Gerber Suspension-NXT Multitool Review

We test the sleek Black model and dive deep into whether this 15-in-1 tool deserves a spot in your pocket, replacing that bulky gear you might be carrying right now. It’s got a slimmer profile, a better tool selection, and some truly smart upgrades, making it a serious contender for the best value EDC multitool on the market.

What You’re Getting

The Gerber Suspension-NXT Multitool Black is a 15-in-1 everyday carry tool featuring an updated, slim design, spring-loaded pliers, a 5.7cm combination blade, and a deep-carry pocket clip, optimized for commuters and weekend adventurers.

Quick Specs

If you’re ready to dive into the details, here are the key specs for this product. The table below gives you a clear and quick overview of everything you need to know.

First impressions

Pulling the Gerber Suspension-NXT out of the box, the first thing I noticed was the weight. At 196 grams, it feels solid and capable, but not heavy enough to drag down your trousers or be annoying during a hike. It’s certainly slimmer than some of the older, heavier multi-tools I’ve used. I tested the Black colour, and the finish looks sharp and durable, giving it a subtle tactical edge that I really like for EDC.

The second thing that jumped out was the deep-carry pocket clip, a big win! I prefer clipping a tool securely inside my pocket rather than having it flop around on a belt. This clip lets the tool ride deep, making it discreet and secure. On the flip side, I did notice straight away that it doesn’t come with a separate carry pouch or sheath. While the clip works great, some people might miss having a belt option. Opening the pliers, the signature open-frame design is still there, but the spring-loaded action is the real hero. It’s immediately evident that this is designed for quick, one-handed tasks where you don’t want to constantly re-grip the tool.

Materials & Build Quality

The build quality of the Gerber Suspension-NXT is exactly what I expect from Gerber. It feels robust and ready to take a beating. While the specific steel type isn’t always heavily advertised for these utility tools, the construction is solid Stainless Steel, giving it the necessary resilience for corrosion resistance and tool strength.

The open-frame design isn’t just for looks; it keeps dirt and debris from accumulating, which is fantastic when you’re using it outdoors or on dusty jobs. Crucially, all the outboard tools lock securely into place, providing peace of mind when you’re applying pressure to the blade, saw, or drivers. There is absolutely no wiggling or accidental closing, which is a major safety feature. The Black finish seems hard-wearing and looks like it will hold up well against daily abrasion, though I expect some cosmetic wear over time, which just adds character to a well-used tool. This is a multi-tool built for actual work, not just sitting on a shelf.

Ergonomics & Weight

The transition from the older, beefier Suspension to the thinner gerber suspension nxt is a huge win for daily use. The slimmer profile makes it far more comfortable in a pocket, which is essential for an EDC item. The 196-gram weight hits a sweet spot, balancing substantial feel with carry comfort. It’s light enough that you forget it’s there until you need it, but heavy enough to feel confident when you’re working the pliers hard.

My favourite ergonomic feature has to be the spring-loaded needlenose pliers. You don’t realise how much hand fatigue is reduced until you try this. For repetitive tasks like gripping, bending, or stripping wire, the spring automatically opens the jaws, letting you focus on the task without fighting the tool. The tools are all accessible from the outside, meaning you don’t have to open the main pliers to access the blade or drivers, and the locks are easy to disengage with a thumb press. For someone with larger hands, the narrower profile of the handles felt perfectly fine, though maybe not as hand-filling as larger models. The deep-carry clip is also perfectly positioned, keeping the tool securely in your pocket, whether you’re scrambling up a ridge or just commuting on a busy train.

Performance & Features

The Gerber Suspension-NXT packs 15 functions, but it’s the right 15 functions for an EDC tool that makes the difference. The focus is clearly on utility. The needlenose and regular pliers are the core of the tool, and the spring-loaded action is a game-changer for control. The wire stripper is a key new addition and works exactly as you’d want it to for small electrical tasks.

The combination blade (plain and serrated) measures 5.7 cm, which is small but perfectly adequate for opening packages, cutting rope, or prepping food. I especially appreciate the combination of three different flathead drivers (small, medium, and large) and the reliable cross driver—this ensures you have the right fit for most screws you’ll encounter on a bike, camping gear, or around the workshop. Other tools like the can opener, bottle opener, file, and ruler (marked in cm and mm) are all there when you need them, ready to go since they are all outboard. Everything locks solid, making tasks safe and effective, whether you’re using the awl to poke a new hole in leather or the scissors for precision cuts. The tool selection is well thought out, serving the ‘weekend warrior’ perfectly.

Gear That Complements Your Camping Setup

The Gerber Suspension-NXT is a perfect starting point for any adventure kit, but you’ll probably need a few other essentials for a complete setup. If you’re heading off-road, having reliable Recovery Gear is non-negotiable, and pair this tool with a sharp Camping Knives for bigger camp tasks. To keep your electronics charged while out bush, make sure you look into Off-Grid Power solutions.

And if you’re planning a serious multi-day trek, don’t forget to check out our Ultralight Gear section to cut down on pack weight. Having the right 4WD Storage and Tyre Tools ready to go means you’re prepared for anything the outback throws at you.