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Frequently Asked Questions
The lightest one that covers the repairs you are likely to make. For most walkers that is a compact pliers tool like the Gerber Suspension NXT at 189.9 g, or a blade-free keychain tool like the Gerber Mullet at 19.8 g if you only need drivers, a pry bar and a bottle opener.
Pliers are the most useful single tool at camp: they grip a stuck pole section, pull a fish hook, bend wire and straighten pegs. The Gerber Truss, Suspension NXT and Center-Drive all have spring-loaded needlenose pliers, standard pliers and wire cutters.
Each state sets its own rules on carrying knives and bladed tools in public, so check yours. A common approach is to carry the tool packed away in your pack for camping or work, not in a pocket in town. The Gerber Mullet has no blade, for everyday carry.
Scraping the striker hard down the ferrocerium rod throws hot sparks into dry tinder, which you then build into a flame. Unlike matches, a ferro rod still sparks after a soaking; wipe it dry. The Gerber Fire Starter stores tinder inside its handle and adds an emergency whistle.
How to choose a camping multi tool
• Pliers or no pliers:How to choose a camping multi tool
• Pliers or no pliers: pliers pull hooks, bend wire, grip a stuck tent pole and straighten a bent peg. If you want them, choose a full-size tool: the Gerber Truss (17 tools, 238 g), the Suspension NXT (15 tools, 189.9 g) or the Center-Drive (269.3 g).
• Weight: a full-size pliers tool weighs 190 to 270 g. A keychain tool like the Mullet is 19.8 g.
• Blade or no blade: the Truss and Suspension NXT have 5.7 cm blades, and the Center-Drive has an 8.3 cm plain and a serrated blade. The Mullet has no blade at all, and the Prybrid-X takes standard #11 hobby blades.
• Drivers: the Center-Drive's magnetic bit driver lines up with the handle like a real screwdriver, so you can put torque on a bolt. That suits camp chairs, bike and car fixes.
• Locking tools: every tool on the Truss and Suspension NXT opens from outside the handles and locks open.
Fire and signalling
The Gerber Fire Starter is a ferrocerium rod and striker with a water-resistant tinder store in the handle and a 100 decibel whistle on the lanyard, 74 g in all. It lights a stove or fire when the matches are damp and gives you a way to call for help. Check fire danger ratings and total fire bans before you light anything outdoors.
Australian conditions
On a multi-day walk most people carry the lightest tool that covers their repairs: a keychain tool or the Suspension NXT plus a gear repair kit. Car campers, 4WD tourers and anglers get more from the Truss or Center-Drive. Carrying a blade in public is regulated by each state, so keep a bladed tool packed away until you reach camp. For riding, see bike multi-tools.
Why buy from Oz Backcountry
Free shipping Australia-wide over $150 (T&Cs apply), sent from our Helensvale warehouse on the Gold Coast. The "In stock – ships immediately" filter shows what is ready to go today.
Related: Gerber · Bike Multi-Tools · Gear Repair & Care · Camping Accessories · Head Torches · Hiking Gear