Gerber Bear Grylls Survival Tools

Over the last few years I reckon I’ve tested more products from Gerber’s Bear Grylls Survival Series of kit than many other writers and the majority have shown that they have a place in the hunter’s or outdoorsman’s ‘kit bag.’ With that in mind, the following trio of products might initially seem to lean more toward being of use to the outdoorsman but for the ‘hide builder’ they do cross over to be of use for specific hunting scenarios.

Saw point

First up is the BG Sliding Saw, which measures 8.5-inches in the closed position, 14.75-inches with the aggressive toothed blade deployed and weighs 5oz. The crosscut teeth design cuts on both the forward and backward stroke, while the rugged, rubberised handle ensures that you won’t lose your grip. Releasing the generously sized locking screw on the right-hand side of the tool allows the six-inch blade to be slid out from the handle and to either/ or hold it out securely in the open position or keep it safely in the closed position when it’s retracted into the handle. If cutting small branches to length, clearing a path, or collecting firewood, the sliding saw works quickly and efficiently, in both wet and muddy conditions.

Compact Parang

Alternatively, while a ‘billhook’ has long been used for clearing away ground foliage for a clear hide interior, there are now many types of ‘machete’ on the market – one of the most popular being the BG Compact Parang. Modelled after the tool Indonesian tribesmen have carried into the jungles for generations, this is Gerber’s ‘compact’ answer to the standard, full-sized model.

With an overall length of 15.08-inches and weighing 13oz the high carbon 1005 steel, full tang construction, means strength isn’t an issue. Its compact 9.34- inch blade also makes it easier to handle. The ‘zero-slip’ rubberised polypropylene ergonomic handle, oversized bolster and butt keeps the tool snug and safe in the hold. For extra security, the strong lanyard cord (supplied) can be slipped around your wrist. Also, the size and shape of its blade focuses weight toward the tip for more power behind every swing.

And with a high carbon steel, full tang construction, it’s not going to bend, bow or wobble when it strikes hard wood; not only that, the compact blade is far more manageable to use while clearing away ground foliage and/or using in dense undergrowth. For safety and stowage during transportation, it comes supplied with a militarygrade, mildew-resistant Nylon sheath that can be strapped to your belt or backpack.

Hatchet job

Last but not least, and measuring 9.46-inches in length from top of head to bottom of handle, the BG Hatchet boasts a 3.5-inch blade and weighs 20.8oz. Due to the design, most of its ‘heft’ is concentrated in the head, so it’s able to easily ‘chop above its weight class.’ The razor sharp 3Cr13MoV Steel blade gives swift, precise cuts and is equally adept at limbing dead trees, as it is splitting logs; so, if building a more substantial hide, this tool would be a useful addition to your kit. The hatchet’s sturdy stainless steel, full-tang construction stands up to the hardest tasks. The ergonomic polypropylene rubberised handle fills your hand to create a locktight grip that won’t let go even when wet. The addition of finger notches just below the head let you choke up securely on the axe for more precise control, such as when feathering kindling or stripping bark. There’s also a handy lanyard hole at the base of the handle. Opposite the blade, the back of the head features a crosshatched striking surface that can be used for all types of duties; from hammering in hide-pegs straightening bent backpack frames, hide poles to even tenderising meat at home. When not in use, you can keep the blade safely inside its militarygrade, mildew-resistant Nylon sheath, complete with loops that strap to your belt or backpack.