Bear Grylls multi-tools

As I’ve tried and tested most multi-tools, I was asked to check out the two from Gerber’s Bear Grylls range. The Compact and Ultimate are without doubt familiar looking and bear a more than passing resemblance to others in Gerber’s range. Butterfly openers, with stainless steel frames and gunmetal scales they seem to be of a more solid build. Mostly it’s the cosmetics and bright orange ‘BG’ logo that attract the eye with only a few changes to the functions.

Compact

Yes they do look like previous Gerber multis and cynically you could say they are 95% recycling existing product, which is undeniably smart marketing, as Grylls is a high profile character and if you’re into him then what else would you want to use?

The Compact measures 2 ½” closed and 4 .3” open. It weighs 3oz is based around spring-action, needle nose pliers, plus wire cutters. Holding 10-tools, it feels good in the hand despite the diminutive size and is capable of undertaking small, fiddly tasks one-handed. The hard handle ridges I was initially dubious of, in use actually show their worth in the good grip offered. Functions included are a 1 ¾” fine edge drop point knife, 1 ¾” serrated edge blade, medium Phillips screwdriver, small and medium flat head screwdrivers, bottle opener, tweezers and a lanyard ring.

Ultimate

This multi has a lot to live up to, given its name, and it certainly feels purposeful. Measuring 4” closed and 1 7/8” across the widest point of its deep handles. It weighs 8.8ozs and when opened to deploy the pliers it extends to 6.3”. These are identical in build to the Compacts but far more substantial in build, length and feel. In conjunction with the big handles with their rubber gripping panels you get a ‘proper job’ feel about them. The wire cutters are backed with a wire stripper.

Closing it up reveals access to a 2” fine edge and fully serrated knife blades, 2” wood saw, Phillips screwdriver, small and medium flat head screwdriver, bottle opener, can opener, scissors and a lanyard ring. All are deployed using side thumb-assist, or lugs on the outer edge. When open they lock securely using Gerber’s patented Safe.T.Plus System. Possibly the best safety system on any multi, it mechanically locks the tools into position, with an equally fast and efficient release operation for stowage.

The Ultimate Multi-Tool boasts 12 stainless steel, weather resistant implements and comes with a mildew resistant, lightweight, Nylon sheath with belt loop and Velcro fasten over flap.

The Gerber Bear Grylls Compact Multi-Tool is priced at around £24.99 while the GBG Ultimate Multi-Tool is £49.99 For your nearest stockists contact Gerber on 01506 406277 or visit their website at www.gerbergear.com which has a country by country store locator.