While most EDC multi-tools pack more than six functions into a form factor that’s a bit thicker than you’d ideally want, Gerber wants to take the bold step of giving you the bare minimum. In practical use, most of those functions never even see the light of day – the ones used most are the knife, screwdriver, and the occasional toss of the beer bottle crown. Their Armbar Slim Drive EDC multi-tool (upgraded version of Armbar Drive) filters down the usual EDC functions to the least possible ones you’ll actually use most of the time.
The Gerber Armbar Slim Drive has just got the screwdriver, bottle opener, and a sharp blade – giving it a very slim profile – no more than a normal-sized writing instrument. This gives you the practical freedom to carry it with you at all times (literally all times in real-world usage) as opposed to other thick and heavy EDCs that you at most consider carrying in your backpack – no way in your pocket. The advantage here is the specialized function which will help you get through anything required. The multi-tool is designed in a way to give you substantial gripping power while cutting with the blade, and driving or prying the screwdriver tool. On top of that, the frame lock holds the tool steadfast when cutting through tough objects or the odd self-defense situation while walking down the alley on a dark night. The form factor of the overall tool reinforces the sleekness of the design, with a hawk-like form when folded gives it added strength and character.
In the fully opened position of the knife, it measures 6.75 inches in total – almost as good enough as a real knife with a superior grip. The tool comes with a fold-out two-inch bit driver to take care of any screwing tasks that come up. The driver has its own dual-sided bit – one a Philips bit and the other a flathead bit – for times when you don’t have your own driving bits. And yes, pardon me if I just forgot to mention the exposed bottle opener function at the rear end.
Designer: Gerber
