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Tool Talk => Gerber Tools => Topic started by: J-sews on January 14, 2014, 08:20:12 PM

Title: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 14, 2014, 08:20:12 PM
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesa_zpsa2a18032.jpg)


Recently I was extremely fortunate enough to acquire an assortment of prototype Gerber tools. I know almost none of the background info on these items, other than that they were owned by a senior engineer or manager that left Gerber about ten or twelve years ago. Many of the tools themselves appear to be from the late 1990's/early 2000's, which was about the time Gerber was bringing out a number of other innovations such as the MP600 and MP400 lines, the Multi-Lite, the Build Your Own program, the MP700 and MP800 tools, etc.

MP600's with red handles or with yellow handles were available back then as part of a combo kit that included a crappy flashlight. Furthermore, handles in blue, green, orange, or white were also available through Gerber's custom Build Your Own program. Judging by these prototypes, Gerber was also experimenting with plenty of other colors too: 

lime green w/black oxide
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesb_zps19370ec0.jpg)


copper w/black oxide
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesc_zpse1d8a130.jpg)


maroon w/stainless
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesd_zps18925e93.jpg)


dark purple w/black oxide
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypese_zps015112a4.jpg)


carbon fiber w/stainless
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesh_zpsc43a3c7a.jpg)



MP700's were sold with a matte aluminum finish. A special "Terminator" version had a polished chrome finish. But none were sold with a colored finish to my knowledge. Here is an experimental blue one:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesf_zpsc0c91e00.jpg)



Standard MP600's to this day are sold with a matte "bead-blast" stainless steel finish. Here is one that was given a full mirror polish job, including all of the folding blades except the Phillips and the file:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesl_zps5cda175f.jpg)



But the prototyping is not just limited to fancy paint jobs and finishes. Here is an MP600 (happens to be orange) that sports soft rubber grip panels, presumably for comfort. We've seen a couple of these tools previously, in black oxide finish.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesi_zpsbaa52d5b.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesj_zpsb8163001.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesk_zps5c9455ae.jpg)



Or how about an electrician's plier head? Bear Jaws makes a tool that has one, as does the little Leatherman Squirt EL. But this is a full sized MP600. Wonder if they ran into a patent conflict or something and that's why they never made any more?

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesq_zps8baf324a.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesp_zps7c7ef705.jpg)



Here's a real doozy of a tool. It has a fancy removable plier head.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesr_zps7bd27207.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypess_zps9e4ae171.jpg)




Just push in the spring-loaded buttons on either side of the pliers and it pops right off:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesu_zps5a6de2e5.jpg)




The handles are made to come apart too. I wonder if they planned to offer different style pliers? And maybe different handles too, perhaps with a variety of different blades and such?

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypest_zps6abd552e.jpg)



EDIT:
Hey, I just realized the entire head is reversible! :tu:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesv_zps66b5f9bb.jpg)



Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Grant Lamontagne on January 14, 2014, 08:26:49 PM
That's awesome Bob!

I'll have to look closer when I get to a computer but for now I'm really loving that lime green one!

Def

Sent from a digital multitool

Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 14, 2014, 08:29:24 PM
More fun stuff. :)


A special belt sheath that holds the tool in place with powerful magnets:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesw_zpsbad03909.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesx_zpsb33a73f0.jpg)



A PRE PRODUCTION PROTOTYPE of old Mr. Pinchy

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesm_zps184bbea6.jpg)



The tool loadout definitely has a "pre-production" look about it: :whistle:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesn_zps9a0f7eef.jpg)



Looks like the engineers were playing around with the ability to fold the tools completely around to the backside. That might be handy from time to time:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypeso_zps5ee8876b.jpg)



Not a prototype, but some type of a sales milestone award. The entire tool is gold plated, including all of the blades. It doesn't appear to have seen much heavy usage. :D

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesy_zpsee8edff5.jpg)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: captain spaulding on January 14, 2014, 08:30:44 PM
Just WOW!

Thank you for posting this for us all to enjoy. I really love the history aspect of these tools as well as a strong appeal for early Gerbers or prototype tools so this makes me happy on all sorts of levels.   :ahhh the reversible head MT in the last picture is very intriguing to me. Hell who am I kidding every single tool there is intriguing to me. Whats the deal with the MP600 with blue handles and blue pliers? Am I seeing that correctly? 
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: captain spaulding on January 14, 2014, 08:33:30 PM
 :drool:  that pre production mr. Pinchy is awesome!!!!!!!


Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Aloha on January 14, 2014, 08:34:42 PM
I'm speechless and feel like the guy in pulp fiction when Jules opened the case in the coffee shop plus I'm so utterly envious right now I need to lay down.

 

Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: captain spaulding on January 14, 2014, 08:37:02 PM
I'm speechless and feel like the guy in pulp fiction when Jules opened the case in the coffee shop plus I'm so utterly envious right now I need to lay down.

 


See. Aloha knows exactly how I feel. Great analogy by the way. Totally relevant to me.  :D
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: lowtech on January 14, 2014, 08:37:58 PM
 :drool: I think I just had a small stroke.

Where did you say you live? Do you have an alarm system or guarding dog? Just curious...  :whistle:

Nah, those tools have come to the right hands I guess. But if you should get tired of one of them, drop me a line...

Thank you for sharing! I love the ideas behind the prototypes and it is always interesting to see those things.

Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: enki_ck on January 14, 2014, 08:38:08 PM
WOW

I'm speechless. :o

That's quite a haul you managed to get there. :cheers:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 14, 2014, 08:38:41 PM
Just WOW!

Thank you for posting this for us all to enjoy. I really love the history aspect of these tools as well as a strong appeal for early Gerbers or prototype tools so this makes me happy on all sorts of levels.   :ahhh the reversible head MT in the last picture is very intriguing to me. Hell who am I kidding every single tool there is intriguing to me. Whats the deal with the MP600 with blue handles and blue pliers? Am I seeing that correctly?


Oop, how did I miss that one? :P Yeah, it has an iridescent blue finish over the entire tool, including the pliers. I have no idea what it is. Some guys at work are speculating that it is blue anodize. But I didn't know you could anodize stainless...? :think:


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesg_zpsf688a19c.jpg)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 14, 2014, 08:40:35 PM
Thanks fellows. :) It took a great deal of detective work to track these down, but the results are definitely worth it! :cheers:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Aloha on January 14, 2014, 08:43:37 PM
I love them all but the removable plier head and reversible at that is insane,  WOW Gerber!!!!  Gerber if you are out there watching or reading this please bring back the Build your own Gerber program again, PLEEEEASE. 
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: colt 1911 on January 14, 2014, 08:46:17 PM
Totally awesome, thanks for making me  :drool: :drool:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: captain spaulding on January 14, 2014, 08:50:13 PM
Thanks for the info and picture of old blue there.  :D

Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: captain spaulding on January 14, 2014, 08:50:37 PM
I love them all but the removable plier head and reversible at that is insane,  WOW Gerber!!!!  Gerber if you are out there watching or reading this please bring back the Build your own Gerber program again, PLEEEEASE.


Yes, yes, and yes...... I would be in heaven if they did.
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Gareth on January 14, 2014, 08:59:20 PM
Some real special Gerbers in there Bob. :drool:

I particularly like the one with the reversible head, a forerunner to the MP650 concept perhaps?
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Etherealicer on January 14, 2014, 09:54:35 PM
Some real special Gerbers in there Bob. :drool:

I particularly like the one with the reversible head, a forerunner to the MP650 concept perhaps?
+1 :tu:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 14, 2014, 09:59:00 PM
Some real special Gerbers in there Bob. :drool:

I particularly like the one with the reversible head, a forerunner to the MP650 concept perhaps?
+1 :tu:


I am thinking so too. :salute:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Etherealicer on January 14, 2014, 10:06:47 PM
Some real special Gerbers in there Bob. :drool:

I particularly like the one with the reversible head, a forerunner to the MP650 concept perhaps?
+1 :tu:


I am thinking so too. :salute:
Could you please make a picture of the slot, where the plier-head goes in? Please?
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: SolomonKane79 on January 14, 2014, 10:11:06 PM
W-o-w.  :drool:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gregozedobe on January 14, 2014, 10:33:06 PM
The awesome awesomesness of this haul has almost left me speechless  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:

Some absolutely fabulous Gerbers there, and what a great score.  2014 has been a great year for you and it has only just started.

It's good to see my Lime Green MP600 is almost certainly an official Gerber prototype, not a home made mod.  I thought it probably was official, as the finish was much the same as my other coloured ones.  I wonder if I sent mine to you for stud purposes we could breed some more Lime Green ones ?   :rofl:

You need to increase the insurance on your collection, just these alone will have bumped up the value quite a bit.  Or maybe start up a "pliery" multi-tool museum and employ yourself as acquisitions manager, curator and get a rabid Rottweiler as security consultant ?   :pok: (but never ask a Doberman to guard a Teddy Bear collection unsupervised, someone once did and it destroyed many valuable collctor quality teddy bears   :o :D  ).

Thank you for sharing  :)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: jerseydevil on January 14, 2014, 10:43:08 PM
 :o  Those are just  :drool: Bob!  Thanks for sharing with us!
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: ducttapetech on January 14, 2014, 10:50:06 PM
Those are SWEET!

sent from Nate's mobile

Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Lynn LeFey on January 14, 2014, 11:10:15 PM
This collection is like a museum archive. Frickin' awesome!  :tu:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Syph007 on January 14, 2014, 11:15:30 PM
That reversible head one is the coolest gerber Ive ever seen!  Id buy that in a second if it was ever a production model.
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 14, 2014, 11:26:45 PM
Some real special Gerbers in there Bob. :drool:

I particularly like the one with the reversible head, a forerunner to the MP650 concept perhaps?
+1 :tu:

I am thinking so too. :salute:
Could you please make a picture of the slot, where the plier-head goes in? Please?


Sure thing! :tu: You mean from the end, like this?

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesz_zps70aaf013.jpg)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 14, 2014, 11:28:50 PM
The awesome awesomesness of this haul has almost left me speechless  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:  :drool:

Some absolutely fabulous Gerbers there, and what a great score.  2014 has been a great year for you and it has only just started.

It's good to see my Lime Green MP600 is almost certainly an official Gerber prototype, not a home made mod.  I thought it probably was official, as the finish was much the same as my other coloured ones.  I wonder if I sent mine to you for stud purposes we could breed some more Lime Green ones ?   :rofl:

You need to increase the insurance on your collection, just these alone will have bumped up the value quite a bit.  Or maybe start up a "pliery" multi-tool museum and employ yourself as acquisitions manager, curator and get a rabid Rottweiler as security consultant ?   :pok: (but never ask a Doberman to guard a Teddy Bear collection unsupervised, someone once did and it destroyed many valuable collctor quality teddy bears   :o :D  ).

Thank you for sharing  :)


I'd forgotten about your lime green one Greg! Did we ever get to see any pictures of it? Does it look the same as the one shown here? :)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: CanadianLMfan on January 14, 2014, 11:40:58 PM
This.......is.......just.......................................awesome. :clap:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Chako on January 15, 2014, 12:23:08 AM
Now that is just  :drool: worthy Bob.
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Yadda on January 15, 2014, 02:10:27 AM
Just further proof of your scrounging prowess!  I am once again in awe of another stunning acquisition.  Salute!
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Sazabi on January 15, 2014, 03:30:17 AM
Holy smurf that's a nice haul. :drool:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gregozedobe on January 15, 2014, 06:37:42 AM
I'd forgotten about your lime green one Greg! Did we ever get to see any pictures of it? Does it look the same as the one shown here? :)
Sorry, (still) no pictures to web technology.

Actually, in comparison to yours mine does look a bit different - brushed(?) matte SS (not black) needle(ish) nose pliers, and going by the colours I see on my screen I have to change my colour description to "Safety Lime-Yellow" as while it definitely has a green tinge, it has much more yellow in it than yours.

The tool load is:
Brushed(?) matte SS Needle(ish) Nose Pliers
Remgrit saw holder, 3D philips, PE Blade;
File,  can opener, small scredriver, med screwdriver cum bottle opener, "FISKARS" scissors.
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: bdAmmo on January 15, 2014, 07:02:57 AM
Congratulations on scoring that amazing assortment of beautiful Gerber Tools. That has to be the all time best lot of Gerbers ever acquired at one time. :tu:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: David on January 15, 2014, 07:10:14 AM
Congratulations Bob!   :tu:  I'm in overload here. It will take me a while to process all these rare Gerbers.   :)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Zed on January 15, 2014, 09:50:36 AM
Very cool bob  :drool: any close ups of the purple multi-lite  :salute:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: dks on January 15, 2014, 10:46:55 AM
Many thanks !

I think there are some tools availble with a reversible head. I am thinking low end multitools but I remember seeing some better quality ones too....
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Etherealicer on January 15, 2014, 01:58:18 PM
Some real special Gerbers in there Bob. :drool:

I particularly like the one with the reversible head, a forerunner to the MP650 concept perhaps?
+1 :tu:

I am thinking so too. :salute:
Could you please make a picture of the slot, where the plier-head goes in? Please?


Sure thing! :tu: You mean from the end, like this?

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesz_zps70aaf013.jpg)
That is exactly what I meant, many thanks. :salute:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: WWW on January 15, 2014, 10:09:26 PM
  There is just too much awesomeness in a single thread for this time of the day!!!  :drool: :drool: :drool: :drool:

  Seriously, you almost made fall from the chair. I recently started to like Gerber's but now I'm sure I'm in love. Maybe we could try to oblige ask in a really polite manner if they could make a special MT.O run of the reversible head ones... and the colored ones... and the electrician one...  :whistle:

  Thanks for the pics mate, they blinded me with their beauty!!! Cheers !!!  :cheers: :cheers:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: tosh on January 16, 2014, 12:09:14 AM
Wow, I'm just speechless.

What an amazing collection.

Just incredible..... :salute:



...would look great in a MT'o Book  :pok:  :drool:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 16, 2014, 03:58:10 AM
Thanks again for the kind words folks. :) And rest assured that I've doubled the guards around the perimeter and updated the retinal scanners on the vault. Gotta keep these babies safe you know! :salute: :D



Very cool bob  :drool: any close ups of the purple multi-lite  :salute:

Purple Multi-Lite pictures coming right up! Unfortunately there was only the top piece, so I'll have to keep an eye out for a donor bottom piece and blades. It looks to be a standard top, just molded from purple plastic:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypessaa_zpse4a2718a.jpg)



It came with a full compliment of tiny tools in the secret compartment:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypessbb_zpscba653d4.jpg)



Amber colored LED, of typically underwhelming brightness:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesscc_zpsfa8c57ae.jpg)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 16, 2014, 04:56:12 AM
I'd forgotten about your lime green one Greg! Did we ever get to see any pictures of it? Does it look the same as the one shown here? :)
Sorry, (still) no pictures to web technology.

Actually, in comparison to yours mine does look a bit different - brushed(?) matte SS (not black) needle(ish) nose pliers, and going by the colours I see on my screen I have to change my colour description to "Safety Lime-Yellow" as while it definitely has a green tinge, it has much more yellow in it than yours.

The tool load is:
Brushed(?) matte SS Needle(ish) Nose Pliers
Remgrit saw holder, 3D philips, PE Blade;
File,  can opener, small scredriver, med screwdriver cum bottle opener, "FISKARS" scissors.

Hey, the ebay pictures of yours are still up Greg! I was able to save them and repost here: :cheers:

Greg's safety lime yellow
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/paintedneonyellowgreghasa_zps314799c8.jpg)


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/paintedneonyellowgreghasb_zps5573be9e.jpg)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gregozedobe on January 16, 2014, 05:09:59 AM


Hey, the ebay pictures of yours are still up Greg! I was able to save them and repost here: :cheers:

Greg's safety lime yellow
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/paintedneonyellowgreghasa_zps314799c8.jpg)


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/paintedneonyellowgreghasb_zps5573be9e.jpg)

Thanks for that.   :tu: 

When I compare the colour of the actual tool to what I see in these photos (on my monitor, YMMV) it is closer to the top photo, with a little less green than the bottom one.

I think someone at Gerber must have had great fun trying out all these different colours, and actually colouring the plier head blue on the blue one is simply way over the top (in a drool-worthy way  :drool:  )
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Zed on January 16, 2014, 09:11:32 AM
Cool colour that purple bob,so no clue to the tool set up for this multi-lite  :think:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 16, 2014, 03:08:17 PM
Cool colour that purple bob,so no clue to the tool set up for this multi-lite  :think:

Unfortunately no. :-\ My guess is they were just trying out a different color plastic in the molding machine. :think:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: bmot on January 16, 2014, 04:09:10 PM
Greg's safety lime yellow



What's a safety lime?  :whistle:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: jerseydevil on January 16, 2014, 04:13:21 PM
Greg's safety lime yellow



What's a safety lime?  :whistle:

Dull edges.  ;)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Max Archer on January 16, 2014, 04:32:55 PM
How'd they do the carbon fiber one? Is it real CF, vinyl, or one of those hydro decal dips?

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 16, 2014, 06:19:28 PM
Greg's safety lime yellow



What's a safety lime?  :whistle:

Dull edges.  ;)

Cause otherwise it really stings when you cut yourself with one. ;) ;)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: lowtech on January 16, 2014, 06:20:23 PM
Hydro decals would be my bet. CF adds too much thickness and would peel from the corners as would vinyl do.
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 16, 2014, 06:22:51 PM
How'd they do the carbon fiber one? Is it real CF, vinyl, or one of those hydro decal dips?

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk


Yes, it looks like a hydrographics job. The carbon fiber appearance is on the inside too, so I wasn't sure until I touched it with a magnet. It stuck. Dang it. :-\
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Chako on January 16, 2014, 06:26:28 PM
Hmmm. I wonder if it could have been done by that Michiganite that was doing hydro-graphics on a bunch of other tools and selling them on eBay a few years back.  :think:

Probably note...but it would be interesting to know for sure.

Either way Bob. These are lovely additions to your superb collection.  :tu:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Max Archer on January 16, 2014, 07:17:33 PM
Hydro is actually a pretty cool idea though, I don't know if I've ever seen it on an MT before. Not sure about durability though. I guess they're dipping guns now so it can't be too weak.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Gareth on January 16, 2014, 08:19:54 PM
Greg's safety lime yellow



What's a safety lime?  :whistle:

Dull edges.  ;)

Cause otherwise it really stings when you cut yourself with one. ;) ;)

:doh:

 :D :D
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 16, 2014, 09:48:24 PM
Hydro is actually a pretty cool idea though, I don't know if I've ever seen it on an MT before. Not sure about durability though. I guess they're dipping guns now so it can't be too weak.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk

Dan (Chako) has quite a few multitools that have hydrographic finishes on them. :tu:

Here is a short video about the process that I found on youtube. Apparently the kits to do it yourself are readily available. (and they make it look soooo easy......)


Water.Transfer.Printing.(Hydrographics).Woodland.CAMO | HG Arts (www.hgarts.com) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lt-BtNlnt_k#ws)

Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: lowtech on January 17, 2014, 09:23:13 AM
From what I have learned in my research for surface finishes, it´s liek with painting: Prep work is 90 percent of the work and the finish is as durable as teh topcoat.
You need a prepped surface the printed film can properly adhere to and you need to use a durable clearcoat do get a good finish and lasting decor.

I have seen soem very nice things done with this technique but fake CF parts or cheap plastic dashboard inlays in a badly printed wood usually do nothing for me.
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Chako on January 17, 2014, 12:59:13 PM
That is true. Here is a Gerber MPT hydropainted in red carbon fiber .

(http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r207/Chako_photo/IMG_3926small.jpg) (http://s145.photobucket.com/user/Chako_photo/media/IMG_3926small.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Max Archer on January 17, 2014, 04:11:40 PM
It's funny how those badly printed dash inlays are the only accurate thing for some cars though. I actually first leaned about this process through restoration parts for a lot of 60s British cars that were done with it.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: scrappy on January 17, 2014, 04:29:13 PM
Thanks Bob, that is awesome!

I particularly like the reversible head!
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 18, 2014, 03:35:10 AM
Thanks Bob, that is awesome!

I particularly like the reversible head!

Me too Terry! :tu:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: scrappy on January 18, 2014, 08:52:17 PM
This thread is a cornucopia of gerber knowledge. Nice to see the what ifs
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Sparky415 on January 18, 2014, 09:57:45 PM

Either way Bob. These are lovely additions to your superb collection.  :tu:

+1  :salute:

I like the look of the Electrician pliers  :tu:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 18, 2014, 10:07:38 PM

Either way Bob. These are lovely additions to your superb collection.  :tu:

+1  :salute:

I like the look of the Electrician pliers  :tu:


I'd send them for you to look at Tony but they would probably come back with a blackened burn hole between the jaws. :pok: :D
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Sparky415 on January 18, 2014, 10:16:49 PM

Either way Bob. These are lovely additions to your superb collection.  :tu:

+1  :salute:

I like the look of the Electrician pliers  :tu:


I'd send them for you to look at Tony but they would probably come back with a blackened burn hole between the jaws. :pok: :D

That has been known in the past but not so much now  :D

(volt stick   ;)  )

 :cheers:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 18, 2014, 10:27:56 PM

Either way Bob. These are lovely additions to your superb collection.  :tu:

+1  :salute:

I like the look of the Electrician pliers  :tu:


I'd send them for you to look at Tony but they would probably come back with a blackened burn hole between the jaws. :pok: :D

That has been known in the past but not so much now  :D

(volt stick   ;)  )

 :cheers:


I'm not quite there yet myself :whistle: :D


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/Bobbys/Temp%20Stuff/voltstick_zps3ab772e2.jpg)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Sparky415 on January 18, 2014, 10:57:03 PM

 :rofl:  Thats never happened to me    :whistle:

 :pok:  You need something like this Bob

http://www.amprobe.com/amprobe/usen/electrical-testers/high-voltage-test---tic-tracer/tic-300-pro.htm?PID=73374
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 18, 2014, 11:10:41 PM

 :rofl:  Thats never happened to me    :whistle:

 :pok:  You need something like this Bob

http://www.amprobe.com/amprobe/usen/electrical-testers/high-voltage-test---tic-tracer/tic-300-pro.htm?PID=73374

Looks effective!  (but far less entertaining than my current method of determining if voltage is present) :P :D
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: enki_ck on January 19, 2014, 12:08:03 AM
Oh, are we comparing burnt wire cutters? Can I play too?

I still remember the sparks. :ahhh It was like New year. :dd:

(http://i493.photobucket.com/albums/rr294/nickpong/livewire.jpg)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 19, 2014, 01:07:18 AM
Wow, that's quite impressive Nikola! :o :D
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Ombudsman on January 21, 2014, 09:31:52 PM

The handles are made to come apart too. I wonder if they planned to offer different style pliers? And maybe different handles too, perhaps with a variety of different blades and such?

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypest_zps6abd552e.jpg)


I Knew that I've seen this design before...  This is the Patent (https://www.google.com/patents/US20020046425?dq=inassignee:%22Fiskars+Brands,+Inc.%22&ei=4dPeUq7lEIaD2AXZ5YD4AQ) (filed in 1998 and approved in 2001)

(https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/US20020046425A1/US20020046425A1-20020425-D00000.png)

(https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/US6721983B2/US06721983-20040420-D00002.png)

(https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/US6721983B2/US06721983-20040420-D00004.png)

Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Gareth on January 21, 2014, 11:46:51 PM
Oh, a 'cutter' head to go with it, that would have been cool. :tu:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on January 22, 2014, 04:12:30 AM
Well would you look at that! :cheers: Hah, I've read a lot of multitool patents, but I've never seen that one before! Wow, that means they were pretty serious about this tool at some point. I see though later on in that very patent they are showing photos that look like the Evolution MP650. And I can see why from a manufacturing standpoint they would go with the 650 instead of this reversible jaw tool. Whatever, it's still neat to see some of the background history on this tool. Thanks Ombuds!! :tu:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Ombudsman on January 22, 2014, 08:35:59 AM
Well would you look at that! :cheers: Hah, I've read a lot of multitool patents, but I've never seen that one before! Wow, that means they were pretty serious about this tool at some point. I see though later on in that very patent they are showing photos that look like the Evolution MP650. And I can see why from a manufacturing standpoint they would go with the 650 instead of this reversible jaw tool. Whatever, it's still neat to see some of the background history on this tool. Thanks Ombuds!! :tu:

Anytime ! :salute:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Ombudsman on January 22, 2014, 08:37:50 AM
Oh, a 'cutter' head to go with it, that would have been cool. :tu:

Indeed !  8)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: lowtech on July 09, 2014, 09:26:52 PM
I just thought this needed a Bump.

And I read that you are missing a Multilite for the purple lid you have - I do have  2 Multilites and would be willing to trade one for some other Gerber stuff that you might have twice.

Btw, is there a place wher MP 600 FPR variants are discussed?  :think:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on July 16, 2014, 01:04:23 AM
I just thought this needed a Bump.

And I read that you are missing a Multilite for the purple lid you have - I do have  2 Multilites and would be willing to trade one for some other Gerber stuff that you might have twice.

Btw, is there a place wher MP 600 FPR variants are discussed?  :think:

Thank you Thomas :salute: I am indeed still looking for a Multi-Lite to use with my purple lid. I will send you a PM :)

I think First Production Run Gerber tools have been mentioned several times over the years, but I do not recall a specific thread about them..? :think:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gregozedobe on July 16, 2014, 02:00:09 AM
Btw, is there a place wher MP 600 FPR variants are discussed?  :think:

I'm with Bob, I think the info is scattered across several threads.  What did you want to know ?
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: lowtech on July 16, 2014, 09:59:35 AM
Thanks for the PM. I´ll have to think about it.  ;)
Regarding the MP 600 FPR - I do have a Needlenose one with black lock-tabs.
Sadly, the plain edge blade is missing the tip.
Now I am contemplating if it is (from a collectors standpoint) worthwile to look for another MPP 600 with this early blade type and repair teh FPR or if I either just regrind the blade and use it or - shock horror - use it as a mod base?!

Alternatively, I´d trade it in with any MP 600 variant if anyone is looking for such a specimen.
 
And above all I´m just curious what different FPR tools there were.

Oh, and I´m a bit jealous on your prototype collction...  ;)
Nah, not really - They are in teh right hands Bob - although Gregs opinion on this might differ. 

While we are at it - how common are the fiskars branded Multipliers? I guess they must be from teh time when Gerber became part of the Fiskars universe and Fiskars wanted to sell some Multis themselves?
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gregozedobe on July 16, 2014, 01:47:09 PM
Regarding the MP 600 FPR - I do have a Needlenose one with black lock-tabs.
Sadly, the plain edge blade is missing the tip.
Now I am contemplating if it is (from a collectors standpoint) worthwile to look for another MPP 600 with this early blade type and repair teh FPR or if I either just regrind the blade and use it or - shock horror - use it as a mod base?!

Alternatively, I´d trade it in with any MP 600 variant if anyone is looking for such a specimen.
 
And above all I´m just curious what different FPR tools there were.

Oh, and I´m a bit jealous on your prototype collction...  ;)
Nah, not really - They are in teh right hands Bob - although Gregs opinion on this might differ. 

While we are at it - how common are the fiskars branded Multipliers? I guess they must be from teh time when Gerber became part of the Fiskars universe and Fiskars wanted to sell some Multis themselves?

From what I've seen the MP600 FPR with black locktabs are less common than the version with grey locktabs, so definitely collector material.  If you aren't that keen on it I'll gladly take it off your hands  :pok:  PM me with what you'd like for it.

As far as Gerber multitools go I've only ever seen FPR on the original Mr Pinchy (Multi-Plier), Multi-Lite and MP600 (Multi-Lock).  Has anyone ever seen it on an MP400 or other MTs ?

I'm also jealous of Bobs's Gerber prototypes, but am willing to concede they are in good hands  :salute:

The Fiskars branded early Multi-Pliers are much less common than the Gerber branded version, and the ones I've seen have a different tool load as well.

Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on July 16, 2014, 09:46:10 PM
I agree!! :o The MP600 FPR is far too special to be used as mod fodder. I'm sure Greg or myself or someone else would be happy to trade you for a standard MP600 that would be a better starting point for modification. :salute:


Like Greg, I have seen "First Production Run" etched on the original Gerber Mr. Pinchy, the Multi-Lite, and the MP600. (Both needle nose and blunt nose versions of the MP600)

Also, on the topic of FPR multitools, I've also seen Bear Jaws 155, Bucktool 360, and Bucktool 355 models so marked.


As an interesting side note, I once had a discussion with the gentleman at Gerber who was credited with inventing the sliding jaws concept. He confided to me that with all the pre-release hype they were under enormous pressure to bring the first Mr Pinchy tools to market, and there was no time to fix all the little mistakes, which of course they were well aware of. (misplaced cutouts in handles, nail nicks on wrong side of blades, etc) So someone came up with the genius idea of marking the tools First Production Run, which deflected most of the negative criticism when they finally hit the market, and in the long run made the tools MORE desirable/valuable, not LESS. ;)

Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: lowtech on July 16, 2014, 10:23:39 PM
Thanks for the insight! My little one is taking up my time atm, but I´ll get back to both of you regarding the possible trades.

Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gregozedobe on January 31, 2015, 01:53:22 PM

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypessaa_zpse4a2718a.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypessbb_zpscba653d4.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesscc_zpsfa8c57ae.jpg)

It seems Gerber must have made at least two of these purple/pink little gems, as I just won one on eBay (mine comes with a "standard" tool load body ie serrated blade).  I had some stiff competition for it (obviously another Gerber collector), but unlike several recent rare MTs on eBay I wasn't outbid this time  :D
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Gareth on January 31, 2015, 02:57:20 PM
:woohoo:  Nice catch mate.
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: lowtech on February 01, 2015, 01:00:04 PM
 :tu:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: SteveC on February 01, 2015, 06:33:59 PM
Great score  :tu:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on February 04, 2015, 03:19:44 PM
Congrats Greg! Was yours just the top piece (like mine) or did you get the entire tool? :)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gregozedobe on February 04, 2015, 10:59:38 PM
Congrats Greg! Was yours just the top piece (like mine) or did you get the entire tool? :)
Thanks all.  I didn't expect to ever get a purple/pink Multi-lite, but it just goes to show you should never say never  :D

This one came with a "standard" (most common ?) tool load body ie serrated blade.

I wonder if they made any other colours for the top piece ? ie besides black, green and purple/pink

This post suggests there is a possibility, but the poster hasn't been on MTo for a couple of years:
http://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,35912.msg578528.html#msg578528
Quote
Thanks that was a very fast reply.    It is a little odd ball not having a needle nose pliers but the tools it has work great and have been invaluable over the years.    I bought this in 1997 in Towanda Pa.
Funny you mention flea markets when we lived in Gainesville Va in 2001 there was a flea market across the highway, one of the stands had a dozen of the plastic covers in different colors.    They were made in China.    I didn't buy any but wish I had.
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: ReamerPunch on August 11, 2016, 02:39:26 PM
No wonder Poncho necro'd threads. These are awesome!
That reversible plier head was so neat! What a shame it was never released.  :-\
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: ddogu on August 11, 2016, 04:14:07 PM
Hard to believe! Especially the one with detachable pliers, OMG  :sa: :popcorn:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: J-sews on August 12, 2016, 08:59:47 PM
Agreed! :tu:  Yeah I tell you what, some of these tools that Gerber experimented with and DIDN'T produce are way better than some of the crap that they DID produce. (I'm thinking Radius, Steady, Freehand, etc, etc, etc) ::) ::)

Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Poncho65 on August 16, 2016, 03:50:39 PM
No wonder Poncho necro'd threads. These are awesome!
That reversible plier head was so neat! What a shame it was never released.  :-\

That's right 8) I love a lot of the old threads for this very reason :like: Many great pics and reviews and info have been amassed over the years here at MTO :dd:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Poncho65 on August 16, 2016, 03:51:48 PM
Agreed! :tu:  Yeah I tell you what, some of these tools that Gerber experimented with and DIDN'T produce are way better than some of the crap that they DID produce. (I'm thinking Radius, Steady, Freehand, etc, etc, etc) ::) ::)

Makes you think "What are they thinking sometimes ??? " :facepalm:

 :D
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Poncho65 on August 16, 2016, 03:52:14 PM
New page banana man dance

:nanadance:      :nanadance:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Gareth on August 25, 2016, 09:45:26 AM
Agreed! :tu:  Yeah I tell you what, some of these tools that Gerber experimented with and DIDN'T produce are way better than some of the crap that they DID produce. (I'm thinking Radius, Steady, Freehand, etc, etc, etc) ::) ::)

Makes you think "What are they thinking sometimes ??? " :facepalm:

 :D

I suppose this highlights the other factors in bringing a tool to market; ease of production, cost of production, is there a place for it in the marketplace? etc. etc.
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gregozedobe on July 27, 2018, 12:43:21 PM
Necro thread revival (but definitely related to the OP).

I think I have managed to get the rest of the prototypes from the same source as the original mother-lode.  It did take some years of pestering and reminding, but persistance paid off.

Off course Bob had cherry picked the choicest MTs (and so he should have, but I'm still jealous), but I'm happy with what I got:

MP600 hard coated with a metallic gold(ish) colour on the handles and pliers (definitely a different finish to the others that seem to be painted).

MP600 with Lime green handles (looks to be very similar to Bob's example)

MP600 with light copper coloured handles

MP600 with one orange handle and one dark blue handle

MP800 (legend) with navy blue handles and BO pliers (this also seems to be a very hard coating - possibly ceracoat or similar ?)


AFAIK that was the last of the prototypes this seller had, but who knows ?
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Yadda on July 27, 2018, 01:45:48 PM
Necro thread revival (but definitely related to the OP).

I think I have managed to get the rest of the prototypes from the same source as the original mother-lode.  It did take some years of pestering and reminding, but persistance paid off.

Off course Bob had cherry picked the choicest MTs (and so he should have, but I'm still jealous), but I'm happy with what I got:

MP600 hard coated with a metallic gold(ish) colour on the handles and pliers (definitely a different finish to the others that seem to be painted).

MP600 with Lime green handles (looks to be very similar to Bob's example)

MP600 with light copper coloured handles

MP600 with one orange handle and one dark blue handle

MP800 (legend) with navy blue handles and BO pliers (this also seems to be a very hard coating - possibly ceracoat or similar ?)


AFAIK that was the last of the prototypes this seller had, but who knows?

Kudos Greg!

Great additions to your collection! You and Bob are the best scroungers ever!
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Aloha on September 26, 2018, 11:40:08 PM
Just reading thru this thread again. 

Greg  :hatsoff: I am so happy you managed to get those tools.  Congrats even if its late.   :salute:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gregozedobe on September 27, 2018, 05:09:05 AM
Just reading thru this thread again. 

Greg  :hatsoff: I am so happy you managed to get those tools.  Congrats even if its late.   :salute:

Thanks, it was a bit of work to get them, but well worth it  :D
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gerleatherberman on September 27, 2018, 05:54:33 AM
These J-SEWS' threads are my favorites to go through. Too bad he doesn't come around the site anymore. :(

Congrats on the awesome acquisitions, gregozedobe! :like:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gregozedobe on September 27, 2018, 01:10:11 PM
These J-SEWS' threads are my favorites to go through. Too bad he doesn't come around the site anymore. :(

Congrats on the awesome acquisitions, gregozedobe! :like:

Thanks  :tu:

Bob is still collecting weird old MTs (the older and weirder the better  :D ), but he doesn't logon to MTo very often these days.  I'm hoping to encourage him to share his comprehensive knowledge on older MTs more frequently, but he's had a few setbacks this year.
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gerleatherberman on September 27, 2018, 02:28:35 PM
 :cheers:

That is quite understandable about Bob. I have been a member or owner of a couple forums in the past(not tool related) and had things pull me away that weren't related to the actual website subjects.  :ahhh

Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gerleatherberman on March 03, 2019, 06:09:59 AM

Oop, how did I miss that one? :P Yeah, it has an iridescent blue finish over the entire tool, including the pliers. I have no idea what it is. Some guys at work are speculating that it is blue anodize. But I didn't know you could anodize stainless...? :think:


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/jooliesews/gerber%20prototypes/Gerberprototypesg_zpsf688a19c.jpg)

Seems Gerber made those entire-anodized 600s in more than blue?

Just bought this.
(not my photo. will take more pics when it arrives)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gregozedobe on March 03, 2019, 02:42:56 PM
Seems Gerber made those entire-anodized 600s in more than blue?

They also made a gold coloured one as well  ;) . 

I'm not sure what the finish is, maybe cerakote or similar, on mine it is definitely tougher than the easily-chipped paint they put on most of their coloured MP600s
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Aloha on March 03, 2019, 03:21:00 PM
Nice grab gerleatherberman  :tu:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gerleatherberman on March 03, 2019, 03:43:25 PM
They also made a gold coloured one as well  ;) . 

I'm not sure what the finish is, maybe cerakote or similar, on mine it is definitely tougher than the easily-chipped paint they put on most of their coloured MP600s
Gold? Bet that looks good.  :o

It is a relief to know the finish is more durable. I am always a bit worried when opening the yellow painted 600. Much appreciated information. :salute:

Nice grab gerleatherberman  :tu:
Thank you, Aloha! :cheers:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Yadda on March 04, 2019, 07:26:36 PM
Seems Gerber made those entire-anodized 600s in more than blue?

Just bought this.
(not my photo. will take more pics when it arrives)

I saw this one.... Nice grab!
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gerleatherberman on March 04, 2019, 07:30:38 PM
Thank you, Yadda! :cheers:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: CarbideCruzer on January 05, 2020, 01:07:15 AM
Unfortunately none of the images on the first page and the vast majority on the two, third and fourth page are available to be viewed.  Not blaming any of the members, rather this is quite common with Photo Bucket.  This is why I encourage everyone to save images via screenshots, archiving sites or any other legal means so these images can be preserved for future use. 

This would be a novel concept if Gerber were to make a USA made multi tool with diagonal pliers. 
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Max Stone on January 05, 2020, 01:49:20 PM
Yes, it is sad that we've been dropped by Photobucket. The only reference to the Multi-Plier launch document (https://forum.multitool.org/index.php?topic=17190.0 (https://forum.multitool.org/index.php?topic=17190.0)) is now lost, and the poster (J-sews), has not been active for over a year.

There's a lot of great info on MT.o, and I try to upload pics directly to MT.o using the 4-pic limit per post. But sometimes you need to embed pics for longer articles, product reviews, etc. like this image:

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LBSlG7MUQ7CAQcYrkOGHbKDqELrI_KzVo3QfMHusxndZGCIjwQKRGLiybWQSL15pfbG-BK3klJ-vz5qrLmeHi7kg5t6R8IGIqriMfbHm3zhU0K-LWek_cdHfkbDY7VAwF6PakARsQPwY_AtdNCrRPXFyfrcOA4AeOSN-s61i5i6a8HwmACqsFICKz3hspBAV-59GRD13e5TOFUDokfYEk-_ulpHsOblB2rewtixToKgjGExTWGHlq-jyWGEyvGr3aQ_zhwe_5tXpztvuZ41t6mz5nNKrwOVXRi_ISFkoykqW-m08W9JFSG1ytGcaTpBqRzZCz5rJxTt7Dma7zU79pJCd1dTrGYUzbCfzeSg5NoYnudC2FYpBrbjGiEb1-0aRatYt8gj1Ga6DLmqkVC8K0aCefIihXH4Dn5_f9pIw8I0fkyzMVKTHRi7xEfHfCbD51gq7gUcW6zRoN2fzHFgPgYp84wydY14wZWqFumaTGc2JZ2SnOcKxsYCUaAOOq32gK59lUzWAZOcgejnde6aAKpjwi8eYzl2eewzTqjNLJD20ZpcMWQBgyHwlSIyU2nxGHJBGqFnhc_yUr5_9sNgbiBw7uwCeVbEhzM4QBVgpOiYM5uNz9krGaMg2QUzODCuEgjXnxAHGom1yvFaoVJ-eBr30iTUQNewIcZjljA1MaxphhGBWMJ71qQ=w1813-h669-no)

I suppose you can try to reference the original link in the post, so for this picture that I've created and posted in my Google album, I could reference the original patent link. But web pages change and links break, so I agree its best if it's possible to archive important images and docs.

Maybe someone still has contact with J-sews/Bob and he has a copy of the Gerber19921.jpg image archived somewhere?  :dunno:

Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: hiraboo on January 20, 2020, 03:19:01 PM
I have copies of his photo, but may not original quality.
I believe he will be back. As a temporary measure until then, I will duplicate his post as much as possible.

Original posted by J-sews;
https://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,49588.msg828953.html#msg828953



(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Z-VY5Y4FXhl2FTKnfMWXqANn0hO80SlUygGt0X3zikvx0XEazqsATERaBJu__Qfx1VSL48QDOQh5EMhnXefMdJdJk2EIKGuvtmdlgIIUVghXt28O8FX5mcRdSccE2pQk1r7bD5XZkA=w700-h493-no?.jpg)


Recently I was extremely fortunate enough to acquire an assortment of prototype Gerber tools. I know almost none of the background info on these items, other than that they were owned by a senior engineer or manager that left Gerber about ten or twelve years ago. Many of the tools themselves appear to be from the late 1990's/early 2000's, which was about the time Gerber was bringing out a number of other innovations such as the MP600 and MP400 lines, the Multi-Lite, the Build Your Own program, the MP700 and MP800 tools, etc.

MP600's with red handles or with yellow handles were available back then as part of a combo kit that included a crappy flashlight. Furthermore, handles in blue, green, orange, or white were also available through Gerber's custom Build Your Own program. Judging by these prototypes, Gerber was also experimenting with plenty of other colors too:

lime green w/black oxide
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vSg_GxtAAW3dpzauT39aTYVa0jLlrgDT7j7RQAqmSkvUit-Z3MwTxc-T1lWtpZlwBV1slXB-xNl0V05GZvZFxp0-yz0I8hXlJnLRYXZBrWJGEINB3KvvC6O-jHBVGQM0DPLmg4mLrw=w700-h505-no?.jpg)


copper w/black oxide
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PI6ICVYIiESvq3PxU-OU5at7yQ6ZIRvw96DhBFI77FbimFjaM-kkO5XePeb7n8misxEO584K-SVP0rWUa4HfRLi4tcRKF13KQ4jmVmaEb0RKI6qjzQBXesGOu9a312N0JFmylrhRrA=w700-h505-no?.jpg)


maroon w/stainless
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Q0lRbX0IxKZ2-9vT_THUPk2p0W0IDRcVB70BWSPdRDodUvRueYsvyTEHCnTy2E67AfpgZ3DAEFi0ZuXmxtN7VQ1Os5GKnxLgm5fCxgZ5wBFHQhaQwTMj0AVrCxmdGxz0ROfHI3s8-A=w700-h505-no?.jpg)


dark purple w/black oxide
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/KoZHWA_OP28lzCmMIWwdTtWKg1CCW__Rj1NjC75b-rJOspV0Nv3EjN2jR7fvwLA2DBMM4v5mHMsZDUAkpMd9dmLxoYnus6HnbZqbKvXrH5Pr7suaktZM2xr7QnTLVlLxewxPp6yKWQ=w700-h505-no?.jpg)


carbon fiber w/stainless
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HIAfu8sult2bkoKaDkXIbeUxsERBiyHpQ68NhCCjewImZe5T0MGRLKKJggFyV7uWRom6JoI5CyjGfh-eMYguJSdKQlaWeYARkSlypqWboWc1q3MEO4xcl3-xv_-NACsY_8VL3tWLyQ=w700-h505-no?.jpg)



MP700's were sold with a matte aluminum finish. A special "Terminator" version had a polished chrome finish. But none were sold with a colored finish to my knowledge. Here is an experimental blue one:

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PEbVf-XuoGtpmrQnMXM1CFsWt8T3reFBzHFz4yAPrPcw8GmzU4f2qqn4HRyYLcNvtqRF3Y85FauQo-Dxp6cs9Cq6018K0gMTqoS7byrEDmUEe05tscRsryKHI3oS0MqRr47b8I3sZw=w700-h505-no?.jpg)



Standard MP600's to this day are sold with a matte "bead-blast" stainless steel finish. Here is one that was given a full mirror polish job, including all of the folding blades except the Phillips and the file:

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QfkkC4Vk1FvHD7i9xWRBHm4Xt2YJy2ggJtB1j_FkqbcEZiWBzsComiMcPnzijgG5LZXQd6YKPhtaimo-ifbUrz-pc7PL1xEuCT_PLGWC2wXL95CSZh1u4d_1KxP2-12i5GSkJvDRaw=w700-h500-no?.jpg)



But the prototyping is not just limited to fancy paint jobs and finishes. Here is an MP600 (happens to be orange) that sports soft rubber grip panels, presumably for comfort. We've seen a couple of these tools previously, in black oxide finish.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/uzNzHcir74V3j9xI0pYJowXTxcUpYzqi1W4kC72OOIDfQsZKaIhlLVGRQ4yapxs_5BbJm08-aV25ZW3GmUcdGsBKklGORlNKwHtggRkWKkfF-h1kOafYb05IZhl1cUFFFfokzC54_w=w700-h505-no?.jpg)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6Mu4fO7nXV3jtbBLH1KPcMbs2Q7NbQmSWnXePfg3Q6Ou4xRwTUDm9TASq_HgSLfcjAdFnkhmXKJ6PhIEIu8s6hzuQoY9DVBAqOQBzivczIaT91w7BG51a--_sl0ng_2zEmw_IEzvhA=w700-h525-no?.jpg)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Tos1WsECHAJLmYBngAYUYWRqEs6X4tntD-7jSJsJELF6QYX7ju-1acFeqKmEnUuW0ZghQI7hiTFYg6e1EfrGncvGQ_OS9Cz0smWETIlAEYFzqU4271fR5nShaptnmqZq8EaHwFiL-g=w700-h518-no?.jpg)



Or how about an electrician's plier head? Bear Jaws makes a tool that has one, as does the little Leatherman Squirt EL. But this is a full sized MP600. Wonder if they ran into a patent conflict or something and that's why they never made any more?

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jSdLma2dew95ypdMGDF_bsm7BPllYWpFxWRl8qppdgoNvcKlRH6ZB_qpl59IJSsm_7TNoZm4TvBMKhGWehRWznxihafBubip3ICCHKrsg1jAm9VO8ORGTYihDqZoszbhetxoCNGVCg=w700-h505-no?.jpg)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/EFJGwXvbLezP3sdb6P7TiNjS3DQX5wJnvdIjXztkZlOszZmVY7MWg78Wt4a2qBvn-noJYp7dAdH53QUsYrPDGI6Tfnw2kHxxDJ_-V5YM_seTuGHUP-w4bgMe2DIb4N7ywg34VnxxbA=w700-h505-no?.jpg)



Here's a real doozy of a tool. It has a fancy removable plier head.

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZvVj5kZH2Eh3bx1grLskZCYXwmkdGI1Iolejag0Xz1p78SzqX9QelY4QPMLKz8nvU4J4E3dkFLM-ugYVj4B16f4bDxRT1QB4QRS4T3ysD3r4ekm1qs1NivVFac7k0JgNpLBKiuEKfg=w700-h505-no?.jpg)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/SeiFWTmLpVb3Bt--1VVDcoWfCJER3wCnxmHUlM8MBt4Flp1lyQSARGdQBGQ0EYXwG80YQmopuTpQI3CpzlEq6eJuCOU4J0jdFxGUO_RT5Xxu0zSQBmJ_ibl1d5EKgxIbHfIAoj3L4A=w700-h505-no?.jpg)




Just push in the spring-loaded buttons on either side of the pliers and it pops right off:

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cUQrn687tT9Uwcif4G2daWiXo3I5nlzzzfn4_VkbpdTsGyXQSySmznyNY2iMmLOt_7y4fCldZt4McsIIJs-JwCM_FVLYUpoOx7_NtZ3MxK0p2EcPyZUEXsCSlMMo8LJi8xO0K7q4tQ=w700-h525-no?.jpg)




The handles are made to come apart too. I wonder if they planned to offer different style pliers? And maybe different handles too, perhaps with a variety of different blades and such?

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VxYuGS7021DVxnGwzXdVCUoSOPSp1cYfsHrbd2KHMb9GhX2SsNhEFSOeWETFSP7Op3nFTwhbnSEDzptej2LssaPhOKaW28vJu2eEJh-Xh_7BdwSkFYLvTfQnXUOBcVRwR8XGlnSbeA=w700-h497-no?.jpg)



EDIT:
Hey, I just realized the entire head is reversible! :tu:

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8iDbzadrnWcToUhAireWIBkEy_kPnKqqMlH4xTwvcF1rDL_BFMcZZL0L558I7c3wKAzpocsIrpQw46ndpbMUyeKqjdbvcMPO4GTPSoFUI943tulijPyDFjX7JuTGUE_SRY62ErN_A=w700-h505-no?.jpg)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: hiraboo on January 20, 2020, 03:20:12 PM
Original posted by J-sews;
https://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,49588.msg828960.html#msg828960



More fun stuff. :)


A special belt sheath that holds the tool in place with powerful magnets:

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/djkHaTL4pmDnPkF_bOA_Beqj4PV79Em-DY4qT3li7fgauob_csXKNtQp9SeQNgFe0GmdYjhoGBaYRVSpsSUMMFe0YXL5ZGke7Lf8QYJ6tIr6t-UBMzwDZkMu0ateJUUCDxxGiv_R7A=w700-h548-no?.jpg)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/SlIqfUAY5Zx-h7R3OwBWgrvRC_ITYL2YhxItEAtddwN39w3QNt8Jo3M1TaHOfQqgXFZs3DwCqJ5hp7qpCUXHKD3VNUAodos6_7ruevUVKh1QZPazpJOjPxVgWWKhXSCjQKaQm33qfg=w700-h552-no?.jpg)



A PRE PRODUCTION PROTOTYPE of old Mr. Pinchy

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/u5GcFkTB2RkW1-3S9vXAdgTtSICe0K2rD0floVefh9hNnZ-I8I433jao_wFJYh46EdkkPkvlOlzCp6mBMJNIyl4Ugo07Eo1WCM-xLyBIEJVQ4UubhZaZPegD2F2soMJzJJYhXDbKIg=w700-h502-no?.jpg)



The tool loadout definitely has a "pre-production" look about it: :whistle:

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/bXdDgCMqW04Bvy4ic3933i98qMun3xbPYRnJ8X-kauYVd_rzqaDIsEK4uGgoIbZGQ4hq-yWcbNKnUSIAr47BgEPM5RPcJ1-aD4HZAiBWjF1ja2e6AYDzDdGYh_uaBWXeS-OMBdhOVA=w700-h554-no?.jpg)



Looks like the engineers were playing around with the ability to fold the tools completely around to the backside. That might be handy from time to time:

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/KlETICWU85A7NQC9J0j9AMl0nF9TC5t6cG5E1Hzug-D_f653HdleTArelaYAY5-yc1_GwVjfyQp9NKh-sHoH90O8COhGYMmKoeIJtDc1UhWL5QS56lgEtdDUNC7EJk45jj1CGnBiKA=w700-h522-no?.jpg)



Not a prototype, but some type of a sales milestone award. The entire tool is gold plated, including all of the blades. It doesn't appear to have seen much heavy usage. :D

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Q3yErz8gQV1cLvKIuqcdfym_tA2mRFyKOl3tiXgO8AoyLHSMWV4JUVd4y6PNAACt7vjVi-XAOzHK19cPMVZ6vjdkoxdayEtGgFIv82XVzZT2stAqKhhMN4SJIadtv61r30LPiRJp-w=w700-h512-no?.jpg)


Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Max Stone on January 20, 2020, 10:41:12 PM
Thanks hiraboo for recovering these lost pictures. They are extremely interesting  :like:

The one I’m trying to recover is the only reference to the Multi-Plier launch https://forum.multitool.org/index.php?topic=17190.0 (https://forum.multitool.org/index.php?topic=17190.0) which Is also lost. Unless you have some magic to recover this too?  :dunno:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Top-Gear-24 on January 20, 2020, 11:35:09 PM
Can't help with restoring the pics, but thank you guys for doing such a great job  :salute:.

Oh, and that Copper/BO MP600 ...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4SXpOFQ9T8
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Juan el Boricua on January 21, 2020, 12:18:12 AM
Thank you, hiraboo, for not only your recovery efforts, but for your contributions on other sub forums; the information, pictures and references are useful and valuable additions to this great hobby. Kudos to you Sir, on your inniciative, work and commitment!  :hatsoff:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: hiraboo on January 21, 2020, 05:13:27 AM
That's all the photos I keep.

Original posted by J-sews;
https://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,49588.msg828970.html#msg828970



Oop, how did I miss that one? :P Yeah, it has an iridescent blue finish over the entire tool, including the pliers. I have no idea what it is. Some guys at work are speculating that it is blue anodize. But I didn't know you could anodize stainless...? :think:

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IAaSMrw4nhvd46nXETptqyNMd45m-SOxICYLyYIl541kPtmVl1ExixlkecY5R2JxpokZLu3Qe5GskRdIuG1vHi7W2ds8dkVVVzxKwddRsmr7IG6PWRKAtdRp4tIQwc1EaFxlfpborA=w700-h505-no?.jpg)




Original posted by J-sews;
https://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,49588.msg829093.html#msg829093



Sure thing! :tu: You mean from the end, like this?

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/G6He3OHcNUqrB5CcUL31KqmbIzxlxzPGrB3dfWptmJX_e46ieCH52mrl0AeFCZG5aTMAHUZPLNWHRzTUujiuLcxPNJqT4SmffStK9EQ96RARLidy9W7B52Tx0_maLXokZpbiOmsGag=w700-h501-no?.jpg)




Original posted by J-sews;
https://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,49588.msg829731.html#msg829731



Thanks again for the kind words folks. :) And rest assured that I've doubled the guards around the perimeter and updated the retinal scanners on the vault. Gotta keep these babies safe you know! :salute: :D


Purple Multi-Lite pictures coming right up! Unfortunately there was only the top piece, so I'll have to keep an eye out for a donor bottom piece and blades. It looks to be a standard top, just molded from purple plastic:

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vIwBkh881eyrcBSPPfEaKvDluRXSvRxB-I2NJOmbmErdFzGMEnTCCTL2PUoqxSlcbQ9hYzTkvHBpc3Da99y729Y4dYE9J-J1uYv1Kf0FT8XRlfCMkMrtJDsxRQX5ezcK5RO_75AXFg=w700-h477-no?.jpg)



It came with a full compliment of tiny tools in the secret compartment:

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZVdysut9HUQFNVlUPN_Km8A1O6yCm-qGJ7Y5qF8ETwwTvTVoAFmwJR_Ti2n65TKk3Gs3z216XX3fbDHh4y7SybnbJy_gy4B9_IIxWlAVHgcB1qHnLkTMKgrxZe5hur7xgoTXsonW5A=w700-h506-no?.jpg)



Amber colored LED, of typically underwhelming brightness:

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xzDqL1iAu1BVpphKBDebu0RTuQ33fIFoqGKficweHMzPswGFJuJXnxcAstHQmIQ_hSZCOiBsCYGffbjoeCTt1g0QFm2292As2rtiVtQNRf-3iIZR6sOuclSWI67xillIVJZhNTzKrw=w700-h521-no?.jpg)




> Max Stone

Some years ago when I was not a registered member, I downloaded his photos in this thread and saved them in my Hard Disk. I happen to know your important suggestion, I remembered that.(;゚0゚)

But unfortunately, I didn’t do same thing in another thread.
So I can’t recover his another posts. (;ω;)
I will continue to cooperate with you. (๑•̀ㅂ•́)و

> Top-Gear-24

Thank you for your kind words. ( ˶˙ᵕ˙˶ )
I recommend that you save your favorite threads to your own computer. It might be useful sometime unexpectedly.

> Juan el Boricua

Thank you very much! (◜◡◝)
I'm also getting a lot of information from you.
I am very happy to be able to exchange information with friends who have the same hobby. ٩(ˊᗜˋ*)و
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gregozedobe on January 21, 2020, 01:27:14 PM

Oop, how did I miss that one? :P Yeah, it has an iridescent blue finish over the entire tool, including the pliers. I have no idea what it is. Some guys at work are speculating that it is blue anodize. But I didn't know you could anodize stainless...? :think:


I have one that I think has a similar coating, only mine is gold coloured (including the pliers).  IMO it is more like a ceracote, it certainly seems durable and quite chip resistant, unlike the more common painted versions that chip and flake very easily (look around the slot for the sliding pliers and you will see areas where the paint is missing on most of them, even ones that show no other signs of wear).
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: hiraboo on January 25, 2020, 03:14:16 PM
It may be temporary, but you can download his photo for now.

> Greg

I always admire your vast knowledge and collection. w(゜o゜)w
I'm happy to restore J-saw's post to you.

Original posted by J-sews;
https://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,49588.msg829749.html#msg829749

Hey, the ebay pictures of yours are still up Greg! I was able to save them and repost here: :cheers:

Greg's safety lime yellow
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wUhg90Sn2xOV6tM1FwnCtqf2q1XNEP_XZ90KmNQXASuOZMBRG8A_bJLEbxAs71eIGhPiYOUgeixrJWQru7G6Xt1CY8gSZsQwcAm5YxKsNMxJ_IQnJHRxhw93yxKrBEMQoYScci_q_g=w640-h447-no?.jpg)


(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/t-PPBzXODRm0tje-wRCUlmptjNbjrem3AP7P3WeIK7P2P-U1ACv9AfSanE8McnZ-JfS0AzeVgqD_Cw_GTzEHkymq-vu5HMZdKw3M1dyrPKQwOhyEWZDlbYZa86G_bCIKj3-3jFH5Zw=w640-h220-no?.jpg)
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Rapidray on January 25, 2020, 03:47:53 PM
A reversible headed plier - now that would have been neat! That would have been a winner! Great collection!  :hatsoff:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: hiraboo on January 26, 2020, 01:26:27 AM
> ALL

These posts are not mine originally, but J-sew’s posts.
Due to some issues around photobucket.com, you can hardly see many important photos posted by J-sew.
So I will back up his photos and restore some of his posts.
I apologize for the confusion.

Thanks to Max Stone. Without your suggestion, I have not realized the importance of backing up J-saw posts.
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: gregozedobe on January 26, 2020, 04:41:49 AM
Thanks hiraboo, you are a true asset to MTo  :salute: :tu: :hatsoff:
Title: Re: Some Gerber prototypes from late 1990's/early 2000's
Post by: Max Stone on January 26, 2020, 09:56:55 PM
Thank you hiraboo, these restored posts are most valuable for the forum.  :salute: