Tool Box Buzz

Gerber Crucial Multi-Tool w/ Strap Cutter Review

Gerber Crucial Multi Tool

5/5

Manufacturer: Gerber
Model number: Crucial Multi Tool
Price: $53.00
Weight: 5.0 oz

When I was 12 years old I got my first Swiss Army knife and its been down hill ever since, I love knives and multi tools.

The folks at Gerber recently sent me their Crucial Multi-Tool w/ Strap Cutter to review and evaluate. A multi-tool has always been something I’ve owned but seldom carried it due to the bulkiness. Tough to keep in your pocket and usually required some sort of pouch for your belt, I didn’t want the hassle of digging into my pocket for it or lifting up my shirt to access a pouch.

Gerber really took a look at these 2 issues, size and storage and created the Crucial which is a  small, compact, multi-tool that comes with a tough, tight, belt clip;  all great reasons to review and evaluate the Crucial.

Crucial Specifications:

• Needle-nose Pliers
• Half Fine / Half Serrated Blade
• Strap Cutter
• Philips and Slotted Screwdrivers
• V-Cut Wire Cutter
• Overall Length: 5.5 inches
• Closed Length: 3.6 inches
• Weight: 5.0 oz

First Impression:

When the Crucial arrived from Gerber, it came out of the package with probably one of the sharpest blades I have seen to date. I wish I could have used to cut open the thick plastic it was in! I like how the blade is half fine finish and the other half is serrated.

The compact size was definitely another great first impression to me. This multi-tool is only 5-1/2″ open and closed it is just over 3-1/2″.  Majority of the multi-tools on the market are 4-1/2″ or taller when closed and upwards of 7-1/2″ open.

Why Multi-Tool?

There are several multi-tools on the market that have far more accessories than the Crucial but I would challenge you to find one that has the most common accessories like the Crucial with it’s compact size.

Multi-tools are exceptionally useful to those in public safety professions.  Screwdrivers, pliers, seat belt cutters and a knife is just too much gear to carrying around especially with all the equipment they currently have with them.  Having all these options in one small multi-tool that can securely fit in your pocket or vest provides you with the versatility you want, with out the hassle of carrying several separate tools.

Ergonomic Design

The Crucial has a unique curved ergonomic design when open. This ergonomic design allows for better gripping as well as better torque for turning applications. The liner-locking knife blade was stiff to open initially but after several times opening and closing it seemed to be more broken in and easy to deploy. I also really like the ability to use the accessories either open or close. Being able to deploy the knife with one hand allows for faster deployment than if you had to open the multi-tool to get to the knife.

Overall Impression

Gerber has designed a really nice, sleek, compact and useful multi-tool. If you are in the public safety profession, I would definitely recommend this multi-tool. It has 6 essential tools in one small 5.0 oz pocket size frame. This multi-tool is also a good option for an every day carry. Highly recommended!

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