The Gerber Infinity Ultra Task is a handy pocket-sized LED torch.

Previously I reviewed the earlier version of the Gerber Infinity Ultra Task light.  While a very handy little utility light, the torch suffers from a few obvious deficiencies.  Its pocket clip is too small and too easily removed, while the light itself lacks a proper tailcap switch.  Still, it us a small and useful pocket lamp and I have carried my original Infinity Ultra Task many times when it came in handy.

I've noticed Gerber making real strides lately to compete in today's knife industry, improving or dropping some models that just didn't quite make the grade.  I have no vested interest in Gerber's improvement because, to date, the company and I have no working relationship.  They've never sent me a sample for review, so all of the Gerbers I have came to me as gifts from relatives or were purchased by me directly.

The improved version of the Infinity Ultra Task is evidence of the Portland, Oregon-based knifemakers' apparent commitment to getting better and staying relevant.  O-ring sealed and waterproof to 10 feet, with epoxy-coated circuitry and an anodized aluminum housing, the little light is visible to 30 feet and contains a lifetime Light Emitting Diode (LED) bulb.  It runs on a single AA battery, which yields a run time of "up to 100 hours."  The torch is about three and a half inches long and only three fourths of an inch in diameter.

The Ultra Task (right) compares well to a Mini Maglite equipped with an LED kit.

The first thing I noticed about the new Ultra Task is the vastly improved pocket clip, which is larger, mounted more permanently, and provides good tension.  The second most noticeable feature is the new tailcap assembly, which can be turned to provide always-on illumination.  Shaped like a truncated cone, the tailcap can be pressed for momentary-on illumination when snugged down to the just the right distance from the body.  It has a lanyard hole bored through it.

My sample is coated or painted a flat black and exhibits very good fit and finish.  Grooves on the tailcap and on the head of the light provide decent traction, though the light is so small that it's not going to be of much use for anything but utility lighting.  I believe this model is also brighter than the original, though I have no quantitative figures with which to compare the two.

As an afterthought, I tried to shake the light.  The battery no longer rattles inside the torch body, which is a relief.  The rattling battery was one of my major disappointments in the original Ultra Task.

If you need a keychain- or pocket-sized light and you (like me) favor LED torches, the original Ultra Task is a good choice.  The LED is a "lifetime bulb" and the power source is common and inexpensive.  Rugged enough to endure daily carry amongst other pocket accessories, the Ultra Task should serve you well.   The improved Ultra Task, however, does everything the original can do and does it better.  The low price of the torch remains the same.

It's hard not to want to reward a company for making such positive changes.