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![Gerber Gear Crucial Multi-Tool - Blue w/Pocket Clip [31-002951]](https://cdn.statically.io/img/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61oGwuZUjvL._AC_UL165_SR165,165_.jpg)
I have several multi-tools, including two that cost $100-$150 with complete bit sets, both of which are beautifully made and very useful (one from each of the two well-known multi-tool manufacturers). I keep one at home and the other in the center console of my truck, and use them for many jobs.
So, why buy this Gerber Crucial? For one simple reason: At any given moment, the very best multi-tool is the one you've got in your pocket. And, because the value of these tools is their ability to always be near at hand, you may use this one more than any fancier and larger ones you may own. That's because it carries like a knife, so you just clip it to (or drop it into) your pocket when you get dressed, and you're good to go.
There are others in roughly this same size bracket, some of which I've tried and others I haven't. Compared to the SOG Reactor the Crucial is thicker when closed and feels a little more meaty in my hand, which to me is a plus. The SOG has an assisted-opening blade, but the Gerber opens one-handed just about as easily with its nicely-shaped thumb stud. The pliers on the SOG have that company's rather cool "reduction gearing" so they allow you to exert greater force, but the handle on the Crucial is shaped better and more comfortable (to me) so you might be able to do about as well without the extra mechanical advantage.
Compared to the Leatherman Rev, the form factor of the Crucial is a bit better, as you can open the knife on the Crucial one-handed, and the pliers are more comfortable to use, but they're both good tools and you'd probably be happy with either. A lot of it depends on which design you prefer, with the Gerber offering a little more stylized "butterfly" shape, while the Rev is kind of that traditional Leatherman techno-industrial look.
The knife on the Crucial comes very sharp. In the ever-popular paper cutting test the blade goes straight through like it's cutting red hot through butter, and the resulting slice is super clean. The liner lock mechanism is designed well, and provides solid lockup on the blade as well as easy release when you're done. I like the serrations because this tool doesn't have a dedicated saw, so if you need to cut rope, small branches and other plant material, the serrations are a big plus. I kind of like the blade's slightly sheepsfoot-like shape because you can still get access to a sharp edge if you need to pierce through something, such as plastic packaging, but it seems like you're less liable to accidentally stab yourself.
As far as other tools, the somewhat flattened Philips screwdriver is never going to be quite as good as the real thing, but it works on a pretty wide range of screw sizes. The carabiner is a nice touch in case you prefer to carry your Crucial on a belt loop or attach it to a backpack or the like.
The pocket clip on this tool was a very important consideration to me because that's how I wanted to carry it - and I can't stand poorly-conceived pocket clips that require you to go through unnecessary gyrations to get them to work. I have knives and multi-tools where you have to use your finger to spread or otherwise manipulate the pocket clip to get it to attach to your jeans. That's a pain and eventually causes you to quit carrying that knife or tool on a regular basis. I have others that, over time, rip up the top of your pocket because there are sharp edges in the clip or tool that drag against the fabric as you put the knife or tool in, or as you draw it out. That's unacceptable. Still others allow the tool to slide around, so you have to worry about losing it. All of these problems are completely inexcusable and could be avoided easily if the designer had simply tried actually using the clip.
That's why I like the Gerber Crucial. Using the pocket clip, it slides into and out of my pocket easily whether standing, sitting, or in any other position I've tried. The movement is smooth, and it never catches on anything so it cannot tear up your pants pockets. Yet, the clip holds the tool securely, so you don't have to fear losing it. A good working, well-designed pocket clip means I'll carry this tool.
So, if you want a multi-function tool that feels as unobtrusive as a pocketknife, here you go. It works well and it's easy to keep at your side, so it'll be there when you reach for it. That's what might make the Gerber Crucial the most useful multi-tool you've got.
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Reviews with images
can we just talk about how adorably this company packaged my Gerber multi tool
Okay, can we just talk about how adorably this company packaged my Gerber multi tool? Dangerous and adorable, that’s what I’m talking about.Shipped fast, great quality, and everything I needed right in my pocket :)
Top reviews from other countries
Terry Archer
Great Travel Accessory @PastThePotholes
Reviewed in Canada on February 8, 2018
Terry Archer
Reviewed in Canada on February 8, 2018
1) Do you own one yourself?
2) Would you buy another if it was lost or stolen?
My wife bought me the same multi-tool in 2017. Unfortunately, it was stolen while traveling in South America. Within a week, I had placed my order to replace the Crucial.
It's perfect for our needs while travelling.
Terry
@PastThePotholes
Images in this review
