Gerber has a new flagship multi-tool, the Dual-Force, and from the looks of it, this could be the brand’s best or worst multi-tool ever.
The Gerber Dual-Force multi-tool features slip-joint pliers, which is an interesting choice. Generally speaking, slip-joint pliers are very polarizing, as they are ubiquitous and commonly loathed.
Gerber says that the jaws on the Dual-Force multi-tool “operate like a real tool,” with a 2-position slip-lock design.
This allows you to set the pliers to grasp narrower or wider parts and fasteners with a more comfortable grip.
Gerber says that this gives you “2X the grip force.”
Where does the 2X claim come from? Gerber says that when gripping a 3/4″ fastener with the Dual-Force pliers, the handspan is 47% narrower than competing tools, allowing for optimal gripping power and 2x the force.
Gerber says that the jaws are 2X stronger. Then, in their promo video (embedded below), they say the jaws are 3X stronger due to their layered construction.
The pliers also feature deep teeth for “unparalleled control.”
The Gerber Dual-Force is very pliers-centric, but that’s not all it offers.
Gerber Dual-Force Tools & Functions
Officially, Gerber says that the Dual-Force multi-tool features 12 different tools and functions.
- Blunt nose pliers
- Small fastener pliers
- Large fastener pliers
- Slip joint pliers jaw
- Wire cutter
- Wire stripper
- 3.25″ plain edge knife blade
- 3.35″ center-drive screwdriver
- Saw
- Fine/coarse file
- Chisel edge
- Screwdriver bits with on-tool storage
- Phillips #1 & #2 screwdriver bits
- Medium slotted bit
- 8in/20cm ruler
So, you get the pliers, a knife, a saw, a screwdriver bit holder, on-board storage for 2 additional bits (3 total), and a file with chisel tip.
All of the main functions are outside-accessible and with a locking feature.
The Dual-Force also features Gerber’s Center-Drive-type center-axis bit screwdriver. This lets you rotate the handle in a similar fashion as a traditional screwdriver.
Gerber Dual-Force Specs
The Gerber Dual-Force appears to be a little longer than other brands’ standard multi-tools, with a closed length of 4.65″.
- 4.65″ closed length
- 0.84″ width
- Weighs 12 oz
Gerber does not provide the overall length.
The Gerber Dual-Force, model 30-001721, comes with a nylon sheath that can be belt-carried vertically or horizontally.
Pricing & Availability
Price: $110
The Dual-Force is not in stock at Gerber’s store, and it is not yet available at Gerber tool dealers.
Gerber’s store pricing tends to be a little higher than dealer pricing, and so we should expect to see slightly lower street pricing.
Discussion
Gerber says:
Leave the toolbox at home, because the Dual-Force’s revolutionary design offers proven and uncompromising performance when taken to task against the competition.
Gerber did it with the Center-Drive, and now we’re continuing to expand the horizons of what a multi-tool can do.
The slip-joint pliers design is what can make the Dual-Force the best or worst multi-tool, in my opinion. Slip-joint pliers are indeed proven – they’ve proven to be a source of frustration for nearly every tool user.
While it can be convenient for pliers to have two opening width settings, slip-joint pliers are usually too loose to hold their setting, or too stiff to adjust with ease.
Read more about slip-joint pliers:
Gerber also says:
For tough jobs, it’s often easier to head back to the toolbox for a proper set of pliers – until now. From predictable day-to-day tasks to the thrilling unknowns of the backcountry roads, the Dual-Force is the replacement for those old dedicated pliers of yours, and then some.
Can the Dual-Force replace your dedicated pliers?
Is it worth getting the Dual-Force, or would something like the Knipex Cobra XS complement a multi-tool with traditional combination long nose-style pliers?
I want to be impressed with Gerber has done here, but I just don’t know.
On the other hand, Gerber’s Center Drive screwdriver tool is a very useful design. That adds to the potential appeal of the Dual-Force, but it makes me optimistic that Gerber knows what they’re doing.
What do you think about the Dual-Force multi-tool? Is this as revolutionary of an EDC (everyday carry) multi-tool as Gerber makes it out to be?
