James wrote in asking for a recommendation for a pocket-friendly tool or utility knife to help with opening 1-2 boxes a day. Our recommendation? The Gerber EAB or EAB Lite.
Gerber’s EAB and EAB Lite tools are about as no-frills as they come. They accept standard utility knife blades and fold up into a compact and lightweight package. There’s also the Gerber Artifact, but it may be a bit too pointy for some pockets to withstand.
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The EAB Lite is a newer version of the EAB, and both are priced at ~$11-15.
Gerber EAB Knife via Amazon
Gerber EAB Lite Knife
Gerber Artifact Knife (features an Exacto-style hobby blade)
Product Details via Gerber
Thanks James, for the great question!
Clayton
Be careful though, I have an EAB, the little screw stripped kind of easily when applying the torque required to securely hold the blade. I once had the blade kind of jump off of the little guard and almost cut the finger holding it. I haven’t really trusted it since. However, looking at these pictures and of the current EAB on Amazon, I believe they might have slightly altered the design. Most notably, they both seem to have flat head screws (mine came with a small phillips), which may be a little harder to strip and easier to find something to turn the screw (like a penny shown in an Amazon pic). The EAB lite also has a much larger channel for the blade to set in which would probably prevent it from jumping out.
jeff_williams
I can’t comment on the gerbers specifically but can add to the handiness of having a pocket knife that uses utility knife blades. I got the Milwaukee fast back for Christmas and it has been indispensable. Every day I find a need for it and I won’t be without one again.
Stuart
Clayton, thanks for the safety tip! I know that the EAB was recalled at least once for not having a blade guard, but that was a few years back.
Given your experience and recommendation, I would agree that the “lite” version might be a better or safer choice. I would have to see both current versions in person to be sure.
Jeff, the Milwaukee FastBack seems to have been a strong seller this winter, and thus far reviews look to be pretty positive.
James
Hey, this is the original question asker. Thanks again stuart for the recommendation. I already ordered my piece and i’ll let you guys know how it looks.
JawPaul
I have many different razor knives and the EAB Lite has been my current everyday carry since I bought it.
I always carry a full size multitool on me but since switching to the SOG Powerlock over my Leatherman New Wave I have found the need to carry a quick access blade (since the SOG has to be opened to deploy the blade)
The EAB Lite is thin, solidly built, comfortable to use, and decent looking to carry at my job. The only play in the blade is from the flex of the knife itself which is very minimal, and multitudes better than any sliders. One of favorite aspects is that about 2/3rds of the blade is exposed as the cutting edge as compared to maybe 50% on some sliders. Blade change is not toolless but fairly quick with a flathead. I haven’t had any issue with the blade popping out or the screw stripping. I did pop the clip off once however. The clip does hold itself secure on a belt or pocket, and the liner lock is robust and easy to disengage. The finish on my model wasn’t up to par I thought (poor casting/rough finish on the backside of the pivot. After 6 months or so the finish is starting to look slightly worn.
Gerber should upgrade the finish and machining and then I would rather pay $20 for one.
Andrew Fox
I absolutely love mine! I use it as a money clip.