Gerber/Bear Grylls Multi-Tools

As a bit of an expert on multis, the Editor asked me to check out the two from Gerber’s Bear Grylls range. The Compact and Ultimate are without doubt familiar looking butterfly openers, with stainless steel frames and gunmetal scales. It’s the cosmetics and bright orange ‘BG’ logo that attract the eye with only a few changes to the functions.

The Compact is 2 ½” closed and 4 .3” open. It weighs 3oz and shows spring-action, needle nose pliers, plus wire cutters. It feels good in the hand despite the diminutive size and is capable of undertaking small, fiddly tasks one-handed. Functions are a 1 ¾” fine edge drop point and 1 ¾” serrated edge blades, medium Phillips, small and medium flat head screwdrivers, bottle opener, tweezers and lanyard ring.

The Ultimate has a lot to live up to, given its name. Measuring 4” closed and 6.3” open it weighs 8.8ozs. The pliers with wire stripper are identical to the Compacts but more substantial. The big handles with their rubber gripping panels give a good hold and grip. Functions offer a 2” fine edge and fully serrated blades, 2” wood saw, Phillips, small and medium flat head screwdrivers, bottle/ can opener, scissors and lanyard ring. Lockable they use Gerber’s patented Safe.T.Plus System.

• Prices: Gerber Bear Grylls Compact Multi-Tool £24.99

• Ultimate Multi-Tool £49.99

• Contact: 01506 406277 for nearest stockists www.gerbergear.com

• For: A couple of effective designs from the masters of multi-tools

• Against: Reinventing the wheel maybe with new packaging

• Verdict: Worth a look