Gerber is preparing for its spring '22 multitool drop. A clear highlight in the group of new offerings, the all-new Dual-Force features a folding-plier construction redesigned to deliver twice the force of the average set of multitool pliers. Meanwhile, locking outboard tools provide quick access for emergency tasks, and an extended center-axis driver gives you all the screw-loosening torque of a standalone screwdriver.
There's no shortage of multitool plier options on the market — or just in Gerber's own lineup, for that matter. With the Dual-Force, Gerber aims to create a pair that doesn't send users running and screaming back to the workshop for dedicated pliers. It's a tall order for any multitool, known for being capable of a lot of tasks but not necessarily excelling at any one of them, but Gerber tackles the challenge using a multi-part strategy.
Gerber adds in the type of dual-position slip-lock joint that you find in dedicated pliers, giving the Dual-Force jaws the ability to adjust in size around the task at hand. The jaws lose the typical long, narrow profile common on other multitool pliers, gaining a thicker, more circular design to better wrap around fasteners. The wavy layers of extra-large teeth bite into the prize, ensuring solid, no-slip grip.
The final piece of the puzzle comes at the other end of the tool, where the handles pull closer together than the butterfly-like spread on other multitool pliers. Gerber says that the handspan is 47 percent narrower than the competition, allowing for better hand grip and two times the force.
The average end user won't care much about statistics, but they'' definitely notice if the Dual-Force is as competent as advertised and able to perform tasks that leave other multitool pliers slipping and sliding.
Beyond its updated pliers, the 12-tool Dual-Force brings a series of locking outboard tools that can be quickly deployed without unfolding the pliers. The highlight of the outboard tool array is the 3.25-in (8.25-cm) center-axis driver. The funky curvature of the driver aligns it with the center of the handle so that torque and rotation transfer as fully and naturally as they would with a regular screwdriver, without any offset awkwardness. Other outboard implements include a blade, saw and fine/coarse file. A wire cutter and stripper are installed opposite the pliers, between the upper handles.
The Dual-Force measures 4.65 in (11.8 cm) long when closed and weighs 12 ounces (340 g). It comes with a fabric sheath that can be worn horizontally or vertically around the belt line.
Gerber will launch the Dual-Force in the coming weeks for a retail price of US$100. You can see it in action in the intro video below.
Source: Gerber
