The Gerber Crucial was released some months after the Leatherman Skeletool (link: Leatherman Skeletool CX Carbon Fiber Handle Multitool and Knife 830950), and it fills the same niche: Compact Multi-Tool without Extras.
The Gerber Crucial has:
* Drop-point knife blade with partial serration
* Pliers with wire-cutters
* Flat-head screwdriver
* Phillips-head screwdriver
* Carabiner clip with bottle-opener function
When you compare it to the Skeletool CX, they have the same features but the important difference is ergonomics.Not only are the pliers handles shaped to your hand, they won't dig into your hand like the Skeletool handle does.
Pros:
* Carabiner bottle opener: it doesn't stick way out from your belt like a knife sheath does.The bottle opener is spot-on, works perfectly!
* Ergonomics: fits your hand
* Only the crucial components: Knife, pliers, screwdriver.I rarely need anything else from a multi-tool
* Wire cutters cut well!: SO many tools get this wrong, and I don't know why
Cons:
* Thick for the number of tools: 3-1/2" X 1-3/8" X 3/4" closed, stretches my definition of "pocket" size, you will forgive that when you use the pliers
* Gerber's Gimpy Phillips-head: perpendicular edge does not extend out as much as the other, meaning it is basically a flat-head that comes to a point.Not a deal-breaker but annoying in that you must apply more downward force
Odds 'n Ends:
* Both the screwdrivers have their own locks:Strange, but I can't fault Gerber for making things more safe.
* I took the belt-clip off because I use the carabiner, and when I went to put the clip screws back in, they cross-threaded!
* Pliers not as beefy as Leatherman Skeletool: Let's face it, if you need to turn huge bolts in a mission-critical situation, you probably shouldn't be using a multi-tool!For those incidental occasions when you need to hold a small workpiece or "coax" something open, Gerber has you covered.
* You will need to half-open the pliers handle to use the Phillips-head easily
* Unique styling and choice of colors: Follow me on this one - I know that style is not very important when it comes to tools.But in some settings, reaching for a huge knife with a tool-shed attached just to open a bottle kind of scares some people.I'm just a regular guy who likes to be prepared.
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Gerber 30-000140 Crucial Tool, GreenProduct Description: Get performance and portability with the Gerber Crucial Tool. As stylish as your favorite knife, but packed with the features you expect in a Gerber multi-tool, the Crucial Tool delivers big, full-function components--a full-sized knife, V-cut wire cutters, two screwdrivers, and a bottle opener--all in a small package. This handy multi-tool carries like a pocketknife and weighs a mere five ounces, so you can take it anywhere.
The Gerber Crucial Tool
At a Glance:- Pocket knife with wire cutters, bottle opener, and more
- Compact size and convenient carrying clip
- All components safely lock into place
- Lifetime Limited Warranty
Convenient carrying clip ensures you'll benefit from the tool's many functions, wherever you go. View larger.
4" long when closed; fits comfortably
in your pocket. View larger.Half-serrated/half-fine-edge
blade opens with thumb stud. Butterfly-style handles provide easy-grip control over the pliers and V-cut wire cutters. A Workshop of Tools in Your PocketA tour de force in tool design, the Crucial Tool gives you the essential components of a multi-tool in one remarkably lightweight package. This handy tool will cover all your needs, whether you're on the trail or working in the tool shed.
The Crucial Tool features a full-sized knife that opens with a thumb stud--just like a standard pocketknife. The half-serrated/half-fine-edge blade has razor-sharp cutting power and a blunt tip for prying and scraping. For safety, a liner lock keeps the blade securely in place. When the blade is extended, the handles can be folded and secured together to give you an accurate cut.
These butterfly-style handles also provide easy-grip control over the V-cutter, and their longer length provides better torque. The handles fan out for easy access to the rest of the Crucial Tool's components: the medium flat-head screwdriver, cross-head screwdriver, bottle opener, and carabiner clip.
Functions Like a Multi-Tool, Carries Like a PocketknifeWeighing only five ounces and measuring less than four inches in length when closed, the Crucial Tool is one of the most portable high-performance tools on the market. Its compact design and convenient carrying clip means you'll always have it when you need it, for slicing rope, tightening bolts, opening bottles, and more.
All Components Safely Lock into PlaceThe Crucial Tool is constructed with stainless steel liner locks that keep the components locked into place while they're in the open position. This safety feature lets you relax and focus on the task at hand without the fear of the components folding up on your fingers while cutting, twisting, prying, etc.
Stainless Steel Design Maintains Durability and AppearanceConstructed with fine stainless steel, the Crucial Tool has an appearance that matches its performance. Its sleek look and contemporary green handles aren't just for show, though. The Crucial Tool's stainless steel composition lends durability, so this tool will stand up to the elements and retain its precision and appearance for years to come.
The Crucial Tool is backed by Gerber's Limited Lifetime Warranty.
What's in the BoxGerber Crucial Tool with V-cut wire cutter, medium flat-head screwdriver, cross-head screwdriver, half-serrated/half-fine-edge knife, bottle opener, and carabiner clip.
Handles fan out for easy access to the many useful components. View larger.Buy NowGet 46% OFF
Much cheaper than a Leatherman, but much better quality than most cheapo mini tools.It's a fine choice for the price.
