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Gerber 31-003345 Suspension NXT Multi-Tool, Silver, Medium

£21.885£43.77Clearance
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The tool’s high-quality stainless steel construction suggests it’s made to last, which could appeal to those who value longevity in their tools. Its 6.7-ounce weight implies it’s fairly lightweight, making it a good fit for those who prioritize portability. Overall, the Suspension NXT seems to be a well-rounded multi-tool, but it’s essential to weigh your specific requirements and lifestyle against its features to find if it’s the right match for you. The knife is a combo blade with half straight and half serrated edges. Some people love combo blades as it gives them the option to use the part of the blade that best suits the cutting job without using the real estate 2 separate blades would take. I can take or leave a combo blade. Serrated blades are good at cutting things like rope because the serrations grip the rope surface allowing it to cut more easily. That’s true but a straight blade will do the same thing as a serrated knife if it’s sharp because it’s sharp enough to “grip” the rope. In conclusion, the Gerber Suspension NXT seems to be a well-rounded multi-tool designed for those who appreciate functionality, durability, and convenience. However, it’s always important to carefully consider your personal needs when choosing a tool like this. After all, it’s the tasks you frequently encounter that will determine whether this tool is the right fit for you. Gerber Suspension NXT Multi-Tool Review: Who isn’t it for?

Now, who would find this useful? Given its multifunctional nature and compact size, I’d say it can cater to a wide audience. The ‘multisport’ label suggests it’s made for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy camping, hiking, or fishing. The wire stripper, Phillips and standard screwdrivers, and pliers all seem handy for dealing with unexpected equipment issues or setting up camp. If you compare the NXT to Gerber’s own Center-Drive (my review here), you can see the differences in the size of the tools like the pliers and the knife which are a size or two up from the NXT. That tells you it is more a medium-duty multi-tool rather than heavy-duty. One thing that makes the Gerber Suspension NXT Multi-Tool so perfect for everyday use is its 15 tool functions. For example, the spring-loaded needle-nose pliers have a straight section and a bolt/nut gripper section. You also get wire cutters and wire strippers to facilitate that well-rounded, everyday use feel.

Value

Something that isn’t small is the Philips screwdriver which has a full-size head and a reasonably long shaft. Thumbs up for the Philips. The other tools are standard and commonly used tools for a multi-tool of this size.

What's nice to see is that all the tools are well constructed and designed, meaning that they are adequately built, so you shouldn't have any trouble using them. Not every multi-tool, even those from our favorite brands, are winners. These are models we've tried and don't like as much (or at all). Save your money and skip 'em. Truss and Suspension serrated blades. The Truss changes the blade shape and adds a bit of length. A much welcomed change!What tools can you expect to find on a standard multitool? The list can vary widely, but it should include a screwdriver (with a Phillips and flat-head driver, at least), pliers, scissors and possibly a knife or two. Most will also have a bottle opener or something you can use as one. It’s a good bet that this tool is the one that will see the most actual use among weekend warriors. One, the NXT is at the lighter end of the weight range for a full-size multi-tool. In changing the focus of the Suspension from commercial users to more enthusiast users for the NXT, Gerber has reduced the weight from 9 oz (255 gms) down to 6.7 oz (190 gms). That’s 25% less weight to carry around. With this multi-tool, you'll also get several secondary tools, such as a Phillips head screwdriver with a fully formed "3D" head, other small, medium, and large flathead screwdrivers, an awl, a multi-sided file, a can opener, a ruler, and the ever-useful bottle opener. Lastly, let’s talk about the tech-oriented people, those who mostly deal with computers and electronics. This multi-tool doesn’t appear to have any specialized tools for tech tasks. There is no micro screwdriver for opening electronics or a SIM card tool, for instance. If you’re mostly dealing with tech-related tasks, there are other multi-tools specifically designed to cater to such needs.

Updated September 2023: We've added the Leatherman Raptor Rescue, SOG Parashears, and Leatherman Style PS. We've also updated pricing and availability. The NXT has one of my favorite tools – an awl. Want to know 11 uses for an awl I bet you’ve never thought of? It doesn’t have a thread loop but I’ve never used an awl to sew anything so I wouldn’t miss it. There’s also a multi-sided file and a can opener and the ubiquitous bottle opener. That’s it for all the tools on the NXT except a ruler if you want to call that a tool. Use-ability We had no issues with the durability and construction of the Suspension. This is as much a testament to our rigorous pre-screening of products as it is to the interest these tool companies take in making solid products. Consumers of multi-tools expect rugged performance, and the manufacturers deliver it. We then select products that represent the best of the best before closely comparing them. At no point in the testing process did we experience any issues with the Suspension. We have heard reports of people having issues with the spring-loaded pliers binding up, but in our extensive use, over multiple years now, this did not bother us. Portability The smaller Suspension-NXT weighs even less, advertised at under 6.5 ounces. Its updated features are the same as the Truss’, yet it’s longer and has three more functions than the 12-function Suspension. The last primary tool that you'll need for everyday use is a pair of scissors. Although a bit on the small size, classing them as a main tool may be a bit of a stretch.So there you have it. I personally think that while the Suspension NXT is a superbly versatile tool, it’s not going to be the perfect fit for everyone – and that’s okay. It’s crucial to remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all tool out there. It’s all about finding the right tool that matches your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a very useful gift idea, look no further than the Suspension NXT Multi Tool from Gerber. Made from stainless steel and with a 25 year guarantee you can be sure of giving a hardwearing and long lasting gift. From camping and fishing to on the spot fixes the Suspension NXT gives you Gerber's renowned quality and design with their unbeatable construction. A tough, indispensable companion to any adventure and perfect gift for the outdoor enthusiast in your life.

Now, the flip side to this, as per the title of this subheading, is ‘Who isn’t the Suspension NXT for?’ After giving it some thought, I believe there are a few user profiles that might not fully benefit from what this multi-tool has to offer.

Leatherman has become shorthand for “multi-tool” for a good reason. The company's build quality is fantastic. Tools can be flipped out and retracted forcefully but smoothly, and the finishing on each mini-tool is excellent. Leatherman has many options to choose from, but the Wave Plus is easily my favorite. It has two stainless steel knives, one with a straight edge and the other serrated. The latter is good for cutting fibrous material such as rope. The 420HC steel employed has a high carbon content, so the edges won't stay sharp for long, but it's easy to sharpen 'em up again. There are 16 other tools, including a wood-and-metal file, a diamond-coated file, a saw, Phillips screwdriver bits, scissors, an 8-inch ruler, and a wire stripper, as well as a bottle and can opener. The Suspension and Truss have the exact same plier-head. But, the Truss's plier-head is more polished and seems to have better tolerances. At least, this is the case, on my example. I cannot make the claim for all Trusses. The secondary tools are headed by the Phillips head screwdriver with it’s fully formed “3D” head. That just means it’s got a head like the Phillips screwdriver you have in your toolshed rather than one of those flattened “2D” style Phillips you see on a lot of other multi-tools. The other screw management tools included are small, medium and large flathead screwdrivers. A few tools in our test are less expensive, but almost all of them compromise significantly on features and quality. The Suspension is an excellent value, in that it will last a long time and has the features that most normal users are looking for. Conclusion From its wire stripper and screwdrivers useful for unexpected equipment issues to the bottle and can opener that could be a lifesaver in a pinch, this multi-tool seems to offer a wide range of functionality. And with its lightweight yet sturdy construction, it seems to strike a commendable balance between durability and convenience.

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