissors, a knife blade, flat driver, bottle opener, and a package opening blade.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0743small_zpsukf0k3mg.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0743small_zpsukf0k3mg.jpg.html)
There is a variation of the Dime, called the Dime Travel.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0744small_zpss4xyf1bs.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0744small_zpss4xyf1bs.jpg.html)
The Dime Travel exchanges all the not allowed at an airport knife and package blade for a file and hook.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0745small_zps91c03k1a.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0745small_zps91c03k1a.jpg.html)
The Dime has had its fair share of quality control issues. On the other hand, the Dime does offer a lot in a small package in regards to packing scissors in such a small package.
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 07:57:16 AM
First introduced in 2005, the Gerber Suspension and the tools based on that design represented for a long time, Gerber's value priced line. Many of the models were sold at different stores. In fact, many of these were designed to certain store chain specs. Either way, the Suspension is the forefather of the lineup and is the tool that all the others were based upon. All in this family for the exception of one model, are carbon copies of the Suspension, differing only in the looks of the handles. The Tread is the sole exception...but more on that later.
Gerber Suspension
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0747small_zpstu7gln4v.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0747small_zpstu7gln4v.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0755small_zpslddgoful.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0755small_zpslddgoful.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0756small_zpshess28ru.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0756small_zpshess28ru.jpg.html)
The Suspension has a bad reputation for its low brow construction, but it was a good seller. It is in fact not that bad at all. You will note the general shape that I consider is the General Chinese multi-tool shape such as those produced by Ganzo. However, the Gerbers feature locking tool sets.
Gerber Method
Released in 2007, the Gerber Method is nothing more than a re-badged Suspension.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0748small_zpsxvalgt3z.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0748small_zpsxvalgt3z.jpg.html)
Gerber Ripstop
Another Suspension Clone that came out in 2007.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0749small_zpsxjtrilql.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0749small_zpsxjtrilql.jpg.html)
Gerber Evo
You get the picture.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0750small_zpsbcrgwtz1.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0750small_zpsbcrgwtz1.jpg.html)
Gerber Resolve
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0751small_zpswcu4ftko.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0751small_zpswcu4ftko.jpg.html)
Gerber Crux
There are two variations of the Crux. The regular black version, and a blue which was an exclusive of an American store chain.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0753small_zpsgnydcrqo.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0753small_zpsgnydcrqo.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0752small_zpslawmcmaw.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0752small_zpslawmcmaw.jpg.html)
Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Multi-tool
Yes, even this is a Suspension in disguise.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0759small_zpsjkjm5auc.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0759small_zpsjkjm5auc.jpg.html)
Gerber Tread
Of the series, this is the only unique model that differs from the Suspension. The Tread has a built in LED flashlight in one handle which is turned on and off via a sliding switch that mimics the sliding tool lock lever on the other handle.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0754small_zpscpi1ovzw.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0754small_zpscpi1ovzw.jpg.html)
The Tread has a sheepsfoot blade, a pair of Fiskars scissors, a flat head driver, and Philips driver. The LED flashlight takes up the other handle.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0757small_zpsdz6iq1ip.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0757small_zpsdz6iq1ip.jpg.html)
Overall, these aren't that bad. They do have a bad reputation because they represent a no frills basic design, one that is very popular in generic multi-tools the world over. They do suffer from being bulky for their size. They are economical models, but honest ones that offer locking tools...something that most generic multi-tools of the same general shape do not offer.
Post by: tosh on March 28, 2016, 10:23:45 AM
What do you do with all the boxes and pouches?
All mine are kept in both their pouch and box simply because I wouldn't remember the pouch/model combination :facepalm:
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 01:28:50 PM
Post by: firiki on March 28, 2016, 01:46:01 PM
There's a small problem though: almost no-one reads the stickies ::) :-\
Post by: tosh on March 28, 2016, 02:05:24 PM
Wow, Chako has probably surpassed himself with this Gerber Episodes series :salute:
There's a small problem though: almost no-one reads the stickies ::) :-\
Have to agree on the sticky point - this is the first time I've ever replied to a thread once it's been made sticky - it's almost like they become invisible!!
Post by: WiseDuck on March 28, 2016, 02:29:31 PM
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 06:16:05 PM
First introduced in 2010, the Gerber Strata is a buttery fly opening mulit-tool. This tool is very popular and it does have a lot going for it. However, I have had one issue with this tool that in my mind, makes this a somewhat dangerous tool in a special circumstance. The first time I attempted to close the scissors, I thought I had folded the scissors fully to stow it away, I was a little distracted and the scissors snapped close fooling me into thinking I could then palm the handles closed. I was wrong and nearly punctured my palm. I am in the minority on this, but I think a little re-design would fix this issue. I even created a little video for you to understand what I am saying here.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MoPB1r2sRaU&feature=youtu.be
Unfortunately, the Bear Grylls model exhibits the same issue. It is rare when such an issue does come up in a multi-tool design that makes it to the public...so to me, this was worthy of notice. On the other hand, plenty of folks have used and loved their Strata with nary an issue. My point is to be just aware of the danger. It is an easy one to mitigate.
The Strata does have nice clean lines.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0762small_zpsgnryxe70.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0762small_zpsgnryxe70.jpg.html)
Removable carbide cutters, and a nice tool load-out rounds out what the Strata has to offer.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0764small_zpsokkey23r.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0764small_zpsokkey23r.jpg.html)
The Bear Grylls version is officially called "The Bear Grylls Survival Tool Pack". This is basically a Strata dressed up in BG livery. One thing I do like about the BG version over the Strata, the locking levers use soft rubber which makes them a lot easier to operate without slipping off a finger or thumb. The Bear Grylls Survial Tool Pack comes with a nice soft rubber/hard plastic sheath, a flashlight, and fire-steel.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0761small_zpsae07hd6e.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0761small_zpsae07hd6e.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0767small_zpsdqs5xpvi.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0767small_zpsdqs5xpvi.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0768small_zpsjhijnzqf.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0768small_zpsjhijnzqf.jpg.html)
I do like the Strata. If you are not me, you will be fine for the most part. I mean, the issue I found was due to my inattentiveness. So do not let me dissuade you into getting the Strata.
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 06:24:46 PM
Also introduced in 2010, the Gerber Octane was a new take on the folding pliers design that Gerber is famous for. The Octane definitely looks a lot more modern. It also came in two colours, the red pictured here, and a gray colour. The Octane is also considered a light to medium multi-tool...more along the lines of an MP400.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0769small_zps634nsgsg.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0769small_zps634nsgsg.jpg.html)
The Octane comes with a built in pocket clip, and a bottle opener.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0770small_zpssyrizwyj.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0770small_zpssyrizwyj.jpg.html)
The handles and pliers are both curved. The handles are very comfortable and ergonomic. The angled pliers actually makes the tool a little easier to use. You get a nice sized knife blade with a short serrated section, the usual assortment of Phillips and flat drivers, and a small package opening blade.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0772small_zps5mr7nxpd.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0772small_zps5mr7nxpd.jpg.html)
The Gerber Octane is a neat little and well made multi-tool. I do appreciate the design, and the modernization of the sliding piers category.
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 06:42:41 PM
The Gerber Crucial is a butterfly opening multi-tool that came out in 2009. Since that time, there have been various versions introduced.
The Crucial line are compact, but all feature curved handles. This makes using the Crucial a little harder for those with big hands as they tend to want to slide up towards the pliers in use. With that in mind, I have always felt that the Crucial line gained design appeal at the cost of some ergonomics.
The original Crucial is defined by having a folding carabiner.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0781small_zps6gnet4l3.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0781small_zps6gnet4l3.jpg.html)
All Crucial models include a built in pocket clip.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0782small_zpsog63usna.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0782small_zpsog63usna.jpg.html)
The knife blade features a liner lock, and you get your usual flat and Phillips drivers.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0783small_zpsf84alna6.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0783small_zpsf84alna6.jpg.html)
There is also a corkscrew model. Note the slightly different green compared to the one shown above.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0777small_zpsm8w8epnp.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0777small_zpsm8w8epnp.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0778small_zpskjuugwqj.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0778small_zpskjuugwqj.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0780small_zpsdgqnqkyl.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0780small_zpsdgqnqkyl.jpg.html)
And the Crucial Black or Tactical which features a belt cutter.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0784small_zpsk6itt09p.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0784small_zpsk6itt09p.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0786small_zps9oo59vkc.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0786small_zps9oo59vkc.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0788small_zpsjjyx26tg.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0788small_zpsjjyx26tg.jpg.html)
And in 2011, the Gerber F.A.S.T was introduced. Basically a Crucial with a spring assist knife blade.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0773small_zpsuef18uvt.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0773small_zpsuef18uvt.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0774small_zpsiki4k4ij.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0774small_zpsiki4k4ij.jpg.html)
Slide that oval switch and gently touch the knife stud and the blade should deploy quickly. To lock it back in, you have to slide the oval switch and manually fold the blade back into the tool.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0775small_zpsmw0xjtvp.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0775small_zpsmw0xjtvp.jpg.html)
Because of the spring assembly taking valuable space, the Crucial F.A.S.T does have a different tool load-out consisting of a combo Phillips driver/bottle opener, and a longer flat head driver. Of course the star attraction, the assist knife blade.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0776small_zps0ojia0da.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0776small_zps0ojia0da.jpg.html)
The Gerber Crucial has proven to be quite the little family, with different variations produced. It isn't a bad little multi-tool, but I do feel that the curved handles are not very ergonomic for folks with larger hands.
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 08:30:32 PM
This tool has the distinction of being one of my first Gerber purchases. It also has the dubious distinction of being my most disliked model from Gerber. That is just a personal opinion however...but I will get into more of that later.
Introduced in 2007, the Gerber Radius is a very largish brutish multi-tool that strikes very high on ergonomics oddly enough with its odd shaped handles. Note how the folded tools open. It is all a bit twisted actually. See, I am trying very hard to be objective here. I did say something nice about the Radius.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0790small_zpsidguyicx.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0790small_zpsidguyicx.jpg.html)
The first impression of the Radius is a overly plasticy/rubbery behemoth.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0791small_zpsqocwzusk.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0791small_zpsqocwzusk.jpg.html)
That impression doesn't get better once you open this up. There is metal in there somewhere...it is just buried deep. All you see and feel is rubber and plastic. When you go to put any pressure on the handles, it all sort of bends and flexes quite a bit.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0792small_zpsmdvhkbya.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0792small_zpsmdvhkbya.jpg.html)
As mentioned before, the tools open off axis from what you usually see on other multi-tools. One side contains a very short and fat knife. The Phillips driver is of a good length.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0793small_zpsvqbdl0wc.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0793small_zpsvqbdl0wc.jpg.html)
The other handle offers a combo cap lifter/flat head driver, and a set of Fiskars scissors.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0794small_zpsgn9ksf9h.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0794small_zpsgn9ksf9h.jpg.html)
There is some metal in there somewhere.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0795small_zpsjdv5ys8e.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0795small_zpsjdv5ys8e.jpg.html)
The Radius is an interesting model that suffers from size and material choice.
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 08:41:45 PM
Introduced in 2011, the Gerber Fit is an interesting departure from the companies usual fare. That is saying something as Gerber has always been a risk taker in product design. What makes the Fit a little different, the Gerber Fit is a multi-tool flashlight.
The Gerber Fit has very nice sculpting.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0796small_zpsyasperaw.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0796small_zpsyasperaw.jpg.html)
You get a combo 1/4" driver/bottle opener with included double ended bit, scissors, a half serrated knife, micro flat and Phillips drivers, and of course the 22 lumen LED flashlight.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0797small_zpshangygk6.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0797small_zpshangygk6.jpg.html)
Included is a nice little pair of tweezers.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0800small_zpswawbyyda.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0800small_zpswawbyyda.jpg.html)
A front shot showing the body design, LED flashlight lens, and on/off button.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0801small_zpsgqriub8f.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0801small_zpsgqriub8f.jpg.html)
The Gerber Fit Light Tool is very interesting. It is ergonomic, and offers nice features in a low power flashlight.
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 08:53:58 PM
Introduced in 2012, the Gerber Balance in many ways, is based on the Gerber Fit based on design. I say this as you can see many design cues on the Balance first seen on the Fit. Rounded edges and gentle curves makes for a very ergonomic tool.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0803small_zpswc1vxqui.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0803small_zpswc1vxqui.jpg.html)
The Balance is a sliding pliers design, however, there is only a single centrally mounted sliding pliers mechanism that can be a little fiddly in operation. You have to press the sliding central button to unlock the mechanism. Simply let it go to lock the mechanism as the button is spring loaded.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0804small_zpspumvysw7.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0804small_zpspumvysw7.jpg.html)
A side profile view showing the sculpting, much like the Fit Light Tool.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0805small_zpsztjtorjo.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0805small_zpsztjtorjo.jpg.html)
The pliers are a little small for the wide body.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0806small_zps44hjxzgg.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0806small_zps44hjxzgg.jpg.html)
I guess the Balance is called the Balance due to the two matching mini drivers. Included are two double ended bits, scissors, and a half serrated knife blade.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0807small_zpsi5lamotl.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0807small_zpsi5lamotl.jpg.html)
Like the Fit, you get a very similar pair of tweezers.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0808small_zpsouv0tdpf.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0808small_zpsouv0tdpf.jpg.html)
The Gerber Balance in interesting due to its execution in design. It sure is different from the rest of the Gerber fare with a clear nod to the Fit.
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 09:03:23 PM
Introduced in 2013, The Gerber Bullrush, in my mind, is the Gerber Crucial successor in many ways.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0809small_zpsbsqbprum.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0809small_zpsbsqbprum.jpg.html)
The handles are made from textured G 10 that offers the hand a lot of purchase.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0810small_zpsjteewt8j.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0810small_zpsjteewt8j.jpg.html)
Note the slight curves handles...which is why I think the designers based this off of the Crucial. Both are butterfly opening multi-tools at that.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0811small_zpsk60ziqme.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0811small_zpsk60ziqme.jpg.html)
The tool selection is somewhat limited to a half serrated knife blade, a belt cutter, a flat head driver, and a Phillips driver.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0812small_zpsxu7u9qhe.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0812small_zpsxu7u9qhe.jpg.html)
A side view.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0813small_zpsywswliak.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0813small_zpsywswliak.jpg.html)
The Gerber Bullrush was designed with first responders and law enforcement in mind. It is a compact multi-tool that offers a few key features in that regard. I still think this is an upscale Crucial, as the designs are very similar.
Post by: Chako on March 28, 2016, 09:10:26 PM
Introduced in 2013, the Gerber MP1 is a premium product commanding premium prices. It is touted as a professional tool for professionals. Much like the Bullrush, the MP1 has textures G 10 handles. Both the Bullrush and MP1 share the same design elements.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0814small_zpsaburye3w.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0814small_zpsaburye3w.jpg.html)
This is a nice tool, but I have found the driver to be a chore to use as it is off center.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0815small_zpsevm9dltl.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0815small_zpsevm9dltl.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0816small_zpsx0ibs71l.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0816small_zpsx0ibs71l.jpg.html)
The pliers are spring loaded.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0817small_zpsvfi0vphi.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0817small_zpsvfi0vphi.jpg.html)
The MP1 offers both a fine and serrated blade, small and large flat driver, utility blade/scraper, pry bar, and bottle opener.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0818small_zpsrvqaj4sp.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0818small_zpsrvqaj4sp.jpg.html)
The MP1 is a very nice piece, but it does command a premium when it comes to purchase price. I did find the off center screw driver was not ideal in use.
Post by: sLaughterMed on March 28, 2016, 09:45:51 PM
Post by: Chako on March 29, 2016, 01:39:02 AM
A recent product designed to maintain and clean AR rifles for the military. As the name suggests, it is based upon the MP1 design.
The sheath is very nice with two internal compartments. One for the driver bits in their carrier, and the other for the multi-tool. It is MOLLE compliant.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0820small_zpsrhab9hzv.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0820small_zpsrhab9hzv.jpg.html)
Here is the tool and driver bits. Note the different handle finish as opposed the MP1.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0821small_zpsjtlghqf7.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0821small_zpsjtlghqf7.jpg.html)
I am somewhat surprised Gerber didn't decide to black out those sliding lock mechanism and the pliers.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0822small_zpsni8toaul.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0822small_zpsni8toaul.jpg.html)
Like the MP1, the pliers are spring loaded.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0824small_zpssciuercx.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0824small_zpssciuercx.jpg.html)
There is a good amount of specialized tools. You get a dental pick carbon scraper, a carbon scraper, trigger assembly pin punch, sight adjustment tool, dis-assembly pin punch, along with a plain and serrated blade, and 1/4" driver with detachable bits.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0825small_zpsui28tju7.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0825small_zpsui28tju7.jpg.html)
A closer look at the handles.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0826small_zpstlxclmdn.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0826small_zpstlxclmdn.jpg.html)
The driver is still bent off center.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0828small_zps7n3n4not.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0828small_zps7n3n4not.jpg.html)
A closer look at the trigger assembly pin punch. The 4 prong sight adjustment bit is right next to the pin punch.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0829small_zps0dqv6q8e.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0829small_zps0dqv6q8e.jpg.html)
2 longer driver bits are also included.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0830small_zpsyyhxm5yz.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0830small_zpsyyhxm5yz.jpg.html)
This is a nice tool for maintaining and servicing AR weapons. Reminds me somewhat of the Multitasker.
Post by: Chako on March 29, 2016, 01:51:16 AM
Rolled out in 2011, this military tool is the coms tech's best friend. Designed to work on satellite, Fiber optics, and IT cable systems, the Cable Dawg is a rather largish tool.
My copy is the Coyote brown version...which basically denotes the colour of the sheath. Now the Sheath is very nice and of high quality.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0831small_zpsgo4rwtas.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0831small_zpsgo4rwtas.jpg.html)
Here is the Cable Dawg removed from the sheath. This tool is a handful.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0832small_zpszsf8iaxe.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0832small_zpszsf8iaxe.jpg.html)
Armed with all sort of useful goodies such as an RJ45 crimper, Cat5 jack cutter, wire strippers, cable/wire cutters, and a combo knife with jacket cutter. There is even a handle that is removable, and the other contains driver bits in a rotational caddy.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0833small_zpsixjgg1qd.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0833small_zpsixjgg1qd.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0834small_zpsvkxvzzjg.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0834small_zpsvkxvzzjg.jpg.html)
The tool unlocked.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0835small_zpsrtky4jlw.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0835small_zpsrtky4jlw.jpg.html)
And here is an exploded view of what the Cable Dawg has to offer.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0837small_zpsoqud84zp.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0837small_zpsoqud84zp.jpg.html)
A close up of the cutters.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0838small_zpstnq8r0zx.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0838small_zpstnq8r0zx.jpg.html)
Wire strippers.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0839small_zps5ln4ylfm.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0839small_zps5ln4ylfm.jpg.html)
The Cable Dawg is a very large and well made tool to assist the communication folks out in the field. It is expensive, and fairly large. In 2012, the RJ45 crimper was improved to be more dependable.
Post by: Chako on March 29, 2016, 01:59:04 AM
Introduced in 2012, the Groundbreaker is a very nice electrician's setup.
The sheath that comes with the Groundbreaker is very nice. There is a paddle section that you slide into your pants and securely holds the sheath in place. It is also quickly removed when needed. There are two front pouches which contain extra utility blades, and a driver bit caddy. There is even a hammer belt loop.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0841small_zpsyc8jdqxt.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0841small_zpsyc8jdqxt.jpg.html)
Much like the Cable Dawg, the Groundbreaker is a full sized tool.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0842small_zpsewmal6ev.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0842small_zpsewmal6ev.jpg.html)
Jaws locking level disengaged, the tool is spring loaded.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0843small_zpszoippjjx.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0843small_zpszoippjjx.jpg.html)
This tool has two removable handles. One is your utility knife. The other is a driver bit and drywall saw.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0844small_zpswfkzidm5.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0844small_zpswfkzidm5.jpg.html)
A closer look at the jaws of the Groundbreaker.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0845small_zpsu2hgwrlr.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0845small_zpsu2hgwrlr.jpg.html)
And of the spring mechanism.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0846small_zpsl9thttvn.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0846small_zpsl9thttvn.jpg.html)
That red piece is your utility blade exchanger mechanism.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0847small_zpspacgshoo.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0847small_zpspacgshoo.jpg.html)
The Groundbreaker is a very nice electricians tool. It is big, and feature packed.
Post by: Chako on March 29, 2016, 02:06:56 AM
Ever since Gerber went for the USMC contract in the early 90s with the Gerber MPT, Gerber and the US military have had a nice relationship. The black oxide MP600 appears to be the military choice. I do know that you can find various military kits out there, and they usually contain some form of BO MP600 multi-tool. I have a few.
For example, here is a small gun cleaning kit and the larger OTIS cleaning kit. Both contain a BO MP600.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0848small_zpsdlhtwj0f.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0848small_zpsdlhtwj0f.jpg.html)
Looking at the smaller kit, there is a separate pouch for the MP600.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0849small_zpsxurjmgky.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0849small_zpsxurjmgky.jpg.html)
On the backside resides an Ontario A.S.E.K.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0850small_zpsrk0jbfx3.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0850small_zpsrk0jbfx3.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0851small_zpsx87spkz3.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0851small_zpsx87spkz3.jpg.html)
Another example is the larger OTIS kit.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0852small_zpsmanuzhws.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0852small_zpsmanuzhws.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0853small_zps3kborbrd.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0853small_zps3kborbrd.jpg.html)
And last, is a Sapper Pack.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0854small_zpsnwr3vzhi.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0854small_zpsnwr3vzhi.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0855small_zpslswewgir.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0855small_zpslswewgir.jpg.html)
The Sapper kit includes an MP600 DET...no surprise there.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0857small_zpse29psdor.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0857small_zpse29psdor.jpg.html)
Therefore, it is common to find Gerber BO MP600s inside various military kits and packs.
Post by: Chako on March 29, 2016, 02:27:24 AM
The Gerber eFECT has the distinction of being Gerbers first crack at the AR weapons platform. It came out in 2011.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0858small_zpsblmc82xr.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0858small_zpsblmc82xr.jpg.html)
The tool does not feature a set of Pliers, but it does have 6 tools in a compact form factor. The tool also comes with either a MOLLE or belt compliant sheath.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0859small_zpsvrkr9sg9.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0859small_zpsvrkr9sg9.jpg.html)
You have several forms of carbon scrapers, a little nylon brush, a 4 prong sight adjustment tool, a large flat head driver, and a dis-assembly pin punch.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0860small_zpsg1oxi8ih.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0860small_zpsg1oxi8ih.jpg.html)
A side profile photo.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo003/IMG_0861small_zps1vgpr1nh.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo003/IMG_0861small_zps1vgpr1nh.jpg.html)
The Gerber eFECT is a very small lightweight tool. There is an updated version called the "Gerber eFECT II" with a slightly different tool load-out. The second version contains a bolt scrapper which the original did not have.
Post by: Chako on March 29, 2016, 02:49:36 AM
Post by: Marcellus on March 30, 2016, 02:52:47 AM
But you got to give it to Gerber for Innovation
Post by: Poncho65 on April 01, 2016, 04:28:46 AM
Post by: Chako on April 01, 2016, 05:15:28 PM
Post by: Poncho65 on April 03, 2016, 02:58:13 AM
Post by: Etherealicer on April 03, 2016, 06:08:15 PM
Thanks for showing us those tools. So far I only had time to look at the pictures (haven't read anything here yet). Thanks for taking the time :salute:
Post by: Mr Biriyani on April 20, 2016, 06:38:49 PM
Post by: Poncho65 on April 20, 2016, 07:39:04 PM
Post by: Chako on April 22, 2016, 02:08:59 AM
Post by: Poncho65 on April 22, 2016, 05:32:40 AM
Post by: Chako on April 22, 2016, 12:35:05 PM
Post by: Poncho65 on April 22, 2016, 02:58:07 PM
No problems. I do not mind members using my photos, etc. I only get a little grumpy when I see my photos being used on other retail sites. :tu:
I surely appreciate it :cheers: Yeah I would be a bit miffed myself if I saw someone using a pic of mine to sell something as well :D
Post by: Mr Biriyani on April 27, 2016, 08:36:52 PM
It would make sense if they came along with the Suspension 2005.
But I see Clutch and Shortcut arrived at that time. Or did they all came at that time ?
:think:
I remember one time maybe around 2010 then, looking to purchase a small Gerber and they were all (Clutch,Shortcut,Vice,Splice and two Mini Suspensions)available here at the same time but in different stores.
I was really puzzled and no one could tell the real difference and that could actually be the reason why I started to lurk around this place. :D
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 01:28:11 PM
I have to say that when I first started this, I was only aiming for the few pliers based multi-tools in the collection. Then one thing happened after another, and before you know it, I was buying more BG items just because. The low point of this collection was my buying the BG tinder box (aka The Cheese Grater). I realized at that point I needed to stop. With all that said, I am still happy that I added what I did. I do have a good selection barring anything overly new that Gerber has added. With that in mind, I am not overly a fan of the BG lineup. There are good and bad things about this product line.
The Good (in my opinion).
- Wonderful tactile grips with the right combination of hard plastic/nylon with soft rubber.
- The colour scheme isn't all that bad. At least you may have a chance to see your dropped item on the forest floor...hopefully.
- Functionality. This is a bit of a mixed bag. Some items are designed better than others. I do dig their survival kits, among other items of this series.
The Bad (in my opinion).
- Over the top branding. Much like SOG, every square inch will bear a Gerber logo and/or the BG logo.
- Questionable quality in some items.
- Very good fakes that saturate the markets out there. Very hard to tell between the fake and a real Gerber at times.
- Does one have to be a Bear Grylls fan to own and use one?
The series started back in 2010 with the collaboration of Bear Grylls and Gerber. At first, Gerber just re-branded/re-badged some common Gerber items with cosmetic stuff, and or changed a little something to make it a BG item. Bear Grylls used to be very common on TV with several "survival" shows. I haven't seen much of him lately. The lineup is still going strong however, with new items constantly being introduced by Gerber.
Here is an interview with Bear on the subject that you may find interesting...
http://www.oregonlive.com/playbooks-profits/index.ssf/2014/05/bear_grylls_ive_got_a_long-ter.html
:salute:
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 01:35:04 PM
Meet Gerber BG's take on the classic pocket knife. The BG Pocket Tool is all about being boxy, which interestingly enough, gives this tool a lot of comfort and control when using it. Adding to the ergonomics is that wonderful texture.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2618small_zpsppsdjr5i.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2618small_zpsppsdjr5i.jpg.html)
The BG Pocket Tool features a plain edge (PE) knife, a 3D Phillips driver, a small awl, and a combination cap lifter and flat screwdriver.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2619small_zpspu8jmsad.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2619small_zpspu8jmsad.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Overall Length: 5.5"
Closed Length: 3.2"
Weight: 2.9 oz.
Steel Type: 5Cr15 Stainless
Note that this knife does not have locking blades, making it legal in more places worldwide.
Overall, it is not that bad of a slip-joint knife.
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 01:42:12 PM
This is a bit of an oddity when considering the family characteristics of the Bear Grylls line produced by Gerber. The BG Grandfather knife attempts to strike a balance between a more traditional looking knife and that of the BG series. It looks the part with fancy bolsters (at least for the series). Even the BG logo is somewhat mute and understated. This is the nostalgic knife of the BG series.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2621small_zpsellww8yw.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2621small_zpsellww8yw.jpg.html)
Featuring a drop point plain edged knife blade, a corkscrew, combination cap lifter and flat screwdriver, and a combination Phillips driver and nail file.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2622small_zpsdjwia8lu.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2622small_zpsdjwia8lu.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Overall Length: 6.50”, 16.5cm
Blade Length: 2.75”, 6.9 cm
Closed Length: 3.75”, 9.5 cm
Weight: 3.5 oz, 99.2 g
Steel Type: 5Cr15Mov
Handle Material: Over-molded TPU Rubber w/stainless steel BG Badge
Overall, I like this little knife simply because it features that nice textured grip and also because it doesn't have that over the top branding.
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 01:49:25 PM
This small and handy knife features a drop point partially serrated blade. I wish it did not have the serrations, but I can agree this makes the knife a little better at cutting rope than with a plain edged blade...but at the cost of sharpening difficulties.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2623small_zps9wivwqhb.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2623small_zps9wivwqhb.jpg.html)
Yes, this knife does indeed follow the BG line's propensity of over advertising the series, with not only the handle, but um...er...everything emblazoned with a logo of some sort. What I can say, the knife blade comes factory sharp, the handle features that lovely no slip texture, and the knife is of a size that I find most useful as an EDC item.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2624small_zpsheyoxaa1.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2624small_zpsheyoxaa1.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Overall Length: 5.8’’
Closed Length: 3.3’’
Blade Length: 2.5’’
Weight: 0.94 oz.
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 01:58:01 PM
The BG Compact Multi-tool is basically a Gerber Clutch (now discontinued) with the nail cleaner and file removed and replaced by a small saw. Yeah, that shows true innovation. But then again, all of the BG pliers based multi-tools are basically just that...a Gerber product changed superficially to fit into the BG series. Nothing wrong with that I suppose. At least, if you like the tool and do not care for the BG influences, you can possibly get one from Gerber's regular lineup.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2625small_zpsx0hhrr76.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2625small_zpsx0hhrr76.jpg.html)
As such, the BG Compact Tool is not all that bad. I liked the Clutch, and consequently, I like this tool as well.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2626small_zps8rpmquu3.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2626small_zps8rpmquu3.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Open Length: 4.3’’
Closed Length: 2.5’’
Weight: 3.0 oz.
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 02:08:50 PM
The bigger brother to the Compact Folding Scout Knife, the Folding Scout Knife offers much of the same but more of it. That includes the standard mixed rubber/plastic handles in neon orange and gray.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2627small_zpsj68jmtrv.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2627small_zpsj68jmtrv.jpg.html)
I have two copies in the above photograph. One is a fake and the other is a real Gerber product. From the photos, they are very hard to tell apart other than the packaging. The fakes tend to come in a poorly printed cardboard box, whereas the real Gerbers tend to come in sealed clear plastic packaging.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2628small_zpsszurcfvq.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2628small_zpsszurcfvq.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Overall Length: 7.3’’
Closed Length: 4.0’’
Blade Length: 3.24’’
Weight: 2.54 oz.
So my word to the wise; if you see a BG product being sold off of eBay for a very nice price, and you notice the seller hails from Asia, especially Hong Kong...you will usually get a fake. I bought all of my fakes purposely to compare. They are hard to tell apart other then some subtle font changes, marking locations, and slightly different colours in the handles. So we warned. I bet plenty of folks have a BG product and do not even know they got duped into buying a cheap fake instead of a real Gerber. Quality will be compromised between the two...albeit to what extent I do not know. I try not to abuse my collection items overall.
By the way, the top knife is the real deal.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2629small_zpsxqc4nrlh.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2629small_zpsxqc4nrlh.jpg.html)
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 02:24:17 PM
This was Gerber's top of the line knife for a few years in the BG series. The knife comes with a nice sheath that includes a built in fire steel. The handle comes with a wrist strap that includes an emergency whistle. The back of the sheath features a diamond hone for sharpening your blade, and of course the ubiquitous Bear Grylls survival guide.
This knife was the top seller back in 2011 in regards to the BG series. With that said, the knife suffered from some issues, the most important being this is not a full tang knife. Imagine the surprise of those hardy folk that thought they could baton with this knife only to have it come apart in their hands. For the price and expectations of this product, not having a full tang was an error in design judgement. It didn't take long for this knife to accrue some bad press because of it. This is the main reason why Gerber came out with the PRO version which we will look in greater detail later.
The knife came out in both a plain edge and a serrated version. I was able to acquire the serrated version from a local store. I knew the plain edged version I bought for cheap off of eBay would turn out to be a fake. I wasn't disappointed. Once again, the fake is very close to the original.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2630small_zpsaea1nrxf.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2630small_zpsaea1nrxf.jpg.html)
The back of the sheath features the usual high visibility aircraft signaling panel. One side is not sewn, which creates a pocket for the included Bear Grylls survival guide.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2631small_zps3lltekur.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2631small_zps3lltekur.jpg.html)
The fake PE version is on the top of the real Gerber serrated version on the bottom.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2632small_zpsamxrmdjg.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2632small_zpsamxrmdjg.jpg.html)
There is a small notch on the spine of the blade for using the included fire steel.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2633small_zpsxwqgehdj.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2633small_zpsxwqgehdj.jpg.html)
Another issue that the PRO version fixed was the location of the included fire steel. The Ultimate knife had the fire steel facing downwards. This resulted in people losing it in the bush as they walked around. The PRO version has the fire steel in a more logical location facing upwards.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2634small_zps9fpfrqgi.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2634small_zps9fpfrqgi.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Open length: 10.0"
Blade Length: 4.8"
Weight: (with sheath): 14.7oz.
Weight (no sheath): 11.2oz.
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 02:31:16 PM
This is the knife that above Ultimate should have been. The Ultimate PRO builds upon the errors of the Ultimate knife that preceeded it. Upgrades include a much nicer sheath, a better positioned fire steel, a better implemented pull through knife sharpener, and a better backside pouch for the included Bear Grylls survival guide.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2635small_zps6ofwnmp5.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2635small_zps6ofwnmp5.jpg.html)
The hero of this story however, is the full tang blade. The knife comes only in a plain edge version, as not many people like a serrated blade on a survival knife. The fire steel is a bear to remove on my copy. I guess they didn't want folks losing this one as much as on the Ultimate knife...so I almost need a tool to remove it. I do struggle getting it off...but that might be by design. The pull through ceramic sharpener is more idiot proof compared to the diamond hone found the Ultimate knife.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2637small_zpsgblfnqij.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2637small_zpsgblfnqij.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Overall Length: 10“ (25.4cm)
Blade Length: 4.8“ (12.2cm)
Weight: 13.7 oz. (388.4g) with Sheath
Steel Type: 9Cr19MoV
Handle Material: TPE Overmold
The knife is a lot more expensive than the Ultimate knife...but I think the improvements are worth it if you are looking for a such a product.
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 02:34:36 PM
I kid you not, there is a BG Survival Lanyard. Not much to say about this product other than the whistle is ok, and I suppose the parachute cord once unraveled, can be useful in a survival situation. The biggest question asked of the user in an emergency is this...carrying your keys or using the paracord...that is the question.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2639small_zpsx6wlni6d.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2639small_zpsx6wlni6d.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Overall Length: 5”, 12.7cm
Total paracord length: 6’
Weight: 0.6 oz, 16.5g
Material: Nylon paracord
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 02:46:42 PM
Built a lot tougher than the folding knives, the Compact Fixed Blade features a full tang, and a very nice hard plastic sheath with locking retention tab.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2640small_zpsdjibsgh4.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2640small_zpsdjibsgh4.jpg.html)
The knife does feature a partially serrated blade, and of course all of the BG labeling bling. The plastic sheath features a plastic belt loop.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2641small_zpsk3wpuqm2.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2641small_zpsk3wpuqm2.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Blade length: 3.4”
Overall length: 7.8”
Weight w/o sheath: 3.8 oz
Weight w/ sheath: 5 oz
Blade style: fine edge
I personally like this knife. I like the textured grip, and the sheath isn't all that bad either. The size is just right for belt carry. The only thing I wish for would be for a side carry sheath option as opposed to the vertical carry design.
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 02:52:37 PM
I will say, I tend to not be a big fan of paracord handled knives. This one is no exception. I understand the added value of having some paracord for emergency uses, but not at the expense of handle ergonomics and comfort...at least for me. Your mileage and likes will vary to mine. With that said, the bright orange para cord will practically guarantee you won't be losing this on a forest floor when dropped.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2642small_zpssgeqggue.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2642small_zpssgeqggue.jpg.html)
On the plus side, you will never have to guess if your knife features a full tang. The hard plastic sheath is also nice. There are a pair of grommet holes that should allow you to wear it around your neck, etc, other than the usual belt carry. The blade is plain edged, and that is a plus in my books.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2643small_zps1ny3js7z.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2643small_zps1ny3js7z.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Overall Length: 7.75”, 19.7cm
Blade Length: 3.25”, 8.3cm
Weight: 5.75 oz, 163g
Steel Type: 5Cr15MoV
Handle Material: Paracord
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 03:00:00 PM
Yes, you can fully deck yourself with BG kit, including what holds your pants. The BG Survival Belt is a neat concept, and I would be lying to you if I told you I didn't find this product somewhat fascinating...but then, I was always attracted to gadgets.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2644small_zpsjazze1rg.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2644small_zpsjazze1rg.jpg.html)
The BG Survival belt features a few hidden surprises. Not only do you get a back buckle slide out tool, you also get a hidden zippered money compartment.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2645small_zps8hczy48d.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2645small_zps8hczy48d.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2646small_zpsdu9mxxl9.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2646small_zpsdu9mxxl9.jpg.html)
The front belt buckle has a hidden compartment that opens via a short twist and a pull. The back of the cap features a signaling mirror. The compartment comprises of a small fishing kit.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2648small_zpsg8g24dmd.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2648small_zpsg8g24dmd.jpg.html)
There is nothing stopping you from tossing the fishing kit and substituting something more useful. Overall, I am intrigued by this product and its functionality. I feel this is a better product than the next belt I will show you, but isn't part of the BG series.
DETAILS:
Overall Length: 48” (122cm) for webbing, 51.4” (131cm) including buckle
Weight: 5.5 oz, 155.7g
Material: 2-inch heavy gauge nylon webbing
6061-T6 Aluminum Buckle with Glass Filled Nylon Compartment/Cap
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 03:04:25 PM
This product isn't part of the BG series, but I thought I may as well add it here for kicks. This is the Gerber GDC Belt Tool.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2649small_zpsfnvflrg5.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2649small_zpsfnvflrg5.jpg.html)
This belt is a fairly large and heavy product that features a sliding out one piece multi-tool designed around a lime green ring for functionality and design cues.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2650small_zpsdrpar7vw.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2650small_zpsdrpar7vw.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2651small_zpsxnc4gxzv.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2651small_zpsxnc4gxzv.jpg.html)
Given the two belts, the BG version offers more features in a more comfortable to wear package.
Details
Cut to Size 52" Long Belt
Quick Belt Release
Bottle Opener
Pry Bar
Rust Proof Materials
Titanium Coated Steel Body
G10 Front Plate
Tool Length: 3.3"
Weight: 9.1 oz.
Post by: Poncho65 on January 02, 2017, 05:22:24 PM
Those fakes are almost exact copies and it makes me wonder of they were made in the same factory as the real ones :ahhh :ahhh :ahhh :think:
Great pics and thanks for sharing :tu: :like: :like:
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 06:31:58 PM
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 06:46:59 PM
One of the larger pieced in the BG collection, the Compact Parang is an effective cutting machine. With that said, there was a recall back in 2013 due to a handle issue.
https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2013/gerber-recalls-machetes-with-stitched-sheaths
My copy is an older pre-recall version. I just never bothered to return it as I never planned on using it, and the idea was to buy an updated version at a later date...which I never did. The updated version looks exactly like the old one pictured here, except they beefed up the steel in the handle area so that it won't break on you and possibly causing harm. They also updated the sheath so that the Velcro strap goes over the parang guard and not as pictured in my example.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2652small_zpsehzyyxac.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2652small_zpsehzyyxac.jpg.html)
The sheath has the airplane symbols chart that makes a pocket where the Bear Grylls pocket survival guide is stored.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2653small_zpsrnpmx97t.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2653small_zpsrnpmx97t.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Overall Length: 15.08“ (38.3cm)
Blade Length: 9.34“ (23.7cm)
Weight: 13.6 oz. (385.6g) with sheath
Steel Type: 1055
Handle Material: Polypropylene
Mildew-Resistant Nylon Sheath
This is a very comfortable machete. Just be sure you get the updated version and not one of these older ones.
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 06:51:28 PM
Not much to add to this folder other than it comes with a very nice sheath. Nice if you don't mind a lot of logos.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2654small_zps7b1xymy3.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2654small_zps7b1xymy3.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2655small_zpsnppdtyoc.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2655small_zpsnppdtyoc.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Overall length: 8.5”
Blade length: 3.6”
Weight w/o sheath: 4.3 oz
Weight w/ sheath: 5.3 oz
Blade style: fine edge
Similar to the folding Scout knife, but a little larger and comes with the sheath.
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 07:00:15 PM
If ever there was a product misnamed, this is it. The BG Ultimate Multi-tool just happens to be a re-branded Gerber Suspension. Gerber didn't even bother changing any of the inside tools. Thus, the Suspension = the BG Ultimate Multi-tool. :think:
That is a bit of a joke that.
What I will however say is this; I do prefer the BG Ultimate Multi-tool's handles over those of the Suspension. With that said, Gerber has come out with many different variations of the Suspension usually for one store or another. The BG Ultimate Multi-tool is just another variation. It just has the unfortunate name of "Ultimate" tacked on for comedic purposes.
Sorry for the fuzzy photo, but you get the idea. Of course, the sheath has to have more logos on it then a NASCAR racer.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2656small_zps5jhyksnb.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2656small_zps5jhyksnb.jpg.html)
Despite all the flack, the Suspension isn't that bad of a multi-tool. It doesn't come anywhere near being called the "Ultimate multi-tool", but neither is it an all that bad tool either. There are far worse, and of course, far better models out there...but if you want something with the BG bling, this will have to do. Just try to forget that unfortunate name, and you will be all the better for your purchase.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2657small_zpshazay3zt.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2657small_zpshazay3zt.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Open Length: 6.3’’
Closed Length: 4.0’’
Weight: 8.8 oz.
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 07:14:07 PM
If the BG Ultimate Multi-tool = a Gerber Suspension, then the BG Survival Multi-tool = a Gerber Stratus. Of the two, I much prefer the BG Survival Multi-tool to the Stratus simply because of two things. The BG version has better textured handle, and the biggest plus, the locking tabs are that much easier to use than on the Stratus. But that is only the tool itself. There is more to the Survival Multi-tool pack then the multi-tool. The pack comes encased in a very durable waterproof rubber/hard plastic sheath. The sheath has to side pockets. One to hold the very nice Gerber flashlight, and another for the standard fire steel.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2658small_zpsuu5axdcq.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2658small_zpsuu5axdcq.jpg.html)
The back of the sheath features a rubber belt loop. I am unsure how durable this will prove over time.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2659small_zpsb7bosyn0.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2659small_zpsb7bosyn0.jpg.html)
Without a doubt, one of my favorite little belt kits going.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2660small_zpsmskkg9wx.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2660small_zpsmskkg9wx.jpg.html)
Details
Overall Length: 15.2cm
Closed Length: 10.2cm
Weight: 316g
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 07:22:55 PM
This handy folding saw is perfect for trail guides and hunters wanting to clear away some brush for shooting lanes. I guess it is also designed to help you in case you are stuck in the woods...but then I guess if you have one of these on you, you probably have a GPS and tones of back up batteries.
What I do like about this saw is the textured handles. I have used a few other saws, and my biggest problem is keeping my hands from sliping on the handles. No worries with this model.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2661small_zpsb8ciuflv.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2661small_zpsb8ciuflv.jpg.html)
I find sometimes, the saw blade jams inside the handles. I have never used this one, but I have found that with similar saws, care needs to be exerted to ensure that blade is rather clean otherwise, the insides will get all gummy and blade extraction could be a future issue.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2662small_zpseku8qf3k.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2662small_zpseku8qf3k.jpg.html)
The blade is 6 inches long, and will cut on both the forward or backward stroke.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2663small_zps5bgh3f8t.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2663small_zps5bgh3f8t.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Overall Length: 14.75"
Closed Length: 8.5"
Weight: 5 oz.
Steel Type: SK5
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 07:28:00 PM
This is a nice little flashlight with a secret.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2664small_zpsn4wwxche.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2664small_zpsn4wwxche.jpg.html)
Yes, that logo found towards the posterior end gave it away didn't it? The secret is a compartment where one would expect to install batteries, instead, it holds a nice little fire starting kit that consist of a small cotton tinder, and a few matches. There is nothing stopping you from removing said fire kit and installing something that would fit the very limited space. So there are some customization options out there for the adventurous.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2665small_zps4yo3hfjm.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2665small_zps4yo3hfjm.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Overall Length: 5.98"
Weight: 3.89 oz.
Batteries: AA
Lumens: High: 24
Runtime: High: 20 hr
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 07:33:33 PM
This somewhat bulky fire starter comes in a waterproof case that splits into two pieces. One side containing the fire steel, and the other, a metal striker.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2666small_zpsthssic7d.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2666small_zpsthssic7d.jpg.html)
Adorning the package are various Morse codes one can use the whistle with. Tying both sides together is a black nylon lanyard to which is attached an emergency whistle.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2667small_zpsbspkwx97.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2667small_zpsbspkwx97.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Compact fire starter with ferrocerium rod and metal striker
Lanyard to keep product secure and together
Emergency Whistle - Integrated into lanyard cord
Waterproof storage compartment for tinder
Land to air rescue instructions and SOS
Priorities of Survival - Pocket guide contains Bear’s survival essentials
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 07:46:08 PM
I knew I had hit rock bottom when I bought the "survival cheese grater". This product is called the BG Tinderbox. I say just take my money and run! :rofl:
All joking aside, I suppose there could be a use for this. I also suppose there are far better things to haul into the bush than this largish lump of plastic and metal. The Tinderbox features a magnifying lens. Why you would want to depend on the good old sun to light a fire in case of an emergency, I shall never know. I do however strongly suspect that our British Isle friends might be in a spot of trouble depending on this with their stereotypical gloomy weather. Yeah, if you absolutely must pack something like this into the forest, please act responsibly and pack a lighter, a blowtorch, or even a flamethrower!
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2668small_zpstrzn7bk5.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2668small_zpstrzn7bk5.jpg.html)
The whole affair is not water proof, which I would think, might be an important item of consideration when designing a tinder box, but hey, what do I know. There is however a nice press button lock on the main compartment. At least the grater comes with a protective see through plastic cover. I strongly suspect it is clear to remind you of the fact at how much of an idiot you might be in buying one...present company included. I mean, why not raid the mother/wife's pantry for a cheaper version. :think:
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2669small_zps8wtvlw9n.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2669small_zps8wtvlw9n.jpg.html)
To assuage any hard feelings, Gerber has given you a handy dandy signaling mirror on the back. Well...that and of course, so that you can see yourself plastered with buyers remorse written all over your face.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2670small_zps4wul7emg.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2670small_zps4wul7emg.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Length: 5.75"
Width: 2.25"
Height: 1.06"
Weight: 3.0 oz
On Gerber's web site, they actually used the words "revolutionary tool". Please do not be fooled. Save some money and buy yourself a cheaper cheese grater and pack some matches. You will be further ahead.
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 07:53:26 PM
No mater at how much fun I can poke at the BG Tinderbox, the Survival Hatchet is a very nice piece of kit. Featuring a full tang, very ergonomic textured handle, and a nice shaped hatchet, the BG Survival Hatchet is only let down somewhat by the sheath. The sheath has a belt loop and is designed to stay attached to your belt. The let down comes about due to the tight hole that you must navigate the handle into. Also, the bottom most tip of the hatchet tends to get hooked into the sheath, making the whole thing a bit fiddly to take out or put away.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2671small_zpsmaje0fzi.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2671small_zpsmaje0fzi.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2672small_zps3m90q5la.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2672small_zps3m90q5la.jpg.html)
Details
Overall Length: 9.46“ (24cm)
Blade Length: 3.5“ (8.9cm)
Weight: 20.8 oz. (590g)
Steel Type: 3Cr13MoV
Handle Material: Polypropylene
Nylon Sheath
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 08:02:27 PM
I have a nice collection of card style multi-tools. The best ones tend to be made by Victorinox or Tool Logic. When I saw that Gerber also made one, I just had to include it in the collection.
Well, the BG Card Tool is somewhat thick in dimensions, precluding this as a wallet carry for most people.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2673small_zpsiq8efmv2.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2673small_zpsiq8efmv2.jpg.html)
Included is a built in LED flashlight, a built in bottle opener, a flat screwdriver, a Phillips screwdriver, a fire steel, metric and imperial ruler markings, and a removable knife blade.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2675small_zpsyegbdayx.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2675small_zpsyegbdayx.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Blade Length: 2.6”
Weight: 1 oz.
Dimension: 3.4 x 2 x .3"
Blade Style: Fine Edge
Blade Material: 420HC Steel
Handle Material: 30% Glass-Filled Nylon with TPE Over-mold
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 08:10:10 PM
Any of the following survival kits from the BG series are fairly nice kits. These are kits I wouldn't mind packing with me.
The BG Basic Survival Kit comes in a very fetching zippered nylon outer casing. The back has the usual air rescue reference information.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2676small_zpse9vxf0ii.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2676small_zpse9vxf0ii.jpg.html)
Inside, is a water proof clear vinyl enclosure that should ensure all your contents shall remain dry for the most part.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2677small_zpstmx6scb4.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2677small_zpstmx6scb4.jpg.html)
Details
(8 Piece Kit)
Waterproof Bag
Gerber Mini-Paraframe Knife
Emergency Whistle
Fire Starter
Waterproof Matches
Snare Wire
Emergency Cord
Cotton Ball - Fire Tinder
Lightweight, ripstop nylon bag with waterproof zipper
Land to air rescue instructions
Priorities of Survival - Pocket guide contains Bear’s survival essentials
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2678small_zpsnolbkivz.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2678small_zpsnolbkivz.jpg.html)
This is a nice little survival kit that has room for a few small additions to round out the kit to your liking.
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 08:18:21 PM
This 16 piece kit builds upon the Basic kit, adding quite a lot of capability in a package not much larger than the basic kit.
The Ultimate Kit comes in a black nylon zippered outer enclosure with the standard air & land rescue instructions information panel on the backside.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2683small_zpsl6xmke72.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2683small_zpsl6xmke72.jpg.html)
Inside, is a vinyl clear water proof enclosure much like the Basic kit, only sized accordingly.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2684small_zps9wr2twzf.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2684small_zps9wr2twzf.jpg.html)
Details
(16 Piece Kit)
Gerber Miniature Multi-tool
Needle Nose Pliers
Wire Cutters
Fine Edge Knife
Phillips Screwdriver
Small Flat Driver
Medium Flat Driver
Lanyard Ring
Bottle Opener
Tweezers
Waterproof Bag
Miniature Light
Hand Saw
Signaling Mirror
Survival Blanket
Fire Starter
Waterproof matches
Cotton Ball - Fire Tinder
Snare Wire
Emergency Cord
Waxed Thread
Fishing Kit
Sewing kit
Lanyard Whistle
Lightweight, ripstop nylon bag with waterproof zipper
Land to air rescue instructions
Priorities of Survival - Pocket guide contains Bear’s survival essentials
A view of the survival blanket and emergency cord visible on the backside of the waterproof bag.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2685small_zpslavtapli.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2685small_zpslavtapli.jpg.html)
And a top view of the contents.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2686small_zpsazccmrsg.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2686small_zpsazccmrsg.jpg.html)
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 08:22:46 PM
Unlike the BG Basic and Ultimate Survival Kits, the BG Scout Essentials Kit comes in a two piece plastic shell that could double as a water container in a pinch.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2679small_zps7ns16cbv.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2679small_zps7ns16cbv.jpg.html)
The backside of the hard plastic case features the usual land and air instructions panel seen on many BG items.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2680small_zpsve7oww6n.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2680small_zpsve7oww6n.jpg.html)
The kit comes apart easily by simply pulling the two halves apart. There is no internal waterproof bag to be found in this kit.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2681small_zpsuwq2xrwv.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2681small_zpsuwq2xrwv.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Overall Size: 4.75" x 3.75" x 1"
Weight: 5.4 oz.
Polypropylene case,
First Aid Kit,
Waterproof Matches,
L.E.D. Micro Torch,
Light Compact Scout Knife,
Button Compass,
Priorities of Survival Guide
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2682small_zpsiy2ohbyg.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2682small_zpsiy2ohbyg.jpg.html)
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 08:26:24 PM
Not much to say other then this is a one size fits all poncho that could be used to keep you or your gear dry, and possibly could be used as a makeshift shelter.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2687small_zpsrwupjlez.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2687small_zpsrwupjlez.jpg.html)
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2688small_zpsiodayzrp.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2688small_zpsiodayzrp.jpg.html)
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 08:33:11 PM
This canteen and nesting cup was inspired by military gear. The canteen comes with a belt loop sheath that wraps around the canteen via a Velcro strap.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2690small_zpsnzisvooh.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2690small_zpsnzisvooh.jpg.html)
Once removed, you can see the orange nesting cup.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2691small_zps4ol7mlzv.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2691small_zps4ol7mlzv.jpg.html)
The nesting cup has a pair of rubber covered handles that act as heat insulators to prevent burns. The canteen itself is nicely textured much like the rest of the BG series.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2692small_zpsqcvjgu6n.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2692small_zpsqcvjgu6n.jpg.html)
Post by: Chako on January 02, 2017, 08:36:32 PM
Most of these items come with a BG survival guide. I have found it most expedient to just toss these into a collection drawer.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2689small_zpsxgchibmk.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2689small_zpsxgchibmk.jpg.html)
And here is a bonus shot of the Bear Grylls collection drawer.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2693small_zpscdpfnoi7.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2693small_zpscdpfnoi7.jpg.html)
:salute:
Post by: Etherealicer on January 02, 2017, 10:17:34 PM
Episode 63 - Gerber Bear Grylls Survival Torch.I always have problems with dimensions... The flashlight works with the survival kit in, right? So this is a "double AA" that only takes one AA in the front part. :think: Could you please post an image with an AA battery next to it for a slightly dimensional challenged Etherealicer :P
This is a nice little flashlight with a secret.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2664small_zpsn4wwxche.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2664small_zpsn4wwxche.jpg.html)
Yes, that logo found towards the posterior end gave it away didn't it? The secret is a compartment where one would expect to install batteries, instead, it holds a nice little fire starting kit that consist of a small cotton tinder, and a few matches. There is nothing stopping you from removing said fire kit and installing something that would fit the very limited space. So there are some customization options out there for the adventurous.
(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo004/IMG_2665small_zps4yo3hfjm.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo004/IMG_2665small_zps4yo3hfjm.jpg.html)
DETAILS:
Overall Length: 5.98"
Weight: 3.89 oz.
Batteries: AA
Lumens: High: 24
Runtime: High: 20 hr
Post by: gregozedobe on January 03, 2017, 01:48:54 AM
I liked the photos, and enjoyed the sardonic comments even more. Keep up the good work :tu:
Post by: Chako on January 03, 2017, 02:01:11 AM
gregozedobe...surely you jest! Everyone wants...nay...needs a BG Tinderbox!
Post by: ReamerPunch on January 03, 2017, 09:55:16 AM
Post by: Chako on January 03, 2017, 12:30:40 PM
Post by: Fortytwo on January 05, 2017, 11:31:23 PM
Post by: Chako on January 06, 2017, 12:01:25 AM
Post by: mlw270win on March 29, 2018, 12:35:05 AM
Post by: Chako on May 14, 2018, 08:31:33 PM
Post by: Tri Wibowo Wz on May 16, 2018, 09:43:07 AM
Post by: Chako on April 30, 2019, 06:12:19 AM
Hard to believe the last time I added anything was back in 2017. I haven't exactly been collecting multi-tools of late, having my interest go in other directions. With that said, I found two Gerber multi-tools at a local store. First up is the Gerber Suspension NXT. Now the original Suspension was a very popular multi-tool that spawned quite a few similar tools. I am uncertain why Gerber called this one a Suspension NXT as it doesn't resemble the older tool in the least. I must say, the older tool was of a higher build quality compared to this newer tool. I can flex the handles in the close position up and down around the pliers pivot point. The whole tool is full of angular sharp edges. The locking tabs have several issues with them. Not only do they stick out way too much and are pointy as all get out, you can push them from side to side. I noted that in my model, when you did that, it jammed the folding tools somewhat. Not cool, and a sure indicator of poor build quality. The tool does feature a belt clip, however, it digs into your hands when the tool is in the closed position. I am happy to say, the tool tightens up in the open position...but all those sharp edges and wiggle detracts from my opinion of a quality tool. It is not all doom and gloom though..as I do tend to like the fold out tools that come with it. No included sheath however is a major let down for myself. It would be great to have another option other than the included belt clip. Mind you, they did include a lanyard hole but oddly made this out of plastic as opposed to stainless steel.
(https://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo006/IMG_7214small_zpsqfqvdujo.jpg) (https://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo006/IMG_7214small_zpsqfqvdujo.jpg.html)
I don't mind the fold out tools in general. That awl is of a rather interesting design. It is more akin to a very sharp box opener than an awl.
(https://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo006/IMG_7220small_zpss3tcte5e.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo006/IMG_7220small_zpss3tcte5e.jpg.html)
The jaws are spring loaded.
(https://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo006/IMG_7222small_zpsxrk1p1uu.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo006/IMG_7222small_zpsxrk1p1uu.jpg.html)
Post by: Chako on April 30, 2019, 06:26:20 AM
Compared to the Gerber Suspension NXT (I guess they didn't want to spell "NEXT"), the Truss is a much better tool in build quality and design. The Truss does not flex as much as the Suspension NXT in the closed position. Better yet, the Truss is rounded in all the right spots to make it a much more comfortable tool to use. With that said, I am finding these new locking push tabs to be a bit sharp and they stick out way too much. So much so that I find them digging into my palms. Much like the previous tool, you also get a bit of plastic in the shape of a lanyard hole on one handle, and a bit of plastic on the other handle to match. Of course, Gerber saw fit to but the Gerber logo on both pieces. Unfortunately, this tool also suffers from locking tabs that can be moved in and out. I am not a big fan of Gerber's new locking tab design and construction. This was much better on the older tools. At least this tool comes with a sheath that can be worn side style or up/down style.
(https://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo006/IMG_7223small_zpsbveiprvs.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo006/IMG_7223small_zpsbveiprvs.jpg.html)
From what I can see, both the Truss and Suspension NXT feature the same pliers head, including the built in spring. From what I can see, I might consider both tools to be in the same family as there are plenty of similar design cues between them, right down to the tool design.
(https://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/Chako_photo006/IMG_7225small_zpsapldnrzn.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/Chako_photo006/IMG_7225small_zpsapldnrzn.jpg.html)
Post by: gerleatherberman on April 30, 2019, 07:29:15 AM
I liked the Truss more than the NXT also, but was kidded about the choice. :rofl:
I have not noted the lock issue, but have also not thought of trying to push the locks side-to-side. That is definitely a step down from the older Suspension, which is a tough cookie construction wise. I think a lot of the issues come from the fact Gerber wanted to keep the tools relatively inexpensive. I feel they are still quite good at the price points, seeing as they are competitive with Ganzo at the moment.
The NXT rode in my pocket for a while and performed as advertised. But, that said, I had to return(for an exchange) one of the two I bought, because the pliers had an outstanding amount of slop in them and drastically misaligned handles. The one I recieved was a good example with little handle-wobble and a tight pliers head. It went into the collection of course. The one I have designated as a user is a fair example, but has the wobble you mentioned.
Post by: Chako on April 30, 2019, 11:21:19 AM
Post by: edc yes on October 06, 2019, 07:01:02 PM
Post by: Chako on October 24, 2019, 04:30:07 AM
Post by: Ivo on November 01, 2019, 10:49:57 AM
Post by: Chako on November 07, 2019, 12:33:47 AM
Post by: CarbideCruzer on November 16, 2019, 07:55:01 AM
Here is a link in case anyone interested via Gerber's website. https://www.gerbergear.com/en-us/shop/equipment/accessories/10-piece-tool-kit-mp400-mp600-mp650-mp700-mp800-45200 (https://www.gerbergear.com/en-us/shop/equipment/accessories/10-piece-tool-kit-mp400-mp600-mp650-mp700-mp800-45200)
This is also interesting with the first generation MP400, the blade had a finger slot with a drop point blade, whereas the "modern" day variation has a nail nick instead as well as a sheep foot blade. Very handy multi tool due to it's size, lightweight and one handed operation.
Post by: tattoosteve99 on January 11, 2023, 07:01:46 PM
Post by: CarbideCruzer on February 05, 2023, 11:42:48 PM
Sometime in 2022, Gerber released a Center Drive version with a gut hook named Gerber Center Drive Rescue. Below is an archived image as Gerber for whatever reason doesn't keep a list of their products the same way Leatherman wisely does.
http://archive.today/2023.02.05-224814/https://www.gerbergear.com/en-us/shop/multi-tools/all-multi-tools/center-drive-rescue-berry-compliant-sheath-30-001892 (http://archive.today/2023.02.05-224814/https://www.gerbergear.com/en-us/shop/multi-tools/all-multi-tools/center-drive-rescue-berry-compliant-sheath-30-001892)