Gerber Legendary Blades has long been one of the top manufacturers of multi-tools. The pliers knives they produce boast more features than most of the current crop of these tools on the market. In addition, they are easy and comfortable to use. In late 1997, Gerber released another useful multi-tool dubbed the Multi-Lite. This innovative piece elevates the concept of multi-tools to a whole new level: compact. Read on to see what this new Gerber offering is all about!

FOLD OUT TOOLS

Though there are no pliers in this package but there is a multitude of fold out tools. These tools are very similar to the ones found on the Multi-Lock Scout: can opener, awl/reamer, Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, serrated sheepsfoot and plain edge blades, and a pair of Fiskars (r)-made scissors. All the tools share the same quality of manufacture as those on the Multi-Locks too. Every tool locks in the open position for user safety (sharing the same locking system as the Multi-Lock pliers knives) and are encased in a rugged stainless steel body, topped off with a hinged polycarbonate lid. Built into one end of this lid is an LED flashlight, activated by a pushbutton switch mounted on the lid's top. When you want to use one of the Multi-Lite's tools, just open the lid, pull out the desired tool, and close it. To unlock the tool, pull back on the notched sliding lock release at the bottom of the tool's steel body and then close the tool. The tool layout is designed in such a way to promote easy access in the closed position, and lockup is solid. One of the highlights of the Multi-Lite is the pair of Fiskars(r) scissors. They are very well made and are easy to operate thanks to the spring assist action.

ANALYSIS

The Multi-Lite is the perfect tool to have in your tackle box, tool box, glove compartment, or (ladies, listen up!) purse. Gerber believes that the Multi-Lite will be a success with the ladies, since the Multi-Lite really does not have the appearance of a tool per se (in comparison with pliers knives). Anyone who needs simple tools, the Multi-Lite would make a good choice.

The built-in LED flashlight can come through in a pinch. The light beam is amber color, and can light your way around a dark room (albeit dimly). One particular use for this light is as a distress signal, something that can be seen from quite a distance. And since the light is activated only when the button is depressed, it may be beneficial to learn how to flash "S.O.S" in Morse code, too! Another feature of the lid is that it can detach from the main body of the tool, freeing the LED light to be used on its own. Gerber says the battery as well as the LED light can be easily replaced when necessary.

One observation that I made while examining the Multi-Lite is in regards to the Phillips screwdriver. Noticing this is the exact same driver that is used with the Multi-Lock and Multi-Plier tool kits, (the ones with the coupler and the 1/4" drive screwdriver bits), I retrieved my Multi-Lock tool kit's coupler. I pulled out the Multi-Lite's Phillips driver and proceeded to slide the coupler on. It has an exact fit! So, those of you with these tool kits can increase the Multi-Lite's versatility by using the coupler and any 1/4" drive bits. Very handy indeed!

The only qualm I have with the Multi-Lite is with the Fiskars(r) scissors. Some users (especially those with big fingers) may have a difficult time at pulling the scissors out, due to the lack of a nail nick on the appropriate side of this tool. There is a nail nick, however, on the side facing the main drop point blade. The reason for this is that these scissors are also used on Gerber's Multi-Lock Scout in which the nail nick is easily accessed. My suggestion for Gerber is to cut a nail nick on the side opposite the present location.

As stated earlier, the Multi-Lite is easily carried in a tool box, tackle box, glove compartment, or purse. Because the boxy overall shape of the tool, some users may discover that the Multi-Lite could be a little too uncomfortable for a regular, daily pocket carry tool.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the Gerber Multi-Lite is a sturdy, use-anywhere tool. Since it shares the same fold-out tools as the tried-and-true Multi-Lock pliers, they will stand up to years of hard use. Anyone can benefit from its numerous features and ease of portability: the Multi-Lite makes a great gift idea for graduation, Father's Day, Mother's Day, Christmas, or any occasion. Be sure to place your order for a Multi-Lite with the KnifeCenter today!