This Beloved Gerber Multi-Tool Ditched Its Namesake Feature, and Got Even Better

The well-known American EDC brand remixes one of its most popular camping-focused tools into a compact everyday essential.

Close-up of a folded black Gerber multi-tool against a blue background.

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By Hayley Helms

Published March 3, 2026

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Updated March 5, 2026

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Multi-tools promise endless utility, but when they’re not built for everyday use, they can quickly turn into specialized, expensive accessories that rarely see the light of day — the opposite of their original intention.

Known for its accessible, wallet-friendly multi-tools and knives, Gerber leans into practicality by reworking one of its outdoor-focused designs into a versatile option worthy of a permanent spot in your EDC loadout. Meet the new Stakeout Drive.

Black Gerber multi-tool with carabiner clip folded against a blue background. — The new multi-tool measures just 4.6 inches long closed and includes 10 tools for everyday utility.

Everyday hero

The original Stakeout made its debut in 2022 as an outdoor-ready multi-tool, and in the years since, Gerber has released multiple iterations of the instrument.

The latest rendition borrows from both the Stakeout and Drive models already in the Gerber lineup.

Black Gerber multi-tool with pliers, scissors, knife blade, and carabiner clip on a blue background. — Needlenose and standard pliers can both be found on the tool, along with several other DIY essentials.

Toward that end, it features not only the classic folding multi-plier chassis but also the carabiner clip from the Stakeout Spark and a flip bit driver, justifying the addition of “Drive” to its nameplate.

The main attraction in the new design, the driver is ideal for repairing gear or tackling small projects around the house.

Black Gerber multi-tool with scissors, knife blade, file, and carabiner clip on blue background. — There are two carry options built into the Stakeout Drive: the pocket clip and the integrated carabiner clip that doubles as a bottle opener.

Along with the new driver, which has an extra storage slot in the handle for another bit, the Stakeout Drive packs two kinds of pliers, a three-grit file/chisel, wire cutter, 2.4-inch plain-edge blade with a liner lock.

Ironically, the hybridized tool does not include its namesake feature, the tent stake pulling hook.

Though Gerber makes no mention of it in the product description, I wonder if the carabiner clip — which doubles as a bottle opener — could serve a similar purpose.

Black folded multitool with a clip and ruler markings on a blue background. — The Stakeout Drive even features a ruler, marked on the handle’s edge.

The multi-tool complements the carabiner with another carry option in the form of a deep-carry pocket clip.

At 7.4 ounces, with an open length of 6.3 inches and a closed length of 4.6 inches, the Stakeout Drive is a lightweight, pocketable tool with tons of utility packed into its small size.

Thanks to the addition of its new flip-bit driver, this durable, easy to carry multi-tool is now far better suited to everyday tasks.

Availability and pricing

The Stakeout Drive is available now in Black and Silver on Gerber’s website, retailing for $80.

Black multi-tool pliers with a built-in screwdriver bit and carabiner clip.

Gerber Stakeout Drive

$80 at Gerber
$60 at REI

$80 (25% off)

About the Author: Hayley Helms is an associate editor at Gear Patrol specializing in outdoor gear. Once upon a time, she wrote for Men’s Journal, Gearjunkie and Shape. Whether it’s testing a new rain shell or putting a pair of hiking boots through its paces, she leaves no stone unturned (however, she always Leaves No Trace).

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