Tough tools for tough environments

Brian M Walters

Wednesday, 9 September, 2009

Founded in 1939, Gerber Legendary Blades is a US company widely respected as a global leader in the development of high-grade, innovative military gear including knives, tools, lights, accessories, packs and hydration.

On Stand 1248, it is showcasing what it claims is one of the brightest and most robust lights on the market (pictured right). With a length of less than 5.5in and waterproof to a depth of 3m, this is an ultrahigh output energy-efficient white LED, which produces in excess of 100 lumens for more than 60 minutes non-stop. Its large tail cap button is perfect for momentary use and signalling and is easy to use while wearing gloves. The rugged lightweight aircraft grade aluminium body with Type III hard-anodised black coating has a reversible universal clip, is attachable to MOLLE webbing and is paracord adaptable.

Also featured here is the LMFII rugged, versatile survival tool (top). This knife has been tested in the field and has been shown to be as adaptable as those who carry it. To aid survival after a crashlanding, it can be used to cut through the skin of an aircraft fuselage, and sever a seatbelt. It can also cut firewood, be used to help build a shelter or even be lashed to a pole to create a spear.

An important aspect of the design is the knife butt cap, which is able to break through a quarter-inch helicopter Plexiglas. The butt cap has high shock absorption when used as a hammer and has been constructed so that electrically, it is isolated from the blade. The over-moulded TPU glass-filled nylon handle also successfully limits blistering.