Gerber multi-tools

[orca8589]

I posted this in another thread, and there was no answer; I figured it might have been forgotten? Anyway:

I have a Gerber 400 that I got from my dad for Christmas in 2000. He bought it thinking it was American made, in Portland, I think. Was that one made here, or in China, or in Taiwan? It's put together very well, and I've used it pretty hard, with no ill effects. Everything is still pretty tight & sharp on it. It has GERBER over USA on one side. Anyone know the blade steel on these, and is it the same as the tools on it? The scissors say 'FISKARS'.

I have a larger one, I believe it's the 600 series, with bullnose jaws & replaceable carbide wirecutter inserts, that I bought from a member here. Same condition; used, beat on it a little, and it's held up fine. Marked GERBER & USA on one side as well. No scissors here, but a Wharncliffe blade & a serrated sheepsfoot. Same question: Blade steel? Same as the tools?

These have taken more than a little abuse, and being marked 'USA', both I and my dad thought these were U.S. made. I guess the big question is when did Gerber take full production overseas? I won't get rid of these either way, I'm just curious.

thx - cpr

 

[Toyz]

I was under the impression that they only have certain models made overseas - the higher end ones (more expensive) are made in US. I was in the local knife store the other day looking at one of their models and thats what the proprietor told me.

I have a hard time warming up to the gerber multi tools. I have two models that I bought years ago cheap - and I broke implements on both of them under relatively light duty use. Maybe I got bad ones - maybe I was Konging it and didn't realize.

Sounds like you and your Dad may have had better luck.:thumbup:

 

[Steely_Gunz]

Just a guess, but the age of the tool probably means it was made state side. Also, to my knowledge, pretty much every Gerber tool is now made overseas. They do make some higher end fixed blades and folders here, but I have not seen a tool in the box stores that was not marked MADE IN CHINA.

I had great success with a Gerber multi that I bought in 99-2000 at walmart for like 20 bucks. US made, great lock up, pliers didn't jam, etc. I think the blade and the other tools are all pretty much the same humdrum 400 stainless. Nothing special, but tough enough to do most jobs.

Edit to add: Did some checking and they do have some tools made stateside. The 600 series is.

 

[Toyz]

If this one (600) is their big beefy model, then it was the one I was handling when the guy told me they were still producing a few in the US.

 

[orca8589]

Edit to add: Did some checking and they do have some tools made stateside. The 600 series is.

Thanks for the info; that means a lot to me & my dad. :thumbup: So far these have been great workers; no complaints from me.

thx - cpr

 

[GIRLYmann]

i vaguely recall reading fine print on that the clam shell packaging, it was on the back of it's imprinted card, words to the effect that the sheath is "made in China" and that the tool isn't or that certain tool blades parts are imported.