For a lot of years, people have identified any type of knife as a “Swiss Army Knife.” SAKs were made by two companies (Wenger SA and Victorinox AG) in the early 1890s, who mixed their ability in 2005 to dominant the Swiss Army Knife industry. They’re perfectly constructed pieces to deal with everyday tasks and they are the best EDC items for any pocket.
In the case of selecting among the top of the Swiss Army knives, we only chose those products that came directly from the primary source. Each selection is made with slight variations, but they will be able to trace back to the original design of the 1890s Knife that was created for the members of the Swiss defense forces, and they are manufactured by the company that started the whole job. If you are ready for the real deal.
Which knife from the Swiss Army is best?
Victorinox made the Swiss Army knife which is a multitool pocketknife. It is particularly useful because it features multiple blades and tools, such as can openers, scissors, screwdrivers and much more, while being relatively lightweight and compact. It is now widely used to refer to any object or idea with multiple uses or applications, because it has become such an icon.
The Victorinox Swiss Army Classic SD pocket knife is our top choice. The model most people are familiar with has only essential tools and is small enough to fit on a keyring.
There are things to know before buying a Swiss Army knife
Variations
Smaller Swiss Army knives are the most popular, but Victorinox also sells larger tools with more utility. Some may feature additional blades, tools such as a screwdriver or a wine corkscrew, and some are better suited for hunting or camping. Almost 9 inches wide, the Swiss Army Giant Knife is made from 87 implements and 141 functions.
Victorinox is an official manufacturer of Swiss Army knives. The original Swiss army knife is produced by Victorinox. Karl Elsene, a Swiss knife maker for the Swiss Army, started the company in 1884. Victorinox was one of the companies that made Swiss Army knives after the Swiss government split the contract between them in 1908.
Sharpening and care are needed
Swiss Army knives are made from high-quality steel, so you should care for it properly to make sure it lasts a long time. To make it sharper, use a whetstone at a 15-20 degree angle. If you want to add oil to the locking mechanism, you need to clean it with warm water. Don’t clean the Swiss Army knife in the dishwasher.
What to look for in a Swiss Army knife.
Versatility
The applications for which you will be using your Swiss Army knife should be considered. Each model has a variety of different tools, from a sewing awl to a screwdriver. Determine which of these tools are most likely to be used.
Compact profile
You can put the Swiss Army knife in your pocket, attach it to your keys, or throw it in a purse. Even the most popular commercial versions are still portable, even though the bigger and heavier tools are included. It is possible to stay on the lighter side if you don’t need a lot of different tools.
Durability
Swiss Army knives tend to be made in a way that they last several years of wear and tear without losing their functions. The knife should work as you expect, even if you drop it multiple times. The scales used to hold the blades and tools are made of plastic, which is likely to oxidize over time.
Victorinox quality
The quality support of the original Victorinox knife is incomparable. Each knife comes with a lifetime guarantee against defects and a money-back guarantee.
How much will it cost to buy a Swiss Army knife
The most basic Swiss Army knife costs about $16 and has just the essential tools and a slim profile. Heavy-duty tools, such as pliers or ratchets, can be found in the most expensive tools, which can cost up to $200.
Swiss Army Knife FAQ
How sharp is the Swiss knife?
Ans: The simple knife can cut paper or fruit with ease with proper care and sharpening. Bigger multitools come with bigger, sharper knives that can be used on a hunting trip.
Can you bring it with you on a plane?
Ans: The Swiss Army knife and similar pocketknives were banned after 9/11, but policy changes such as by the FAA allow small knives on commercial planes. This does not apply to tactical knives.
Let’s Check Out The Top 15 Best Swiss Army knife to buy
Top Swiss Army knife
1. Victorinox Classic Swiss Army SD Knife
As its boldly printed casing has made this product looks like a toy, don’t let the appearance fool you. This knife is made with the same materials and craftsmanship as like as most Victorinox knives.
It features a small blade, a 2.5-mm screwdriver, a nail file, a toothpick, tweezers, and scissors. With the small size, you will be able to stash it in your pocket easily without feeling like you’re carrying something. It also contains a keyring, which allows you to keep this little guy in a place inside your backpack or belt loop.
The main blade is smooth and short, yet versatile and functional enough to make it a go. It’s great for use on a daily basis, such as opening packages, sharpening pencils, or removing some dirt off your shoe.
Its handle features a different variety of colors. With its collider scales, the knife contains a smooth finish which makes it convenient to clean and polish. You can easily expect this knife to last for a long duration of time, even after using it on a daily basis. Same as the other Victorinox knife, this product comes with lifetime materials and a workmanship warranty.
Ultimately, this is an ideal knife for everyday carry, and gear for most household and office work. It’s also highly affordable, making it a great beginner product for adults who usually don’t carry a knife. Even though it does not contains as many tools as other models, yet there are multiple good reasons behind its popularity for decades.
Key Features
- This knife is comparatively smaller than other models and can easily be fitted on a keychain.
- Its blade holds the edges consistently and can be easily resharpened when it becomes dull.
- The main tools have well-placed small indentations so that you may pull them off smoothly with applying just a little pressure.
2. Victorinox Swiss Army Multi-Tool, SwissChamp Pocket Knife
This knife takes the multi-tool idea to an extremely high level. Apart from being one of the largest and finest military knives available on the market. The knife is also among the thickest knives. This is not surprising at all, considering the packed with 33 functional tools, from the traditional sharp blades to the reliable nail file.
As you can’t use all of the tools every day, some of them are actually very handy, especially if you like to fix things all around the house. It comes with a wire stripper, a wire cutter, and a Phillips screwdriver. It also features four flathead screwdrivers range from 2.5 mm to 6 mm in size.
Whether you are at your home or in the outdoors, you’ll surely find something special in this knife that will help you get a specific task perfectly done.
Its polished scales give this Swiss Army knife an extra level of durability and an amazingly smooth finish. Those who have been using this knife for many years had claimed their knives are still smooth and don’t have any signs of wear and tear.
The knife measures 3.6 inches, will fit easily inside your backpack. However, you’ll know that it’s there because it’s slightly heavier at 6.5 ounces, compared to the Classic and Huntsman designs.
Also, this is one of the most expensive Swiss Army knives that are available. But, if you consider it’s high-quality and the number of tools you get for this price, you will realize that it is absolutely worth every dollar.
Key Features
- This knife features a pressurized ballpoint pen, which is not available in most EDC knives.
- Some of the tools are finely attached to the handles for easy storage.
3. Victorinox Swiss Army Evolution 18 Pocket Knife
If you’re searching for the perfect beginner knife to add a new dimension to your spirit of adventure, this Swiss Army knife model is one of your ideal options. It features all necessary functional tools, including a large blade with a tip to ensure the safety of younger users.
This is one of the lightest Swiss Army knives with only 2 ounces of weight. That’s because it contains only seven components: a nail file with a nail cleaner, a locking blade, a Phillips screwdriver, a wood saw, a keyring, tweezers, and a toothpick. It may be small in size, but it’s great in its performance and structure.
That apart, the handle contains an ergonomic design with rubber material that allows precise and delicate work. It provides you great control whether you’re doing some wood carving or slicing fruits.
Key Features
- The handle is designed ergonomically for enhanced safety.
- Seven tools provide eight different functions.
- The locking system ensures safe handling, especially for the kids.
4. Victorinox Swiss Army Evolution 14, Red
If you’re searching for the perfect beginner knife to add a new dimension to your spirit of adventure, this Swiss Army knife model is one of your ideal options. It features all necessary functional tools, including a large blade with a tip to ensure the safety of younger users.
This is one of the lightest Swiss Army knives with only 2 ounces of weight. That’s because it contains only seven components: a nail file with a nail cleaner, a locking blade, a Phillips screwdriver, a wood saw, a keyring, tweezers, and a toothpick. It may be small in size, but it’s great in its performance and structure.
That apart, the handle contains an ergonomic design with rubber material that allows precise and delicate work. It provides you great control whether you’re doing some wood carving or slicing fruits.
Key Features
- The handle is designed ergonomically for enhanced safety.
- Seven tools provide eight different functions.
- The locking system ensures safe handling, especially for the kids.
5. Victorinox Swiss Army Hunter Pro Alox Pocket Knife
If you’re a person who loves to stay outside often, this is the best knife for you. Practical, Compact, and versatile. It carries a large variety of tools, including a pair of scissors, two sharp blades, and wood saw. It also gives you the cutting power you need while camping, hunting, backpacking, or fishing.
Considering all its great features, this model is also great for everyday usage. Perfect for use in both at your home or office. That aside, the cutting tools carry a bottle and also a cap opener.
This Swiss Army knife contains two screwdrivers that are a must necessary tool not just for moving the small screws, but also for other everyday applications. It also includes a corkscrew. If you fall in a situation where you have to punch holes in softwood, leather, canvas, or other materials, there is a reamer you will be able to use for the job. It makes a more perfect hole than a knife or a screwdriver.
The other tools this knife carries are toothpicks, a wire stripper, and tweezers. It also contains a multipurpose hook, which is excellent in mainly used for carrying parcels, according to many long-time users.
The knife measures 0.8 inches in thickness, weighs 3.4 ounces, and 3.6 inches in length. It sits comfortably inside your hand and in any small bag.
Key Features
- It packs all its tools in a fittable package.
- It features a keyring by which you can easily attach to your keychain or backpack.
- Its blade is made of stainless steel that is extra sturdy and can be sharpened easily.
6. Victorinox Swiss Army RangerGrip 58 Hunter Multi-Tool Pocket Knife
Similar to all the other knives in this Ranger series, the RangerGrip 58 Hunter is specially made for skilled craftsmen and primarily tested by professional users. It’s a great knife that can be used one-handedly. Thanks to the thumbhole which is perfectly located in a large locking blade. The tools include a key ring, toothpicks, tweezers, a can opener, a screwdriver, a large blade, a bottle opener, a screwdriver, a wire stripper, a wood saw, a reamer, punch, and sewing awl, and a small gutting blade.
Key Features
- This knife is comparatively smaller than other models and can easily be fitted on a keychain.
- Its blade holds the edges consistently and can be easily resharpened when it becomes dull.
- The main tools have well-placed small indentations so that you may pull them off smoothly with applying just a little pressure.
7. Victorinox Swiss Army Soldier Knife
While Victorinox Swiss Army knife is not familiar as a tactical knife or a highly advanced carry gear, it is definitely practical and functional. It is also considered as a great gift because of the utility and low price.
This multipurpose product is a great piece as a starter knife, for daily use. It is sturdy enough to last for a long time and versatile enough for everyday tasks. With nine tools, from the screwdriver to the bottle opener, this knife is considered to be the all-time favorite gift for all groomsmen.
The scales give this model an amazing look and feel. They are not just for decoration. As they are made from durable Alox material, they can last a long duration of time.
Key Features
- The textured handle provides a safe and comfortable grip.
- It is extremely lightweight with only 1.6 ounces.
- The steel blade carries an edge that sharpens extremely fast.
8. Victorinox Swiss Army Signature Lite Pocket Knife
The Victorinox Swiss Army Signature Lite is a close relative to the classic swiss army knife, with an addition of a ballpoint pen and a mini flashlight. The fob makes it easy to clip to the keyring, making the knife a convenient pick.
The Signature Lite features a bright LED Mini White Light to help you look at your way in the dark, read something, or find your keys.
Swiss Army Signature Lite Features a Retractable Ball Point Pen, an LED Mini White Light, a Small Blade, Scissors, Nail File with Screwdriver Tip, and a Key Ring.
The knife measures only 2.25 inches makes it a perfect fit in your hand.
Key Features
- The handle is designed ergonomically for enhanced safety.
- Seven tools provide eight different functions.
- The locking system ensures safe handling, especially for the kids.
9. Victorinox Swiss Army Climber Pocket Knife, Camouflage
Apart from being compact, the knife provides a perfect balance between containing all the essential tools and being lightweight at the same time.
This standard 3.5-inch long pocket knife is a multi-tool gadget. It contains 3 layers that measure a total of 0.7 inches in thickness. The handles, make it a bit larger than the Tinker but a bit smaller than the Huntsman.
This product carries many handy tools, including the bottle openers and the classic can. This knife looks similar to the Tinker but superior in features.
Key Features
- Compact design and extremely durable for outdoor adventures.
- Its spring-loaded scissors are the best in their quality.
- The handle is made from aluminum and acid-resistant plastic.
10. Victorinox Swiss Army Classic Pocket Knife (Silver Alox)
This Silver Alox Swiss Army knife is an excellent gift for those people who would either not spend money buying one. As it looks expensive, this knife is actually very affordable indeed.
The handle of the knife is equipped with Alox scales, which are built in a rust-resistant coating. They are not only durable but also aesthetically pleasing. Meaning, you can expect its handle to be retained its charming appearance for years.
Despite the small size, the stainless steel blade is extremely sharp and highly functional for small tasks, such as opening a package. Also, the saw is able to cut plants and softwood.
Same as the other products Victorinox Silver Alox is perfect for every aspect. The brand only uses the best materials and makes sure that proper inspections are performed.
Key Features
- It contains an aluminum handle that provides for a non-slip grip.
- The blade is thick and useful for all type of carving.
11. Personalized Red Climber Swiss Army Knife by Victorinox
This is the best Swiss Army knife among all the suggestions we provided in this article. If you only require the essential tools and don’t need any of the extra functionalities of the more expensive and larger model. With 7 functional tools, this product is an ideal production of Victorinox. And their commitment to performance, quality, and efficiency.
The knife features a pair of scissors, a small blade, a nail file, keyring, toothpick, a nail cleaner, and tweezers. All of these are capable of performing more than one task. Compared to the functionalities of most other models of Swiss Army knives, there is not a single tool here that you will not find useful.
This knife has an acrylic handle with a red and white Edelweiss graphic design. The design is not just for making the product exceptional, but also in honor of Switzerland’s national flower.
Key Features
- This knife is compact to fit inside a pocket or be attached to a key chain.
- It’s extremely lightweight, and perfect for traveling.
- The handle contains a beautiful image of Edelweiss flowers, which is a classical symbol of Switzerland.
12. Personalized 8-Function Multi-Tool Pocket Knife
This personalized multi-tool knife represents a perfect combination of modern technology and versatility. It holds an improved grip design for its safety usage, efficiency, and performance.
You might also want to know that this product has some tools that are quite similar to the ones of Swiss Army knife models that are designed and manufactured by Wenger. Victorinox bought Wenger company some years ago, so they are not in a competition with their former competitor.
The blade looks like a Wenger blade design than a Victorinox. It has a bigger belly compared to others, to make the length of cutting slightly longer. Let’s discuss another example which is the toothpick, sharper, yet shorter and flimsier
That apart, this knife contains the same set of features that are found on the Fieldmaster model. Except the secondary blade, this one contains a nail file.
Key Features
- The rubber design on the handle provides grip and support.
- Its scissors have serrated edges and a spring mechanism is stronger compared to the older versions.
13. Victorinox Swiss Army Camper Pocket Knife
Victorinox Swiss Army Camper Pocket Knife is specially made for camping and it can be the extra pocket knife you take with you. The compact design makes it perfect for carrying around in the camp while your bigger multitools are resting in your backpack.
The Victorinox Swiss Army Camper Pocket Knife comes with 8 tools and the special one is the heavy, long blade and the engraver. The blade is made a little burlier than some other Swiss Army Knives and is able to do long tasks. It is super sharp and is ideal for skinning, building shelters, and so on.
As well as the tools are concerned, there is also your standard tool kit for camping including a bottler and a can opener, screwdriver, and wire stripper.
Same as the other Swiss Army Knives this one also contains 100% quality stainless steel and features a lifetime guarantee.
Key Features
- Ideal for heavier outdoor activities or camp work
- Alox housing is available.
- Durable and have a lifetime warranty
14. Victorinox Swiss Army One-Hand Trekker Multi-Tool Pocket Knife
The Victorinox Swiss Army One-Hand Trekker Multi-Tool Pocket Knife is an extremely outstanding tool compared to the other camping options that have been mentioned in the review.
The first thing you have to bear in mind is the design that it contains is majestic. Beyond that, its handle is made of rugged polyamide scales that make it extremely suitable for a good grip and also super durable.
As well as the blade has 11 functions that come with this knife. One of the best tools that the product contains is a Philips screwdriver. Most of the Swiss Army knives contain a compatible flat head that will hardly work with actual Phillips.
You will also get a bottle, can openers, and wood saw. If you love outdoor activities, the One-Hand Trekker is highly recommended for you.
Key Features
- Ideal for heavier outdoor activities or camp work
- Alox housing is available.
- Durable and have a lifetime warranty
15. Victorinox Swiss Army Hiker Pocket Knife Multi-Tool – Walnut Wood
This Victorinox Swiss Army Hiker Pocket Knife Multi-Tool – Walnut Wood is another great product for any outdoorsmen. Its slim, lightweight, and compact design give you the right tool.
The Army Hiker features 13 tools. The special ones that are must be needed for the outdoors are the two blades, the Philips screwdriver, and the wood saw. There are also standard bottles and can opener.
It’s small enough to put in your pocket. Overall an excellent little outdoor pocket knife. The knife is made of stainless steel and contains a lifetime guarantee.
Key Features
- Ideal for heavier outdoor activities or camp work
- Alox housing is available.
- Durable and have a lifetime warranty
16. Bonus: Craziest Swiss Army Knife
Final Verdict
As there are a lot of knife brands with a variety of designs and the exact same level of quality, it’s very difficult to compare the ability and features among them. We just tried to present in front of you a list which might help you to get a little bit of knowledge about the features and quality of these best swiss army knives. Hope our suggestion will lead you to choose your ideal pick.
Hi, my name is Taras Kulakov and I’m a knife enthusiast. I have been collecting knives for over 30 years and I’ve owned literally thousands of different models over that time. My goal with this site is to share some of what I’ve learned about knives. You can find more info about Taras Kulakov here.
Last update on 2023-03-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Many people want to buy the best quality steels in knives . But stainless steel is usually very poor quality. Hard to sharpen, do not hold a good edge, and the more you try to sharpen them the more they fight you. And I have many types of sharpeners. Chinese steel just stinks. So just for a victorinox to be stamped “stainless steel” doesn’t seem to justify the cost of a “better quality “ knife. We need to be better informed because the study of knife metallurgy very helpful. Just my thoughts……….
100% agree with you. Which steel you recommend ??