Let’s Dive into Gerber Highbrow Assisted Opening Folding Knife
The Gerber Highbrow Assisted Opening Folding Knife aims to be that refined yet practical tool you carry every day. Gerber, a name synonymous with quality outdoor gear, presents this knife as an elegant addition to your routine. The promise of a slender shape, smooth lines, and durable materials makes it intriguing.
I needed a reliable everyday carry (EDC) knife that wouldn’t feel bulky in my pocket but could still handle a variety of tasks. I was looking for something with a quick deployment mechanism and a secure locking system, and the Gerber Highbrow seemed to fit the bill.
Unboxing the Highbrow, I immediately noticed its slim profile and lightweight feel. The anodized aluminum handle felt smooth and comfortable in hand. The assisted opening mechanism snapped the blade open with satisfying speed.
I was considering the Kershaw Leek and the CRKT Pilar before settling on the Gerber Highbrow. The Leek felt too small for my liking, and the Pilar lacked the assisted opening feature I desired. The Highbrow offered a good balance of size, features, and aesthetics.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The knife looked great and felt good in hand, but I was eager to test its performance in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Gerber Highbrow Assisted Opening Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Gerber Highbrow Assisted Opening Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip. I used it for various tasks, including food preparation, cutting rope, and whittling small pieces of wood for kindling. The assisted opening made it easy to deploy the blade with one hand, even when my other hand was occupied.
The Gerber Highbrow performed adequately in dry conditions, but the serrated blade struggled slightly when cutting through damp rope. The anodized aluminum handle offered a secure grip, even with slightly wet hands. However, I wished for a more aggressive texture.
The assisted opening was initially a bit stiff, but it smoothed out after a few uses. The pivot lock was easy to engage and disengage with either hand. There were no immediate issues or surprises after the first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of occasional use, the Gerber Highbrow has held up reasonably well. The blade remains sharp, and the assisted opening mechanism still functions reliably. However, there are some minor signs of wear and tear on the anodized aluminum handle.
The Gerber Highbrow has shown some scratches and minor dings. Regular cleaning and oiling of the blade have helped to prevent corrosion. Overall, the Highbrow has met my expectations for a mid-range EDC knife, but it hasn’t exceeded them.
Breaking Down the Features of Gerber Highbrow Assisted Opening Folding Knife
Specifications
The Gerber Highbrow Assisted Opening Folding Knife features a 2.8-inch blade made of 7Cr17MoV stainless steel. It has a drop point blade shape and a partially serrated edge. The knife has an overall length of 7.9 inches and weighs 5.97 ounces.
The handle is made of anodized aluminum and comes in an onyx color. Other features include a pivot lock, a slide lock safety, assisted opening, a right or left carry pocket clip, and a lanyard hole. These specifications are important for a few reasons. The 7Cr17MoV steel offers a decent balance of hardness and corrosion resistance. The assisted opening and pivot lock provide quick and secure blade deployment.
Performance & Functionality
The Gerber Highbrow Assisted Opening Folding Knife performs adequately for most everyday cutting tasks. The assisted opening is quick and reliable. The pivot lock feels secure in use.
The blade could be sharper out of the box. The serrated edge is useful for cutting rope and other fibrous materials, but it can snag when slicing softer items. The Highbrow generally meets expectations for an EDC knife at this price point, but it doesn’t excel in any particular area.
Design & Ergonomics
The Gerber Highbrow Assisted Opening Folding Knife has a slim and lightweight design that makes it comfortable to carry. The anodized aluminum handle feels smooth and ergonomic in hand. The pocket clip allows for convenient right or left-side carry.
The knife is relatively user-friendly, although some users may need a little practice to become comfortable with the pivot lock. The slide lock safety adds an extra layer of security. There is minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Gerber Highbrow Assisted Opening Folding Knife is reasonably durable for its price point, but it’s not designed for heavy-duty use. The 7Cr17MoV steel blade is resistant to corrosion, but it may require occasional sharpening. The anodized aluminum handle can scratch and dent with use.
The Gerber Highbrow is relatively easy to maintain. Regular cleaning and oiling of the blade will help to keep it in good working condition. The pivot lock and assisted opening mechanism may require occasional lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Gerber Highbrow Assisted Opening Folding Knife comes with a right or left-side carry pocket clip. There are no other included accessories. Customization options are limited.
You might be able to replace the pocket clip with an aftermarket option. It is unlikely that you will be able to easily replace or change the blade or handle scales. The Gerber Highbrow is not really intended to be extensively customized.
Pros and Cons of Gerber Highbrow Assisted Opening Folding Knife
Pros
- Sleek and lightweight design makes it easy to carry.
- Assisted opening provides quick and convenient blade deployment.
- Pivot lock offers a secure and reliable blade lockup.
- Ambidextrous design suits both right- and left-handed users.
- Affordable price makes it an accessible EDC option.
Cons
- 7Cr17MoV steel blade may not hold an edge as well as higher-end steels.
- Anodized aluminum handle is prone to scratching and wear.
- Serrated edge can be less versatile than a plain edge for some tasks.
Who Should Buy Gerber Highbrow Assisted Opening Folding Knife?
The Gerber Highbrow Assisted Opening Folding Knife is perfect for:
- Everyday carry (EDC) enthusiasts looking for a slim and lightweight knife.
- Casual users who need a reliable tool for basic cutting tasks.
- Office workers who need a discreet and professional-looking knife.
- Hikers and campers who need a backup knife for light tasks.
Who should skip this product? People who need a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks. Those who prefer premium blade steels and more durable handle materials.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality sharpening stone or steel to maintain the blade’s edge. Possibly a higher-quality pocket clip.
Conclusion on Gerber Highbrow Assisted Opening Folding Knife
The Gerber Highbrow Assisted Opening Folding Knife is a decent EDC option for those seeking a slim, lightweight, and affordable knife. Its assisted opening and pivot lock provide quick and secure blade deployment. However, its 7Cr17MoV steel blade and anodized aluminum handle are not as durable as higher-end alternatives.
The price is generally justified for what you get. I would personally recommend it to casual users who need a reliable knife for basic cutting tasks.
For those seeking a more robust and durable EDC knife, it may be worth considering spending a bit more. If you’re looking for a solid, reliable, and affordable EDC option, the Gerber Highbrow Assisted Opening Folding Knife is a good choice to consider.