The Gerber Savvy Knife: The Ultimate Cutting Tool for Your Everyday Carry Arsenal!

THE BLADE

The Gerber Savvy knife (both in Carbon Fiber and aluminum versions) features a utilitarian modified Wharncliffe blade shape that is 3.5 inches long with a 3.375-inch cutting edge. The blade has a medium flat grind that runs up about two-thirds of the height of the blade, transitioning into a broad flat near the spine to form the Wharncliffe shape. The blade's plunge line is diagonal with a radiused edge towards the pivot, and the sharpening choil is very short, leaving a tiny "beard" at the trailing edge of the blade. The blade stock is 0.125 inches thick, tapering down to 0.041 inches right behind the edge bevel. At its widest point, the blade measures 0.875 inches tall, giving it a long but narrow profile.

The blade steel on the Gerber Savvy knife is Crucible CPM-20CV, a modern powdered metallurgy supersteel that is similar in composition to Bohler M390 and Carpenter CTS-204p. CPM-20CV outperforms CPM S30V, which is commonly used in everyday carry (EDC) knives like the Sedulo, due to its higher carbon content, greater chromium content, high dose of vanadium, and inclusions of silicon and tungsten, all of which contribute to superior edge retention, corrosion resistance, and strength. CPM-20CV, along with 204p and M390, is considered to be one of the best steels for EDC knives today.

Deployment & Lockup

There are several notable features about the Gerber Savvy knife's deployment and lockup. One of the most prominent is the Pivot Lock mechanism, which functions similarly to Benchmade's AXIS lock. The Pivot Lock works by using a bar that is propelled by two springs to hold the blade closed and open. The bar-style lock has several advantages, including greater safety, ambidexterity, and fidgeting opportunities. The lockup on the Savvy is good, with minimal side-to-side play and no vertical play. Although side-to-side play is common on bar-lock knives, careful pivot tension adjustments can reduce it.

Deployment is achieved through a single-sided thumb stud that can be reversed for left-hand use. However, the hex fitting beneath the thumb stud is an odd size, and the pivot system uses phosphor bronze washers instead of ball bearings. While the knife is relatively smooth for a washer pivot knife, it doesn't match the fluidity of a bearing pivot knife like SOG's XR lock.

One issue with the knife is a clicking noise that occurs when the lock is opened, caused by the bar lock springs hitting the metal liner. The knife's pivot system is unique, but not perfect, with the washers being built into the blade itself making it easier to disassemble and adjust the pivot tension. Overall, the Gerber Savvy is a solid knife but, at a price point of $250, some users may prefer a knife with ball bearings for smoother deployment.

Features, Fit & Finish

While Gerber decided to forego ball bearings on the Savvy knife, they certainly didn't skimp on other features. The regular version of the knife has machined aluminum handles and weighs in at a lightweight 2.9 ounces, but the carbon fiber model boasts forged carbon fiber scales that provide a striking, lustrous appearance with a unique, random pattern. This also brings the weight down to a mere 2.4 ounces, making it one of the lightest folding knives with a 3.5" blade on the market. Additionally, the Savvy is part of Gerber's custom program, which allows users to personalize the knife to their liking with a variety of handle and hardware color options, blade finishes, and even custom laser etching. Although customization options can quickly add up, it's great to have the option available.

The carbon scales on the knife are very comfortable, with chamfered edges that make for a secure grip, and the metal liners are nestled inside. The construction of the knife is interesting, with the two rear standoffs screwed in place while the front one is pressed into the scales, and the center body screw passes through the scales to thread into the rear tang of the liner for stability. The pocket clip is an attractive bent steel clip secured by two vertical screws set in a channel to prevent rotation, with a blanking plate on the opposite side that can be swapped for right-hand carry. Although the knife is configured for right-hand tip-up carry from the factory, it can be switched to left-hand tip-up, but not tip-down due to the pivot lock. A deep carry clip would be a welcome addition.

The fit and finish on the Savvy are excellent, with the exception of the factory edge, which could benefit from another step with a higher grit belt for a smoother, more polished appearance. Despite this minor issue, the knife is well-built, with a centered blade when closed, flush screws, and liners that are flush with the scales at the bottom.

The branding on the knife is minimal, with a small Gerber shield behind the thumb stud, the steel type and serial number etched on the opposite side, and Gerber on the clip. This gives the knife a classy and understated look that garners compliments from those who take notice.

Field Test

The Gerber Savvy is a knife that excels in both carry and use. With its lightweight and slim profile, it disappears in your pocket and doesn't get in the way when you're on the go. Although it lacks a deep carry clip, the mounting base at the end of the knife helps in this regard. The modified Wharncliffe blade shape offers the benefits of both a drop point and acute tip for piercing, but it would be improved with a full flat grind. The handle is ergonomic with a forward finger guard and a flat spine for your thumb, and the lock and deployment are smooth and easy to use. However, servicing and maintaining the knife can be a bit challenging, as the 20CV steel requires diamond abrasives for proper sharpening, and disassembly requires caution due to the many small moving parts and springs.