Gerber Lst – Urban Blue Review

What Makes Gerber Lst – Urban Blue Stand Out?

The Gerber Lst – Urban Blue is Gerber’s modern take on a classic pocket knife, promising to deliver the same light, smooth, and tough experience as the original LST that revolutionized the everyday carry market in the 1980s. It aims to combine that heritage with modern upgrades like a removable pocket clip, making it an appealing option for those seeking a simple, reliable, and discreet everyday tool. It’s a straightforward pocket knife designed for daily tasks. The Gerber Lst – Urban Blue offers both nostalgia and contemporary convenience in a compact package.

My search for a new EDC knife was driven by a need for something lightweight and unobtrusive that I could comfortably carry in my pocket without adding bulk. I was seeking a blade that could handle everyday tasks with ease, from opening packages to cutting cordage, all while being durable and reliable. A knife that was low-profile, but built to last was key.

Upon unboxing the Gerber Lst – Urban Blue, my first impression was how incredibly lightweight it felt. The build quality seemed solid for a knife in its price range, the materials appearing to be durable. Its compact size and simple design were exactly what I was looking for in an EDC knife.

While considering options, I compared the Gerber Lst – Urban Blue with the CRKT Drifter and the Kershaw Cryo. The Drifter was a strong contender with its minimalist design, but the Gerber Lst – Urban Blue’s slim profile ultimately won me over. The Kershaw Cryo, while robust, felt too heavy and bulky for my desired EDC.

Initially, I was pleasantly surprised by the Gerber Lst – Urban Blue. It was precisely what I expected – a no-frills, practical knife that wouldn’t weigh me down. The color, “Urban Blue”, was also a nice touch. It wasn’t flashy but still gave the knife some personality.


Real-World Testing: Putting Gerber Lst – Urban Blue to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Gerber Lst – Urban Blue during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for various tasks, including preparing kindling for a fire, cutting rope for setting up the tent, and opening food packages. It performed admirably in all situations.

The weather was mild, but the environment was quite dusty. The knife’s action remained smooth, and the blade held its edge well. I found the knife to be incredibly easy to use. No learning curve was involved.

After the first use, I was satisfied with the Gerber Lst – Urban Blue’s performance. The only minor issue was that the lockback mechanism felt a bit stiff initially, but it loosened up after repeated use. The stiffness didn’t impact the knife’s functionality.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Gerber Lst – Urban Blue has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I’ve carried it daily, using it for everything from opening mail to more demanding tasks like cutting through thick cardboard. It has held up surprisingly well.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear, mostly minor scratches on the blade and handle. The lockback mechanism is now smooth and reliable, and the blade remains sharp after occasional touch-ups with a honing steel. Cleaning is also a breeze.

Compared to my previous EDC knife, a Benchmade Griptilian, the Gerber Lst – Urban Blue doesn’t offer the same level of robustness. However, its lightweight and slim profile makes it far more comfortable for everyday carry. It outperforms the Griptilian in situations where discretion and portability are paramount.

Breaking Down the Features of Gerber Lst – Urban Blue

Specifications

  • The Gerber Lst – Urban Blue features a straightforward, lockback design. This ensures safe and reliable blade deployment and closure.
  • The blade is made of high carbon stainless steel. This provides a good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
  • The knife has a removable pocket clip. This enhances everyday carry convenience.
  • The handle is constructed from durable molded plastic. This helps keep the knife lightweight.
  • The Gerber Lst – Urban Blue has a listed price of $31.99. This makes it an accessible option for budget-conscious buyers.

These specifications are vital for the Gerber Lst – Urban Blue’s overall performance. The steel blade and lockback design enhance durability and safety. The removable clip makes it an easily accessible EDC knife.

Performance & Functionality

The Gerber Lst – Urban Blue performs its intended job exceptionally well. It’s a reliable and easy-to-use everyday carry knife. It is perfect for simple cutting tasks.

The knife’s strengths lie in its lightweight design, slim profile, and ease of use. The lockback mechanism is secure, but could benefit from slightly smoother action out of the box. It meets expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Gerber Lst – Urban Blue is excellent for its price point. The materials feel durable, and the knife is comfortable to hold. The handle provides a decent grip, even in wet conditions.

The knife is incredibly user-friendly, with no learning curve involved. The lockback mechanism is easy to operate with one hand. Even someone new to pocket knives would be able to use it without difficulty.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction and materials, the Gerber Lst – Urban Blue should last for years with proper care. The stainless-steel blade is resistant to corrosion, and the handle is made from durable plastic. It should withstand everyday wear and tear.

The Gerber Lst – Urban Blue is easy to maintain and repair. Cleaning requires only a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the pivot point. The lockback mechanism is simple and robust, minimizing the risk of failure.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Gerber Lst – Urban Blue comes with a removable pocket clip. There are no other included accessories. Customization options are limited due to the knife’s simple design.

The pocket clip can be repositioned for tip-up or tip-down carry. Aftermarket customization is limited, but paracord lanyards can be easily added through the lanyard hole. The knife’s basic design focuses more on practicality than extensive customization.

Pros and Cons of Gerber Lst – Urban Blue

Pros

  • Lightweight and Slim Profile: Extremely comfortable for everyday carry without adding bulk.
  • Durable Construction: High carbon stainless steel blade and robust handle materials ensure longevity.
  • Removable Pocket Clip: Offers convenient and secure carry options.
  • Easy to Use: Simple lockback mechanism and ergonomic design make it user-friendly for all.
  • Affordable Price: Excellent value for money, making it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.

Cons

  • Limited Customization: Few aftermarket accessories or modification options are available.
  • Basic Design: May not appeal to users looking for advanced features or a more tactical aesthetic.


Who Should Buy Gerber Lst – Urban Blue?

The Gerber Lst – Urban Blue is perfect for anyone looking for a simple, reliable, and affordable everyday carry knife. It’s ideal for casual campers, hikers, and anyone needing a basic cutting tool for daily tasks. It’s also a great option for those who prefer a lightweight and discreet knife that won’t weigh them down.

This product should be skipped by individuals looking for a tactical knife with advanced features or those who require a heavy-duty blade for demanding tasks. Those desiring extensive customization options should look elsewhere. This knife prioritizes simplicity and practicality over advanced functionality.

A must-have modification would be adding a paracord lanyard. It will improve grip and accessibility. Regular sharpening with a honing steel is also recommended.

Conclusion on Gerber Lst – Urban Blue

The Gerber Lst – Urban Blue is a solid and reliable everyday carry knife that offers excellent value for its price. Its lightweight design, durable construction, and ease of use make it a practical choice for a wide range of users. While it lacks some of the advanced features found in more expensive knives, its simplicity is its strength.

The price is certainly justified. It delivers excellent functionality and durability. It stands to be a strong value proposition.

I would personally recommend the Gerber Lst – Urban Blue to anyone seeking a no-frills, dependable EDC knife. It’s a great option for those who appreciate a classic design with modern conveniences. Pick up a Gerber Lst – Urban Blue today and experience the reliability and simplicity it brings to your everyday carry.

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