Gerber MP1 Multi-Tool

It’s been quite some time since any major blade manufacturer released a completely new model of this type of field cutlery. So for Gerber to present us with the MP1 indicates they feel it fills a particular niche that’s not already fully catered for. I’d say that’s a fair assumption to make, especially as the company 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.’

Build Quality

Manufactured from a combination of high-grade steels this multi-tool measures 4.38 inches in the closed position, 6.94 inches with the plier heads deployed and weighs in at 8oz. Seemingly biased towards home (workshop) use, it’s no slouch for use in the field either due to the selection of implements and the very useful wide-gape spring loaded pliers.

The plier head jaws are manufactured from 6150 Carbon Steel while 420 High Carbon Steel has been used for the blades and tools. While the specifications run to it having a total of 12 professional-grade components, including 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 plier jaws are forged – a process that enables them to be stronger than cast versions. Another highly praiseworthy feature are the ergonomically designed moulded composite G-10 handles that feel good in the hold and eliminate sharp edges, while the textured surface adds grip security when used in cold or wet weather conditions.

Features

The MP1 head features needlenose pliers, hard wire cutters and wire strippers. All other tools are accessed from the outside of the handles when it is in the closed position and 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 three inch fine-edge modified ‘Tanto’ blade, three inch fully serrated blade, extra thick pry bar/bottle opener, an elongated magnetic bit driver holding a #2 Phillips head bit (however the holder can be used with any compatible bit head), large, medium and small flat head screwdrivers and a so named utility blade 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 securely in place 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 quite 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 on the go workshop needs as well as field use.

The Gerber MP1 is priced at £139.99 including heavy-duty polyester sheath with belt loop and Lifetime Warranty. For more information and finding a local stockist contact Gerber on 01978 264716 or visit: www.gerbergear.co.uk.