Salty Slicing: Gerber Controller Folding Fillet Knife Review

Leonard Schoenberger

You’ve landed the catch of the day, and now it’s time to work your magic on the filleting board.

That’s where the Gerber Controller steps in, not just as a tool but as a trusted companion, promising precision and finesse to elevate your filleting game. In this review we give you our take on this fish fillet knife.

What you get:

Folding Fillet Knife

Rubberized handle for extra grip

Saltwater safe

Handle length: 6″

Limited lifetime guarantee

Price: $50

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Design Crafted for Anglers

Gerber Folding Fillet Knife Review filleting fish
Filetting a freshly caught brook trout using the Gerber Controller Folding Fillet. Photo: Christian Anwander

The Gerber Controller isn’t just a piece of gear; it’s a well-thought-out companion for any angler. The folding design isn’t just for show – it adds a layer of convenience, making it a breeze to carry and ensuring safety during transport. The blade, crafted from high-quality stainless steel, isn’t just sharp; it’s your ticket to clean cuts and excellent edge retention in the face of harsh fishing conditions when dealing with saltwater species.

Now, let’s talk handles. The Controller’s got a rubberized grip that’s like a firm handshake – reliable and slip-free, even when things get a bit wet. Because, let’s face it, fishing isn’t always sunshine and clear skies.

A Filleting Maestro

Gerber Folding Fillet Knife Closeup
The Gerber Controller Folding Fillet knife allows for precise cuts. Photo: Christian Anwander

Performance is where the Controller truly shines. The folding mechanism? Smooth as silk, allowing for easy deployment when it’s time to get down to business. The blade’s flexibility? Just right. It gives you the finesse needed for precise filleting while keeping the backbone for efficient cutting.

From panfish to bass, and even those larger saltwater species, the Controller handles it all with ease. Clean cuts, minimal waste – it’s like having a sous chef on your filleting board.

Portability Made Easy

Gerber Fillet Knife Review
The Gerber Controller Folding is a great fillet knife to bring along on a trip. Photo: Christian Anwander

Anglers are a nomadic bunch, and your gear needs to keep up. The Controller’s folding design makes it a breeze to carry, and the secure locking mechanism ensures the blade stays put when you’re in action. Need a sharp edge? We found the Controller to retain a sharp blade for a long time. Every once in a while it needs a brush-up (like any other filet knife in the game).

Strengths and Weaknesses

Filleting a trout with the Gerber folding fillet knife
The Gerber Controller Folding Fillet is an excellent choice if you’re often filleting species such as trout but can also take on saltwater species. Photo: Leonard Schoenberger

Strengths

Quality Blade: Stainless steel for corrosion resistance and edge retention.

Secure Grip: Rubberized handle for a reliable, slip-free hold.

Convenient Folding Design: Easy to carry and ensures safety during transport.

Versatile Performance: From panfish to saltwater giants, it’s got you covered.

Warranty: Gerber offers an excellent limited lifetime guarantee.

Weaknesses

This knife is an allrounder. Its natural habitat is the campfire where a quick and precise cut is needed (the Opinel Slim is another great option). Sure, it will work in any kitchen as well but its looks can’t compete with competitors like the Zwilling Pro for example.

Gerber Controller Folding Fillet Knife
The Gerber Folding Fish Fillet Knife in action. Photo: Christian Anwander

Final Verdict

If you’re going for the Gerber Folding Controller you’ll get excellent value for money. A folding knife with a very grippy handle and a flexible blade that can take on trout and stripers alike. All of this for $50 and a great warranty on top – hard to argue with that package.

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FAQs: Gerber Controller Folding Fillet

Can the Gerber Controller Folding Fillet Knife handle the saltwater environment?

Absolutely. Its stainless steel construction and corrosion-resistant design make it a solid choice for saltwater fishing.

Is it up to the task of filleting larger saltwater species like tuna or mahi-mahi?

Yes, the Controller Folding Fillet Knife is versatile enough to handle the big boys of the saltwater world.

How often should I sharpen the blade, and does the built-in sharpener do the job?

Sharpening frequency depends on usage, but the built-in sharpener is your go-to for maintaining that keen edge.

Is the folding mechanism sturdy, and does the blade lock securely?

You bet. The folding mechanism is built to last, and the secure locking ensures safety during filleting sessions.

How does the rubberized handle perform when it’s wet and slippery?

The rubberized handle is designed to give you a secure grip even in wet conditions, ensuring control and confidence.