Finding a reliable multi-tool usually leads people straight to Leatherman, but the price tag can be a barrier. Gerber has positioned the Suspension-NXT combo as a budget-friendly alternative. I have been putting this set through the paces to see if the cost savings are worth the trade-offs in design and performance.
Overview
The Suspension-NXT is a slimmed-down, pocket-clip-equipped version of the original Gerber Suspension. It features 15 tools in a butterfly-opening design. In many retail kits, it comes bundled with the Paraframe I, a skeletonized folding knife that has been a staple in the Gerber catalog for years. This combo is aimed at the hunter or outdoorsman who needs a “just in case” toolset without spending $100 plus.
Specifications
Suspension-NXT:
- Closed Length: 4.25 inches
- Weight: 6.7 oz
- Plier Type: Spring-loaded needle nose
- Locking: All tools lock
Paraframe I:
- Blade Length: 3.01 inches
- Steel: 7Cr17MoV Stainless
- Weight: 2.6 oz
- Lock Type: Frame lock
Usability: Suspension-NXT
The biggest win for the NXT is the outboard tool access. You do not have to open the pliers to get to the knife, file, or drivers. This is a massive improvement over older multi-tool designs. Every tool on this unit locks into place, which is a safety feature I consider mandatory for any tool used in the field.
However, the design is not perfect. While the pliers are decent, the scissors are a letdown. They feel flimsy and struggle with anything tougher than thin paper or loose threads. If you are looking to cut moleskin or heavy cordage, these will frustrate you.
Usability: Paraframe I
The Paraframe I is a simple, lightweight folder. It uses a frame lock design that is easy to clean, which is helpful if you happen to drop it in the dirt or use it for light messy work. It is not a heavy-duty blade, but as a secondary knife included in a combo, it gets the job done for basic tasks like opening packages or sharpening a stick.
Because the handle is skeletonized to save weight, the edge of the knife blade is somewhat exposed when the tool is closed. You have to be mindful of how you reach into your pocket or gear bag to avoid a nick.
Competitors: Gerber vs. Leatherman
The main rival here is the Leatherman Wingman.
- Price: The Gerber combo is significantly cheaper, often coming in at nearly half the price of a Wingman.
- Tools: Both have spring-action pliers. The Wingman has a much better pair of scissors and a more refined “fit and finish.”
- Weight: The NXT feels slightly more substantial in the hand, but the Wingman’s blade is fully enclosed and arguably safer for pocket carry.
Conclusion
The Gerber Suspension-NXT combo is a functional, entry-level kit. If you are prone to losing tools in the bush, the lower price point makes this a much easier pill to swallow than a high-end multi-tool. It provides the essential locking tools you need, provided you can overlook the subpar scissors and the exposed blade edge in the handle.
