Gerber/Bear Gryll’s folders

I’ve always respected Gerber’s no-nonsense built for purpose’ approach to field cutlery. So interesting to see if Bear Gryll’s input elevates’ these endorsed products from similar designs in their range. Features common to all are the drop point, fine edge, ½-serrated blades, manufactured from 420HC Stainless Steel with a weather resistant coating. The lock back mechanism holds blades securely when deployed and maximises on safety during closing.

Apart from the Compact Scout, which uses a nail nick for opening, all the others use dual-sided thumb studs for easy single handed operation. The ergonomic textured rubber handles (the Sheath and Scout having hi-viz orange handle sections fore and aft) offer a comfortable non-slip grip with a choil for the fore finger and a rear section that tapers down accordingly to accommodate other digits. There are also holes that pierce the top rear of the hard polymer hilt for a hand lanyard.

Now a look at each knife individually, dimensions, specifications and features particular to each model.

Heavy Duty

The Folding Sheath Knife shows a 3 5/8” blade and measures 4 ¾” closed and 8 5/8” open and weighs 4.3oz. So we can dispel the misconception that it’s a clone of the top of the range, fixed blade Ultimate Knife. The integral thumb-stop/rest rises at the front of the handle to combine with the generous length of notched grooves on the spine offering maximum grip and control. There’s also no milled flat on the spine for a fire-starter tool, but more importantly balance is nigh on perfect.

Due to the substantial size and build what you have here is a very useful and easy to use heavy-duty folder. Closed its compact enough for easy stowage and is the only model to come with its own carry pouch. A military-grade, mildew-resistant heavy duty nylon sheath, designed to allow for a horizontal or vertical carry on your belt.

Not So Tough

Measuring 4 1/8” closed and 7 3/8” open with its 3.2” blade and weighing 2.4oz the Scout is a slightly less tough cookie but holds a useful and quite slimmer blade. No thumb stop, but the top ridging extends from the handle to just forward of the thumb stud position affording an equal secure grip and hold. The slight, forward-weighted feel is par for the course, but when held firmly in the hand isn’t cause for concern. Also, the metal clothing clip offers good carry options and isn’t obtrusive in the hand.

The lightweight Compact Scout offers a 2 ¼” blade and measures 3 ¼” closed, 5 ¾” and weighs a mere 0.88oz. In my opinion the surprise of the trio as on handling you immediately appreciate the perfect balance due to the handle to blade ratio being spot on. The oversize fore-finger notch and rear outward curve accommodate your three primary digits ideally while the top thumb-ridging extends almost half the length of the blade. Very Neat!