Don’t be left empty handed

Hitting the trail, conquering a mountain peak, a day at the firing range, or simply tackling backyard projects – outdoor adventures require the right tools for the job. I can tell you from experience, you don’t want to be miles from home and realize you don’t have a single tool on hand to solve a problem you’re having. Enter the multi-tool, a pocket-sized powerhouse that combines essential implements for any situation. They’re small enough, light enough, and sturdy enough to go on just about every adventure.

Today, we’re putting three titans of the multi-tool world to the test: the Leatherman Surge, the Gerber MP600, and the Gerber Center-Drive. Let’s see which one reigns supreme for your next outdoor escapade.

The Heavy-Duty Hero: Leatherman Surge

For those who demand maximum functionality, the Leatherman Surge is a beast of a multi-tool. Boasting the largest pliers and longest blades of the bunch, it’s built to tackle serious tasks. Electricians, mechanics, and DIY enthusiasts will find themselves well-equipped with features like replaceable wire cutters and a saw that’s perfect for clearing brush. Leatherman’s 25-year warranty reflects the Surge’s built-to-last quality. Whenever I look at these, I ask if they chose every tool for a reason. I asked myself, do I really need a tiny pair of scissors? But you know what? They’ve come in handy multiple times where a knife wasn’t the right tool for the job. It’s actually an excellent complement of tool choices. Leatherman is a trusted name for a reason. One thing that is noticeably unique here is that the pliers fold out rather than slide out- which I imagine provides some extra strength for tougher tasks. I really love how this particular model is so modular; because you can replace basically every part on it, you’re willing to put it to hard use. If the wire cutters get damaged, easy replacement, if the blade breaks, easy replacement. That makes really makes it a buy-it-for-life tool!

The Compact Comrade: Gerber MP600

If a lightweight, go-anywhere multi-tool is your preference, then the Gerber MP600 might be your perfect match. I got my first Gerber on second tour to Iraq. Military supervisors occasionally give them out as a reward for good performance. They’ve always been a good tool, and a little more budget friendly. I was glad this model of Gerber got rid of that removable key that locked the sliding mechanism– it always fell out and got lost. This model just has a simple slider with a button to push it back down. Gerber is one of the brands that will make their cheaper product lines overseas, but their mid-tier and upper-tier products in the USA. This American-made marvel packs 14 essential tools into a slim, pocket-friendly design. Because they use a slider you can’t really get to your tools without sliding out the pliers first, but it does keep them nicely secured. Whether you need to open a can of beans, tighten a loose screw, or cut some rope, the MP600 has you covered. Plus, its one-handed opening makes it a breeze to access tools on the fly. While the pliers aren’t quite as heavy-duty as the Surge’s, the MP600’s versatility and compact size make it a great companion for everyday adventures.

The Screwdriver Superstar: Gerber Center-Drive

For those who prioritize precise screw driving tasks, the Gerber Center-Drive steps into the spotlight. This is my favorite Gerber multi-tool I’ve ever owned. It was the first real effort to have a functional screw driver on board. All of the past ones felt like a gimmicky compromise for limited situations. This one comes with a variety of bits that tuck into the little kangaroo style pouch that comes with it. This innovative multi-tool features a unique center-axis screwdriver that delivers maximum torque for tackling even the most stubborn screws. The included bit set offers a wide range of options for various hardware, making it a dream come true for fixing bikes, tinkering with gear, or tackling electrical projects in the field. The Center-Drive also boasts a decent-sized blade and spring-loaded pliers, making it a well-rounded multi-tool for outdoor adventures. I really like that you can still access the knife on this without opening the pliers, for regular quick use. Open blade, use, put away. Limited extra steps. I also really like that when you do want one of the other tools, it has a nice chunky slider to release the tool lock. As you can see, it also has the replaceable wire cutter blades in case you chomp those down from use.

The Verdict: Choosing Your Champion

The ultimate victor depends on your specific needs. The Leatherman Surge reigns supreme for heavy-duty tasks and those who demand top-of-the-line durability. For a lightweight, go-anywhere option, the Gerber MP600 is tough to beat. And if precision screw driving is your priority, the Gerber Center-Drive stands out from the pack. I love having several, and I just try to pick the one that suits the day I’ve got planned ahead–but no matter what I don’t leave home without one oft them!

So, weigh your options, consider your next adventure, and choose the multi-tool that will become your trusted companion on the path less traveled!