Gerber 06430 Chameleon III Large Fine Edge

by Gerber

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

Even though it resembles one, this is not a combination eyepiece/knife. Gerber has come up with with an open pivot design that allows you to grip this knife comfortably and securely, with an ergonomic hold that reflects the natural position of your hand. WIth your forefinger securely nestled in the cavity, the possibility of slippage or loss of knife is diminished. This unique design also allows the size of the knife to stay relatively small without compromising the comfort or grip. The smooth and easy opening is made possible because the blade rotates along the circumference of the pivot point, and once opened it stays locked in position until manually closed. 8.579 inches open. 5.156 inches closed.

Product Details

• Shipping Weight: 4.8 ounces
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• ASIN: B00004WA52
• Item model number: 06430
• Average Customer Review: 3.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #280,810 in Home Improvement (See Top 100 in Home Improvement)
• Discontinued by manufacturer: Yes

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

24 of 26 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Sweet blade, but the action is a bit tight., April 5, 2001

By 

Michael (merrillville, in United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Gerber 06430 Chameleon III Large Fine Edge (Tools & Home Improvement)

I own 2 of these, one serrated, one fine edge. I prefer the fine edge for ease of maintenance. The large finger hole provides for an ultra secure grip, the knife is extremely well fit to my hand, and i love the balance.

Unfortunately, the "one handed opening" doesn't work very well, on both of the ChameleonIII's I own, the action is quite stiff. I suspect that this is largely due to the sheer surface area of the blade pivot. causing the chameleon's biggest reccomendation, to also produce my biggest problem with them.

I love Gerber blades, they are always made of damned good steel, and always come with the best factory edge I have seen in my price range. But, I am still undecided about the balance of the extra safety vs. impeded opening on the ones i own. The stiff action makes little difference in daily use, but when i have a "one hand open" blade, i want to be able to open it quick enough to be mistaken for a switch blade, (which i can and have had happen with both a gerber EZout and a Buck Liner lock) instead of having to fiddle with it.