After months of testing and evaluation, we recently published an updated version of our guide to the best multi-tools available. Our list includes one significant change in that our new Editor’s Pick is Leatherman’s Free P2, which unseated Gerber’s Center-Drive. Both tools rank highly because they’re incredibly easy to use with one hand, making them practical for a wide variety of jobs and tasks, but the Free P2 edged out the Center-Drive because each one of its tools deploys with one hand, not just the pliers.
But the Center-Drive is a close second and maintains advantages over the Free P2 in other ways. Instead of packing as many implements as possible into a pocketable form, Gerber researched which of them see the most use and gave them more space in the Center-Drive. The best example is the screwdriver; it’s bigger than any other multi-tool driver available, swinging out from its handle like a knife blade rather than a mini can opener, and Gerber angled it inwards to center its point of rotation in the tool.
The newest iteration of the Center-Drive, the Center-Drive Plus, comes equipped with scissors and a premium leather sheath. It’s 21 percent off at The Drop right now, bringing its price down to $100.
Gear Patrol also recommends:
Victorinox MiniChamp ($39)
SOG Baton Q3 ($60)
Leatherman Free P2 ($120)
More Deals, Served Up Fresh Every Day
Gear Patrol