Gerber Mp1 Multi-tool

For Gerber to present us with the MP1 indicates they feel it fills a particular niche otherwise not fully catered for. I say that as they even state ‘the aim of the Gerber MP1 isn’t just to have the most components; but has moreover been designed to deliver the ones many will need most often.’

PRETTY BUTTERFLY

Manufactured from a combination of high grade steels this butterfly opener measures 4.38” closed and 6.94” with the pliers head deployed; weight is at 8ozs. Seemingly biased towards home (workshop) use, it’s no slouch in the field either due to the selection of blades and the very useful, wide-gape, spring-loaded pliers.

The pliers are manufactured from 6150 Carbon Steel while 420 High Carbon Steel has been used for the blades and tools. Continuing the spec you get a total of 12 professional-grade components, including the pliers, three blades, three screwdrivers and a pry bar bottle opener, the MP1 also distinguishes itself with its distinctive butterfly design and of course those high quality carbon steel, spring-loaded jaws.

I refer back to the ‘pliers’ for a particular reason as the jaws are forged – a process that makes them stronger than ‘cast’ versions. Another highly praiseworthy feature are the ergonomically designed, moulded composite G-10 handles. They not only feel good in the hold but eliminate sharp edges, while the textured surface adds security when used in cold or wet weather conditions.

NEEDLE NOSE

The MP1 features needlenose pliers, hard wire cutters and wire strippers. All other tools are accessed from the outside of the handles when in their closed position. All are easily deployed using elongated thumbholes, thumb nicks or of such a size (such as the ‘extended’ bit driver holder) that they can easily be pushed out with the fingers. The outboard tools include a 3” fine edge modified ‘Tanto’ blade, 3” fully serrated blade, extra thick pry bar/bottle opener, an elongated magnetic bit driver holding a #2 Phillips head bit. This item can be used with any compatible bit head. Also there’s large, medium and small flat head screwdrivers and the ‘utility blade’. This last item is specified as being ‘the perfect implement’ for rough work and scraping surfaces that might otherwise not require a large blade or potentially damage the MP1’s fine edge blade.’

Gerber’s patented ‘wedge-lock’ system ensures all tools are held out securely when deployed and over the years has proved to be amongst the most reliable and solid mechanisms seen on any multi-tool.

In my opinion, the Gerber MP1 is a very well designed and uniquely featured multi-tool – the addition of a full serrated blade will interest many as will the elongated bit driver and spring-loaded wide-gape pliers - it’s user friendly and compact enough for workshop needs as well as field use.

PRICE: SRP £139.99 including belt pouch and lifetime warranty
CONTACT: Gerber, 01978 264716 www.gerbergear.co.uk
FOR: Quality of manufacture Tools for all needs
AGAINST: Not a lot
VERDICT: Easy to use, tough and good tool selection