Suspension NXT Multi-Tool

The Gerber Suspension NXT is a 15-tool stainless steel multi-tool with spring-loaded needlenose pliers, a 5.7 cm part-serrated blade, scissors, drivers and a wire stripper. Every tool sits on the outside of the handles and locks open. It measures 10.8 cm closed and weighs 189.9 g, and a pocket clip carries it in a pocket or on a belt.

What it actually does

The Suspension NXT is a pliers-based multi-tool for the jobs that turn up between the shed and the campsite: tightening a loose screw on a camp chair, pulling a fishing hook, cutting cord, stripping a wire on a solar panel lead or opening a tin of beans. The full set of 15:

• Spring-loaded needlenose pliers, standard pliers and wire cutters
• 5.7 cm plain and serrated combination blade
• Scissors
• Formed #2 cross driver, plus large, medium and small flathead drivers
• Awl, file and wire stripper
• Can opener and bottle opener
• Ruler on the reverse of the handle

The spring in the pliers opens the jaws for you after each squeeze, which is easier on the hand when you are working through a fiddly job. There is no saw or bit holder; the NXT keeps to fixed drivers and the tools above to stay slim.

Size, weight and carrying

Closed, the Suspension NXT is 10.8 cm long; opened out to the pliers it is 15.9 cm. It weighs 189.9 g. The pocket clip lets it ride deep in a trouser pocket or clip to a belt, and there is a lanyard point if you want to tether it in a boat or up a ladder. Because the tools sit on the outside of the butterfly handles, you can reach the blade or a driver without opening the pliers.

Build quality

The Suspension NXT is made from stainless steel, with outboard tools that lock open so a blade or driver cannot fold back onto your fingers under load. It carries Gerber's 25 year limited warranty in Australia.

Looking after it

Stainless steel resists rust but is not immune to it. After a dusty, wet or salty day, rinse the tool in fresh water, brush grit out of the joints, dry it and put a drop of light oil on the pivots. Do that after every saltwater trip and it will keep working smoothly.