- Lightweight, open frame design
- Convenient, easily accessible butterfly opening
- Saf.T.Plus locking knife and tools
- 12 tools
- Ballistic nylon sheath included
Tough, reliable, and easy to handle, the Gerber Suspension Multi-Plier is engineered to tackle jobs in just about every situation you can imagine. Featuring a sleek butterfly design, durable stainless steel construction, and Gerber's patented Saf.T.Plus component locking system, this affordable multitool packs 11 convenient tools that will quickly prove indispensable.
Strong, Innovative Open-Frame Design
Strong yet lightweight, the Suspension Multi-Plier offers the durability of stainless steel construction along with an aluminum butterfly-opening handle that's inspired by the precision engineering of Portland, Oregon's famous suspension bridges. Like those time-tested iron bridges, this tool is designed to deliver the down-and-dirty performance that you demand from your tools.
Strong yet lightweight, the Suspension Multi-Plier offers the durability of stainless steel construction along with an aluminum butterfly-opening handle that's inspired by the precision engineering of Portland, Oregon's famous suspension bridges. Like those time-tested iron bridges, this tool is designed to deliver the down-and-dirty performance that you demand from your tools.
But performance isn't everything. The tool's unique suspension-style handle sits comfortably in your hand, giving it a well-balanced feel. Compact enough to satisfy the most demanding minimalists, and cool enough for any gadget guy or girl, the Suspension Multi-Plier offers a sleek, streamlined design that will look as good as it performs.
Reliable, Easy-to-Access Tools Keep You Prepared
Whether you're at home, on the road, at a muddy jobsite, or deep in the backcountry, you can't predict what you'll be up against. The Suspension Multi-Plier is fitted with 11 tools that will give you the edge in virtually any situation.
Whether you're at home, on the road, at a muddy jobsite, or deep in the backcountry, you can't predict what you'll be up against. The Suspension Multi-Plier is fitted with 11 tools that will give you the edge in virtually any situation.
Starting with the knives, you have the choice of a straight blade for fine-tune cutting, or a serrated blade that's great for cutting rope.
This tool also includes a Phillips screwdriver along with large and medium flathead screwdrivers, as well as a dedicated wire cutter/stripper. Unlike bulky squared-off pliers on many multitools, the needle-nose pliers at the center of this tool are designed for the tightest of spots. And they're spring loaded so that they open when you release your grip, which makes working with them easy, pinch free and intuitive.
Other useful features hidden away in the handle of the Suspension include scissors, a bottle opener, a can opener, saw, an awl, and a lanyard ring.
Safe, User-Friendly Design
If you've ever had a folding knife close on your hand in the middle of making a tough cut, you'll have a special appreciation for Gerber's Saf.T.Plus system, which locks components securely in place for worry-free use.
If you've ever had a folding knife close on your hand in the middle of making a tough cut, you'll have a special appreciation for Gerber's Saf.T.Plus system, which locks components securely in place for worry-free use.
Even with this lock system, deployment is quick and easy. Gerber's user-friendly design makes it simple to access any tool that you need--just slide the lock-release button back and get set for the task at hand.
This Gerber multitool also comes with a nylon ballistic-cloth sheath so that you can keep it protected from the elements when it's not in use.
If you're looking for even more versatility, Gerber offers an add-on tool kit that contains an adapter, three different sizes of flathead bits, cross point bits, and hex head bits for increased functionality. Also available are several a convenient sharpening systems that can help you keep the blades on your multitool in top condition without the hassle of using a whetstone or a round file, including the DF6 Compact Sharpener and the DF8 Sharpener, which uses unique diamond fingers to acheive a perfect 30 degree angle every time you sharpen a blade (tool kit and sharpeners not included).
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Gerber's History of Ingenuity
Savvy. Moxie. Craftsmanship. Attention to detail. These are just a few of the company traits that contributed to Gerber's emergence as a world leader in outdoor gear. Joseph Gerber started Portland, Oregon's Gerber Advertising back in 1910, and one Christmas, he hired a local knife-maker to craft 25 sets of kitchen cutlery as client gifts. The knives were so popular, Mr. Gerber ultimately left his agency to launch Gerber Legendary Blades in 1939.
Savvy. Moxie. Craftsmanship. Attention to detail. These are just a few of the company traits that contributed to Gerber's emergence as a world leader in outdoor gear. Joseph Gerber started Portland, Oregon's Gerber Advertising back in 1910, and one Christmas, he hired a local knife-maker to craft 25 sets of kitchen cutlery as client gifts. The knives were so popular, Mr. Gerber ultimately left his agency to launch Gerber Legendary Blades in 1939.
For more than half a century, Gerber Legendary Blades has been helping people fend for themselves. Gerber designs popular, dependable tools and knives along with other outdoor gear that helps users accomplish whatever tasks they may be faced with, promoting the lost art of self-reliance.
What's in the Box
Suspension multitool and nylon sheath.
Suspension multitool and nylon sheath.
By John Williamson
Have owned a few multi-tools from Leatherman and Gerber over the years. Both brands have proven to make good products with a lot of thought behind them, and this Gerber Suspension Butterfly Opening Multi-Plier is no exception. My chief complaint with the early models from both companies is that the handles could be real finger pinchers if they weren't used carefully. Thankfully that problem has been eliminated with this model, and because of its butterfly design, its impossible to pinch your fingers when using the pliers. I'm a computer geek, professionally and often as a leisure activity, and don't need to deal with extraneous problems with tools that I'm using when trying to get a job done.
Speaking of the handles, the product specs here state that this multi-tool is equipped with "an aluminum butterfly-opening handle that's inspired by the precision engineering of Portland, Oregon's famous suspension bridges." OK, that explains the good looking design, but the handles didn't feel like aluminum. A magnet won't stick to aluminum, but it does sticks to the handles, which means that they are forged from steel, and not aluminum or zinc. Checking with Gerber, I found that the handle material is stainless steel, and the reason for the titanium gray color is that they're plated with super-hard titanium nitride, as indicated on the original package, which makes them for scratch and wear resistant. (Note: please see my update at the bottom of this review.)
Looking at the handles, one can see that they're also marked with small icons of whichever tool lies directly under that side. A quick glance at the tool icon and you'll know which one it is, without having to fiddle around folding each tool out to find the one you need.
The main component within the handles is the needle-nose pliers. These are accessed by folding back the handles, in butterfly fashion, to expose the tool. The needle-nose pliers are solid, and forged from stainless steel, and one immediately notices that they're spring-loaded for easy single hand operation. They have a slim profile along with excellent gripping jaws. Must note here that these are among the best needle-nose pliers that I've found, and they have a wire cutter near the pivot joint. Speaking again as a computer geek, they're top-notch for getting into tight places without disturbing surrounding components.
The handles to this multi-tool contain four tools each. Encased within one handle is a fine edge knife blade, a straight flatblade screwdriver, a flat Phillips crosspoint screwdriver, and a saw. The other handle encloses a serrated edge knife, a can and bottle opener, a small flatblade screwdriver, a swing-out lanyard hole, and some very functional scissors.
Gerber started off as a company that became famous for making fine cutlery, and the knife blades show this heritage. They stay sharp for a long time without a lot of maintenance, though I personally find the blades to be a bit short. Gerber was purchased by Fiskars a few years ago, and the nicely designed spring-loaded scissors seem to have the influence of that company. The can and bottle opener functions as it should. The screwdriver blades are better than many previous Gerber multi-tools in that they aren't so stubby. All three are long enough to outreach the tools on the current Leatherman products, adding to their functionality.
Should note here that all of the blades and tools in this Gerber Suspension lock in place when they are swung out. This is a safety feature that should be incorporated into all multi-tools, and one that I appreciate as a user who has had a blade fold back onto a finger on more than one occasion in the past. The lock releases are located on each side of the handles, and work easily. See the customer images for more details.
The ergonomics of this Gerber Suspension are excellent if you have medium or large hands, but if your hands are small, you may wish to look elsewhere. It's also a bit large to carry in ones pocket, but unlike many competing products, this one comes with well-crafted lined sheath that's made of black nylon ballistic cloth. It has a Velcro closure, and will fit in a belt in the standard vertical position. As a nice touch, it also has additional loops for those who want to carry it horizontally.
Pros:
* Excellent spring loaded pliers, some of the best around!
* Titanium nitride coating on the handles for wear resistance.
* The extra length of the screwdrivers make them more useful.
* All tools and blades lock safely into place during use.
* It comes with an excellent ballistic cloth sheath.
Cons:
* The knife blades are quite short, surprising for Gerber.
* Not so good for those with small hands.
Must say that the clamshell packaging a nuisance to open. Since almost all multi-tools seemed to be packed this way, I can't downrate this product, but one would hope that Gerber (and Leatherman) might take the hint from irritated consumers and alter their packaging to some degree. Enough said on that.
There are a lot of good things that can be said about the Gerber Suspension, but one thing that's often overlooked is that one does not have to deal with the blades or tools clumping together when they are accessed. There are little tabbed washers between each, so you'll never have two tools swing out at the same time. It just doesn't happen.
Some have noted that the tools seem a bit stiff, but that is something that appears not to be brand specific. This can be easily cured with a couple of drops of WD-40 Lubricant in the joints of each tool, along with a couple of minutes worth of movement, and then they'll be quite smooth.
If you're looking for even more versatility, Gerber offers a very handy Tool Kit For Suspension and others (see reviews). This very functional accessory contains an adapter, three different sizes of flathead bits, cross point bits, and hex head bits for increased functionality.
I would have to say that the Suspension is easily a best buy among general multi-tools. Others worth consideration would be this Leatherman Kick Multi-tool with Micra, a true dynamic-duo combo pack that contains both the Kick and the Micra multi-tools. The Kick also seems to be perfect for medium or smaller hands, though it's junky 'faux-leather' sheath should be replaced. I've owned a small Micra for many years, and it's always performed as expected.
Another small personal favorite is the Gerber Clutch Mini Pliers Tool, which packs six stainless steel tools between its handles. This little multi-tool sees almost daily use, and the needle nose pliers are small enough to be exceptionally handy.
I like the Gerber Suspension multi-tool because it's uncomplicated and very practical, and because the designers didn't try to fit in so many extraneous features that would simply make this multi-tool clumsy and difficult to use. Compared to other higher priced offerings from Gerber, Leatherman and Victorinox, this might have a 4-star competitive rating, but when price is factored in, it's a true 5-star product, and a bargain at that.
UPDATE 1/24/2009: Since I posted this review, there have been questions regarding the handle material. I've personally seen no evidence of any pitting on the titanium gray finish on mine, and they are used almost daily for one reason or other. The Gerber Website still says "Handle Material Stainless Steel", but in my experience, stainless steel handles would have to be forged, and wouldn't crack.
I'm still quite happy with mine.
Speaking of the handles, the product specs here state that this multi-tool is equipped with "an aluminum butterfly-opening handle that's inspired by the precision engineering of Portland, Oregon's famous suspension bridges." OK, that explains the good looking design, but the handles didn't feel like aluminum. A magnet won't stick to aluminum, but it does sticks to the handles, which means that they are forged from steel, and not aluminum or zinc. Checking with Gerber, I found that the handle material is stainless steel, and the reason for the titanium gray color is that they're plated with super-hard titanium nitride, as indicated on the original package, which makes them for scratch and wear resistant. (Note: please see my update at the bottom of this review.)
Looking at the handles, one can see that they're also marked with small icons of whichever tool lies directly under that side. A quick glance at the tool icon and you'll know which one it is, without having to fiddle around folding each tool out to find the one you need.
The main component within the handles is the needle-nose pliers. These are accessed by folding back the handles, in butterfly fashion, to expose the tool. The needle-nose pliers are solid, and forged from stainless steel, and one immediately notices that they're spring-loaded for easy single hand operation. They have a slim profile along with excellent gripping jaws. Must note here that these are among the best needle-nose pliers that I've found, and they have a wire cutter near the pivot joint. Speaking again as a computer geek, they're top-notch for getting into tight places without disturbing surrounding components.
The handles to this multi-tool contain four tools each. Encased within one handle is a fine edge knife blade, a straight flatblade screwdriver, a flat Phillips crosspoint screwdriver, and a saw. The other handle encloses a serrated edge knife, a can and bottle opener, a small flatblade screwdriver, a swing-out lanyard hole, and some very functional scissors.
Gerber started off as a company that became famous for making fine cutlery, and the knife blades show this heritage. They stay sharp for a long time without a lot of maintenance, though I personally find the blades to be a bit short. Gerber was purchased by Fiskars a few years ago, and the nicely designed spring-loaded scissors seem to have the influence of that company. The can and bottle opener functions as it should. The screwdriver blades are better than many previous Gerber multi-tools in that they aren't so stubby. All three are long enough to outreach the tools on the current Leatherman products, adding to their functionality.
Should note here that all of the blades and tools in this Gerber Suspension lock in place when they are swung out. This is a safety feature that should be incorporated into all multi-tools, and one that I appreciate as a user who has had a blade fold back onto a finger on more than one occasion in the past. The lock releases are located on each side of the handles, and work easily. See the customer images for more details.
The ergonomics of this Gerber Suspension are excellent if you have medium or large hands, but if your hands are small, you may wish to look elsewhere. It's also a bit large to carry in ones pocket, but unlike many competing products, this one comes with well-crafted lined sheath that's made of black nylon ballistic cloth. It has a Velcro closure, and will fit in a belt in the standard vertical position. As a nice touch, it also has additional loops for those who want to carry it horizontally.
Pros:
* Excellent spring loaded pliers, some of the best around!
* Titanium nitride coating on the handles for wear resistance.
* The extra length of the screwdrivers make them more useful.
* All tools and blades lock safely into place during use.
* It comes with an excellent ballistic cloth sheath.
Cons:
* The knife blades are quite short, surprising for Gerber.
* Not so good for those with small hands.
Must say that the clamshell packaging a nuisance to open. Since almost all multi-tools seemed to be packed this way, I can't downrate this product, but one would hope that Gerber (and Leatherman) might take the hint from irritated consumers and alter their packaging to some degree. Enough said on that.
There are a lot of good things that can be said about the Gerber Suspension, but one thing that's often overlooked is that one does not have to deal with the blades or tools clumping together when they are accessed. There are little tabbed washers between each, so you'll never have two tools swing out at the same time. It just doesn't happen.
Some have noted that the tools seem a bit stiff, but that is something that appears not to be brand specific. This can be easily cured with a couple of drops of WD-40 Lubricant in the joints of each tool, along with a couple of minutes worth of movement, and then they'll be quite smooth.
If you're looking for even more versatility, Gerber offers a very handy Tool Kit For Suspension and others (see reviews). This very functional accessory contains an adapter, three different sizes of flathead bits, cross point bits, and hex head bits for increased functionality.
I would have to say that the Suspension is easily a best buy among general multi-tools. Others worth consideration would be this Leatherman Kick Multi-tool with Micra, a true dynamic-duo combo pack that contains both the Kick and the Micra multi-tools. The Kick also seems to be perfect for medium or smaller hands, though it's junky 'faux-leather' sheath should be replaced. I've owned a small Micra for many years, and it's always performed as expected.
Another small personal favorite is the Gerber Clutch Mini Pliers Tool, which packs six stainless steel tools between its handles. This little multi-tool sees almost daily use, and the needle nose pliers are small enough to be exceptionally handy.
I like the Gerber Suspension multi-tool because it's uncomplicated and very practical, and because the designers didn't try to fit in so many extraneous features that would simply make this multi-tool clumsy and difficult to use. Compared to other higher priced offerings from Gerber, Leatherman and Victorinox, this might have a 4-star competitive rating, but when price is factored in, it's a true 5-star product, and a bargain at that.
UPDATE 1/24/2009: Since I posted this review, there have been questions regarding the handle material. I've personally seen no evidence of any pitting on the titanium gray finish on mine, and they are used almost daily for one reason or other. The Gerber Website still says "Handle Material Stainless Steel", but in my experience, stainless steel handles would have to be forged, and wouldn't crack.
I'm still quite happy with mine.
By Shane Staunton
I was looking to replace my Leatherman Wave multi-plier when I happened upon this Gerber item.
There are several superior design features for this Gerber over the Wave, including:
1. The grips don't pinch when you close the plier jaws.
2. The frame is tougher, with superior rigidity.
3. ALL the tools lock in their operating positions, not just the blades.
4. The shears don't jam closed.
5. The tool is spring-loaded to open the plier jaws, a very handy & time-saving convenience.
6. Excellent value for money while still covering the essential range of tools that are needed for general work.
My main use for multi-pliers is for ranching/farming and they get used every day for jobs that range from easy to tough, and on occasion, to abuse (it's always on hand when there's no time to get the ideal tool). And it's still real handy for fixing things on-the-fly at home. It's the one item I always carry until I hit the shower.
There are several superior design features for this Gerber over the Wave, including:
1. The grips don't pinch when you close the plier jaws.
2. The frame is tougher, with superior rigidity.
3. ALL the tools lock in their operating positions, not just the blades.
4. The shears don't jam closed.
5. The tool is spring-loaded to open the plier jaws, a very handy & time-saving convenience.
6. Excellent value for money while still covering the essential range of tools that are needed for general work.
My main use for multi-pliers is for ranching/farming and they get used every day for jobs that range from easy to tough, and on occasion, to abuse (it's always on hand when there's no time to get the ideal tool). And it's still real handy for fixing things on-the-fly at home. It's the one item I always carry until I hit the shower.
By ruski3:16
Great heavy duty high quality high performance multi necessary efficient compact piece of must have equipment - cheaper and better made than Leatherman of comparable price range - buy 2 - one for work , one for your car - best choice
By Dr. Oceanfront
I love this tool and cannot believe I purchased it for about $25, including the sheaf. What a deal!
I really like the gunmetal color and it is made of a high quality stainless steel. It is spring loaded so you have way one handed operation. The unit has a really nice needle nose pliers, that you access by folding the handles back, which will expose all the tools. It also has a wire cuter on it...pretty neat!
Besides the needle nose pliers and wire cutters, encased in the handles are:
Side one:
1. Fine edge serrated blade
2. Straight flathead screwdriver
3. Flat Phillips crosspoint screw driver
4. Saw
Side 2:
1. Serrated edge knife
2. Can/bottle opener
3. Flatbed screw driver
4. Lanyard hole
5. A really good pair of scissors
Hum, I feel like I am forgetting something. Just know, at this price, it is a nice little set!
If my review helped you, please click on "Helpful" below. Thank you for reading my review. :)
I really like the gunmetal color and it is made of a high quality stainless steel. It is spring loaded so you have way one handed operation. The unit has a really nice needle nose pliers, that you access by folding the handles back, which will expose all the tools. It also has a wire cuter on it...pretty neat!
Besides the needle nose pliers and wire cutters, encased in the handles are:
Side one:
1. Fine edge serrated blade
2. Straight flathead screwdriver
3. Flat Phillips crosspoint screw driver
4. Saw
Side 2:
1. Serrated edge knife
2. Can/bottle opener
3. Flatbed screw driver
4. Lanyard hole
5. A really good pair of scissors
Hum, I feel like I am forgetting something. Just know, at this price, it is a nice little set!
If my review helped you, please click on "Helpful" below. Thank you for reading my review. :)
By Alex L
I just have to say that I really dig this multitool! I also have a Leatherman Wingman, but for some reason I really like the Gerber Suspension better! They're both similarly priced but have slightly different tools. I like the feel of the Gerber better, and I appreciate the locking system on the Gerber. All of the tools lock into place and unlock easily with the push of a button. All of the tools do not lock on the Wingman, only some. There are a few cons with this Gerber. The absence of a file is one. Another is that the saw is too thick to be of much use. Still, I appreciate that it is there. Also, the phillips head is fairly useless. It's like it's been squashed flat. It might be helpful in a pinch, but if you really need to do some serious phillips head screwing, you might seek out an actual phillips head screwdriver. I think the Gerber Suspension is a very high value tool for anyone to have. It's a full size multitool and very sturdy. Can it compete with a Leatherman Wave or Surge? No, definitely not. For those on a budget or those seeking a second or third multitool for a bug out bag or car glove compartment, then the Gerber Suspension is for you! I'm quite happy with it. It actually exceeds my expectations, and the price is right. Highly recommended!
By Snake
I can't even count how many times I've used this thing in a pinch. It is has great construction and feels very sturdy in your hands. All of the blades are very sharp and the tools come in handy more times than you would think. It's great for any bug out bag.
By Derek Nash
Best mutitool I have ever owned.. this is my second one. Bought the first one about 3 years ago and used it daily on everything..literally. Wiring trailers, around the house fixes, opening freight boxes, fixing leaky pipes, pulling fuses, opening beers, tightening and removing screws... this does it all. Compact, easy to carry, great belt holster pouch, you will wonder how you ever got around without it. Only bought this one because my first one was stolen. Highly recommended!
By 1LouderTech
Such a great tool! The knives are sharp and the pliers are strong. I love the spring-loaded pliers. I been using a Gerber Mini-Suspension for a while now and just felt it was time for an upgrade. After looking at MANY multi-tools, from MANY brands, I kept coming back to Gerber. Being happy with my mini-suspension, I knew Gerber wouldn't dissapoint. I'm very happy with my purchase.
The one thing I will likely have to do is upgrade the pouch. It's already showing some stretching in the belt loop and some of the stitching has come undone on the edge. I didn't ding the rating, because I care more about the tool. The pouch is serviceable, but not fantastic.
The one thing I will likely have to do is upgrade the pouch. It's already showing some stretching in the belt loop and some of the stitching has come undone on the edge. I didn't ding the rating, because I care more about the tool. The pouch is serviceable, but not fantastic.
By brianincincinnati
I carry this multi-tool on me everyday on my pack. i actually just used the pliers on a dog cage a few moments ago as a matter of fact. Its highly affordable and very durable. I also use leatherman just as much and i cant believe im saying this, but this matches up. No loose links, no sticking tools and shipped very clean and not oily like some companies like to do with fear of their cheap metals rusting up. I highly recommend this and would recommend any of their multi-tools!
By Inspector Nash Bridges
Not exactly compact in your hand when it's folded. The unit is quite bulky in the closed position. This could present present a problem when working within confined spaces. Go ahead, try opening one of the cutting blades, and use it as you would with any knife. Can you pinch grip the blade? For me, it felt comfortable. But the heft and balance is not for everyone. When in the open position, the pliers feel good. The sheath is MOLLE compatible.
There is a lot of discussion in regards to price point and sourcing. Price is what you can find and/or negotiate. Maybe you can find a dusty one in a family hardware store, and convince the proprietor to let you have it for less since it has sat on his shelf for so long that it has collected dust. Or you can find a good price online. I paid $17 here on Amazon.com, in Aug 2016. Is that good or bad? My box indicated Made In China. But that did not deter me, or cause me to send it back. My box also indicated that there was a warranty. Frankly, I can recall the original Leatherman PST being worth roughly a day's wages in 1980's dollars. So this tool is a bargain. I've broken many tools, but never a Leatherman or Gerber. The weakest multi-plier I've used is the $4 Wally World special. And even that is worth the money, because I've gotten $4 worth of use out of it before it broke. If you break it, send it back. But you're more likely to lose it.
There is a lot of discussion in regards to price point and sourcing. Price is what you can find and/or negotiate. Maybe you can find a dusty one in a family hardware store, and convince the proprietor to let you have it for less since it has sat on his shelf for so long that it has collected dust. Or you can find a good price online. I paid $17 here on Amazon.com, in Aug 2016. Is that good or bad? My box indicated Made In China. But that did not deter me, or cause me to send it back. My box also indicated that there was a warranty. Frankly, I can recall the original Leatherman PST being worth roughly a day's wages in 1980's dollars. So this tool is a bargain. I've broken many tools, but never a Leatherman or Gerber. The weakest multi-plier I've used is the $4 Wally World special. And even that is worth the money, because I've gotten $4 worth of use out of it before it broke. If you break it, send it back. But you're more likely to lose it.
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