Your reviews are, by far, the best on Tube for information about tools. You don’t waste any time telling us about your expertise or lack of biases before you get to the point. Your views are entirely factual. Any “complaints” you provide about a tool comprise feedback that designers and manufacturers would do well to heed. Your use of a grid background and the way you sometimes use your free hand as a backdrop are helpful for assessing size. You are providing a great service with these videos. I appreciate you.
I've owned the center drive and used it multiple times a day for the past 2 years. Beat multi tool I've ever used and I've always kept one on my belt. This is by far my favorite and most thought out tool I've tried out. I have the one with the black coating on the drive, plier head, and blades
Thanks for the video I almost purchased one of these until I watched this I used to be a die hard Gerber fan but can't bring myself to buy any of their products anymore. Every time I almost purchase one of their products I see a review like this and realize the days of owning Gerber products are gone
I have this model and had the first gen, loved them both but this one is the one to buy. As a property manager and Realtor the uses are endless and feel lost without it. Highly recommended.
Nick Tweel I really like the way Gerber is heading with their newer models. I think they need to make a couple of tweak. Definitely heading in the right direction though.
I use the mostly the those three things you mentioned and that is why I bought the centerdrive. I bought it just recently and did not realize they had a PLUS version.
I EDC this one daily. Reason; the 2 main things I use are the driver and the pliers. Both of which are great on this one. Super ez access to both too. Downside is; this is HEAVY MT. I love it. I have a blacked out one too. The wire cutters DO suck I agree. My name is Jeff and I have a multi-tool problem...... Thx for the detailed review.
I got this and regret it. Should've listened to you. Every issue you mention is very true. Also my pliers locks when i use them. So when crimping down they don't spring back. I have to open them with two hands to free them up. Will post a video soon. But great video as always thanks
@@txtoolcrib Actually, it's perfect. I do agree with you about the driver...would've been slick if they had it stop half way for torque'ier scenarios. I'm impressed though.
That’s great, I’m glad it is working out for you. I know a lot of brand loyalist would tell you what a huge mistake not buying their brand of choice is. I’m not that guy, I want people to find what fits best for them. I have always liked the idea of this multi tool. I wish they would refine it just a bit more though. I know a lot of people really like the OTF pliers, but I think this would be awesome in a butterfly style. At any rate, glad it is working out for you.
def a fun tool to use! nice heavy duty, it feels like this thing will never break. it is my second favorite multi tool to use. the changes I would love to see to it, I wish it had the full blade instead of the partial. also I wish the scissors were a bit better, they are a little too thick and harder to use when getting into smaller spaces. the pry bar is damn awesome tho, it can actually be used as a can opener too! its harder to use than a normal one you would find on any other multi tool but it still works! great video man!
Thank you, and thanks for watching. I hope you'll check out some of my other videos as well. I like the overall concept of the CenterDrive. I do feel that there is room for improvement though. It's nice to see Gerber making a real effort to compete in multi tool designs again. In my opinion, they have been lagging behind the pack for a number of years now. Hopefully that will change.
Just received mine. Good multitool, will be my EDC for the next few months. Construction quality OK. I also own a few LM's, Victorinox and SOG MT's, and this one compares to SOG and LM quality wise.
You hit the nail on the head again. I really like the Center Drive feature, they really up the bar when they did that, but I can't get past all its other flaws. They either have to lower the price, or fix those issues you mentioned for me to pull the trigger on one. Good review.
I like the fact that it has the most useful tools right there. Saws on multitools are a silly idea, you start with the knife and if it doesn't work who goes to the saw vs getting a proper tool. Honestly I preferred the old design, keep it simple and make it essentially bomb proof, a million Fancy tools you never will use is just shit you carry around..
Thanks for the great video. I was getting ready to purchase one of these and decided I better check out the reviews first. I watched about three videos and yours was by far the most informative. Sadly, I will not be buying one now.
Another great & informative video.. Thanks Ben ! Would love to know your thoughts on the Gerber MP1 & MP1 MRO (basically center-drive variants, but with butter-fly opening, instead of slide out pliers)
I was looking into finding aftermarket upgrade cutters to replace the Center drive carbide cutters. What I found on a forum is that the cutters are the same dimension as a cutter frequently used with lathes. Forget the cutter number off the top of my head. They are interchangeable and Gerber barely modified the design for the cutters they use in the pliers. I see a market for 154CM upgraded cutters for the Gerber Center drive as well as updated MP600 models. As equipped, Gerber does not market the pliers as being capable of cutting something like a 10d common nail. If you read the instructions as most people do NOT do. The pliers can cut fish hooks, or solid copper core wire only. Not intended for stranded wire. I have had no issues with cutting stranded with a jacket. Thick wire, small nails will cause the cutters to shatter unless they are modified with a better bevel. Not sure why Gerber would put cutters like these in a heavy duty multi-tool. They should have realized, that the common consumer will try to cut the same materials they cut with a Leatherman. I am starting to think that Gerber, Leatherman, and Victorinox do not watch review videos on their own products. Wasted resource for ideas.
I just got my hands on the Center Drive in all black. Gerber is definitely coming back and I can tell that they’re listening to criticism and that’s awesome. Try to criticize leatherman or sog without someone attacking you lol I love my Center Drive to death and I use it daily. I don’t have to buy the bits separately or an extension separately. They include the bits and they aren’t flat, standard 1/4” bits that I have a ton of as is so it’s nice to customize my bit carrier with what I know I’ll use more of. Just a great all around tool.
That was an excellent review. Thank you very much. I agree 100% with your analysis. Even a 154CM blade and your change to the carbide cutters and it would be a Customer/Gerber win/win and a kickass multi-tool!
I have subscribed. You have a most excellent channel and presentation. Your evaluation of the function and engineering of the P4 was so very informative!!
Based on your review, I got the original center drive in black. Couldn't figure out as a a carpenter and renovator when I would ever need those tiny, lame scissors and was attracted to the unserrated knife blade. Thanks for a cool review.
As they say, "different strokes for different folks." I really liked your review, but I disagree on a couple of minor points. I have a slightly different model that doesn't have the combo knife blade, doesn't have the scissors, but does have a serrated blade in their place. Myself, I've never ever seen a pair of scissors on a multi-tool I found usable -- at least not after using them a lot. I'd like scissors, and maybe Gerber makes better scissors (I'm basing my judgment on Leatherman's). As for the serrated blade on my Center Drive, I love that thing! I don't know why people don't know how to sharpen a serrated blade, but mine can do anything from skinning kindling to using it like a saw. No complaints with mine. As for the main blade, I hear good and bad things about the knife Gerber includes, but I love mine. It's a genuine working knife blade, and I keep mine razor sharp. I'm not afraid of dulling the hell out of it, either. I just sharpen it again. I have to agree wholeheartedly with your assessment of everything else. The pliers are great, the wire cutters suck. The pry-tool/bottle opener could be longer, but you lose the bottle opener if you do. Oh, God, the humanity! No bottle opener on a multi-tool??? I love the awl, and like you, see no need for an eyelet. The driver is unsurpassed in my opinion. I don't know how I'd get by without my Center Drive. I lucked into mine at Walmart for $88, but with the ballistic nylon sheath, and the driver bits were missing. Still can't get Gerber's attention on buying a leather sheath and even just the bit holder! Great video, even with my small disagreements. But nobody sees everything eye-to-eye.
Great review, and you have raised some excellent points. 10:45 That handle for the scissors looks so uncomfortable. Thin, short, and behind the locking part. Could they not fit the RemGrit holder in there? Also, come on Gerber. You made the blade a combo edge? Why?
Me problem with that center drive is that the arm is 2/3 longer than what it needs to be. I also agree that their outta be a 90 stop on it as well but that would also benifit from a shortened arm
How are the pliers on the Center-drive compared to the surge. I've had to use my Surge to undo 3/8 lag bolts from a 4x6. The Center-drive looks flimsy, could they do the same task? Lag-bolt was 3/8 x 3"
I really want a pocket clip on mine i really don't like sheaths especially the cheaper nylon ones. I purchased an aftermarket kydex sheath/holster for it but still want that pocket clip on the tool itself
I broke the carbide cutter inserts on my Gerber Center Drive then I went to Gerber's homepage and noticed that those cutters have a 5 year record of bad reviews, mostly for the same reason, so I guess a lot of people have had the same problem. Has Gerber ever addressed this in any way, and if so how? People have suggested making the inserts out of steel instead (like a Leatherman does), has there been any talk about that from Gerber? It really seems like the way to go.
Just to be sure, the real diference between the plus and the normal are the knive and the scissors? Because there is a 50€ diference between them and I dont think its that worth it.
Have you ever seen or used the gerber multiplier with Snap-On talon grip needle nose plier heads. Snap-On part number SMT97R. In my personal opinion the best pliers I’ve ever used in a multitool.
TX Tool Crib I believe I have an unused pair as my backup that I wouldn’t mind lending you for a tabletop review, I f you’re interested. Anyway thanks for the reply and God Bless. Great channel and love the content
Good video. In my opinion, if Gerber changes to a butterfly style, you would already be losing the ability to have one of the tools to access with one hand. Then the center drive would be a copy of the wave or the Surge. It seems to me that Gerber has this concept of openness for pliers well defined and is classic. However, if the center drive can have improvements such as the cutting blades, they definitely use better material. I have an MP 600 Blunt nose, it has the same system of cutting blades, it does not give me problems but compared to my Letherman Rebar it shows that Gerber needs to pay more attention to that detail.
That is true. I have just never been a huge fan of the OTF pliers, though I know a lot of people gravitate to Gerber specifically for that feature. I wish Gerber would improve upon their other tools some more though.
I think the center drive is a good idea but should have gave it a bit more angle so the driver would be dead center between both handles to me so what if there would be a slight bump in the handle when it’s folded bit I think it would work a bit better
Chris Reuther using the cutters on a fish hook would fracture the cutters, rendering them useless. I would not recommend cutting any hard wire with those cutters.
I am 100% a leatherman fanboy. I have about 11 different leathermans. I bought one of these. And now carry it every day at work. I like it so much I just bought a backup. Now that's saying something. Ohh I'm talking about the origional centerdrive not the plus version. I don't like combo blades
To each his own on his tools right? But on this one I 100% Agreed with all his commentary. This tool is geared towards guys like me. I currently carry the surge and it’s great, but an outside accessible driver would be amazing. I agree-strides in the right direction but haven’t caught up to the surge and wave. However I think this concept absolutely has the potential to be around for the long haul. And it should. If Gerber does right by their concept it will be here forever
Have you seen some of the mods where guys are adding the CenterDrive driver arm to the Surge? A little bit of work, but it might be something you would be interested in.
I watch a lot of your videos/reviews I know that the two Center Drive are a few years and you probably won’t see this. For the pliers and wire cutters to work correctly you need to use one of tools you never talk about. The extra bit holder has to locked in the up position for the following reasons. 1) gives you access to the spare bit (it won’t fall out) 2) this allows the pliers come together tighter 3) allows the wire cutters to come together tightly so they will cut better 4) gives you access to one of the Center Drive features that you and most people miss the spare bit holder is also where the lanyard string goes through so you don’t drop the tool or if you need both hands let go of the tool and you still have it attached to your wrist. I totally agree that file is horrible Gerber needs a diamond file. On the Plus the scissors are useless. The small pry tool is useless. To improve the Center Drive or Center Drive Plus start by removing the can opener and bottle opener. Replacing the file with a diamond file and removing the scissors than beef up the pry bar moving it the end. Then with any room left over add to the screwdriver bits on the tool and making them stronger. The last thing change out the cutters with the following from the “LittleMachineShop” two High Speed Steel Insert TCMW-2-1.5-1 (B01-07 1724). The cutters are a direct fit into the tool Lawrence Hubbard
I'd love to see a Center Drive Slim with the driver, awl, plain edge blade, and maybe serrated blade. Just the basics and no half-measure tools (like crappy scissors, crappy file, crappy pry tool). Or rework the locking mechanism so they can put real scissors in it
12:51 --- On switching from sliding to butterfly --- Gerber used butterfly on the MP1 predecessor. The MP1 was a really cool design, albeit with some execution weaknesses. I guess it sold poorly, given the retirement of the model.
I have a leatherman rebar. Had it for about 3 years and I really want this but the only thing I want it for is the centre drive and being able to use my own bits. I dont think it's worth the money tho...
Simon, Leatherman sells the bit adapter kit that slips on the square Phillips bit ! Get one, it fits quite a few Leatherman multitools ! The bit kit holds several 1/4”hex bits too.
If they did double-sided bits you wouldn't have as much surface area for the magnet to contact the bit with. And you wouldn't be able to use off the shelf hex bits. That is one of the reasons I am not as high on Leatherman as most people are. You have to buy their bits so you can use their bit driver. That is one of the biggest weakness, in my opinion, is that they don't use standard hex bits. And some of the bits they have for it are pretty much useless, in my opinion.
If they went with double sided type bits, the magnets would be eliminated in favor of ball detent bits. I feel kind of the opposite about Leatherman bits. I like the narrower bits because you can carry quite a few more with you comfortably. I understand where you’re coming from though. Thanks for watching.
@@txtoolcrib I like the fact you can go and get standard hex bits and you can mix and match better fo what you do better. You have more bits to choose from than you do with Leatherman without having to buy their extension tool.
I'm pretty sure the notch in the wire cutter is a wire stripper. It looked like that actually worked pretty well. But the cutter is a fail. If only the tool had a knife....lol.
Literally just realized these were made in the USA, I always thought the centerdrive was made in china. They used to be like 70 dollars, so maybe they did used to be made in china when they were that price, but I can't find any evidence.
I have a normal Centerdrive. Nice tool but it needs work. Dump the gimmicky pry tool which will make room for a chisel, the scissors from the plus, an eyeglass driver, and a detachable firefly style ferro rod. Then add a full size saw on the outside. A saw is thin and could easily tuck in behind the driver. Put a hole in the awl (I have used awls to patch a motorcycle jacket). Finally, dump those garbage carbide wire cutters for 154CM. I’ve broken a stupid number of carbide cutters on my Gerber tools
You’re quite right. I have a slightly different setup now and placed the microphone in a bad location. I think I have it rectified now. Thank you for bringing it to my attention.
@@txtoolcrib One more thing. I just got the center drive, very impressed. But I need help getting the pliers to fly out of the handles with a downward wrist snap. What's the secret and should I lubricate with a fine synthetic tool oil? Thanks again.
@@txtoolcrib It doesn't. There is a lock button on the edge that has to be depressed, and the pliers pushed slightly forward, then the wrist motion can force them forward on my new tool. I'm thinking of adding some SuperLube on that button where it slides along the rails, and the one on the opposite side. No way it will just eject without that lock being released and the pliers being nudged forward. Maybe I'm missing something? Thanks for your help on this.
As nice as having the driver centered is I would rather have the Leatherman Surge and its driver setup. Wish both had a decent 90 degree opening option (the Surge would need the driver moved to the outside for this to work though)
I broke the cutters, prybar and awl with the first use on my centerdrive. Nothing extreme, just what you would expect them to handle. Not sure if its better on the plus model. Like you say, the concept is good but gerber makes mostly overpriced low quality tools these days
I dont know man. The bit driver is pretty much the only feature on the tool that set it appart and to be fair its not that much of an improvement over what is on the CRKT Technician or Gerber GP1 that also have an external bit driver but a more comprehensive toolset overall. I appreciate the lenght and thinness of the centered driver though. Gerber likes to pretend its super awkward to use an offset bit driver but its really not.
Imo, I feel like you hyper focused on what you viewed as tool defining flaws instead of being more contextual. No one makes a flawless multi-tool as they all have compromises. This centerdrive is based around the 1/4" bit driver on out the outside for easy access that no one in the industry has been able to overcome that obstacle in this type of elegant design. That alone should tell you the volumes it speaks. Not even a $200 Surge+ with have a built in 1/4" bit driver like that. (I also carry with me a Malco reversible 1/4 & 5/16 bit to compliment this tool). Last, I disagree with your desire to see a tiny saw blade on a work focused multi-tool, since Id never use that in an industrial setting. Still enjoy most of the posted videos here, but happen to largely disagree with this one.
It’s like every implement was just stamped out with no attention to contours or design. I also don’t like the plastic slide release switch. All metal please. Back to the drawing board Gerber.
For me its a unforgivable failure for the plyers to not be able to effectively cut and the fact they can fracture is a even more agregious failure. Also id have to say why didn't they replace the plastic horrible lock with a low profile metal one then the scissors could of had a longer arm and then the plastic locks wouldn't bust off if you droped it on concrete. I can't stand all these failures. I can't be a fan of this tool.
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Your reviews are, by far, the best on Tube for information about tools. You don’t waste any time telling us about your expertise or lack of biases before you get to the point. Your views are entirely factual. Any “complaints” you provide about a tool comprise feedback that designers and manufacturers would do well to heed. Your use of a grid background and the way you sometimes use your free hand as a backdrop are helpful for assessing size. You are providing a great service with these videos. I appreciate you.
I've owned the center drive and used it multiple times a day for the past 2 years. Beat multi tool I've ever used and I've always kept one on my belt. This is by far my favorite and most thought out tool I've tried out. I have the one with the black coating on the drive, plier head, and blades
I’ve been carry on my belt for years. And one in my work bag. I did recently upgrade the wire cutters to high speed steel cutters.
Notch on the cutters are for wire stripping. Supposed to cut only through the wire sheath. Brilliant idea on the 90 degree driver for torque
Pretty hard to control like that I would think.
Thanks for the video I almost purchased one of these until I watched this I used to be a die hard Gerber fan but can't bring myself to buy any of their products anymore. Every time I almost purchase one of their products I see a review like this and realize the days of owning Gerber products are gone
I’m hopeful that Gerber is working to be more competitive. They didn’t wait long to try to update the CenterDrive, I hope that trend continues.
Welcome back! Thanks for the review.
Yes sir, thank you.
Detailed and work-reasoned review. Thank! Greetings from Russia)
I have this model and had the first gen, loved them both but this one is the one to buy. As a property manager and Realtor the uses are endless and feel lost without it. Highly recommended.
Nick Tweel I really like the way Gerber is heading with their newer models. I think they need to make a couple of tweak. Definitely heading in the right direction though.
I use the mostly the those three things you mentioned and that is why I bought the centerdrive. I bought it just recently and did not realize they had a PLUS version.
I enjoyed your honest tool review I just bought myself a gerber center drive off eBay for $40
Thank you very much, I appreciate you watching.
wtf in italy is 140euro
I EDC this one daily. Reason; the 2 main things I use are the driver and the pliers. Both of which are great on this one. Super ez access to both too. Downside is; this is HEAVY MT. I love it. I have a blacked out one too. The wire cutters DO suck I agree.
My name is Jeff and I have a multi-tool problem......
Thx for the detailed review.
I got this and regret it. Should've listened to you. Every issue you mention is very true. Also my pliers locks when i use them. So when crimping down they don't spring back. I have to open them with two hands to free them up. Will post a video soon. But great video as always thanks
I have found the little prying tool helpful for opening cans and as a mini nail puller
Awesome video. Just picked one of these up based on your review.
Thank you. Have you found it to be the right multi tool for you?
@@txtoolcrib Actually, it's perfect. I do agree with you about the driver...would've been slick if they had it stop half way for torque'ier scenarios. I'm impressed though.
That’s great, I’m glad it is working out for you. I know a lot of brand loyalist would tell you what a huge mistake not buying their brand of choice is. I’m not that guy, I want people to find what fits best for them. I have always liked the idea of this multi tool. I wish they would refine it just a bit more though. I know a lot of people really like the OTF pliers, but I think this would be awesome in a butterfly style. At any rate, glad it is working out for you.
def a fun tool to use! nice heavy duty, it feels like this thing will never break. it is my second favorite multi tool to use. the changes I would love to see to it, I wish it had the full blade instead of the partial. also I wish the scissors were a bit better, they are a little too thick and harder to use when getting into smaller spaces. the pry bar is damn awesome tho, it can actually be used as a can opener too! its harder to use than a normal one you would find on any other multi tool but it still works! great video man!
Thank you, and thanks for watching. I hope you'll check out some of my other videos as well. I like the overall concept of the CenterDrive. I do feel that there is room for improvement though. It's nice to see Gerber making a real effort to compete in multi tool designs again. In my opinion, they have been lagging behind the pack for a number of years now. Hopefully that will change.
awesome as always
Thank you, and thanks for watching.
Thanks for a well thought thru vid!
Glad you liked it!
Just received mine. Good multitool, will be my EDC for the next few months. Construction quality OK. I also own a few LM's, Victorinox and SOG MT's, and this one compares to SOG and LM quality wise.
You hit the nail on the head again. I really like the Center Drive feature, they really up the bar when they did that, but I can't get past all its other flaws. They either have to lower the price, or fix those issues you mentioned for me to pull the trigger on one. Good review.
Thank you very much.
I like the fact that it has the most useful tools right there. Saws on multitools are a silly idea, you start with the knife and if it doesn't work who goes to the saw vs getting a proper tool. Honestly I preferred the old design, keep it simple and make it essentially bomb proof, a million Fancy tools you never will use is just shit you carry around..
Thanks, I enjoy this video.
You’re quite welcome sir.
Nice and great review !!!! You help a lot my choice
You’re welcome.
Thanks for the great video. I was getting ready to purchase one of these and decided I better check out the reviews first. I watched about three videos and yours was by far the most informative. Sadly, I will not be buying one now.
You’re welcome.
i realize Im kind of randomly asking but does anybody know a good place to watch newly released tv shows online?
@Shepard Lucian i use flixzone. You can find it by googling :)
@Shepherd Angel yea, I've been watching on Flixzone for months myself =)
@Shepherd Angel thanks, I went there and it seems to work :) I really appreciate it!
I use my carbide cutters a lot on zip ties and it does really well.
I wish they cut copper wire a bit better. I feel like the carbide cutters are the one weakness in this multi tool that could very easily be upgraded.
Pretty kewl how you potentially have them the idea behind the dual force 🤣 nice one man🤙🏽
Thanks for the vid.
Would be nice to see a comparison with this and the gerber MP 1
Absolutely.
Another great & informative video.. Thanks Ben ! Would love to know your thoughts on the Gerber MP1 & MP1 MRO (basically center-drive variants, but with butter-fly opening, instead of slide out pliers)
I put a slight edge on my carbide cutters. Work like a charm now
I should give that a try, a shame they don’t do that from the factory.
I was looking into finding aftermarket upgrade cutters to replace the Center drive carbide cutters. What I found on a forum is that the cutters are the same dimension as a cutter frequently used with lathes. Forget the cutter number off the top of my head. They are interchangeable and Gerber barely modified the design for the cutters they use in the pliers. I see a market for 154CM upgraded cutters for the Gerber Center drive as well as updated MP600 models. As equipped, Gerber does not market the pliers as being capable of cutting something like a 10d common nail. If you read the instructions as most people do NOT do. The pliers can cut fish hooks, or solid copper core wire only. Not intended for stranded wire. I have had no issues with cutting stranded with a jacket. Thick wire, small nails will cause the cutters to shatter unless they are modified with a better bevel. Not sure why Gerber would put cutters like these in a heavy duty multi-tool. They should have realized, that the common consumer will try to cut the same materials they cut with a Leatherman. I am starting to think that Gerber, Leatherman, and Victorinox do not watch review videos on their own products. Wasted resource for ideas.
I just got my hands on the Center Drive in all black. Gerber is definitely coming back and I can tell that they’re listening to criticism and that’s awesome. Try to criticize leatherman or sog without someone attacking you lol I love my Center Drive to death and I use it daily. I don’t have to buy the bits separately or an extension separately. They include the bits and they aren’t flat, standard 1/4” bits that I have a ton of as is so it’s nice to customize my bit carrier with what I know I’ll use more of. Just a great all around tool.
Must be some variation in production. My pliers cuts stranded copper wire just fine. Notch in the bottom of cutters is for stripping wires.
I love the one Center Drive I have and may buy others to put in my vehicles as they are good tools.
I think they are a good concept but not quite a good tool just yet. I hope that they end up tweaking this design to make it a bit better.
I think you are right, they are right there and a little tweaking it would be perfect, also excellent review. You pulled the nail out if the board
Excellent review on this centerline. Perhaps Gerber should review this and improve on linecutter etc.
Thank you very much sir.
When i ned a bit more tork on my letherman rev i open the plier handles half way in just wondering if you can do that on this
That was an excellent review. Thank you very much. I agree 100% with your analysis. Even a 154CM blade and your change to the carbide cutters and it would be a Customer/Gerber win/win and a kickass multi-tool!
Leonidas Lantz Thank you. Thanks for watching too. I hope you’ll check out some of my other multi tool reviews as well.
I have subscribed. You have a most excellent channel and presentation. Your evaluation of the function and engineering of the P4 was so very informative!!
Leonidas Lantz I really appreciate your subscription. Thank you.
Based on your review, I got the original center drive in black. Couldn't figure out as a a carpenter and renovator when I would ever need those tiny, lame scissors and was attracted to the unserrated knife blade. Thanks for a cool review.
You're very welcome.
As they say, "different strokes for different folks." I really liked your review, but I disagree on a couple of minor points. I have a slightly different model that doesn't have the combo knife blade, doesn't have the scissors, but does have a serrated blade in their place. Myself, I've never ever seen a pair of scissors on a multi-tool I found usable -- at least not after using them a lot. I'd like scissors, and maybe Gerber makes better scissors (I'm basing my judgment on Leatherman's). As for the serrated blade on my Center Drive, I love that thing! I don't know why people don't know how to sharpen a serrated blade, but mine can do anything from skinning kindling to using it like a saw. No complaints with mine. As for the main blade, I hear good and bad things about the knife Gerber includes, but I love mine. It's a genuine working knife blade, and I keep mine razor sharp. I'm not afraid of dulling the hell out of it, either. I just sharpen it again.
I have to agree wholeheartedly with your assessment of everything else. The pliers are great, the wire cutters suck. The pry-tool/bottle opener could be longer, but you lose the bottle opener if you do. Oh, God, the humanity! No bottle opener on a multi-tool??? I love the awl, and like you, see no need for an eyelet. The driver is unsurpassed in my opinion. I don't know how I'd get by without my Center Drive. I lucked into mine at Walmart for $88, but with the ballistic nylon sheath, and the driver bits were missing. Still can't get Gerber's attention on buying a leather sheath and even just the bit holder!
Great video, even with my small disagreements. But nobody sees everything eye-to-eye.
if you want good scissors, try the swisstool x, those are very precise and work well, like all the rest of the tools on it:)
Great review, and you have raised some excellent points.
10:45 That handle for the scissors looks so uncomfortable. Thin, short, and behind the locking part.
Could they not fit the RemGrit holder in there?
Also, come on Gerber. You made the blade a combo edge? Why?
Thank you. I appreciate you taking the time to watch.
Has anyone mentioned that you can swop the carbide cutters with lathe cutters??
Me problem with that center drive is that the arm is 2/3 longer than what it needs to be. I also agree that their outta be a 90 stop on it as well but that would also benifit from a shortened arm
good review subbed
Thank you. Thank you for subscribing as well.
I might buy one idk yet
How are the pliers on the Center-drive compared to the surge. I've had to use my Surge to undo 3/8 lag bolts from a 4x6. The Center-drive looks flimsy, could they do the same task? Lag-bolt was 3/8 x 3"
Surge pliers are superior in every way in my opinion. I often perform similar tasks. Surge is far and away better for that function.
I really want a pocket clip on mine i really don't like sheaths especially the cheaper nylon ones. I purchased an aftermarket kydex sheath/holster for it but still want that pocket clip on the tool itself
I broke the carbide cutter inserts on my Gerber Center Drive then I went to Gerber's homepage and noticed that those cutters have a 5 year record of bad reviews, mostly for the same reason, so I guess a lot of people have had the same problem.
Has Gerber ever addressed this in any way, and if so how? People have suggested making the inserts out of steel instead (like a Leatherman does), has there been any talk about that from Gerber? It really seems like the way to go.
There hasn’t been any indication that they plan on changing those carbide cutters that I’m aware of. I absolutely think they should though.
It’s a very good multi tool. I agree better cutters and replace the plastic lock with something a little more robust and it’s good to go.
I hope they continue to improve on this design. I think it could be really good if they did.
Just to be sure, the real diference between the plus and the normal are the knive and the scissors? Because there is a 50€ diference between them and I dont think its that worth it.
Have you ever seen or used the gerber multiplier with Snap-On talon grip needle nose plier heads. Snap-On part number SMT97R. In my personal opinion the best pliers I’ve ever used in a multitool.
I know which ones you’re referring too. I’ve never seen them up close though.
TX Tool Crib I believe I have an unused pair as my backup that I wouldn’t mind lending you for a tabletop review, I f you’re interested. Anyway thanks for the reply and God Bless. Great channel and love the content
John Jando yeah that would be great. Just contact me through my email and we can make arrangements. txtoolcrib@gmail.com
7:03 the notch is to strip wires right??
Good video. In my opinion, if Gerber changes to a butterfly style, you would already be losing the ability to have one of the tools to access with one hand. Then the center drive would be a copy of the wave or the Surge. It seems to me that Gerber has this concept of openness for pliers well defined and is classic. However, if the center drive can have improvements such as the cutting blades, they definitely use better material. I have an MP 600 Blunt nose, it has the same system of cutting blades, it does not give me problems but compared to my Letherman Rebar it shows that Gerber needs to pay more attention to that detail.
That is true. I have just never been a huge fan of the OTF pliers, though I know a lot of people gravitate to Gerber specifically for that feature. I wish Gerber would improve upon their other tools some more though.
Have you tried this tool with High speed steel cutters instead of the carbide ones?
I have not, but I have heard it is a useful upgrade by those that prefer the CenterDrive.
I think the center drive is a good idea but should have gave it a bit more angle so the driver would be dead center between both handles to me so what if there would be a slight bump in the handle when it’s folded bit I think it would work a bit better
Hey... how do the gerber cutters on the centerdrive hold up to something simple like a fish hook?
Chris Reuther using the cutters on a fish hook would fracture the cutters, rendering them useless. I would not recommend cutting any hard wire with those cutters.
TX Tool Crib I would say it makes them pretty useless
Chris Reuther it is definitely something I wish they would change. I would like to see these cutters switched to a 154CM.
TX Tool Crib I would snag one if they did that or went back to standard ones and not the replacements
Does the bald lock?
Centerdrive or leathernan Charge tti?
I think I can look past the wire cutters for the huge benefit of the awesome driver. Great review
Works great as a driver
I am 100% a leatherman fanboy. I have about 11 different leathermans. I bought one of these. And now carry it every day at work. I like it so much I just bought a backup. Now that's saying something. Ohh I'm talking about the origional centerdrive not the plus version. I don't like combo blades
To each his own on his tools right? But on this one I 100% Agreed with all his commentary. This tool is geared towards guys like me. I currently carry the surge and it’s great, but an outside accessible driver would be amazing. I agree-strides in the right direction but haven’t caught up to the surge and wave. However I think this concept absolutely has the potential to be around for the long haul. And it should. If Gerber does right by their concept it will be here forever
Have you seen some of the mods where guys are adding the CenterDrive driver arm to the Surge? A little bit of work, but it might be something you would be interested in.
Rly.. surge and wave? CD trumps all of those junk. You are at loss here.
I just wish they put a screw or bolt where the rivets are so you could replace a tool if it breaks
I watch a lot of your videos/reviews I know that the two Center Drive are a few years and you probably won’t see this. For the pliers and wire cutters to work correctly you need to use one of tools you never talk about. The extra bit holder has to locked in the up position for the following reasons.
1) gives you access to the spare bit (it won’t fall out)
2) this allows the pliers come together tighter
3) allows the wire cutters to come together tightly so they will cut better
4) gives you access to one of the Center Drive features that you and most people miss the spare bit holder is also where the lanyard string goes through so you don’t drop the tool or if you need both hands let go of the tool and you still have it attached to your wrist.
I totally agree that file is horrible Gerber needs a diamond file. On the Plus the scissors are useless. The small pry tool is useless.
To improve the Center Drive or Center Drive Plus start by removing the can opener and bottle opener. Replacing the file with a diamond file and removing the scissors than beef up the pry bar moving it the end. Then with any room left over add to the screwdriver bits on the tool and making them stronger. The last thing change out the cutters with the following from the “LittleMachineShop” two High Speed Steel Insert TCMW-2-1.5-1 (B01-07 1724). The cutters are a direct fit into the tool
Lawrence Hubbard
Good suggestions. Thanks for pointing us in the right direction on the cutters.
Gerber is the AK47 of multitools. It'll rattle, shake and get mud in its innards, but it won't fail you in the field.
I’ll take your word for it.
I'd love to see a Center Drive Slim with the driver, awl, plain edge blade, and maybe serrated blade. Just the basics and no half-measure tools (like crappy scissors, crappy file, crappy pry tool). Or rework the locking mechanism so they can put real scissors in it
12:51 --- On switching from sliding to butterfly --- Gerber used butterfly on the MP1 predecessor. The MP1 was a really cool design, albeit with some execution weaknesses. I guess it sold poorly, given the retirement of the model.
Unfortunately, that is one I never got to use.
I have a leatherman rebar. Had it for about 3 years and I really want this but the only thing I want it for is the centre drive and being able to use my own bits. I dont think it's worth the money tho...
It has some limitations from my point of view.
Simon, Leatherman sells the bit adapter kit that slips on the square Phillips bit ! Get one, it fits quite a few Leatherman multitools ! The bit kit holds several 1/4”hex bits too.
A 90 degree driver position to get that “extra” torque would probably bend the tools frame.
You may be right
I’m bummed mine didn’t come with the Scissors!!
You have the regular CenterDrive version?
TX Tool Crib yes when first went on sale
The carbide cutters can be rotated and be damaged 3 times anyway nice review
They can, but they are pretty fragile in my opinion.
If they did double-sided bits you wouldn't have as much surface area for the magnet to contact the bit with. And you wouldn't be able to use off the shelf hex bits. That is one of the reasons I am not as high on Leatherman as most people are. You have to buy their bits so you can use their bit driver. That is one of the biggest weakness, in my opinion, is that they don't use standard hex bits. And some of the bits they have for it are pretty much useless, in my opinion.
If they went with double sided type bits, the magnets would be eliminated in favor of ball detent bits. I feel kind of the opposite about Leatherman bits. I like the narrower bits because you can carry quite a few more with you comfortably. I understand where you’re coming from though. Thanks for watching.
@@txtoolcrib I like the fact you can go and get standard hex bits and you can mix and match better fo what you do better. You have more bits to choose from than you do with Leatherman without having to buy their extension tool.
I got a set of hs steel inserts from my fastenal dealer to replace the carbide
I assume you are getting much better results out of those cutters.
@@txtoolcrib they cut wire much better than the carbide
I'm pretty sure the notch in the wire cutter is a wire stripper. It looked like that actually worked pretty well. But the cutter is a fail. If only the tool had a knife....lol.
Those cutters certainly are a disappointment.
I wish they would have used better Steel for the blade for the price.
Wow, there’s yet to be a multi tool better than the surge.
At least not in my opinion, for whatever that is worth.
I'll prefer the Gerber armbar over this . It's way more functional and minimalist
And cheap and edc pocketable.
Literally just realized these were made in the USA, I always thought the centerdrive was made in china. They used to be like 70 dollars, so maybe they did used to be made in china when they were that price, but I can't find any evidence.
I have a normal Centerdrive. Nice tool but it needs work. Dump the gimmicky pry tool which will make room for a chisel, the scissors from the plus, an eyeglass driver, and a detachable firefly style ferro rod. Then add a full size saw on the outside. A saw is thin and could easily tuck in behind the driver. Put a hole in the awl (I have used awls to patch a motorcycle jacket). Finally, dump those garbage carbide wire cutters for 154CM. I’ve broken a stupid number of carbide cutters on my Gerber tools
Good suggestions.
Ben, please consider tuning your audio. It is a little low. Thanks!
You’re quite right. I have a slightly different setup now and placed the microphone in a bad location. I think I have it rectified now. Thank you for bringing it to my attention.
One more thing, the thing that sold me on this tool vs. the Leatherman Surge is the epic fail on that "stubby" screwdriver. Not. Just my two cents.
If that is one of your main uses, makes perfect sense.
@@txtoolcrib One more thing. I just got the center drive, very impressed. But I need help getting the pliers to fly out of the handles with a downward wrist snap. What's the secret and should I lubricate with a fine synthetic tool oil? Thanks again.
Gary Brant slightly pinch the handles together so that they are parallel. Should fly right out.
@@txtoolcrib It doesn't. There is a lock button on the edge that has to be depressed, and the pliers pushed slightly forward, then the wrist motion can force them forward on my new tool. I'm thinking of adding some SuperLube on that button where it slides along the rails, and the one on the opposite side. No way it will just eject without that lock being released and the pliers being nudged forward. Maybe I'm missing something? Thanks for your help on this.
Ya the only thing I don't like is the cutters by the pliers
You and me both.
Me too! Not a fan of combination blade, thats the only downside I don't like about this updated '+' version 😒
I love the driver tho
Yeah, it’s pretty nice for a multi tool.
As nice as having the driver centered is I would rather have the Leatherman Surge and its driver setup. Wish both had a decent 90 degree opening option (the Surge would need the driver moved to the outside for this to work though)
How the hell gerber haven"t changed those carbide cutters i"ll never know - for the sake of a few more $ this could be a much better tool............
“This would be a great tool if you just changed everything” geez... I agree though. It sucks. Like all of gerbers multitools
No, Simply Because Of The Hole In The Blade.
I broke the cutters, prybar and awl with the first use on my centerdrive. Nothing extreme, just what you would expect them to handle. Not sure if its better on the plus model. Like you say, the concept is good but gerber makes mostly overpriced low quality tools these days
Hopefully they can improve. I would love to see this in a butterfly style multi tool.
I dont know man. The bit driver is pretty much the only feature on the tool that set it appart and to be fair its not that much of an improvement over what is on the CRKT Technician or Gerber GP1 that also have an external bit driver but a more comprehensive toolset overall. I appreciate the lenght and thinness of the centered driver though. Gerber likes to pretend its super awkward to use an offset bit driver but its really not.
Ageed
Get rid of the sliding pliers?!
How dare you sir.
Wish you would of said the price first no way this thing beats a surge sorry
Imo, I feel like you hyper focused on what you viewed as tool defining flaws instead of being more contextual. No one makes a flawless multi-tool as they all have compromises. This centerdrive is based around the 1/4" bit driver on out the outside for easy access that no one in the industry has been able to overcome that obstacle in this type of elegant design. That alone should tell you the volumes it speaks. Not even a $200 Surge+ with have a built in 1/4" bit driver like that. (I also carry with me a Malco reversible 1/4 & 5/16 bit to compliment this tool).
Last, I disagree with your desire to see a tiny saw blade on a work focused multi-tool, since Id never use that in an industrial setting. Still enjoy most of the posted videos here, but happen to largely disagree with this one.
Center drive? But its not in the center 😂🤦♂️
Not quite, but close.
I hate serrated blades!
It’s like every implement was just stamped out with no attention to contours or design. I also don’t like the plastic slide release switch. All metal please. Back to the drawing board Gerber.
There is definite room for improvement, but I like the concept.
For me its a unforgivable failure for the plyers to not be able to effectively cut and the fact they can fracture is a even more agregious failure. Also id have to say why didn't they replace the plastic horrible lock with a low profile metal one then the scissors could of had a longer arm and then the plastic locks wouldn't bust off if you droped it on concrete. I can't stand all these failures. I can't be a fan of this tool.