Gerber Suspension NXT Multitool Review

Bottom Line

Updated from its Suspension predecessor, the lighter and shorter Gerber Suspension NXT rapidly became a hit with backpackers, campers, and our Midwest tester. The NXT is versatile and packed with features and practical functionality. 

With 15 integrated tools—including pliers, a sharp fine-edge blade, a saw, screwdrivers, a can opener, and more—it offers a comprehensive solution for everyday repairs and light outdoor tasks. The stainless steel construction and solid build mean excellent durability, and ergonomics make it comfortable to use over extended periods.

One standout feature is the smooth one-handed deployment system for quick and effortless tool access. The pliers are strong and reliable, while the blade slices easily through light-duty materials. One gripe is that the blade isn’t the sharpest on the market. It is small and the serrated portion often gets stuck on things mid-cut. And we love the integrated pocket clip.

Overall, our tester found the Suspension NXT to be perfect for a range of quick jobs like repairing camp gear or tightening screws on a deck rail. While it offers great versatility, it’s a bit heavier and bulkier than minimalist multitools that focus on portability and simplicity.

For our full lineup and review of the best multitools, head to our multitool gear guide.

How We Tested

Our tester brought the NXT into the winter fray to see how it measured up to single-digit temperatures at a northern Wisconsin cabin. He tested the Gerber Suspension NXT with various tasks, including adjusting a chainsaw engine, reshaping a bent fence latch, and pulling an electrical cord for an outdoor heater.

Weight & Portability

At 6.7 ounces, the Suspension NXT is not ultralight territory, but this tool is impressively light for what’s inside. Clipped to a belt during a three-day backpacking trip through the Boundary Waters, our tester, I barely noticed the extra weight until needing the tool to adjust a camping stove’s fuel line.

The closed length is about 4.25 inches, which hits the sweet spot of being compact without feeling too small in your hand. Testers also appreciated how it rides comfortably on the hip without swinging around or getting in the way.

The pocket clip is sturdy enough for scrambling over fallen logs without worrying about losing it. All told, the Suspension offers a great balance of capability and portability for those who appreciate real tools.

Ease of Use

The NXT offers smooth and intuitive operation that highlights its thoughtful design and user-friendly functionality. We like the quick and responsive deployment that gives us access to tools without needing to unfold them fully. 

Each implement transitions smoothly, with minimal friction, and the tool locks into place securely with a satisfying click. The pliers and other components feel sturdy and reliable during use, showcasing Gerber’s attention to detail.

While not as refined as higher-end multi-tools in terms of silky-smooth action, the Suspension NXT maintains an efficient and professional-grade operation for its price point. 

The initial deployment is frictionless, and its quick-access features reduce unnecessary hand movement, making it great for fast fixes. Some users may find the action slightly stiffer when compared to premium tools, but this quickly improves.

Ergonomics

Considering its functionality and price, the Suspension NXT offers solid comfort and decent ergonomics. The handles’ contoured design sits naturally in the hand without causing discomfort or strain during extended use. 

Overall weight is balanced well, making the tool easy to use over long days. The cutaways on the surface add some extra grip.

While not the sleekest or most refined multi-tool in terms of ergonomics, it gets the job done without compromising on usability. Some users might find the handle design a little bulky compared to slimmer alternatives, particularly during prolonged use, but it’s generally comfortable for most tasks. The Suspension NXT feels stable in hand and is intuitive to manipulate, with its design focusing on versatility.

Tool Deployment

The NXT offers efficient tool deployment chops, with most tools accessible within 4-6 seconds, thanks to its quick, intuitive design. A mix of one-handed and two-handed deployment makes it versatile, though switching between tools may require a bit of deliberate repositioning, especially if you’re accessing different implements rapidly.

The pliers are a standout feature, deploying smoothly with a reliable spring mechanism, while other tools slide out easily with minimal resistance. The locking system provides confidence with each snap, ensuring stability during use. While the system isn’t the fastest compared to premium multi-tools, it gets the job done without much fuss.

The slight learning curve for switching between the tools is worth noting, but shouldn’t be a dealbreaker. This design prioritizes versatility and ease of use without being overly complicated.

Load Bearing Capacity

The NXT demonstrates solid load-bearing capabilities, especially given its versatile design. Its stainless steel construction provides reliable strength for light-to-moderate gripping and twisting tasks without showing noticeable flex or deformation under pressure.

The pliers can handle a fair amount of force, making them dependable for everything from tightening bolts to adjusting gear, with even pressure distribution across the handles.

While not designed for extreme heavy-duty use, the Suspension NXT holds up well under everyday demands, maintaining structural integrity even during rigorous chores over the long haul.

We appreciated the tool’s overall balance of durability and portability, without unneeded bulk, and its pliers and key implements handle torque effectively without compromising performance.

Material Quality

The Suspension NXT delivers impressive build quality at its price point. Our tester put this multi-tool through six months of abuse, including a creek dunking while setting up camp on the North Country Trail in Wisconsin, and the frame-lock construction remained rock solid with zero blade play.

The stainless steel components held up admirably despite exposure to morning dew, rain, and drops into mud. While clearing brush at a rural property, our tester used it non-stop for hours and reported no hand fatigue thanks to the comfortable grip. 

The black oxide coating shows some honest wear marks after extended use, but it adds character rather than just looking beat up. What impressed our team most was how the spring-loaded pliers maintained their tension even after work like repeatedly cutting through rusty wire fencing. This tool is built for the tough stuff and delivers.

Should You Buy the Gerber Suspension NXT?

We know that practical, versatile, and easy to carry are the calling cards of a reliable multitool. The Gerber Suspension NXT makes a strong case as a go-to option for budget-conscious users who still want enduring reliability. 

Designed for ease of use, this tool blends function with simplicity, offering the tools you need without overwhelming bulk. The NXT is a user favorite for a no-fuss, dependable tool.

What Other Multitools Should You Consider?

Head to our best multitools gear guide for more of our favorites. Below are some other comparable options to the Gerber Suspension NXT:

Leatherman Wave+ Review: The Wave+ is our top-rated multitool overall, offering 18 high-quality, locking tools including pliers, wire cutters, scissors, saw, and multiple screwdrivers. It’s more expensive than the Suspension NXT, but it’s a major upgrade in durability, versatility, and long-term value.

Gerber Armbar Drive Review: If you like the Suspension NXT’s affordability and want something even more compact, the Armbar Drive is a fantastic minimalist multitool. It packs a sharp blade, scissors, bit driver, pry bar, and bottle opener into a slim, pocket-friendly design. It’s ideal for those who want just the essentials in a lightweight package.

SOG PowerAccess Review: The SOG PowerAccess Deluxe is a feature-packed multitool at a similar price point to the Suspension NXT but offers 21 tools, including pliers, two blades, a saw, can and bottle openers, and multiple drivers, plus it comes with a bit kit and sheath. It’s a great choice if you want maximum functionality and value without breaking the bank.