What We’re Testing Now: A Super-Customizable Knife that Won’t Break the Bank
This article originally appeared on Backpacker
Backpackers are notoriously picky about their knives. Most don't need a particularly long blade, or specialty shapes like a bowie or tanto--and they certainly don't want it to take up space or weight in their pack when all they'll be doing is slicing cheddar and trimming guy lines. But they also want something that'll keep its edge over long trips, can be used for larger emergency tasks, and cleaned easily after a season in the backcountry. That's why Gerber's new Assert model (starting at $175) is so exciting: Coming in at just under 2 ounces, the 3-inch blade offers a functional length that doesn't sacrifice material quality or ergonomics and can be customized to a minute degree.
As a backcountry guide, the Assert has quickly become one of my all-time favorite knives. The 3-inch blade uses S30V stainless steel, often found in higher-end brands, like Benchmade, but for about $5-20 less depending on your options. I was able to cut alder branches to make marshmallow skewers and butcher a fresh moose kill without dulling the blade. Another tester cut emergency lines during a kayaking trip at Mallows Bay State Park in Maryland and used it for dinner, too. "It stayed sharp enough to cut up my evening steak afterwards," he noted.
Feature-wise, the Assert is packed: Its nooks and crannies are easy to clean out thanks to three removable barrel spacers. The textured, glass-filled nylon handle has a nice curved guard to it, which actually holds your pointer finger in place for purchase during harder tasks. An adjustable thumb stud moves up or down to match your finger length.
The Assert is also part of Gerber's new customization program. Online, you can cherry-pick the aesthetic and layout: There are six handle colors, three blade types, and multiple color options for hardware like clips, barrel spacers, thumbstuds, and lock caps, plus an option for a deep carry or standard pocket clip for an additional $10. For knife nerds, they also offer a "lasermark," which allows you to upload an image or text to etch a design in your blade for $10-25 extra. (My new Assert has an etched mountain scene on one side and the shape of Alaska on the other.) None of the etched images have worn off the blade, even after heavy use. Gerber's customizable program isn't unique, but the price point is a bit cheaper than some of its competitors, and there are several options for folders, fixed blades, and even a multitool.
For folks looking for a one-quiver blade that fits your particular hand perfectly, has all the bells and whistles you want and none you don’t, and utilizes high-end materials, the Assert's price point is hard to beat.
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