Tool Reviews: Gerber Shard

Key Features:
 +   Many useful functions
 +   Compact

 -    Can poke you from your pocket


The number of rigid, single-piece multi tools on the market (like the Leatherman Brewzer and the Screwpop Pocket Wrench) seems to be growing, with many variations.  One such multi tool is the Gerber Shard (model #22-01769) which offers about as much functionality as the others, for a much lower price.

The Gerber Shard is a very small multi tool, smaller than I thought it would be.  It measures 2.75" long and 1" wide at its widest point -- about the size of a standard key.  It barely weighs anything, and it has a large hole so you can carry it on your key ring for easy access.

This multi tool packs a lot of functionality into a tiny frame.  Some of its many uses include pry bar, bottle opener, box cutter, cross-tip screwdriver, and slotted screwdriver (two different sizes).  Gerber claims it can also be used as a wire stripper, but I haven't tried that yet.

As a slotted/flathead driver, it works pretty well.  The large and small drivers are right next to each other, however, so it isn't much use for a recessed screw.  For a screw that's flush, the Shard loosens and tightens fairly well.

The cross driver, on the other hand, is not very functional.  It barely turns some screws, and won't do much except strip out the heads on other ones.  If turning Phillips screws is a deal breaker for you, then look for another multi tool instead of this one -- such as the CRKT Get-A-Way Driver.

The cross tip may not be very good for turning screws, but it works great for cutting tape on boxes and packages.  The tip is sharp, so if you keep the Shard in your pocket, be careful when reaching for it.

As a bottle opener, the Shard works, but if you're buying it mainly to use as a bottle opener, I would look for something else.  (The CRKT Get-A-Way Driver has a much better bottle opener.)  The Shard's small size makes it hard to grip and get leverage, and you have to be very careful how you hold it, otherwise you'll end up poking a hole in your hand with the sharp cross tip.

The pry bar is a handy feature, and is surprisingly strong for such a small tool.  If using it for large nails on a long flat surface, it probably won't be much help, but for smaller nails (or other objects) when you have room to get leverage, it works great.

The Gerber Shard is a handy pocket multi tool.  It would make a great gift for a DIYer, professional repairman, or technician.  It takes up hardly any pocket space, doesn't weigh anything, and puts several useful tools at your fingertips.  Amazon.com currently sells the Shard for $5.99, which is a good price for what you get -- far cheaper than other comparable tools.