Gerber Suspension NXT Multi Tool Review

A dependable multi-tool is an indispensable companion, whether you’re heading into the great outdoors, tackling tasks at home, or preparing for unexpected challenges. Compact, versatile, and ready to handle a variety of situations, a quality multi-tool is a must-have for anyone who values preparedness. Among the many options available, the Gerber Suspension NXT stands out as a budget-friendly, reliable choice. Designed for accessibility and ease of use, this multi-tool offers a robust set of features that make it a practical addition to your belt, pocket, or gear pack.

The Specs

The Gerber Suspension NXT Tool packs an impressive amount of features into a lightweight design. With 15 tools, including pliers, wire cutters, scissors, a partially serrated knife, multiple screwdrivers, a can opener, a bottle opener, a file, and more it offers plenty of function to take on a variety of tasks.

Weighing in at just 6.7 ounces, this Gerber Multi-Tool isn’t too heavy to everyday carry in a backpack or on your person. When closed, it measures 4.25 inches, making it compact enough to carry comfortably in a pocket on a daily basis. Built with stainless steel, you should have a hard time damaging it.

Its pocket-clip attachment makes it easy to keep within reach, while the spring-loaded pliers provide added convenience and ease of use for repetitive tasks. These features combine to make the Suspension NXT a reliable and accessible tool for a variety of situations.

The Most Attractive Features

The most appealing aspect of the Gerber Suspension NXT is what gives it its name, the spring-assisted pliers. Unlike traditional pliers that may stick or require extra effort to reset, these pliers snap back into position, making repetitive tasks less tiring. It took some getting used to, but I really liked the spring assist. Plus, I appreciate Gerber making the main purpose of the tool easier to use. In my mind these tools have always been pliers first and they just happened to have a few extra tools in the empty space of the handles.

The wire cutters are another standout feature. By day, I am an Electrical Engineer, so I appreciate a good set of wire cutters. These perform exceptionally well, cutting through various gauges of wire with minimal effort. Whether you’re fixing a fence, working with electronics, or tackling a DIY project, these wire cutters pass muster.

Additionally, scissors are not something that you see in most multitools. The pair on the Suspension NXT are better than you may expect them to be. They are small, but cut well although they can be a little awkward to deploy and stow away.

Lastly, something I really like about the Gerber Suspension NXT is that when you want to use one of the tools in the handle, you do not have to open up the pliers to do it. Everything is deployable and stowable from the carry position. Being able to use one of the tools without the pliers opening and closing on you, especially with the spring assistance added in there, is a big plus in my mind.

Versatility In the Field & At Home

The Gerber Suspension NXT is a good tool to have in your pocket no matter where you are. At home, the knife and scissors excel at everyday tasks. Plus the array of screwdrivers are great for finishing quick tasks that aren’t really worth getting out a drill. In the field, a good set of pliers and a solid knife are always good to have close by. The bottle opener and can opener add an extra layer of utility, especially when you’re the camp cook or tailgating.

Gerber Suspension NXT Multi-Tool: Pros & Cons

Pros:

1. Excellent Value & Affordability: The Suspension NXT provides a surprisingly comprehensive set of tools (15 in total) at a budget-friendly price point, making it accessible to a wider range of users. This is a key advantage compared to more expensive, premium multi-tools.

2. Convenient Spring-Loaded Pliers: The spring-assisted pliers are a significant improvement over traditional designs, making repetitive tasks easier and less tiring. This feature significantly enhances usability.

3. Versatile Toolset for Everyday Use: The combination of pliers, wire cutters, scissors, various screwdrivers, and other tools makes it useful for a wide range of tasks, both at home and outdoors. The inclusion of scissors is a notable feature not found in many comparable multi-tools.

Cons:

1. Not for Professional Use: While functional, the build quality and durability might not match that of professional-grade multi-tools. It’s best suited for everyday tasks and light-duty use, not heavy-duty professional work.

2. Slightly Awkward Scissors: While functional, the scissors are noted as being a little awkward to deploy and stow. This minor inconvenience might impact user experience for frequent scissor use.

3. Limited Durability (Potential): Although constructed of stainless steel, long-term durability under heavy use remains to be seen. It’s important to manage expectations regarding the tool’s lifespan for demanding applications.

Overall Impression

While the Gerber Suspension NXT ($155.00) may not rival premium multi-tools with hefty price tags, it delivers exceptional value for its cost. This is not a “super tool” designed for professional tradespeople or extreme survivalists, but rather a reliable, entry-level multi-tool perfect for everyday users. It balances practicality and affordability, making it accessible for anyone looking to add a multi-tool to their EDC. For those who need a versatile tool without breaking the bank, the Suspension NXT is an excellent choice.

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